Top 10 Things to Do in Aruba

Aruba is a small island in the Caribbean that has a lot to offer for travelers of all kinds and tastes. Whether you want to chill on the beach, explore nature, learn about the culture, or party all night, Aruba has something for you. Here are some of the best things to do in Aruba that will make your trip memorable.

Eagle Beach

What is it?
Eagle Beach Aruba is a beach located on the southwestern coast of Aruba, a Caribbean island. One of the island's most popular beaches is known for its wide and soft white sand, its clear and calm water, and its iconic fofoti trees that lean towards the sea.

Why should you go?
If you are looking for a beach that combines natural beauty, tranquility, and convenience, you should go to Eagle Beach in Aruba. Eagle Beach is one of the most beautiful and spacious beaches in the Caribbean, with white sand and clear water. You can also see the famous fofoti trees that bend towards the sea, creating a stunning contrast with the blue sky.

Eagle Beach is not only a feast for the eyes but also for the soul. You can relax under the shade of a beach hut, swim in the calm water, or enjoy a variety of water sports, making Eagle Beach one of the most fun things to do in Aruba. The area is also close to many hotels, restaurants, bars, and shops, so you can easily find everything you need. Eagle Beach is a beach that has it all: beauty, peace, and convenience.

Palm Beach

What is it?
Another stunning beach with calm and turquoise water, ideal for swimming and relaxing. You can also find many hotels, restaurants, bars, and shops along the shore.

Why should you go?
Palm Beach is one of the most popular and lively beaches in the Caribbean, with a long stretch of white sand and calm water. You can also enjoy a variety of water sports, such as parasailing, jet skiing, kayaking, and snorkeling. Palm Beach is not only a paradise for water lovers but also a great place to watch the sunset or experience Aruba's nightlife.

Arikok National Park

What is it?
A natural reserve that covers almost 20% of the island, with diverse landscapes, wildlife, and cultural heritage. You can explore the park by hiking, biking, horseback riding, or driving.

Why should you go?
Arikok National Park is a place where you can experience the natural and cultural heritage of Aruba, an island with a rich and diverse history. You can go on an adventure and explore the volcanic hills, the limestone rocks, the dry riverbeds, the sand dunes, and the stunning coastline. Arikok National Park is home to many species of flora and fauna, some of which are endemic or endangered. You can spot birds, reptiles, mammals, and insects, as well as cacti, orchids, and other plants.

The park is also a place where you can learn about Aruba's past and culture. Marvel at the rock paintings left by the Caquetío Indians, the old plantation sites that tell the story of an agricultural past, and the adobe houses that show the traditional building techniques.

Natural Pool

What is it?
The natural pool, also known as Conchi, is a tranquil pool formed by a rock formation of volcanic stone that circles a slight depression. It is located inside Arikok National Park on the windswept eastern coast of Aruba.

Why should you go?
To connect with nature and have fun on a unique adventure. You can reach the natural pool by hiking, horseback riding, 4x4 vehicle, or on a guided tour — but the journey is worth it, as you can enjoy the scenic views along the way. The natural pool is a great place to swim and snorkel, as the water is clear and calm, protected from the rough surf by the rocks. You can also see various marine life, such as fish, turtles, and crabs.

California Lighthouse

What is it?
A historic landmark that offers panoramic views of the island and the sea. The lighthouse was constructed in 1916 to avoid shipwrecks like the one that occurred to the S.S. California, a British steamship that went down in 1891.

Why should you go?
California Lighthouse is a place to go if you want to see a breathtaking view of the island and the sea. This is the highest structure in Aruba, and it sits on a limestone plateau at Hudishibana, near Arashi Beach and Sasariwichi dunes on the northwestern tip of Aruba. You can go to the top of the lighthouse and marvel at the panoramic view of the island's shoreline and the Caribbean Sea. You can also stop by the nearby restaurant, La Trattoria el Faro Blanco, for a tasty meal or a cool drink. California Lighthouse is a wonderful place to appreciate the beauty and history of Aruba.

National Archaeological Museum of Aruba

What is it?
A museum that showcases the history and culture of the indigenous people of Aruba from prehistoric times to the colonial era. This is a small but fascinating museum that shows the evolution of the island from 2500 BCE to the 19th century.

Why should you go?
The National Archaeological Museum of Aruba is a must-see for anyone who wants to know more about the country's history and culture. You can admire a collection of intriguing artifacts, such as pottery, tools, jewelry, and even a skeleton thousands of years old. You can also find out about the different groups of people who lived in Aruba, such as the Caquetio Indians, the Spanish colonizers, the Dutch settlers, and the African enslaved people.

The museum is situated in a renovated historical building in Oranjestad, the capital city of Aruba. You can enter the museum for free and enjoy a guided tour or an audio guide. The National Archaeological Museum is a wonderful place to explore the rich heritage of Aruba and its people.

Stellaris Casino

What is it?
A popular spot for gambling and entertainment located at the Marriott Resort. This is the biggest casino on the island and one of the few that are open 24 hours.

Why should you go?
Stellaris Casino in Aruba is the place to go if you want to have some fun and test your luck. You can play a variety of games, such as craps, roulette, blackjack, poker, and more, with the highest stakes on the island. You can also spin slot machines featuring the world-famous Wheel of Fortune. Stellaris Casino is situated at the Aruba Marriott Resort, a gorgeous hotel with spacious rooms, a spa, a pool, and several restaurants. You can also enjoy live entertainment at the lobby bar or order room service. Stellaris Casino is a top-notch gaming destination and definitely one of the fun things to do in Aruba for adults.

Aruba Donkey Sanctuary

What is it?
A unique experience where you can interact with over 130 rescued donkeys at a non-profit sanctuary.

Why should you go?
If you love animals and want to support a good cause, you should go to Aruba Donkey Sanctuary. You can feed and pet the donkeys from the safety of their enclosed porch. They especially love apples and carrots, so feel free to bring some along. You can also cuddle and hug one of their friendly donkeys for a donation and relieve your stress while in Aruba.

The sanctuary also has a cozy visitor center, a gift shop, and a snack bar. You can learn more about the history and culture of Aruba through the donkeys, which have been on the island for 500 years. Aruba Donkey Sanctuary is a fun and educational experience for the whole family.

Oranjestad

What is it?
The capital and largest city of Aruba, with colorful architecture and museums.

Why should you go?
One of the best things to do in Aruba is to visit Oranjestad, the capital and largest city of the island. Oranjestad is a unique blend of old and new that lends a distinctive charm to Aruba's capital. You can discover the Dutch colonial architecture, the colorful buildings, the historical sites, and the museums that showcase the island's culture and history. You can also enjoy a variety of activities in Aruba, such as shopping, dining, entertainment, casinos, golf, and a butterfly farm. Oranjestad is also a popular destination for festivals, such as Carnival, Soul Beach Music Festival, and Aruba Art Fair. Whether you want to explore, relax, or have fun, Oranjestad has something for everyone.

Mangel Halto Reef

What is it?
Mangel Halto Reef is a coral reef located in Pos Chiquito, on the southwestern coast of Aruba, perfect for snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and paddle boarding.

Why should you go?
Mangel Halto Reef is the ultimate snorkeling spot in Aruba, where you can discover a fantastic coral reef with crystal-clear water. The reef has two channels that lead to the open ocean, where you can encounter colorful fish, such as parrot fish, sergeant majors, yellowtail snapper, and blue tangs. Besides snorkeling, you can also relax on the secluded beach, explore the mangroves, and admire the stunning sunset views at Mangel Halto. Mangel Halto Reef is a perfect destination for advanced snorkelers who want to experience the beauty and diversity of Aruba's marine life.