The Top 10 Things to Do in Aruba
- Dominique Coleman
- Oct 19, 2024
- 3 min read
The ABC islands, Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao, have been on my travel bucket list for quite some time. When I saw a JetBlue flight deal to Aruba, I jumped on it and didn’t think twice. Like Bonaire and Curacao, Aruba is a year-round destination, known for its beautiful white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and colorful Dutch architecture. While Aruba is the smallest of the ABC islands, there’s plenty to see and do. Here are 10 things to add to your Aruba itinerary.
1. Visit Eagle Beach
Voted one of the best beaches in the world, Eagle Beach is home to Aruba’s iconic fotofi trees and is well known for its soft white sand and calm waters. Snorkeling, jet skiing, and boat tours are popular activities. If you're traveling between March and September, you may also find turtles on the shore.
2. Explore Arikok National Park
Arikok National Park, on the island's east coast, accounts for about 20% of the island. Quadirikiri Cave, Fontein Cave, Conchi Natural Pool, and Natural Baby Bridge are all must-see stops when visiting the park.
3. Visit the Donkey Sanctuary
Donkeys once relied on for personal transportation and for the transportation of goods, have been on the island since the 1500s. Today there is a small population of wild donkeys, and the Donkey Sanctuary is dedicated to providing them with safe haven. Visitors can enter for free, although donations are encouraged. For a couple of dollars, you can purchase food and feed the donkeys.
4. Explore the capital city Oranjestad
Oranjestad, situated on the south coast of the island, is a hot spot on the island. Here you'll find luxury retailers, boutiques, jewelry stores, plenty of restaurants, and nightlife.
5. Tour the Aruba Aloe Factory Museum and Store
Aruba Aloe is the oldest aloe company in the world and once one of the largest exporters of the aloe plant in the world. During the free 25-minute tour, you will see first-hand how the aloe plant, with its medicinal properties, transforms into various skincare products, including soaps, lotions, and gels.
6. Visit the Butterfly Farm
Walking through Aruba’s Butterfly Farm is a truly remarkable experience. You get the chance to encounter hundreds of tropical butterflies from all over the world. The entrance fee includes a guided tour of the farm and guides step through the full life cycle of butterflies and their natural habits.
7. Explore some of the best sight-seeing spots on an off-road UTV tour
Several UTV tour operators on the island offer tours to some of the island's top attractions. I opted for the UTV & Jeep Natural Pool Combination tour with De Palm Tours. It’s a full-day tour with stops at the Conchi Natural Pool, California Lighthouse, and Baby Natural Bridge.
8. Check out the art murals in San Nicolas
San Nicolas, considered the cultural capital of Aruba, is located about 30 minutes from Oranjestad. Within a few blocks, you'll encounter tons of street art murals by artists from all over the world.
9. See the flamingos on Renaissance Island or De Palm Island
One of the most popular things to do when visiting Aruba is to see the flamingos at Flamingo Beach on Renaissance Island or De Palm Island. Guests of the Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort have exclusive access to the island via water taxi. If you’re not staying at the resort, they offer a limited amount of day passes for $125. De Palm Island is a great alternative, with plenty of activities and amenities, including a water park and an open bar for just $129.
10. Climb to the top of California Lighthouse
Climb to the top of the California Lighthouse for a 360-degree view of the island.
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