7 Things To Do In Aruba

Landmarks and Monuments Entertainment and Culture Parks and Nature Waterfront Activities Adventure and Sports Religious and Spiritual Sites

Discover the California Lighthouse
Visit Eagle Beach

Explore Arikok National Park
Visit the Alto Vista Chapel

Go kite surfing
Walk around Oranjestad

Relax on Palm Beach

Landmarks and Monuments

1. Discover the California Lighthouse

Discover the California Lighthouse: A Beacon of Aruba's Coastal Beauty - Deposit Photos

Perched gracefully on the northernmost tip of Aruba, the California Lighthouse stands as a timeless beacon, guiding sailors and enchanting visitors for over a century. Named after the S.S. California, which tragically sank off the coast in the early 20th century, this iconic structure is not just a monument to maritime history but also a key attraction for those exploring the enchanting landscapes of the Caribbean island. With its whitewashed façade gleaming under the tropical sun, the lighthouse offers not only a journey into the past but also some of the most breathtaking views imaginable.

For travelers making their way to the California Lighthouse, the journey is as mesmerizing as the destination itself. Winding roads adorned with the vibrant hues of local flora lead eager explorers towards the promise of panoramic vistas. The surrounding area, known for its rugged beauty, features cacti-strewn landscapes and the ever-present azure backdrop of the Caribbean Sea. Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by the charming Italian restaurant located at the lighthouse’s base, offering a tantalizing opportunity to indulge in fine dining with an unparalleled view.

Ascending the lighthouse is an experience to cherish. The inner spiral staircase winds tightly to the top, where adventurers are rewarded with sweeping views of Aruba’s coastline and the sparkling Caribbean beyond. From this lofty perch, one can witness the dramatic contrast between the calm waters of the west coast and the more tumultuous eastern shores, where waves crash against cliffs...

Parks and Nature

2. Explore Arikok National Park

Explore Arikok National Park: Discover Aruba's Natural Wonders - Deposit Photos

Nestled on the northeastern tip of Aruba, Arikok National Park is a sanctuary of natural beauty and historical significance, embodying the heart and soul of this island paradise. While Aruba is often praised for its stunning beaches and vibrant tourist centers, Arikok offers a radically different experience – a captivating exploration into the wild, untamed landscapes that tell a story older than the island's famed resorts and shopping districts. As a travel writer with a penchant for uncovering the world's hidden gems, I find Arikok National Park to be a spellbinding testament to the natural world's enduring appeal.

The park covers roughly 20% of Aruba's land area, comprising a varied topography of rugged terrains, unique wildlife, and pristine beaches, untouched by the commercial fingers that have shaped much of the island. It invites adventurers to traverse its hiking trails, which wind through cacti-studded deserts, secluded coves, and past remnants of the island's Amerindian heritage. Among these paths, visitors will find the Fontein Cave, a natural wonder adorned with ancient pictographs left by the Arawak people, and the Boca Prins, a breathtaking beach flanked by towering sand dunes and limestone cliffs, offering a solitude rarely found in the more bustling parts of Aruba.

The biodiversity within the park is nothing short of remarkable. Arikok is home to a plethora of creatures and plants that have adapted to thrive in its harsh, arid environment. Among the notable species are the Aruban burrowing owl (Shoco) and the Aruban rattlesnake, both...

Waterfront Activities

3. Visit Eagle Beach

Visit Eagle Beach: Discover Aruba's Best White Sand and Clear Waters - Deposit Photos

Nestled in the heart of Aruba's stunning coastal landscape, Eagle Beach presents an idyllic escape for travelers seeking solace in the lap of nature without straying too far from the creature comforts of upscale resorts. Known for its pristine white sands stretching out into the horizon and its crystal-clear turquoise waters, it's no wonder why this beach is often ranked among the best in the world. An experience at Eagle Beach is not just about basking under the warm Aruban sun; it's a multifaceted adventure that caters to a wide array of interests.

The beach's shallow waters and gentle waves make it a perfect spot for families with children or for those who prefer a more subdued swimming experience. Water sports enthusiasts find Eagle Beach particularly appealing, with opportunities for kite surfing, paddleboarding, and snorkeling to explore the vibrant marine life. The beach's broad expanse ensures there's always a quiet spot to lay your towel, making it feel like a personal paradise even on the busiest days.

A distinguishing feature of Eagle Beach is its famous Divi-Divi trees, twisted and shaped by the trade winds, becoming natural works of art that are as much a part of the landscape as the sand and sea. These iconic trees provide not only unique photo opportunities but also pockets of shade for those wanting to take a break from the sun. As a testament to the beach's unspoilt beauty, it serves as a nesting ground for four species...

4. Relax on Palm Beach

Scenic view of the beautiful Palm Beach shoreline at sunset - Deposit Photos

Imagine a place where the golden sun warms your skin, the soft, powdery sand filters through your toes, and the rhythmic sound of waves serenades your ears as they softly kiss the shore. Welcome to Palm Beach, a slice of paradise where relaxation and luxury meet the tranquil beauty of nature. This stunning destination, nestled along the coast, offers an escape into a world of serene bliss and unhurried leisure, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking to unwind and indulge in life's finer pleasures.

Palm Beach is not just a location; it's an experience. As you stroll along its shores, you're greeted by the iconic line of swaying palm trees that give the beach its name, creating an emblematic vista that remains etched in the memory. The beach itself extends for miles, offering a spacious haven for visitors to find their perfect spot under the sun. Whether you're looking to engage in a leisurely day of sunbathing, take a dip in the azure waters, or explore the coral reefs teeming with marine life through snorkeling or diving, Palm Beach offers a diverse palette of activities to suit any preference.

Aside from its natural allure, Palm Beach is renowned for its luxurious accommodations and high-end amenities. The area boasts a variety of opulent resorts and boutique hotels, each offering a unique blend of comfort and elegance. From rooms with breathtaking ocean views to exquisite dining experiences that feature fresh, local cuisine, your stay in...

Entertainment and Culture

5. Walk around Oranjestad

Walk Around Oranjestad: Explore Aruba's Capital and Cultural Heart - Deposit Photos

A walk around Oranjestad, the vibrant capital of Aruba, is akin to stepping onto a brilliantly painted canvas that celebrates both the past and the present. This charming city, nestled against the backdrop of the Caribbean Sea, is a kaleidoscope of colors, cultures, and architectural marvels, making it a paradise for travel enthusiasts and a dream come true for those yearning to immerse themselves in a rich historical tapestry woven with the threads of several civilizations.

Start your journey at the heart of Oranjestad, where the remnants of Dutch colonial architecture stand in harmonious contrast against the bright Caribbean hues that define many of the city's buildings. The iconic Royal Plaza is a must-visit, a bustling hub of activity that offers a unique blend of shopping, dining, and historical insights. Here, amidst the quaint shops selling local crafts and international brands, the essence of Aruba's heritage and its forward-looking spirit are palpable.

No exploration of Oranjestad would be complete without marveling at the majestic Fort Zoutman. Built in the 18th century, this historical fortress now hosts the Aruba Historical Museum, providing a glimpse into the island's vibrant past. The fort's iconic Willem III Tower, with its striking clock, acts not only as a beacon for the city but also as an invitation to delve deeper into the stories and legends that have shaped this enchanting island.

As you meander through the streets, the blend of scents from local eateries invites you to indulge...

Adventure and Sports

6. Go kite surfing

Go Kite Surfing: Experience Thrills on Aruba's Windswept Shores - Deposit Photos

Travelers seeking an infusion of adrenaline into their wanderlust need look no further than the exhilarating sport of kite surfing. This blend of wakeboarding, windsurfing, surfing, paragliding, and gymnastics into one action-packed activity offers not just a thrilling ride, but a unique way to connect with nature’s elemental forces. Among the myriad of activities that globetrotters pursue, kite surfing stands out for its ability to harness the wind and waves, offering an unparalleled sense of freedom and achievement.

For those new to the sport, the premise of kite surfing is simple yet awe-inspiring. A kite surfer stands on a board with foot straps or bindings, using the power of a large controllable kite to be propelled across the water. This surface water sport combines aspects of several other popular sports, but what makes it truly unique is the relationship between the kiter and the natural elements. Mastery over the kite and understanding the wind directions can turn an ordinary day at the beach into an extraordinary display of skill and finesse. The learning curve varies, but with dedicated instruction and a willingness to embrace the unexpected, beginners can quickly find themselves gliding across the water, chasing the horizon.

The ideal locations for kite surfing are those that offer consistent winds, spacious beaches, and crystal-clear waters. Places like Maui in Hawaii, Tarifa in Spain, and Cabarete in the Dominican Republic top the list of kite surfing hotspots around the globe. Each location brings its own...

Religious and Spiritual Sites

7. Visit the Alto Vista Chapel

Visit the Alto Vista Chapel: A Spiritual Landmark in Aruba - Deposit Photos

Nestled on the arid, windswept plains of Aruba's north coast, the Alto Vista Chapel stands as a beacon of tranquility and spiritual rejuvenation. This modest yellow chapel, also known as "Pilgrims Church," is not only a site of historical significance but also a destination that offers visitors an unparalleled sense of peace amidst its stark, beautiful surroundings. A trip to the Alto Vista Chapel is a journey into the heart of Aruba's spiritual heritage, inviting travelers to explore the deeper narratives that have shaped this island's identity.

The origins of the Alto Vista Chapel date back to 1750, making it the first Catholic church established in Aruba. Although the original structure no longer stands, the current chapel, rebuilt in 1952, preserves the spirit and simplicity of its predecessor. The journey to the chapel is an experience in itself, with a winding, cactus-lined road leading up to the site, known as "The Road of Aloe." This path not only connects visitors to the physical location but also serves as a metaphorical passage, preparing their hearts and minds for a serene encounter.

Upon arrival, the chapel's modest architecture and the stark contrast of its bright facade against the blue sky create a picturesque setting. It's open to the public daily, welcoming individuals from all walks of life to enjoy its serene environment or attend the weekly Tuesday evening mass, which has become a cherished tradition among locals and tourists alike. The surrounding landscape, characterized by its rugged terrain and...