"Exploring the Happy Island: 25 Must-Do Activities in Aruba"
Aruba, fondly known as “One Happy Island,” is a vibrant and sun-soaked paradise in the southern Caribbean Sea. With its stunning white-sand beaches, rich cultural heritage, delectable cuisine, and lively nightlife, Aruba promises a myriad of experiences to satisfy every traveler. From exploring the depths of Mangel Halto, a world-renowned diving spot, to experiencing a slice of the island’s history through the ancient Indian drawings in Guadirikiri Cave, the opportunities for adventure are endless. Bask in the bliss of Eagle Beach, regularly ranked among the world’s best beaches, or find peace among the fluttering wings in the Butterfly Farm. Embark on a gastronomical journey with the local cuisine at Zeerovers, or try your luck at the Stellaris Casino, the largest casino on the island. Every experience, every encounter, and every corner of this happy island offers something to explore, learn, and enjoy. Here are 25 must-do activities that promise a memorable vacation in the heart of the Caribbean – Aruba.
Watch Videos Of Fun In Aruba:
25 Fun Things To Do On Aruba Island:
1. Explore Arikok National Park Experience the unique fauna, flora, and stunning landscapes of Arikok National Park, which covers almost 20% of the island. There are well-marked trails that lead you to amazing viewpoints and hidden coves.
2. Dive at Mangel Halto Mangel Halto is a spectacular diving spot with stunning marine life. The spot offers both shallow and deep dives, perfect for beginners and seasoned divers alike.
3. Visit the California Lighthouse Located at the northern tip of the island, the California Lighthouse offers panoramic views of the surrounding sea and sand dunes. You can also enjoy a romantic dinner at the nearby restaurant, Faro Blanco.
4. Bask on Eagle Beach Frequently rated as one of the best beaches in the world, Eagle Beach offers soft white sand and crystal clear turquoise waters. It’s the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun.
5. Discover Oranjestad Stroll around the colorful and historic capital city, Oranjestad. The city offers plenty of shopping options, dining experiences, and historical buildings to explore.
6. Shop at Renaissance Mall Indulge in luxury shopping at the Renaissance Mall, where you’ll find high-end brands and a variety of dining options. The mall is conveniently located in the heart of Oranjestad.
7. Explore Guadirikiri Cave Filled with Indian drawings, the Guadirikiri Cave offers a glimpse into Aruba’s indigenous past. The cave has two chambers, each lit by sunlight streaming through holes in the ceiling.
8. Visit the Butterfly Farm Get up close and personal with a variety of butterfly species at the Butterfly Farm. This tropical garden offers guided tours that are both entertaining and educational.
9. Try Windsurfing Aruba’s steady trade winds make it an ideal place for windsurfing. Numerous rental and teaching facilities along the beach offer equipment and classes for all experience levels.
10. Take a Submarine Tour Dive deep into the Caribbean Sea without getting wet on a submarine tour. Marvel at the colorful coral reefs and the exotic marine life from the comfort of your seat.
11. Visit the Donkey Sanctuary Visit the Donkey Sanctuary to meet and learn about these friendly animals. The sanctuary provides a home for donkeys that have been injured or abandoned.
12. Relax at Spa del Sol Treat yourself to a relaxing day at Spa del Sol, a beautiful beachside spa offering a variety of treatments. The spa features private cabanas and an outdoor jacuzzi overlooking the ocean.
13. Enjoy Local Cuisine at Zeerovers At Zeerovers, you can enjoy fresh seafood caught daily by local fishermen. This seaside eatery offers a truly authentic Aruban dining experience.
14. Hike the Hooiberg Climb the 561 steps to the top of Hooiberg, the second highest point on the island. From the top, you can enjoy panoramic views of the entire island.
15. Discover the Antilla Shipwreck Snorkel or dive to explore the Antilla, one of the largest shipwrecks in the Caribbean. The ship was sunk during World War II and is now a popular spot for marine life.
16. Visit the Aruba Aloe Factory Tour the Aruba Aloe Factory to learn about the island’s aloe vera production. You can see the whole process from cultivation to the final product, and even purchase some to take home.
17. Explore San Nicolas Known as the Sunrise City, San Nicolas is a vibrant cultural hub. The city is known for its colorful street art, Caribbean music, and the famous Charlie’s Bar.
18. Enjoy a Sunset Sail Take a romantic sunset sail around the island. These cruises often include dinner and drinks, making for a magical evening on the water.
19. Play at Stellaris Casino Try your luck at Stellaris Casino, the largest casino on the island. The casino offers a variety of games including slot machines, poker, and blackjack.
20. Visit the Aruba Ostrich Farm At the Aruba Ostrich Farm, you can feed and interact with these fascinating birds. The farm offers guided tours providing insight into the life of an ostrich.
21. Take a UTV Adventure Explore the wild side of Aruba on a UTV (Utility Task Vehicle) adventure. You can navigate through rugged terrains and reach hidden gems that are inaccessible by car.
22. Visit Philip’s Animal Garden Philip’s Animal Garden is a sanctuary for rescued exotic animals. You can interact with a variety of animals and learn about their care and conservation.
23. Explore the Natural Pool Enjoy a refreshing dip in the Natural Pool, also known as “Conchi”. This unique pool is surrounded by volcanic rocks, protecting it from the rough sea waves.
24. Try Local Rum at the Palmera Rum Factory Take a tour of the Palmera Rum Factory and learn about the production of the local rum. Don’t forget to sample some of their delicious products!
25. Go Horseback Riding Experience Aruba’s countryside on horseback. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced rider, horseback riding is a fun and unique way to explore the island.
See A Map Of Where Aruba Island Is Located:
Aruba, often referred to as “One Happy Island”, is nestled in the southern part of the Caribbean Sea, positioned just about 15 miles north of the coast of Venezuela. It is part of the Lesser Antilles, a group of islands that form the eastern boundary of the Caribbean Sea. As one of the three “ABC” islands, it’s a member of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, along with Bonaire and Curaçao. Despite being closer to South America, its cultural influences, infrastructure, and governance align more with the European Dutch. Given its strategic location outside the hurricane belt, Aruba promises year-round sunshine and a stable, warm climate, making it an ideal destination for tourists seeking a sun-soaked Caribbean vacation. It’s easily accessible by air, with direct flights from many major cities in the United States, Canada, and Europe, as well as by sea, being a popular stop for numerous cruise lines.
