5 Things to Do in Aruba
The best Aruba excursions and activities
Just north of Venezuela, this Dutch Caribbean island is a must-see for those seeking beautiful beaches, luxury hotel accommodations, and must-see sites and attractions that simply cannot be overlooked.
To make things easier on your end, here’s a list to get you started on your visit. Choose from these pickings and plan the perfect itinerary, or go rogue and surprise yourself with what Aruba has to offer.
1. Go Dutch! well, sort of
With a population of just over 100,000, this small nation has managed to produce one of the world’s most popular vacation spots. Why not delve into the depths of Aruba’s multicultural atmosphere—starting with its Dutch roots.
Look up the arts and culture scene in the coastal town of San Nicholas at the southernmost tip of the island and take a guided mural tour of the street art lining its walls, or visit a museum in the capital city of Oranjestad. The Archeological Museum holds valuable artifacts from the past, and the Fort Zoutman Historical Museum is the oldest building in the city. Either way, expect your share of history lessons along the way.
2. Put your pedal to the metal
Ready for an adventure? Go off-road in Aruba while mountain biking across dirt roads, cliffs, and biking trails galore, or take the high road on a hike of Hooiberg’s bushy peak that stands above Oranjestad and Santa Cruz. Then, shift gears by visiting Aruba's Palomarga Raceway Park, known to host drag racing events every month!
If you prefer getting your feet wet, Aruba has great beaches for water-related activities. Snorkeling is a must at Malmok Beach and Catalina Cove, where fish can be seen scurrying near rock formations. Wind and kite surfing is another wildly popular sport led by trained instructors who will show you the best ways to hang loose.
3. Eat your heart out
An island as culturally rich as Aruba naturally hosts some of the most diverse cuisine from all corners of the Earth. In these parts, there’s a little bit of everything for everyone!
Enjoy traditional keri keri (fish stew), Antillean-style grilled swordfish or shark, and bakiyou (cod fish) for starters by collecting local ingredients. If you fancy an outing, visit the Renaissance Marketplace in Orangestad for an unforgettable dining experience, with international food options ranging from Cuban, Mexican, Japanese and Dutch flavours. Breakfast, lunch and dinner is served!
Thinking of spending a cozy night in? There’s plenty of take-out and delivery options available in Orangestad, like the On The Rocks Café, the Delimar Peruvian Restaurant, or Kawloon’s delicious Asian fusion.
4. Surf’s up!
There’s nothing more refreshing than a dip in the water, but gliding upon waves is a close second. Take on paddle boarding for size or balance yourself atop a surfboard and cruise down ocean waves at one of Aruba’s many beaches.
When you’ve had enough of jet-skiing, parasailing and kitesurfing, embark on an underwater tour by submarine or sea trek for a deeper dive. Feel the ocean floor beneath your feet and be greeted by schools of fish and sea creatures, or visit excavation sites from old shipwrecks for a dose of underwater history.
5. Dance! Dance! Dance!
Are you ready to hit the dance floor? Aruba’s nightlife scene is among the most lively in the Caribbean. And, best of all, the dancing doesn’t stop until sunrise!
At night, there’s all sorts of things to do. Hit up Palm Beach or Oranjestad’s cocktail or beach bars for an eventful evening, visit a club and dance till you drop, or sing from the depths of your soul at a karaoke bar. But don’t forget to capture these exciting moments on the town with a few photos!
What’s next?
Looking to learn more about your next dream vacation? Find more information about Aruba here, or save more on your next sunny getaway when you book early.