Things to do in Aruba

This small island, in the southern Caribbean Sea, is an idyllic holiday destination that’s known for its white sandy beaches – including the famous Eagle Beach – and tropical waters. Aruba isn’t only perfect for relaxing and sunbathing, but it’s also a paradise for watersports enthusiasts, with Snuba – a mix between snorkeling and scuba diving – being one of the most popular activities.

Read on to find out what the must-do experiences are for your holiday here, from underwater excursions to check out the marine landscapes to admiring the views from the California Lighthouse. Plus, don’t forget to soak up the sprawling scenery of Arikok National Park.

The six best activities and excursions in Aruba

1. Have fun on Palm Island

Palm Island is top-to-toe tropical, ideal for a fun-filled day out. This private island is home to a waterpark that’s stocked with slides and thrilling rides, and is known to be a popular place for snorkeling. If you’d prefer something more relaxing, you can sit back on one of the island’s beaches with a cocktail in hand. And, if that’s not enough, you might even be able to spot flocks of flamingos living on Palm Island during your stay.

2. Book a catamaran or underwater tour

Underwater excursions are among the most popular in Aruba, offering a unique opportunity to get a good look at marine life, see spectacular reefs – like the one at Barcadera – and view the remains of ancient shipwrecks, like the Antilla. Catamaran rides are also highly recommended experiences, and a lot of them make stops for swimming and snorkeling. And, if you’re looking for something more romantic, sunset excursions won’t disappoint.

3. Discover Oranjestad and San Nicolas

Explore two of the main cities in Aruba. In Oranjestad, the capital, you’ll be able to photograph the colorful, Dutch-style houses that reflect the island’s colonial past, go shopping on Main Street and visit historical attractions – such as Fort Zoutman, the oldest building on the island. If you’re an art lover, head to San Nicolas, a popular coastal city which has become a street art hotspot in recent years.

4. Explore Arikok National Park

Arikok National Park covers around 20% of Aruba and is, without a doubt, a must-see for adventure seekers. This protected area is home to a huge variety of landscapes, from rugged hills and cactus forests to eroded limestone formations and naturally formed pools. Among the park’s major attractions are the caves, which feature colorful cave paintings – Fontein Cave is a great place to visit if this sort of stuff takes your fancy.

5. Dare to try new watersports

Aruba's a paradise for watersports enthusiasts. Whether you're an expert or just starting out, there's something for everyone, from windsurfing and kitesurfing to paddle-boarding and parasailing. But one of Aruba's most popular sports is undoubtedly Snuba – a combination of snorkeling and scuba diving.

6. Take in the views from California Lighthouse

The California Lighthouse is named after a steamboat which sunk in the nearby waters in 1891. Located on the north-west tip of the island, the lighthouse has become a symbol of Aruba, and loads of tourists come here to soak up the panoramic views of the surrounding area. It’s also one of the best places to watch the sunset, as the sun dips behind the Caribbean Sea.