Planning a trip to Aruba and curious about the must-see places? Aruba is a charming island in the Caribbean and part of the Netherlands. Known for its calm, beautiful beaches lined with palm trees, it’s a popular destination for travelers. Those stunning photos of tropical beaches with pink flamingos? Yep, that’s Aruba. But there’s more to this island than just its beaches. Here’s our list of top things to do in Aruba for some travel inspiration!
Aruba boasts stunning white sandy beaches that are a must-visit. Here are some of our favorite beaches on the island:
Oranjestad, the capital and largest city of Aruba, is a delightful town famous for its vibrant Dutch colonial architecture. Many old buildings have been beautifully restored, making them a hit with tourists. One notable landmark is Fort Zoutman. Built in 1798 by African slaves, it’s the oldest structure in Aruba and part of UNESCO’s “Places of Memory of the Slave Route in the Latin Caribbean.”
Arikok National Park covers about 18% of Aruba and features diverse landscapes like rugged coastlines, hills, caves, and natural pools. It’s one of the best spots to explore on the island. Here are some highlights of Arikok National Park:
Ayo Rocks are fascinating rock formations with ancient carvings. These monolithic boulders have unique shapes that resemble various animals and birds. The Arawak people, the island’s earliest settlers, created the petroglyphs found here. Nearby, about 3 km away, is the Casibari Rock Formation, known for its peculiar shape and prehistoric rock drawings.
Renaissance Island is a private resort island home to the Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino, Flamingo Beach, and Iguana Beach. Flamingo Beach is renowned globally for its charming pink flamingos, while Iguana Beach, as the name suggests, is home to iguanas. Off the shore, about 50 meters away, there’s a dive site where two airplanes were sunk intentionally to create a unique underwater experience. You can visit this private island either by staying at the Renaissance Aruba Resort or purchasing a day pass for around 125 USD.
Hooiberg is a volcanic formation that looks like a haystack, hence its Dutch name, which means “haystack.” Located in the heart of Aruba, the mountain stands 165 meters tall. Climb its 662 steps to be rewarded with panoramic views of the island. On a clear day, you might even see Venezuela from the top.
The Donkey Sanctuary is a rescue center for injured or abandoned wild donkeys. Housing around 100 donkeys once used for transportation, the sanctuary offers tours and information about donkey care. Visitors can feed and interact with these gentle animals, making it an excellent spot to visit with kids.
Enjoy your trip and make the most of what Aruba has to offer!