The nickname for Aruba is One Happy Island and this charming Caribbean country certainly lives up to its name. A five year Happiness Index Study suggests that Aruba is the happiest island in the world, relative to its size. If you enjoy being active, there are many unique things to do in Aruba, such as snorkelling and the largest yoga centre in the Caribbean.
For those who prefer rest and relaxation, Aruba has some beautiful white sand beaches and great spas. Over 90 nationalities live in harmony here and Aruba feels very safe. This Caribbean island is perfect for a luxury getaway.
21 Unique Things to Do in Aruba
Thanks to consistently good weather, with average temperatures of 26°C, it’s easy to get out and about on this Dutch Caribbean island. Located in the Southern Caribbean Sea, Aruba is a very eco friendly island and they are taking several steps to preserve nature. Single use plastic bags have been banned and only coral reef safe sunscreen without oxybenzone is sold on the island.
Four languages are spoken in the island of Aruba: Dutch, Papiamento, English and Spanish so you won’t have any difficulty in communicating with the locals.
There are some incredible places to stay in Aruba, like the Aruba Ocean Villas which have some of the best overwater bungalows in the Caribbean.
1. Aruba Aloe Factory
Aruba Aloe vera factory and museum is a great place to find out more about this versatile plant. Aruba became the most important producer and exporter of aloe vera at the beginning of the 20th century.
The aloe vera plant is known for it’s incredible skin healing properties. For this reason it’s used widely in beauty products.
The 150 acre plantation is located in Hato and is the oldest aloe company in the world. Take a factory tour to see how the plants are processed.
Learn more about the history of aloe on Aruba via the informative video and exhibition. You can stock up on aloe skincare and suncream in the Aruba Aloe factory shop.
Aruba Aloe make a huge variety of products, sold in their boutique and online. Their skincare is organic and very effective.
2. Alto Vista Chapel
Alto Vista Chapel dates from 1952 and is built on the site of the first Catholic church on the island. Also known as Pilgrim’s Church, the chapel has a wonderful location overlooking the ocean.
The approach to the chapel is lined with stations of the cross. Aruba Peace Labyrinth is a calm place for visitors to walk around outside the chapel.
3. Aruban Architecture in Oranjestad
There are many colorful and historic buildings in downtown Oranjestad. Aruba City Hall, also known as the Eloy Arends House, dates from 1925.
The National Archaeological Museum Aruba is housed in a Dutch colonial mansion built in 1827. You will also find some cunucu houses in Oranjestad. These are traditional Aruban dwellings decorated in vibrant colors.
4. Baby Natural Bridge
In Arikok National Park, visitors can admire Baby Natural Bridge. This rock forms a natural arch that makes an ideal photo opportunity.
Next to it, you’ll see the ruins of the original Aruba Natural Bridge which collapsed due to erosion in 2005. There’s a cafe and shop next to Baby Bridge, which also has restrooms.
Baby Natural Bridge is not to be confused with the famous Baby Beach, which is a 40 minute drive away in San Nicolas.
5. Bon Bini Festival
Every Tuesday, this festival showcases the culture and history of Aruba. Visitors can experience traditional Aruban food, art, dance and music.
Bon Bini Festival takes place in Fort Zoutman. Dating from 1798, it is the oldest building in Aruba, and also the home of the Historical Museum.
6. Bushiribana Gold Mine
Did you know that Aruba was once a major producer of gold? The precious metal was discovered on the island in 1824.
Bushiribana Gold Mill was built in 1874 and Balashi Gold Smelter was constructed 25 years later. Bushiribana Ruins are the remnants the mine, located close to Frenchman’s Pass rock canyon.
7. California Lighthouse
Located near Arashi Beach on the Northwestern coast of Aruba, California Lighthouse is one of the island’s most well known landmarks. The lighthouse takes its name from the California steamer which was shipwrecked here.
You can tour the lighthouse and get 360 degree views of the surrounding area. There’s also a popular restaurant next to it, Faro Blanco.
8. Dutch Architecture
De Olde Molen is a Dutch windmill originally built in 1804. This surprising landmark was shipped to Aruba in 1961 and rebuilt on J.E. Irausquin Blvd. Diana’s Pancakes Place is next to the windmill and a good place to go for savory and sweet pancakes.
9. Eagle Beach
One of the most best beaches in Aruba, Eagle Beach stretches for 1.2 miles. This white sand beach is known for its fofoti trees, which grow directly from the sand.
Eagle Beach is also a popular spot for sea turtles to hatch. Sections of the beach have protective barriers around their nests as they are an endangered species.
10. Indian Cave Drawings
The Arawak Indians are among the earliest inhabitants of Aruba. You can see their rock drawings at Ayo Rock Formations and hike the walking trails.
Fontein Cave is another place that is renowned for its ancient Amerindian drawings on the ceiling and walls. The cave is located near Butucu on the north side of Aruba.
11. Jeep Tour to Arikok National Park
More than 20 per cent of Aruba’s land surface is composed of Arikok National Park. Arikok has many natural wonders, rare wildlife and plant species and an interesting Visitor’s Centre.
The best way to see the park is on a jeep tour. De Palm Tours is one of the most well known, and has four off-road excursions on offer.
On the Natural Pool Safari guided tour, you’ll visit hidden gems such as Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins and Alto Vista Chapel. Participants are safely strapped in – just remember to apply suncream liberally before setting out.
Be aware that the jeeps are open air so you must take all valuables with you at each stop. De Palm provide you with water and a bandana to keep the dust off, and you’ll also be treated to a pastechi snack at Baby Bridge.
12. Land Sailing
Have you ever heard of land sailing? One of the most unique things to do in Aruba, it involves sitting in a three wheeled cart equipped with a windsurfing sail. You can reach up to 3 times the speed of wind, giving quite an adrenaline rush!
Due to the reliable trade winds in Aruba, land sailing is a popular sport on the island. The best place to try it is in Malmok, which has very flat and open terrain.
13. Luxury Shopping in Oranjestad
Oranjestad is the capital of Aruba and is known for its luxury shopping. Head to Renaissance Mall for designer labels and luxury beachwear and Aruba Flea Market for good bargains.
Royal Plaza Mall is a pretty pink building with boutiques including Tommy Hilfiger and Nautica.
14. Natural Pool
Close to Dos Playa on the East Coast of the island, lies an Aruban hidden gem. The natural pool, also known as Conchi or Cura di Tortuga, is encircled by large rocks.
Access to Aruba’s natural pool is via trails rather than by road. Despite this, the pool gets very busy from early in the morning.
You descend 100 stone steps to reach the beach. The natural pool itself is around 5 meters deep and formed by volcanic rock. It’s very slippery, so wear water shoes if possible.
15. Eforea Spa
Within the Hilton Aruba Carribean Resort & Casino, Eforea Spa is an oasis of tranquility. The Asian inspired decor is very soothing.
You don’t have to be a hotel resident to book a treatment here. They do fantastic massages which will alleviate any tension.
We particularly like their Aromatherapy Massage using essential oils. There’s a steam room, sauna, plunge pool and indoor and outdoor relaxation areas.
16. Oranjestad Streetcar
Hop on board the trolley in Oranjestad, it’s one of the best things to do in town and entirely free. Sights along the way include Fort Zoutman, stores along main street and the House of Parliament.
The first trolley sets off at 10:00 am from the cruise port and the last one leaves at 5:00 pm. If you’re lucky, the driver will even let you take the controls for a quick photo.
17. Paddle Board Yoga
Aruba is a fun place in which to go paddle boarding and do water sports. For something a bit different you can even try paddle board yoga. Vela Sports Aruba is one of the best places to learn, as they have over 30 years of experience in teaching watersports. Located between the Marriott and the Ritz-Carlton, they have a shop, locker and changing rooms.
You might think that SUP yoga would be difficult for beginners. It’s actually not as hard as we’d have imagined.
The board is tethered by a rope to a pole, so that it doesn’t drift far away and the sea is quite calm. If you did fall in, the water isn’t deep so it would be easy to get back on the board.
Despite being both yoga and SUP novices, we managed to stay on the board and follow most of the instructor’s moves. She was very patient and even took some photos for us after our session.
18. San Nicolas Street Art
The second largest town in Aruba, San Nicolas was formerly known for its oil refinery. These days, the town is famous for its colorful street art.
The Art Fair Murals have been created by artists from around the world. Head to the new interactive visitor centre for a multilingual overview of the area’s street art.
There are over 40 murals in San Nicolas, some of which are optical illusions, and some conveying important messages about nature conservation. We like this vibrant Aruba: One Happy Island mural.
Next to the visitor centre, you’ll spot a statue by Gilbert Senchi of a local lady who made her fortune by selling lottery tickets and sweets.
Check out ArtisA Gallery, on Bernard van de Veen Zeppenfeldstraat, which features emerging Aruban artists. A few doors down, Cosecha Store and Creative Centre sells traditional Aruban crafts and runs art workshops.
The annual Island Festival combines art and fashion to great effect. Formerly known as Carubbian, the festival began when the oil refinery workers made makeshift steelpan drums from empty oil drums.
Try a popular Aruban snack at Saco di Felipe. Saco is a tasty selection of chicken, ribs, fried plantains, fried potatoes and a johnnycake, served in a paper bag.
San Nicolas is on what is known as the sunrise side of the island. As you can imagine, it’s a great place to experience an Aruban sunrise!
The tallest building is the San Nicolas Water Tower. This Art Deco masterpiece dates from 1939. The water tower is now home to the Museum of Industry Aruba.
19. Snorkel in Crystal Clear Water
Aruba is a popular destination for divers and a snorkelling trip is a great way to see the island’s marine life. Pelican Adventures have modern catamarans, National Geographic snorkeling equipment, life jackets and a restroom.
There’s seating in the shade if you want a break from the sun, and an open bar and snacks are provided. Just bring your bathing suit, sunblock, sunglasses, a hat and towel.
The boat makes two snorkelling stops and the crew will look out for anyone who isn’t confident in the water. The first is to the Antilla Wreck, a World War II shipwreck. The final stop is Catalina Bay, which is quite shallow but has lots of fishes to spot.
20. First Carbon Neutral Resort in the Caribbean
Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort is an adults only hotel with a prime location on Eagle Beach. The spacious bedrooms and suites all have beautiful garden or sea views.
There’s a lovely fresh water infinity pool, beach and spa. Guests can enjoy the daily HealthyHour at SandBar, dine in Beachfront Elements Restaurant or on a private palapa on the beach.
This charming Aruba hotel has won many awards for its sustainable initiatives. These include the provision of refillable water flasks in the bedrooms, using bio-degradable or environmentally friendly detergents and switching to eco-friendly paper for their marketing materials.
21. Toes in the Sand Dining at Passions on the Beach
For a truly special dinner in Aruba, head to Passions on the Beach. Located on J.E. Irausquin Blvd, this luxurious restaurant offers toes in the sand dining.
It’s part of the Amsterdam Beach Hotel, one of the most Instagrammable places in Aruba. As day turns to night, they light up torches and the atmosphere is magical.
The seafood is a must, particularly the ceviche and the oven baked grouper and lobster. A Passion Surprise for Two is a delicious trio of desserts to finish in style.
22. De Palm Island
De Palm Island, an all-inclusive private island resort located just off the northwestern coast of Aruba, is a lot of fun. Accessible only by boat or underwater shuttle, this secluded oasis offers lots of exciting things to do.
The island boasts beautiful beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and lush tropical vegetation, creating a picturesque backdrop for relaxation and rejuvenation. As part of the entrance fee, visitors can take part in human football, beach volley and a variety of water sports and activities.
You can also upgrade to try SNUBA, a mix of scuba diving and snorkelling, or Seatrek, an underwater helmet walk.
23. Baby Beach
Nestled on the southern tip of Aruba is the charming Baby Beach. With its calm, shallow waters protected by a reef, this beach is the perfect spot for families with young children.
Baby Beach offers a serene atmosphere to take a break from the busier beaches elsewhere on the island. There are no large resorts or hotels along the beach, just a few small restaurants and snack shops.
The soft white sand also makes for great sandcastle building. Its location on the eastern side means it also offers some beautiful sunset views in the evening after a day of fun in the sun.
24. Aruba Donkey Sanctuary
Founded in 1997, the Aruba Donkey Sanctuary takes in abandoned and abused donkeys and nurses them back to health. For any donation, visitors can walk along the shaded paths to visit over 100 donkeys that call the sanctuary home.
Friendly volunteers are eager to share the story of each donkey, many of which have been given cute names by their caretakers. Guests can pet and hand-feed these adorable animals as they wander past.
The sanctuary offers an intimate way to learn about the importance of donkeys to Aruba’s history and culture. With its beautiful natural setting and heartwarming mission, the Aruba Donkey Sanctuary is a memorable and moving experience for animal lovers of all ages.
Where to Eat in Aruba
Food in Aruba is a great mix of different influences, from Caribbean to Dutch and Latin American.
One of the best Aruba dishes is cool island soup, made from cantaloupe melon, lime juice, papaya, pineapple and unsweetened apricot nectar. The national dish of Aruba is keshi yena, a cheese ball stuffed with minced meat.
Here are some of the best restaurants in Aruba:
Garden Fresh Café – at J.E. Irausquin Blvd 87 is a perfect place for healthy salads and smoothies.
Craft at J.E. Irausquin Blvd 348 is a great spot for delicious cocktails and for breakfast.
Hostaria da Vittorio at L.G. Smith Blvd 380 Palm Beach, for the best Italian food in Aruba. It has a beautiful courtyard for outdoor dining.
MooMba Beach Bar – dine with your toes in the sand and enjoy the fish and meat skewers and party atmosphere.
Pelican Nest – dine on freshly caught seafood above the water on Pelican Pier. The Peruvian chef does great fish ceviches.
Screaming Eagle – one of the best restaurants in Aruba. The stylish white interior has couches as well as dining tables, giving it a real party vibe.You can also dine on the terrace and admire magnificent sunsets. The seafood here is particularly good, with locally caught mahi-mahi fish being a standout dish.
Sunset Grille Deck – Located within the Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino. Their steaks are legendary but the seafood is excellent too. As for the sunsets, they have to be seen to be believed!
Tierra del Sol – One of the best places for Sunday brunch in Aruba is Tierra del Sol. Located within the prestigious Tierra del Sol Resort & Golf, it has a very luxurious ambiance. Guests are treated to an unlimited number of small plates, together with Veuve-Cliquot champagne or mimosas. Each dish is beautifully presented and tastes as good as it looks.
Zeerover -Taste the freshest seafood at this iconic Aruban restaurant in Savaneta. The fish is served in colorful baskets and you eat with your fingers. Come early as queues build up quickly.
The West Deck – overlooking a white sand beach near Linear Park, the restaurant is known for its garlic shrimps, vegetable samosas and Margarita cocktails.
You’ll notice that we haven’t mentioned the Aruba flamingos or Renaissance Island, aka Flamingo Island. That’s because flamingos are not actually native to Aruba. At any rate, there are so many other unique things to do on Aruba that you’ll never be bored.
Practical Information for Aruba
Here are some tips to help you plan your Aruba vacation.
- US dollars are accepted throughout the island. The official currency is the Aruban florin.
- For restaurants, the dress code at dinner is semi-formal, i.e. no shorts or flip flops.
- Tap water is Aruba is known for its great taste, so there’s no need to buy bottled water.
- Bring reef friendly SPF sun block and a wind neck gaiter for outdoor activities.
How to Get to Aruba
It’s easy to get to Aruba from many countries. There are direct flights from Amsterdam Schipol, London Gatwick and many US cities.
You can also fly to Aruba from London Heathrow and 16 other UK airports via Amsterdam Schipol. Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA) is modern yet relatively compact.
How to Get Around Aruba
You can either rent a car, ATV, sand buggy or a bicycle to get around the island. If you’re intending to head to the National Park, we recommend an ATV. Taxis are another good option for getting around the main tourist areas.
Final Thoughts on Non-Touristy and Unique Things to Do in Aruba
To conclude, if you’re searching for unique experiences when visiting Aruba, the options are endless. From land sailing and paddle board yoga to ATV rentals and jeep tours, there are Aruba activities for every taste.
You can visit a national park, see Indian cave drawings or take part in a memorable boat cruise. Embrace the exotic beauty of this beautiful island while having a fantastic time!
Before planning your trip to Aruba do not forget to check out our other travel articles – they may even give you more ideas as to what is worth experiencing! With its breathtaking scenery and numerous attractions, Aruba will leave all its visitors with unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.
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Thanks to the Aruba Tourism Authority
