If you're wondering what to do in Aruba, picture turquoise water lapping at white-sand beaches, cactus-covered hills rolling through the island’s interior and Dutch Caribbean towns bursting with color and flavor. This southern Caribbean island offers something for every explorer, from underwater shipwrecks to rugged desert trails and lively plazas to hidden natural pools. Whether you’re coming for the sunshine, the snorkeling or the stories, here are the best things to do in Aruba.
1. Snorkel the Antilla Shipwreck
If there’s one must-do experience in Aruba, it’s snorkeling at the Antilla Shipwreck. This 400-foot German freighter sank in 1940 and now rests just beneath the surface, encrusted with coral and teeming with marine life. Schools of angelfish and snapper weave between the portholes, while sea fans sway with the current. The visibility here is excellent, and many tours stop at the wreck as part of a half-day cruise along the island’s northwestern coast.
2. Relax on Baby Beach
Located on Aruba’s quieter southern coast, Baby Beach offers shallow, calm water that’s perfect for swimming and floating. The soft curve of the bay creates a natural lagoon protected from waves, and the beach is wide and spacious with plenty of room to stretch out. It's a favorite for families, but its peaceful setting makes it ideal for anyone looking to unplug.
3. Explore Oranjestad’s Colorful Downtown
Aruba’s capital, Oranjestad, blends colonial charm with modern flair. Wander the downtown area on foot to admire the pastel-hued buildings, Dutch gables and palm-lined streets. You’ll find open-air markets, upscale shops, art galleries and street food vendors serving local favorites. A short walking tour gives you a taste of the island’s rich history and architecture, especially along Fort Zoutman and the Aruba Historical Museum.
4. Visit Arikok National Park
Covering nearly 20 percent of the island, Arikok National Park protects Aruba’s most wild and remote terrain. Hike among volcanic rock formations, desert plains and limestone cliffs. Explore caves filled with ancient petroglyphs or trek to the Conchi Natural Pool, a dramatic swimming hole formed by volcanic rock. Wildlife lovers might spot iguanas, owls or the Aruban whiptail lizard, which is unique to the island.
5. Spend a Day at Eagle Beach
Consistently ranked one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Eagle Beach offers powder-soft white sand and crystal-clear turquoise water. It’s less crowded than nearby Palm Beach, and more serene, with gentle waves and ample space. Bring a towel, a good book and let the hours drift by beneath a signature divi-divi tree. Eagle Beach is also a nesting site for sea turtles during certain months.
6. Take a Sunset Cruise
One of the most romantic things to do in Aruba is take a sunset cruise. Catamarans and wooden sailing ships depart from Palm Beach or Oranjestad, gliding along the coastline just as the sun dips below the horizon. The views are spectacular, especially with a tropical drink in hand. Many tours include appetizers, open bar service and lively Caribbean music.
7. Go Off-Road to the California Lighthouse
Set on a bluff at Aruba’s northwestern tip, the California Lighthouse is a favorite stop on Jeep and ATV tours. The lighthouse itself is a historic structure, but the real magic is in the sweeping views of sand dunes, rocky cliffs and ocean beyond. From here, the terrain becomes rugged and wild — a perfect place to experience the island’s natural contrast to its pristine beaches.
8. Tour the Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins
In the 1800s, Aruba had a short-lived gold rush, and the Bushiribana ruins are a haunting reminder of that era. Located on the wind-battered northern shore, these stone remains once processed gold ore hauled in from nearby mines. Visitors can walk through the ruins, climb up the weathered walls and enjoy panoramic coastal views. It’s a great place for photos and a glimpse into Aruba’s mining past.
9. Visit the Baby Natural Bridge
Though the original Natural Bridge collapsed in 2005, the Baby Natural Bridge remains a popular coastal stop. Carved by crashing waves over centuries, this smaller arch still impresses with its natural beauty and oceanfront setting. It’s often paired with visits to the gold mill ruins or included in half-day island tours.
10. Take a Submarine or Semi-Submarine Ride
Looking for a way to discover Aruba’s reefs without snorkeling? The Atlantis Submarine takes guests 130 feet below the surface to explore coral gardens and marine life in comfort. For something closer to shore, a semi-submarine tour lets you stay dry while observing the underwater world through large viewing windows. Both are great options for families or non-swimmers who still want to experience Aruba’s aquatic side.
11. Sample Aruban Cuisine
Aruba’s culinary influences range from Dutch and Spanish to African and Caribbean. Join a local food tour or visit a traditional restaurant to try dishes like keshi yena (cheese-stuffed meat), fresh-caught snapper or goat stew. Street foods like pastechi and pan bati are great on-the-go bites. If you’re visiting on a Thursday, head to the Carubbian Festival in San Nicolas for food stalls, music and dancing.
12. Visit the Aruba Aloe Factory & Museum
Learn about one of Aruba’s most iconic exports at the Aruba Aloe Factory in Hato. The island’s dry climate is perfect for growing this healing plant, and the factory tour walks you through its cultivation, processing and use in skincare products. The on-site museum shares the plant’s history and benefits, and you can even pick up freshly made lotions and balms in the shop.
13. Walk Along Palm Beach at Night
Palm Beach comes alive after sunset with open-air lounges, beach bars and casual restaurants offering sea views and live music. Take a stroll along the palm-lined promenade, grab an ice cream cone or enjoy a cocktail with your toes in the sand. It’s one of the easiest and most relaxing ways to soak up Aruba’s tropical vibe without an agenda.
What To Do in Aruba
If you're wondering what to do in Aruba, start with its dazzling beaches, iconic shipwrecks and desert adventures. Dive beneath the waves, explore cactus-filled national parks, stroll colorful downtown streets and taste your way through its unique culinary scene. Aruba blends relaxation and discovery in one unforgettable island escape.
