Not sure what to do in Aruba? We've got you covered. Our travel experts compiled the best activities in Aruba so you can make the most of your trip.
Oranjestad
Oranjestad
Aruba's capital is easily explored on foot. Its palm-lined central thoroughfare runs between old and new pastel-painted buildings of typical Dutch design (Spanish influence is also evident in some of the architecture). There are a lot of malls with boutiques and shops—the Renaissance mall carries high-end luxury items and designer fashions. A massive renovation in downtown has given Main Street (a.k.a. Caya G. F. Betico Croes) behind the Renaissance Resort a whole new lease on life: boutique malls, shops, and restaurants have opened next to well-loved family-run businesses.
The pedestrian-only walkway and resting areas have unclogged the street, and the new eco-trolley is free and a great way to get around. At this writing, Linear Park was well and will showcase local merchants and artists. There will be activities along a boardwalk that will eventually run all the way to the end of Palm Beach, making it the longest of its kind in the Caribbean.
Eagle Beach
Eagle Beach
Aruba's most photographed beach and widest by far, especially in front of the Manchebo resort, Eagle Beach is not only a favorite with visitors and locals, but also of sea turtles. More sea turtles nest here than anywhere else on the island. This pristine stretch of blinding white sand and aqua surf frequently ranks ranks among the best beaches in the world. Many of the hotels have facilities on or near the beach, and refreshments are never far away, but chairs and shade palapas are reserved for guests only. Amenities: food and drink; toilets. Best for: swimming; walking; sunset.
Arikok National Park
Arikok National Park
Nearly 20% of Aruba has been designated part of Arikok National Park, which sprawls across the eastern interior and the northeast coast. The new, eco-friendly visitor center is built entirely of sustainable South American hardwood, uses solar panels for clean energy, and cools the building with an underground water basin. The park is the keystone of the government's long-term ecotourism plan to preserve Aruba's resources and showcases the island's flora and fauna. Other highlights include ancient Arawak petroglyphs, ruins of a gold-mining operation at Miralmar, and remnants of Dutch peasant settlements in Masiduri. Within the confines of the park are Mt. Arikok and the 620-foot Mt. Yamanota, Aruba's highest peak. The natural pool (conchi) is a popular snorkeling destination and a beautiful natural phenomenon.
Anyone looking for geological exotica should head for the park's caves, found on the northeastern coast. Baranca Sunu, the so-called Tunnel of Love, has a heart-shape entrance and naturally sculpted rocks farther inside that look like the Madonna, Abraham Lincoln, and even a jaguar. Fontein Cave, which was used by indigenous peoples centuries ago, is marked with ancient drawings (rangers are on hand to offer explanations). Bats are known to make appearances—don't worry, they won't bother you. Although you don't need a flashlight because the paths are well lighted, it's best to wear sneakers.
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Palm Beach Plaza
Palm Beach Plaza at Night
Palm Beach Plaza is situated on 30,000 square meters of Aruba's most prime property. Located just moments away from Aruba's Palm Beach Hotels, Palm Beach Plaza is a multilevel mall with approximately 15000 square meters of fine shopping, dining and entertainment. More than just a shopping mall, Palm Beach Plaza features a state-of the-art amphitheater, spectacular water features and entertainment for the entire family.
Aruba's most modern multi-story mall has three floors of shops offering fashion, tech, electronics, jewelry, souvenirs, and more. Entertainment includes, glow-in-the-dark bowling, a modern video arcade, a sports bar, and the main floor indoor courtyard is often used for local festivals and events like fashion shows. Dining includes a food court and stand-alone restaurants and bars, and there are also modern air-conditioned cinemas and a spa within.
Eetcafe The Paddock
Eetcafe The Paddock
It's impossible to miss the big red roof just off the marina, especially since there is a large Holstein cow, a big dinosaur, and an entire car sitting on top of it! But that's the point. Wild, crazy, and whimsical is their claim to fame, and there's no better spot in town to catch Dutch “futball” if you're seeking the craziest orange-clad die-hard fans.
Though it's a popular tourist lunch spot during the day, this joint really morphs into party-hearty mode at night, full of carousing locals and visitors alike enjoying the great deals on drinks via the late-night happy hours and dollar-beer specials. Live music often adds to the revelry.
Tips For Travelers
Currency
You probably won't need to change any money if you're coming from the United States. American currency is accepted almost everywhere in Aruba, though you might get some change back in local currency—the Aruban florin, also called the guilder.
Electricity
Aruba's current is 110 volts, just as in the United States.
Nightlife
Aruba is renowned for its nightlife and casinos; the legal drinking and gambling age is 18.
Traffic
Oranjestad traffic can be heavy during rush hour. Allow a bit of extra time if you're trying to get into town for dinner.
Water
You can safely drink the water in Aruba. It's one of the few places in the world to rely almost completely on desalinated seawater for drinking.
