32 BEST Things to Do in Aruba in 2023

The cold weather can have any one of us day dreaming about a trip to a tropical location. Just think – you could be sitting on the sandy shores of a gorgeous island, sipping a cocktail and participating in outstanding activities.

One tropical destination where there’s no end of activities is Aruba. There are tons of things to do on this tropical island, whether you’re looking for romantic relaxation or adrenaline-filled adventures.

To help you plan the perfect vacation, we’ve put together a list of the 32 best things to do in Aruba. Let’s check out what some of the top things to do in Aruba are!

1. Take a Private Horseback Riding Tour

One of the first things to do in Aruba is to go on a horseback riding tour! Seeing the island by horseback is a great way to learn more about the local history and check out everything that the area has to offer.

The tour departs from the Rancho Notorious, a farm situated just ten minutes from the cruise port and five minutes from Aruba’s high-rise hotels. A private van will pick you up from your accommodation and take you out to the departure point for your horseback tour. 

Once you arrive at the ranch, the guides will give you instructions about managing your horse. They’ll go over all the safety precautions you need to be aware of so that you can have a great experience.

After going through the safety briefing and helping you onto your horse, it’s time to head off on a 2-hour ride. The journey takes you through all kinds of different ecosystems on the island.

You’ll start by riding through a dry riverbed where you can view typical wildlife. Then, you’ll head to the island’s northeast coast to check out a coral and lava rock shore. 

Then you’ll head to a white sand beach for a quick photo opportunity with your horse. Your trip wraps up at Aruba’s famous white sand dunes, giving more experienced riders the chance to go for a gallop before heading back to the ranch. 

2. Plunge Beneath the Waves on a Submarine Adventure

It’s not every day that you get to dive beneath the ocean’s surface and see what life is like at the bottom of the sea. However, on a submarine excursion, you can do just that!

This trip takes you up to 130 feet below the ocean’s surface, allowing you a new way to view the ocean. During your tour, you’ll get a chance to see all kinds of colorful sea life.

The submarine tour starts by taking you out to the Barcadera Reef where you’ll be able to check out huge sea fans and stunning brain coral patches. As you admire the colorful underwater garden, a tour guide will explain the ecology of the site. 

From there, the boat will cruise past several shipwrecks. You’ll be able to explore the shipwreck in a way that’s only possible in an underwater vessel! After one hour of riding in this air-conditioned underwater boat, you’ll return to the surface and get ready for your next adventure.

3. Sail into the Sunset on a Happy Hour Cruise

If you’re looking for some of the top things to do in Aruba at night, we recommend taking a sunset tour. These happy hour cruises are a great way to wind down in the evening after a long day in the sun.

The happy hour cruise is operated by a catamaran called The Octopus. What makes this catamaran unique is that it is equipped with dozens of loungers, all of which have a view of the sea! Plus, the seats have extra-comfy cushions.

When you board the ship, you’ll be welcomed with the cocktail of your choice. Then, once you take your seat on one of the loungers, you can relax and enjoy the view as the crew brings you snacks and cocktails right to your chair. 

Since the catamaran has an open bar, you’ll be able to order any cocktail you like. Pair it with snacks, tropical fruit, and freshly baked bread as you watch the sun set over the Caribbean Sea. 

4. Go Off-Roading at Arashi Beach

If you want to get down and dirty on your visit to Aruba, you won’t want to miss the chance to go off-roading at Arashi Beach. This amazing tour allows you to drive your very own 4×4 and to see some of the incredible wonders Aruba has to offer.

After departing the tour meeting point, you’ll head out to the Natural Bridge ruins. This area is a natural rock formation that remained standing until 2005 when the crashing ocean waves finally caused it to collapse.

Then, drive your UTV out to the Cave Pool. You’ll be able to swim around in the secluded waters or to go cliff jumping into the ocean far below. 

After swimming at the Cave Pool for a while, you’ll head out to three more unique sights: the Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins, the Ayo rock formations, and the California lighthouse. You’ll learn all about the history of these unique sights!

Finally, drive your UTV out to Arashi Beach. At Arashi Beach, you’ll have time to go swimming or to simply soak up the sun on the white-sand shores before heading back to the hotel.

5. Eat a 4-Course Meal at Sea

One of life’s greatest pleasures is food, and that pleasure is doubled when you get to enjoy food in a beautiful setting. Why not treat yourself to just that by enjoying a four-course meal at sea?

One must-see activity in Aruba is to sit down to a fancy four-course meal aboard the Monforte III. This luxury vessel sails along the island’s rugged west coast and is staffed with a crew that goes above and beyond in everything they do!

Your evening will start with classic cocktails and romantic live music playing on deck. Then, as dusk turns to dark, you’ll sit down to a delicious dinner crafted by top-rated Aruban and international chefs. 

You’ll be able to drink unlimited premium beverages all night. Plus, you’ll adore the gourmet meal served up to you alongside glorious views of the Caribbean coast.

The cruise lasts roughly three hours, making it the perfect way to finish your day. It’s the ideal setting for a romantic evening with your partner after a full day exploring Aruba.

6. Spend a Day at De Palm Island

Did someone say waterpark? One of the best things to do in Aruba is to spend a day at De Palm Island! This area is an all-inclusive waterpark that’s great for kids and adults alike!

At the park, you’ll have the chance to go snorkeling, ride a banana boat, race down waterslides, and indulge in an authentic Caribbean buffet. You can also take the time to simply relax and unwind on the seashore, enjoying the beautiful views of the sea.

For those who are wanting to get some much-needed R&R, the park offers massage services. You can settle down to a soothing massage either on your own or with a friend. and sip on sweet cocktails as a masseuse works the kinks out of your back. 

Since there’s such a wide range of activities to check out at the park, it’s ideal for families. Parents can relax in the cabanas while their kids splash around in the body drop slides and splash zones!

7. Take a Boat Trip With an Open Bar

Who doesn’t love an open bar? If your idea of a good vacation involves cold drinks, lively music, and lots of dancing, then this is definitely an activity you don’t want to miss. 

On this boat trip, you’ll head out to a catamaran where you’ll enjoy a meet and greet with your crew and fellow travelers. The open bar will be ready to whip up a cold drink for you to sip on as you mix and mingle. 

After the mixer, it’s time to set sail. You’ll head out to the first stop of the day: the SS Antilla, to learn all about the unique history of the area. The boat’s crew provides snorkeling gear so that you can spend some time getting a better look at the shipwreck.

Next, you’ll climb back aboard the boat for a delicious lunch and more drinks. After eating your fill, you’ll make your way to the Boca Catalina Bay for a history lesson about the local area. 

You’ll also have time to go snorkeling in the bay and enjoy the sights and sounds of this special cove. Afterward, it’ll be time to climb back aboard the boat and head back to the hotel.

8. Go on a Semi-Submarine Tour

If you liked the idea of riding a submarine but felt nervous about going so far below the sea, a semi-submarine tour might be more your speed. This tour departs from De Palm Pier and takes you under the ocean on an air-conditioned boat. 

As you glide through the waters, you’ll learn all about the ecology and history of Aruba from a local guide. Listen to the guide’s stories as you look out the glassed-in, submerged viewing spaces at the troves of colorful fish swimming by.

Your tour will take you to the SS Antilla shipwreck and to the Arashi Reef as part of your tour. The guide has interesting commentaries provided throughout the entire journey, so you’re sure to come away having learned something new!

Once you’ve snapped all the photos your memory card can hold, it’s time to head back to shore. The boat will take you back to your original meeting point where you can gear up for your next adventure.

9. Be a Pirate for a Day

Arr, matey! Pirates are a part of Aruba’s history and their legacy lives on in this unique Aruban experience. 

If you want to be a pirate for the day, you’ll have the chance to do so aboard this replicated pirate ship. The ship departs from Hadicurari Beach and glides up the Palm Beach Coast. 

As you sail, you’ll be treated to refreshing tropical drinks from the open bar. You’ll also be treated to stunning sites of the Aruban shoreline and the beautiful fish that swim in the water.

After sailing for a while, the captain will take you to one of the largest shipwrecks in the Caribbean Sea for some snorkeling. Then, he’ll guide you over to the Boca Catalina Bay where you can use the ship’s rope swing to launch yourself into the gorgeous waters. 

When you’ve had enough of playing in the water, climb back aboard for a delicious lunch prepared by the crew. Then get ready to make your way back to Hadicurari Beach as you munch on snacks and sip on more beverages.  

10. Ride a Catamaran

There are few things more luxurious than riding across the Caribbean ocean on a catamaran cruise. That’s why it’s one of the top fun things to do in Aruba during your visit!

On this tour, you’ll get to spend half a day riding a 70-foot catamaran and snorkeling in Aruba. You’ll be able to see some incredible sights beneath the sea, including the stunning Arashi reef, Boca Catalina, and Antilla Shipwreck!

This trip starts with a driver picking you up from your accommodation, whether that’s a hotel or a cruise ship. From there, you’ll head down to the port where you’ll set sail on a catamaran and be whisked across the beautiful blue waters. 

Aboard your catamaran, you’ll get to enjoy an open bar with beer and cocktails. You’ll also sit down to a delicious lunch before arriving at several unique Aruban snorkeling destinations.  

After spending the day exploring the underwater world of Aruba, you’ll be ready to head back to the hotel. The tour leaders will drop you off at your hotel or cruise ship’s doorstep!

11. Spelunk on a Cave Jeep Safari

Do you want to live life on the edge? Then why not take a UTV tour of Aruba and try your hand at operating these unique motor vehicles!

This tour begins with a safety briefing where you’ll learn how to operate your UTV. Then, you’ll be taken through stunning historic neighborhoods in Aruba as you make your way out to Arikok National Park.

When you arrive at the park, the real fun begins. You’ll have the chance to go off-road and check out unique landforms in the area such as the Fontein Cave, which is home to ancient indigenous drawings. Keep an eye out for bats that call the cave home. 

Next, you’ll be taken to the Boca Prins dunes. You’ll love the coastal views and the stunning sandy shores. 

Finally, you’ll head to the park’s natural pool. It’s a place where you’ll be able to jump into the clear water and swim around for a bit before hopping back in your UTV and returning to the hotel.

12. Go Horse Riding at Arikok National Park

If you love hiking, then you won’t want to miss a trip to Arikok National Park. You can take a horse riding tour out to this amazing natural oasis to see some of the natural beauty of Aruba!

Since nearly 20% of Aruba is located in the national park, it’s the perfect way to really see the island.

Your trip will start at the Visitors’ Center where you’ll be able to see some of the animals native to Aruba. Check out different types of lizards and snakes before joining a park ranger on a tour of the area. 

As you hike through the park, you’ll learn more about the history, flora, and fauna of the island. Keep your eyes peeled as you go because you never know when you’ll spot some wildlife on this tour!

13. Start the Day With a Champagne Brunch

Who doesn’t love starting their day with a little champagne? This boozy breakfast activity departs from Pelican Pier, where you’ll get to know your crew and hop aboard the catamaran.

Once aboard, you’ll be treated to fresh mimosas as you take in the beautiful sights of the island. The boat has deck loungers for you to relax on while you sip on your drink as well as trampolines for you to make use of. 

When the boat gets out to the middle of the water, the crew comes out with steaming plates of breakfast food. You’ll love your tasty breakfast complete with a range of mixed drinks.

After you finished eating, the boat will arrive at the first of three snorkeling destinations. You’ll have the chance to climb off the boat and check out Boca Catalina, the Antilla Shipwreck, and Malmock Reef. 

When you’ve finished seeing all that the ocean has to offer, you’ll be ready to climb back aboard the boat. Enjoy the relaxing cruise back to the pier as you sip on cocktails.  

14. Take a Bus Tour of the Island

It wouldn’t really be a visit to Aruba if you didn’t get out and see the island! And no, we don’t just mean checking out the beaches.

Aruba is an island with a unique history, and it’s well worth taking the time to learn more about it. You can do so by taking a bus tour of the island and seeing all the popular tourist destinations and historical spots.

This tour lasts four and a half hours, meaning that you’ll still have time to hit the beach after spending the day discovering the island. The tour is offered in a private, air-conditioned bus and takes you from one side of the island to the other.

It starts with hotel pickup, and then brings you out to the California Lighthouse, found at the northwestern tip of the island. You’ll then head to the Alto Vista Chapel, the Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins, the Natural Bridge Ruins, and the CAsibari Rock formations. 

You’ll finish up your day of sightseeing with time to swim at Baby Beach. Then, you’ll be taken back to your hotel where you can gear up for your next adventure.

15. Go on an Animal Safari

If you love animals, then you won’t want to miss a trip to the Philips Animal Garden. This amazing spot is a place where you can visit animals who have been rescued.

The garden is home to land animals as well as tons of different types of birds. During your visit, you’ll have the chance to stroll through the garden and say hello to all of them!

You can also take a tour of the animal garden. Guided tours will take you through the garden to learn about each of the different animals that now call it home. You’ll also learn more about the history of the garden itself.

On top of that, you can purchase packages with lunch or drinks included. That way, you won’t go hungry while spending the day hanging out with these animals. 

Don’t forget to check the garden itinerary so that you can watch animal feedings. These are a unique way to learn more about the animals and to see how they’re cared for at the zoo.

16. Rent an Aqua Donut

When most people go on a beach vacation, they go kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding. What they don’t often do is rent an aqua donut!

Aqua donuts are motor-powered, circular flotation devices. They’re made out of fiberglass and are shaped like, you guessed it, donuts. They’re the perfect way to get out on the water and enjoy the sunshine!

On this amazing aqua donut adventure, you’ll enjoy a hotel pickup that takes you to the aqua donut pier. From there, you’ll be briefed on safety and handling procedures so that you can get out and have fun. 

After your briefing, you’ll be free to sail within 3 miles of the dock! You can stop and snorkel at any point or simply enjoy lounging aboard your shaded aqua donut. 

If you don’t want to be bothered with driving the aqua donut yourself, you can pay a small additional fee to bring a captain with you! He or she will drive the boat while you enjoy the amazing sights and sounds of the Caribbean.

17. Check Out the Ostrich Farm

We’ve heard of pig farms, sheep farms, and cow farms. But, have you heard of an ostrich farm? In Aruba, you can actually visit an ostrich farm and get up close and personal with these unique birds. 

On the ostrich farm, you’ll have a chance to walk around and view the herd of ostriches. The farm’s herd has over 40 ostriches, meaning that there are tons of amazing birds to see!

After exploring on your own for a bit, join a guided tour. You’ll not only see the birds, but you’ll learn all about what makes them special and why they’re great for farming. You’ll also get to see other birds that live on the farm. 

When the tour ends, the fun keeps going. Head to a complimentary lunch and enjoy your choice of a beer or smoothie. Then, enjoy a peaceful ride back to your cruise ship or hotel.

18. Go Beach Hopping

Who wants to go bar hopping when they can go beach hopping? Aruba is famous for its white-sand beaches and crystal clear, brilliantly blue Caribbean waters. 

One amazing thing to do during a stay in Aruba is to check out the island’s many beaches. And, what better way to do so than on a 4.5-hour beach hopping and snorkeling tour?

The tour starts with pickup from your hotel or resort. From there, you’ll head out to the beautiful Mangel Halto beach in an open-top bus. At the beach, you’ll have time to use the provided snorkeling equipment and to explore the ocean life in the area. 

After you’ve had your fill of Mangel Halto, your tour will continue to Baby Beach. Baby Beach is one of the most popular tours in Aruba and is an amazing way to check out schools of colorful fish!

Finally, you’ll wind down the day with a relaxing shuttle back to your hotel or cruise ship. It’s the perfect way to spend a morning on the island experiencing the best local beaches.

19. Relax at a Sinatra Show

One of the things to do in Aruba at night is to head to a Sinatra show. This is the perfect way to experience the local nightlife and get out and explore the area after dark.

This show consists of music arranged by Frank Sinatra, Harry Connick Jr, Michael Bublé, and other romantic singers. All the songs are sung by Fred de Jong, a famous Aruban vocalist. 

At the dinner show you’ll have an incredible time listening to your favorite Sinatra classics, such as:

• Fly Me to the Moon
• I’ve Got You Under My Skin
• New York, New York
• The Way You Look Tonight

The show is held every Thursday night from 7:30pm to 9:30pm and takes place in a cozy and romantic atmosphere. As you listen to the delightful tunes, you’ll be able to order local cuisine and tasty cocktails!

20. Hangout at a Butterfly Farm

Aruba has an incredible, tropical climate. That means that the island has warm weather and sunny skies year-round!

The tropical climate isn’t just great for people on a Caribbean cruise or tropical vacation. It’s also ideal for wildlife and, in particular, butterflies!

One unique spot you can visit while in Aruba is the Butterfly Farm. The farm has been around since 1999 and is a sanctuary where you’ll find tons of colorful, fluttering friends. 

During your visit, take a guided tour of the sanctuary to learn more about these incredible insects. Then, walk through the corridors of the butterfly sanctuary and watch as they land on your arms and provide you with perfect photo opportunities!

21. Feed Flamingos at Flamingo Beach

Most of us have seen flamingos at the zoo, but what about at the beach? Aruba’s flamingo beach is a unique location where you’ll have the chance to see flamingos in their natural habitat! 

What’s more, Flamingo Beach is the only location on the island where you can find flamingos that you can interact with. These flamingos have been in the area for a long time and are used to people. 

What that means is that you can actually feed the flamingos! Dive into the sparkling blue waters of the Caribbean and admire these bright pink birds hanging out by your side.  

22. View the Ayo and Casibari Rock Formations

The Ayo and Casibari Rock formations are some truly unique natural landforms. These rocks are located on the eastern side of the island and are a great place to go if you want a break from the beach. 

At the rock formations, you’ll have the chance to get beautiful views of the island. Plus, since they’re not as popular a tourist destination, you can skip the large crowds that hang around the rest of the island!

The rock formations are located in a rocky outcrop where you’ll find unique desert plants and beautiful dunes. They’re ideal for anyone who enjoys hiking!

23. Spend a Day at the Aloe Museum and Factory

Most of us love aloe vera for its soothing and hydrating properties. However, do you know where aloe actually comes from or how it’s processed?

If the answer is no, you might want to spend a day at the Aloe Museum and factory in Aruba! The Aruba Aloe Museum is the perfect place to pick up some fresh, organic products. 

The museum is actually a working aloe farm. It grows, processes, and sells all the aloe and aloe-related products available at the gift shop!

24. Climb the Hooiberg Volcanic Formation

Do you love hiking? Then tighten your shoelaces, grab your walking stick, and head out to the Hooiberg volcanic formation for the day!

Hooiberg is dutch for haystack, but that’s not what it means in the context of Aruba. Hooiberg is a volcanic formation situated in the middle of the island. 

The rock offers sweeping views of the island and is the best vantage point for seeing this tropical paradise. You’ll have quite a climb ahead of you though, so make sure to pack plenty of water!

25. Dig for Gold at the Bushiribana and Balashi Ruins

If you want to strike it rich, you could try your luck at the Bushiribana and Balashi ruins! These two historic sites were once the home of a fully operating gold mill. 

The mills were operational for just ten years before they shut down permanently. They were used to process the gold that was extracted from the nearby hills during Aruba’s gold rush.

During a tour of these sites, you’ll get to step back in time and learn all about the history of the ara. 

Although they haven’t been operational for over 200 years, they’re still an amazing place to visit. And hey, who knows, maybe you’ll find some gold among the ruins!

26. Dive the Antilla Shipwreck

Whether you’re a scuba diving fanatic or you’re planning to try it for the first time, a must-see attraction in Aruba is the Antilla shipwreck. This shipwreck is a German World War II ship and is one of the largest shipwrecks in the Caribbean.

To go scuba diving here, you’ll need to have your PADI open water certification. Don’t let that deter you if you don’t have it, however. Tour companies that offer dive excursions to the wreck offer training before you go underwater.

After you’re certified, your crew will help you gear up. Then, you’ll climb aboard a motorboat or catamaran and head out to the scuba diving site to go under the sea!

You’ll have a truly otherworldly experience when you dive beneath the waves and check out the Antilla shipwreck. Watch eels swim among the ruins and admire the brilliant coral growing around the wreck.

27. Jump Out of a Plane at Skydive Aruba

This one really is not for the faint of heart. Aruba’s stunning location in the Caribbean Sea and unique vegetation make it an incredible place to go skydiving.

As you jump out of a plane, you’ll get the chance to see the island in a unique way. It’s the perfect experience for anyone who’s wanting to really experience living life on the wild side during a Caribbean cruise or island getaway. 

When you go on a skydiving adventure in Aruba, you’ll get a quick safety briefing. Then, you’ll gear up and take to the skies to get ready for the adrenaline rush of a lifetime!

Make sure to book a photo package with your skydiving experience. After all, you want to make sure that you have proof of how brave you are.

28. Go on a Mural Walk

There are tons of different murals around the island of Aruba. The murals depict historic scenes, make bold political statements, and simply showcase the work of local artists. 

Speaking of local artists, if you visit during the right season, you can check out the infamous Aruba Art Fair. This annual event is a place where you can view and purchase local art or participate in art workshops. 

When you go on a mural walk, you can either do this on your own or with a tour guide. There are tons of locals around who offer up affordable tours that make for a great afternoon activity!

29. Sail Above the Sea on a Parasail

A great activity for adventure junkies to try is parasailing! Parasailing hooks you up to a parachute that’s trailed behind a high-speed boat, giving you gorgeous views of the island. 

While visiting Aruba, book a parasailing adventure. Make it extra romantic by booking a sunrise or sunset parasail tour and taking in the stunning scenery on your flight. 

The best part about parasailing in Aruba is that you can see the entire island during your trip. Parasailing adventures usually last about 30 minutes, meaning you can see what the island has to offer much faster than in a bus tour!

30. Take a Food Tour 

One reason why so many people visit this Western Caribbean island is because of the food. Aruba has some unique flavors thanks to the many cultures that are a part of its history. 

A few foods you might come across on your food tour include: 

• Aruban stobas (stews)
• Pastechi
• Sopis (soups)
• Fresh fish
• Keri Keri
• Pan Bati
• Lobster, prawns, and shrimp

To learn more about the island’s history and culture, go on a food tour. You’ll be introduced to all kinds of unique flavors and have the chance to experience meals unlike any other!

31. Catch Some Fish on a Deep Sea Fishing Trip

Aruba has tons of different types of fish, which is what makes it an amazing fishing destination. So, why not try your luck at casting a line on a deep-sea fishing tour during your stay?

Some of the big fish you can catch on a deep-sea fishing trip include barracuda, tuna, and kingfish. No matter which you manage to reel in, you’ll have something delicious to throw on the grill at night!

Deep-Sea Fishing trips typically last a whole day, making them a great way to get off the island for a little while. However, if you want to leave time for cooking your fish, you can take a half-day trip so that you can explore the island when you get back!

32. Go on a Helicopter Tour

There are few things as interesting and unique as seeing Aruba from above. And, one great way to get a bird’s eye view of the island is to take a helicopter tour!

On these tours, you can take to the skies with 2-3 passengers. The flight lifts off from the Seaport Helipad in downtown Oranjestad. 

Once in the sky, you’ll enjoy listening to the history of the area from your guide. Your pilot will point out sights along the way before touching back down after your loop around the island. 

Cruise Port Information

Your ship docks at Aruba Ports Authority, a large port that can dock up to 5 cruise ships. The port is very close to downtown Oranjestad and is only 1km away. The cruise terminal features souvenir shops, tourist information desks, ATM machine, and a communications desk.

Just across the cruise terminal, on L.G Smith Boulevard, a nice street lined with more shops and eateries is where you get buses to take you around town. They charge $2.30 round trip. Taxis are also in plenty here. They don’t have meters, so, agree on the price before departure.

The Government of Aruba, however, has predetermined taxi prices for popular tourist stops. You can also rent a car, jeep or ATV here. But here is an insider tip, get to the port early if you are looking to book an ATV, they lease out fast.

Read Also: IDEAL Things to Do in Grenada

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you still have some questions about heading to Aruba? We’ve got your back! Here are a few answers about some things you can do in Aruba.

Enjoy the Best Things to do in Aruba

There’s no shortage of things to do in Aruba, no matter what kind of getaway you’re planning. If you’re heading to this island nation for a vacation, be sure to book one of the amazing experiences on this list. 

Are you wanting more fun travel tips, tricks, and advice? Check out our other guides and articles over at Cruise Hive! Or, book a cruise and set sail for your own Aruba vacation!