8 Best Sights in Aruba

Covering almost 20% of the island's landmass, this protected preserve of arid cacti-studded outback has interesting nature and wildlife if you know where to look. There are close to 30 miles of hiking trails within the park zone, including a trek up Mt. Jamanota, the island’s highest peak. Hiking maps for all levels of hikers are free at the visitor center, and in-depth maps of the park and its attractions are also available for download online at their website. It's highly recommended to take a guided tour on foot or by vehicle, as the roads can be very rough in some places; there are plenty of excursions by ATV, UTV, Jeep safaris, and more. A guided preview of what you can expect will help you if you want to return in your own rental car as well, but keep in mind that a 4x4 vehicle is a must and all visitors must pay a park entrance fee, which helps fund the park's conservation. Some trails lead to glorious seaside coastal views, but a guided tour will help you understand the significance of the region and help you find attractions like the caves on the northeastern coast. There are no facilities past the visitor center so bring plenty of water and sunscreen and wear good shoes, as the terrain is very rocky. A new region near Spanish Lagoon has also been added recently as part of its protected area due to the importance of its freshwater canals and mangrove forests, but it is closer to Savaneta on the southwest coast and not within the original park confines. There is also an entrance to the park closer to San Nicolas at the Van Piet wind farm; there is a small kiosk there to pay your entrance fee and get information, but no facilities. You can book free guided hikes with a park ranger by phone or email, but you must reserve 48 hours in advance.

The natural pool, also known as Conchi, meaning “bowl,” was once a very secret spot due to its remote location, but today it’s frequently visited by tour groups. It’s worth the trip though—the scene of wild surf crashing over ancient black volcanic rocks into a placid aqua pool is epic, and the spray of the cold seawater shooting over the top upon you while you swim or snorkel is exhilarating.

You can also hike here on foot with Aruba Nature Adventures or drive your own 4x4 rental, but it's best to go with guides, as the roads are rough and steep. Bring water shoes with a good grip; the rocks at the entrance to the pool are very slippery. Listen closely to your guide when entering the pool for safety's sake.

Take a free tour of the island's only donkey sanctuary where volunteers help abandoned and sometimes ill wild animals enjoy a happy forever home. This is a nonprofit organization and can always use help, whether financially or with chores. You can donate there or on their website, and you can even adopt a donkey—your donation goes to its annual feed and care. There is also a great donkey-themed gift shop. It's a great family outing for all ages. Bring apples and carrots if you want to make fast friends with the residents.  For any donation, you can have a one-on-one hugging session with a donkey for 30 minutes. It’s a great stress reliever. 

Arikok National Park has three ancient caves under its protection, Huliba (aka Tunnel of Love) is no longer open to the public for environmental reasons, but Fontein and Quadirikiri are. Quadiriki is the best bet if you only have time to visit one as it has natural skylights within which are ethereal and enchanting and make for excellent photographs. Be forewarned that flash photography is not permitted as it disturbs the hundreds of resident bats that make this cave their home, but don't worry, they are harmless and sleep all day. Park rangers at the entrance will take you on a free and informative guided tour. Wear closed-toe shoes, the interior is rocky and ground bugs live there, too.

At the park's main entrance, Arikok Visitor Center houses offices, restrooms, and food facilities. All visitors must stop here upon entering so that officials can manage the traffic flow and hand out information on park rules and features.  If you intend to spend a lot of your holiday hiking in or simply exploring the park, consider purchasing a yearly pass for $50 (a day pass is $15).

You'll need a four-wheel-drive vehicle to make the trek to this strip of coastline near Fontein Cave and Blue Lagoon. Famous for its backdrop of stunning sand dunes, the beach itself is small, but with two rocky cliffs and crashing waves, it's as romantic as Aruba gets. The water is rough and swimming is prohibited, but it's a perfect picnic stop. Wear sturdy shoes, as the beach is rocky. Amenities: none. Best for: walking; solitude.

One of the most photogenic picnic spots on the island, this beach is two coves divided by limestone cliffs. One is treasured by surfers for its rolling waves; the other looks placid but has a current that is far too strong for swimming—you'll have to settle for sunbathing only. The best access is by four-wheel drive, as it's within the boundaries of rugged Arikok National Park, but do not drive on the sand or rocks. You might see locals surfing, but unless you are a pro, don’t try it yourself—the current is dangerously strong. Amenities: none. Best for: walking; solitude.

This is the park's most popular cave as it's the only one with drawings by Arawak Indians on its ceilings. The caves are accessible during park hours, and rangers are stationed outside the cave and can provide tours that explain the history of the cave drawings as well as discuss the resident stalagmites and stalactites. The cave floor is uneven, and there can be creepy crawlies underfoot, so closed-toe shoes are encouraged. Ask the ranger where the little pool is nearby if you want a free fish pedicure! If you have time, check out the two-chambered Quadirikiri Cave; sunlight pouring through holes in the cave's roof lights the space.