Aruba
We’ve compiled the best of the best in Aruba - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.
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1. Alhambra Casino
Part of the Divi family and accessible by complimentary golf cart shuttle from all of the company's resorts except for Divi Phoenix, this is a...
Part of the Divi family and accessible by complimentary golf cart shuttle from all of the company's resorts except for Divi Phoenix, this is a lively popular casino with a big selection of modern slots, blackjack, craps, poker, roulette, and more. Be sure to join their Player’s Club—it’s free and offers free slot credits, and you earn points with your card as well. The Cove restaurant serves light meals and drinks; you’ll also receive free drinks on the floor when you’re playing the games. Special theme nights and promotions run all week.
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2. Alto Vista Chapel
Meaning “high view,” Alto Vista was built in 1750 as the island’s first Roman Catholic Church. The simple yellow-and-orange structure stands out in bright contrast...
Meaning “high view,” Alto Vista was built in 1750 as the island’s first Roman Catholic Church. The simple yellow-and-orange structure stands out in bright contrast to its stark desert-like surroundings, and its elevated location affords a wonderful panoramic view of the northwest coast. Restored in 1953, it still holds regular services today and also serves as the culmination point of the annual walk of the cross at Easter. You will see small signposts guiding the faithful to the Stations of the Cross all along the winding road to its entrance. This landmark is a typical stop on most island tours. Make sure to walk out back to see the Aruba Peace Labyrinth. Make sure to buy coconut water from the famous coconut man out front.
Alto Vista Rd., Noord, n/a Aruba, Aruba -
3. Arashi Beach
This is the local favorite, a half-mile stretch of gleaming white sand with rolling surf and great snorkeling. It can get busy on weekends—especially on...
This is the local favorite, a half-mile stretch of gleaming white sand with rolling surf and great snorkeling. It can get busy on weekends—especially on Sunday—with local families bringing their own picnics, and visitors have discovered a cool little beach bar called Arashi Beach Shack there with great food, drinks, a lounge, and beach umbrella rentals. Amenities:food and drink; toilets; parking (free). Best for: swimming; snorkeling; walking.
Malmokweg, n/a Aruba, Aruba -
4. Arikok National Park
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....
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 ecoconservation. 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. You can book free guided hikes with a park ranger by phone or email, but must reserve 48 hours in advance.
San Fuego 70, Arikok National Park, n/a Aruba, Aruba297-585–1234Sight Details
Rate Includes: $11, Park closes at 4 pm daily -
5. ArtisA
Part art gallery, part administrative foundation, ArtisA (Art is Aruba) is responsible for the art and culture revolution in San Nicolas. The foundation displays local...
Part art gallery, part administrative foundation, ArtisA (Art is Aruba) is responsible for the art and culture revolution in San Nicolas. The foundation displays local art for sale, hosts monthly exhibits for local artists, and is the spot to purchase tickets for the guided Aruba Mural Tours (also available online). They are now hosting art-meets-cuisine special events with local chefs' table dinners highlighting a showcase inspired by local artists within their space.
Bernard van de Veen Zeppenfeldstraat 6, San Nicolaas, n/a Aruba, Aruba297-593–4475Sight Details
Rate Includes: Closed Sun. -
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6. Aruba Linear Park
Plaza Turismo, off Surfside Beach, is the anchor of the Linear Park which, when completed, will connect both main tourist beaches along the coast by...
Plaza Turismo, off Surfside Beach, is the anchor of the Linear Park which, when completed, will connect both main tourist beaches along the coast by boardwalks and walking paths. The first leg—a smooth paved biking and jogging trail that runs from downtown Oranjestad along the sea all the way to the airport—is complete. There are many cafés, bars, and snack stops along the way, and there are also fitness pit stops with free-to-use public fitness equipment. It's a popular stretch for local fun runs and fitness initiatives, and locals and visitors use the easy-to-access Green Bike rental kiosks. Much like "Bixi Bike" operations, you can use your credit card to grab a bike and then leave it at another stop. The plaza has also become a go-to spot for cultural events and outdoor entertainment. A new portion was added in 2021 to the Malmok area that ends at Fisherman's Huts Beach. When complete, the Linear Park will be the longest of its kind in the entire Caribbean.
Oranjestad, n/a Aruba, ArubaSight Details
Rate Includes: Free -
7. Baby Beach
On the island's eastern tip (near the refinery), this semicircular beach borders a placid bay of turquoise water that's just about as shallow as a...
On the island's eastern tip (near the refinery), this semicircular beach borders a placid bay of turquoise water that's just about as shallow as a wading pool—perfect for families with little ones. A small coral reef basin at the sea's edge offers superb snorkeling, but do not pass the barrier as the current is extremely strong outside the rocks. The JADS dive shop offers snorkel equipment rentals, and this is a popular place to see and swim with sea turtles, too. Rum Reef on one end is a unique adults-only bar and infinity pool overlooking the beach, and below it is a family-friendly beach and snack bar. On the other end you can rent clamshell shade tents and lounges on the beach from Big Mamma Grill, also a family-friendly gathering spot. Amenities: food and drink; showers; toilets; parking (free); Best for: snorkeling; swimming.
Seroe Colorado, n/a Aruba, Aruba -
8. Butterfly Farm
Hundreds of butterflies and moths from around the world flutter about this spectacular garden. Guided tours (included in the price of admission) provide an entertaining...
Hundreds of butterflies and moths from around the world flutter about this spectacular garden. Guided tours (included in the price of admission) provide an entertaining look into the life cycle of these insects, from egg to caterpillar to chrysalis to butterfly or moth. After your initial visit, you can return as often as you like for free during your vacation. Go early in the morning when the butterflies are most active; wear bright colors if you want them to land on you. Early morning is also when you are most likely to see the caterpillars emerge from their cocoons and transform into butterflies or moths. Their little Nectar Café out front serves refreshing drinks and homemade popsicles.
J. E. Irausquin Blvd., Palm Beach, n/a Aruba, Aruba297-586–3656Sight Details
Rate Includes: $16 (good for return visits) -
9. California Lighthouse
Built in 1916, the landmark lighthouse on the island’s eastern tip is open to the public, and visitors can climb the spiral stairs to discover...
Built in 1916, the landmark lighthouse on the island’s eastern tip is open to the public, and visitors can climb the spiral stairs to discover a fabulous panoramic view for a small fee. Declared a national monument in 2015, the lighthouse was built because of and named after, the merchant ship California that sunk nearby. There are also spectacular private catered 3-course dinner experiences for two people at the top that can be booked through Experitours; there's a choice of sunset seating or under-the-stars seating. It's one of only two lighthouse dinner experiences in the world.
2 Hudishibana, Westpunt, n/a Aruba, Aruba297-699–0995Sight Details
Rate Includes: $5 -
10. Conchi (Natural Pool)
The Natural Pool, also known as "conchi," meaning “bowl,” was once a very secret spot due to its remote location, but today it’s well visited...
The Natural Pool, also known as "conchi," meaning “bowl,” was once a very secret spot due to its remote location, but today it’s well visited by many ATV, UTV, and jeep safari tours. You can also reach it by horseback or on foot from the visitor center if you’re up for a two-hour hike in the hot sun. (Best to get a park ranger to guide you there.) It’s not really recommended to drive there on your own, even if you have a 4x4 rental, as the roads are rough and steep, but if you do, go early in the morning to avoid the touring crowd who typically start showing up around 10 am. Regardless of the crowd, it’s worth the trip—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 when you’re swimming or snorkeling is exhilarating. A minor oil spill closed the site temporarily in September 2021. Bring water shoes with a good grip; the rocks at the entrance to the pool are very slippery.
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11. Cosecha San Nicolas
Sister outfit of the downtown location, this arty emporium is a wonderful place to view and purchase high quality made-in-Aruba art, crafts, jewelry, and more....
Sister outfit of the downtown location, this arty emporium is a wonderful place to view and purchase high quality made-in-Aruba art, crafts, jewelry, and more. Workshops for all ages are available on a regular basis so you can learn to work with different mediums and create your own unique Aruban souvenirs, too. Special exhibitions and events with local artists occur on a rotating basis as well.
Bernard van de Veen Zeppenfeldstraat 20, San Nicolaas, n/a Aruba, Aruba297-587–8709Sight Details
Rate Includes: Sun. to Wed., Open Thurs.--Sat. 1:30 pm--6:30 pm -
12. Donkey Sanctuary Aruba
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...
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 financial 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 carrots and apples for a really warm welcome from the residents.
2-Z Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, n/a Aruba, Aruba297-593–2933Sight Details
Rate Includes: Free -
13. Eagle Beach
Aruba's most photographed stretch of sand, Eagle Beach is not only a favorite with visitors and locals, but also of sea turtles. More sea turtles...
Aruba's most photographed stretch of sand, 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 is ranked 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 resort guests only. Amenities: food and drink; toilets; parking (no fee). Best for: sunsets; swimming; water sports.
J. E. Irausquin Blvd., Druif, n/a Aruba, Aruba -
14. Gloria-Movies, Entertainment, Dining & Play
This exciting new entertainment complex was named after “Teatro Gloria,” Aruba’s very first movie theatre built back in 1930s, and now offers the most modern...
This exciting new entertainment complex was named after “Teatro Gloria,” Aruba’s very first movie theatre built back in 1930s, and now offers the most modern cinematic experience in the entire Caribbean. There are ten cinemas in all including IMAX and VIP Theatres and there’s also a children’s bouncy playground, a Starbucks, a huge food court, and stand-alone upscale dining options like P.F. Chang’s and VIP Grill & Lounge. There are also special musical events with live bands or DJs.
Caya Dr. J.E.M. Arends 8, Eagle Beach, n/a Aruba, Aruba297-523-6841 -
15. Manchebo Beach
Impressively wide, the white-sand shoreline in front of the Manchebo Beach Resort (technically where Eagle Beach begins) is the backdrop for the numerous yoga classes...
Impressively wide, the white-sand shoreline in front of the Manchebo Beach Resort (technically where Eagle Beach begins) is the backdrop for the numerous yoga classes now taking place under the giant palapa since the resort began offering health and wellness retreats. This sandy stretch is the broadest on the island; in fact you can even get a workout just getting to the water! Waves can be rough and wild at certain times of the year, though, so mind the current and undertow when swimming. Amenities: food and drink; toilets. Best for: swimming; sunsets; walking. The Bucuti beach bar is reserved exclusively for guests of the Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort.
J. E. Irausquin Blvd., Druif, n/a Aruba, Aruba -
16. Museum of Industry
The old water tower in San Nicolas has been beautifully restored into a modern, interactive museum chronicling the different types of industries that have fueled...
The old water tower in San Nicolas has been beautifully restored into a modern, interactive museum chronicling the different types of industries that have fueled the island's economy over the past two centuries. Phosphate, gold, oil, and aloe all played major parts in the island's fortunes until tourism became Aruba's main economic driver. Displays include artifacts and profiles of colorful characters who played big roles in different eras; guided tours are offered (the last tour of the day starts at 5 pm). One of the highlights is the culture wall, a mural consisting of portraits of locals through the ages, all leading up the glassed-in walls of the old tower staircase.
Bernhardstraat 164, San Nicolaas, n/a Aruba, Aruba297-584–7090Sight Details
Rate Includes: $5, Closed Sun. -
17. Palm Beach
This is the island's most populated and popular beach running along the high-rise resorts, and it's crammed with every kind of water-sports activity and food-and-drink...
This is the island's most populated and popular beach running along the high-rise resorts, and it's crammed with every kind of water-sports activity and food-and-drink emporium imaginable. It's always crowded no matter the season, but it's a great place for people-watching, sunbathing, swimming, and partying; and there are always activities happening like paddleboarding, and even paddleboard yoga. The water is pond-calm; the sand, powder-fine. Amenities: food and drink; showers; toilets; water sports. Best for: partiers; swimming.
J. E. Irausquin Blvd. between Divi Phoenix Resort and Ritz-Carlton Aruba, Palm Beach, n/a Aruba, Aruba -
18. Philip's Animal Garden
This nonprofit exotic animal rescue and rehabilitation foundation is a wonderful, child-friendly attraction you'll find just off the beaten track up in Noord. Each guest...
This nonprofit exotic animal rescue and rehabilitation foundation is a wonderful, child-friendly attraction you'll find just off the beaten track up in Noord. Each guest is given a bag of treats for the animal residents, which include monkeys, peacocks, an emu, an ocelot, an alpaca, and many other types of creatures you're not likely to see elsewhere on Aruba. There's a large playground and ranch so little ones can run. It is also a stop on some tours.
Alto Vista 116, Noord, n/a Aruba, Aruba297-593–5363Sight Details
Rate Includes: $10 -
19. Stellaris Casino
This is one of the largest casinos on the island. There are 500 modern interactive slots as well as 26 tables with games like craps,...
This is one of the largest casinos on the island. There are 500 modern interactive slots as well as 26 tables with games like craps, roulette, poker, and blackjack. There's a state-of-the-art race and sports-betting operation. Don't forget to join the VIP Club program, where you can earn points, comps, and prizes. They offer free cocktails for gamers, and there are many special theme and entertainment nights.
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20. Studio Murano Art
The latest attraction in Ayo, Santa Cruz is a large, beautifully restored cunucu house that offers daily glassblowing exhibitions by a master artisan from the...
The latest attraction in Ayo, Santa Cruz is a large, beautifully restored cunucu house that offers daily glassblowing exhibitions by a master artisan from the island of Murano, Italy, famous for its glass art. Also on the property is a large bar/restaurant with a very interesting and eclectic choice of international fare. It’s an odd combination, but it really works, and it’s become a popular stop for groups doing island tours. Watch free daily presentations between 11 am and 1 pm, and shop for original souvenirs on-site; you can book a workshop to make your own glass art souvenir.
Ayo 22, Santa Cruz, n/a Aruba, Aruba297-584--8148Sight Details
Rate Includes: Free
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