23 Unique Things to Do in Aruba

Looking for unique things to do in Aruba? On the search for the best Aruba attractions? It’s no secret – Aruba offers tons of things to do during your vacation. Below are some off the beaten track sites across the island and most unique things to do in Aruba.

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When most travelers picture Aruba, what may come to mind are the long sunny days lounging oceanside at a pristine resort beach.

And, there’s no doubt – Aruba’s beaches are great for lounging!

But for anyone who is looking for a more adventurous or active or unique experience, Aruba can certainly deliver.

When I was visiting Aruba, I felt determined to see every corner of the island. I wanted to see the lava rocks and the cacti and the flamingoes and the underwater world. I wanted to lounge, and hike, and explore.

Luckily, Aruba can be what you make it.

Aruba offers activities for adventurers, secret-spots for beach-goers, and loads of surprises within it’s tiny borders. Here are some of the most unique things to do in Aruba – and I am certain that there is something here for everyone!

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Unique Things To Do in Aruba

1) Hike the desert in Arikok National Park.

While Aruba is famed for it’s incredible beaches, you might be surprised to learn that the island is also covered in desert. No area more so than inside of Arikok National Park.

Arikok’s protected land covers nearly 20% of the island. With everything from cactus-studded hikes to powerful and jagged shorelines, this park is a must see.

Pro tip: if you have never hiked in the desert before, please take a look at these desert hiking essentials. They will set you up for a safe and enjoyable trek.

It’s just so far out of left-field from what you would picture on a Caribbean island – and that’s exactly why I loved it!

If you have a rental car (I always get the best prices here), you can self-drive to Arikok National Park. If you don’t have a car, consider a guided Arikok National Park Hiking tour.

You’ll see the best views while learning about the plant and animal life in Aruba. And, you’ll get to hike with an expert Arikok National Park ranger.

If you want to see more than just the beaches, this desert tour is an absolute must!

2) Discover dark and mysterious caves.

Aruba is home to three dark and mysterious caves just waiting to be explored; the Huliba Cave, the Fontein Cave, and the Quadirikiri Cave.

Huliba Cave is often referred to as the “Tunnel of Love” due to it’s heart-shaped entrance. Fontein Cave is special for the original cave drawings inside, created by Arawak Indians 2000-3500 years years ago.

And my personal favorite, Quadirikiri Cave is best-known for it’s bright natural skylights shining down into the darkness of the tunnel.

These caves are some of the most unexpected and unique things to do in Aruba. The natural rock formations are rugged and beautiful.

3) See the island on horseback.

Prefer to see the island by horseback? That can easily be arranged!

Explore Aruba’s beaches on a horseback riding adventure from Noord. You’ll see breathtaking panoramic views across the beautiful beaches, sand dunes, and ocean views.

The horseback riding tour includes pickup and drop off, an experienced guide, helmets, and more.

See the incredible highlights of the North-East end of the island including Lovers Cove, Wish Garden, White Sand Dunes, Safire Hill, Local Fisherman’s Huts, the Hidden Valley, and much more.

Many of these places are tough to visit on your own! Luckily, this tour makes it easy.

☑️ BOOK YOUR HORSEBACK RIDING TOUR HERE! ☑️

4) Hang out with flamingos on Renaissance Island.

While this activity may not exactly be unknown, it is certainly something that cannot be experienced on any old beach in the Caribbean Islands!

Flamingo Beach is located on the private Renaissance Island. When I visited, exactly 12 flamingos called Flamingo Beach “home”.

As an artist, the palette of bright pinks and cool turquoise are visually beautiful. As an animal lover, the chance to observe and even interact with the gorgeous birds was unforgettable!

You can observe the pretty birds, or feed them, or just hang out in the water with them. Whatever you do, don’t chase them! They will come to you at their own pace.

Only one hotel offers access to these beautiful birds, and it is necessary to plan the trip in advance. Otherwise, it typically sells out. Book your hotel stay now and secure your visit to Flamingo Beach!

To learn more about visiting, check out my post on Flamingo Beach in Aruba. This is one thing on your Aruba bucket list that you cannot miss!

☑️ BOOK YOUR HOTEL FOR FLAMINGO BEACH NOW! ☑️

5) Go beach-hopping & snorkeling.

Aruba is so small that it is actually easy to visit several beaches all in the same day. At 20 miles long and 6 miles wide, a beach is never far from wherever you are in Aruba!

Some of the best beaches in Aruba are located well off the tourist track, though. You will either need to rent a car, or book a snorkeling tour.

GET THE BEST RENTAL CAR PRICES HERE!

From calm and pristine spots like Baby Beach to colorful snorkeling spots like Mangel Halto to aggressive-yet-beautiful spots like Dos Playas, they all have their own personality.

This beach hopping tour offers round trip transport from either your hotel or the cruise port. And, all necessary gear is provided.

6) Explore the old Bushiribana Gold Mill ruins.

Aruba is home to several gold-rush related sites that are offer a fascinating glimpse into the island’s past life.

Bushiribana Gold Mill, pictured above, was a thriving enterprise in the 1900’s. Oddly enough, it was built as an oceanfront mill on the east side of the island. The ruins can be accessed by foot on the windy seaside cliff.

While there is not much left from over 100 years ago, it is an interesting stop to climb through.

You can even book a UTV adventure tour that explores the Bushiribana gold mine ruins and also visits the famous Ayo Rock Formations, where you can see ancient Indian drawings.

If you find the glimpse into old gold rush days worthwhile, you can also explore the Miralamar ruins.

Miralamar in Arikok National Park houses the ruins of another old gold mine. It is accessible via a short hike on the Miralamar Trail near the Visitor’s Center.

The third gold rush site is located near the Spanish Lagoon and is called the Balashi Gold Mill. It’s strange to picture the bustling days of gold-prospecting in a place like Aruba! But these are definitely some of the most interesting and unique things to do in Aruba.

☑️ BOOK YOUR UTV AND GOLD RUINS TOUR HERE! ☑️

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7) Snorkel to the Antilla shipwreck.

The Antilla Shipwreck is located off the western coast of Aruba, roughly three miles out from Malmok Beach. It sits just 66 feet underwater, making it easily accessible for snorkelers!

The Antilla was launched in 1939. It operated for less than a year before the crew set it on fire to avoid capture by the Dutch. Today, the wreck houses the colorful sea life of the Caribbean, such as lobsters, sea turtles, and manta rays.

It is absolutely necessary to take a boat or a tour to reach the shipwreck. This Half-Day Catamaran and Snorkeling Tour does just that – and much more!

You’ll explore the beauty of the Caribbean Sea, enjoy beautiful snorkel stops, and have a tasty breakfast (complete with mimosas) and lunch.

The highlight is definitely the shipwreck, which is so interesting to learn about and fun to explore!

☑️ BOOK YOUR SHIPWRECK AND SNORKELING TOUR HERE! ☑️

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8) Take a full-day sightseeing tour.

Want to see everything that Aruba has to offer? Or, looking to get your bearings on your first day on the island?

I highly recommend this Full Day Aruba Sightseeing Tour!

You’ll see the iconic California Lighthouse, the Ayo Rock Formations and Indian drawings, the old Gold Mill ruins, Baby Beach, and much more.

I honestly can’t recommend this tour enough, particularly if it is your first time visiting Aruba. It’s a great introduction where you’ll quickly learn what areas you want to prioritize and explore further.

☑️ BOOK YOUR FULL DAY SIGHTSEEING TOUR HERE! ☑️

9) Or, take a self-drive tour instead.

For those who plan to rent a car in Aruba (feel free to read my transportation guide beforehand for tips!) you may prefer to see the sights solo.

In that case, I would highly recommend this self-guided audio tour around the island.

Learn about the Battle of Aruba, see the island’s most pristine beaches, and learn about real pirate adventures which once swept through the Caribbean.

Drive at your own pace and follow the included GPS and map, provided. You’ll pay a low price tag for a high value introduction to the island.

☑️ BOOK YOUR SELF GUIDED AUDIO TOUR HERE! ☑️

10) Go off-roading in Arikok National Park.

Much of the wild and rugged terrain of Aruba cannot be visited in any old rental car. Trust me, I tried!

To get to the most tucked-away corners deep within Arikok National Park, you’ll want to book this Afternoon Arikok UTV tour. It is the perfect adventure for adrenaline junkies and outdoor lovers!

You’ll get to see those hard-to-find locations deep within Arikok National Park’s eastern shores that most visitors can’t even dream of.

Visit the Fontein Cave and Boca Prins and rugged natural landscapes that you would never think could be found on Aruba.

11) Meet the ostriches of Aruba.

Did you know that Aruba is home to its very own ostrich farm? This unique Aruba attraction can be visited on the Paradera Ostrich Farm Tour!

Here you can get up close to the largest bird in the world. Learn about the bird’s habits and behaviors as you interact with them on a guided tour.

You’ll also get to meet the other birds of the farm, like the emu, ducks, geese, silk chickens, and peacocks.

Included is a delicious local lunch and an ice-cold beverage like a beer or a smoothie. Transportation is included, too.

☑️ BOOK YOUR PARADERA OSTRICH FARM TOUR HERE! ☑️

12) Go swimming in a natural pool.

Aruba is known for it’s stunning natural pools, and it is completely possible for tourists to visit them!

However, they are inaccessible for rental cars, so you do need to book a tour. This Off Road Natural Pool Safari more than does the trick.

Your expert drivers will lead your group to some of the best hidden sights on your way to the pool. See the lighthouse, the Natural Bridge and crazy rock formations.

Once you reach the Natural Pool, you can use the provided snorkeling equipment to explore the underwater world inside the volcanic rock pool. It’s basically your own private aquarium where you can get up close and personal to colorful sea life.

Your tour later ends with convenient drop-off back to your hotel. It is well worth the cost, and then some!

☑️ BOOK YOUR OFF ROAD NATURAL POOL SAFARI HERE! ☑️

13) Plunge Into the Depths in a Submarine

Yep, you read that right. You can take a submarine tour in Aruba!

Atlantis Submarines offers daily excursions into the depths of the ocean to 130 feet. This US Coast Guard–certified submarine gives you a close look at the shipwrecks and marine life in the Barcadera Reef. The interior of the Atlantis Submarine provides a spacious, air-conditioned vessel to keep you dry while underwater.

If you are not into taking a snorkel or scuba-dive tour, this is a great way to see Aruba’s underwater world without stress. It is suitable for all ages.

☑️ BOOK YOUR ATLANTIS SUBMARINE TOUR HERE! ☑️

14) Visit the Aruba Aloe Vera Farm.

At the beginning of the 20th century, Aruba emerged as the leading producer and exporter of aloe vera.

This amazing plant is known for it’s incredible skin healing properties, sunburn care, and skincare.

The Aruba Aloe factory in Hato is the oldest aloe company in the world. Take a factory tour to see how the plants are processed and tour the 150 acre plantation.

There is also a museum where you can learn more about the history of aloe on Aruba. Bonus, you can stock up on organic aloe skincare and products in the Aruba Aloe factory shop on site.

Learn more about the Aruba Aloe factory here.

15) Ride the Oranjestad Trolley.

The Oranjestad Trolley is a fun mode of transportation in Aruba.

The trolley is a free service that runs through Oranjestad, the colorful tourist area which many visitors choose as their base. It makes six stops at popular monuments and museums along the route, as well as at the key shopping areas.

The trolley also links the cruise ship terminal to the center of town, so this is a great option for cruise ship passengers as well.

Note that the open-air shuttle can get busy during peak hours and days. There may be lines to board if you arrive at the same time as a cruise ship.

Pro Tip: For more information on how to get around Aruba, check out this Aruba transportation guide.

16) Tour the Aruba Desalination Plant.

I know this may sound like one of the more strange, unique thing to do in Aruba, but I promise it is actually fascinating!

When you visit the W.E.B. plant, you will learn about the in depth reverse osmosis process that Aruba uses to desalinate sea water and make it potable.

While this may not be for everyone, you can’t deny that it’s an interesting process. If you would like to learn a bit more about the process, check out my guide on is the water in Aruba safe? And, to plan a tour, contact the plant directly at +297 582 4700.

17) Check out the San Nicolas street art.

After Oranjestad, the next largest town in Aruba is San Nicolas. San Nicolas is known for its colorful street murals, Afro-Caribbean culture, and its vibrant nightlife.

There are over 40 murals found across San Nicolas, and exploring the alleyways and corners was one of my favorite fun things to do in Aruba. The murals convey themes ranging from political sentiments, nature, optical illusions, and more.

There are also many restaurants and bars to enjoy, as well as a large shopping district, historical monuments, and more.

18) Go on a happy hour sunset cruise.

End a busy day exploring Aruba with a beautiful sunset cruise. Enjoy happy hour from out at sea on this Happy Hour Sunset Cruise!

The comfortable catamaran offers lounge seats with a sea view and soft cushions for comfort. Onboard, the crew delivers cocktails, snacks, tropical fruit, and fresh baked bread.

As you sail along the coast, you can enjoy the serene beauty of the Caribbean Sea and the changing hues of the water from aqua blue to nightfall. Does it get any better than this?

☑️ BOOK YOUR HAPPY HOUR SUNSET CRUISE HERE! ☑️

19) Visit the Alto Vista Chapel.

The cute, yellow Alto Vista Chapel was founded in 1952 and was built on the site of the first Catholic church on the island.

The small chapel, also referred to as the Pilgrim’s Chapel, has some of the best ocean views.

As you walk o the entrance of the chapel, you will notice the stations of the cross laid out on the way. It’s a small, beautiful, historical spot that is great for a short visit.

20) Visit the California Lighthouse.

This iconic lighthouse is an Aruba must see.

Located near Arashi Beach, on the Northwestern coast, the California Lighthouse is one of the most most well known landmarks on Aruba.

I always wondered how it had gotten its name, and I quickly learned that its from a large California steamer that shipwrecked here long before.

This is one of the best places to get a 360 degree view of the surrounding landscape.

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21) Go on an Aqua Donut private boat ride.

I was visiting Aruba as a solo female, so I have yet to enjoy this activity. But if you are traveling with a group or your family, this would be a fun Aruba attraction! It is truly one of the most unique things to do in Aruba to date.

Float in the turquoise waters of Aruba aboard a unique circular boat made of high-end fiberglass. This round vessel effortlessly glides over the water, kind of like a motorized inner tube.

During your ride, you can jump in the water all you want or relax under the boat’s sun umbrella. No boat license is required to rent this boat, but you will be briefed no how to steer and drive the boat.

The donut can accommodate up to 10 people for between two to eight hours. Additionally, it comes equipped with a waterproof portable Bluetooth speaker, making it ideal for group outings and parties!

☑️ BOOK YOUR PRIVATE AQUA DONUT HERE! ☑️

22) Take an offroad adventure to Tres Trapi.

This offroad adventure tour takes you to the Casibari Rock Formation, where you can climb to the top of the rock for pictures and views. Continue to the Natural Bridge and Ayo rock formations, too.

Next comes the Natural Bridge and then the Cave Pool, where you can enjoy cliff jumping if water conditions allow.

At Tres Trapi, you’ll enjoy snorkeling at the locals swimming spot, that not too many tourists get to visit.

It’s one of the best things to do in Aruba if you like nature and adventure.

☑️ BOOK YOUR OFFROAD ADVENTURE TO TRES TRAPI HERE!☑️

23. Watch a sunrise and sunset on the same day.

Even if you are a heavy sleeper, I would urge you to drag yourself out of bed for at least one Aruban sunrise!

One of the most unique things to do in Aruba hands down is to explore the rugged eastern coast and find secluded spots for sunrise – and then, for sunset, station yourself on the western side of the island.

Again, since it is roughly 6 miles wide, the island is easy to cross at any time of day!

On the east you will see fiery orange skies brightening over the sheer cliffs and rough seas. On the west you will see calm and serene cotton candy skies dipping down below the shores.

It’s incredible that each side has such a vastly different feel. And it’s not many places that you can see the sunset and sunrise right over the blue ocean in one day.

Final Thoughts: Unique Things To Do in Aruba

Aruba is one of my favorite islands to visit as a solo female. In fact, it is one of my favorite islands, period.

Each of these unique things to do in Aruba offer something completely different than another. Every type of tourist will be able to find at least one thing of interest on this list.

From adventurous things to do in Aruba, to unusual things to do in Aruba, to non-touristy things to do in Aruba – it is all here.

Whether its snorkeling or boating or ATVing or sightseeing, Aruba is one special place!

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