Aruba has much to offer when it comes to things to do and discover. We’ve put together a list of some of the most unique and best experiences that we wouldn’t want you to miss during your stay in Aruba, in other words, you must add these to your “Aruba Bucket List”!

For all the underwater enthusiasts out there, scuba diving in Aruba is one of the most unforgettable experiences that you simply cannot miss out on. The island is known for its numerous wreck dive sites that are easily accessible by boat (some even rather close to shore), perfect for exploring the vibrant array of coral and marine life, including sting rays, moray eels, barracuda, lobsters, and other exotic sea life. If you’re lucky enough (or know where to go) you can even witness sleeping nurse sharks and dive along the beautiful and gentle sea turtles.

To discover Aruba’s best dive sites and get more details on each site, browse our dive sites section. Here you will be able to view useful information and highlights on each dive site to better prepare for your dive experience, such as the recommended diver skill level required, depth range of the site, nearby location, marine life, and more. In addition, you can view a map of scuba diving locations. Want to sign up for a diving course or join a dive tour? Contact Red Sail Aruba.

If you aren’t qualified to go diving, or, if it seems a bit too extreme for you, opt for snorkeling instead. There are plenty of amazing beaches to head to for a fun and relaxing day of snorkeling. Don’t want to head out on your own? You can also book a sail and snorkel cruise or an island tour with a snorkel stop.

This very well may be one of the coolest hidden sights on the island. Without asking a local to show you where it lies, it’s practically impossible to find! And sorry, we are not going to fully give away its location, because that would leave less of a fun adventure for you when the time comes to find it on your own. To point you in the right direction, it’s located just past Baby Beach (across the road) in the middle of a bunch of cacti, rocks and rubble (what? That wasn’t helpful enough?) One more hint: it is known as the Mangel Cora Well Tunnel. When in doubt just stop to ask a local!

Aruba’s natural beauty is unmatched and one of the best places to experience it is in Arikok National Park. Our island’s national park covers about 20% of the island and is the perfect place to explore the diverse natural beauty that Aruba has to offer. Simply purchase a day pass at the park’s visitors center and be on your way. Choose from one of the many trails and immerse yourself in Aruba’s beautiful nature. There are plenty of natural sites and attractions (caves, gold ruins, wild beaches, hiking trails, natural pools, and more) on the wild east coast of the island. It is sure to leave you fascinated by just how different it is from the other side of the island, which is home to the majority of our island’s resorts and calmer beaches.

Some places in the park that can’t be missed include Natural Pool (Conchi), Fontein Cave and Freshwater Pond, Guadirikiri Cave, Boca Keto, Dos Playa, and Boca Prins. There’s plenty more to discover, view more sights and attractions in Aruba here.

Booking a private yacht for you and your plus one, or for your family and friends, makes for a luxurious and intimate day that is sure to remain in your top vacation memories for a lifetime!

Interested in booking an Aruba yacht charter but not sure where to start? For a professional and luxury experience we recommend booking with Eden Luca Yacht Charters. They offer exclusive and tailor-made trips designed to your liking. With your very own captain and mate on board, your trip will include everything you need from beverages to delicious bites, a sound system, snorkel equipment, sun chill floating mat, paddle board, and more. You will also have the option to request for additional services and upgrades such as decorations or specific food and drink requests to make your special day even more memorable!

Get more details on Eden Luca Yacht Charters or book your trip now.

Hit the nearest grocery store, stock up on your favorite food and drinks, pack your cooler, and head to the beach! Not just any beach, Eagle Beach, one of the most sought-after beaches in the world and No. 1 in the Caribbean (a bit of a humble brag). Don’t forget to pack a big blanket or towel, a fun game, plenty of water, your favorite snacks, a beach-proof speaker for some tunes, and some reef-safe sunscreen. There’s no better place to watch Aruba’s breathtaking sunset, be sure to stay for the after-sunset glow and into the night for some peaceful and romantic star gazing.

Too lazy to shop and eager to get to the beach? There are now local picnic companies you can order from that will deliver baskets with goodies to your desired location. If picnics aren’t exactly your thing and you prefer dining at a restaurant, consider one of these beachfront restaurants.

View the island from a different perspective and discover the extraordinary underwater life of Aruba. Grab your snorkel gear, pack a cooler and visit one of the beaches perfect for spotting sea turtles, such as Malmok, Tres Trapi or Boca Catalina.

Remember to always admire their beauty from a distance and to never touch any marine life. If you prefer a guide, you can join one of the many snorkeling tours or catamaran cruises offered on the island.

Head to the Fontein Cave which is located in the National Park near Boca Prins. The cave is absolutely worth venturing in, as it is the only cave that has drawings of Arawak Indians on the ceilings, providing a real sense of island history to this cave. The brownish-red paintings were left by Caquetios and graffiti was imprinted by European settlers.

After visiting the cave make your way further down the dirt path and you will find the only natural freshwater pond on the island, if you dare, take your shoes off, stick your feet in, and get yourself a little fish pedicure!

The Natural Pool (also known as Conchi) is protected from the rough sea by surrounding rocks and is located in the National Park. This unique formation of rocks creates a peaceful place and is also known as Aruba’s hidden pool. For thrill-seekers, this place is excellent for taking a dip to cool off and a perfect place to capture natural beauty with your camera. It is not recommended to swim in the pool when the waves are too high as it can be dangerous, please follow the advisories on display by the national park rangers. To get to the natural pool a jeep is needed, or if you are up for a long, intense hike, walking is an alternative – prepare for rough grounds ahead!

In addition to Conchi (The Natural Pool), we also have another natural pool on our list for you to check off.  We like to consider this natural pool as the “baby natural pool”, officially known as the Small Cave Pool. It may be smaller in size, but finding and exploring this natural sight is filled with plenty of thrill and adventure. Best of all, you can reach this destination by car, just make your way to the Bushiribana Gold Mine Ruins and head straight to the coast’s edge. PS – Take caution, as you will need to climb down a steep ladder in order to reach the pool, this activity is not recommended for everyone, proper shoes, and a guide are recommended.

Come witness for yourself why San Nicolas has quickly transformed into the street art capital of the Caribbean. Thanks to the vision of Tito Bolivar, the founder of ArtisA, and the many local and international artists, art influencers, and cultural activists, Aruba is now more colorful and vibrant than ever… making for the perfect destination for those seeking artistic beauty!

New murals are added every year so make your way to Sunrise City and don’t forget your camera to snap some shots. On the way back to your resort or vacation rental stop by a restaurant for local food and vibes, we suggest checking out O’Niel Caribbean Kitchen, Neighba, Zeerovers, Marina Pirata, or Fish House Island Bar & Restaurant.

Take advantage of Aruba’s perfect water and wind conditions.  Windsurfing or kite surfing with Aruba Active Vacations is an experience you do not want to miss out on!  It’s wild and extremely fun, and after getting up from the water for the first time you are hooked and sure to come back for more. There is no other place to try it with than Aruba Active Vacations, they are the longest-running kiteboarding school in Aruba.  With their great experience and guidance, you will be in the best hands.

Aruba’s ‘Carnaval’ season is simply our favorite time of year. It’s not just a one-day, one-week or even one-month event. During January, February and sometimes even into March, the entire island lives and breathes Carnival. The Carnival schedule is jam-packed with weekly events, leaving little excuse to miss out. It continues with Jump-ins, King and Queen Elections, Calypso, festivals, contests, live music, celebrations for children, parties, and of course the most popular, parades.

This year our island is celebrating 70 years of Carnival! If you are lucky enough to be on the island don’t miss out on one of Aruba’s most treasured traditions. Get ready, it’s ‘Carnaval’ time, time to celebrate in the streets! View the 2024 Carnival schedule here so you don’t miss out on any of the big parades and fun.

One of Aruba’s natural beauty standouts is without a doubt, the mangroves near the Spanish Lagoon, also known as the Spaans Lagoen. The lagoon starts on the coast near Mangel Halto and ends close to the Balashi Gold Ruins further inland.

Mangel Halto and the Spanish Lagoon area is a lush and diverse area of land and water allowing for plenty of fun activities, and most of all, escaping the crowds and enjoying some peace and quiet. You can go snorkeling at the reef nearby, or choose to go kayaking or paddleboarding in the waterways of the mangroves. You will find it is the perfect place to get lost in nature and see a completely different side of Aruba.

As you venture around the island, you’re bound to come across wildlife on a daily basis with all of the iguanas, small lizards, goats, colorful birds, adorable little shocos (our island’s national symbol, Aruba’s burrowing owl, learn more here), and wild donkeys hanging around.

There are also plenty of venues to visit to meet and hang out with animals, such as the Donkey Sanctuary, The Butterfly Farm, Ostrich Farm, and Philip’s Animal Garden. When exploring the island, please remember to do so cautiously, as much of our wildlife is difficult to spot with the naked eye, in particular our local burrowing owls, the Shoco.

No Aruba adventure would be complete without indulging in its culinary delights. Discover the flavors of Aruban cuisine, where the Dutch, South American, European, Indonesian, and other Caribbean islands’ influences blend together. Sample local dishes such as Keshi Yena, Cabrito Stoba, Keri Keri, Pan Bati, and Funchi, a cornmeal-based side dish (foodie tip: ask for a side of Funchi Fries with melted cheese on top). Also, don’t forget to ask for the fresh catch of the day, we recommend trying Red Snapper, Wahoo or Mahi Mahi. Visit local eateries and snack huts to savor traditional snacks like Pastechi, a delicious fried breakfast pastry filled with various savory fillings. Our foodie tip to you, don’t leave the island without trying a Pastechi. You’ll find locals lined up at neighborhood snack places for a quick breakfast bite on the go (and for good reason).

Many of these snack spots also serve plenty of other fried delights that are most definitely worth trying, such as empanadas, johnny cakes, arepas, salchipapa, krokets, and more. If you’re more into the sweet stuff, another must-try food experience on the island, thanks to the Dutch influence, is Dutch pancakes and poffertjes. As you can see Aruba is a melting pot not only when it comes to locals but also in the culinary world!

It is most definitely worth seeking out the more under-the-radar casual dining spots located throughout different areas of the island. There are a number of snack huts, restaurants without all the thrills and frills, and food trucks galore that are sure to impress all of your foodie senses and cravings. For a true taste of the island’s diverse flavors, here are a selection of places we recommend trying so that you can experience a sample of our local Aruba eats:

Driftwood, Marina Pirata, O’Niel Caribbean Kitchen, Chupa Dede Snacks, Lings Restaurant, Fish House Island Bar & Restaurant, Nos Local Snack Truck, Candela Food Truck, Happy Day Snack, Coco Plum, Don Pastechi Factory, Flor de Oriente, Kulture Cafe, Kamini’s Kitchen, Grote Berg Snack, The Dutch Pancake House, and Neighba.

Discover more restaurants and dining options in Aruba.

Explore more things to do and see in Aruba.

Most travelers flock to warmer destinations in the winter to escape the cold, or during the summer when family vacations are in full swing. But if you have the flexibility, we highly recommend sneaking in a getaway during the fall—especially to Aruba! Not convinced? Check out our list below to see why fall is the perfect time to visit our happy little island!

Visiting Aruba before high season means you’re likely to take advantage of lower airfare and accommodation rates. The high season officially kicks off in December and ends in mid-April. Make sure to book your trip prior to mid-November to be on the safe side.

Browse resorts, smaller apartment hotels, boutique hotels, all-inclusive resorts, vacation rentals, and timeshares in Aruba.

Aruba lies outside the hurricane belt, so while many travelers avoid visiting the Caribbean during hurricane season (June – November), Aruba is still safe to visit! While our island does tend to see more rainfall beginning in October and November (and lasting through January), if showers occur, they are typically brief and the sunshine returns soon thereafter (so don’t you worry). In the event of a nearby passing tropical storm, rainfall can be heavier and last longer than usual. In turn, the island becomes greener than ever, we suggest visiting Arikok National Park to soak up all of the island’s diverse natural beauty! There are plenty of natural sights and attractions (caves, gold ruins, wild beaches, hiking trails, natural pools, and more) on the wild east coast of the island. It is sure to leave you fascinated by just how different it is from the other side of the island, which is home to the majority of our island’s resorts and calmer beaches. Some of our favorite places to explore include the Natural Pool (Conchi), Small Cave Pool, and the Fontein Cave and Freshwater Pond. Browse more here.

View more information on weather in Aruba and discover some of the island’s most beautiful natural attractions to explore.

Autentico Aruba Culinary Festival

This October, get ready for the debut of the Autentico Culinary Festival in Aruba! This exciting new event will showcase the island’s vibrant and diverse culinary scene, giving you the perfect opportunity to indulge all your senses.

It will include a special restaurant week from October 7-13 and a two-day food festival on October 12th and 13th. Expect a spectacular restaurant lineup, bartender brawl, exclusive culinary experiences to join, an iron chef competition, live music, and more. Get more details here as they become available.

Aruba Open Beach Tennis Championships 

The Aruba Open Beach Tennis Championships is back, continuing its legacy as a global leader in beach tennis for over a decade. As one of the premier tournaments worldwide, the Aruba Open attracts more than 1,200 participants from 40+ countries each year, blending the excitement of sports with a vibrant festival atmosphere.

If you love the beach, live music, great food and drinks, and world-class beach tennis, this event is a must-see.

Players from across the globe will compete in various categories, including singles, mixed doubles, the Nations and Team Cup, youth and masters divisions, and doubles tournaments. The grand finale weekend is the highlight of the 8-day event, with over 5,000 spectators at Bushiri Beach watching intense matches for the coveted title. The electrifying atmosphere, fueled by the crowd’s energy, creates an experience like no other. Mark your calendars for November 10th – 17th and tune into the Beach Tennis Aruba Facebook page for event updates!

Island Fest

Island Festival in Aruba has made its long anticipated return, bringing vibrant street activities to the beautiful streets of San Nicolas! Island Fest takes place the last Wednesday of every month and is a unique event that also allows for visitors to mingle with the locals and experience a taste of the island life.

The festival includes plenty of delicious local bites, refreshing drinks, live bands, historical dance shows, and more. It’s offers a charming and entertaining atmosphere with performances that delve into Aruba’s history and heritage. Get more event details here.

In addition to lower rates, before high season begins, you will also be able to take advantage of perhaps the best treat of all, less crowds and more open space to explore the island! Enjoy more wide open space on each of the breathtaking beaches of the island, room to explore the island’s best sights & attractions without bumping into crowds, and you will have an all-around easier time making last-minute restaurant and tour & activity reservations. Keep in mind the island tends to start getting busier towards the end of November and the beginning of December.

Browse Aruba’s beaches, our Beach Guide and tours & activities.

Often in the months of September and October, just before the real rainy season hits, the island experiences lighter tradewinds, calm water conditions, and warmer water temperatures, all of which help to make for perfect snorkeling and diving conditions. Take this time to visit some of Aruba’s best beaches for snorkeling and explore the beautiful underwater marine life. Tip: Visit Malmok and Tres Trapi in the early morning hours to swim with the majestic sea turtles! Please remember to always admire their beauty from a distance and to never touch any marine life.

If you prefer a guide, you can join one of the many snorkeling tours or catamaran cruises offered on the island.

View more things to do in Aruba and start your vacation planning with us.

Looking for the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and unique experiences for your Aruba vacation? From cruising the crystal-clear waters on a private yacht to savoring unforgettable dining moments and exploring Aruba’s natural wonders, this island paradise offers endless ways to create lasting memories. Discover the best things to do in Aruba for an extraordinary getaway!

Booking a private yacht for you and your plus one, or for your family and friends, makes for a luxurious and intimate day that is sure to remain in your top vacation memories for a lifetime!

Interested in booking an Aruba yacht charter but not sure where to start? For a professional and luxury experience we recommend booking with Eden Luca Yacht Charters. They offer exclusive and tailor-made trips designed to your liking. With your very own captain and mate on board, your trip will include everything you need from beverages to delicious bites, a sound system, snorkel equipment, sun chill floating mat, paddle board, and more. You will also have the option to request for additional services and upgrades such as decorations or specific food and drink requests to make your special day even more memorable!

Get more details on Eden Luca Yacht Charters or book your trip now.

While there are plenty of exceptional restaurants in Aruba to choose from, we also suggest booking something a bit out of the ordinary to make your dining experience a special vacation memory to last a lifetime. If you’re seeking to try something new and different, we suggest considering the following unique dining experiences:

Pirate Dinner at Hilton Aruba

An arrrghhh perfect dining experience for the entire family! Your group will feel like rulers of the seven seas as you indulge in a Caribbean family-style pirate dining experience with flavors from the grill and toes in the sand. This takes place on the shores of Palm Beach at Hilton Aruba.

Hilton Aruba’s Sunset Concierge Private Dining Experience

This exclusive experience allows you to choose your very own unique and private dining location. Locations on the resort include but are not limited to a spot tucked away in the lush tropical gardens with the sounds of a nearby waterfall, on the beach with your toes in the sand, or on a bridge situated over the alluring pool!

Dinner Under the Stars at Renaissance Private Island

Take a boat trip to a private secluded island (yes an island away from an island) with your lover or bestie, and get lost in the unforgettable, magical island embrace. Enjoy live music, a welcome cocktail, and a culinary 4-course adventure for two.

Tranquilo’s Romantic Dinner Sail for Two

How about having your very own private sailing yacht as your restaurant? Just you, your lucky plus one, and an up-close view of pure sunset magic glistening over Aruba’s mesmerizing blues. PS – there is a small crew on board, but they will stay out of your way and you won’t even know they are there! Except for when they serve you your mouth-watering dish of course, such as a juicy surf and turf or their tastebud tantalizing ceviche. Their menu changes based on the Captain’s mood of the day, so be sure to contact them for specific details!

Chef’s Table Style restaurants are becoming more and more popular on the island, and for good reason. While there are now just over a handful to choose from, each has their very own spin on the concept with unique culinary influences.

Booking a chef’s table-style dinner is the perfect way to celebrate something special, like a birthday or anniversary, leaving you with an unforgettable foodie experience to take home. A few to consider include Infini, KOAL Aruba, and Ever Restaurant Aruba.

Lastly, an island escape wouldn’t be complete without a dreamy, picturesque beach or waterfront dinner. We recommend considering the following: Barefoot, Elements Restaurant, Water’s Edge Restaurant, Pelican’s Nest, Faro Blanco, Flying Fishbone, Passions on the Beach, West Deck, Aruba Ocean Villas, and Lima Bistro.

There are plenty more mouth-watering restaurants we recommend trying while on the island, browse them here.

There is so much natural beauty on the island to discover and immerse yourself in, and there are so many different ways to do it! Check out our suggestions below:

Spend the night stargazing

While on vacation in Aruba calls for plenty of beach days and fun under the sun, however there is also beauty to witness after the sun goes down. Have you ever looked up at the night sky and witnessed all of the starry magic up above? After dinner, before calling it a night, gather the family or that special someone, and head to a nearby quiet location (away from the hustle and bustle, don’t forget your phone with a flashlight), take a seat and gaze up above at the beautiful night sky. Pay close attention, you’re likely to see a shooting star, so don’t forget to make a wish! Some locations to try: the sand dunes near the California Lighthouse, a quiet spot on Eagle Beach, near the big Red Anchor in Sero Colorado, Arashi Beach, and plenty more!

Gone hiking in paradise

From relaxing walks on the beach to hiking the island’s natural trails, you have plenty of options and they all include breathtaking views! Go on a guided tour or take your adventurous partner in crime and get to stepping! We recommend the following hiking spots: Hooiberg, Alto Vista Chapel area and Arikok National Park.

You may want to start with Aruba’s National Park as it has endless hiking options! Step into the park and make your way to the rugged and beautiful North Coast! As you pass the beautiful green cacti, vegetation, rugged rock formations, herds of goats and approach the coast…you will see the dramatic, darker blue waters clash against the rocks, an impressive sight to see. With many trails and sights to discover there is plenty of hiking, slow-paced walking, and biking to be done here.

Swimming in the sea

It’s time for some refreshing Caribbean blues! View the island from a different perspective and discover the extraordinary underwater life of Aruba.

Grab your snorkel gear and visit one of the many beaches perfect for snorkeling, such as Malmok, Boca Catalina, Arashi, or Mangel Halto. If your accommodation does not offer snorkel equipment, we recommend renting your gear from Adventure Sports Aruba Snorkel, they even offer easy and convenient delivery! Make you snorkel gear reservation here.

What are you waiting for? The inviting clear turquoise water is calling your name! Browse more of Aruba’s breathtaking beaches. If you prefer a guide you can join one of the many snorkeling tours or catamaran cruises offered on the island 

Outdoor picnic for two

Spending your day outdoors in the fresh air and soaking up some sunshine is always a great idea! Hit the nearest grocery store, stock up on your favorite food and drinks, pack your cooler, and head to the beach! There’s nothing like a quiet and relaxing picnic on the beach, try Boca Catalina, Arashi, Eagle Beach, or Mangel Halto. Too lazy to shop and eager to get to the beach? There are now local picnic companies you can order from that will deliver baskets with goodies to your desired location!

Get lost in the mangroves

Head South past the airport and make your way to Pos Chiquito, just before you reach the area of Savaneta, you will find the mangroves located at Mangel Halto beach (by the Spanish Lagoon). Mind you, this is not your typical white sand beach, rather, it is a lush and diverse area of land and water allowing for plenty of fun activities, and most of all, escaping the crowds and immersing yourself in nature! You can go snorkeling at the reef nearby, or choose to go kayaking or paddleboarding in the waterways of the mangroves. You will find it is the perfect place to get lost in nature and see a completely different side to Aruba!

Discover more things to do in Aruba.

No Aruba adventure would be complete without indulging in its culinary delights. Our island is home to over 100 different nationalities. Discover the flavors of Aruban cuisine, where the Dutch, South American, European, Indonesian, and other Caribbean islands’ influences blend together.

Sample local dishes such as Keshi Yena, Cabrito Stoba, Keri Keri, Pan Bati, and Funchi, a cornmeal-based side dish (foodie tip: ask for a side of Funchi Fries with melted cheese on top). Also, don’t forget to ask for the fresh catch of the day, we recommend trying Red Snapper, Wahoo or Mahi Mahi. Visit local eateries and snack huts to savor traditional snacks like Pastechi, a delicious fried breakfast pastry filled with various savory fillings.

From charming hidden gems to upscale fine dining and annual food festivals, there’s truly something to suit every style and satisfy every taste bud. For the latest must-try culinary experiences in Aruba, check out our recommendations below!

Boardwalk Boutique Hotel has recently opened its very own on-property restaurant, The Coco Café. The open-air restaurant is filled with stunning decor and vibrant carribbean colors.

Located in the heart of their historic, lush coconut plantation, it’s a haven of local, tropical goodness. From nutritious comforting dishes and freshly shaken cocktails, fine wine, and delightful coffee, to tasty vegan and gluten-free options. There’s something for everyone to enjoy. It is important to note that Boardwalk Boutique Hotel is an Adult Only hotel, guests for The Coco Café are welcome from 18 years and up. View more restaurant and resort details.

This October get ready to experience the first ever Autentico Culinary Festival to kick off in Aruba! The new food festival will have the island’s diverse and unique culinary scene on full display, offering you the chance to indulge all your senses.

It will include a special restaurant week from October 7-13 and a two-day food festival on October 12th and 13th. Expect a spectacular restaurant lineup, a bartender brawl, an iron chef competition, live music, and more. Get more details here as they become available.

Chef’s Table-Style restaurants are becoming more and more popular on the island, and for good reason. While there are now just over a handful to choose from, each has their very own spin on the concept with unique culinary influences.

Booking a chef’s table-style dinner is the perfect way to celebrate something special, like a birthday or anniversary, leaving you with an unforgettable foodie experience to take home! A few to consider include Infini, KOAL Aruba, and  Ever Restaurant Aruba.

It is also worth seeking out the more under-the-radar casual dining spots located throughout different areas of the island. There are a number of restaurants without all the thrills and frills and food trucks galore that are sure to impress all of your foodie senses and cravings. 

If you’re exploring the South side of the island, we recommend checking out O’Niel Caribbean Kitchen,  Kamini’s Kitchen, Zeerovers, Marina Pirata, and Fish House Island Bar & Restaurant for a true local taste and a relaxing, laid back atmosphere.

Discover more dining options in Aruba.

Planning a trip to Aruba? You’re in for an unforgettable adventure! From vibrant festivals and breathtaking natural beauty to the lively Carnival season and serene cruises along the coast, Aruba offers something for every traveler. Here are four must-do activities to make the most of your island getaway.

When in Aruba, immersing yourself in the island’s vibrant culture is a must, and there’s no better way to do that than by attending one of the many annual festivals. Be sure to check out the new Autentico Aruba Culinary Fest in downtown Oranjestad, where you can savor authentic island flavors. For a local artistic experience, head to San Nicolas for the Aruba Art Fair, or head to one of the biggest weekly happenings, Island Fest, also held in San Nicolas offering a unique glimpse into Aruba’s past and present. These lively events are perfect for getting a true taste of Aruba’s rich culture and traditions!

View more festival details below:

Island Fest

Aruba Art Fair

Autentico Aruba Culinary Fest

While we encourage our visitors to enjoy as many relaxing beach days as possible (how could one resist our soft, white-sand beaches and endless sunshine?), we also hope travelers take the time to veer off the beaten path and experience some true island adventure.

Our island’s national park covers about 20% of the island and is the perfect place to explore the diverse natural beauty that Aruba has to offer. Simply purchase a day pass at the park’s visitors center and be on your way! You can do so by jeep or opt for a more active and environmentally-friendly way and go hiking. There are plenty of natural sites and attractions (caves, gold ruins, wild beaches, hiking trails, natural pools, and more) on the wild east coast of the island. It is sure to leave you fascinated by just how different it is from the other side of the island, which is home to the majority of our island’s resorts and calmer beaches.

Be sure to check out the following sights. Some of our favorite places include the Natural Pool (Conchi), Small Cave Pool, and the Fontein Cave and Freshwater Pond.

Aruba’s ‘Carnaval’ season is our favorite time of year. It’s not just a one-day, one-week or even one-month event. During January and February the entire island lives and breathes Carnival. The Carnival schedule is jam-packed with weekly events, leaving little excuse to miss out. It continues with Jump-ins, King and Queen Elections, Calypso, festivals, contests, live music, celebrations for children, parties, and of course the most popular, parades.

This year our island is celebrating 71 years of Carnival! The fun officially kicks off on January 11th, 2025 and ends with the Grand Parade in Oranjestad on March 2nd.  If you are lucky enough to be on the island don’t miss out on one of Aruba’s most treasured traditions. If you want to plan your trip around Carnival, view the schedule here. Can’t make it this year? No worries, just be sure to plan ahead for the next one!

What better way to spend your day in paradise than by smooth sailing the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean Sea.

Do you want to spend the day lounging on the sun deck sipping a refreshing cocktail? Do the kids want to have a day to remember on the swing rope? Or, perhaps you’re in for a little underwater snorkeling adventure to discover the beautiful marine life? Not your thing? How about a romantic sunset dinner for two? No matter your style, there’s a cruise for that.

Browse and book catamaran and sail cruises in Aruba.

If you’re more in the mood for a relaxing day on the beach, take a day or two for some beach hopping and venture to the different breathtaking beaches across the island, there are plenty to enjoy and each for different reasons!

View more things to do and see in Aruba.

*Main featured photo by Aruba Conservation Foundation