Activities, tours and attractions
Aruba is much more than beaches. Snorkel over shipwrecks, sail along the west coast, explore caves and the rugged north coast, meet rescued donkeys or enjoy the nightlife on Palm Beach. Here is an overview of the best things to do on the island.
On the water
- Watersports – overview of everything on and in the water
- Snorkeling – the best snorkel spots
- Scuba diving – dive sites, wrecks and dive centres
- Sailing & catamaran cruises – snorkel sails and sunset cruises
- More water activities – semi-submarine, clear kayaks, parasailing, jet skis and Sea Trek
- Kitesurfing – steady trade winds for every level
- Windsurfing – world-famous wind at Fisherman's Huts
- Surfing – waves on the north-east coast
- Deep sea fishing – wahoo, mahi-mahi and marlin
- Atlantis Submarine – see the reef without getting wet
- Renaissance Island & Flamingo Beach – the island with the flamingos
Nature and adventure
- Arikok National Park – rugged hills, coastline and the Natural Pool
- Caves of Aruba – Fontein and Quadirikiri caves
- Natural Bridge – the remains of a famous landmark and the Baby Bridge
- Gold Mill Ruins – Bushiribana and Balashi
- Jeep & UTV tours – off-road to the north coast
- Horseback riding – trail rides to the north coast
- Golf – Tierra del Sol and The Links at Divi
- Skydive Aruba – tandem skydiving over Malmok Beach
Animals and wildlife
- Wildlife in Aruba – sea turtles, iguanas and the shoco owl
- The Butterfly Farm – hundreds of butterflies
- Donkey Sanctuary – around 130 rescued donkeys
- Philip's Animal Garden – rescued exotic and farm animals
- Aruba Ostrich Farm – guided tours and feeding
Sights and culture
- California Lighthouse – views from the north-western tip
- Alto Vista Chapel – site of Aruba's first church
- Hooiberg – climb for panoramic views
- Ayo & Casibari rock formations – giant boulders and petroglyphs
- Aruba Aloe Factory & Museum – free guided tour
- Top 10 cultural experiences – museums, art and festivals
Going out
- Nightlife – beach bars, clubs and the party bus
- Balashi beer – Aruba's own beer
- Casinos – gaming at the resorts
- Restaurants – where to eat on the island
Families and cruise visitors
- Aruba with kids – family-friendly activities and tips
- Aruba for cruise visitors – what to do near the cruise port
- Events – Carnival, Hi-Winds and more throughout the year
Tour operators
- De Palm Tours – the island's largest tour operator
- Red Sail Sports – sailing and diving from Palm Beach
Tips
- Aruba only allows reef-safe sunscreen: products with oxybenzone are banned.
- The sun is strong all year round; plan outdoor activities in the morning or late afternoon.
- Arikok National Park charges an entrance fee of about $22 for adults; visitors under 18 enter free.
- Book popular tours and sunset cruises a few days ahead in high season.
Last updated: September 2026.