Arikok National Park
Region: eastern island
nature
Protected area covering about 20% of island area with desolate sandstone plateaus, caves, and natural pools
Tourism in Aruba
Explore notable sights and destinations in this country
Tourist attractions
Eagle Beach
Region: northwest coast
nature
Selected as world's top beach for pure white sand and fofoti tree scenery
Palm Beach
Region: northwest coast
resort
Nightlife center with high-rise hotels and shopping malls
California Lighthouse
Region: northern tip
historical architecture
Built in 1916, popular as a sunset viewing spot
Natural Pool (Conchi)
Region: within Arikok National Park
nature
Natural seawater pool surrounded by lava rocks
Alto Vista Chapel
Region: north coast
religious architecture
Mission chapel built in 1750, endpoint of pilgrimage route
Natural Bridge ruins
Region: northeast coast
nature
Collapsed in 2005, but remains are an excellent photo spot
Butterfly Farm
Region: near Palm Beach
experience facility
Observe butterflies from around the world in tropical greenhouse
Antilla Shipwreck
Region: Malmok Bay
diving
Popular point with intact 121m German cargo ship from World War II
Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins
Region: north coast
industrial heritage
Stone smelter ruins telling story of 19th-century gold rush
Donkey Sanctuary
Region: Santa Cruz
conservation facility
Protect and interact with island's endemic donkeys
De Palm Island
Region: offshore south coast
resort
Day-trip-only artificial beach, popular for snorkeling and water slides
San Nicolas Street Art
Region: San Nicolas, southern tip of island
culture
Art district with colorful murals decorating entire town
Bubali Wetland Bird Sanctuary
Region: north of Oranjestad
nature
Freshwater lagoon for observing migratory birds and flamingos
Hooiberg (Mount Hooiberg)
Region: central island
nature
Volcanic hill at 165m elevation with 360-degree panorama
Suggested itineraries
3-day Beach & City Short Trip
Duration (days): 3
Highlights: Eagle Beach, Oranjestad streetcar, night market
For short-term travelers - world-class white sand beaches during day, capital exploration and casino in evening
5-day Nature & Adventure
Duration (days): 5
Highlights: Arikok National Park jeep tour, natural pool, Antilla shipwreck diving
Mid-term plan enjoying off-road and underwater exploration, tasting local cuisine at local restaurants
7-day Complete Island Tour Relaxing Stay
Duration (days): 7
Highlights: all major beaches, Hi-Winds competition viewing, San Nicolas art walk, aloe factory tour
Week-long stay covering resort and local culture, freely touring by rental car
Travel tips
- Island transportation is convenient by bus or rental car; note right-hand traffic
- Tap water is drinkable, with plastic bottle reduction recommended for environmental protection
- Sunlight and UV rays are intense; SPF50+ sunscreen essential
- School vacation period (June-August) is crowded with Western tourists and prices rise
- US dollars accepted almost everywhere, change often returned in florins
- Power outlets are mixed A, B, F types; both 127V and 220V voltages exist
- Few mosquitoes, but thick-soled shoes are safe in areas with many cacti and rocks
- Tips are typically 10-15% at restaurants, 10% for taxis
- Casinos are 21+, photography prohibited
- Choose reef-safe sunscreen for coral protection
- Public Wi-Fi is plentiful, but VPN use improves security
- Island has good security, but avoid unpopulated beaches at night
- Even in rainy season, squalls are brief; lightweight rain jacket sufficient
- Most stores accept credit cards
- Shopping is not duty-free but relatively affordable with no sales tax