As one of the most revisited destinations in the Caribbean, the One happy island of Aruba offers visitors an unparalleled experience. Beyond its pristine, world-famous beaches, Aruba boasts rugged and desert-like terrain, 90+ nationalities and culinary influences. Enjoy lively nightlife at casinos, beach bars and evening events including the weekly Carnival-style Carubbian Festival, along with hidden gems such as Conchi—Aruba's secluded natural pool— and ancient Guadirikiri and Fontein Caves.
This amazing nature preserve spreads over approximately twenty percent of Aruba's land mass. It is the Caribbean's second largest national park and is perfect for an invigorating hike or bike ride. Reflective of the island's arid landscape, the park offers dramatic oceanside cliffs, deep caves with indigenous drawings, rough hills of volcanic lava formations and the famed natural pools. Rent a jeep and discover it for yourself!
The quaint capital of Oranjestad – with its pastel-painted buildings and quaint Dutch charm, is full of great shops, restored landmark buildings and great restaurants.
After a condensed yet comprehensive class, you'll be ready to tandem skydive above Aruba! You'll be safely harnessed on to an experienced instructor as you freefall for the most thrilling half-minute of your life, then breathe a sigh of elation as you float amongst the clouds for 5 minutes or so and enjoy the heavens around you.
The northern coast of Aruba houses most of the larger event venues, perfect for holding exclusive functions such as reunions, special events or conferences. If you're planning an intimate celebration such as a wedding, an idyllic beachfront restaurant on the most popular south coast may just do the trick.
There are plenty of highly recommended beachfront restaurants dotted throughout Aruba's north-western coast line. Head slightly south, in Oranjestad and you'll find more great dining options. Here in Aruba's capital, you'll also note the variety of nightlife options from casual local pubs and taverns to posh nightclubs and lounges to high rolling casinos. Aruba truly has it all!
Aruba is recognized as one of the top areas for wreck diving. The most famous and largest site by far is the wreck of the Antilla, a 400-foot cargo ship that sunk shortly after WWII broke out. The coral reefs off of Aruba's coast are nicely preserved and the afternoon it takes to acquire your beginner's certification is well worth it when you consider the incredible underwater world that awaits.
Thanks to the island's consistent trade winds, you're in for nothing but outstanding sailing, windsurfing and kite boarding on top of these magnificent azure waters. Given the conditions, it comes as no surprise that every summer Aruba plays host to an international windsurfing and kite boarding competition that along with exciting racing brings plenty of great action and entertainment
Climb atop the famous Aruban landmark for the best views of the island from every angle. The spectacular sunrises and sunsets at this height will be among the most beautiful you'll ever see.
All the beaches in Aruba boast powdery white sand and comfortable windy conditions, so whichever sandy haven is closest to you will be great. A few stand-outs though have to be Baby Beach, a crescent-shaped slice of white sand that sits in its very own lagoon at the southern tip of the island; Druif Beach, less visited than some of the other beaches, offers excellent swimming conditions; and beautiful Palm Beach, home to many of the island's resorts, there is great swimming and snorkeling here, along with a number of fantastic little beach bars when you need a break from the sun.