Like you needed another reason to plan on visting Aruba—but if you do, here are 5 that are hard to argue with! Disclosure: this post may include affiliate links that help me earn a commission if you click and make a purchase. I am so grateful for your support!
Top 5 Reasons to Visit Aruba
- One of the world’s best beaches- Eagle Beach
- Tropical Paradise with all the European/American comforts
- Lots of adventure and activities for active people.
- Great food & Entertainment
- Everyone speaks English
For an island Aruba has plenty to do for the adventure lover. Here are a few to get you started.
- Rent a Jeep or 4 wheeler and explore the island yourself.
- Go scuba diving- there isn’t a ton to see here in terms of reefs, but there are some cool wrecks scattered around the island
- Spend the day on a pirate ship or catamaran snorkeling and sailing. Jolly Pirates.
- Rent a paddleboard or a bicycle and head down the coast.
- Charter a boat and have the Driftwood cook your fresh caught dinner. Driftwood
Arikok National Park and the Caves – Almost a fourth of the island is taken up by Arikok National Park a wildlife preserve that is home to many desert species. As well as two large caves which are home to a plethora of bats. I managed not to scare any but I was nervous of having a horror movie bat surprise at any minute.
We explored the park and Western side of the island by ATV. After leaving the park one of the main things to see are the wishing rocks at the old fort. (photo at top of page)
Then we headed to see the Natural Bridge, a natural rock outcropping that had been eroded by the sea. Unfortunately this landmark had just recently collapsed, but it is still a beauty to look at.
Natural Pool – I had heard about a local spot called the Natural Pools, unreachable except by ATV or horseback, which is right up my adventure alley. The pool itself is an area where the sea has carved out a circular area of rock off the shore that appears to look like a hot tub when seas are low. Getting into the pool can de down right dangerous, like when we tried to go. You have to clambour over jagged rocks and fight the tide to swim to the pool. Either way it will be an adventure you soon won’t forget.
We chose to get there via horseback which made the exciting experience even better. Running a horse through the sandy beaches on the journey to the pool gives you a sense of real independence. Rancho Daimara is a great ranch to use and the oldest in Aruba.
Horseback riding with Rancho Diamara in Aruba
Places to Eat
If you have done your due diligence and saved up some extra cash for your trip to Aruba you will be pleased with the good selection of delicious but pricey restaurants. Here are a few you shouldn’t miss.
Flying FishBone – Dine on the beach with your toes in the sand. Romantic with fresh and delicious seafood, just watch out for the camera flashes as the sun sets and don’t forget your camera.
El Gaucho – If you like steak, this traditional Argentine grill not only has some of the best steaks I have ever had but fantastic service.
Places to Stay
The main town area has a ton of name brand hotels like Marriott and Holiday Inn. Looking for a quieter experience however we chose to stay at the Divi Dutch Village across from the world famous Eagle Beach. You can book all inclusive stays or if you’re like us, do the à la carte version, and head to the grocery store for breakfast items.
Nice to see a post on Aruba that doesn’t just talk about flamingos – for a change!