Discover Aruba Your Way: Insider Tips for Foodies, Adventure Seekers, Artists, and More
Aruba blends pristine white-sand beaches and turquoise waters with the rugged, arid landscapes of Arikok National Park. Like its residents, the island fuses diverse cultures and terrains into a vibrant paradise.
Home to 96 nationalities on the 'One Happy Island,' many locals speak four languages by age 12: Dutch, Spanish, English, and Papiamento. This cultural mosaic supports thriving cacti alongside palm trees, offering endless activities across its 75-mile length.
For Foodies
Aruba's Dutch, Spanish, English, and American influences create innovative cuisine. Try Zeerovers, a waterfront spot with docks for fresh catches. Savor whole shrimp, plantains, and fries—eat with your hands amid cool drinks.
For elegance, visit Papiamento Restaurant in a 100-year-old cunucu (farmhouse) surrounded by lush greenery and a sparkling pool. Indulge in stone-grilled lamb chops, champagne seafood casserole, or the cheese-rich Keshi Yena, a beloved Aruban classic.
The Local Store merges American favorites like burgers and wings with Aruba's craft beers for a perfect fusion.
For Adventure Seekers
Experience heart-pounding ATV rides along Aruba's northern coast in a rugged Subaru or at the wheel yourself. Explore iconic sites with professional guides tailored to all skill levels.
For hiking enthusiasts, tackle Hooiberg (Haystack) Mountain's 587 steps to 541 feet. Climb early for cooler temps, stay hydrated, and enjoy the halfway gazebo views.
For Artists
San Nicolas, the 'Sunrise City,' transforms streets into open-air galleries with vibrant murals on libraries, businesses, and benches—including Bordalo II's massive metal iguana sculpture.
Get hands-on at The Cosecha Creative Center in San Nicolas. Join workshops, book private classes with local artists, or shop for handmade art, jewelry, and clothing.
For Relaxation Seekers
Unwind on Aruba's stunning beaches. Eagle Beach offers postcard-perfect white sands, clear calm waters, and divi-divi trees.
Escape crowds at snorkel-friendly Arashi Beach or unique Black Stone Beach in Arikok National Park—ideal for picnics, not swimming.
For sea serenity, book a Renaissance Marina catamaran tour from Oranjestad with snacks, drinks, and snorkeling.
For Water Lovers
Dive into Aruba's waters: Explore the Antilla Wreck, the Caribbean's largest shipwreck at 60 feet deep, 500 yards offshore—a 1939 German freighter.
Other sites include Jane C ship and Renaissance Island planes amid protected reefs teeming with marine life at Mangel Halto, Seagrass Fields, and Punta Basora.
Harness trade winds for kitesurfing or windsurfing at Fisherman Huts (Hadicurari Beach) for lessons, then watch pros at Boca Grandi.
Thrill at Conchi Natural Pool in Arikok: Access via ladder and rocks (with a guide), then jump in for a refreshing swim.
For History Buffs
Aruba's past lives in its landscapes. Sacred Ayo rock formations sheltered indigenous Caiquetios from Spanish invaders.
Bushiribana gold mine ruins evoke the 19th-century rush amid stunning vistas. Nearby, stack rocks on the beach—a fisherman's tradition turned good-luck ritual.
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Alicia Johnson visited Aruba with support from the Aruba Tourism Board. Lonely Planet contributors do not accept freebies for positive coverage.
