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When planning our nine-year anniversary trip, we were highly considering Aruba. Then, we got an alert from Scott’s Cheap Flights for round-trip tickets less than $300/person, which made our decision!
We were fully prepared to spend the whole time relaxing on a sunbed and having a chill baecation.
But that changed after we started learning about all the different fun and unique things to do in Aruba!
Since then, we’ve actually been back—this time with 12 of us to celebrate my mom’s 70th birthday. And yes, the island delivered again in a completely different way. Aruba has a way of making every kind of trip feel special.
It’s affectionately known as One Happy Island for a reason—between the beautiful landscape, long list of things to see and do, and how easy it is to get around, you’ll quickly understand the hype.
Whether you’re visiting as a couple, with extended family, or on a solo adventure, you won’t leave the island disappointed.
1. Tour Flamingo Island
This is easily one of the most one-of-a-kind experiences in Aruba!
Aruba Flamingo Island is owned by Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort. Therefore, it is exclusive to their guests.
However, they offer a limited supply of day passes, which include a full meal. The tickets sell out quickly, so I recommend purchasing them in advance. You can do so here.
We were sold on buying this day pass to see flamingos in Aruba until I came across De Palm Island!
2. Flamingos + Activites at De Palm Island
Like the Renaissance’s Flamingo Island, De Palm Island is home to about ten beautiful flamingos, which are free to roam around a specific area. Guests must also wait for a designated time slot to get close to the pink flamingos.
In order to get a designated time slot, you must book premium seating or a private cabana. I have done both. And you can’t go wrong with either option. It honestly depends on the size of your party.
This all-inclusive day trip to the island includes round-trip transportation, unlimited banana boat rides, snorkeling, waterslides (a great kid-friendly activity), all food and beverages, and so much more.
For some reason, I always have low expectations for the food on all-inclusive tours, but to my surprise, the food was also really tasty! In fact, there were two food areas – one buffet with fresh chicken, fish, rice, and veggies, while the other area had hamburgers, hot dogs, and French fries.
Pro tip: If you bring your kiddos, you should pack some reliable kid-friendly ear plugs. No one wants to go to the doctor for an ear infection on vacation!
👉 Book an All-Inclusive De Palm Island Experience 👈
3. Walk the Ocean Floor with a Sea Trek
Not only does De Palm Island have Flamingos, but you can also try an incredible underwater experience called a Sea Trek. The excursion lets you walk on the ocean floor for almost thirty minutes without any diving experience, and it is mind-blowing.
You do have to purchase the Sea Trek as an add-on to this all-inclusive package.
But I can’t stress enough that this was the experience of a lifetime.
Basically, before you enter the ocean, a seventy-pound helmet is placed on your shoulders (Don’t worry– you hardly notice it underwater). Then, you just keep your head upright and breathe regularly as you explore the ocean floor.
There’s even a rail to hold onto and two divers to escort you through the experience.
4. Stay at a Hotel with a Floating Breakfast
Our romantic Aruba resort, The Boardwalk Boutique Hotel, offers the option of a floating breakfast for guests staying in the casita with a private plunge pool.
The greenery of the casita creates a private, romantic atmosphere to enjoy a special trip or honeymoon!
The icing on the cake is the floating breakfast experience they offer through Eduardo’s Beach Shack. The food was fresh, healthy, delicious, and worth every penny!
👉 Get more details on The Boardwalk Boutique Hotel 👈
Read My Detailed Review
5. Rent a Crystal-Clear Kayak Rental
I don’t know what’s more delightful than kayaking in the Caribbean. The water is crystal clear!
We rented crystal-clear kayaks from Island Cabana Aruba, which allowed us to see the ocean floor from the comfort of our kayak. We didn’t see any fish, but it was still breathtaking nonetheless.
Kayaking around the shallow part of the ocean takes only about an hour, making for a wonderful experience (and killer photos). It’s way more affordable than we expected!
6. Swim in a Natural Pool
Affectionately known as “conchi” or “cura di tortuga,” this natural wonder is set in a secluded area of Aruba where rock formations create a tranquil, natural pool. The journey to get here in a regular car isn’t super easy, though, so I always recommend visiting on a Jeep safari.
It’s just a lot less stressful.
The tour includes time at Bay Beach and the natural pool, as well as a visit to the historic California Lighthouse and Gold Mills Ruins.
Note: This activity is only recommended for those who can swim, and you should also bring water shoes, as the rocks surrounding the pool can be slippery.
7. Set Sail on a Catamaran
Catamaran ride on the Arusun
Aruba has arguably the clearest water I’ve ever seen, which means a catamaran ride is a must.
It’s definitely one of the best things for adults to do in Aruba, and many companies offer catamaran rides, from a champagne brunch on the boat to snorkeling tours and sunset cruises.
We chose The Arusu because it was one of the more affordable options in Aruba. It offered a well-maintained catamaran with friendly staff and tasty drinks and wraps. The two-and-a-half-hour trip with two snorkeling stops was perfect for us.
They offer two tours daily – one at 9:30 AM and the other at 1 PM.
We also did a catamaran excursion during our couples’ trip to Jamaica. It never fails to be relaxing and romantic!
👉 Check Availability for The Arusun Catamaran Tour 👈
8. Hike In Arikok National Park
I love exploring national parks wherever I travel, and Aruba is no exception!
Located on the island’s east side, Arikok National Park has a variety of beaches, caves, and so much more to explore! The two most popular beaches are Boca Prins and Dos Playa, which are nesting sites for turtles and great places to surf!
Arikok National Park is best explored by a 4X4 vehicle, and there’s enough to keep you busy for a full day.
If your time is limited, simply chat with the park rangers to determine which areas to explore first!
9. Stay at a Romantic Resort
If you’re on a special trip with your partner in Aruba, sometimes a romantic resort is all you need 😉
We stayed at The Boardwalk Boutique Hotel, which was literally a tropical oasis. The landscape is full of greenery, and the vibe is so serene. It’s one of the best things for couples to do in Aruba, and this resort offers many unique casitas – including a few with private plunge pools and one with a claw-foot tub overlooking a 360-degree balcony!
Although it’s not located directly on Eagle Beach, a beach area with private palapas (beach chairs with an “umbrella” made out of palm leaves) and beach service is available across the street only for guests of The Boardwalk. The walk is easy and takes less than five minutes.
Honestly, most beachfront hotels in Aruba are set far back from the shore, so it would probably take most guests about the same amount of time to get from their room to the beach.
If you’re serious about staying in a beachfront hotel in Aruba, here’s how to snag the best deals!
👉 Get my detailed review of Boardwalk Boutique Hotel 👈
10. Indulge in a Private Chef Experience
One of the perks of staying at Boardwalk Boutique Hotel is that most casitas have a kitchen, making it easy to hire a private chef for a romantic dinner in Aruba.
The hotel recommended Barbulet Concierge to schedule our private chef, and we chose Chef Makaveli.
I literally could not have envisioned a better dinner. The ambiance of The Boardwalk Hotel and the delicious fresh food prepared by the chef made for an incredibly romantic evening on our 9th anniversary.
11. Explore the Desert on UTVs or ATVs
If you’re an adrenaline junkie, but prefer it on land, a UTV or ATV tour is a must-do activity- exploring Aruba’s untouched north coast. Although I did this experience with my family of 12, I couldn’t help thinking how amazing this would be as a couples’ adventure—wind in your hair, rugged landscapes, and just the two of you soaking it all in. It’s a thrilling and off-the-beaten-path way to explore Aruba together.
We made stops at Natural Bridge, the Cave Pool, and Ayo Rock Formation—all memorable in their own way. Natural Bridge felt like a hidden gem, with a few adventurous souls relaxing in the waters below. My personal favorite? Ayo Rock Formation—it gave major Joshua Tree vibes and was the perfect short hike to break up the ride and share a moment in nature.
👉 Learn more about a UTV Tour (includes a Natural Pool) 👈
12. Go Jet Skiing at Eagle Beach
Get your adrenaline rush while exploring the beauty of Aruba’s beautiful water on a Jet Ski. If you’re staying near the popular Eagle Beach, you won’t have to go far to find a Jet Ski vendor.
That’s exactly what my family did! The vendor that we rented our beach chairs from, also rented jet skis. My family opted for 30-minute rides and loved every moment of it!
13. Summit the Ayo Rock Formations
Once considered sacred land by Aruba’s original inhabitants, this area is now a fascinating stop that blends nature, culture, and stunning views. We visited as part of our ATV tour with the family and really enjoyed walking the loop trail—it was quick (about 20 minutes) and a fun way to stretch our legs between rides.
Because it’s so accessible and scenic, it’s often a stop on various guided tours.
14. Check Out Aruba’s Natural Bridge
The Natural Bridge in Aruba is on the north shore of Arikok National Park, right next to Andicuri Beach and a collection of beautiful coves. Unfortunately, the bridge collapsed in 2005, but what remains is a beautiful backdrop to take photos and take in the beauty of Aruba.
More Unique Things to Do in Aruba
15. Ride a Seabob
A Seabob Aruba tour is similar to snorkeling but on the next level. The Seabob is an underwater scooter that allows a completely motorized way to explore the ocean and marine life! It’s effortless, and no experience is necessary to enjoy this experience.
16. Book a Semi-Submarine Expedition
Another one of the best activities in Aruba is the semi-submarine expedition, which allows you to explore the underwater world without getting wet at all! The excursion is about 90 minutes, and you’ll see Aruba’s underwater attractions, like the Arashi Reef and The Antilla (WWII Shipwreck).
👉 Learn more about the semi-submarine expedition 👈
17. Learn To Scuba Dive
Want to learn how to dive? There are very few places more beautiful than Aruba that offer scuba diving lessons. This introductory lesson is a half-day and includes time in the classroom, pool, and open-water dive.
18. Hang on for a Tube Ride
Want a more controlled adrenaline rush than Jet Skiing? Try tube riding, where a speedboat pulls you and your partner (or a couple of friends) on a tube behind it on the water!
19. Go Skydiving
This is definitely the most high-thrill-seeking activity you could do in Aruba. Skydive Aruba gives the opportunity to take in the white sandy beaches and crystal clear, turquoise-hued water from a vantage point that most couldn’t even stomach.
20. Try Parasailing
Take in the breathtaking views of Aruba from a vantage point most don’t get to experience. You’re going to want to bring a camera to capture this experience. This parasailing tour offers the option for single, tandem, or triple seating.
21. Reserve a Seat on a Jeep Safari
Want to explore Aruba’s desert without having to traverse the terrain yourself? A Jeep Safari is an excellent way to experience some of Aruba’s natural attractions without the stress of getting there yourself. Most tours include a stop at a beach for snorkeling as well as some of Aruba’s most beautiful natural formations.
👉 Get more details about taking a Jeep Safari 👈
22. Take a Historic & Cultural Walk
If you’re particularly interested in learning about Aruba’s history, culture, and architecture through the lens of a local, one of the best ways that you could spend an afternoon is with a tour of Downtown Orangestad. This cultural tour includes museums, tastings, and more!
23. Snap a Picture with the “I Love Aruba” Sign
Taking a picture with the “I Love Aruba” Sign is a classic activity to commemorate your time in Aruba. It’s right next to the Cruise Terminal, located outside Renaissance Aruba Wind Creek Resort.
24. Have Dinner in a Lighthouse
Take in 360-degree views of Aruba from its highest elevation point, California Lighthouse. Just be aware that there’s a small fee to enter and a narrow staircase to the top. You could even upgrade your experience by reserving a 3-course private dining experience for two at the top of the lighthouse!
25. Ride the [Free] Street Car & Trolley
The streetcar and trolley are great for cruise passengers moving between the cruise terminal and the mall in downtown Aruba. It’s not the most exciting activity (and it doesn’t go far), but riding the trolley through downtown is a fun experience, and you can’t complain when it’s completely free!
26. Go Horseback Riding
Another fun and unique activity to try in Aruba is Horseback Riding. What could be a more fun way to see the beautiful views of Aruba’s beaches, sand dunes, and attractions than from horseback? Tours accommodate all skill levels, too, even first-timers!
👉 Get more details on the Horseback Riding Experience 👈
27. Visit a Butterfly Farm
At the Bubali Bird Sanctuary next to Eagle Beach is a one-of-a-kind butterfly farm with a rainforest-like atmosphere and butterflies flying freely all throughout the building. While taking a guided tour of the farm, you’ll have the opportunity to learn more about butterflies and potentially even hold them. Also, your entry ticket is valid for your entire vacation!
28. Hang Out at the Animal Sanctuary
If you’re a true animal lover and interested in checking out some animal farms in Aruba, then an Animal Sanctuary tour is a great way to spend an afternoon in Aruba. This half-day tour covers all transportation and visits 3 separate animal farms (Philip’s Animal Garden, Aruba Ostrich Farm, and Aruba’s Donkey Sanctuary)!
👉 Learn more about the Half-Day Animal Sanctuary Experience 👈
29. Have a Private Dinner on a Floating Island
I realize I’m a little biased since it was my anniversary, but Aruba is one of the most romantic islands that I’ve ever been to! Many of the above activities could be considered romantic.
But if you want to take things up a level, a private dinner while floating atop crystal-clear water at sunset is hard to top! Shuttle service from your hotel, a bottle of wine, and dinner are included.
30. Make Dinner Reservations at Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort
A great alternative to a floating dinner is making reservations at Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort. This adult-only resort is set on Eagle Beach, creating the most beautiful ambiance to enjoy the company of the one you love. The food is as delicious as the setting, and the setting is beautiful.
31. Getaway On a Romantic Champagne Sailing Cruise
Looking for a small group sailing and snorkeling experience that will treat you like royalty? Blue Melody & Black Pearl Sail is far from your typical party cruise. It’s created for people looking to sit back with a drink and relax in lounger chairs while listening to the soft breeze of the ocean.
👉 Get details on the Champagne Sailing Cruise 👈
32. Treat Yourself to an Oceanfront Spa Day
While on holiday, one of the ways I like treating myself is with a proper spa day. I’m talking a full massage, body scrub, facials, and a footbath (at least in my perfect world). Well, there are quite a few places to spoil yourself in Aruba. Here are a few renowned spas that offer oceanfront spa treatments:
Recap
Overall, Aruba far exceeded my expectations.
I honestly thought we would sit at the beach most of the time, but there were so many unique things to do in Aruba that we cannot wait to come back to experience more.
The Sea Trek experience and seeing flamingos up close on our all-inclusive tour to De Palm Island was the most memorable and unique excursion of both of my trips to Aruba. There’s something about soaking up the sun with various water activities, with unlimited food and drink.
But honestly, if you find a quality place to stay (like the Boardwalk Boutique Hotel), Aruba’s pristine beaches and crystal-clear water alone would’ve made our anniversary trip worth it!
Ready to head to Aruba? Get my complete Aruba packing list, and sign up for Scott’s Cheap Flights to get notified when flight prices drop!
