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What to Do?
You can arrange a number of excursions and activities on your own. Your choices are as varied as the island itself. There are sailing cruises, full-day or half-day island tours, side trips and island-hopping excursions, Archaeological and geological tours, Birdwatching and hiking tours, Nature tours, Marlab biological tours, Mountain bike tours, Submarine tours and much more...
And when you're ready to unwind, there are sunset cruises, sunset and Rock & Romance dinner cruises, moonlight cruises and party cruises. Or, instead of excursions, venture out on your own!
So Many Things to See!
So Many Ways to See Them!
Some Highlights...
Alto Vista Chapel
Location: Boca Cura, Aruba
This quaint, yellow chapel is on the site of the first one on Aruba. Established more than 250 years ago by the Indians and the Spanish, Alto Vista is often called the Pilgrim's Church. As the name suggests, the chapel is set on a cliff looking out across the sea. A small, winding road leads to the chapel - the white crosses along the way mark the Stations of the Cross.
Archaeological Museum of Aruba
Location: Zoutmanstraat 1, Oranjestad, Aruba · 297-582-8979
This tiny museum offers a fascinating glimpse at the life of Aruba's original inhabitants. Displays include farm tools, Indian artifacts, pottery, and art - as well as a few skeletons!
Bushiribana
Location: North Coast, Aruba
According to a Caribbean legend early adventurers in search of treasures knew of an island called "red gold" or Oro Ruba. In the mid-19th century, Aruba experienced a gold rush and small mines were built throughout the countryside. The abandoned mine at Bushiribana is still visible. Other nearby ruins are said to belong to a pirate's castle dating back to 1499.
California Lighthouse
Location: Saskiweg, Hudishibana, Malmok, Aruba
This lighthouse is not named for the rolling sand dunes in which it is situated, but rather for its proximity to the wreck of the "California" - a ship infamous for receiving and ignoring the SOS signals sent by the Titanic. Built in 1910, this stone structure is no longer open to the public but is still worth a visit for the interesting scenery. A nearby restaurant offers light snacks during the day and fine dining in the evenings.
De Olde Molen
Location: LG Smith Blvd 330, Palm Beach, Aruba · 297-586-2060
A piece of Aruba's Dutch heritage, this windmill was built in Holland in 1804. In 1960, it was shipped to Aruba, piece-by-piece and reconstructed. The structure is now home to a trendy bar called Milljon.
Fort Zoutman
Location: Zoutmanstraat, Oranjestad, Aruba · 297-582-6099
Constructed in 1796 this old Dutch fortress now houses the Historical Museum of Aruba. The museum offers displays chronicling the island's early history from ancient Caiquetio Indian artifacts through Spanish and Dutch colonialism.
Numismatic Museum
Location: Zuidstraat 27, Oranjestad, Aruba · 297-965-6969
Take a trip through time at this fascinating museum. The history of not only the Caribbean but the rest of the world is documented with coins. The museum was established in 1981 with the private collection of one Mario Odor, a man whose inspiration came from stumbling upon two 18th century coins while digging in his garden in 1955. With over 40,000 pieces from more than 400 countries, this is one amazing collection. You may be surprised at what you find displayed here!
San Nicolas
Location: Zeppenfeldstraat 56, San Nicolas, Aruba
Spend a day touring Aruba's oldest and second largest town. San Nicolas was where most of the Lago oil refinery workers lived until 1985 when the factory closed. Now this port town is rejuvenating itself for tourism by building a central market, a cultural center and several parks. No visit to San Nicolas would be complete without a stop at Charlie's Bar - it is an island legend.
Savaneta
Location: Savaneta, Aruba
The historic town of Savaneta is the original Dutch capital established in 1816. Located right on the way to San Nicolas, the charming town is known for its picturesque, historic buildings, which include the oldest homes on the island. Fishing is the primary employment, much to the benefit of local restaurants like Brisas Del Mar and Flying Fishbone.
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