Don’t you have a bucket list? You might call it the secret wish list, the crazy fun things to try at least once in a lifetime or even the-try-something-new-every-day-kind-of-list. If you think Aruba is just another resort destination, you got it all wrong.
To be honest, I was wrong too. I was happily thinking about seeing the famous flamingos, white sand beaches, and insanely colorful sunsets. Aruba was possibly the dream destination for a relaxing holiday. I had no idea how wrong I was.
Aruba would be filled with adventures surrounded by crystal clear water, cactuses and arid landscapes.
The sweet life would become vivid, intense. The sweet life? Really? I can already hear you shout a typical “Aruba – Arrrrrribaaaa!” (Which is a cocktail by the way!)
This; would simply be the sound of happiness – One happy island, they say.
There are many cool and unique things to do in Aruba. From kayak adventures to snorkeling, from off-road bike rides to kitesurfing. There’s nothing boring – read relaxing – about Aruba. If you’re wondering what activities to do in Aruba or if you’re backpacking Aruba… this is for you!
If you don’t have an Aruba bucket list of yours, let’s make a draft together with these top things to do in Aruba.
Windsurfing in Aruba
What the heck is windsurfing? Yeah, I had no idea. I was secretly hoping this would be as easy as parasailing. But, no, it wasn’t. Picture a surfboard and add a sail on top of it. There you go. Now, learn how to bring the sail up and you’re almost there.
Windsurfing in Aruba was such a cool experience and is only one amongst many other different active water sports.
Aruba Backpacking Activities
Kitesurfing in Aruba
Kitesurfing is now on my list! I always wondered what these crazy people were doing jumping around holding a kite. It looks so much fun! Apparently, it’s “kite” hard to learn, it will surely take you a few lessons to master it!
Kitesurfing in Aruba seems to be a popular reason to be out there! Many expats will find their happiness working in a water sports shop next to a beach! Isn’t this the dream job anyway?
Fun things to do in Aruba
Stand-Up Paddle Boarding in Aruba
Great sport, and perfect to relax away from the crowds, stand-up paddleboarding is such a cool thing to do. Rather you’re on a lake, on a blue lagoon or on the turquoise Caribbean Sea, it’s always a good plan!
Snorkeling / Diving in Aruba
The Caribbeans are known for their great snorkeling/diving opportunities. It seems to be one of the reasons why people are going to Aruba! There’s a World War II shipwreck called Antilla Wreck which is quite a popular diving site.
You can also snorkel there! In fact, many boat cruises will take you there for a snorkel stop!
Other popular diving sites in Aruba: Pedernales, Jane Sea Wreck, Serato Pinnacle, Arashi Airplane, Renaissance Airplane, Blue Reef & Debbie II, etc.
Top things to do in Aruba
Horse-riding in Aruba
Horse-riding is so much fun! Imagine yourself riding a horse on a white sandy beach or even across the Aruban Outback. What seems to be the perfect romantic date could also turn out to be a one-off experience!
Kayak Adventures in Aruba
Who doesn’t like to go on a kayak trip? I love kayaking. Especially, if the surrounding water is crystal blue. Aruba allows you to hop on your kayak and paddle across turquoise lagoons. It might not be that relaxing though.
The Wind can be quite strong in Aruba, so show off your muscles for a bit, you’ll need them out there!
Aruba Backpack
Biking in Aruba
Grab your bike, we’re going on a ride! Biking in Aruba is so much fun. You can easily hire your own bike or join a tour to see another side of Aruba – the outback.
Perhaps, not as big as the one in Australia, you will surely appreciate its colors and cactuses. Go to the lighthouse and enjoy the view!
What to do in Aruba
Hiking in Aruba
If you prefer to use your feet, feel free to do so! Aruba should be known for Arikok National Park AKA heaven for hikers. While you’re there you should aim for the caves of Fontein and Gaudirikiri. They are huge! Bring your flashlight and opt for the morning – the heat is real in Aruba.
Aruba things to do
Off-Road Jeep Tours
Aruba rhymes with Jeep! Yes, it does! If you rent your own vehicle, you should pick a 4×4! If you want to hit the Aruban outback, you might want to embrace the insanity and go for an epic tour with De Palm Tours Aruba.
Bring your camera along as you will reach a few secluded Aruban secrets like the Natural Pool and the collapsed Natural Bridge.
Things to do Aruba
For any water sports queries, I’d suggest you visit the guys at Aruba Active Vacations. They are pretty awesome and friendly! Bonus: They will be patient with you!
Disclaimer: This article was written in collaboration with Aruba Tourism UK. As always, all opinions are my own! Happy travels!
