Planning Your Trip To Aruba? Things to Do In Aruba 2023

Discover 15 things to do while you explore the beautiful Island of Aruba. Whether you are a visitor from off the Island, a resident of Aruba, or a student at one of our three prestigious medical universities, our island has something extraordinary for you. Check out our list of fifteen different fun activities below!

Are you thinking about visiting Aruba? With Aruba’s record number of days with sunshine – and gorgeous weather – there’s so much to see, do, and experience. Discover some of the best things to do in Aruba so that you can start your school year off the right way! But first a little more about the beautiful Island we call home:

About Aruba:

The Island of Aruba is located just 17 miles (27 km) north of Venezuela. Aruba is one of the islands in a group knows as The Netherlands Antilles. They include Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao (the ABC islands), and other Dutch Antilles islands. The capital, and largest city of Aruba, is Oranjestad, which combines old and new in a blend of historic tradition and Caribbean warmth.

Aruba’s unique climate creates beautiful landscapes, sunny skies, perfect temperatures (average of 82 degrees year-round), and constant cooling trade winds. The South Caribbean location means that the island lies outside the hurricane belt, yet, it is easily accessible by plane directly from mainland US airports. But aside from relaxing in the sun, what else is there to do on Aruba?

1. Watch a Sunset from Arashi Beach

Located on the northwestern edge of the island, Arashi Beach’s white sand and clear blue water make it a must-visit destination for snorkeling and swimming. However, since it’s a bit off the beaten track, Arashi Beach won’t be as crowded as some of the more popular places on Aruba, making it a perfectly romantic spot to watch sunsets.

2. Get Your Aruba Scuba Diving Certification

If you’re going to visit on a tropical island, why not work towards getting your scuba diving certification? If you are a beginner, the Resort Certification Scuba Diving Course can start you on your journey of understanding the basic principles and equipment. Throughout your time on Aruba, you can build your expertise and eventually, even advance to open water dives!

3. Snorkel at Mangel Halto

One the best snorkeling spots in the entire Caribbean, Mangel Halto has crystal clear visibility and a stunningly pristine coral reef. Situated right off the southwestern coast, Mangel Halto doesn’t have a signpost, making this off-the-beaten-track lagoon popular with adventure seekers. Be warned: Due to underwater currents, it’s only recommended for more advanced snorkelers.

4. Get Some Sun at Baby Beach

This man-made lagoon is located at the southeast end of Aruba, and is fun for tourists and locals alike. It’s peaceful and calm waters mean that even novice snorkelers can stay afloat while keeping their eyes wide open for animals like animals like angelfish, squid, and even barracudas! And the beautiful white beaches mean there’s plenty of space to get some sun if you’re just looking to relax!

5. Spot the San Nicolas Murals

On the same side of the island, you’ll be able to spot the gorgeous San Nicolas murals painted by international street artists like Chemis, Dopie, and Bond Truluv . Every year they are created anew when the not-for-profit agency Aruba Art Fair brings in artists from all over the world, resulting in a unique urban landscape that is in a state of colorful flux!

6. Discover the Island’s History

Aruba is an island settled hundreds of years ago by the Dutch while retaining many distinctive native Aruban cultural aspects too. Get to know the Islands rich architectural history at the National Archeological Museum of Aruba With a rich program of exhibitions, lectures, and workshops, the museum will continue to provide enriching opportunities during your stay on the Island.

7. Deep Sea Fishing

Whether you’re after game fish like tuna or marlin or simply want to cruise the beautiful Caribbean Sea, Aruba has seriously thrilling opportunities. For veteran and novice fishermen alike, charter boats can take you to some of the most bountiful waters anywhere in the world. Experienced crews will teach you a variety of techniques to target specific species.

8. Ride by Horseback Through Arikok National Park

What’s not to love about Aruban sightseeing on horseback? From galloping along sand dunes and across stunning shorelines to cooling off in a natural tide-pool, this is a fantastic way to spend an afternoon sight-seeing around the island. For less-experienced equestrians there are many classes that can quickly get you off the ground and on the back of a horse.

9. Discover the Secrets Behind Aloe Vera

Did you know that aloe vera is one of the most versatile (and oldest) medicinal plants in the world, and that Aruba grows some of the best varieties? The Aruba Aloe Vera Museum is a unexpectedly interesting place to tour. Best of all, their ecologically-friendly mineral sunscreens will help protect your skin from harmful UV rays on a weekend holiday.

10. Swim Alongside Wild Dolphins

There aren’t any dolphins in aquariums on Aruba because there are so many in the wild! Why would you want to see something behind glass when you can swim alongside the noble giants in the wild? Venture out to Boca Catalina (on the northwest side of the island) and catch a snorkel boat out to dolphin-rich waters – it’s the experience of a lifetime!

11. Explore a Secret Beach and Cave Pool

The northern coast of Aruba was formed over eons as volcanoes continuously erupted, making  the terrain harsh, ragged, and beautiful. To explore this area, you’ll want something a bit more robust than your feet. So, rent an ATV to explore the area, making sure to stop at a secret beach along the way. While on the north shore, cliff jump into a natural Aruban cave pool to cool off! Is there a better way to spend a hot afternoon?

12. Parasail over Eagle Beach

If you’re the adventurous type, consider parasailing along Eagle Beach and Palm Beach . Your bird’s eye view of gorgeous white sand and cerulean water is sure to impress! Aruba is beautiful from any angle, but while you glide far above the island you’ll be sure to get view you won’t soon forget.

13. Snorkel Through the Antilla Shipwreck

Swim through history! If the idea of snorkelling next to a sunken ship sounds like fun, you’ll definitely love the Antilla Shipwreck. Swim alongside garden eels and sea turtles, as you embark on a surreal adventure that will make your Instagram followers jealous!

14. Embark on a Lively Pub Crawl

Get to know the hottest nightlife spots with your fellow travelers- with the infamous Kukoo Kunuku pub crawl! With complimentary drinks and a lively party bus transporting you everywhere you need to go, this Aruba island tour is one for the ages!

15. Explore Oranjestad with a Walking Tour

In Aruba’s beautiful capital, Oranjestad, a professional walking tour will provide you with greater insight into the city’s history, sites, and even local dining (which is always a major crowd pleaser). We recommended catching the morning tour of the city, and then head down to Surfside Beach for sun and fun!

Thinking about Medical School?

While Aruba is a place of excitement and beauty, it is also a place of learning and education to. If you’re thinking about medical school you should definitely consider Caribbean Universities and AUSOMA.