Aruba’s Best Attractions, Sights and Tours

Fact checked by: Michelai Graham

Aruba’s most famous landmark, the Natural Bridge, was reclaimed by the sea in 2005. However, this desert island offers a myriad of other stunning natural and manmade attractions to explore, including tours of the island’s vast parklands, historic churches, windswept ruins, and offshore playgrounds.

Aruba Butterfly Farm

At the Aruba Butterfly Farm, hundreds of beautiful butterflies flutter freely in a lush, vegetated enclosure. Bring a camera and be patient, as the photographic opportunities are remarkable.

Aruba Aloe Factory and Museum Tour

Address: Pitastraat 115, Aruba

Phone: +297 588 3222

A museum dedicated to all things aloe complements a journey to Aruba, especially on a rainy day. The aloe products will soothe your skin after an intense day in the Caribbean sun.

Chapel of Alto Vista

Address: HXGQ+9JC, Noord, Aruba

A path lined with white crosses leads to the picturesque Chapel of Alto Vista, the first church constructed in Aruba. This neo-Gothic chapel, built in the 1750s, holds significant cultural relevance to the Aruban community.

National Archaeological Museum

Address: Schelpstraat 42, Oranjestad, Aruba

Phone: +297 582 8979

The Aruba Archaeological Museum is notable for being the first of its kind in the Caribbean, showcasing modern facilities. Visitors can explore artifacts tracing human history in Aruba dating back to 2,500 BC. Furthermore, the museum is located in a historic ‘cunucu’ house, adding to its charm.

Arikok National Park

Address: San Fuego 70, Santa Cruz, Aruba

Phone: +297 585 1234

Arikok National Park includes Arawak Indian drawings, desert landscapes, and unique wildlife, covering about 20% of Aruba’s land. The park features numerous hiking trails and knowledgeable rangers who assist visitors throughout the park.

California Point Lighthouse

Address: Noord, Aruba

The historic California Point Lighthouse, named after the shipwreck of the 100-year-old California, offers stunning views of Aruba’s western coast and beaches, making it a frequently visited attraction.

Fort Zoutman Historical Museum

Address: GX97+4P3, Zoutmanstraat, Oranjestad, Aruba

Phone: +297 588 5199

The brightly painted Fort Zoutman tower, Aruba’s oldest building built in 1798, serves as a lighthouse and clock tower while housing the Historical Museum. The museum provides insight into Aruba’s development and is a hub for cultural events.

Guadiriki (Quadiriki) Caves

Address: 7, Aruba

Phone: +297 585 1234

The Guadiriki Caves are rich in history, featuring petroglyphs and unique geological formations. As part of Arikok National Park, these caves are accessible to adventurers looking for exploration.

Bushiribana Gold Mine Ruins

Address: H23F+CHV, Noord, Aruba

Aruba, meaning “red gold,” witnessed a gold rush in the early 19th century. You can explore the remains of the gold mines that were established following the discovery of gold in 1824, near the iconic Natural Bridge.

Natural Pool

Address: Natural Pool, Santa Cruz, Aruba

The rugged north shore of Aruba offers stunning contrast to the calm Caribbean beaches. At the famous Natural Pool, known as “conchi,” visitors can enjoy a serene escape surrounded by volcanic rock.

DePalm Island

Address: De Palm Island Ferry Terminal, De Palm Island Way, Aruba

DePalm Tours offers an array of watersport activities at their private island, DePalm Island, making it an exciting destination for visitors. For a reasonable price, guests can enjoy an unlimited buffet, snorkeling, and many other activities.

Balashi Brewery

Address: Balashi 62, Oranjestad, Aruba

Phone: +297 585 8700

While rum is commonly associated with the Caribbean, Aruba favors its local beer, Balashi, which is brewed in the countryside. Visitors can taste the beer and enjoy a meal at the Balashi Gardens after touring the brewery.