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Living in Aruba is great!

It gives me the unique opportunity to explore the island at my own pace, when I want, and my journeys always lead me to find new places most tourists (and locals) don’t know much about.  

This time I made it to the other side of the island, to Boca Grandi Beach.

It’s not a new place for me, also not to those who have traveled to Aruba for years. However, this time I discovered new things to do here that made me fall in love all over again with this beach.

Let me tell you..

It’s not like any other of the beaches in Aruba, or in the world even.

Boca Grandi is known for one of the best kitesurfing spots on the island.

This beach is different.

It’s off the radar for most tourist and locals.

There’s no palm trees, but grape trees (edible, grows seasonally).

White sand, miles of it, and dunes covered in green flora and all of this beauty surrounded by clear blue waters.

boca grandi beach in aruba

Beautiful sand dunes at boca Grandi beach…

It’s not easy to reach Boca Grandi, but if you dare to make the journey, you’ll be rewarded with beautiful scenic views and a private beach to call your own for the day.

In this article I explain how to get Boca Grandi, the top things to do here besides kite surfing just in case you decide to explore Aruba and find this “undiscovered beach”.

And some other helpful tips to make your experience here one to remember.

Where is Boca Grandi Beach?

It’s far from the hotel area, but not hard to find.

The bus doesn’t pass here. Taxis can drop you here,  but this is an expensive ride, compared to renting your own car or jeep in Aruba.

If you decide to rent a car, drive from the hotel area back to the airport and keep driving on the highway to the south side of the island. Stay on this highway following this direction through Pos Chiquito, Savaneta, San Nicolas until you reach Sero Colorado (it’s the same drive to baby beach).  

You will drive on the giant bridge in the background on your way to boca Grandi…

When you approach the entrance of Sero Colorado, you’re going to see a giant red anker.

The road to the left of the anchor leads to Boca Grandi beach, and the road to the right leads to baby beach.

The drive from hotel area to boca grandi can be 30 – 45 minute depending on traffic.



Before Boca Grandi Stop & Learn About The Red Anchor

Before you reach Boca Grandi Beach you’re going to notice a giant red anchor.

It’s not just any anchor.

This anchor laid on the bottom of the ocean near the coastal waters of Boca Grandi for decades, until it was accidentally discovered by members of a tugboat crew who worked for the nearby refinery on the island in 1970’s.

This anchor not only marks, the entrance to Boca Grandi Beach, but this anchor is also an important part of history for the island.

It’s dedicated to all seamen who worked in the refinery after it closed for good in 1985.

The anchor is approximately 10 feet 6 inches wide and 15 feet 6 inches tall and manufactured in Germany in the 1960’s.

This picture will be iconic.

boca-grandi-beach-in-aruba

When you see this anchor, you know you’re close to boca Grandi, stop and get closer to this anchor, it has history….

The anchor continues to be “a must see” and one the most photographed landmarks on the island, by both locals and visitors alike.

Follow the road to the left of the anchor to drive to Boca Grandi Beach (the road to the right of the anchor leads to Baby Beach).

Related Article – Escape the Crowds by Visiting This Secluded Beach in Aruba

Spend The Day At The Beach How You Really Want!

Boca Grandi beach is not the traditional tourist beach, it’s mostly isolated with no amenities.

The stretch of beach here is over 1 kilometers of soft sand that turns slightly pink everytime the waves touches the shores.

Imagine what you can do on this beach that is generally undiscovered…

  • Relax, unbothered, like there’s no tomorrow
  • Sun bath and get tan
  • Have a picnic or lunch here
  • Long beach walks, and find great clean areas to swim
  • Hike
  • Read a book, undisturbed
  • What’s your favorite thing to do on the beach? You can do it here!

Boca Grandi is windy, the currents are known to be strong here, swimming is not advised in the deep blue, but staying on the shores is advisable and safe.

If you want shade from the sun, sit under one of the man made shacks.

boca-grandi-beach-in-aruba

There’s a few of these shacks on the beach…

boca-grandi-beach-in-aruba

Shade from the Caribbean sun…

There’s no supermarkets near Boca Grandi (only a small kitesurfing school with a small beach bar).

If you plan to spend a day, or at least a few hours at this beach, come fully prepared with food, water and drinks.

Before you go to the beach in Aruba, make sure you have checked off your list of must have items when on the beach.

Walk The Beach and Find Your Next Souvenir

Walk on miles of sand and discover the beach!

There’s no telling what you’ll find on your walks. You might see a gang of goats or if you get lucky our local donkeys roaming near the dunes or walking from a distance.

Or just walk around the dunes and see the island from a different perspective.

This is how beautiful is looks here at boga grandi…

boca-grandi-beach-in-aruba

Can you imagine yourself standing between beautiful dunes…

boca-grandi-beach-in-aruba

Boca Grandi beach is different, it’s unique, it’s beautiful…

If you have a great eye for “what can be” you can walk into cool driftwood, and organic materials that washed up on the shore that you can use for souvenirs.

You never know what you’ll find.

It’s always curious to find out what the ocean brings to shore….

This is what I found on one of my walks…

boca-grandi-beach-in-aruba

Walk the miles of white beach and find something awesome…

Learn How To Kitesurf (or Just Watch For Fun)

Boca Grandi Beach has on-shore winds, strong currents and plenty of small waves.

There’s a kitesurf shack on the beach, and they offer lessons. If you’re interested in a lesson or rentals don’t hesitate to ask around.

Just incase kitesurfing is not your thing, watching from the sidelines is also interesting, as surfers fly across the ocean.

Isn’t this view a beautiful one?

boca-grandi-beach-in-aruba

Learn the art of kite surfing in Aruba from the best instructors…

Remember This Before You Visit Boca Grandi Beach

Boca Grandi Beach is surrounded by white sand dunes, and flora, so it’s important to conserve this piece of nature.

Remember this before you visit boca grandi (or any beach on the island)…

  • Do not drive on the sand or dunes (explore them by foot)
  • Keep the beach clean (no plastic, glass or cigarette on the beach)
  • Park the car before the beach sand starts and walk over the dunes to the beach.

Help keep our beaches sparkling like a gem.

Don’t drive on the sand or dunes.

Keep our beaches clean!

boca-grandi-beach-in-aruba

Please do not drive on the beach or dunes…it’s illegal!

boca-grandi-beach-in-aruba

Aruba is more beautiful when it’s clean…

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Read More About Aruba

How To Discover The Southern Coast Of Aruba By Kayak

Top 15 Must Have Items To Bring To The Beach in Aruba

7 Things You Can Do in Aruba in One Day

21 Unusual & Unique Activities in Aruba



Are you looking for unique things to do in Aruba that you’ve probably never thought of doing before? Here’s a list of unique activities in Aruba for you, and your family.

Unique Things To Do in Aruba

The list consist of three categories from beach, air and land activities. It has both low impact energy activity and adventure for thrill seekers.

You might of never heard from these activities before (that’s the point), and some you’ve never gotten the chance to do it before, but totally should.

Go Horseback Riding At Wariruri Beach

Guided horseback ride alongside Aruba’s scenic coastlines towards Wariruri Beach.

Wariruri is a secluded beach surrounded by a natural coastline cove.

It’s known among locals and visitors for hiking and surfing. Wariruri Beach is one of the hidden gems of beaches on the island, a must visit while on Aruba.

At wariruri beach you get a chance to take in the scenic views and make some memorable pictures.

Enjoy the freedom of riding a horse in the Caribbean.


Go horseback riding on the country side of the island towards one of Aruba’s hidden gem – Wariruri Beach. 

Tours start at $105.00

 



Horseback Tour Details & Pricing

You can easily book this horseback riding tours directly with us.

The tour is offered during the morning or in the afternoon.

Here’s some details and pricing for horseback riding tours to Wariruri beach.

  • Prices start at $105.00 per person.
  • Private tour guide included in price.
  • Confirmation email with be sent by email after your booking.
  • Guests exceeding weight limit of 250 pounds are not allowed to ride.
  • Quick lesson on riding horses included.
  • Transportation included: you will be informed about pick up time and location after you confirm your booking.
  • Activity Provider: La Ponderosa Ranch

Book Your Horseback Riding Tour


Hike To Natural Pool (Swim & Snorkel) + Lunch at Palm Beach!

Are you into hiking and exploring the island in an unique way?

This tour starts at Aruba’s national park (Arikok) where you will start your hiking tour alongside a countryside trail towards one of the most popular attractions on the island, the Natural Pool!

Arikok hiking tour is perfect for adventure seekers who want to discover the park in a unique way.

You can snorkel and swim here at this famous rock formation pool.

After the hiking session, you will refuel your body with a delicious lunch at, Ricardo’s, one of the best restaurants on Palm Beach (lunch included in the tour price).

Book Now – $175.00



Natural Pool Hiking Tour Price & Details

Here’s a list of important details and price for hiking tours to Natural pool.

The Tour includes:

  1. Experienced tour guide
  2. Private Tour
  3. Fruits & Water on the way
  4. Snorkeling gear
  5. Entree to the Arikok National Park
  6. Half-day Tour Exploring nature
  7. Visit seven sightseeing spots
  8. Visit coast to coast or Aruba
  9. Luxury lunch at Ricardo’s restaurant ocean Front at Eagle Beach

Book Your Natural Hiking Tour

The Natural Pool.


Do you want to explore Aruba’s National Park Arikok on a hiking tour see the popular natural pool?

Arikok hiking tour is perfect for adventure seekers who want to discover the park in a unique way.


Guided Local & Private Tour Around Aruba

There’s a lot to do in Aruba and one smart move is to go with a tour that highlights all the iconic spots on the island.

With a local guided and private tour, you will enjoy the privacy of enjoying the island with your family.

This is a half day tour that includes stops at:

  • Butterfly Farm
  • California Lighthouse
  • Feed turtles while you swim and snorkel at Mangel Halto
  • Visit the donkey sanctuary
  • And you can request iconic spots that interest you to visit.
  • Price starts at $125.00

Explore Aruba with the help of a local tour guide. Visit all the iconic spots on the island, including snorkeling and swimming. Or request to add some point of interest of your liking. This tour is perfect for families and groups looking to explore Aruba.

Price – $125.00


Details Local Guided Tours in Aruba

 Here are the stops this tour includes.

  • Butterfly Farm
  • Family picture at the Tower
  • Let’s feed the turtles
  • Donkey Sanctuary
  • Mangel Halto Beach (Swimming & Snorkeling)

Book Your Private Tour Now – $125.00


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If so, sign up for our weekly newsletter to get updates about Aruba delivered straight to your inbox every week for free.

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How To Travel 3 Days in Aruba Itinerary

If your planning to spend 3 days in Aruba or more, here’s one of my complete travel itinerary with things to do, where to eat local and how to enjoy the most out of your vacation.

Relaxation is top priority when on vacation, but once your zenned out, the island awaits for you to be explored…

Pin this image on your pinterest boards, share this post with fellow Aruba lovers!

Day One – Island Tour & Local Eats

Get acquainted with Aruba’s iconic landmarks with an island tour!

There are plenty of tour companies that offer different tour packages -half day, full day and private excursions. The guides are sure to show you the most beautiful spots, while they explain the history and culture behind it all.

You can also blaze your own trail through the desert terrain on the north side of the island by renting your own vehicle. (I recommend to rent a car to explore the island, even if it’s for a day).

You can easily visit popular landmarks, like the California Lighthouse, Alto Vista Chapel, Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins and Natural Bridge with a standard rental car. But you’re going to need a jeep to visit Natural Pool (Conchi), Daimari Beach or other similar attractions that have rocky trails.

Whether you discover the island in your own rental car, or by tour. It’s going to be a journey towards beautiful beaches, scenic coastlines, historic landmarks, and mysterious looking caves.

3-days-in-aruba

Explore the island, visit popular landmarks.

You’ve probably worked up an appetite for local cuisine after discovering the north part of the island.

Pikas Corner and Local Store are restaurants known to serve food with a local flair.

Pikas Corner has a menu with traditional Aruban dishes and snacks. Try their soup appetizers (sopi yambo), entrees like cucumber stoba, kerie-kerie or balchi pisca. For dessert order the locals favorite, bolo di cashupete (cashew cake).

Local Store has one of the best burgers on the island. They serve it with self made funchi fries and sriracha mayo sauce. Love craft beers? They also have them, and a lot of variety.

If you still have energy after exploring the island, head over to Bugaloe Beach Bar, for happy hour and live music (from 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM & 10:00 PM – 11:00 PM)

Sing along and dance to music and enjoy the special prices on drinks.

It’s okay to call it a night, if you’re feeling tired, because tomorrow morning is another day to explore the island.

Day Two – Snorkel, Happy Hour & Fine Dining

For the most important meal of the day, head over to Linda’s Dutch Pancake House to get a delicious Dutch style breakfast.

You can put different toppings on your pancakes – strawberries, apple, mango, whip cream, cheese, bacon and pepperoni. These are just a few of the options for toppings (gluten free and lactose free pancakes also available).

Or go to Bright Bakery for breakfast: coffee and traditional Aruban morning snacks, freshly made sandwiches, pastries, local spiced cakes (drigidek), sweet rolls, and donuts.  

After breakfast, it’s going to be the perfect time to go snorkeling.

There’s plenty of catamaran snorkeling excursions like Sail Away Tours and Tranquilo that will take you to popular snorkeling sites around the island.

Or bring your own snorkeling gear and beach hop to bays like Mangel Halto, Tres Trapi or Boca Catalina Bay.

3-days-in-aruba

Jump in, go snorkel…

Mangel Halto is known for clear blue waters, abundance of colorful fishes, sea horses, squids and manta rays.

Tres Trapi is known as “star city”, because of the amount of sea stars on the bottom of the ocean.

Boca Catalina Bay is also great for snorkeling, because of the variety of sea life – even turtles pass by here.

After snorkeling, take a stroll through the downtown area and shop for souvenirs at the Local Flea Market, hunt for unique art made by local artisans at Cosecha Art Gallery or find new items in the recently renovated Downtown Shopping Area.

What’s for lunch?

I recommend West Deck for a Caribbean inspired lunch, with an open view of the beach at Governors Bay.

They offer tapas and traditional local bites such as fried funchi with dutch cheese. Or try Aruban keshi yena, which is another local favorite.

Since you’re in the downtown area, take a stroll on the newly constructed linear park to one of the islands newest hangout spots – Surfside Beach Bar.

They have happy hour (from 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM) and also inexpensive rentals for beach chairs and parasols. Prices are $6.00 per chair – parasol are $4.00 each – two chairs and parasol is $15.00

Don’t forget to make dinner plans before happy hours ends.

Picking a restaurant for dinner can be tough, with so many dining options and high quality dishes. That’s why I recommend trying at least 3 new restaurants when on the island and continue from there.

Try a chic dinner in bed experience at Screaming Eagle (French fusion boutique-cuisine). Or make reservations at The Wine Room for a private wine tasting and a three course steak menu dinner. Or visit Mexico at Los Soles – a Mexican culture gourmet restaurant and sip powerful margaritas.

If you’re feeling lucky after dinner, try your luck at Excelsior Casino (largest poker room), Crystal Casino (carnival bingo every wednesday) or Alhambra Casino (slot machines and table games).




Day Three – Explore San Nicolas & Sunset Sail

Keep enjoying the local foods the island has to offer by visiting Don Pastechi Factory one of the best places to get pastechis in Aruba. It’s a fried pastry filled with different toppings like cheese, tuna, chicken and even pizza.

Or head south of the island for coffee, omelette, sandwiches, arepas, and mix your own smoothies at Antesala Cafe.

After breakfast keep going southeast of the island, to the district of San Nicolas, better known as the cultural heritage city of Aruba.

Once here you can discover over a dozen Murals painted by local and international artist. There’s also a Cosecha Art Gallery in the middle of the promenade that’s worth checking out if you like to buy more locally made art.

3 days in Aruba

Artistic murals, worth checking out!

San Nicolas displays a lot of its history inside 3 of its museums.

Visit the Community Museum that has 2 rooms filled with antique items and memorabilia from the “old days” of Aruba.

There’s also the Museum of Industry which narrates Aruba’s industrial history.

If you are enthusiastic about miniature items, than you’d probably want to check out the private Train Museum which has the largest collection of trains, planes, automobiles and buses on the island.

In case you need a quick bite to eat, visit Mundi Health Cafe for wraps, salads, sandwiches and a some refreshments to keep you going through the day.

Now that your refeuled keep going south until you reach one of Aruba’s most precious bays, Baby Beach.

After taking in all the beautiful views at this side of the island, put on your fins and mask to go snorkeling with colorful parrot fishes, yellow soldiers and other nemos.

You’ve probably worked up an appetite after your snorkeling session.

Visit Kamini’s Kitchen if you want to experience home style curry food, seafood and vegetarian cuisine. Or try Oneil’s Caribbean Kitchen, for the best jerk chicken and oxtail on the island.

Before the sun hides away, step aboard a catamaran and sail the waters during sunset.

As the sun makes its way down, you’ll start reminiscing about your vacation so far, before you know it your planning for next 3 days in Aruba vacation. Aruba Sunset Catamaran Cruise – $57.00
from: Viator


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Surfside beach Aruba is a beautiful strip of turquoise water and white sand beach near the coasts of the downtown area.

There’s plenty of cool spots to check out and fun things to do here.

Let me explain….

Where Is Surfside Beach Aruba?

Surfside Beach is located near the downtown area, close to the highway on your way to your hotel from the airport.  

You can easily reach surfside beach with the bus or taxi.

If you want to rent a car in Aruba, you can easily drive to surfside.

There’s lots of free parking space in this area. Read this article if you want to know the rules about paid parking in the downtown Aruba





Things To Do At Surfside Beach Aruba

Surfside is known for turquoise shallow waters, white sand shores and peacefulness.

It’s located about a mile away from the cruise port and a few minutes from the airport.

Many locals visit surfside during the weekend to spend time with their family, but during the week, the beach is so quiet, practically making it your own private beach.

Besides swimming, spotting planes land and watching cruise ships come in, there’s plenty of cool spots to check out and plenty to do at Surfside beach in Aruba.

So whether you’re looking for a place to spend some time after you explore the island with a tour, or just want a some fun in the sun, check out these fun things to do near the area of Surfside beach Aruba.

1. Experience Local Culture

If you want to catch a glimpse of Aruba’s theater and cultural center, you should visit Cas di Cultura.

Cas di Cultura was developed by a local cultural association since 1949.

Here you will find various talent nights, theater shows by locals and visitors, school plays and Broadway musicals.

2. Enjoy A Walk in The Park

Surfside beach has a new park called “linear park”.

You can walk for miles, enjoy the fresh Caribbean air and exercise on the different gym equipment for free.

The linear park spans from near the airport through surfside beach until the downtown area.

It’s very well visited by locals who jog or walk early in the morning and during the evening times.

3. Take Kids To a Playground

If you’re on vacation with kids, you should take them to a playground called “Neptali Park”.

It’s a community playground, which is well visited by local children and their parents.

There’s different swings, slides, merry go rounds and more other different recreational equipments.

The park open from 4:00 PM and closes after the sun sets (closed on Monday) – entrance to the park is free of charge.

You can drink from a water cooler or buy other refreshments or snacks from a vending machine.




4. Relax At Reflexions Beach Bar

Reflexion beach bar offers a nice pool to cool down, if you don’t want to swim at the beach. They also have a restaurant, to enjoy a nice breakfast, lunch or dinner.

You can even rent an umbrella or chair here and place an order for one or two cocktails on the beach….

You’ll also find umbrella and chair rentals here.

5. Happy Hour at Surfside Beach Bar

There’s a second beach bar, on surfside called “Surfside Beach Bar”.

This beach bar is known for their happy hours, on Wednesday and Saturday, from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM. It’s a great spot to hang out, drink and enjoy the view of the Caribbean.

You should try their delicious skewers, and infamous “Surfside Boom” drink, which knocks the blues out of everyone who tries it 🙂

They also serve lunch, dinner and coffee.

surfside beach Aruba

Surfside Beach Bar Aruba

6. Splash Around The Inflatable Water Park

There’s an inflatable water park waiting for you at surfside beach in Aruba.

It’s called splash park.

The idea of this inflatable water park in unique on the island.

Splash park is great place to take your family members for a challenge on their obstacle course.  so expect to have a lot of fun here with your family.

So prepare to bounce on trampolines, swing on monkey bars and climb high towers.

surfside beach Aruba

Splash Park!

7. Go on A Dive Excursion

Discover surfside’s underwater scenery with S.E. Fly N Dive school.

Sign up for a dive excursion and let the dive instructors shows you different dive sites, shallow reefs and shipwrecks.

Even if you’re not a certified diver, they offer half day training courses which includes theory and skills lessons, with a chance to dive in the open waters.

Your tour includes snorkeling or dive equipment, open bar and sandwiches.

surfside beach aruba

Go diving…

8. Dine Barefoot on the Beach

There’s a few restaurants in the area of surfside beach worth mentioning and one of them is called “Barefoot”.

Barefoot is one of the many restaurants where you can dine with your feet in the sand as the sound of ocean waves in the background sets a tropical mood.

Enjoy a delicious dish while you overlook the Caribbean sea.

surfside beach Aruba

Dine barefoot on the beach.

9. Dine On a Private Pier

Pinchos is another restaurant near the area of surfside beach in Aruba.

It’s a chic grill and bar on a private pier overlooking the turquoise waters.

The atmosphere at Pincho’s is very romantic during the evening.

Visit pinchos for a variety of grilled mouthwatering dishes & delicious beverages.

surfside beach Aruba

Dine on a private pier overlooking the water.




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There’s an event that both locals and visitors should attend – Experience San Nicolas World Animal Day.

If you’re on the island, consider adding this to your to do list.

Experience San Nicolas World Animal Day

There’s going to be different happenings in the main streets of San Nicolas dedicated to animal day which is on October 4, 2017 (but celebrated this Sunday by Cosecha).

All events will take place on October 1, 2017 in the main streets of San Nicolas from 10:00 AM to 14:00 PM.

If you want to know what exactly is going to take place during experience San Nicolas world animal day, please read further….

experience san nicolas world animal day

Museum of Industry

The museum of industry is located inside a iconic water tower. Inside the museum of industry, a guide will tell you the remarkable story of the industrial development on Aruba during the last two centuries in San Nicolas.

You can also take part in the anniversary challenge at the museum of industry.

The anniversary challenge is a set of 5 questions related to San Nicolas in which you can win weekend stays and other interesting prizes during the day.

Entrance is 2 for 1 and it’s open from 10:00 AM to 14:00 PM.

Community Museum

Enter the community museum and see all the antiquities and old artifacts that will take you through a passage in time of San Nicolas.

The community museum is located adjacent to the central bus station (in San Nicolas) and is also open from 10:00 AM to 14:00 PM.

Visit the community museum to get a glimpse of the lifestyle back in the days.

Entrance at the community museum is also 2 for 1.




Cosecha Art Gallery

Cosecha is offering a free workshop by local artist Robert Solognier also known as “Kala” at their creative center.

During the workshop you will learn how to make a bowl out of old newspaper. The bowl is going to be turtle shaped in connection with world animal day. There’s also paint available for you to color your bowl the way you like it.

Cosecha will be open for the workshop from 11:00 AM to 15:00 PM.

experience san nicolas world animal day

Learn how to make this colorful paper bowl…

Other Things To Do At Experience San Nicolas

There’s much more to do during experience San Nicolas….

Different stores and shops will be open that offer various deals and promotions.

For example, O’neil Caribbean Kitchen, if you want to eat local and Caribbean dishes.

The owner of O’Neil was the chef at Jamaica Mi Krazy. After they closed he decided to continue the soul food legacy on his own.

Or you can visit Joy’s, which is a buffet style restaurant that sells the food per kilo.

Other stores that are also going to be open in the main streets of San Nicolas are, El Gayo Rojo (great for refreshments and snacks) WEMA (for all your hardware supplies) and clothing department stores (Alankar, JM Enterprises and La Aruba Store).

If you’re on the island, you should take the time to visit San Nicolas to wander the streets and appreciate all the beautiful street art, restaurants and free workshop at Cosecha.

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There are plenty of things you can do in Aruba, but many people decide to hang around the beach and pool all day long, and never really leave their resort.

If you’re also visiting the island, but don’t know what you should do for fun, other than the beach, consider one of my many “one day in Aruba” itineraries. 

Things You Can Do in Aruba

Aruba is a small island, but the amount of things one can do doesn’t disappoint.

This itinerary doesn’t cover everything there is to do on the island, because you only have one day, but the following list of 7 exciting things you can do in Aruba promises, a feel for the islands landmarks, a taste of a local dish, plenty of relaxing time at a secret beach and great place to end the day!

If you’re not sure if you’re going to rent a car, think about it again, because you will need a car to visit these sites. Read more about our car rental rates here.

So what should you do, if you’re looking for things you can do in Aruba for one day?

things you can do in Aruba

Pin it, if you have pinterest!

1. Take A Tour at The California Lighthouse

The lighthouse was closed for many years, but there’s enough reason to see the tower now, because it has been completely refurbished recently and is open for the public.

So, after breakfast, head over to the northwestern tip of the island, for a guided tour and historic explanation about the California Lighthouse (tour starts at 8:30 AM).

things you can do in Aruba

Take a tour of the California lighthouse.

Why should you visit the California lighthouse?

For one reason only, to soak in the best view on the island from the highest point in this area!

Important to know….

  • Tour starts at 8:30 AM (and takes 45 minutes to complete)
  • Tickets can be bought at the lighthouse for $8.00 per person
  • You can buy refreshments at a nearby shaved ice truck
  • There’s also an Italian restaurant near the lighthouse.

Click here to read more about the California Lighthouse

2. See The Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins

After seeing the spectacular backdrop at the lighthouse, make your way towards the northern coast of the island, to see the remainder of an abandoned gold mill that once processed ores during Aruba’s own gold rush in the nineteenth century.

This place is called bushiribana gold mill ruins and it’s a popular stop with the local tours, so you should see it too!

things you can do in Aruba

There’s still might be gold hidden around here.

Things you can do here: climb the rocks, take pictures and breathe the fresh air of Aruba’s coast.

There’s a truck right next to the gold mill ruins that sells refreshments (and they also have bathrooms you can use, for $1.00).

If you want to squeeze in another attraction, check out the natural bridge, on the same dirt road, not far from the gold mill.

3. Climb The Casibari Rock Formation

Head out from bushiribana to the city of Paradera, to climb one of Aruba’s wonders – a natural rock formation.

Walk around this beautiful park, to see the islands native flora and fauna.

The natural boulders are stacked on each other, creating the highest lookout point in Paradera. 

things you can do in Aruba

Climb the big boulders to get a beautiful view of the island.

How did these boulders get stacked on top of each other? I don’t know, that’s the mysterious thing about this site. One things I know for sure, the view from the top of the rock formation is breathtaking. 

There’s a bar, right next to the park entrance, they sell local souvenirs and refreshments. You can also use the bathroom here, if you need to.

Related – 21 Unusual & Unique Activities in Aruba

4. Eat Fried Fish & Shrimps For Lunch

After you’ve seen some of the islands popular landmarks, it will be probably be in the middle of the day already, and if you’re like me, you’d be feeling hungry. So, what’s the best way to deal with your cravings? With one of the island’s favorite dish – fried fish! 

things you can do in Aruba

Enjoy your basket of fried fish, shrimps and a few cold Beers.

I’m sure you’d want to eat where the locals eat, and one of the many places locals like to go is to zeerovers, located in the city Savaneta.

The menu is simple (and inexpensive), but delicious! On the list of food they serve is fresh fish, shrimps, flatbread (called pan-bati), fries, plantains and their homemade tartar sauce. 

The place has a great local ambiance and is the perfect way to relax, so you can continue with the remaining activities in your itinerary.




5. Experience Peace Near Lourdes Grotto

When you’re done at zeerovers, drive to the south side of the island, to see the Lourdes grotto, one of the most religious sites in Aruba. Named in commemoration of the famous religious landmark in France, the Lourdes grotto is a unique Roman Catholic shrine built into the rocks.

There’s a statue of the virgin Mary in the rocks, and it is said to protect and bless all those who visit her.

things you can do in Aruba

A place to say thank you and refection.

Why should you visit the Lourdes grotto?

Because it’s a hidden gem in Aruba, so if you have the chance to see it for yourself, you should!

Many visitors (including some locals) don’t know this even exist.

Click here to read more about Lourdes grotto here.

6. Private Time At a Secluded Beach

Every itinerary needs to include some beach time, and this one features one of Aruba’s secret beaches.

Located in San Nicolas, there’s a secluded beach called Grape field. It’s perfect for undisturbed long walks, wading in the sea, or just to have a “private time” at the beach with your family.

Read more about Grape field beach here.

things you can do in Aruba

A private beach all to yourself.

7. Spend Happy Hour At Bugaloe

At the end of your private beach session, head back to your resort, and have your little moment to, relax, freshen up and put on your casual clothes for happy hour, at one of the island’s most popular beach bars – bugaloe! 

things you can do in Aruba

End the day with a bang at bugaloe.

Happy hour starts at 5:00 PM until 6:00 PM (special prices on selected drinks and beers).

Enjoy a nice dinner and drinks, on the pier overlooking the sunset in Aruba.

Enjoy the evening with live music and dancing as the rum keeps flowing until late into the night.

Read more about bugaloe beach bar here.

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If you haven’t been to Aruba for a while, you might not recognize it anymore. Because there’s a lot of new things in Aruba, especially in the downtown area and the main street.

Despite all the new things in Aruba, there’s still more developments being made around the island.

So what are new things in Aruba that are noteworthy since your last visit in Aruba? (or what should you look forward to).

What are the new places you should try for dinner? Or which new bars have live music, dancing and happy hour? Are there beaches that finally have facilities so you can change or use the bathroom?

8 New Things in Aruba You Should Look Forward To

A few years ago beach shacks were hardly to be found on the island, if you wanted a refreshment or a quick lunch, you had to buy it from the closest food truck or shave ice stand. But now all of this is changing, because beach shacks are being constructed on Aruba’s beaches. 

Starting from Arashi, a public beach in the north-western part of the island, there’s a new beach shack.

It’s called Arashi Beach Shack.

This beach shack has been open for a while already. They offer refreshments and local snacks. There’s also a changing room, bathrooms and an outdoor shower.

Now you have more reasons to spend the whole day snorkeling and relaxing on Arashi….

new in Aruba

View of the Arashi beach shack.

Two other beach shacks are being constructed near Eagle beach.

The first beach shack is on the beach strip close to MVC Beach Aruba and the second beach shack is next to Costa Linda Beach Resort.

Both of these beach shacks also offer snacks, drinks, changing rooms, bathrooms and outdoor shower.

They are not done with these two beach shacks yet, but it looks like they will be officially open very soon.

new in Aruba

Beautiful mural from coco loco beach shack

Front view of the coco loco beach shack.

new in Aruba

New beach shack close to MVC Aruba on Eagle Beach.

New Bars You Should Check Out

There a few bars that recently opened in Aruba, but two of them are considered to be “new things in Aruba” and are creating a lot of buzz between visitors and locals.

They have been recently opened a few months ago, which is still “new enough” to call hidden gems on the island….

The first bar you should look forward to visit is called legends pub, located right in the back of McDonald’s in the high rise area. It’s a great place to visit for live music, food, drinks and to watch your favorite sporting events on big screen tv’s….

new in aruba

Nice place to relax and listen to live music.

House music is becoming a lifestyle right now for many people around the world and if you enjoy good house music you should visit the new heart music bar.

Located right on the sasaki weg highway (next to Pizza Hut), it’s a walk in bar with an outdoor garden area and decks to dance.

A lot of locals go here, because it’s awesome place to hang out. The inside of the cafe has a mesmerizing design with a backyard and comfortable couches under the blue sky.

Heart music bar is not only known for their house music, but they also have a very interesting 4 hour long happy hour (7.00 – 11.00 pm). Their happy hour are 2 for 1 on drinks and $2.80 for a beer.

If you like house music, you should visit while you’re in Aruba….

new in Aruba

Local spot for house music and drinks.

New Souvenir Shops in the Downtown Area

One of the new things you should look out for in Aruba is a beautiful little plaza near the cruise port area. It’s a small shopping center that going to display local arts and souvenirs. There’s also a terrace area where you can sit with palm trees providing shade.

This plaza is something I look forward to visiting when constructions are finalized. And if you like to buy local souvenirs or arts you should visit also on your next trip to Aruba.

new in Aruba

New shopping area near the cruise port.

New Airport Hotel & Business Center

One of the news things in Aruba that made this list is a airport hotel & business center.

The hotel is far from done, but the developments are pretty far already. 

This hotel is going to be perfect if you’re traveling and staying in Aruba for a day or two (or a few hours) and you don’t want to stay in the hotel area.

If you have some business or meetings to take care of while doing a layover in Aruba, this is going to be the place to be.

It’s going to be different to stay on other part of the island, but it’s always good to try something new….

new in Aruba

Aruba Airport Hotel & Business Center

new in Aruba

Steel structure for the new airport hotel.

New Places To Stay

Aruba has a lot of places to stay, from apartments and villas to big brand name resorts.

One of the developments that have been going on for a while now is a new condominium from the Azure beach residences. This condominium is located close to the Amsterdam beach manor.

It’s far from being finished, but definitely makes the list for new things in Aruba.

So if you’re interested in buying a peace of paradise, you should look into this new condo, before it sell out!

new in Aruba

New condominium being built near Eagle beach.

If you’re going to Aruba in the coming months, plan your trip accordingly and add some of these new things in Aruba on your to do list.

More Articlesclick here to read the latest new out of Aruba in English.

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