24 Non-touristy and Unique Things to Do in Aruba

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Are you looking for the most amazing and unique things to do in Aruba?

The island of Aruba is a beautiful Caribbean paradise famous for its crystal-clear waters and pink flamingos on the beach. But the island is so much more than that.

The tourist attractions in Aruba are jam-packed with people flocking to them from all over the world. It can be hard to find amazing and unique things to do in Aruba that few know about.

PRO TRAVEL TIP: Aruba is part of a string of islands known as the ABC islands of the Caribbean – Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao.

I spent a lot of time on this Dutch Caribbean Island last year, and I know all about the ins and outs of the islands.

To help you plan your trip, I have created this list of unique things to do in Aruba.

Let’s dive in.

1. Swim in a Natural Pool (Conchi)

The Conchi Natural Pool is an incredible natural swimming pool in Aruba.

It is nestled within the rocky coastline of Arikok National Park and is a great place to check out on your trip.

Visiting the natural pool is my favourite unique thing to do in Aruba.

2. Explore Arikok National Park

The Arikok National Park is a big part of Aruba’s landscape since it covers about 20% of the island, making it one of the largest parks in the Caribbean. Because the park is so vast, you can enjoy the quiet without other people.

The stunningly unique national park offers hiking trails, ancient caves many different animals. You can see a wide variety of wildlife, including iguanas, burrowing owls, and other animals. It is excellent for hiking, exploring, and taking stunning pictures.

Rent a buggy or a 4×4, and let the adventure begin. Young and old will love the experience and have a great time exploring the beautiful natural landscape of Aruba.

3. Fall in Love at the Aruba Butterfly Farm

The Butterfly Farm in Aruba is a beautiful and unique attraction that should not be missed on your trip to Aruba.

It is located on the famous Palm Beach, home to over 2500 sweet creatures.

Wear something colourful, and then they might sit down on you—a fantastic opportunity for a picture.

Many people go to Aruba solely for the flamingos, so places like the Butterfly Farm and the Bubali Bird Sanctuary are underrated places on the island.

4. Climb the Aruba California Lighthouse

The California Lighthouse is an iconic landmark in Aruba that should be on your agenda.

It is located on the island’s northwest tip, and you have a fantastic view of the water from the small hill.

The lighthouse was built in 1916; it is no longer in use.

However, you can climb to the top for a fantastic view.

5. Hike Hooiberg

The Hooiberg is a 185-meter-high volcanic mountain that is located in central Aruba. Hiking the Hooiberg is one of my favourite unique things to do in Aruba.

It is the second-highest peak on the island. Hiking up is well worth it since it offers breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea.

From there you also have a great view of the surrounding countryside. There are also some impressively giant cacti to see.

6. Alto Vista Chapel

The Alto Vista Chapel is a historic chapel in Aruba, and you should check it out.

The chapel was built by Spanish missionaries in 1750 and dedicated to Jesus. It is located on the island’s north side, near the town of Noord.

The Alto Vista Chapel has become an iconic symbol of Aruba. It is one of the must-do things on the island. It is also a tremendous instagrammable spot in Aruba.

7. See the Flamingos of Renaissance Island

Renaissance Island might not be one of the most unique things to do in Aruba, but it is worth it. Seeing the flamingos in Aruba is a great experience.

If you can get one of the few spots open daily to visit the island, you can see iguanas and flamingos on a beach and spend a super relaxed day filled with ultimate luxury.

Of course, this trip has a hefty price tag, but it is worth it. Since the spots are so limited, the experience feels exclusive and non-touristy.

8. Shop for Souvenirs at the Aruba Aloe Factory

The Aruba Aloe Factory and Museum is one of my favourite spots on the island.

You can get a free tour and see how the healing plant is grown and manufactured into many products.

A tour is a great way to learn about the island and one of its most important export products. The Aruba Aloe Factory is also an excellent spot to buy sustainable souvenirs from local production.

9. Sunbathe at Baby Beach

Baby Beach is a stunning beach in Aruba and one of my favourite spots.

It is far off the beaten tracks, but the drive is well worth it.

Baby Beach is a great spot to snorkel, relax and have a fun beach day.

PRO TRAVEL TIP: You can also check out Rodgers Beach since it is around the corner from Baby Beach or Calculated Traveller’s favourite beach – Malmok Beach.

10. Search for Treasure on a Jolly Pirate Sail

The Jolly Pirate Sail is one of the most fun excursions in Aruba for young people and families.

The wooden pirate ship will sail with you around the coast of Aruba. My favourite part about this ship is the rope from where you can flip yourself in the water.

Jolly Pirate Sail offers many snorkel tours and even Aruba Sunset Sails.

11. Go Wild at Donkey Sanctuary Aruba

The Aruba Donkey Sanctuary in Santa Cruz is a fantastic, non-touristy thing to do.

You can visit the sweet, rescued donkeys and even feed them. This place also offers a great insight into the history of Aruba, when the donkeys were brought over to help the slavers work on the plantations.

The sanctuary is also a great place to visit with children in Aruba.

PRO TRAVEL TIP: When in Aruba and you want to call something “sweet” – use the phrase DUSHI.

12. Go All-inclusive De Palm Island

De Palm Island is an all-inclusive private island in Aruba. At a significant cost, it has been transformed into a play area for families and younger people.

While De Palm Island is a bit touristic, it offers water activities, snorkelling, banana boat rides, and more.

The experience is unique, something you should check out in Aruba.

13. Climb the Casibari Rock Formation

The Casibari Rock Formation is a unique geological site in the heart of Aruba.

It is just a short drive from Oranjestad, the capital city.

The formation is a cluster of massive boulders and rock naturally shaped by wind and water over the years.

It is an excellent and unique place to visit in Aruba.

14. Go Underwater at Boca Catalina

The beach of Boca Catalina is relatively tiny compared to some of Aruba’s other famous beaches.

The secluded atmosphere adds to its charm. However, the true beauty of Boca Catalina lies underwater, where you can admire the stunning marine life.

The calm waters also make it a perfect spot for families with kids.

15. Search for Street Art in San Nicolas Village

San Nicolas Village is a super fun and non-touristy place in Aruba.

The village is far off the beaten track; you can find it on your way to Baby Beach.

A national street art competition was held in the village a while ago. Nowadays, many walls are covered with beautiful, colourful murals.

You can see impressive street art and have an excellent spot for some Instagram pictures from Aruba.

16. Learn while Playing at Philip’s Animal Garden

Philip’s animal sanctuary is another of my favourite non-touristic places in Aruba, with many animals, such as parrots, reptiles, and other mammals. Here, you can feed, pet, and, most importantly, learn about the animals in a safe and relaxed environment.

17. Have Dinner at the Flying Fishbone

The Flying Fishbone is one of Aruba’s best beachfront restaurants.

You will be served dinner at the beach and sit in the water while enjoying the delicious food – a unique experience you will forever remember.

They serve succulent seafood, fun cocktails, and superb Caribbean cuisine. Let yourself be surprised by this excellent restaurant’s delightful dinner in the ocean.

18. Check out the Ayo Rock Formations

The Ayo Rock Formations are some monolithic rock boulders and a relaxed, non-touristy place to visit in Aruba.

The impressive formations genuinely create a sense of awe and wonder. You can explore the area and learn about geology at the same time.

Check out the Casibari Rock Formations in Aruba if rock formations are your thing.

19. Go Deep Atlantis Submarines Expedition

If you want a unique thing to do in Aruba, the Atlantis submarine experience must be on your list.

You can go on an underwater adventure with a submarine and tour the coastline of Aruba.

You can enjoy stunning views of Aruba’s marine life without getting wet.

This fun and educational excursion is an excellent choice for young and old.

20. Visit Historic Gold Mill Ruins

Aruba has a fascinating history of mining and smelting gold. You can still see the remnants of that exciting time on the island.

There are a few spots to visit on the island if you are interested in gold mining. Check out the historical mines in the Miralamar at Arikok National Park or the Balashi Gold Smeltery near the Spanish Lagoon.

The deserted Bushiribana factory is also worth a visit.

Since many people don’t know about these exciting places, they are great non-touristy and unique things to do in Aruba.

21. Relax and Explore Mangel Halto Beach

Mangel Halto Beach is unique in many ways.

It is a super small and non-touristy beach off the beaten tracks in the fishermen’s town of Savaneta.

Mangel Halto Beach is beloved among locals; you can swim, snorkel and shore-dive there. But the best feature of the beach is the mangroves.

Nowhere else on the island can you see such beautiful mangrove forests—the perfect place to relax and explore.

22. Snorkel Antilla Shipwreck

The Antilla Shipwreck is one of Aruba’s most unique places to visit.

You can reach the shipwreck with a snorkel boat trip or a diving excursion.

Your boat trip will take you right above the shipwreck—an impressive and unique place to snorkel at the same time.

These excursions are primarily for good swimmers since the current is relatively strong.

23. Explore Guadirikiri Cave

The Guadirikiri Cave is also located in the Arikok National Park and is an underrated spot in Aruba.

You can see two big chambers flooded with sunlight from above in the caves. You can also check out petroglyphs and limestone terraces.

My favourite part was the brown and red Arawak pictographs visible all over the island.

24. Go Horseback Riding

Last but not least, horseback riding is becoming more and more popular in Aruba. However, it is still a unique and underrated thing to do on the island.

The friendly people at the stables have horses for experienced riders and beginners, and they offer great tours around the island on horseback.

Who does not want to gallop with a horse along the water on a beach? Aruba active vacations are super underrated.

Where to Stay in Aruba

If you are looking for a great place to stay in Aruba without the tourists, I suggest booking an Airbnb in Savaneta.

Savaneta is a small fisherman’s town with a beautiful beach off the beaten tracks. They have lovely vacation rentals and houses there that you can enjoy without other tourists.

If you don’t mind a livelier atmosphere, check out the fun hotels at Palm Beach and Eagle Beach.

My favourite hotels in Aruba are:

– Divi Phoenix Resort Aruba

– Boardwalk Boutique Hotel

– Renaissance Wind Creek Resort Aruba (perfect if you want to spot the flamingos)

Aruba is one happy island – so wherever you stay, you will have a great time.

Conclusion: Non-Touristy and Unique Things to Do in Aruba

These were my favourite unique things to do in Aruba. As you can see, you can visit many places on the island without other tourists nearby.

Aruba has a lot to offer historic places, stunning natural parks, crystal clear waters, and fascinating hidden beaches. Lovely animal sanctuaries and sunken shipwrecks are awaiting you.

Aruba has a reputation as a party island, but from personal experience, there is more to the island than meets the eye.

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Guest writer Sabrina is a passionate travel blogger and content creator. She writes itineraries and tips for beautiful destinations, cruises and road trips – focusing on the quality of experiences over quantity.