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Aruba Unfolded: 5 Days of Sun, Sand, and Surprising Adventures
- Hisham Ibrahim
- Oct 25, 2024
- 8 min read
Updated: Dec 21, 2024
Aruba might not be the first destination that comes to mind when thinking of a Caribbean vacation, but this tiny island is a hidden gem that deserves a spot on your travel list. While it may be less known than some of its neighbors, Aruba is packed with activities, stunning landscapes, and endless stretches of pristine beaches. Its unique geography sets it apart: a dry desert climate with high winds that sway the island's iconic divi-divi trees, and towering cactuses dotting the landscape like something out of a western movie.
One of the best parts? It barely ever rains here, which means endless days of sunshine and clear skies, making it a perfect year-round destination. Whether you’re into water sports, exploring rugged terrain, or just lounging on some of the Caribbean’s most beautiful beaches, Aruba has something for everyone. In this post, I’ll take you through my 5-day adventure on the island, from where I stayed to the must-do activities and all the tips for making the most of your trip.
Table of Contents
Itinerary Overview: 5 Days in Aruba
Below is a detailed itinerary of our adventure-packed days in Aruba. Each location and activity is marked on the Google Map provided, including hidden gems and our favorite must-see spots. While I’ve focused mainly on activities and exploration, you can find more details about restaurants and nightlife in a separate post.
Day 1: Arrival and Beach Time
Since most flights arrive in the afternoon, we used our first day to settle into our Airbnb in Savaneta and get a feel for the island’s relaxed vibe. After checking in, we headed straight to Baby Beach. This serene spot is perfect for a relaxing swim, thanks to its shallow, crystal-clear waters. We enjoyed a peaceful evening there, watching the sunset over the horizon.
TIP: Locals recommended visiting Baby Beach early in the morning for a chance to see sea turtles!
Day 2: Diving and Unique Adventures
Morning Turtles at Eagle Beach
We kicked off our day with an early start at 6 AM, opting to visit Eagle Beach instead of the Baby Beach, with the hope of spotting turtles. Our early wake-up paid off, as the beach was quiet, and we had a serene encounter with a few turtles gliding gracefully through the water. Watching these gentle creatures swim was a magical experience—definitely worth the early rise!
TIP: Turtles need to come up for air every 3 minutes or so, so you’re most likely to spot them near the surface. Early in the morning, they tend to be closer to the shore, unbothered.
Dive into Aruba’s Underwater World
After our morning with the turtles, it was time for the highlight of the day: Diving. Aruba’s clear, warm waters make it a diver’s paradise, rich with marine life and captivating underwater landscapes. We booked our dive through one of the many reputable local dive shops. For beginners, they offer "first-timer" experiences, which I took part in. A lesson and a single dive cost around $100 USD, while certified divers can enjoy two dives for a similar price.
For my first dive, I reached depths of 8 meters, exploring a sunken shipwreck left behind by the army as a training site. Descending into the blue, surrounded by schools of vibrant fish, and weaving through the ghostly remains of the shipwreck was a truly unforgettable experience. The sensation of weightlessness and the beauty of the underwater world are memories I’ll always treasure. If you visit Aruba, diving is an absolute must-do, even if you’re new to the sport.
Afternoon BloKarting Adventure
In the afternoon, we switched things up with a new adventure: BloKarting. This unique sport lets you speed across the land in a wheeled vehicle with a sail, using Aruba’s strong winds as your engine. It’s like go-karting but wind-powered! For $95 USD, you get to enjoy a thrilling ride and a new way to experience Aruba’s breezy landscape. You can find more information about it through Aruba Active Vacation.
After a few hours of wind-powered fun, we wound down the day with a trip to Arashi Beach. Known for its stunning sunsets. Watching the sky light up with shades of orange, pink, and purple was the perfect way to end such an active day.
Day 3: Arikok National Park Adventure
Morning: Biking through Arikok National Park
We dedicated Day 3 to exploring Arikok National Park, a natural gem that makes up nearly 20% of Aruba’s land. We rented mountain bikes from TRI-BIKE ARUBA for $50 USD each, including a car mount, so we could bring them directly to the park. The entry fee to the park was $15 USD per person, a small price to pay for the incredible adventure that awaited us.
Arikok is a true desert wonderland, with rocky trails, dramatic cliffs, and unique vegetation. While the biking was challenging, it allowed us to cover more ground and soak in the park’s rugged beauty. If mountain biking isn’t your style, you can explore the trails on foot, but biking is definitely the way to see more of the park’s diverse terrain in a single day. Bring WATER and SUNSCREEN !
Exploring the Caves: Fontein, Guadirikir
Our first stops were the three fascinating caves that the park is known for: Fontein Cave and Guadirikiri Cave. Each has its own charm—Fontein Cave is famous for its ancient Arawak Indian paintings, while Guadirikiri has two chambers illuminated by natural light streaming through holes in the cave’s ceiling.
TIP: Before heading into the caves, stop by the small river at the bridge near the entrance. Dip your feet in, and tiny fish will come nibble away your dead skin—a natural foot spa!
A Grueling Ride to the Natural Pool
After the caves, we aimed for the Natural Pool, one of the park’s most iconic spots. The bike ride to the Natural Pool was intense, with rocky trails and steep inclines, but the reward at the end was worth every effort. We arrived just in time to swim in the tranquil, crystal-clear waters, surrounded by jagged rock formations that shelter the pool from the crashing waves.
The Natural Pool is a hidden oasis where you can swim in calm waters while watching the sun dip toward the horizon. It’s a surreal experience to be in such a serene spot amid the wild ocean. If I were to do it again, I’d explore the caves first, then drive to the Natural Pool—yes, you can actually reach it by car if you have a 4x4 from inside the park or a normal car from outside the park. This way, you can save your energy and enjoy the pool without the challenging bike ride.
TIP : Be mindful of the strong winds in this area—they can whip up waves that wash over the rocks surrounding the pool, so keep an eye on the conditions for a safe swim.
Day 4: Windsurf and a Scenic Road Trip
The two sides of Aruba couldn’t be more different: the east coast is rugged and wild, with dramatic cliffs and crashing waves, while the west side features calm, sandy beaches perfect for relaxing. We wanted to experience both extremes on Day 4, starting with an adrenaline-filled morning at Palm Beach before embarking on a scenic road trip to the east coast.
Morning Windsurfing at Palm Beach
Palm Beach is a haven for watersports enthusiasts, thanks to Aruba’s famously strong and steady winds. It’s perfect for windsurfing, kitesurfing, and wakeboarding. We rented our windsurfing gear from Delphi Watersport, right on the beach. The equipment rental, without a lesson, cost us $40 USD for two hours. Having some basic training back in Canada, I felt confident enough to skip the lesson—but I quickly realized that I’d underestimated Aruba’s powerful winds
TIP: Plan your trip around the time of the World Wakeboard and Kitesurf Championship, if possible. We were lucky to catch part of the event during our visit.
Afternoon Road Trip Along Aruba’s East Coast
After working up an appetite on the water, we set out on a road trip along Aruba’s dramatic east coast. Our destination was the Natural Bridge, but the journey itself was just as rewarding. Driving through the island’s rugged terrain, we made stops at some of Aruba’s lesser-known gems.
Our first stop was the Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins, remnants of a 19th-century gold mine that once attracted fortune seekers to the island. The stone ruins have withstood the test of time and offer stunning views of the coast. Don’t miss climbing to the top of the tower for panoramic views of the surrounding area!
Continuing on, we reached the Natural Bridge, a famous rock formation that has been shaped over centuries by the relentless waves. While the main arch collapsed in 2005, the Baby Bridge nearby is still a must-see.
We stumbled upon a short trail leading into the nearby hills and decided to go for a run. If you love combining fitness with nature, this is the perfect spot to get your heart pumping while taking in breathtaking ocean views.
Hidden Gem: Andicuri Beach
A bit further down the road, we discovered Andicuri Beach, a secluded paradise that many tourists overlook. This sandy beach, with its rolling waves, is a local favorite—and we were lucky enough to have it almost entirely to ourselves.
To reach it, you’ll need to park near Chupa and take a short hike down, but the effort is worth it. The beach is ideal for swimming, even in the rougher waters, and if you’re feeling adventurous, you might even spot locals camping out along the shore
TIP: If you enjoyed the Natural Pool experience from Day 3, or missed it earlier, consider adding it to your Day 4 itinerary. It’s only a short drive from the Natural Bridge and makes for a great combined adventure.
Day 5 : A Day of Relaxation at De Palm Island
After three action-packed days, we wanted to end our trip on a relaxing note. That’s why we booked tickets for De Palm Island, an all-inclusive private island resort that’s just a short ferry ride from Aruba’s mainland. For $115 USD per person, the basic package includes access to water slides, banana boat rides, a snorkeling area, and unlimited food and drinks.
Morning: As soon as we arrived, we grabbed a spot near the snorkeling area. The water here is clear and teeming with vibrant tropical fish. The banana boat rides were another highlight—zipping across the waves while holding on tight is guaranteed to bring out your inner child.
Afternoon: After all the fun in the water, we headed to the buffet for a leisurely lunch. The buffet offers a range of options, from fresh seafood to Caribbean-inspired dishes. With unlimited access to the bar, we sipped cocktails by the beach and enjoyed the views of the turquoise waters, making the most of our last day in paradise.
TIP: De Palm Island also offers optional upgrades like SNUBA diving and private cabanas for those who want a more exclusive experience.
Budget
Type | Price |
Transport | 215 $ USD |
Accommodation | 280 $ USD |
Activities | 415 $ USD |
Food and Night life | 300 $ USD |
Total | 1210 $ USD |
Conclusion
Aruba surprised us in the best way possible with its mix of adventure and relaxation. From catching waves at Palm Beach to exploring the island’s wild east coast, each day brought new experiences and memories. The stunning beaches, welcoming locals, and endless sunshine make this Caribbean island an ideal destination for travelers seeking both thrill and tranquility. Whether you’re diving into the depths of a shipwreck, soaking up the sun on a private island, or simply getting lost in the beauty of the landscape, Aruba has something special for everyone.
I hope this guide inspires you to explore Aruba's hidden corners and create your own unforgettable adventure. Happy travels, and don’t forget to pack plenty of sunscreen!
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