Seven Must-See Destinations in Aruba

Aruba has long been a popular destination for summer vacations and for good reasons. Aruba boasts of a wonderful blend of Dutch and Aruban culture that you’ll definitely love. Here are a few must-see destinations if you’d like to tour Aruba this summer:

Oranjestad is the capital city that is found at the southern coast. It boasts of Dutch colonial architecture that were absorbed into the local culture with their pastel colors. Make sure to check out the wharf where merchants sell fresh seafood and produce which can be cooked into a refreshing meal. If vacation to you is synonymous with shopping, then Oranjestad is the just the place for you.

The Butterfly Farm is located right across the Divi Phoenix Hotel on Irausquin Boulevard. This 3,000-square-foot farm is the home of several varieties of butterflies from all over the world. It’s also filled with waterfalls and fish ponds that lend an air of mystique. Coupled with a relaxing new-age music, you’ll find yourself thoroughly relaxed and awash with peace in this lovely place.

Arikok National Park is an ecological park and wilderness preserve that makes up of 20 per cent of the entire land area of Aruba. It has 21 miles of hiking trails where you can view the island’s native plants and animals. Inside the park are the famous divi-divi trees, cacti, aloe plants, and other tropical blooms. If you’re into animals, watch the local rabbits, Kododo Blauw lizards, and the Cascabel rattlesnakes in their natural habitat. 

You can’t leave Aruba without seeing the natural bridge that spans 100 feet. It is a coral formation which was formed after the endless beatings of the sea. Because of this, a natural land bridge was formed that is about 23 feet above sea level. Don’t look to see where the bridge goes because it does not go anywhere but right at the beach where you find it.

Along with the Natural Bridge is the Natural Pool which might be hard to get to on horseback or an all-terrain vehicle. However, once there, you’ll be thankful that you’ve braved the rough trip. The ocean waves crash up and over the rocks that surround the natural pool. On calm days, you will be sure to have fun.

If you want to have some diving fun, you should not miss the Antilla as it is an impressive wreck of a submarine. You can also view some fish, green moray eels, and sea turtles that swim around this wreck. You don’t need to be a pro to dive and see the ship’s structure. The depth of the dive is about 50 feet at its maximum but you can view the wreck even at 35 feet.

Another historical point of interest is the California Lighthouse which was built in 1914. It was named after a wooden ship sailing from England to Venezuela and was run aground in 1891. Around the lighthouse are acres of flat land called California White Sand Dunes which are perfect for dune surfing.

Relax and enjoy your stay in Aruba and you’ll be sure to go home well-rested and refreshed. You’ll love Aruba so much that you’ll return to this island again and again. Aruba travel information is available and so is an Aruba Vacation Guide.