From thrilling water sports to cultural experiences, here’s your comprehensive guide to the best activities in Aruba. We’ve included prices, booking tips, and insider advice to help you plan the perfect island adventure.
Water Activities
1. Snorkeling at Mangel Halto
Price: Free (self-guided) or $50-80 (guided tour)
- Crystal clear waters
- Abundant marine life
- Reef accessibility
- Best morning conditions
- Equipment rental nearby
2. Sunset Sailing
Price: $80-120 per person
- Multiple operators available
- Open bar included
- Light snacks provided
- Photography opportunities
- 2-3 hour duration
Recommended Companies:
- Red Sail Sports
- Pelican Adventures
- Jolly Pirates
3. Private Boat Charter
Price: $600-1,200 (4-6 hours)
- Customizable itinerary
- Snorkeling stops
- Catering available
- Private experience
- Flexible timing
4. Flamingo Beach (Renaissance Island)
Price: $125 day pass
- Iconic photo opportunities
- Private island access
- Beach facilities
- Restaurant access
- Limited daily passes
Adventure Activities
5. UTV Tour of Arikok National Park
Price: $150-200 per UTV (double occupancy)
- Natural pool visit
- Cave explorations
- Desert landscapes
- Gold mine ruins
- Half-day adventure
Tour Highlights:
- Natural Pool
- Bushiribana Ruins
- Ayo Rock Formation
- Hidden beaches
- California Lighthouse
6. Horseback Riding
Price: $90-120 per person
- Beach rides available
- Sunrise/sunset options
- All skill levels
- Photo opportunities
- 2-3 hour tours
7. Scuba Diving
Price: $150-200 (two-tank dive)
- Wreck diving
- Reef exploration
- Certification courses
- Equipment included
- Professional guides
8. Deep Sea Fishing
Price: $500-1,000 (half/full day)
- Professional equipment
- Experienced crew
- Catch preparation
- All skill levels
- Private charters
Cultural Experiences
9. San Nicolas Art Tour
Price: $40-60 per person
- Street art exploration
- Local culture
- Artist meetings
- Photography opportunities
- Cultural insights
10. Culinary Walking Tour
Price: $70-90 per person
- Local tastings
- Cultural history
- Downtown exploration
- Small groups
- Expert guides
11. Aloe Factory Tour
Price: Free
- Factory tour
- Product demonstrations
- Shopping opportunity
- Historical information
- Self-guided options
Nature & Sightseeing
12. Arikok National Park Hiking
Price: $11 park entrance
- Multiple trails
- Cave paintings
- Desert landscape
- Guided tours available
- Early morning recommended
13. California Lighthouse
Price: Free (viewing), $10 (tower access)
- Sunset views
- Photo opportunities
- Restaurant nearby
- Historical site
- North point views
14. Casibari Rock Formation
Price: Free
- Hiking trails
- Island views
- Photo opportunities
- Natural formation
- Easy access
Unique Experiences
15. Submarine Tour
Price: $100-130 per person
- Underwater views
- Shipwreck viewing
- Marine life
- Air-conditioned
- Unique experience
16. De Palm Island
Price: $120-150 (all-inclusive)
- Water park
- Snorkeling
- All-inclusive food/drinks
- Family friendly
- Full day activity
17. Alto Vista Chapel
Price: Free
- Historical site
- Peaceful setting
- Photo opportunities
- Cultural significance
- North coast views
Evening Entertainment
18. Kukoo Kunuku Party Bus
Price: $80-100 per person
- Island tour
- Dinner included
- Open bar
- Entertainment
- Group atmosphere
19. Sunset Cocktail Cruise
Price: $70-90 per person
- Open bar
- Snacks included
- Music
- Social atmosphere
- Photo opportunities
20. Casino Experience
Price: Variable
- Multiple locations
- Entertainment
- Restaurants nearby
- Professional dealers
- Free entrance
Shopping & Markets
21. Downtown Shopping
Price: Free to explore
- Duty-free shops
- Local markets
- Souvenir stores
- Art galleries
- Harbor area
22. Local Craft Markets
Price: Free to explore
- Local artisans
- Unique souvenirs
- Cultural items
- Bargaining welcome
- Multiple locations
Family Activities
23. Butterfly Farm
Price: $15-20 per person
- Guided tours
- Educational
- Photo opportunities
- Morning recommended
- Family friendly
24. Philip’s Animal Garden
Price: $10-15 per person
- Rescued animals
- Guided tours
- Educational
- Family friendly
- Support local rescue
25. Beach Tennis
Price: $20-30 (equipment rental)
- Local sport
- Equipment rental
- Lesson available
- Social activity
- Multiple locations
Booking Tips
When to Book
- High Season: 2-3 weeks ahead
- Popular tours: 1 week minimum
- Private tours: 2+ weeks
- Holiday period: 1 month+
- Last-minute possible in low season
Money-Saving Tips
- Book direct
- Package deals
- Group rates
- Low season discounts
- Early booking discounts
Important Notes
- Cancel policy varies
- Weather considerations
- Physical requirements
- Age restrictions
- Equipment included/needed
Best Activities By Interest
For Adventure Seekers
- UTV Tours
- Scuba Diving
- Deep Sea Fishing
- Rock Climbing
- Jet Skiing
For Relaxation
- Sunset Sailing
- Beach Days
- Spa Visits
- Yoga Classes
- Island Tours
For Families
- De Palm Island
- Butterfly Farm
- Animal Garden
- Beach Activities
- Snorkeling
For Couples
- Private Sailing
- Sunset Dining
- Horseback Riding
- Spa Days
- Wine Tasting
Remember to book popular activities in advance, especially during high season (December-April). Many tour operators offer pickup from major hotels, so transportation is usually not a concern.