Aruba Lines Up 10 Top Holiday Activities

Travellers heading to a new holiday destination often face the same dilemma – what to do while we’re there.

‘No problem’ is the answer from the Dutch Caribbean island of Aruba, which has prepared a list of the top 10 things to do – apart from simply relaxing on a white sand beach as the Caribbean Sea laps your toes, that is!

1. Learn to surf: Aruba is a mecca for watersports fans, recognised as a top diving and snorkelling. And if you’ve ever fancied conquering the waves on a surfboard, Aruba is the place for you! With steady breezes, Aruba is  recognised as one of the best wind and kite-surf destinations in the Caribbean. The island boasts a number of watersports companies offering lessons for beginners and friendly locals are always happy to pass on tips. Expect to pay in the region of US$95 (approx. £73) for a two and a half hour surf board lesson (based on minimum of two people), while board rental is around $35 (£27) for a full day.
2. Dive, dive, Dive: Take a trip on a submarine. Atlantis Submarines operates the largest civilian submarine in the Caribbean. With 48 seats, it dives to depths of 45 metres for a close-up view of shipwrecks, coral and exotic fish. Passengers must be at least fours years of age. The trip takes 1hour 45 minutes and costs US$99 for adults, $59 for children aged four to 12.
3. Discover the romantic allure of Baby Beach: The seven-mile strip of the Eagle and Palm Beach has been voted as one of the top three beaches in the world by TripAdvisor, however locals will head towards the southeastern end of the island. Baby Beach has taken its name from its shallow waters which are safe enough even for a baby – although many may argue that it is actually because the beach is so romantic that a lot of babies are conceived there!
4. Explore Aruba's untouched environs in Arikok National Park: Making up nearly 20 per cent of the island’s total landmass, Arikok National Park is home to a number of indigenous species of wildlife, flora and fauna, as well as historical caves, which feature ancient Indian paintings. For a truly unique experience, you can have a moon walking tour through the park once a month, when it is full moon.
5. Take up a new sport: Known as the birthplace of beach tennis, Aruba beckons world-renown pros and amateurs alike to explore this competitive yet recreational sport. Aruban beach tennis is similar to traditional tennis with a bit of beach volleyball and badminton, two players on each team volley a pressureless tennis ball back and forth over the net without letting it hit the sand. Sign up for lessons with a local pro and become a master at this fun beach sport at the Aruba Beach Tennis Clubhouse at the Tropicana Resort located on Eagle Beach.
6. Strictly fun on the dance floor: Take to the floor Aruba-style. The range of dances popular on the island are fun, informal and an opportunity for everyone to step out. Top dances are salsa, meringue, kizomba, rueda and bachata – all of which can be learned at local dance schools. With salsa and meringue in particular, there are often free session and demonstrations for visitors in bars and at hotels.
7. Enjoy an Ariba Aruba at the famous Charlie’s Bar: Head to San Nicolas, Aruba’s second largest town, for one of Aruba’s oldest institutions. Charlie’s Bar is encrusted with all kinds of memorabilia since 1941, when it first opened its doors. Here, try an Ariba Aruba, the island’s best-known cocktail made with Coecoei (a crimson liquor unique to Aruba) – or quench your thirst with an icy bottle of Balashi, Aruba’s very own beer.
8. Get on an off-road Jeep adventure: Discover Aruba’s desert-like landscape tearing across rocky tracks and through cacti forests. Explore the ruins of 18th Century Spanish gold mines, admire the beautiful natural bridges, take in magnificent views – and after the dusty journey, cool down with a swim in the crystal clear waters of the Natural Pool.
9. Sail away on a sunset cruise: Take Aruba’s most idyllic aspects and set sail with them, as you watch the pristine beaches skim by. Under the rays of the setting sun, lounge below by the open bar, enjoying tasty tropical snacks and assorted cool cocktails, or stay on deck, taking in a refreshing breeze and the sights along the shoreline.
10. Go for a quiet horseback ride: Aruba's topography offers a variety of exotic locations for adventurous visitors (and not only): from the challenging sand dunes to the desert-like plains that will make you feel like the star of your own western motion picture... Riding experience is not required, but suntan lotion is recommended!