Aruba stands out as one of the most beautiful islands in the whole Caribbean. Situated outside Hurricane Alley, the weather is consistently warm and sunny, making it an ideal year-round destination for travelers from both the USA and Europe. But Aruba is much more than just beautiful beaches.

Small as it is, the island is full of amazing sights. From dramatic rock formations to pink flamingos walking alongside you on the beach, visitors are constantly surprised. Here is your guide to the best things to see in Aruba.

Eagle Beach: One of the Caribbean’s Finest Shores

Eagle Beach is one of the top-rated beaches in the Caribbean. This beach has both the softest white sand you will find in the Caribbean, and it has the clearest and most beautiful turquoise waters. As an added bonus, this area is much quieter than the northern end of Palm Beach where all of the major resorts are located.

What makes Eagle Beach special:

• Calm, crystal-clear water perfect for swimming
• Less commercial than Palm Beach
• One of the best spots on the island to watch the sunset
• Easy to reach by taxi, bus, or scooter

If you only visit one beach in Aruba, make it this one.

Flamingo Beach: A Truly Unforgettable Experience

Flamingo Beach is a private beach that is part of Renaissance Island. Located just offshore from Oranjestad, Renaissance Island is a privately-owned resort operated by Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba. Guests at the Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort have free use of the Flamingo Beach. If you’re not a guest at the hotel, there’s a way to visit. For approximately $99, you can buy a “day pass” to go to the Flamingo Beach.

What awaits you there:

• A resident flock of real pink flamingos
• A calm, sheltered shoreline
• An adults-only section
• Stunning views of the Caribbean Sea

California Lighthouse: Sweeping Views from the North

The California Lighthouse (located on the northwest corner of Aruba) was named for the SS. California, which sank offshore in 1891. Admission into this 30-meter-high lighthouse is $5, with hours of operation from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

• Climb to the top for a full 360-degree view of the island
• Watch the sunset from the top — it is spectacular
• Visit the on-site Italian restaurant for dinner with coastal views
• No reservation needed — just turn up and go in

Sunset is the best time to visit. The view across the western coastline is absolutely breathtaking.

Arikok National Park and the Natural Pool (Conchi)

Approximately twenty percent of Aruba is located inside Arikok National Park, an untamed and uncharted land mass from the developed beach resorts.

One of the most popular attractions within the Arikok National Park is the Conchi Natural Pool. This natural swimming pool is created by volcanic rock and has ocean waves crashing over it as they flow through the rocky channels surrounding it.

• Accessible only by ATV, horseback, or on foot
• Home to hundreds of bird species and the rare Aruban rattlesnake
• Ancient limestone caves with indigenous rock art
• One of the most remote and rewarding spots on the island

Book a guided ATV or jeep tour to reach the natural pool safely and comfortably.

Oranjestad: The Colourful Capital City

On foot, explore Oranjestad, Aruba’s capital city.
Oranjestad, Aruba has colorful Dutch colonial architecture. One of the things we like about visiting Oranjestad, Aruba is that it is a place where you can enjoy Caribbean warmth and European-style architecture.

Top sights in Oranjestad:

• Fort Zoutman Historical Museum — Aruba’s oldest building
• The Archaeological Museum of Aruba
• Colourful pastel shopfronts and local restaurants on the main street
• A free trolley bus from the cruise terminal that stops at key landmarks