City Guides: Things to do While Boating in Aruba
Situated off the coast of Venezuela in the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean, the island of Aruba is known for its beautiful beaches, warm climate, unique attractions and friendly locals (as well as being the A to the ABC islands of Bonaire and Curacao). Whether you’re moored at a marina, anchored at a resort or docked at a private boat slip for rent, there’s something for your whole crew in Aruba. Spend the day snorkeling, swimming or relaxing along beautiful stretches of soft white sand like Eagle Beach, Palm Beach, Baby Beach or Flamingo Beach. Sightseeing, diving and charter fishing trip excursions are also popular activities.
Photo: Wikimedia
Arikok National park
Photo: Wikimedia
A popular destination in Aruba is Arikok National Park. The park covers about 20% of the island and is home to a wide range of plant and animal species. Visitors can go hiking, explore the caves and rock formations and swim in natural pools. The Natural Pool, also known as the Conchi, is a hidden gem that’s well worth a visit. It’s located on the rugged northeast coast of the island and is surrounded by rocks, making it a secluded and picturesque spot to visit from private boat dock rentals.
Wind Creek Crystal Casino
Photo: Wind Creek Crystal Casino (Facebook)
Aruba has many casinos that offer a wide range of games and entertainment options. The casinos are especially popular with tourists who enjoy nightlife and games of chance. Wind Creek Crystal Casino, located at the Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort & Casino, is one of the largest and most popular casinos. It’s open 24 hours and features more than 400 slot machines and 16 table games as well as live entertainment.
Aruba Archaeological Museum
Photo: Wikimedia/Edward Erasmus
The Aruba Archaeological Museum is a must-visit for history buffs. It’s home to artifacts from the island's indigenous people and early European settlers. The museum also features exhibits on the island's geology and natural history.
California Lighthouse
Photo: Wikimedia
Looking for the best panoramic views of the island? Head to the California Lighthouse from a private boat lift for rent. The lighthouse was built in 1910 and is named after the S.S. California, a ship that sank off the coast of Aruba in 1891. Visitors can climb to the top for stunning views of the island and the surrounding sea.
Natural Bridge
Photo: Wikimedia/Paul Haberstroh
For those who want to get off the beaten path, Aruba has several hidden gems that are worth exploring. Natural Bridge is a natural rock formation that was once one of the island's most popular attractions. It collapsed in 2005 during Hurricane Katrina, but it’s still a popular attraction. There are several smaller natural bridges and arches that are worth a visit, such as the Baby Bridge and the Natural Bridge of Andicuri.
Aruba Ostrich Farm
Photo: Aruba Ostrich Farm (Facebook)
The Aruba Ostrich Farm is a fun and unique place to visit from a private boat dock rental in Aruba. Take a tour of the farm, learn all about ostriches (you can even feed them and visit the hatchery) and visit the gift shop and restaurant. The farm is along the same road that leads to the Natural Bridge, so it makes a terrific spot to add to a day trip.
Alto Vista Chapel
Photo: Wikimedia/Natalie Liao Jen
One of the most interesting things about Aruba (after its ostriches, of course) is its unique architecture. The Alto Vista Chapel is another hidden gem that is worth a visit. The current chapel was built in 1952 on the same site of the original chapel, which was built in 1750. It’s located on a hill overlooking the water. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the island and the surrounding sea from the chapel's grounds.
We hope this has given some ideas to add to an Aruba itinerary. Let us know if we missed anything!
