Secrets of Aruba: Offbeat Adventures, Local Favorites, and Hidden Experiences
- Arj the wanderer
- Jul 12
- 4 min read
A Local’s Aruba — Beyond the Brochures
I still remember my first afternoon in Aruba — I had just finished snorkeling with a tour group when an elderly Aruban woman, sitting near a small shack selling coconut water, smiled and said, “You’ve seen the postcard. Now go live the story.”
That single sentence changed my entire trip.
Because Aruba isn’t just a beach. It’s a living, breathing island full of stories, hidden places, and experiences that most tourists miss. If you're ready to step off the beaten path and explore the real Aruba — as a couple, solo traveler, family, or senior — here’s your insider’s guide.
Non-Touristy Things to Do in Aruba: Where Locals Go
The Aruba you see in glossy travel ads is beautiful — but the real magic is in its backstreets, hidden beaches, and local hangouts.
Offbeat Adventures to Try:
Climb Hooiberg (Haystack Mountain): A short but steep hike with panoramic views. Locals do it at sunrise or sunset.
Swim in the Natural Pool (Conchi): Accessible via jeep or horseback through Arikok National Park. Remote, rocky, and wild.
Catch the fishermen at Zeerover: A dockside seafood shack in Savaneta where fish is caught and cooked on the spot.
Street art walk in San Nicolas: Aruba’s “Sunrise City” is filled with vibrant murals and has a creative soul few tourists explore.
Visit the Lourdes Grotto: A peaceful Catholic shrine built into a hillside by locals in 1958 — serene and spiritual.
Unique Things to Do in Aruba for Couples
Romance in Aruba goes beyond beachside dinners. Here are ways to connect deeply with your partner — and with the island.
Stargazing on the north shore: With little light pollution, places like Bushiribana Ruins or Alto Vista offer magical skies.
Rent a kayak or paddleboard at Mangel Halto: Glide through calm, clear waters in a secluded mangrove cove.
Private dinner in a cunucu (countryside) home: Some locals host quiet farm-to-table experiences far from tourist zones.
DIY picnic at Boca Catalina: Buy fresh bread, local cheese, and wine from a grocery store and enjoy a sunset meal on the rocks.
Take a salsa or bachata dance lesson: Learn to move like a local in small classes in Oranjestad.
Free Things to Do in Aruba
Yes — some of the best things in Aruba really are free.
Watch the flamingos at sunset (from afar): If you can’t access Renaissance Island, check the mangroves around the island’s south.
Relax at Arashi Beach: Quiet, calm waters and ideal for snorkeling — no entry fee or crowds.
Visit Alto Vista Chapel: Peaceful and historic, surrounded by cactus-filled hills and walking trails.
Catch a local festival or street parade: Especially during Carnival or national holidays, music and color fill the streets.
Walk the Linear Park trail: A scenic path along the coast from the airport to the cruise port, ideal for morning walks or jogging.
What to Do in Aruba for a Day: Perfect Day Itinerary
Only have one day in Aruba — maybe from a cruise ship? Here’s a unique plan that blends culture and scenery:
Morning: Start with breakfast at a local bakery (try pastechis and fresh papaya juice)
Mid-morning: Head to San Nicolas for murals and a quick stop at Baby Beach
Lunch: Eat fresh fish at Zeerover or snack on street food in Oranjestad
Afternoon: Visit Alto Vista Chapel and catch views from California Lighthouse
Sunset: Settle at Eagle Beach or Arashi for a quiet farewell to the island
Best Things to Do in Aruba for Seniors and Families
Aruba is an easy island to navigate — great roads, friendly people, and activities for all ages.
For Seniors:
Butterfly Farm: Peaceful and shaded, with guides explaining Aruba’s tropical species
Garden walks at Wilhelmina Park: Right in Oranjestad with benches and local plants
Glass-bottom boat tours: No need to snorkel — see marine life while staying dry
For Families:
Donkey Sanctuary Aruba: Free entrance, pet-friendly, and great for kids
Philip’s Animal Garden: A fun rescue zoo with exotic animals and petting areas
Submarine or semi-sub tours: Explore reefs without getting wet
Shopping and Local Culture in Aruba
Skip the souvenir shops and go where locals shop.
Cosecha in San Nicolas or Oranjestad: Local artisan marketplace for handmade art and jewelry
Royal Plaza Mall (for a walk, not a splurge): Colorful building, lovely views, and occasional music
Super Food Plaza: Great for buying local snacks, spices, and cheeses if you’re staying in an Airbnb
Renaissance Marketplace: Go in the evenings for local live music, outdoor cafes, and family-friendly vibes
Aruba Tours and Excursions: Best Picks (Including from Cruise Port)
Most cruise visitors have 6 to 8 hours — and yes, that’s enough for adventure.
Highly Rated Tours:
Arikok National Park Jeep Tour: See caves, natural bridges, and rugged cliffs
Catamaran Sail and Snorkel: Visit three snorkeling spots including Antilla Shipwreck
Island Sightseeing Bus Tour: Easygoing, informative, and great for seniors
Off-road UTV adventure: For the thrill-seekers — explore Aruba’s wild north side
Walking food tour in Oranjestad: Taste local bites and learn island history
All of the above often include cruise pickup — just book early!
FAQs: What Travelers Ask Most
Q: Is Aruba only for beach lovers? No. Aruba has caves, desert trails, art, culture, and wildlife. There's something for every traveler type.
Q: Are there free things to do in Aruba? Yes! Beaches, parks, art murals, festivals, and nature walks — all at no cost.
Q: Is it easy to get around without a car? If you stay near Oranjestad or Palm Beach, yes. Otherwise, rent a car or book local tours.
Q: What should I buy from Aruba? Aloe products, Aruban hot sauce, local art, and Dutch-Caribbean snacks.
Q: Can I do a lot in just one day? Absolutely. With good planning, you can mix beach, food, and local culture in one memorable day.
