Aruba Points of Interest
Coastal landmarks
The whitewashed California Lighthouse crowns the breezy northwest tip of Aruba and is the classic spot for panoramic island and ocean views, especially at sunset. Down the leeward coast lie the island most-photographed beaches, including Eagle Beach with its iconic divi-divi or fofoti trees leaning in the trade winds. Offshore, the Antilla shipwreck, one of the largest wrecks in the Caribbean, draws snorkelers and divers to its shallow, fish-filled hull. Many boat tours combine these coastal highlights in a single sail, so you can photograph the lighthouse from the water and snorkel the wreck on the same trip.
Arikok National Park sights
Arikok National Park protects almost a fifth of Aruba and packs in the island wildest scenery. The star is the Natural Pool, or Conchi, a sheltered tidal pool ringed by volcanic rock where you can swim while waves crash outside, reachable only by 4x4, horseback or a guided hike. The park also holds the Quadirikiri and Fontein caves with their light shafts, bats and ancient Arawak drawings, plus cactus-studded hills, sand dunes and the Bushiribana gold mill ruins on the coast. Because the terrain is rough and the trails are unmarked in places, a guided Jeep or UTV safari is the easiest and safest way to see it.
Culture in Oranjestad
The capital, Oranjestad, is a sight in itself, with candy-colored Dutch colonial buildings, the free streetcar running down Main Street, and duty-free shopping plazas. Stroll the renovated waterfront, ride the open-top tram, and browse the historic center on a walking tour to learn the island Arawak, Spanish and Dutch story. Fort Zoutman and the Willem III Tower house the small Historical Museum, and craft markets sell local art and aloe products, a nod to Aruba aloe-growing heritage. A half-day in town pairs nicely with a beach afternoon and is easy to reach by bus or on foot from the cruise terminal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most famous landmark in Aruba?
The California Lighthouse and the fofoti trees at Eagle Beach are the most iconic, along with the Natural Pool in Arikok and the Antilla shipwreck for snorkelers.
How do you get to the Natural Pool?
The Natural Pool in Arikok is reachable only by 4x4, horseback or a guided hike over rough terrain. A guided Jeep or UTV safari is the easiest and safest option.
Is Oranjestad worth visiting?
Yes. The colorful Dutch-colonial capital has a free tram, duty-free shopping, a walkable historic center and small museums, easy to combine with a beach afternoon.