A Guide to Aruba’s Must-See Sites
California Lighthouse, Aruba
Aruba is a small island located in the southern Caribbean and is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and warm tropical climate. This makes it a popular tourist destination and a great place to visit if you're looking for a relaxing beach holiday. In this article, we'll take a look at the top 5 sites to visit in Aruba.
Eagle Beach
Eagle Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Aruba and is often referred to as the island's best beach. It is located on the northwest coast of the island and is known for its beautiful white sand, clear turquoise waters, and lush palm trees. The beach is also famous for its abundance of seashells, which makes it a popular spot for beachcombing.
Eagle Beach is also home to some of the best restaurants in Aruba, so if you're looking for a place to enjoy some fresh seafood or a delicious cocktail, this is the place to be. The beach is also a great place to try water sports like snorkeling, windsurfing, and kite surfing.
Arikok National Park
Arikok National Park is located in the eastern part of Aruba and covers approximately 20% of the island. The park is known for its stunning landscapes, including rugged hills, desert-like cacti forests, and beautiful beaches.
One of the highlights of Arikok National Park is the Natural Pool, which is a unique natural pool formed by rocks and coral that create a protected area for swimming. The park is also home to several hiking trails, including the famous Quadirikiri Cave Trail, which leads visitors through a network of caves and sinkholes.
Another popular spot in Arikok National Park is the Alto Vista Chapel, which is a small church that was built in 1750 by the island's first settlers. The chapel is located on a hill overlooking the sea and is a popular spot for picnics and sunset views.
Oranjestad
Oranjestad is the capital of Aruba and is located on the western coast of the island. The city is a mix of Dutch colonial architecture and modern buildings, making it a unique and interesting place to visit.
Oranjestad is a great place to shop for souvenirs, as there are many shops and markets selling handmade crafts, jewelry, and clothing. The city is also home to several museums, including the Aruba Aloe Museum, which is dedicated to the history and production of aloe vera products.
In addition to shopping and museums, Oranjestad is also a great place to enjoy some delicious local cuisine. The city is home to several restaurants and cafes serving traditional Aruban dishes, as well as international cuisine.
California Lighthouse
The California Lighthouse is a landmark located on the northwest tip of Aruba and is named after the steamship California, which ran aground near the lighthouse in 1891. The lighthouse offers panoramic views of the island and the surrounding sea, and is a popular spot for sunset viewing.
The lighthouse is also a great place to explore the island's history and culture, as there is a small museum located at the base of the lighthouse that provides information about Aruba's history and the lighthouse itself.
De Palm Island
De Palm Island is a private island located just off the coast of Aruba and is known for its stunning beaches, water sports, and fun activities. The island is accessible by ferry from the mainland, and visitors can spend the day lounging on the beach, snorkeling, or enjoying some of the island's many water activities, such as paddle boarding and kayaking.
De Palm Island is also home to a large pool, several restaurants, and a bar, so you can spend the day relaxing and enjoying the island's facilities. The island also has several areas dedicated to children, including a shallow pool and a play area, making it a great place to bring the whole family.
One of the highlights of De Palm Island is the snorkeling tour, which takes visitors to a nearby reef to see the island's diverse marine life, including colorful fish and vibrant coral. The tour is guided by experienced instructors, who will provide you with all the equipment you need, including snorkels, masks, and flippers.
In conclusion, these are the top 5 sites to visit in Aruba. Whether you're looking for beautiful beaches, stunning landscapes, or fun activities, Aruba has something for everyone. So, if you're planning a visit to this beautiful island, be sure to check out these top 5 sites and experience the best of what Aruba has to offer.
If you are interested in visiting Aruba and want to fully immerse yourself in the island's rich cultural heritage, consider staying at a traditional cunucu house. These unique and authentic houses offer a unique and authentic experience, allowing you to step back in time and experience the island's rich cultural traditions. With their thatched roofs, wooden beams, and charming decor, cunucu houses provide the perfect setting for a memorable and authentic Caribbean vacation.