15 Unique and Non-Touristy Things to Do in Aruba

Aruba is a beautiful island known for its gorgeous turquoise water and white-sand beaches. While it has some of the best beaches in the Caribbean, there is more to Aruba than meets the eye.

One Happy Island offers a variety of fun and unique things to see and do, both at and away from the beach.

This doesn’t mean that the well-known areas like Eagle Beach and Palm Beach are not worth visiting, it just means there is more to Aruba than you may be aware of. 

If you are ready to escape the crowds and visit a less touristy Aruba, like I did, let’s get right into the most unique and non-touristy things to do in Aruba. 

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15 Unique and Non-Touristy Things to Do in Aruba

If you are looking for activities in Aruba that are lesser-known or not crowded but filled with beauty, this list of non-touristy things to do in Aruba is for you. 

I spent my week in Aruba almost entirely crowd-free, so I’m here to help you do the same.

1. San Nicolas Street Art Murals

One of the most unique things to do in Aruba is to visit the San Nicolas Street Art Murals.

The San Nicolas area is small but full to the brim of beautiful murals and street art. With new murals every year, over 40 murals are to be found in this area, all of them being eye-catching and unique.

Visiting the street art murals of San Nicolas is the perfect way to experience Aruba’s vibrant arts scene and enjoy the island’s beautiful southern coast. 

2. Donkey Sanctuary Aruba

One of the most adorable and fun things to do in Aruba is to visit the island’s Donkey Sanctuary.

Historically, donkeys have played a surprisingly large role in Aruba’s development.

Until cars were brought to the island, donkeys were the main mode of transportation!

There are over 100 donkeys that call the sanctuary home, and you’ll be able to get up close and personal with these friendly creatures. Who doesn’t want to cuddle or hug a donkey?

3. Arikok National Park

Did you know almost 20% of the land in Aruba lies within Arikok National Park?

This massive park is full of things to see and do, from rugged desert landscapes to seaside cliffs and caves with indigenous paintings. I had never seen so many cacti before!

The great thing about Arikok is it’s small enough that you can explore the majority of it in a day, but it’s large enough that visitors can spread out and it never feels too crowded.

If you are worried about missing the best sites, join one of the best park tours.

4. Ayo Rock Formation

One of the best non-touristy things to do in Aruba is to visit some of the island’s unique rock formations. Ayo Rock Formation is a beautiful example of Aruba’s natural rugged beauty.

The towering formation is imposing but easily accessible, and you can walk in between the massive boulders through a series of pathways.

You can find rock paintings at Ayo which speak to the island’s rich history.

If you climb to the top of the Ayo rock formation, you will see stunning views of the surrounding area.

Interacting with and being so close to the Ayo rock formation was one of my favourite things to do in Aruba. 

5. Casibari Rock Formation

Another great rock formation worth checking out is Casibari. The Casibari Rock Formation is located in a residential area but, like Ayo, can be climbed and explored.

A series of trails and steps lead visitors to the top of the formation where you can experience breathtaking 360-degree views over Aruba, including the nearby Hooiberg.

You can easily visit both of these rock formations in one trip as they are only a few minutes apart, and each is uniquely beautiful.  

6. Hooiberg Lookout

Hiking Hooiberg Lookout is undoubtedly one of the top non-touristy things to do in Aruba.

Hooiberg Lookout is a volcanic formation that is located right in the heart of the island, the only high peak on the island.

The climb to the summit is steep with lots of steps, but the views from the top are worth it. On a clear day, you can even see Venezuela from the mountaintop. 

7. Natural Bridge

One of the most unique things to see in Aruba is Natural Bridge. Several naturally-formed rock bridges can be found throughout Aruba, but by far the most striking is Natural Bridge and the nearby Baby Bridge.

Unfortunately, Natural Bridge collapsed in 2005, but the remains are still worth seeing in person.

Thankfully, Baby Bridge, located just across from Natural Bridge, is still standing and a great spot to visit. You will be amazed to see how years of erosion from the salty ocean waters naturally formed these bridges. 

8. Bushiribana Ruins

For a historic side of Aruba, the Bushiribana Ruins are a must-visit. Located on the northern coast of Aruba, the ruins are from a historic gold mill likely built in the late 1800s or early 1900s.

Many may not know that Aruba was home to a mini gold rush after the mineral was found on the island in 1846.

These ruins provide an excellent opportunity to reflect on Aruba’s history and consider how the island has changed over the decades.

9. Baby Beach

To experience one of the most beautiful and calm beaches on the entire island of Aruba, you must visit Baby Beach.

Located on the southern coast of the island, Baby Beach consists of a crescent-shaped beach and a shallow lagoon with gentle waters.

Away from popular Eagle and Palm beaches, Baby Beach is away from the crowds.

Relax on the powdery white sand or go snorkelling in its crystal clear waters, and enjoy an afternoon at Baby Beach.

10. California Lighthouse

When visiting the north side of Aruba, stop by the California Lighthouse.

California Lighthouse was first lit in 1916, and even though it’s no longer in operation, visitors are welcome to climb to the top and take in sweeping views of the ocean and coastline. 

11. Arashi Dunes

One of Aruba’s best-kept secrets is the sand dunes that can be found on the island’s northern coast.

The Arashi Dunes are a great place to escape the crowds and do a little bit of exploring on foot. Walking through these dunes makes you feel like you’ve stepped onto another planet.

They are conveniently located near California Lighthouse, so you can easily visit both in one afternoon.

12. Boca Catalina Beach

It’s no surprise that Aruba is full of beautiful beaches, and Boca Catalina ranks as one of the best.

Boca Catalina is considered one of the top unique things to do in Aruba because of how small and secluded it is.

If you want to avoid the more touristy beach options, I recommend visiting Boca Catalina.

Boca Catalina is known for being a top beach choice among locals, so you’re guaranteed to have a great experience. During my visit, I went snorkelling at Boca Catalina Beach.

13. Aruba Aloe Factory & Farm

You might be surprised to learn that Aruba is home to one of the world’s only aloe companies to grow and manufacture the plant from start to finish.

The Aruba Aloe Factory & Farm is home to a factory and museum that visitors are welcome to tour.

During your visit, you will learn all about how the over 100-year-old company grows and processes its aloe. A visit to the aloe farm is sure to impress, and you’ll be glad you took the time to visit. 

14. Surfside Beach

Another non-touristy beach option in Aruba is Surfside Beach.

Surfside Beach is known for being a relatively quiet location to experience the island’s signature white sand beaches and clear waters. It reminded me of my trip to Barbados, which also has great beaches.

There are a few bars and restaurants just off Surfside Beach that make it a great place to relax and unwind for a few hours.

Unsurprisingly, sunset is a wonderful time to visit this hidden gem.

15. The Butterfly Farm

Rounding out the most unique and non touristy things to do in Aruba is the Butterfly Farm.

The Butterfly Farm consists of a tropical garden that is full of a variety of butterflies.

You will be able to learn about the life cycle of the butterfly as they transform from caterpillars, and the farm itself is a great photo spot because of how beautiful it is. 

What is Unique in Aruba?

Aruba is the perfect tropical destination because of how much variety it offers on a relatively small island.

You can experience everything from snorkelling to hiking to the top of a volcano and exploring historic ruins.

There’s adventure everywhere in Aruba, and straying away from the touristy side of the island will reward you with some incredibly unique experiences. And if you want even more adventure, consider visiting Antigua instead.

Non-Touristy Places to Eat in Aruba

After all this exploring, you’re sure to have worked up an appetite! Aruba is home to some amazing restaurants, and these are my recommendations on non-touristy places to eat.

Zeerovers

Zeerovers is a local favourite that serves up delicious fresh seafood. This oceanfront restaurant is unassuming in appearance, but you don’t want to miss eating here.

Since the restaurant is located a bit of a drive from Aruba’s main touristy areas, you won’t have to worry about large crowds. Make sure you bring cash with you as they are cash-only.

Pika’s Corner Aruban Cuisine

Pika’s Corner Aruban Cuisine is a small corner cafe that is an excellent destination for traditional Aruban food. A hit among locals, Pika’s is a great place to try some authentic Aruban dishes and flavours in a small, casual setting.

The Pastechi House

A pastechi is a fried half-moon pastry filled with various sweet or savoury ingredients, and The Pastechi House is one of the best spots in Aruba to taste this local favourite.

Pastechis are a traditional Aruban snack, so visiting The Pastechi House is a great way to sample this beloved snack. 

Final Thoughts on Off the Beaten Path Things to Do in Aruba

When you want to experience another side of Aruba, there are plenty of off the beaten things to do in Aruba.

From hiking in the desert in Arikok to spending time with rescued donkeys or walking through sand dunes, you’ll have a fun time in Aruba away from crowds!

Aruba has so much to offer and is a great vacation spot. And now that you know the best non-touristy activities, don’t forget to add them to your Aruba itinerary.

Happy travelling!