Sunset off Roatán, Honduras (Textor)
As on many Caribbean islands, a major tourist focus here is on the beaches and the facilities on offer in the island's busiest distrcts. Most visitors are happy just lounging on Aruba's inarguably stunning beaches. If you’re looking for more adventure, there is plenty to be had.
Aruba sees a fair amount of diving-based tourism. In addition to reefs with a wide variety of colorful marine life, there are several shipwrecks in the waters surrounding the island, including the mysterious Antilla, one of the best shipwrecks in the Caribbean for diving. Check out Mermaid Dive Center and Aruba Pro Dive for information about dive deals.
Snorkelers aren't neglected, either. Many hotels rent out snorkling equipment. some even provide snorkels and masks free of charge. There are also various water activities that don't actually require getting wet. From deep sea fishing to booze cruises (the latter quite popular) there are water adventures of all sorts. Sort through the non-sporting aquatic options here.
Landlubbers shouldn't fret. There’s plenty to do if you want to escape the beach for a bit. Try venturing out to the Aruba Aloe Plant for a lesson in the history and making of some of Aruba's finest aloe products. Or head to colorful downtown Oranjestad, where narrow streets, historic buildings, modern shopping malls, and a sprinkling of art galleries to visit.
Active hikers are also in luck. Sensitive Hikers, a fabulous outfit run by a friendly local named Eddy Croes, runs great hiking tours of varying intensity around Aruba. Four-hour tours run $65 per person, and typically cover the island's geology and provide information about conservation efforts on Aruba. Croes offers tours in English, Dutch, Spanish, and French.