Check out the 6 amazing free attractions in Aruba and learn about the main places you can’t miss on your travel itinerary.
What to do in Aruba?
The main attractions in Aruba are the island’s beaches, which have unique characteristics such as clear sand and blue waters. Some of them are privately owned or even belong to hotels and resorts, so you have to stay there or use day use.
But there are others, which are public, that are just as good. Below we’ve listed the best public beaches and some tours you can do for free on the “Happy Island”.
1) Beaches on the island
Of course, the island’s beautiful beaches couldn’t be missing from the list of things to do in Aruba. The first of these is Beach Palm, which is known for its spectacular beauty, its popularity and the concentration of hotels on its shores. You can also visit Druif Beach, Eagle Beach and Manchebo Beach, which are excellent options and offer a wide range of attractions (such as casinos).
2) Ruins of the Balashi Gold Mill
The island still bears traces of the search for gold in the Caribbean, which is why there are some sites, such as those of the Balashi mill. Tourists go there to take pictures and learn a little more about the local history.
The ruins of the smelter date back to 1825 and recount the mining interests that existed on the island and only stopped during the First World War. If you’re looking for a trip that’s different from the usual Caribbean tours, this island could be very interesting.
- Important tip: Aruba is a country with many beautiful regions and tourist attractions, such as day trips and tours. That’s why our tip is to always buy your tickets in advance. We buy everything on this website that has the best price.
3) Natural and Baby Bridge
There are also natural bridges on Aruba that always attract lots of clicks from tourists and visitors. Among the most famous is the Natural Bridge, located in the Arikok National Park.
Although the bridge collapsed due to natural phenomena in 2005, its ruins still exist and it continues to be visited. Another natural bridge, which is also nearby, is the Baby Bridge. It is scenically beautiful and well worth a visit.
4) Aruba Aloe Museum and Factory
Like the tours above, visiting the Aruba Aloe Museum and Factory is one of the things to do for free on the island. The museum is located in the Hato area of Oranjestad and is open from 8am to 5pm. The museum recounts the arrival of Aloe Vera (a type of plant) in Aruba and how it became essential to the local economy, becoming one of the main exports in a short space of time.
The space also shows the beneficial properties of this plant, as well as the tools used to manage and extract it.
It’s also worth noting that the tour is entirely guided and you can follow along in Spanish, Dutch, English and Papiamentu, the latter being Aruba’s native language. There is also an audiovisual presentation and, at the end of the visit, you can access the plantation and the shop.
5) National Archaeological Museum of Aruba
On this tour, you’ll get to know a little more about the local culture and history because the collections date from 2500 BC to the 19th century. In addition, the space is very attractive and highlights the island’s Dutch influence.
There are many ceramic artifacts, shell tools, stones and ornaments. It’s worth noting that the site is open from Tuesday to Friday from 10am to 5pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 2pm.
- Important tip: to make the most of your trip to Aruba, staying in the best regions is essential. So, if you want, check out our article explaining the main areas and how you can save a lot on accommodation.
6) Alto Vista Chapel
In the Noord area is the Alto Vista Chapel, which was consecrated in 1750 and rebuilt in 1952. It is Aruba’s first church and always receives visitors, making it one of the island’s tourist attractions. This space offers a beautiful panoramic view of this part of the island, with a beautiful contrast between the native vegetation and the Caribbean Sea.
Save money on your trip to Aruba:
Tickets: find out where to buy your tickets to Aruba the cheapest and safest way. You can save up to 40%!
Car: if you are thinking about renting one this is the best website. It compares the price at all rental companies and finds unbeatable prices. You can save up to 30%!
Hotels: our article on where to stay in Aruba. You will find out the best regions, as well as tips on how to find the best hotels.
Mobile chip: we always use this chip. It’s electronic (eSIM), you install it instantly and you can use your cell phone’s Internet anywhere in the world.
Travel insurance: medical care in another country is very expensive and it is extremely important to take out travel insurance for any trip abroad. This is the website we always take out our insurance on. Reliable and at a good price.
Transfer: do you need one from the airport to the hotel? Find out here how to book and for the lowest price!
