Planning your trip to Aruba? In this final part of our A-to-Z guide on things to do in Aruba, we cover the best experiences from R to Z—including relaxing island escapes, underwater adventures, animal encounters, and wellness activities.
R – Renaissance Island
Want to meet Aruba’s famous flamingos? Head to Renaissance Island, the island’s only private beach, exclusively accessible to guests of the Renaissance Resort & Casino. Non-guests can sometimes purchase a day pass depending on availability. Just an 8-minute boat ride away, the island offers quiet beaches, spa treatments, tropical drinks at Mangrove Beach Bar, and lunch at Papagayo Bar & Grill.
S – Snorkeling
Snorkeling in Aruba is a must. Join a guided trip with Pelican Adventures or choose a sail-and-snorkel cruise that visits shipwrecks like the WWII Antilla, now a vibrant coral reef. You can also snorkel on your own at hotspots like Mangel Halto and Arashi Beach—just be mindful of currents and avoid touching marine life.
Want to step it up? Try diving for a closer look at Aruba’s sea creatures—including sea turtles!
T – Turtles
Sea turtles are a special part of Aruba’s marine life. You might see Loggerhead, Green, Leatherback, or Hawksbill turtles while snorkeling or diving—or spot them nesting on beaches between March and September. During hatching season (May to November), keep a respectful distance. Look for red and white barriers that mark protected nests.
Local organization Turtugaruba works daily to protect these incredible animals.
U – Underwater Adventures (Seabob)
Try power snorkeling with Seabob Aruba! These electric underwater scooters allow you to glide through the sea with ease—perfect for exploring coral reefs and even the Antilla shipwreck.
V – Vacation Resorts
Aruba offers every type of accommodation, from boutique gems to luxury resorts. Choose between:
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Low-rise hotels in Eagle Beach (like Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort),
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High-rise hotels in Palm Beach (Marriott, Hyatt, Hilton, Boardwalk Boutique Hotel),
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Or opt for a cozy apartment, timeshare, or villa rental for a more intimate stay.
W – Wildlife
From iguanas and lizards (you’ll see them everywhere!) to donkeys, Aruba is rich in wildlife.
Visit the Donkey Sanctuary in Santa Cruz to meet these gentle creatures rescued from extinction. For more animal fun, head to The Butterfly Farm, Bubali Bird Sanctuary, or Philip’s Animal Garden—home to rescued exotic animals like snakes, monkeys, alpacas, emus, and more.
Y – Yoga
Stay grounded with yoga classes at top resorts like Marriott, Holiday Inn, or Renaissance Resort. For something unique, try SUP Yoga—practicing yoga on a paddleboard over Aruba’s calm waters.
Z – Zoo (Philip’s Animal Garden)
Round out your trip with a visit to Philip’s Animal Garden, Aruba’s own mini zoo. This non-profit rescue center lets visitors interact with a variety of animals. Entry includes treats you can feed to friendly creatures like goats, turtles, and donkeys. It’s perfect for families and animal lovers of all ages.
Photo credits : https://www.visitaruba.com/blog/traveling/part-3-things-to-do-in-aruba-r-to-z/
