4 THINGS TO ADD TO YOUR ARUBA BUCKET LIST
1. Visit Renaissance Private Island
On my 26th trip to Aruba, I discovered the magic of Renaissance Private Island. With free-roaming flamingos and private cabanas for rent, this is not an experience to miss. The island offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. You can kayak through the family friendly Iguana Beach or kick back at the adults only Flamingo beach while enjoying delicious shrimp tacos. For Renaissance Aruba guests, access to this island is included in your stay. The island is located about 5 minutes away from the Renaissance by boat. Luckily, the boats leave every 15 minutes. If you are staying elsewhere, you can book a day pass for $125 on the Renaissance website. Day passes are limited and go on sale at 9:00am each Saturday for the upcoming Monday through Sunday. For massage lovers, you can book a tropical open-air massage package at the Island Spa Cove for as low as about $175 by contacting spa@arubarenaissance.com in place of the day pass option.
2. Do Water Activities
On Palm Beach, you can choose from an array of water sport activities such as jet skiing, parasailing, and water tubing. There are many huts where you can bargain for the best rate. However, my favorite hut is the Island and Water sports Hut located in front of Pelican Pier. The Octopus hut also offers catamaran cruises with snorkel gear, bottomless cocktails, sandwiches, and fresh fruit. This is the perfect option for big groups.
3. Go Off-roading
Whether you’re the type of person who prefers to go on a tour or explore on your own, Aruba is the place to be. Around Aruba Tours is one of the most well known tour companies on the island. It offers both ATV and UTV tour options that include sites such as the Philip’s Animal Garden, Andicuri Beach, and Natural Baby Bridge. If you’re venturing out on your own, you can rent a Jeep and check out the sites at your own pace. My personal favorites are Bushiribana Ruins, the New Natural Pool located near the ruins, and the Conchi Natural Pool located in Arikok Park. Either way be prepared for a bumpy ride.
4. See the California Lighthouse at Sunrise
If you are a sunrise lover, the California Lighthouse is one of the best place to watch the sunrise from the island of Aruba. This lighthouse is located on the northern tip of the island a serves as one of Aruba’s most revisited attractions. If you would prefer to visit California lighthouse for the 360-degree island view, it is open daily from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm.
