What to see in Aruba: 10 must-sees

Walk along the 2 kilometers of white sand at Eagle Beach, the widest beach in the Caribbean, and photograph the divi-divi trees bent by the trade winds. Swim in crystal-clear turquoise waters, snorkel near the shore, or simply stroll barefoot across the fine sand. At the end of the day, stay to watch the sunset over the sea from this beach near Oranjestad, spacious even in high season.

Watch pink flamingos walk alongside you on the white sand of Renaissance Island, the private island just off the coast of Oranjestad. You arrive after a short boat ride from the Renaissance Resort, and here you can photograph these birds, swim in clear waters, or relax in a hammock over the sea. Access is exclusive to resort guests, so plan your visit in advance. Snorkel near the shore, walk along the beach, and end the afternoon by the calm water, with flamingos crossing the scene.

Dive into the clear waters of Arashi, in the north of Aruba, where the reef close to shore lets you watch fish without leaving the sand. Walk over to the California Lighthouse, which has kept watch over the tip of the island since 1916, and see how the palm trees divide the beach into stretches of shade. The current here is gentle compared with neighboring Boca Catalina, so swimming is comfortable almost all year round. Arrive early: on weekends it fills up with residents of Noord who come with coolers and music.

Admire the California Lighthouse, built in the 19th century on Aruba's southern coast near San Nicolas. Climb its stone tower and watch the Caribbean Sea crash against the surrounding cliffs. Explore the trails nearby among cacti and dry scrub, and discover the maritime history of this beacon that guided ships for decades. Take advantage of the proximity to see the street-art murals that have turned San Nicolas into an open-air museum, and end the day at the beaches on the island's southern tip.

Visit Arikok National Park in Santa Cruz and explore its 3,364 hectares of columnar cacti, iguanas, and lava and coral rock formations that dominate the island's arid interior. Follow the marked trails to viewpoints with direct ocean views, spot local birds like the prikichi, and pass caves with rock paintings. Bring water and closed-toe shoes: the sun beats down and the terrain is uneven, but every trail reveals a different side of Aruba far from the hotel coast.

Wander through Oranjestad past pastel-colored houses lining the harbor, the point where cruise ships and goods arrive in the capital. Stop at Fort Zoutman, the island's oldest colonial building, then browse the market, where fresh fish, tropical fruit, and local crafts set the pace of each morning. Take in the everyday life of this Caribbean capital, a blend of Dutch tradition and modernity, in a cultural mosaic revealed street by street.

Tour the museum dedicated to Aruba's history, where indigenous artifacts, ceramics, and 4,000-year-old tools tell the island's story. Admire the collection of Caquetío artifacts and learn about Aruba's first inhabitants. Wander through the museum, where artifacts, exhibits, and history create a journey through time. Discover unique collections, learn about local culture, and broaden your knowledge.