Wadi Rum (60km north) is the most compelling day trip from Aqaba. The desert landscape — rose-red sandstone mountains rising from a pink sandy plain — is extraordinary. Lawrence of Arabia passed through here. Jeep tours, camel rides, and overnight camps are all available; the Bedouin communities offer hospitality. A full day is the minimum to do it justice.
Petra (130km north, around 1.5 hours by road) can be done as a long day trip from Aqaba, though an overnight is better. The Nabataean city carved from rose-coloured sandstone is one of the world's great archaeological sites. The Siq entrance, the Treasury facade, the Royal Tombs, and the Monastery (reached by a long stairway) are the highlights.
Pharaoh's Island (Jezîrat Fir'awn), about 12km south in Egyptian waters, can be reached by boat from Aqaba. The island has a Crusader-era castle and good snorkelling. Tour operators in Aqaba organise day trips; the trip requires crossing into Egyptian waters, so bring your passport.
