Aruba has more going on than its beach-resort reputation suggests. The island's history runs from Arawak cave paintings to a 19th-century gold rush, and its interior is a dry, rocky landscape that rewards exploration.
Arikok National Park
Covering about 18% of the island, Arikok is the main reason to rent a car or ATV and head away from the coast. The terrain shifts between volcanic rock, quartz and limestone formations. Trails lead to Fontein Cave, whose walls carry pre-Columbian Arawak paintings, and Quadirikiri Cave, which has an impressive bat colony and natural skylights that let sunlight stream in. The park is also home to endemic wildlife including the Aruban whiptail lizard, the burrowing owl, and the prikichi (Aruban parakeet). Near the windward coast, you'll find the Conchi — a natural seawater pool tucked behind volcanic rocks, accessible by 4x4 or on horseback.
Fort Zoutman and Willem III Tower
Oranjestad's oldest building, Fort Zoutman was built in 1798 to protect the harbor from pirates. The adjacent Willem III Tower was added later as a lighthouse and clock tower. Together they house the Historical Museum of Aruba. On Tuesday evenings, the Bon Bini Festival is held in the courtyard: local music, dance and craft stalls — an unpretentious introduction to Aruban culture.
California Lighthouse
At the island's northwest tip, this lighthouse sits on a low bluff with sweeping views of the sand dunes and the open Atlantic. Named after the SS California, a steamship that wrecked nearby in 1891, it is one of the more photographed spots on the island. The surrounding dunes are worth a short walk.
Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins
On the north coast, these stone ruins are what remain from Aruba's 19th-century gold rush. Gold was first discovered here in 1824, and over three million pounds were eventually extracted from the island. The roofless walls and arched windows make for a striking ruin against the rocky coastline.
Casibari and Ayo Rock Formations
Two clusters of enormous diorite boulders that rise improbably from the flat interior. You can scramble up the rocks at Casibari via carved steps, and the views of the surrounding landscape are wide and clear. Ayo has a more open feel and Arawak rock drawings are carved into some of the boulders.
Alto Vista Chapel
A small yellow chapel sitting alone on a hillside on the north coast, reached by a winding road lined with roadside crosses. The current chapel dates from 1952, built on the site of the island's first Catholic church from 1750. It's a quiet spot, popular with pilgrims and anyone wanting a few minutes away from the beach crowds.
Oranjestad
The capital is worth a few hours on foot. Dutch colonial architecture in pastel colors lines the main streets, and the harbor front has a lively market where Venezuelan boats bring in fresh fish, produce and spices. The Archaeological Museum and the Numismatic Museum are both small but worthwhile.