Fun fact: it was a major goal of mine to visit 30 countries by the time I turned 30. COVID threw off plans of me completing that early, but I ended up going to Aruba for my 30th birthday!
Aruba is the perfect island getaway with its gorgeous beaches, crystal-clear waters, and tons of outdoor activities. From jetskiing to exploring ancient ruins, here’s a recap of my unforgettable time in this tropical paradise.
Where we stayed
We stayed at the Holiday Inn Resorts Aruba-Beach Resort & Casino, a great place with beachfront views, pools, and easy access to all the island activities. The casino also provided some fun evening entertainment. However, if I were to go back, I would choose a different hotel with a more fresh breakfast and better room quality. Positive side (aside from the pools and beach), my massage at the spa was wonderful!
What We Did in Aruba
Gorgeous Beaches – Aruba’s beaches are absolutely stunning. The white sand and turquoise water make you feel like you’re in a dream. The beach near our hotel was perfect for relaxing or taking a dip in the warm water.
Jetskiing – This was a blast! The calm waters made for an easy and thrilling ride across the coastline, giving us a new perspective of the island.
UTV Riding Tour Around the Island – One of the coolest experiences was the UTV riding tour around Aruba with De Palm Tours. We got to visit a few iconic sites:
Baby Natural Bridge – A beautiful rock formation that used to be a bigger natural bridge until it collapsed.
Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins – An old gold mill that tells the story of Aruba’s mining history.
California Lighthouse – An iconic landmark with a breathtaking view of the island’s rugged coastline.
Conchi Natural Pool – To top off the adventure, we took a (very) rocky bus ride to reach the Conchi Natural Pool—a hidden gem in a cove surrounded by lava rocks. The water was calm and perfect for a swim, even if the ride there was a bit bumpy! Take note: there is a long stairway walk down to the pool from where the parking lot is.
Island Size
Aruba is super small, which made it easy to explore. Everything is just a short drive away, with most destinations being within a 30-minute to an hour drive of each other. It’s only 6 miles at its widest part, making it the perfect destination for both relaxation and adventure.
Aruba is a tiny island with big experiences. Whether you’re into jetskiing, exploring historical ruins, or just relaxing on the beach, it’s the perfect tropical destination with the friendliest people. The UTV tour was definitely a highlight, and I’d definitely recommend checking out the Conchi Natural Pool. This island is small but packed with adventures, and I can’t wait to return!
Samantha Shammas, Author
A true travel enthusiast, Samantha has been going around the globe her entire life and has visited over 35 countries and counting. With a lust to wander, she’s always excited to visit new places and soak in inspiration for her artwork.
