What Aruba lacks in size, it makes up for in its extreme diversity of things to see and do. For such a small island, there is really a lot to discover out here. Depending on the kind of vacation you wish to enjoy, you can either relax on the beach, or if you are the adventurous type, exploring this island’s vast and alien terrain is a great way to spend the day. You can see most of Aruba in just 2 days with the aid of a rental car and map. Some popular places to see include; the northern coast of Aruba, Arikok National Park to the east and San Nicolas to the south.

With a distinctly Dutch flavor, the capital of Aruba, Oranjestad has a nice laidback feel to it. Primarily known for its pastel colored buildings, this resort town has some great shopping, fine restaurants and a number of good hotels. Visit the Archeological Museum to catch a glimpse into Aruba’s rich past, while the Cas di Cultura elegantly showcases the island’s culture at present. The Numismatic Museum is a wonderful place especially for those who enjoy coin collecting. If you like visiting churches and other religious buildings then do see the Beth Israel Synagogue, the Protestant Church and the Saint Francisco Church in town.

Another popular place to see in Oranjestad is Fort Zoutman, Willem III Tower, and the Museo Arubano. Located within the fort, the tower and the museum offer a wonderful way to spend a quiet couple of hours taking in relics from this island’s Dutch colonial period.

From Oranjestad head north into what is often referred to as Aruba’s outback. The terrain here is harsh with only cacti and divi-divi trees to be seen. Tour the Butterfly Farm here and be sure to check out the Old Dutch Windmill, Aruba’s most important landmark. Built in 1804, this windmill now features a restaurant on its premises. Nearby is the beautiful neo-gothic Santa Anna Church that is also definitely worth a visit. A 5 minute drive from the church and you will come to the California Lighthouse that sits atop a hill and marks Aruba’s northernmost tip. This lighthouse site was a key beacon during its heyday.

Offering some respite from the harsh scenery here is the lush and beautiful Bubali Bird Sanctuary. With more than 80 species of birds, this sanctuary is a terrific place to check out. If you have the time, do visit the charming Alto Vista Chapel, the first church in Aruba. Built in 1750, this church was abandoned in the 1800’s only to be rebuilt and is still used even today. Also in the area are the Ayo and Casibari Rock Formations, which offer an intriguing sight.

Do visit the Arikok National Park on Aruba’s eastern coast, which houses the island’s many indigenous animals and plants as well as ancient Arawak drawings. This nature preserve is also home to an abandoned complex of gold mines and trenches, as well as the fascinating Quadirikiri Caves, a treat for the adventurous to explore.

From here, travel on to San Nicolas in the south, a former phosphate export port. Nearby here is a grotto dedicated to Our Lady of Lourdes, with Mt. Hooiberg a short drive away. A favorite landmark of the island, you can see Venezuela from atop this mountain on a clear day.