Why would anyone need a list of things to do in Aruba if it's the island you go to exactly with genuine hopes to do as little as possible? And even if there's anyone among the hordes of American east-coaster who regularly come here to shake off the shackles of winter that does follow an itinerary, it is rather short and simple to remember: have fun, have sex, and have enough money on the last day to be able to come back home. But the reputation as one big watering hole and party hub is only part of Aruba's complete image. The further you get from glitzy resorts and well-combed beaches, the more rugged and solitary you will find it, with its landscape of desolate gold mines, bird sanctuaries and hilarious divi divi trees. In other words, lots of sun-caressed moments mixed with a little bit of awe - quite pricey, but what balsamic a drink! Here's a list of things to do in Aruba, excluding the obvious (you'll get to the Charlie's Bar anyway):
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Aruba's true pride and joy, as well as a fruit of the governments endeavors to preserve the islands endemic species of fauna and flora, Arikok National Wildlife Park encompasses over 20% of Aruba's land and is home to a staggering array of exotica not to be encountered anywhere else in the world...
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Not only a lepidopterologist's dream, the Butterfly Farm is a flamboyant jewel in Aruba's unique collection of wildlife and one certainly not to be missed while on the island. Enter a world where color is the greatest virtue and flutter action speaks louder than words. See how a greenish caterpil...
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Towering on the northwest tip of the island and hugged by the so-called California White Sand Dunes, the California Lighthouse stands as a remainder of its namesake, a steamship which went down in rough seas nearby and one of Aruba's most popular dive sites today. Those who prefer to stay on land...
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Encircled by a ring of volcanic formations and hidden in Aruba's most rocky terrain, the Natural Pool gives you a true sense of discovery rewarded with intense relaxation afterwards. It's pretty hard to get to, but once you're there, you don't want to find the way back home.
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A stretch of ivory sand lapped by lustrous, emerald-tinted waves is by far the only attraction that comes courtesy of Arashi beach, but snorkelers and sun-worshipers are ready to walk a good 15 minutes from the nearest resort to end up spending a day in this "facility-less" piece of paradise.
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Built in 1750 and then reconstructed in the mid 20th century, the brightly yellow chapel was the first Roman Catholic Church on the island and today serves as a peaceful oasis for the locals to indulge in some special moments of spiritual tranquility. Indeed, the chapel's minuscule size juxtapose...
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Built in 1798 to protect the budding commercial hub, before Oranjestad became the official capital, Fort Zoutman is Aruba's oldest building and a cute colorful example of Dutch colonial architecture. Today the fort houses the Aruba Historical Museum, which remains in close touch with the educati...
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Around three million pounds of gold were produced in this now ruined smelter built in 1825 and operating for most of the 19th century. There are no guides on the site so you're left to to freely amble among the crumbling walls looking as if they were ruins of a medieval fortress. Also, the now fa...
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Whether you've already had some dancing experience or the only salsa you know is the sauce on your nachos, Reggie & Sabine will inject the love for Latin American rhythms into your blood. Fantastic technique, great organizational abilities and fabulous people skills make them the kind of people y...
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If you're coming for nights full of carnal attractions and days drifting by in the air of sweet relaxation, you won't probably put the Numismatic Museum on your list of things to do in Aruba. But if you see vacationing as equal parts fun and culture, you'll find it interesting to learn how a sing...
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The Antilla
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Hooiberg
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Pedernalis
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Natural Pool
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Jane Sea
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Stumble
