What to do in Aruba
These geological formations add relief to the landscape and a glimpse into the island’s ancient past. Casibari boulders are clustered together weighing several tons and creating unique forms. There are walking trails through this rock garden, and a climb to the top of the highest boulder rewards with panoramic views. –Princess Cruise website
- Marissa of Postcards to Seattle
- Valerie of Valerie and Valise
Dutch influence still lingers on this balmy Caribbean island, part of the former Netherlands Antilles until its independence in 1986. Aruba is a contrast: the island’s arid interior is dotted with cactus and windswept divi-divi trees while secluded coves and sandy beaches make up its coast.
Aruba’s long and colorful heritage is reflected in its dialect. Called Papiamento, it is a tongue that combines elements of Spanish, French, Portuguese, Dutch, African and English.
In 2005, the Natural Bridge, a coral limestone formation chiseled by years of pounding waves and powerful winds, collapsed to the dismay of locals and tourists alike. But a smaller bridge, the intact Baby Natural Bridge, is a structurally sound arch carved out of rock and coral and a photogenic island highlight. –Princess Cruise website
A winding road dotted with crosses brings you to the top of a hill on Aruba’s north shore, where this brightly painted, yellow chapel stands proudly. In the early 18th century, Catholic Indians settled in the area. The original chapel was built by an Indian from Santa Ana de Coro, Venezuela, in 1750. The present chapel was completed in 1952 and is also known as Pilgrims Church.-Princess Cruise website
The California Lighthouse, named after the steamship California, which sank off the coast of Aruba, this iconic stone lighthouse, built in 1910, offers picture-postcard views of the expansive coastline.
More places we’ve cruised
Europe
Copenhagen, Denmark | Berlin, Germany | Tallinn, Estonia | St. Petersburg, Russia | Helsinki, Finland | Stockholm, Sweden
Caribbean, Central, and South America
Cozumel, Mexico | Belize City, Belize | Roatan, Honduras | Grand Cayman Island | Costa Maya, Mexico | Ochos Rios, Jamaica | Limon, Costa Rica | Panama City, Panama | Cartegena, Colombia | Aruba
Alaska and Canada
Vancouver, British Columbia | Whittier, Alaska | Skagway, Alaska | Juneau, Alaska | Hoonah, Alaska
Must-read cruising tips
Sharon Mc says
I really enjoyed all the wonderful photos of Aruba! Thank you for sharing them.
Brenda @ a farmgirl's dabbles says
We LOVE Aruba. So fun to see your experience!
Kiara says
This is really useful, thanks.
Terry says
We loved Aruba when we visited it last October. We went to the same places as you! In fact, my Facebook profile is in front of a bush full of beautiful white flowers at that same restaurant patio overlooking the ocean at the California lighthouse you wrote about. We spent the rest of the time floating in the gorgeous clear Caribbean waters of Eagle Beach until we had to get back on our cruise ship.
April says
love it! i wish we had gotten to eat at the restaurant. can’t wait to go back!