Is there an ultimate 'Guide' to Aruba, or the ABC's?

[ParrotHeadCruiser1]

We booked way last minute for an ABC cruise and we've never been to Aruba!!  We are looking for just a chill relaxing day, but maybe not a resort for a day.  We just aren't sure what we want, but is there an 'overall guide' or 'compilation' in one post that describe the best things to see, do, explore, in the ABC's?

[cleobella]

I don't know about an Ultimate Guide, but there is an I Love Aruba Facebook page that has feedback and input from locals and other tourists.  I can tell you that we have been to Aruba twice, once on a cruise and once for a 10 day stay, and are going back again soon. We really enjoyed a Trikes Aruba ride all over the Island, if you are adventurous.  The Trikes are easy to drive with a small group and a guide leading, it's pretty fun.  We also have gone out to the Arikok National Park which was really nice to see.  There are natural bridges, caves and a Natural Pool.  The Natural Pool involves some climbing to get down to it and a climb to get back up, but it's worth it if you can do it.  To drive around Arikok you best go with a tour group, taking a rental car there is a bit risky as it is rough driving.  It is also fun to just walk around the downtown, a very accessible walk from the port.  There's shopping, restaurants and  also there is a Casino.   There are so many beaches in Aruba, all a bit different and special, so if you love beaches you will be in heaven!  Some are secluded. some are for snorkeling and water sports, some are near the fun action.  In Curacao we just walked off the ship, visited a Zoo near the port to see the beautiful Peacocks, had a great coffee at Juan Valdez, and then walked about the port to see the colourful houses and shop.  Bonaire is small.  When we were there a few years ago there was a local market near the port, great for some handmade local products.  Otherwise the thing there is really the snorkel or diving.  We took a local tour out on a boat, where we snorkeled with assistance and then were served a great stir fry lunch and some drinks. It was our first time snorkeling and the guides were so great that we've been avid snorkelers ever since, lol!

[mitsugirly]

Some consider my website/blog the ultimate guide to places in the Caribbean. If you haven't left yet, you could check it out and see if any places interest you. They are extensive reviews with a LOT of pictures to give you a feel for the places. We've been to Aruba several times by cruise ship and several times for land vacations. Haven't been to Bonnaire yet and have only done scuba diving in Curacao both times we've been so can't help too much with that.

 

ARUBA