Aruba Adventures: Exploring the One Happy Island by Car, Not ATV

Passport + Purpose
May 4
3 min read

If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, white sand, and Caribbean charm with a Dutch twist—Aruba is calling. On my recent trip, I discovered the best way to explore this incredible island isn’t by joining the ATV convoys clogging the trails. Instead, I rented a car and created my own adventure, exploring at my own pace while respecting the island’s rhythm—and the locals.

Why Aruba?

Aruba offers that perfect combo of laid-back beach vibes and off-the-beaten-path exploration. With year-round sunshine, super-friendly locals, and a rich blend of cultures, it’s ideal for both chill seekers and curious explorers. It’s no wonder they call it One Happy Island—and after just a few hours, you’ll feel it too.

Getting Around: Why Renting a Car Is the Way to Go

Many visitors opt for ATVs, but after hearing from locals—and seeing the dust clouds and trail damage firsthand—I’m glad I went with a rental car. It gave me the freedom to explore every corner of the island without contributing to the erosion of natural landscapes. Bonus: Aruba is small (only 20 miles long), so nothing is ever more than an hour away.

Tip: Rent something with decent clearance if you plan to explore more rugged terrain—some of the backroads to popular natural attractions aren’t exactly paved paradise.

Can’t-Miss Sights in Aruba

1. Arikok National Park

This park covers nearly 20% of the island and offers dramatic landscapes—caves, dunes, cliffs, and natural pools. Skip the ATV chaos and take your rental car as far as it’ll go, then hike in for a peaceful experience.

2. Natural Pool (Conchi)

Hidden within Arikok, this volcanic rock pool is one of Aruba’s gems. It’s a bit of a trek, but totally worth it—especially if you get there early to beat the crowds.

3. Baby Beach

Perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Its shallow, calm waters are great for a relaxing beach day. Plus, it’s a favorite among locals.

4. California Lighthouse

Drive north for a scenic view of the island’s coastline. There’s a cute little restaurant nearby too, and it’s the perfect spot for sunset.

5. San Nicolas Street Art

Take a drive to the southern town of San Nicolas to see a bold and colorful open-air art gallery. It’s a great way to experience Aruba’s creative pulse.

Dive Deeper—Literally: The Atlantis Submarine Ride

One of the most unique (and underrated) ways to experience Aruba? A submarine ride. Yep, you read that right. I boarded the Atlantis Submarine in Oranjestad and descended 130 feet below the surface. The views? Absolutely surreal. Shipwrecks, coral reefs, and marine life like you’ve only seen on NatGeo.

If you’re not a scuba diver (or even if you are), this is a safe, dry, and awe-inspiring way to explore Aruba’s underwater world.

Respecting the Island

While Aruba thrives on tourism, it’s important to travel thoughtfully. Many locals are frustrated by the damage caused by ATV tours, especially in ecologically sensitive areas like Arikok. Renting a car not only supports local businesses but also helps reduce wear on the island’s natural resources. Responsible travel isn’t a trend—it’s the new normal.

Final Takeaways

Rent a car for flexibility and local respect.
Avoid ATV tours—great for social media, not for sustainability.
Don’t miss the Atlantis Submarine—it’s one of the few places in the world where you can do this.
Explore beyond the beaches. Aruba has caves, cliffs, art, and amazing local food.
Take your time. Aruba is small, but its spirit is huge.