Aruba: Beach Bus Sightseeing Tour & Snorkeling with Pickup

Summary

See Aruba’s wild north coast rocks, gold ruins, lighthouse and swim in blue water

You’ll ride Aruba’s beach bus with music playing and locals waving back as you explore rocky coasts, gold mill ruins, and peaceful chapels with a friendly guide. Swim or snorkel at Arashi Beach before heading home salty-haired and smiling—probably still humming those carnival songs.

What’s the experience like?

“You’re not allowed to be grumpy on this bus,” our guide joked as we climbed aboard — and honestly, with the music already going and the driver waving at every single person on the street, it was impossible anyway. The seats were a little sun-warmed (bring shorts you don’t mind sticking to) but the breeze came through open windows smelling like salt and sunscreen. We’d barely left Oranjestad before someone started singing along to a carnival song I didn’t know, but everyone else did. No one cared if you sang off-key.

I kept thinking Aruba would just be beaches, but the north side is all wild rocks and crashing waves — nothing like the calm water near our hotel. At Baby Natural Bridge, our guide (Luis? Or maybe it was Lucio — I’m terrible with names) explained how these arches formed from volcanic limestone while a couple of goats wandered around in the background. There’s a snack shack there where I tried something called pastechi — kind of like a pastry with cheese inside. Not sure if it’s meant for breakfast or anytime, but it hit the spot.

The Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins looked almost haunted against the bright sky — you can still run your hand over the old stone walls. Some of us climbed up for photos; others just stood there listening to Luis talk about gold fever days. He made a joke about “Aruban gold” now being sunshine and happy hours. We stopped at Alto Vista Chapel too — tiny yellow church perched on a hill with prayer stones all around. It felt peaceful even with our group chatting quietly outside.

By the time we reached California Lighthouse I was already sun-pink (bring extra sunscreen), but that view really is something — ocean on both sides, one side rough and foamy, one side calm blue stripes. Last stop was Arashi Beach: white sand so fine it squeaks under your feet. They handed out snorkel gear for anyone who wanted it; I mostly floated in shallow water watching little fish dart around my toes. There’s a bar right there if you want a drink before heading back.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Aruba island sightseeing and beach visit

• Hotel or cruise ship pickup
• Visit Natural Rock Formation Garden
• See Baby Natural Bridge and buy snacks
• Explore Bushiribana Goldmill Ruins
• Swim and cliff jump at Natural Pool
• Visit Alto Vista Chapel
• View from California Lighthouse
• Relax at Arashi Beach with refreshments
• Return to hotel or cruise ship

Top questions

How long is the Aruba beach bus sightseeing tour?

The tour lasts approximately 4 hours from pickup to drop-off.

Is hotel pickup included for this Aruba sightseeing tour?

Yes, hotel or cruise port pickup and drop-off are included in the tour price.

Do I need to bring my own snorkel gear for Arashi Beach?

No, snorkel equipment will be provided at Arashi Beach during your stop.

What landmarks are visited on this Aruba sightseeing tour?

The tour visits Arashi Beach, California Lighthouse, Alto Vista Chapel, Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins, Baby Natural Bridge and rock formations.

Are snacks included during the Aruba beach bus tour?

Yes, snacks are provided as part of your day trip experience.

Is this Aruba sightseeing tour suitable for children?

Yes, children can join but must be accompanied by an adult; infants may sit on laps or use strollers/prams.

What should I bring for this day trip in Aruba?

Bring swimming clothes, towels, sandals or shoes suitable for rocks/natural pool areas, sunscreen and maybe extra water.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel or cruise port pickup and drop-off by colorful beach bus; guidance from a local storyteller; snacks along the way; all transport between sights; plus use of snorkel equipment during your hour at Arashi Beach before returning comfortably to your starting point.