Aruba North Coast: EZ Raider Tour, Gold Ruins & Pearl Cove Swim

Summary

Electric ride past gold ruins, rock formations & secret coves in Aruba

You’ll ride an electric EZ Raider along Aruba’s rugged north coast with a local guide, exploring gold mill ruins and rock formations before swimming at secluded Pearl Cove. Snack on fresh pastechi at a roadside stop and meet rescued donkeys along the way. Expect wind in your hair and stories you’ll want to tell later.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the wind to hit quite that hard as we zipped out along Aruba’s north coast on those chunky EZ Raiders. Sand kept sneaking into my shoes (should’ve worn the water ones they suggested). Our guide, Eduardo, grinned and pointed out the jagged edge of the collapsed Natural Bridge before telling us how his grandmother used to picnic there. The sea was loud—like it was trying to drown out our laughter when someone in our group nearly toppled over a cactus. Honestly, I still think about that view from the top of Bushiribana Gold Mill ruins—just sky and ocean everywhere.

We stopped for a quick bite at a roadside shack—pastechi, this flaky pastry thing filled with cheese or meat (I got both because why not). The woman behind the counter said something in Papiamento I couldn’t catch; Eduardo tried to teach me but I probably butchered it. There were donkeys at a little farm nearby, rescued ones apparently. One nudged my elbow while I tried to snap a photo and I almost dropped my phone into the dust. So yeah, bring your sense of humor.

Pearl Cove was quieter than I expected. Not empty exactly, just peaceful—water clear enough you could see your toes even after kicking up sand. We couldn’t swim at the cave pool anymore (they closed it last year), but honestly? This felt better. The rocks around Ayo and Casibari formations looked like something out of another planet; you can climb up for a 360° view if you’re not afraid of heights. By the time we headed back toward town, my face was salty and sunburned and I didn’t really mind.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — North Coast Adventure and Sightseeing

• Visit Bushiribana Gold Mill ruins
• See the Natural Cave Pool scenery
• Swim at Pearl Cove Beach
• Stop at private cove beaches
• Enjoy Wariruri Bay and Blowhole
• Walk through Ayo Rock Formation
• Hike Casibari Rock Formation viewpoint
• Visit local shack for pastechi snack
• See local farm with rescued donkeys

Top questions

How long does the Aruba EZ Raider North Coast tour last?

The tour lasts about 1 hour and 40 minutes from start to finish.

Is hotel pickup included for this Aruba north coast adventure?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included with your booking.

Can you swim at the Natural Cave Pool during this tour?

No, swimming is no longer allowed at Natural Cave Pool since September 2025 due to local authority restrictions.

What should I wear or bring for the EZ Raider tour?

Wear water shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, and have your bathing suit under your clothes for swimming at Pearl Cove.

Are snacks or drinks provided during the tour?

A local snack called pastechi is included at a roadside stop; bottled water is also provided.

Is this Aruba day trip suitable for people with health concerns?

This tour isn’t recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, poor cardiovascular health, or pregnant travelers.

Do you visit any animal farms during this day trip from Oranjestad?

Yes, there’s a visit to a local farm where you can meet rescued donkeys near Aruba’s countryside.

What are some main stops on this EZ Raider adventure?

Main stops include Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins, Natural Bridge area, Ayo & Casibari Rock Formations, Pearl Cove beach and more.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Aruba, bottled water throughout the adventure, use of an all-terrain electric EZ Raider with helmet and safety briefing from a professional local guide. You’ll get history lessons right on site at each landmark plus enjoy a traditional pastechi snack during a stop near the countryside before heading back into town.