Aruba North Coast UTV Tour: Gold Ruins, Blackstone Beach & Lunch

Summary

Rugged UTV rides to Aruba’s wild beaches, gold ruins and sea turtles

You’ll drive your own UTV across Aruba’s rugged north coast with a local guide—crunching over limestone trails to Blackstone Beach’s volcanic rocks, exploring Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins, cooling off at Tres Trapi Beach for snorkeling or turtle spotting, and finishing with a fresh island lunch. It’s raw and real—the kind of day that lingers long after you’ve washed off the dust.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the crunch of tires over limestone — that dry, sharp sound that makes you squint into the sun. We all lined up at the edge of the lot, dust masks in hand, while our guide Luis checked licenses and cracked a joke about “not flipping it on your first turn.” I’m not sure if he was serious. The UTVs looked like something out of a Mad Max movie. Once we got going, wind in my face and grit on my lips, I realized this wasn’t just a drive — it was Aruba’s wild side for real.

Blackstone Beach showed up out of nowhere. One minute it’s nothing but cactus and rock; next thing you know, you’re looking at these round black stones scattered everywhere, with waves smacking against them hard enough to drown out your thoughts. Luis pointed out the twin bridges (I’d never have spotted them myself) and told us how storms sometimes rearrange the rocks overnight. I tried to pronounce “Andicuri” correctly — Li laughed when I butchered it — before we bounced along to that beach too. The water there is loud and restless; even standing back from the surf, you feel it in your chest.

Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins felt haunted in a good way. You can still see old stone walls crumbling under the sky, bits of history just lying around like nobody minds. Luis explained how gold fever changed everything here back in the 1800s. Some folks climbed up for photos; I just ran my hand over the rough stone and tried to picture what it sounded like when machines were running instead of seabirds calling overhead.

We finished up near Tres Trapi Beach — this little cove where locals say sea turtles hang out if you’re lucky with your snorkel mask on (I wasn’t). By then my arms were tired from steering but lunch was waiting: grilled grouper so fresh it almost flaked apart before you could get your fork in. Maybe it was just hunger talking but honestly? That meal hit different after all that dust and sun. I still think about that view from California Lighthouse too — two sides of Aruba stretched out under clouds that never quite block the light.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — UTV tour exploring northern Aruba

• Check in and receive safety instructions
• Visit Blackstone Beach and twin bridges
• Pass by Andicuri Beach
• Explore Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins
• Pass by Wariruri Bridge
• Stop at California Lighthouse for views
• Swim and snorkel at sea turtle beach
• Enjoy freshly prepared local meal

Top questions

How long does the Aruba North Coast UTV tour take?

The tour typically runs for half a day, including stops at several beaches and landmarks plus lunch.

Is lunch included on this UTV tour?

Yes, a freshly prepared local lunch is included for morning departures.

Do I need a driver’s license for this Aruba UTV tour?

Yes, you must bring a valid driver’s license to check-in before driving your own UTV.

What should I wear or bring for the UTV tour?

Wear comfortable walking shoes or water shoes; bring towels and reusable water bottles—dust masks are provided.

Are there swimming or snorkeling opportunities on this tour?

Yes, there is time to swim and snorkel at Tres Trapi Beach where sea turtles are often seen.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant travelers or those with injuries?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular issues.

What are some highlights visited during this Aruba UTV trip?

You’ll visit Blackstone Beach, Andicuri Beach, Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins, Wariruri Bridge, California Lighthouse and Tres Trapi Beach.

Does the Aruba UTV tour include pickup?

The description mentions check-in at the starting point; hotel pickup details should be confirmed upon booking.

What’s included

Your day includes safety instruction before departure, use of dust mask and snorkeling equipment (with guidance), ice water refills if you bring your own bottle, ample time at each stop from Blackstone Beach to California Lighthouse—and a freshly prepared local lunch featuring grilled fish or veggie pasta before heading back dusty but happy.