The Perfect 3-Day Aruba Itinerary: How to See Everything
So you've got three full days in Aruba and want to experience the best of what the island offers? Perfect! Three days gives you enough time to hit the major highlights, discover some hidden gems, and still enjoy plenty of beach time. Whether you're staying at our Yellow Cunucu House in Calbas or elsewhere on the island, this itinerary will help you make the most of your time.
Day 1: Beaches, Lighthouses, and Sunset in the North
Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Northwestern Coast Exploration
Start your first day early at Arashi Beach, arriving around 8:00 AM when the sand is still empty and the water is at its clearest. This local favorite offers excellent snorkeling with sea turtles often making appearances near the rocky areas. Spend about 90 minutes here swimming and snorkeling.
Drive 5 minutes to the California Lighthouse (open 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM). Climb to the top for 360-degree views of the island - the rugged north coast on one side and the gentle western beaches on the other. The entrance fee is $10 per person and it's worth every cent for the photo opportunities. Allow 45 minutes here.
Head to Boca Catalina next, a small beach perfect for more snorkeling. The bay is calm and protected, with abundant fish life just meters from shore. This is where locals bring their families for easy snorkeling. Spend about an hour here.
Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:30 PM): Alto Vista
Drive inland to the charming Alto Vista Chapel, the island's first Catholic church built in 1750. The bright yellow chapel sits on a hill with gorgeous views. After taking photos, head to Huchada for authentic Aruban lunch. Try the keshi yena (stuffed cheese) or fresh fish with funchi. Budget $15-25 per person.
Afternoon (1:30 PM - 5:00 PM): Malmok Beach and Noord
Malmok Beach is Aruba's best shore diving and snorkeling spot. The water here is incredibly clear, and you'll see the famous Antilla shipwreck just offshore (too far to swim, but visible from the beach). The rocky shore creates interesting snorkeling terrain. Spend 2-3 hours here.
Evening (5:00 PM - 9:00 PM): Eagle Beach Sunset and Dinner
Head to Eagle Beach for one of the world's best sunsets. This wide, white-sand beach never feels crowded even when busy. Grab a spot near the famous fofoti trees (Aruba's divi-divi trees) for iconic sunset photos. The sun sets around 6:30-7:00 PM depending on season.
For dinner, try Passions on the Beach at the Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort (beachfront dining) or Barefoot Restaurant nearby. Both offer fresh seafood and romantic ambiance. Budget $40-80 per person.
Day 2: Arikok National Park and the Wild Side
Morning (7:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Arikok National Park Adventure
Get an early start - the park gates open at 8:00 AM but arriving at 7:00 AM lets you enjoy the surrounding areas first. Stop at Santa Cruz for breakfast pastries at a local bakery.
Enter Arikok National Park ($15 per adult, $10 per child). You'll need a 4x4 vehicle or can book a guided tour. Here's the best route through the park:
Fontein Cave - See ancient Arawak petroglyphs on the cave walls. The cave stays cool, offering relief from the heat. Allow 30 minutes.
Quadirikiri Cave - Two chambers with natural skylights that illuminate the interior dramatically. Bats roost in the ceiling. Allow 45 minutes and bring a flashlight.
Dos Playa - Two beaches separated by rock formations where the desert meets the sea. Swimming is dangerous here due to strong currents, but the dramatic scenery is unforgettable. Allow 30 minutes.
Natural Pool (Conchi) - The park's highlight requires the bumpiest drive you'll ever experience. The natural pool formed by volcanic rock creates a protected swimming area while waves crash over the barriers. Absolutely magical! Allow 90 minutes including drive time.
Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:30 PM): San Nicolas
Drive to San Nicolas, Aruba's second-largest town with incredible street art. Park downtown and grab lunch at Kamini's Kitchen for authentic local food or Nicolaas Store for sandwiches and coffee in a hip atmosphere. Walk around town to see the famous murals - many tell stories of Aruba's history and culture. Budget $12-20 per person for lunch.
Afternoon (1:30 PM - 5:00 PM): Baby Beach
Baby Beach is a shallow, calm lagoon perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The protected bay makes it ideal for families, but everyone loves the impossibly clear water. Rent snorkel gear ($15-20) and explore the area where the lagoon meets the open ocean - that's where you'll see the most fish. The nearby Big Mama Grill food truck serves cold drinks and snacks.
Evening (5:00 PM - 9:00 PM): Savaneta
Head to Savaneta, Aruba's first capital and now a charming fishing village. Watch the sunset at Pos Chiquito Beach Park or Mangel Halto Beach, both offering local atmosphere away from tourist crowds.
For dinner, Zeerovers is the quintessential Aruba experience. Pick your fresh fish from the display, and they'll grill it while you grab a table. It's casual, authentic, and delicious. Bring cash! Budget $20-35 per person. If you want upscale, Flying Fishbone offers tables right in the water - literally. Budget $50-100 per person.
Day 3: Oranjestad Culture and South Coast Relaxation
Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Oranjestad Exploration
Spend your final morning in Oranjestad, Aruba's colorful capital. Start at the Renaissance Marketplace where you can grab breakfast and coffee. Walk through the city center admiring the Dutch colonial architecture painted in pastels - pink, yellow, blue, and green buildings line the streets.
Visit Fort Zoutman and Willem III Tower, the oldest building in Aruba (1796). The small museum inside shares the island's history. Entry is $5 and worth 30 minutes.
Browse the shops along Main Street and Renaissance Mall. If you're interested in aloe products, visit the Aruba Aloe Museum & Factory ($8 entry) to learn about the island's aloe industry and watch products being made.
Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:30 PM): Oranjestad
Try Yemanja Woodfired Grill for excellent lunch with harbor views, or Barefoot Restaurant if you skipped it Day 1. For budget-friendly local food, find small restaurants in the side streets serving traditional Aruban plates. Budget $15-30 per person.
Afternoon (1:30 PM - 5:00 PM): Mangel Halto and Spanish Lagoon
Mangel Halto is one of Aruba's best-kept secrets. This mangrove-lined beach offers exceptional snorkeling with minimal development. The mangrove trees provide natural shade, and the fish life is abundant. Perfect for your last beach afternoon. Allow 2-3 hours.
If you have energy, kayak through Spanish Lagoon, a brackish water lagoon surrounded by mangroves. Several operators rent kayaks by the hour ($25-40). It's peaceful, beautiful, and excellent for bird watching.
Evening (5:00 PM - 9:00 PM): Your Choice
For your final evening, choose based on your preference:
Option A - Beach Sunset: Return to Eagle Beach or try Druif Beach (quieter neighbor to Eagle Beach) for one last Aruban sunset.
Option B - Town Vibes: Explore Palm Beach area after dark when the restaurants and bars come alive. The beach stays lit and lively into the evening.
Option C - Local Experience: If it's Tuesday, attend the Bon Bini Festival at Fort Zoutman (6:00-8:30 PM, $10 entry). This weekly cultural festival features music, dance, local food, and crafts. It's touristy but fun and authentically Aruban.
For your farewell dinner, splurge a bit:
Papiamento Restaurant - Romantic garden setting in a historic cunucu house, outstanding food ($50-100 per person)
The Old Man and the Sea - Upscale seafood in Savaneta ($60-120 per person)
Quinta del Carmen - Fine dining in Oranjestad ($50-90 per person)
Elements - Modern cuisine at Bucuti Resort ($70-100 per person)
Practical Tips for Your 3-Day Aruba Trip
Car Rental You absolutely need a rental car for this itinerary. Book in advance for rates around $35-60 per day. For Day 2 in Arikok, you need a 4x4 ($60-100 per day) or book a guided tour instead ($85-120 per person).
Timing This itinerary assumes you have three full days, not counting arrival and departure days. Adjust based on your flight times. Morning flights let you start Day 1 in the afternoon; evening flights give you most of Day 3.
Budget Breakdown (per person for 3 days)
Meals: $150-300
Activities/Entry fees: $100-150
Car rental (split between travelers): $50-100
Total: $300-550 per person (not including accommodation)
What to Pack
Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50+)
Snorkel gear (or budget $15-20 per day to rent)
Water shoes for rocky beaches
Light hiking shoes for Arikok
Reusable water bottle
Cash for small vendors and Zeerovers
Waterproof phone case
Hat and sunglasses
Best Time for This Itinerary Year-round works, but April-August offers the best balance of good weather and lower prices. The wind picks up June-August, perfect for wind sports but making some beaches choppier.
Staying at Yellow Cunucu Our location in Calbas puts you close to Savaneta and Baby Beach, making Day 2's afternoon especially convenient. You're also central for accessing both northern and southern attractions. The quiet neighborhood means better rest between busy days!
Alternative Add-Ons
If you want to modify this itinerary, here are great alternatives:
Swap Out:
Replace Arikok Park with a full-day catamaran cruise (snorkeling, open bar, beach BBQ)
Replace Oranjestad morning with the Donkey Sanctuary and Philip's Animal Garden
Replace any beach with a water sports lesson (kitesurfing, paddleboarding, kayaking)
Add On (if you can squeeze it in):
Sunset horseback riding on the beach
ATV or UTV tour to remote areas
Scuba diving (Aruba has excellent wreck dives)
Deep-sea fishing charter
Making the Most of Three Days
Three days in Aruba gives you a genuine taste of island life without feeling rushed. You'll hit the major highlights, discover some local favorites, and have time to truly relax. The key is balancing structured sightseeing with beach time - this itinerary does exactly that.
Ready to experience the perfect three days in paradise? Book your stay at Yellow Cunucu and use our central location to maximize your Aruba adventure!