Need Aruba advice: Dive, Snorkel, Dine, etc

We stayed at Barcelo as well. Walk down to the beach and take a left. There is a building there on the beach for Aruba Watersports Center. We did the Arusun snorkeling and booze cruise (took you snorkeling over the ship wreck and into a cove with coral and plenty of fish) and had a great time!

As far as dining, we took a cab to Madame Janette's and it was fantastic!

Unfortunately we did not rent anything. The only time we left the resort we took a cab.

Excellent Dining:
Madame Janette's
Papiamentos
Flying Fishbone - Make reservations at sunset
Faro Blanco - it's at the lighthouse, sunset reservations

On a Thursday, definitely go to Baby Beach first, then on to Charlies Bar in San Nicolas on the way back. While at Charlies bar, there is a Carrubian Festival, check when you get there, it happens on Thursday of every other week, it's fun.

Jolly Pirate during the day is fun, booze cruise. however, the Tranquillo I think has sunset cruise with dining. Don't know how good the food is though.

Baby Beach is a good snorkel place, try going to the Natural Pool, worth the hike.

I can firm the Flying Fishbone. On the other side of the island. The drive there isn’t pretty but good dining.
Also grab as much alcohol at Duty Free as you ca. Unless you don’t drink. Drinks are pricey there

other restaurants that I liked

Keep in mind I am from NEw orleans, so i eat well here. Food in Aruba is just ok and all in all uninspiring, but these were our favorite spots for dinner, all which over ocean view expect El Gaucho.

Flying Fishbone
Barefoot
Passions on the Beach
El Gaucho (brazilian steakhouse)

Zeerover for lunch was the most memorable experience. Just a casual lunch on the water. About authentic as you can get


If you are looking for something to do, i found this blog with directions on how to drive and then hike to the Natural Pool. It was a fun little morning for us. Keep in mind that you can take an ATV tour through Aritok national park to get here. It's easy and im sure its fun, but time wise, you are at the mercy of the tour guide.

Below is a guide on where to drive and park your car. You then hike for about an hour; probably 1.75 miles or so. If you are in decent shape you can do it. A few hills, some sand and rocky terrains. I wouldnt do it with kids under 12 or older folks. But it is fun, and scenic, and if you go in the morning you will miss hoards of ATV tourist. You do need to stop by the national park office and buy a wristband for admitance to the park.


LINK