Aruba: Discovering the Best Family-Friendly Hiking Trails

While Aruba is primarily renowned for its beaches and other exciting activities, the island also boasts several relaxed and family-friendly hiking trails. Within the Arikok National Park, you can marvel at natural pools, rock arches, and desert-like landscapes.

Don't expect any breathtaking scenery akin to what you'd find in U.S. National Parks, but hiking in Aruba remains a great way to escape the crowds, enjoy the coastline, and burn some calories.

Here are our picks for the best hiking trails on Aruba! If you have other favorite routes, please share them in the comments section at the end of this post.

1. Conchi Natural Pool
   Conchi Natural Pool is one of the most famous attractions in Arikok National Park. It's a beautiful blue-green tidal pool where you can swim, surrounded by rocky walls that shield you from the ocean waves.

   There are several ways to reach the natural pool, but most people opt for a jeep ride. Alternatively, you can hike from the Arikok Visitor Center.

   Along the way, you might spot goats, lizards, and other interesting creatures. The ultimate reward is swimming in the natural pool at the end of the trail.

   It's a long and exposed hike that can be very hot. We recommend purchasing a park pass a day in advance so you can start hiking as early as 6 AM. Don't forget to bring a hat, sunscreen, and more water than you think you'll need.

   Distance: 10.5 km (6.5 miles) round trip
   Duration: 3-4 hours
   
   

2. Daimari to Conchi Natural Pool
   Another route to Conchi Natural Pool is by hiking from Daimari Bay. We prefer this trail as it's slightly easier and mostly follows the coastline.

   You'll also pass Boca Keto, a rugged twin beach with unique rock formations known as "Mini Aruba" because it resembles a smaller version of Aruba from above!

   This was our favorite hike in Arikok National Park, and we didn't see a single person the entire time.

   Remember to wear a hat, sunscreen, and bring enough water. This is one of the most remote spots on the island, so you don't want to get into trouble here.

   You must park your car at the hilltop in front of Rancho Daimari (map provided here) as the road is very bumpy and rugged.

   Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles) round trip
   Duration: 60-90 minutes
   
   

3. Cerro Colorado Natural Bridge
   Aruba boasts several natural bridges formed by years of ocean erosion, with Andy's Bay Bridge being the most popular and now visited by many day tours.

   However, the best natural bridge on Aruba is a bit harder to find and not visited by many tourists. We're talking about the Cerro Colorado Natural Bridge, located at the southern tip of the island. You can find it on this map.

   Cerro Colorado Bridge is a stunning arch that frames the ocean! You can drive to San Nicolas and hike for 10 minutes (although a bit tricky) along the rocks to reach it.

   The trail to this natural bridge is unmarked and a bit dangerous with sharp rocks and steep downhill paths. We only recommend it for people with steady feet and good shoes, but the effort is worth it!

4. Hooiberg Hill
   Hooiberg Hill, in central Aruba, is the island's second-highest peak at 165 meters (541 feet). The name "Hooiberg" means haystack in Dutch, named for its shape.

   Despite its intimidating appearance, Hooiberg isn't difficult to climb, and fit hikers can reach the top in just 20 minutes. Although there are hundreds of steps, they are paved!

   It's a great workout, so avoid hiking during the hottest part of the day. Make sure to wear a hat and bring enough water.

   From the top, you can see breathtaking views of the entire island of Aruba and even Venezuela in the distance. It's also a perfect spot to watch sunrise or sunset!

   Distance: 1 km (0.6 miles) round trip
   Duration: About 30 minutes
   
   

5. Ayo Rock
   Ayo Rock is another great hiking spot in Aruba, suitable for families, children, and travelers of all ages.

   Climbing these huge boulders is a lot of fun, and you can even see local rock paintings left by the Arawak people, the island's first settlers, long ago.

   The caves and passages between the rocks add another interesting element to the experience, but beware of yellowjacket nests as you might encounter them here sometimes.

   We stumbled upon this place while driving around Aruba, but exploring it was a lot of fun. It's free to enter and open 24 hours a day.

6. Nord Kap Trail
   This trail starts at the famous Natural Bridge parking lot in Aruba, a popular spot for day tours (map provided here). The hike will take you to Blackstone Beach, one of the most unique beaches on the island.

   This secluded beach has strong currents and isn't suitable for swimming, but it's covered with smooth black rocks and features an unusual three-pronged natural bridge known as the Three-Legged Bridge.

   After reaching Blackstone Beach, I decided to turn back, but if you continue, the trail will eventually take you to Daimari Beach and Conchi Natural Pool. Overall, this is one of the best hikes in Aruba if you want to see unusual beaches and sea arches!
   
   

7. Westpunt Trail
   This trail will take you along the northwestern tip of Aruba, where you can enjoy ocean views, dunes, and sights of the California Lighthouse.

   Despite being close to other popular tourist attractions like Alci Beach and other spots on Aruba, Westpunt feels surprisingly secluded. The entire trail is flat and easy but unmarked, so you can choose your own hiking route.

   If you walk the entire Westpunt Trail and return via the road to the California Lighthouse, the total distance is about 3.5 km (2.2 miles).

   However, most people might prefer to walk along the coast for half an hour and then turn back. Regardless, it's a great place to avoid the crowds!

8. Dos Playa Trail
   Dos Playa features two scenic beaches within Arikok National Park, but the road is so rugged that some people opt to hike instead of driving.

   The beaches are usually deserted and perfect for taking photos, with waves crashing against the rocky shoreline. But avoid swimming here.

   It takes about 20 minutes to hike to the first beach and just 10 or 15 minutes to the second.
   
   

9. Jamanota Hill
   Jamanota is the highest point on Aruba, standing at 188 meters (617 feet). The name comes from the Arawak language, roughly meaning "source of the great spirit."

   You can drive up to the top and park, then hike the remaining distance. However, I've recently heard that there's a fence with a large hole that you must squeeze through. It's a fantastic spot to watch sunrise or sunset!
   
   

English Version:

Aruba: Discovering the Best Family-Friendly Hiking Trails

While primarily known for its beaches and exciting activities, Aruba also offers several relaxed and family-friendly hiking trails. Within Arikok National Park, you can witness natural pools, rock arches, and desert-like landscapes.

Don't expect breathtaking scenery akin to U.S. National Parks, but hiking in Aruba remains a great escape from crowds, a way to enjoy the coastline, and a means to burn calories.

Here are our picks for the best hiking trails on Aruba! If you have other favorite routes, please share them in the comments at the end of this post.

1. Conchi Natural Pool
   One of the most famous attractions in Arikok National Park is Conchi Natural Pool. It's a beautiful blue-green tidal pool surrounded by rocky walls, offering protection from ocean waves.

   Several options are available to reach the natural pool, but most opt for a jeep ride. Alternatively, you can hike from the Arikok Visitor Center.

   Along the way, you may spot goats, lizards, and other interesting creatures.