Exploring Aruba by ATV: An Adventure from the Renaissance Marriott
Aruba is a paradise known for its turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and sunny skies. But there's more to this island than its famous coastlines. On our recent trip, we discovered Aruba's wild side by renting an ATV and venturing into its rugged northern terrain. Based at the Renaissance Marriott, we were perfectly positioned to explore the island's hidden gems. Here's how our adventure unfolded.
Renting an ATV in Aruba
Aruba can be one of the pricier Caribbean destinations, but we found a great deal at George's Cycles. With a well-maintained fleet and competitive prices, George's was our go-to choice for an ATV rental. We opted for a Grizzly 350, which comfortably seated my fiancée and me. A four-hour rental gave us just enough time to explore the northern part of the island, and believe me, it was an experience we won’t soon forget.
The Renaissance Marriott, located in Oranjestad, proved to be an excellent starting point. Although George's Cycles was close enough to walk to, we took advantage of their complimentary shuttle service, which whisked us to the rental shop and back. The convenience set the tone for what would be a stress-free day of adventure.
Northern Aruba: The Journey Begins
California Lighthouse
We began our journey at the California Lighthouse, a must-see for any visitor to Aruba. Standing tall at the island’s northwestern tip, this iconic lighthouse was built in 1910 and named after the S.S. California, a ship that tragically sank off the coast. From the top, you’re treated to panoramic views of the island and the surrounding Caribbean Sea—a perfect way to kick off our ATV adventure.
The lighthouse area is also a popular spot for photos, so make sure to bring your camera! The rocky terrain and the contrast between the blue sky and the white structure make for some stunning shots. We spent a bit of time here, soaking in the views before heading off into the desert.
Sand Dunes and Desert Landscapes
From the California Lighthouse, we rode straight into Aruba’s vast sand dunes. This part of the island feels almost otherworldly, with endless stretches of sand, sparse vegetation, and the occasional wandering goat. The Grizzly 350 handled the terrain like a champ, allowing us to navigate the challenging dunes with ease.
As we made our way through the dunes, we took a few breaks to admire the landscape and snap some photos. The wide-open spaces, dotted with cacti and framed by a deep blue sky, made for incredible backdrops. If you’re a fan of adventure photography, this is the place to be.
Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins
Our next stop was the Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins, a historical site that offers a glimpse into Aruba’s gold rush era. These ruins are the remnants of a 19th-century gold processing plant, where miners once toiled to extract gold from the island's rocky soil. Today, the crumbling stone walls stand as a monument to Aruba’s rich history.
Exploring the ruins, we could almost hear the echoes of the past as we walked through the stone corridors. The site is perched on a bluff overlooking the sea, making it a great spot to take in the coastal views while pondering the island’s storied past. It’s a place where history and natural beauty converge, and it was one of the highlights of our trip.
Discovering a Hidden Cave Pool
One of the most exciting parts of our ATV journey was stumbling upon a hidden cave pool. After navigating some rough terrain, we arrived at this secluded spot, where a rickety ladder led us down into the cave. Once inside, we were greeted by cool, crystal-clear water—a refreshing escape from the heat of the desert.
Swimming in the cave pool felt like something out of a movie. The sun streamed in through a small opening above, illuminating the water and creating a magical atmosphere. If you’re up for a bit of adventure, this hidden gem is well worth the effort to find.
A Perfect Evening in Oranjestad
After our dusty and exhilarating day on the ATVs, we returned to the Renaissance Marriott, where we freshened up and headed out for a memorable evening.
Dining at Quinta del Carmen
We started our evening with dinner at Quinta del Carmen, an elegant restaurant housed in a beautifully restored historic mansion. The ambiance was romantic, the food was nothing short of spectacular, and the service was impeccable. It was the perfect place to unwind after a day of adventure.
Drinks at Apotek Speakeasy
Later, we made our way to Apotek Speakeasy, a hidden gem just behind our hotel. This chic bar offered a unique experience, with craft cocktails and an intimate atmosphere. The best part? It was just a short walk back to our hotel—perfect after a long day of adventuring.
Unwinding at Flamingo Island
On our final day, we treated ourselves to a relaxing visit to Flamingo Island. This private island, accessible from the Renaissance Marriott, is famous for its resident flamingos that roam freely along the beach. It was the perfect way to unwind after our adventurous day on the ATVs.
The tranquil waters, soft sand, and of course, the flamingos, made for a peaceful end to our trip. We lounged in hammocks, sipped on cocktails, and simply soaked in the beauty of Aruba.
Capturing Memories
Our ATV adventure in Aruba was filled with unforgettable moments, and we made sure to capture as many as we could. Whether it was the striking landscapes of the sand dunes, the historical intrigue of the Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins, or the serene beauty of Flamingo Island, every stop offered a unique photo opportunity.
Here are a few more snapshots from our journey that capture the spirit of our adventure:
Final Thoughts
Exploring Aruba by ATV was a thrilling and unique way to see the island. From the towering California Lighthouse to the hidden cave pools and everything in between, we experienced a side of Aruba that most tourists miss. The Renaissance Marriott provided the perfect base for our adventures, and George's Cycles made renting an ATV easy and affordable.
If you're planning a trip to Aruba, I highly recommend taking the time to explore the island on an ATV. It’s a chance to get off the beaten path and see the natural beauty and historical sites that make Aruba so special.