What to do in Aruba - NOT beach people

Our first time in Aruba on 19 April 2017 and sadly, our swimming and lounging on the beach days are over (skin issues...). We're not shoppers, but do like history, nature and getting a sense of what's distinctive about a new place. Not fond of large bus tours, so we're trying to avoid the ship tours if possible.

Would love to hear what makes Aruba special for you that you think we might enjoy.

Thanks!

Kathy

We just picked up a tour at the port. We were in a small mini bus and the guide was very good. Aruba is very arid. One of our least favourite Caribbean islands.

We just did Trikes Aruba this week which is a very small group tour to all of the sites around the island. I'm not typically a motorcycle person but this was a really good time.

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While Aruba is mostly about water activities....

It won't be hard to find a taxi to take you to places like the Butterfly Farm, California Lighthouse, and to the other sights like the baby natural bridge.:)

Aruba is 90% desert. Take an off-road tour, UTV's, ATV's or jeep safari.

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Aruba is sunny no matter what you do. For example, the off road tours will have you in open air (but shaded) vehicles, so you'll still have sun exposure.

Food for thought, as I am also trying to limit my sun exposure. This year I bought long sleeved surf shirts with hoods.

This brand, slightly different styling.

http://www.volcom.com/distortion-block-l-s-su17-n0311703.html

Yeah, I was the only person on the beach wearing something like this, but I didn't care. Obviously I don't know the extent of your problems, but figured I would throw it out as an option so that you potentially don't have to throw out beach visits for the rest of your life.

There are tours in enclosed vans. We've toured several times with Bully. He gives private tours. Sonny Binns also gives great tours. He takes small groups. You can find lots of info about them on this site.

Rent a 4WD vehicle (you can do this online) and have fun exploring the island...especially the Northeast/East side where parts seem like the lunar landscape. If you have no spirit of adventure you can simply join a tour that does the same thing (for more then a simple rental).

Hank

I would also recommend 'Trikes Aruba' we've done this twice now

First time husband rode trike but on the second occasion I did :)

Really fab way to see the Island