The Best Things to Do in Noord Aruba (Before Everyone Else Finds Out)

On the northern edge of Aruba, time slows down. The breeze smells like salt and sunscreen, and everything feels a little more vivid. This is Noord Aruba, a place that still feels like a discovery.

‍

But let’s be clear: Noord isn’t a postcard. It’s better. It’s your towel on soft sand, salt on your skin after a swim, laughter echoing after snorkeling with parrotfish.

‍

This isn’t brochure-perfect. It’s the Aruba you’ll remember: bright, raw, real.

‍

From chasing sunrises to feeding camels or diving into the deep blue, Noord turns simple moments into vivid memories.

‍

Here’s your guide to the 5 best things to do in Noord Aruba, before everyone else finds out.

‍

Swim Where the Waves Kiss the Rocks at Conchi

Conchi Natural Pool is one of Aruba’s hidden gems. Formed by volcanic rock, this secluded coastal pool sits along the Caribbean Sea and offers calm waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling, surrounded by rugged cliffs and stunning ocean views.

‍

Getting there is an adventure. You’ll need a 4x4, a guided tour, or even a horseback ride to tackle the rough, bumpy terrain. But that’s part of the charm.

‍

What awaits is a crystal-clear pool carved into the rock, where waves crash nearby but never disturb the serenity inside.

‍

Locals call it a must-see. They’re right.

‍

Bring water shoes, those rocks are slippery. And if you have goggles or a snorkel, you’ll spot colorful fish just beneath the surface.

‍

It’s peaceful. It’s raw. It feels like Aruba’s best-kept secret.

‍

Feed Exotic Animals at Philips Animal Garden

It’s a 10-minute drive from Palm Beach, but it feels like you’ve stepped into someone’s backyard oasis.

‍

The place isn’t flashy. But it’s filled with love. Exotic animals rescued from the region now call this sanctuary home.

‍

Here’s the real joy: you can feed them. Not with your phone out, but with actual carrots and pellets.

‍

Kids will go wild for the deer (yes, real deer in Aruba), the friendly donkeys, and the curious monkeys.

‍

Adults? You’ll find yourself smiling at a camel’s slow blink or laughing when a parrot tries to say “hello.”

‍

Locals say it’s a “must-do.” And they’re right. This isn’t a zoo. It’s a memory.

‍

Take Pictures with Aruba’s Iconic Tree

Standing strong against the trade winds, the Divi Divi tree in Noord Aruba is more than just a landmark, it's a living symbol of Aruba's enduring spirit.

‍

With branches forever bent toward the southwest, it has quietly guided travelers for generations.

‍

Visit at sunrise or sunset for a peaceful moment of reflection, or to snap that perfect Aruba photo.

‍

And let’s be honest: no Aruba trip is complete without sharing this iconic tree.

‍

With a GigSky eSIM, you’ll have internet when others don’t, so you can post it instantly.

Dive Into the Deep Blue at Boca Catalina

Snorkel gear is non-negotiable here. This isn’t a beach where you sit and watch waves, it’s where you become part of the reef.

‍

The water is so clear you’ll see your own toes dance in the sand. Schools of fish shimmer like confetti just beneath the surface.

‍

People online keep saying it’s their favorite snorkel spot in Aruba, and not because it’s fancy.

‍

It’s just… real. Quiet. Peaceful.

Want a tip from someone who’s been there? Go early. The sea is calmer, the light is better, and you might just get the reef all to yourself.

‍

Noord Aruba has a way of turning even the smallest adventure into something magical. From Boca Catalina’s vibrant underwater world to the warm breeze at sunset, every corner invites you to slow down and soak in the moment.

‍

Taste Aruba’s Food the Way Locals Do

Exploring makes you hungry. And Aruba doesn’t play when it comes to flavor. Noord offers some must-try bites that’ll have you licking your fingers and googling how to recreate them back home.

‍

Pastechi: Like the cousin of an empanada, but more buttery and usually stuffed with cheese, meat, or fish. Grab one from a local food truck, it hits harder than any five-star breakfast.

‍

Fritura: Think crispy meatballs, empanadas, and fried surprises that are basically edible joy.

Pan bati: A cornmeal pancake that’s perfect for scooping up everything on your plate.

Cocada: Sweet coconut squares that taste like sunshine got baked into dessert.

It’s not fancy. It’s not complicated. But it’s delicious in a way that stays with you.

‍‍

Pro Tips from Travelers Who’ve Been There

• Install your Aruba eSIM before you land. The island wind is not your friend when you're fumbling with SIM cards.
  
  
• Book the Conchi tour early. It fills up fast, and late afternoons can get crowded.
  
  
• Philips Animal Garden opens at 9 am. That’s when the animals are most active and the light’s perfect for photos.
  
  
• Street food > resort food. Trust the guy in the truck selling pastechi.
  
  

‍

And finally, whether it’s your first or fifth visit, Noord will always have something new to offer, just promise you won’t tell too many people.