Best things to do in Noord

Stop by California Lighthouse and Sasariwichi Dunes for a slice of local history and arguably the finest views in this island nation. Named after an ill-fated ship that wrecked here in 1891, the stone lighthouse looks over the coastline and treats visitors to unobstructed views of sandy beaches and nearby golf courses. The surrounding area offers opportunities for dune surfing, while a nearby restaurant ensures no one goes hungry or thirsty. If you time your visit with early evening, you'll see a giant orange sun gently dropping into the sea.

Unreachable by car, Natural Pool represents a secluded swimming hole protected from the ocean swells surrounded by rugged volcanic rock. You'll have to walk, ride on horseback or use an all-terrain vehicle to reach the pool. Be sure to bring your own snacks and plenty of water, water shoes are a "must" to navigate the rocks. The reasonably strenuous hike shouldn't take longer than an hour. Be aware that it can be very dangerous to swim here in inclement weather.

Have a rest and a swim at Boca Cataavlina, a secluded bay with a white sand beach. Popular with local families and tourists alike, the beach enjoys a reputation for pleasant swimming and snorkeling. With a combination of clear and calm waters, you'll feel like you're in a swimming pool. A great variety of colorful fish live just offshore, including yellow boxfish, cowfish, triggers, and angelfish. Bring water shoes if planning to snorkel, as the bottom gets quite rocky in places.

Rest on soft white sand, or take a cooling dip in clear waters at Eagle Beach. The country's widest beach offers plenty of room for all kinds of activities; sunbathers, swimmers, and water sports enthusiasts occupy the beach in harmony. Watch for the four different breeds of turtles who use the beach as a hatching ground. You can grab a drink from one of the many beachside bars to fully appreciate this tropical oasis.

Animal lovers especially will appreciate a visit to Philip's Animal Garden. The non-profit zoo takes care of abandoned or injured exotic animals and operates entirely off of money generated from tours and donations; all funds are used for the animals' needs. Take a tour of the zoo and rehabilitation center for an educational experience, where you'll meet animals from all over the world. Interact with the residents, touch or feed them, and meet the zoo's cows, camels, monkeys, deer, and other friendly creatures.

Try your hand at a range of water sports at Palm Beach. The white sand beach offers a host of activities for active visitors, including kayaking, paddle boarding, jet skiing, and tubing. If you're looking for something a bit more calm, take a stroll along the boardwalk, or simply stretch out on the beach's soft sands. You can take catamaran or boat tours for a chance to admire the exotic marine animals that live just offshore.

Baby Beach provides a blissful setting suitable for kids, as well as inexperienced snorkelers and swimmers. Within a calm lagoon, the shallow waters and gentle waves allow you to wade out far from shore and still touch the bottom. A number of snack kiosks and rustic huts complete the authentic Aruban setting. This makes a good alternative to the busier beaches near popular hotels, and several outfits offer snorkeling gear and beach beds for rent.