A simple introduction to Aruba's nature and landscapes.

Experience Arubathe local way.

Private, shore-based snorkeling, hiking and birdwatching adventures led by an experienced, EFR-certified local guide. No crowds, no boats, no rushing. Just Aruba, at your pace.

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Arashi white dunes
Bon Bini
Experience Aruba the Local Way

Born local. Raised by nature.

The Local Way Tours Aruba was founded by Marcus Joseph de Cuba, born and raised on this island in 1991. Growing up, Aruba was his playground and nature was his greatest teacher.

Today he shares the island the way he grew up experiencing it. Private, shore-based adventures with personal attention, no crowds, and an authentic connection to Aruba's marine life, landscapes, history and culture.

You can also mix and match any of our tours with each other. Just ask for your tailor-made package.

  • Locally born and locally owned
  • EFR-certified local guide
  • Shore-based snorkeling, no boats
  • 100% private experiences
Read our story

We don't operate by boat.

Our shore-based experiences avoid boat noise and let small groups explore selected coastal locations at a relaxed pace. Quieter water, calmer guests, better wildlife.

Experiences for Every Explorer

Choose your adventure.

Snorkeling, hiking, birdwatching, combination tours and a private all-inclusive retreat. Every one led by a local, every one just for your group. Mix and match any tours you like and ask for your tailor-made package. Solo travelers welcome at a higher rate, special prices for big groups, and all children must be accompanied by an adult.

Guest Favorites

Popular experiences.

View all 18+ experiences
The Famous Turtle SnorkelingFrom $95

The Famous Turtle

Snorkeling Tour
Tres Trapi
1 hr 15 min
8:30 AM · 10:30 AM · 12:30 PM · 2:30 PM

Enter the crystal-clear waters of Tres Trapi and explore a natural habitat visited by sea turtles, tropical fish and other marine life. Your private guide will provide a safety briefing and help you discover the area at a comfortable pace. This shore-based experience combines wildlife, marine education and personalized attention. Turtle sightings are common but cannot be guaranteed.

Aruba Snorkel Safari SnorkelingFrom $150

Aruba Snorkel Safari

Multi-Location Snorkel Combo
Tres Trapi, Mangel Halto, Baby Beach and more
3 to 8 hrs (by number of locations)
8:30 AM

Discover Aruba's underwater beauty The Local Way on a private, multi-location, shore-based snorkeling adventure. Choose two, three or all available snorkeling locations, including favorites such as Tres Trapi, Mangel Halto and Baby Beach. Swim through crystal-clear turquoise waters and explore coral formations, seagrass, mangroves and tropical marine life with an experienced local guide. Before entering the water you will receive a safety briefing, and your guide will help you explore each location at a comfortable pace while sharing local knowledge about Aruba's marine life and coastal ecosystem. Perfect for couples, families, small groups and nature lovers looking for a relaxed and personalized snorkeling experience.

White Dunes to Lighthouse HikingFrom $95

White Dunes to Lighthouse

Journey
Arashi
2 to 3 hrs
7:30 AM · 4:00 to 4:15 PM

Walk across Aruba's striking white dunes toward the iconic California Lighthouse while enjoying wide coastal views and fresh island air. Learn about the area's history, plants and birdlife from your private local guide. Choose a morning experience with lighthouse admission or a seasonal afternoon hike featuring sunset views. This journey combines nature, history and some of Aruba's most memorable scenery.

The Ultimate Local WayThe Ultimate Local WayThe Ultimate Local Way
Mix & MatchFrom $185

The Ultimate Local Way

Hike, Snorkel and Lunch
Rooi Taki 2 (Franse Pas)
4 to 5 hrs
7:00 AM · 2:00 PM

Experience Aruba's landscape, underwater world and local flavors in one unforgettable private day. Begin with a guided hike through the historic surroundings of Spaans Lagoen, followed by snorkeling among the mangroves and coral reefs of Mangel Halto. Finish the adventure with an authentic Aruban meal and refreshing drinks in a relaxed setting. This exclusive experience is perfect for families, couples and nature lovers.

Exclusive Conchi and Gold History TrailExclusive Conchi and Gold History TrailExclusive Conchi and Gold History Trail
Mix & MatchFrom $160

Exclusive Conchi and Gold History Trail

Natural Pool Snorkel and Hike
Arikok National Park
3 to 4 hrs
5:45 to 6:00 AM · 3:00 to 3:15 PM

Journey through the dramatic landscape of Arikok National Park to Conchi, Aruba's famous Natural Pool. Hike across rugged terrain and coastline while discovering hidden scenery, gold-mining history and stories about the island's natural environment. When conditions permit, enjoy a refreshing swim in the protected natural pool before hiking back. This private experience is available at sunrise or late afternoon.

The Signature Private Local Way Retreat Signature RetreatFrom $1,400

The Signature Private Local Way Retreat

All-Inclusive Private Beach House Experience (VIP)
Secret secluded beach
8 hrs (9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, flexible)
9:00 AM

Discover Aruba the way locals do during a full-day experience filled with history, adventure, nature, culture, Aruban flavors, fun and relaxation. Enjoy authentic island hospitality at a cozy, secluded beach house hosted by a local family on the other side of the island. Your personalized experience includes guided snorkeling, a scenic nature hike, local history, wildlife-viewing opportunities and time to swim, play games or simply relax. A private chef prepares a local-style barbecue with fruit and snacks, accompanied by an included open bar for guests aged 18 and over. This flexible, full-day, all-inclusive retreat is designed exclusively for couples, families and private groups seeking comfort, privacy and an authentic local experience.

VIP · All-Inclusive

The Signature PrivateLocal Way Retreat.

A private eco-luxury beach day hosted by a local family at a secluded beach on the other side of the island. Guided snorkeling, a scenic hike, a private chef, local-style BBQ and an open bar. Your pace, your people, nobody else.

From$1,400for up to 6 guests

What's included

  • Private beach house on a secluded beach
  • Private chef and local-style BBQ
  • Open bar for guests 18+
  • Guided snorkeling and scenic hike
  • Cave with Arawak paintings
  • Sea turtle, wildlife and birdwatching opportunities
  • Photo and video package (underwater and land)
  • Fully personalized pace, no crowds
Why Choose The Local Way

What you won't get on the big-bus tour.

100% Private Experiences

Only your family or group. No crowds, no rushing, no shared tour groups.

Experienced Local Guide

Knowledge, stories and personal attention from an experienced, EFR-certified local guide.

Authentic Aruba

Nature, history, wildlife and local culture beyond the resorts and the usual tourist routes.

Small Groups, Personal Attention

We adapt the pace and experience to your interests, comfort and ability.

Safety Comes First

Every experience includes a safety briefing, appropriate safety equipment and guidance throughout.

Shore-Based Snorkeling

We enter the water from shore instead of a boat. Quieter, calmer, more relaxed.

Our Commitments

Safe, private, responsible.

We Do Not Operate by Boat

Our shore-based experiences avoid boat noise and allow small groups to explore selected coastal locations at a relaxed pace.

Our Safety Commitment

Every experience begins with a briefing and is led by an experienced, EFR-certified local guide. We provide appropriate safety equipment and monitor weather, sea and trail conditions. Routes, locations or start times may be adjusted for guest safety. Guests must follow the guide's instructions and disclose relevant health conditions, injuries, allergies or mobility limitations before participating.

Our Sustainability Commitment

Small, private groups to reduce environmental impact. Shore-based snorkeling. We respect wildlife and never encourage touching or chasing animals. We ask guests not to touch coral or remove natural and cultural objects. We follow designated trails and responsible waste practices, and support optional beach cleanups.

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Book Your Private Experience

Ready to see the real Aruba?

Contact us by WhatsApp or email to confirm availability. We reply within a few hours with answers to any questions.

WhatsApp / Telephone
+297 732 2777
Business address
Rooi Taki 2, Aruba

Book online or send a message

Booking takes two minutes. Not sure which experience fits? Write to us and we will help you choose.