Aruba Outdoor Adventures image

Aruba Outdoor Adventures

Tourist attraction Tour agency Sightseeing tour agency Boat tour agency Canoe and kayak tour agency

One of the Top rateds in Pos Chikito


Address

San Barbola, Oranjestad, Aruba

Website

www.arubaoutdooradventures.com

Contact

+297 749 6646

Rating on Google Maps

4.90 (84 reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Wednesday: 8 am to 6 pm
  • Thursday: 8 am to 6 pm
  • Friday: 8 am to 6 pm
  • Saturday: 8 am to 6 pm
  • Sunday: 8 am to 6 pm
  • Monday: 8 am to 6 pm
  • Tuesday: 8 am to 6 pm

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: Aruba (41) trip (38) snorkeling (38) tour (33) great (30) experience (24) time (22) kayaks (19) photos (17) amazing (16)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Dayton D. 3 years ago on Google
    My wife and I first ventured to Aruba for our honeymoon in 2020 and it was a life changing trip for us. When we returned in 2021 we were curious to see how everything would hold up. We had another wonderful time, but by far the experience for me that raised the bar even further was snorkeling with RJ. We were so lucky to have run across his company through his girlfriend! We booked a snorkeling tour with Aruba Outdoor Adventures out of Mangel Halto. This place is absolutely beautiful and there is a good chance it would have taken many trips before we ended up out here! RJ was very friendly, incredibly informative, and took great care of us! My wife is not a great swimmer but fell in love with snorkeling last year with a life vest on. RJ was able to coach her up and help her get comfortable snorkeling without using a jacket! Tons of pictures, videos, showed us a bunch of stuff and educated us on a lot of stuff he was showing us so we knew where to be looking/what to be looking for. After the tour we were able to get out, he had refreshment and a snack to help offset the salt. As a small business owner the time he puts into your experience BEFORE and AFTER the tour says volumes. That is a person who cares about what he does and how he does it, this is a huge value when I look for businesses to do business with and when we return to Aruba, Aruba Outdoor Adventures is the first on my list of places I will be scheduling with every time we go. I didn't feel like I was taken on a tour, I felt like a friend was showing me around, that's remarkable. Since returning I have followed the page and became a top fan on FB. That wasn't hard at all, I love seeing all the photos and videos of the tours. And to add to that, RJ is a wonderful person. Recently some swimmers were in distress and RJ swam out to assist them, only to find out there was a third who was lost. He was able to save that swimmer as well. I don't put this up here for anything other than the fact that actions speak louder than words in this world, RJ's actions are that of someone who is a caring person above and beyond themselves and I cannot express how respectable that is. I am honored to have met RJ, became friends, and look so gratefully forward to return in 2022! Thank you for such an awesome experience!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Derek G. 4 years ago on Google
    Rj is a friendly and amazing guide! After some brief instruction on snorkeling and the pedal kayaks, we hit the water and had a trip we will always remember. The snorkeling was great and we saw so many fish and coral formations. The brief stop for a break included some locally made cheeses, crackers and fruit drinks. Rj ensured we were having fun the whole time!! We paid for the pictures and at first I was sad I didn’t use my GoPro, but after receiving over 300 high resolution photos and videos taken by him for just $40, I realized it was well worth the price as he let us be in the moment and got so many great shots!! A MUST DO when in Aruba!!!! Pick up and drop off at your resort is included in the price too!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Cara C. 2 years ago on Google
    I highly recommend Aruba Outdoor Adventures! RJ is the best. I was scared to snorkel without a life vest but he made it easy. Great experience. Lots of photos too!! You can tell by the way he talks that he truly cares about safety, the island, and the wildlife. We will be returning soon. Look no further for Aruban water adventures!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Florian R. 1 year ago on Google
    We booked the Spanish lagoon Kayak trip and it was a blast. The Kayaks are super comfy and high end. RJ, our guide did an awesome job and explained everything in detail with no rush. We saw a lot of animals like fish, jellyfish, iguana and crabs. I would definitively do the same tour again!!! The communication was super relaxed and hassle free. Top notch!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Stephanie S. 3 years ago on Google
    This is a HIGHLIGHT of Aruba! RJ is a fantastic host - sharing insights about the island, and taking us to the most amazing snorkeling spot! His equipment is the highest quality and he ensures that you see the most wonderful underwater sights! The pedal kayaks are 100% easier than paddling. I would recommend this tour to anyone! (And a bonus - he also took and shared fantastic photos with us of our tour!)
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 CTM S. 1 year ago on Google
    Great time.Incredible adventure. Outstanding photos. The kayaking with pedals was easier on my spouse's back than normal kayak paddling. RJ was like aqua man! He's a superior swimmer and is very attuned to the constant safety of each person. We've snorkeled off boats in the Florida Keys, Bermuda, Palm Beach FL area. It was a superlative experience and a great workout. Thanks RJ for this wonderful memory of Aruba!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sarah H. 3 years ago on Google
    I had an amazing time with RJ, exploring Barcadera Reef. He passion for the environment, fish, ecosystem and Aruban culture was infectious. For an intimate paddle kayaking and snorkeling experience, I can't recommend Aruba Outdoor Adventures highly enough!!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 David F. 1 year ago on Google
    We did RJ's Adventure and could not have asked for a better first-time snorkeling experience. RJ was so friendly and the pictures he took were wonderful. We saw lobsters, squid, all sorts of fish and lots of coral. Well worth it.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Paul H. 1 year ago on Google
    Highly recommended! We did a combination kayak and snorkel tour. RJ was well prepared and very informative! First time using pedal kayaks and they were great. Saw a variety of fish and coral. RJ took many photos including quite a few from the floor of the sea. Purchased the photo package and it was well worth it!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Viv 9 months ago on Google
    Wonderful Snorkel Adventure! The tour was the highlight of my Aruba visit; I am glad I booked it :) RJ is a wonderful guide. He grew up in the area and is passionate about showing you around. The pedal kayaks are actually fun and made it easier to get around. RJ took his time to teach beginners snorkelers the skills that were needed for the tour. RJ cares about protecting the area. That is why he keeps the group size small. Aruba Outdoor Adventures is also a small local business and I love to support local. The photo package is well worth it. The package included pictures and videos of the adventure. Thank you RJ. I will come back for another tour!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jennifer P. 6 years ago on Google
    RJ is both a fun and knowledgeable tour guide. This was by far the best time we had while vacationing all 3 times in Aruba. The pedal kayaks make for a very serene time on the ocean. The fish and reef were amazing. RJ stays with any in your group who are inexperienced until they are comfortable in the water. He takes loads of photos (>300) so none of your time is wasted taking pictures. Later in the week, we tried snorkeling on our own...not the same; RJ takes you to the best places with the most fish. You will not be disappointed when you book this tour!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Leslie B. 2 years ago on Google
    Perfect kayak/snorkeling experience. RJ knew the area, gave great instructions to my husband to help him have a much more pleasant and safe snorkel trip. Learned a lot as well even though I thought I knew how to snorkel. Felt safe the entire trip. Loved the kayaks, so much easier to use your feet than paddle. I will look for this feature in all future kayak trips. Thanks RJ for super fun trip!

  • 5/5 Dawn P. 6 years ago on Google
    Had the most amazing time! I recommend anyone to go here since you see a whole new side of Aruba you can't get anywhere else. RJ is an awesome guide and makes the experience so much fun. Looking to book another one soon! Thank you RJ!!!!!

  • 5/5 lionel f. 6 years ago on Google
    Awesome experience!! Don't miss this opportunity to explore mangel halto beach and reef!👍🏻🤘

  • 5/5 Jason W. 2 years ago on Google
    Always a great time with RJ ! Fun, informative and always an adventure. We’ve been on 4 trips with him and will continue to do more. You should to! Look how happy we are, YOU should be this happy !

  • 5/5 Rabeca M. 7 months ago on Google
    RJ was awesome. My husband and I booked an excursion with him for our honeymoon, and it was the best thing we could have spent money on. I booked this because it was advertised as small groups only - it ended up being just the three of us! RJ was a real awesome guy and we were comfortable with him from the very start. Definitely buy the photo package - it is incredibly worth it. He sent us a link with over 500 photos at the end of the trip. It was so nice to just be in the moment. The peddle kayaks were great and easy to navigate with - and the snorkeling equipment was top-notch. If you are scrolling snorkeling packages, just book this one.

  • 5/5 Eric de P. 2 years ago on Google
    Absolutely first rate trip, maybe the single best experience we had during our week in Aruba. RJ is knowledgeable, fun, and clearly has an excellent sense about how to put together a great adventure. He was especially great with my 12-year-old son. Highly recommended.

  • 5/5 Kathleen 2 years ago on Google
    Four of us had the best snorkeling trip with RJ. This is someone local who grew up where he takes you snorkeling. Small groups, off the beaten path. A little rugged but I'm 68 and I had no problem. We snorkeled for an hour near the beginning of the Spanish lagoon. The pedal kayaks are fun and faster. We took the beginner tour and I would definitely go with RJ again when I go back and do a different tour. He's fun, knowledgeable and I felt very safe. He took over 300 pictures and 7 short movies and they are gorgeous shots. Worth purchasing them. One of the highlights of our trip.

  • 5/5 Elise L. 2 years ago on Google
    Love supporting local businesses and this is a adventure you don’t want to miss! RJ, our educational instructor was fabulous! Friendly, educational, personable and safe. He captured incredible moments, eyes like a hawk and leaves no person behind! RJ makes sure you are enjoying your time while he shows us what it’s like to live in his backyard! This trip will not disappoint! Thanks RJ, will see you next trip!

  • 5/5 James T. 3 years ago on Google
    We did the Commandeurs Baai trip and it was awesome. It's lighter on the snorkeling which was perfect for our son that was less sure about it. RJ was a tremendous guide. Having the peddle kayaks was a game changer!

  • 5/5 R.J. S. 6 months ago on Google
    Amazing kayak trip with RJ. Can not recommend highly enough. Local knowledge and small groups make these trips so worth it. Can't wait to go back and do a snorkeling trip with them.

  • 5/5 Mustafa D. 2 years ago on Google
    Doing the kayaking and snorkeling with RJ is a must if you're visiting Aruba. He brings you to an amazing spot. The kayaks are very safe and easy to pedal. RJ is extremely knowledgeable and chill.. And he takes amazing pics also!

  • 4/5 Jack of S. 6 months ago on Google
    Had a very good time snorkeling. I paid about $50 for the photo package and I never received them. Emailed RJ several times and no response. It's been over a month now. UPDATE: Honest mistake by RJ. Got my photos finally. RJ's Aruba Outdoor Adventures is a small local business. He cares about Aruba and its reefs!

  • 5/5 Vinni T. 1 year ago on Google
    RJ is an amazing guide! I was a little nervous and he really makes you feel comfortable. Very knowledgeable and a great personality! Book with him directly!

  • 5/5 Paul James K. 7 months ago on Google
    This was an excellent excursion that all of our group enjoyed. RJ was a knowledgeable and easy going guide and fun to hang out with for the morning. He took some seriously great pictures with that little water proof camera and provided excellent equipment (kayaks, snorkels, drinks/snacks) for the trip. Well worth the cost to see some beautiful reefs, marine life, and other parts of the island.

  • 5/5 Sue-ellen K. 6 months ago on Google
    Went out with my 22 yo daughter and another fam of 4. RJ was amazing! Saw the most fish and even an eel w RJs help! Kayak’s top notch! Very informative trip - a native of island so he has a lot of local info re the island and it’s people! Give it a few hours - you won’t be disappointed! One of the best times on our trip - but bring a towel! Can get chilly when done snorkeling! And if you have an underwater case for your phone or even an underwater camera - better! Enjoy!

  • 5/5 Caity B. 8 months ago on Google
    Amazing 10/10. The kayaking was great and the snorkeling was breathtaking. Our hotel had messed up the meeting location and so we were 30 min late and he had almost made it home when all that had been figured out. He came back and gave us an amazing time. He was knowledgeable and a great teacher

  • 5/5 Heather N. 1 year ago on Google
    RJ is the BEST!!!! This was our second trip with him and we already can't wait for the next! RJ is friendly, super helpful with gear, and so knowledgeable! We really enjoyed kayaking and chatting with RJ and once we got to the snorkel site, he made sure we were all set to snorkel...no foggy lenses here! He gets right in with you and can help identify fish and he takes the most amazing pictures. Seriously, buy the pictures, they are worth every penny! Thanks again RJ!!

  • 5/5 Meghan N. 7 months ago on Google
    We've done two trips with RJ now (RJ's Adventure two years ago and Mangel Halto last week) and he continues to be among the top of the highlights of our Aruban vacations. RJ is incredibly passionate and knowledgeable about his business, his home, and protecting Aruba's natural resources. I always learn so much from him and have a blast doing so. Every Aruba trip MUST include a kayak and snorkel with Aruba Outdoor Adventures!

  • 5/5 Deborah M. 3 years ago on Google
    Don’t look any further book with RJ . My family voted this one of our favorite snorkeling experiences . RJ was the best!

  • 5/5 Grant R. 4 years ago on Google
    This is a must see if you have a morning in Aruba. The kayaking was amazing and the snorkeling was an experience I will never forget. It’s incredibly personal with the Barracuda Reef tour and very interesting getting do experience something so unique. This is a truly amazing experience and the highlight of my trip!

  • 5/5 Alissa G. 4 years ago on Google
    Just do yourself a favor, and do this excursion. You will see a side of Aruba that is beyond breathtaking. I have done the other snorkeling excursions on the island. There is NO comparison. Apples and oranges. RJ, thank you for sharing all the great local info and guiding us through the reef and drop off. Stunning!!!! Best part of our trip this year!!

  • 5/5 C.A. M. 4 years ago on Google
    RJ is the absolute best! Do this snorkel and kayak tour if you get a chance. It's something really special and amazing to experience.

  • 5/5 Greg F. 4 years ago on Google
    Very nice kayak and snorkeling tour. RJ is native to Aruba and gave us a great tour with local history of the area. Very relaxing experience and a very friendly team. Highly recommend!

  • 5/5 Tiffany H. 4 years ago on Google
    Beautiful experience, super fun and unique. Highly recommended for anyone who loves the ocean! Just make sure you have a good pair of water shoes, lots of rocks and trust me you want to see EVERYTHING!!!!!

  • 5/5 Linda M. 4 years ago on Google
    I had only snorkeled once before several years ago. I was a little nervous, but RJ walked me through everything and even let me hold onto his shoulder until I felt comfortable to let go. The pedal kayak was so easy and fun. We saw so many schools of fish , enamines, many types of coral. RJ also gave a lot of history of the Spanish Lagoon as well as the mangroves. You won't be disappointed

  • 5/5 Mikhail D. 6 years ago on Google
    On our Christmas vacation we took this nice kayaking and snorkeling tour with RJ. This tour is expensive but it worth of money. RJ doing a great job guiding our tour; explains everything, tells stories, shows things which you could not find if do not know about them. For about 4 hour trip he made ~400 photos. It costs extra $40, but it worth! His under-water photos are especially good. This was the most unusual tour for us on Aruba. Thank you RJ!

  • 5/5 Vanina U. 4 years ago on Google
    Beautiful experience, guided on local sweet spots. Can't wait for the pictures🤟

  • 5/5 siminindia 3 years ago on Google
    This is a very nice Arubian experience and a highlight! In addition RJ is a very nice and professional guide. He knows all the great spots and shares insights about the island. I had a great time with him and enjoyed our kayak trip a lot! I recommend his tours to anyone! Don’t think twice!

  • 5/5 Jenna D. 3 years ago on Google
    RJ was great! Super knowledgeable about Aruba and its plants, trees, fish, etc. The areas we went snorkeling were awesome, we saw so many fish and coral. RJ came prepared for our trip with water and gatorade. I recommend you get the photo package, he takes photos of you and what we see above and below water during the trip. They’re a great keepsake. When we come back to Aruba we will definitely sign up for another adventure with him! P.s. please make sure you tip! The cost of the experience itself is a good deal, but people need to remember to bring cash to tip.

  • 5/5 Jack A. 3 years ago on Google
    RJ is phenomenal when it comes to guided tours around the beautiful island of Aruba and locating the best snorkeling spots! I highly recommend any excursion with him. You will not be disappointed!

  • 5/5 Emmia N. 3 years ago on Google
    This was an awesome and unique kayak and snorkel trip. This isn't like the others on the island because he takes small groups to parts of the island most tourists won't ever go to or see. You'll also snorkel in areas you wouldn't expect. The foot pedal kayaks were great for navigating against the ocean waves, It made it way easier. RJ is very knowledgeable and just a great all around guy as well. We highly recommend this trip.

  • 5/5 Liz G. 5 years ago on Google
    This tour was beyond our expectations. RJ is a warm, interesting, knowledgeable guide. This is his company and so he gives it his all. He makes you feel special before you even get in the water. His boats are top of the line paddle boats that are safe and easy to use. He gives you a tour that is unique and a snorkeling experience that is wonderful. You are in a small intimate group and you learn so much about the “One Happy Island.” Highly recommend!!!

  • 5/5 Mike C. 4 years ago on Google
    My wife and I booked the morning RJ's Reef Adventure package and had an amazing experience. RJ is incredibly knowledgable of Aruba, the island's nature and wildlife. It was just us on the tour and he was great in explaining how to operate the pedal kayaks and snorkeling gear. The reef that we visited was stunning and unlike any other snorkeling we have done before. Not only were we the only people on this tour, but we were also the only people out on this reef. It's just you and the fish - and there are many that you see out there! RJ is also an excellent swimmer and photographer and captured many great photos of our trip! If you plan to snorkel in Aruba, I highly recommend going with RJ!

  • 5/5 Laura L. 4 years ago on Google
    My husband and I enjoyed an excellent morning kayak and snorkel tour with RJ! The pedal kayaks are easy and fun to use, and we saw tons of colorful fish on our snorkel. RJ is a wonderful guide and a wizard with the snorkel - he was able to figure out how to keep my husband's mask from leaking (he has a mustache), which we thought was an impossible problem. This was our favorite part of our Aruba vacation, thanks RJ for a great day!

  • 5/5 Eileen M. 4 years ago on Google
    SPECTACULAR Kayak and Snorkel Trip with RJ I have not been able to stop talking about my experience with RJ and Aruba Outdoor Adventures! This was the first time I had been snorkeling and RJ provided amazing instruction and education. He thoroughly explained how to safely use the pedal kayaks and snorkeling equipment. Once in the water I realized how easy the pedal kayaks are to use, especially since it was crazy windy that day! Putting my face in the water for the first time was mind blowing to see another world down there. I did not want to stop swimming around to be able to see the gorgeous fish and coral. RJ takes you off the beaten path, away from all the tourists, teaches you all you need to know about Aruba, which makes the trip unique. The SNACKS were so delicious I had to find some of the same to bring home. You MUST purchase the photos that RJ takes, AMAZING! This should definitely be on top of your activity list! Side note, I had gone on this excursion alone and felt completely safe with Ghislane providing transportation back and forth from my hotel and RJ as my guide. Don’t forget your closed toe water shoes! This was seriously my favorite part of Aruba!

  • 5/5 MaryEllen C. 4 years ago on Google
    The afternoon Mike’s Reef tour with RJ was the highlight of our trip to Aruba. We loved kayaking with the foot pedals and snorkeling in the perfect clear blue waters. RJ brought so much passion and devotion to this tour showing us things most people who visit the island would not normally get to see. We had such a wonderful experience and will definitely call him next time we’re in Aruba.

  • 5/5 Blake M. 4 years ago on Google
    Do yourself a favor while you are in Aruba and book a trip with RJ at Aruba Outdoor Adventures! My wife and I had a blast. With all the excursions we did on our trip, the kayaking and snorkeling with RJ to Mike’s Reef topped them all! Thanks RJ for a great time and keep doing what you love!

  • 5/5 Nate B. 4 years ago on Google
    Take the Mike's Reef tour with RJ; you won't regret it. If you're new to snorkeling (or kayaking), he's a knowledgeable and patient teacher, and better yet, he knows the local reef. The photos included here are from our tour.

  • 5/5 Marijn van L. 4 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Super trip with RJ! Due to cancellation we were with 2 so all attention. The Hobie kayaks are very nice because the wind is so strong on Aruba and can be done by anyone with average condition. We did Mike's reef and is highly recommended. There was no soul except us and the fish, seen many beautiful! RJ knows how to spot all kinds of animals that we would have swum by. We didn't really want photos but they were so beautiful that we did buy them. Are you coming to Aruba? DO this trip! (Original) Super trip met RJ! Door afzegging waren we met 2 dus alle aandacht. De Hobie kayaks zijn erg fijn omdat de wind zo sterk is op Aruba en is dit voor iedereen met gemiddelde conditie goed te doen. Wij deden Mike's reef en is een echte aanrader. Er was geen ziel behalve wij en de vissen, veel prachtigs gezien! RJ weet allerlei beesten te spotten waar wij zó langs zouden zijn gezwommen. We wilden eigenlijk geen foto's maar ze waren zo mooi dat we ze wel gekocht hebben. Kom je naar Aruba? Deze trip DOEN!

  • 5/5 Juli m. 5 years ago on Google
    Epic Snorkel Kayak Trip! We loved every minute of our tour with RJ. The pedal kayaks were fun, the commentary about the area was interesting and the snorkeling was AMAZING! We will come back and hopefully bring our friends & family back with us. This will be the highlight of our vacation. Can’t wait to see the photos in a week!

  • 5/5 chris g. 5 years ago on Google
    We had a great time while kayaking/snorkeling with RJ, couldn't have asked for better conditions either. The pictures he took while on the trip turned out good too.

  • 5/5 Anthony U. 5 years ago on Google
    We didn’t see one other tourist while on this excursion. It was beyond one of the best decisions we made. RJ is very knowledgeable and was an exceptional guide. We saw and learned so much about Aruba and what it’s oceans have to offer! We will be back!

  • 5/5 Lou R. 5 years ago on Google
    Great way to see the Island in it's more natural state. RJ is a great guide and loves what he does. Very relaxing and alot of sun. Kayaking, swimming and snokeling what could be better. Bring a hat.


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