Yes, you can absolutely explore the highlights of Aruba in a single day because the island is quite compact, measuring only about 21 miles (33 km) long and 6 miles (9 km) wide. If you have a car or join a guided tour, you can drive from one end of the island to the other in roughly 45 minutes. A typical one-day itinerary usually starts in the capital, Oranjestad, where you can see the colorful Dutch colonial architecture and historical sites like Fort Zoutman. From there, many visitors head to the rugged Arikok National Park to see unique desert landscapes and limestone caves. You can also fit in stops at the Natural Bridge (or its remains), the Aruba Aloe Factory, and famous beaches like Eagle Beach or Palm Beach for a quick swim. While a single day allows you to see the major landmarks and get a great overview of the island's diverse geography—ranging from rocky northern shores to white sandy southern beaches—you would likely need a full week if you wanted to spend significant time relaxing at each spot or participating in multiple water sports.