Dense ZnO nanorod arrays were obtained directly on Al substrate for the first time using catalyst-free chemical vapor deposition. The influence of temperature on the surface topography of ZnO nanostructures was analyzed. Then the ZnO nanorod arrays surface was coated with SiO2 films via pulsed laser deposition. After modifying with stearic acid, the Al/ZnO/SiO2 nanorod arrays showed superhydrophobic properties with a water contact angle of up to 157.9°. Notably, these Al/ZnO/SiO2 nanorod arrays exhibited UV resistance, and the water contact angle remained almost constant under UV light exposure for a long time. The electrochemical measurements showed that ZnO/SiO2 nanorod arrays had an excellent protective effect on metal Al. These results provided a basis for a feasible method for the corrosion protection of metals.