What to Do Near the Cruise Port in Aruba

AvatarByDale Richard Cruise/Cruising

Aruba: The Perfect Cruise Destination

Aruba is a Caribbean island known for its white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. But what many people don’t know is that Aruba is also home to a number of interesting attractions and activities that are perfect for cruise passengers.

In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best things to do near the cruise port in Aruba. We’ll cover everything from swimming and snorkeling to shopping and dining. So whether you’re looking for a relaxing day on the beach or an exciting adventure, you’re sure to find something to do in Aruba.

So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Aruba today!

What Is Near The Cruise Port In Aruba? Name Distance (mi)
Beaches Eagle Beach 1.5
Beaches Palm Beach 2.5
Beaches Baby Beach 3.5
Sights Arashi Lighthouse 1.5
Sights Oranjestad 2.0
Sights Casino Royale 2.5
Restaurants Flying Fishbone 1.0
Restaurants The Landing 1.5
Restaurants Sushi Bar & Grill 2.0

Attractions

The Queen Wilhelmina Park

The Queen Wilhelmina Park is a beautiful park located in the center of Oranjestad, Aruba. The park is named after Queen Wilhelmina of the Netherlands, who visited Aruba in 1939. The park is home to a variety of plants and animals, including a large aviary, a butterfly garden, and a children’s playground. The park is also a popular spot for picnics and other gatherings.

The Aruba Zoo

The Aruba Zoo is a small zoo located in the northwest of Aruba. The zoo is home to a variety of animals, including monkeys, birds, reptiles, and fish. The zoo also has a petting zoo where visitors can interact with some of the animals. The Aruba Zoo is a great place to learn about the wildlife of Aruba and to see some of the island’s native animals.

The Butterfly Farm

The Butterfly Farm is a unique attraction located in the center of Oranjestad. The farm is home to a variety of butterflies, including some of the rarest species in the world. The farm also has a beautiful garden where visitors can see the butterflies in their natural habitat. The Butterfly Farm is a great place to learn about butterflies and to see these amazing creatures up close.

The Maritime Museum

The Maritime Museum is located in the historic Fort Zoutman in Oranjestad. The museum tells the story of Aruba’s maritime history, from the days of the Dutch West India Company to the present day. The museum has a variety of exhibits, including models of ships, paintings, and artifacts. The Maritime Museum is a great place to learn about Aruba’s rich maritime history.

Restaurants

The Flying Fishbone

The Flying Fishbone is a popular restaurant located on the beach in Palm Beach. The restaurant offers a variety of seafood dishes, as well as steaks and other meat dishes. The Flying Fishbone is known for its fresh seafood and its beautiful views of the ocean.

The Waterfront

The Waterfront is a casual restaurant located in the heart of Oranjestad. The restaurant offers a variety of international dishes, as well as a variety of cocktails and wines. The Waterfront is a great place to relax and enjoy a meal with friends or family.

The Bucuti Beach Resort

The Bucuti Beach Resort is a five-star resort located on the beach in Noord. The resort offers a variety of dining options, including a fine-dining restaurant, a beachfront restaurant, and a poolside restaurant. The Bucuti Beach Resort is a great place to enjoy a luxurious meal in a beautiful setting.

The Divi Aruba Phoenix Resort

The Divi Aruba Phoenix Resort is a four-star resort located on the beach in Oranjestad. The resort offers a variety of dining options, including a buffet restaurant, a steak house, and a seafood restaurant. The Divi Aruba Phoenix Resort is a great place to enjoy a delicious meal in a comfortable setting.

Shopping

There are many great shopping options near the cruise port in Aruba. Here are a few of the best:

  • The Royal Plaza Mall is the largest mall in Aruba and is located just a short walk from the cruise port. It has over 100 stores, including international brands like Gucci, Prada, and Louis Vuitton. There is also a food court and a movie theater.
  • The Paseo Herencia Mall is a smaller mall that is located closer to the cruise port. It has a more local flavor, with stores that sell souvenirs, clothing, and jewelry. There is also a food court and a cinema.
  • The Palm Beach Market is a street market that is located right next to the cruise port. It is a great place to find souvenirs, local food, and fresh produce.
  • The Seaport Marketplace is a shopping center that is located inside the cruise port. It has a variety of stores, including duty-free shops, restaurants, and bars.

Beaches

Aruba is known for its beautiful beaches, and there are many great options near the cruise port. Here are a few of the best:

  • Eagle Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Aruba. It is known for its white sand, crystal-clear water, and calm waves. It is also a great place for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.
  • Palm Beach is another popular beach in Aruba. It is known for its beautiful beaches, calm waves, and many amenities, including restaurants, bars, and shops. It is also a great place for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.
  • Arashi Beach is a more secluded beach that is located on the north coast of Aruba. It is known for its rugged coastline, crashing waves, and black sand. It is a great place for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing.
  • Baby Beach is a small, sheltered beach that is located on the south coast of Aruba. It is known for its calm waters, shallow sandbar, and crystal-clear water. It is a great place for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.

Other Attractions

In addition to shopping and beaches, there are also many other attractions near the cruise port in Aruba. Here are a few of the best:

  • The Renaissance Island is a private island that is located just a short boat ride from the cruise port. It has white-sand beaches, crystal-clear water, and a variety of activities, including swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
  • The Aruba Butterfly Farm is a great place to learn about butterflies. It has a variety of butterflies, including some that are endemic to Aruba.
  • The Alto Vista Chapel is a historic chapel that is located on a hill overlooking the island. It is a popular spot for sunset photos.
  • The Aruba Zoo is a small zoo that has a variety of animals, including monkeys, birds, and reptiles.

The cruise port in Aruba is located in a convenient location near many of the island’s best attractions. Whether you are looking for shopping, beaches, or other attractions, you are sure to find something to your liking near the cruise port.

What is near the cruise port in Aruba?

  • Oranjestad, the capital of Aruba, is located just a short walk from the cruise port. The city is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions, including the Queen Wilhelmina Park, the Aruba Museum, and the Fort Zoutman.
  • Palm Beach, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Aruba, is located just a few miles from the cruise port. The beach is known for its white sand, clear water, and beautiful views of the Caribbean Sea. There are also a number of hotels, restaurants, and shops located near Palm Beach.
  • Eagle Beach, another popular beach in Aruba, is located about a 10-minute drive from the cruise port. The beach is known for its calm waters and strong winds, making it a popular spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing. There are also a number of hotels, restaurants, and shops located near Eagle Beach.
  • Renaissance Island, a private island owned by the Renaissance Hotels and Resorts, is located about a 15-minute boat ride from the cruise port. The island is home to a variety of amenities, including a beach, a pool, a spa, and a variety of restaurants.

How do I get from the cruise port to Oranjestad?

There are a few different ways to get from the cruise port to Oranjestad. You can take a taxi, a bus, or a water taxi.

  • Taxi: The taxi fare from the cruise port to Oranjestad is about \$20. The ride takes about 10 minutes.
  • Bus: The bus fare from the cruise port to Oranjestad is about \$2. The ride takes about 30 minutes.
  • Water taxi: The water taxi fare from the cruise port to Oranjestad is about \$10. The ride takes about 15 minutes.

What are the best things to do in Oranjestad?

There are a variety of things to do in Oranjestad, including:

  • Visiting the Queen Wilhelmina Park: This park is home to a variety of plants and animals, as well as a statue of Queen Wilhelmina of the Netherlands.
  • Exploring the Aruba Museum: This museum tells the story of Aruba’s history and culture.
  • Visiting the Fort Zoutman: This fort was built in the 17th century to protect Aruba from pirates.
  • Shopping at the Royal Plaza Mall: This mall is home to a variety of stores, including international brands and local boutiques.
  • Dining at one of the many restaurants in Oranjestad: There are a variety of restaurants to choose from, including local cuisine, international cuisine, and fast food.

What are the best beaches near the cruise port?

There are a few different beaches near the cruise port, including:

  • Palm Beach: This beach is known for its white sand, clear water, and beautiful views of the Caribbean Sea. There are also a number of hotels, restaurants, and shops located near Palm Beach.
  • Eagle Beach: This beach is known for its calm waters and strong winds, making it a popular spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing. There are also a number of hotels, restaurants, and shops located near Eagle Beach.
  • Renaissance Island: This private island is owned by the Renaissance Hotels and Resorts and is home to a variety of amenities, including a beach, a pool, a spa, and a variety of restaurants.

What are the best restaurants near the cruise port?

There are a variety of restaurants near the cruise port, including:

  • The Landing: This restaurant serves Mediterranean cuisine and has beautiful views of the harbor.
  • Cactus Jack’s: This restaurant serves American cuisine and is known for its burgers and ribs.
  • El Gaucho Argentinian Steakhouse: This restaurant serves Argentinian steak and has a lively atmosphere.
  • La Trattoria di Aruba: This restaurant serves Italian cuisine and has a romantic atmosphere.
  • The Old Chimney: This restaurant serves Caribbean cuisine and has a casual atmosphere.

there are many things to see and do near the cruise port in Aruba. You can visit the famous beaches, go shopping at the duty-free stores, or explore the island’s unique culture. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars to choose from, so you’re sure to find something to your taste. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an exciting adventure, Aruba has something to offer everyone. So what are you waiting for? Book your cruise today and start exploring!

Key Takeaways

  • The cruise port in Aruba is located in the capital city of Oranjestad.
  • There are many things to see and do near the cruise port, including beaches, shopping, and restaurants.
  • Aruba is a popular tourist destination due to its beautiful beaches, clear water, and friendly people.
  • The best time to visit Aruba is during the dry season, which runs from December to April.

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.