What to Do in Oranjestad, Aruba from a Cruise Ship

AvatarByDale Richard Cruise/Cruising

Aruba: A Caribbean Paradise Just a Short Cruise Away

Aruba is a Caribbean island that’s known for its white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and friendly people. It’s also a popular cruise destination, with many ships calling on the island’s capital, Oranjestad.

If you’re planning a cruise to Aruba, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to things to do. You can spend your days swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, diving, fishing, or exploring the island’s many attractions. And when the sun goes down, you can enjoy a lively nightlife scene in Oranjestad.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best things to do in Oranjestad from a cruise ship. We’ll also provide tips on how to make the most of your time in this beautiful Caribbean paradise.

So what are you waiting for? Book your cruise to Aruba today!

Activity Cost Description
Visit the Queen Wilhelmina Park $0 This park is home to the Queen Wilhelmina Tower, which offers stunning views of the city.
Take a walk along the waterfront $0 This is a great way to see the cruise ships and the beautiful scenery.
Visit the Aruba Zoo $20-$25 This zoo is home to a variety of animals, including monkeys, snakes, and birds.
Go snorkeling $30-$40 This is a great way to see the colorful fish and coral reefs.
Go scuba diving $50-$60 This is a great way to see the underwater shipwrecks and caves.

Sightseeing

Oranjestad is a charming city with a rich history and culture. There are many things to see and do in Oranjestad, from exploring the city’s historic sites to relaxing on its beautiful beaches. Here are some of the top things to do in Oranjestad:

  • Cruise ship terminal

The cruise ship terminal is located in the heart of Oranjestad and is a great place to start your exploration of the city. The terminal is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars, and it’s also a convenient place to catch a taxi or bus to other parts of the island.

  • Queen Wilhelmina Park

Queen Wilhelmina Park is a beautiful park located in the heart of Oranjestad. The park is home to a variety of flowers, trees, and sculptures, and it’s a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery. The park is also home to the Government House, which is the official residence of the Governor of Aruba.

  • Fort Zoutman

Fort Zoutman is a historic fort that was built in the 17th century to protect the city from pirates. The fort is now a museum that is open to the public. Visitors can learn about the history of the fort and the role it played in protecting the city.

  • Royal Palace of Aruba

The Royal Palace of Aruba is the official residence of the King of the Netherlands when he is in Aruba. The palace is a beautiful building that is located on the waterfront. Visitors can tour the palace and learn about the history of the monarchy in Aruba.

  • Alto Vista Chapel

Alto Vista Chapel is a small chapel that is located on a hill overlooking the city of Oranjestad. The chapel was built in the 18th century and is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the city and the surrounding area from the chapel.

  • Renaissance Island

Renaissance Island is a private island that is located just off the coast of Oranjestad. The island is home to a variety of restaurants, bars, shops, and activities. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, and diving on the island.

Beaches

Oranjestad is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Here are some of the top beaches to visit in Oranjestad:

  • Palm Beach

Palm Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Oranjestad. The beach is known for its white sand, clear water, and beautiful palm trees. Palm Beach is also home to a variety of hotels, restaurants, and bars.

  • Eagle Beach

Eagle Beach is another popular beach in Oranjestad. The beach is known for its strong waves, which make it a popular spot for surfers. Eagle Beach is also home to a variety of hotels, restaurants, and bars.

  • Manchebo Beach

Manchebo Beach is a beautiful beach that is located just south of Oranjestad. The beach is known for its calm waters, which make it a great spot for swimming and snorkeling. Manchebo Beach is also home to a variety of hotels, restaurants, and bars.

  • Baby Beach

Baby Beach is a small beach that is located just north of Oranjestad. The beach is known for its shallow water, which makes it a great spot for families with young children. Baby Beach is also home to a variety of hotels, restaurants, and bars.

  • Druif Beach

Druif Beach is a beautiful beach that is located on the west coast of Aruba. The beach is known for its secluded location and its stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. Druif Beach is also home to a variety of hotels, restaurants, and bars.

Activities

Oranjestad is a vibrant city with plenty to offer visitors. Here are a few of the activities you can enjoy while in port:

  • Shopping: Oranjestad is a shopper’s paradise, with everything from duty-free boutiques to local markets. You can find everything from souvenirs to designer clothes and jewelry. Some of the best places to shop include:
  • Royal Plaza Mall: This is the largest shopping mall in Aruba, with over 100 stores.
  • Palm Beach Plaza: This outdoor mall is located right on the beach, and offers a variety of shops and restaurants.
  • Wilhelminastraat: This street is lined with shops and cafes, and is a great place to people-watch.
  • Dining: Oranjestad has a wide variety of restaurants to choose from, serving everything from international cuisine to local specialties. Some of the best restaurants in town include:
  • Flying Fishbone: This restaurant is known for its fresh seafood dishes, and has a beautiful view of the harbor.
  • The Landing: This restaurant is located on the beach, and offers a casual atmosphere and delicious food.
  • La Trattoria: This Italian restaurant is a popular choice for both tourists and locals.
  • Nightlife: Oranjestad has a lively nightlife scene, with something to offer everyone. There are a variety of bars, clubs, and casinos to choose from. Some of the most popular nightlife spots include:
  • Carlos ‘n Charlie’s: This bar is known for its wild parties and live music.
  • The Landing: This beach club has a relaxed atmosphere and great music.
  • The Casino: This casino offers a variety of games, including slots, blackjack, and roulette.
  • Water sports: Oranjestad is located on the Caribbean Sea, and offers a variety of water sports activities. Some of the most popular activities include:
  • Snorkeling: There are a number of great snorkeling spots around Oranjestad, where you can see a variety of colorful fish and coral reefs.
  • Scuba diving: Aruba is a popular destination for scuba diving, and there are a number of dive sites to choose from. You can see a variety of marine life, including sharks, turtles, and dolphins.
  • Windsurfing: Oranjestad is a great place to windsurf, due to its consistent winds and warm water.
  • Golf: There are a number of golf courses in Oranjestad, ranging from beginner-friendly courses to challenging courses. Some of the most popular golf courses include:
  • Tierra del Sol Golf & Country Club: This course is located on a beautiful cliffside overlooking the Caribbean Sea.
  • Aruba Golf Club: This course is located in the heart of Oranjestad, and offers stunning views of the city.
  • The Links: This course is located on a former sugar plantation, and features a variety of challenging holes.

Getting Around

Oranjestad is a small city, and it is easy to get around on foot or by public transportation. However, if you want to explore the island, you may want to rent a car or scooter.

  • Taxis: Taxis are a convenient way to get around Oranjestad. They are metered, and the fare starts at AWG 2.50.
  • Buses: There are a number of bus routes that run throughout Oranjestad. The fare is AWG 1.50 per ride.
  • Rental cars: You can rent a car from a number of different companies in Oranjestad. The cost of a rental car starts at around AWG 50 per day.
  • Scooters: Scooters are a fun and convenient way to get around Oranjestad. You can rent a scooter from a number of different companies. The cost of a rental scooter starts at around AWG 25 per day.

Oranjestad is a vibrant city with plenty to offer visitors. Whether you want to shop, dine, party, or enjoy water sports, you’re sure to find something to do in Oranjestad.

Q: What are the best things to do in Oranjestad, Aruba from a cruise ship?

A: There are many great things to do in Oranjestad, Aruba from a cruise ship. Here are a few of the best:

  • Visit the Queen Wilhelmina Park. This beautiful park is located in the heart of Oranjestad and is home to the Queen Wilhelmina Monument, a statue of the former queen of the Netherlands. The park is also a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery.
  • Take a walk or bike ride along the waterfront. The waterfront is lined with shops, restaurants, and bars, and it’s a great place to people-watch and enjoy the views of the Caribbean Sea.
  • Visit the Fort Zoutman Museum. This museum is housed in a 17th-century fort and tells the story of Aruba’s history. It’s a great place to learn about the island’s culture and traditions.
  • Go snorkeling or scuba diving. Aruba’s clear waters and beautiful coral reefs are perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving. There are many great dive sites to choose from, and you’re sure to see a variety of marine life.
  • Visit the Alto Vista Chapel. This chapel is located on a hill overlooking Oranjestad and offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding area. It’s a popular spot for sunset photos.

Q: How long do I need to stay in Oranjestad to see the main sights?

A: You can see the main sights in Oranjestad in a day or two, but if you want to enjoy all that the island has to offer, you’ll need to stay longer. Aruba is a popular tourist destination, and there are many things to see and do, including beaches, restaurants, bars, and shops.

Q: What is the best way to get around Oranjestad?

A: The best way to get around Oranjestad is by taxi. Taxis are plentiful and relatively inexpensive. You can also rent a car, but be aware that traffic can be heavy during peak tourist season.

Q: What is the weather like in Oranjestad?

A: Oranjestad has a tropical climate with warm weather year-round. The average temperature is 82 degrees Fahrenheit, and the average humidity is 75%. The rainy season runs from October to December, but it’s usually just a few showers a day.

Q: What is the best time to visit Oranjestad?

A: The best time to visit Oranjestad is from January to April, when the weather is driest and the temperatures are mild. The island is also less crowded during these months.

Q: What are the best restaurants in Oranjestad?

A: There are many great restaurants in Oranjestad, serving everything from international cuisine to local specialties. Some of the best restaurants include:

  • The Landing Restaurant & Beach Bar – This restaurant offers stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and serves a variety of seafood dishes.
  • Pinchos & Tapas Bar – This tapas bar is a great place to try a variety of small plates, including paella, empanadas, and croquettes.
  • Barefoot Bob’s – This beachfront restaurant serves fresh seafood and grilled meats.
  • La Trattoria di Aruba – This Italian restaurant offers classic dishes like pasta, pizza, and risotto.
  • The West Deck – This restaurant offers waterfront dining and serves a variety of American classics.

Q: What are the best bars in Oranjestad?

A: There are many great bars in Oranjestad, where you can enjoy a drink and watch the sunset over the Caribbean Sea. Some of the best bars include:

  • The Landing Restaurant & Beach Bar – This bar offers stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and a variety of cocktails and beers.
  • Pinchos & Tapas Bar – This tapas bar also has a great bar, where you can enjoy a variety of small plates and cocktails.
  • Barefoot Bob’s – This beachfront bar is a great place to relax and enjoy a drink with friends.
  • La Trattoria di Aruba – This Italian restaurant also has a great bar, where you can enjoy a glass of wine or a cocktail with your meal.
  • The West Deck – This restaurant offers waterfront dining and a great bar, where you can enjoy a drink

Oranjestad, Aruba is a beautiful and vibrant city that offers a variety of attractions for cruise ship passengers. Whether you want to relax on the beach, explore the city’s historic sites, or go shopping, you’re sure to find something to do in Oranjestad.

Here are a few key takeaways from this article:

  • Oranjestad is a safe and easy-to-navigate city. There’s no need to worry about getting lost or pickpocketed.
  • The city has a variety of attractions, including beaches, museums, and shops. You can easily spend a few days exploring everything Oranjestad has to offer.
  • The weather in Oranjestad is warm and sunny year-round. You can enjoy the beach or go swimming any time of year.

If you’re looking for a fun and exciting place to visit on your next cruise, Oranjestad, Aruba is a great option. With its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and friendly people, you’re sure to have a memorable time in this Caribbean paradise.

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.