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Caribbean

Oranjestad, Aruba

Discover the "One Happy Island" through its colorful Dutch colonial capital. Come hungry and leave time to wander.

Quick Facts

Weather Range

81-90F (27-32C)

Currency

AWG,USD

Language

Dutch, Papiamento

Time Zone

AST (UTC-4)

Overview

Oranjestad is a visual delight, a Caribbean capital that looks like a miniature Amsterdam painted in tropical pastels. The meticulously restored Dutch colonial buildings along the waterfront are a shoppers dream, filled with luxury boutiques and jewelers. But Arubas real magic lies in its stunning natural contrasts. Just moments from the port, youll find the world-famous Eagle and Palm beaches, where calm, turquoise water meets powdery white sand. Head to the islands rugged north shore, and youll discover a wild, desert-like landscape of cacti, crashing waves, and natural rock bridges. This is an island of happy contradictions.

Top Sights

  • Arikok National Park
Explore Arubas rugged, wild side in this massive national park, which covers almost 20% of the island. Discover. desert landscapes, historic caves with Arawak paintings, and stunning natural pools like Conchi.
  • Oranjestad Waterfront
Stroll along the harbor and main street to admire the colorful Dutch colonial architecture. This area is the. islands main hub for high-end, duty-free shopping, as well as restaurants and casinos.
  • Palm Beach
This is the islands high-energy resort strip, lined with luxury hotels, casinos, and beach bars. The. water here is incredibly calm, making it perfect for swimming and watersports.
  • California Lighthouse
Located on the islands northern tip, this historic lighthouse offers some of the best panoramic views of Aruba. It's a perfect. spot to watch the sunset over the islands rugged north coast and calm western.
  • Natural Bridge
Witness the power of the ocean at the ruins of Arubas most famous landmark. While the large bridge collapsed in 2005. the adjacent Baby Bridge is still a stunning example of a sea-carved coral limestone.
  • Eagle Beach
This is one of the most famous and beautiful beaches in the world, known for its pristine, wide stretch of soft. white sand. It's also home to the two iconic fofoti trees, which are a.

Neighborhoods

Noord

Local eats and photo spots

Savaneta

Local eats and photo spots

San Nicolas

Local eats and photo spots

Paradera

Local eats and photo spots

Shore Things Excursions

Make the most of your time in port. These popular excursions are just a sampling of what's available—whether you're after thrills, culture, or pure relaxation.

VIP Safari Truck & Beach Picnic

5.0 Hours

Moderate

Hop on a VIP Safari truck expedition across Aruba's landscape, view the island's must-see spots, then head to a sandy beach for a picnic and a dip.
View Details
From

$145 USD

Jewels of San Nicolas

4.5 Hours

Moderate

A former industrial boomtown that faded into obscurity, San Nicolas is going through an exciting (and artistic) metamorphosis.
View Details
From

$60 USD

Kukoo Kunuku’s Aruba Bar Blitz

3.0 Hours

Easy

Aruba's lively pub crawl with Kukoo Kunuku.
View Details
From

$65 USD

Champagne & Lobster Catamaran Extravaganza

3.5 Hours

Moderate

Seafaring dreams are made of these - vision board-worthy shores, turquoise waters, freshly grilled lobster and flavorful drinks.
View Details
From

$150 USD

Explore all Oranjestad Shore Things
© Shore Things photos courtesy of Virgin Voyages®

Shore Excursions

Make the most of your time in port. These popular excursions are just a sampling of what's available—whether you're after thrills, culture, or pure relaxation.
Worry-free excursions powered by Viator

VIP Safari Truck & Beach Picnic

5.0 Hours

Moderate

Hop on a VIP Safari truck expedition across Aruba's landscape, view the island's must-see spots, then head to a sandy beach for a picnic and a dip.
View Details
From

$145 USD

Jewels of San Nicolas

4.5 Hours

Moderate

A former industrial boomtown that faded into obscurity, San Nicolas is going through an exciting (and artistic) metamorphosis.
View Details
From

$60 USD

Kukoo Kunuku’s Aruba Bar Blitz

3.0 Hours

Easy

Aruba's lively pub crawl with Kukoo Kunuku.
View Details
From

$65 USD

Champagne & Lobster Catamaran Extravaganza

3.5 Hours

Moderate

Seafaring dreams are made of these - vision board-worthy shores, turquoise waters, freshly grilled lobster and flavorful drinks.
View Details
From

$150 USD

Explore all Oranjestad Shore Things
© Shore Things photos courtesy of Virgin Voyages®

Map

Quick Facts

Weather Range

81-90F (27-32C)

Currency

AWG,USD

Language

Dutch, Papiamento

Time Zone

AST (UTC-4)

Ready to explore Oranjestad?

Discover voyages that visit this amazing destination.
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