Oranjestad, Aruba Port Guide
Oranjestad, Aruba Cruise Port: Guide to an Amazing Experience
Oranjestad is the vibrant capital of Aruba, and it offers a delightful cruise port experience with its rich cultural heritage, beautiful beaches, and unique shopping opportunities.
Moreover, known for its charming Dutch colonial architecture and a lively waterfront, Oranjestad is a prime destination for cruisers seeking relaxation and adventure. Aruba is one of the “ABC” islands, along with Bonaire and Curaçao.
Two things immediately struck me on both of my visits to Aruba. First, the landscape. The island is absolutely covered in cacti, giving it a desert-like appearance that feels entirely unexpected for a tropical Caribbean destination.
The dry climate, limited rainfall, and steady trade winds create ideal conditions for hardy plants like cactus, which thrive here in a way they don’t on more lush, rain-soaked islands. It contrasts dramatically with bright turquoise waters and white sand beaches against towering cactus and rugged terrain.
The Language & Hospitality of Aruba
The second thing that stood out was the language. I had assumed that, being part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, most people would speak Dutch. But as I listened to conversations, I noticed something else entirely.
I kept picking up snippets of Spanish, English, and something I couldn’t quite place. That “something” turned out to be Portuguese, which is the other language embedded in the dialect of Papiamento, the local language spoken not just in Aruba, but also in Bonaire and Curaçao.
Papiamento is a Creole language that developed over centuries and blends elements of Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch, English, African languages, and even a bit of French. It’s a true reflection of the region’s multicultural history and colonial influences, and as a typical American who's only fluent in one language, I'm fascinated by it.
Most locals speak Papiamento fluently, along with English and Dutch, and many also understand Spanish, making Aruba one of the most multilingual islands in the Caribbean.
You’ll likely hear the phrase "Bon Bini" while you’re in Aruba. It means “welcome” in Papiamento and is one of the most common greetings you'll encounter across the island. The warm and friendly Bon Bini! is a small but meaningful reflection of Aruba’s hospitality and indicates the friendly folks you'll meet when you visit here as a port of call.
Aruba proudly calls itself “One Happy Island,” and it’s easy to see why. From the warm hospitality to the island’s easygoing vibe and notion of living on "island time," there’s a positive energy here that leaves a lasting impression on visitors.
About the Oranjestad Cruise Port
The Oranjestad Cruise Port is a popular stop for several major cruise lines, including Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and others. The port features two main terminals, Terminal A and Terminal B, both of which are equipped to handle large cruise ships and offer a range of amenities for passengers. Terminal A is primarily used for cruise passengers and provides easy access to the city center.
Oranjestad is usually a docked port, but some ships may anchor offshore on crowded cruise days and tender passengers to shore. During my most recent visit, on Carnival Horizon, a Norwegian ship was docked offshore and tendering cruisers in.
Note: If you’re visiting Aruba, it’s important to note that civilians are prohibited from wearing camouflage.
What sets Oranjestad apart as a cruise port is its proximity to the city center and the availability of unique shopping experiences right at the port. The port area is well-known for its selection of Aruban cuisine, with local specialties like keshi yena (stuffed cheese) and pastechi (filled pastries) being favorites among visitors.
On a recent visit, I tried pastechi and found it interesting. It's sort of like an empanada, but with a slightly sweeter dough.
Related: Watch all my Oranjestad video content
How Far is Oranjestad Cruise Port from the City Center?
The Oranjestad Cruise Port is conveniently located about a half mile from the city center, making it easily accessible on foot. For those who prefer not to walk, there are several other options. Ride-sharing services like Uber are available, offering a quick and convenient way to get around. Alternatively, shuttle services and taxis are readily available at the port.
Taxis in Oranjestad are regulated with set rates and typically cost around $10 to $15 to the city center. Alternatively, public transportation is also an option, with buses running regularly and costing approximately $2 per ride.
If you opt for a bus, the main bus terminal is conveniently located across the street from the cruise terminal. If you aim to visit the city center, however, your best option is to take the trolley, which is FREE.
The Oranjestad Trolley
A great thing about this cruise port is its Oranjestad Downtown Trolley, which offers a convenient and free transportation option for cruisers in the downtown area of Oranjestad, Aruba. The trolley provides a scenic ride through the city, stopping at popular attractions, shopping areas, and historical sites.
It's a great way for visitors to explore the city center without any cost, and it’s a “hop-on, hop-off” trolley, so cruisers have the freedom to explore the sites they want and for however long they want and skip the ones that don’t interest them.
There are eight stops where passengers can explore the Archaeological Museum’s exhibits on pre-Ceramic, Ceramic, and historic cultural periods, view several historic 19th—and 20th-century Dutch Colonial buildings, and pass by the executive and legislative branches of the Aruban government.
Other points of interest directly accessible include: Aruba Bank House, Huisje Wild, Cas Henriquez and the Archaeological Museum, the Protestant Church, Zoutman Straat #1, Government offices, House of Parliament, Fort Zoutman (Historical Museum), Hotel Colombia, Wilhelmina Straat #11, and the Cocolishi Building.
Open-Air Bus Tour
On my most recent visit to Aruba, I opted for one of Aruba's many open-air bus tours, specifically the Cross Aruba open-air bus tour, and it turned out to be the perfect way to see the highlights of the island without having to navigate on my own. This guided tour uses a colorful open-air bus, making the ride part of the fun, and offers a breezy and comfortable way to explore beyond Oranjestad.
Important note, though... I got sunburned. I stupidly didn't wear sunscreen, thinking I didn't need to since I'd be on a bus, but didn't account for the fact that one of my arms and back (I sat in the back row) would be exposed to the sun for several hours. That was a painful mistake, so don't forget your sunscreen!
The tour included stops at some of Aruba’s most iconic landmarks, including the California Lighthouse, Natural Bridge, the Ayo Rock Formation, and a 30-minute beach break at Baby Beach.
It was a great way to get a broad overview of the island and experience Aruba’s most famous sights while learning from a knowledgeable and entertaining guide. We also saw some of the island's famous wild donkeys along the way.
This is a solid option for cruisers who want to see a lot in a short amount of time, and the bus departs conveniently from the cruise port area. If you’re not interested in shopping or lounging at a beach all day, this is a fun, easy, and informative way to spend your time in Aruba.
Related: Book the Cross Aruba Open-Air Bus Tour - Use code MELISSA10 to save on your booking!
Beaches at the Oranjestad Cruise Port
If downtown Oranjestad isn’t your thing, and you want to enjoy a day at the beach to experience Aruba’s gorgeous sands and crystal clear waters, there are lots of great options. While there’s no direct beach access at the Oranjestad cruise port, several beautiful beaches are nearby. At all of these beaches, you can expect to find local vendors on hand to rent lounge chairs and umbrellas, and these prices are often negotiable.
Arashi Beach
Arashi Beach, situated approximately 7 miles from the Oranjestad cruise port, is a beautiful destination known for its calm waters, pristine sandy shores, and excellent snorkeling opportunities. Although it isn’t walkable from the port, unlike other beaches, it may be worth the cost of a taxi or Uber to visit Arashi Beach due to its excellent swimming conditions and the likelihood of smaller crowds.
Eagle Beach
Eagle Beach, located approximately 1.5 miles from the Oranjestad cruise port in Aruba, is renowned for its soft white sand and clear turquoise waters and is one of the most popular beaches in the city. Known for its serene atmosphere and ample space, Eagle Beach offers visitors a relaxing spot to unwind and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Palm Beach
Palm Beach is situated approximately 3 miles from the port. It’s a short taxi ride away, costing around $10. This beach is famous for its calm waters and lively atmosphere, with numerous resorts, bars, and restaurants lining the shore.
Druif Beach
Druif Beach, located approximately 2 miles from the Oranjestad cruise port, is a picturesque spot in Aruba known for its expansive sandy shore and calm, clear waters. This beach is perfect for sunbathing and swimming, offering a peaceful environment away from the busier tourist areas.
Baby Beach
While it's not the most convenient beach for cruisers, my top choice in Aruba is Baby Beach. Located on the southeastern tip of Aruba, about 13 miles from the Oranjestad cruise port, it's one of the furthest beach options for cruisers, but also one of the most unique and memorable.
Named for its shallow, calm waters, which is perfect for smaller kiddos, Baby Beach is ideal for families with young children or anyone looking to float and relax in a protected lagoon.
The crescent-shaped bay offers crystal clear water and soft white sand. It’s a popular snorkeling spot with a gradual entry, making it easy and safe even for beginners. However, it is a little rocky, so I recommend bringing water shoes.
While it takes about 30 to 40 minutes to reach by taxi or rental car, many cruisers find it worth the extra effort for a more local and less touristy beach day. There's also a lovely beach bar, Rum Reef Bar and Grill, right by the main entrance to Baby Beach.
Things to Do at the Oranjestad Cruise Port
If you head left out of the terminal and walk past the main shopping area, you’ll come across one of Aruba’s most popular photo ops—the iconic “I ā¯¤ļø¸ Aruba” sign. It’s a great spot to snap a quick picture before continuing your day.
If you turn right instead, you’ll find more than just typical cruise port shopping. This direction leads to Renaissance Mall, an upscale open-air shopping center with luxury brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Michael Kors, Carolina Herrera, and a few well-known mid-range favorites. This area offers a higher-end shopping experience within easy walking distance of the ship, and en route to the mall, you'll find lots of touristy shops, bars, and restaurants along the way.
Aside from shopping, several historical and cultural sites are also within walking distance from the cruise terminal. These include the Museo Archeologico (Archeological Museum) and Exposition Hall, Fort Zoutman/Historical Museum, the Protestant Church (1950), the Town Hall building, and others.
Unfortunately, on the date of my most recent visit, many shops and sites were closed to celebrate Aruba's Flag Day, a national holiday.
Top Things to Do in Oranjestad
Below are some of the top things to do in Oranjestad. Many of these are offered as official cruise line excursions, or you can get there on your own and enjoy the activity independently.
Before deciding on your excursions and whether to go through the cruise line or independently, make sure to know the pros and cons (and risks) of these options, which I cover in detail in this post.
Many adventurous activities in Oranjestad are offered as excursions, including ATV/UTV tours, horseback riding, guided island tours, and water activities. For those not as hungry for adventure, though, Aruba also offers plenty of less adrenaline-pumping activities, which include museums and historic sites.
Is the Aruba Submarine Excursion Worth It?
One unique excursion offered in Aruba is the Atlantis submarine excursion. Guests board a real submarine and descend over 100 feet beneath the surface to explore Aruba’s marine life and shipwrecks. It’s a rare experience, not something you can do at every Caribbean port, and it offers a completely different perspective of the island.
On my first visit to Aruba, I chose this excursion. It was interesting and definitely on my bucket list. Being inside a real submarine, watching fish and coral pass by the portholes, and getting up close to shipwrecks was unlike anything I’d done before. It’s worth noting that at those depths, the absence of UV light means colors appear muted and everything underwater tends to look more brown or gray rather than bright and vibrant.
Related: Book the Atlantis submarine excursion in Aruba.
That said, it’s not something I’d probably do again. While I’m glad I did it once, the tour took up most of my port day, so I didn’t get to explore much of Aruba. I missed out on wandering through Oranjestad, checking out the beaches, or getting a feel for the local culture.
So, if this is your first time on the island and you want to really experience Aruba as a destination, just keep in mind that this excursion is cool but time-consuming.
Related: Read my full review of the Aruba submarine excursion.
Aruba Aloe Factory and Museum Tour
Located less than two miles from the cruise port, the Aruba Aloe Factory and Museum is a must-visit attraction. This tour provides a fascinating insight into the history and production of aloe vera, one of Aruba’s most famous exports.
Visitors can see the production process, learn about the plant’s healing properties, and purchase various aloe-based products. Self-guided tours are free, but donations are encouraged.
California Lighthouse and California Dunes
Situated 6 miles from the port, the California Lighthouse offers stunning views of the island’s northwestern tip. This historical landmark is named after the steamship California, which wrecked nearby. The area around the lighthouse, known as the California Dunes, provides beautiful scenic views. Admission to the lighthouse is just $5, making it a great, affordable option.
Butterfly Farm
The Butterfly Farm is a unique attraction just two miles from the port. A taxi ride will cost about ten bucks. This farm is home to hundreds of rare butterflies. Guided tours are available, offering insights into the life cycle of these beautiful insects. Entrance fees are a little steep, at $19 for adults.
Northeastern Coast
If you're interested in exploring Aruba’s natural and historic landmarks, a group of key sites can be found clustered near each other on the island’s northeastern coast. These include the Natural Bridge, the Ayo Rock Formation, the Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins, and the striking Red Anchor monument.
Natural Bridge & Ayo Rock Formation
The Natural Bridge, once Aruba’s most famous geological formation, partially collapsed in 2005, but it remains a popular photo stop and still showcases the island’s rugged coastline. Nearby, the Ayo Rock Formation features large, unusual boulders that seem to rise from the flat desert landscape, with paths and stairways that make exploring easy.
Burshiribana Gold Mill Ruins
Just a short drive away are the Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins, remnants of Aruba’s brief gold rush era in the 19th century. The ruins overlook a rugged stretch of shoreline, not on a traditional beach. The area features rocky terrain and crashing waves rather than soft sand and swimmable water.
Rock Cairns
Adjacent to the ruins, right by the shoreline, you'll find an area filled with stacked stone sculptures, often called "wishing rocks" or rock cairns. Visitors have created these small towers by stacking flat stones on top of each other, aiming to stack seven stones specifically, in a practice believed by some to bring good luck or make a wish come true. The result is a striking, almost spiritual landscape of balanced stones, adding a unique, human-made element to the natural surroundings.
The Red Anchor
On the southeastern coast, the Red Anchor stands as a tribute to lost seafarers and marks the gateway to this little cluster of attractions in Aruba's northeastern coast. It's a nice, quick photo-op stop.
These attractions are often visited together on guided island tours, including the Cross Aruba Open-Air Bus Tour mentioned above, along with many excursions offered by the cruise lines, as they are located relatively close to one another and make for a scenic and educational inland route.
If you’re planning a DIY taxi tour or booking through a local operator, consider requesting this cluster of stops for an efficient half-day adventure. You can also book a UTV tour of this area, allowing you some adventure (and dust!) as you explore these top sites of Aruba's northeastern coast.
Can I See Flamingos in Aruba if I'm on a Cruise?
When people think of Aruba, images of flamingos strolling along the beach often come to mind, and this is a notion that I also held. And while those photos are definitely real, flamingos aren’t native to the island’s public beaches, and you won’t spot them wandering around freely.
The famous flamingos live on Renaissance Island, a private island owned by the Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort. The only way to see them is by visiting this exclusive island, which is accessible either to hotel guests or a very limited number of day pass holders.
The Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort is located within the Renaissance Mall, which I mentioned earlier. A small waterway runs through the mall, and just outside the hotel lobby, but still inside the mall complex, you’ll find the dock for the water shuttle. This private boat transports hotel guests and day pass holders over to Renaissance Island.
If you're visiting Aruba on a cruise, it can be very difficult to get a day pass unless you plan far in advance. Day passes occasionally become available through the resort’s website, but they are limited and sell out quickly. If seeing flamingos is a must-do for you, keep an eye on the Renaissance website in the weeks leading up to your cruise to check for pass availability.
Just know that this is a curated experience—not something you’ll randomly come across during your port day. Still, if you’re lucky enough to snag a day pass, it can make for a truly memorable photo opportunity.
Language and Currency
The official language in Oranjestad, Aruba, is Dutch. As noted above, Papiamento is widely spoken and recognized as a national language. Due to the island's tourism industry, many locals also speak English and Spanish. All vendors and folks in the touristy areas spoke fluent English during my visits.
The official currency of Oranjestad, Aruba, is the Aruban florin (AWG), but US dollars are widely accepted throughout the island, including at shops, restaurants, and tourist attractions.
Most businesses also accept credit cards and contactless payment methods. However, when using US cash in Caribbean ports, it’s important to note that vendors may refuse bills that are overly worn, marked, torn, or damaged. Additionally, change may be given in the local currency.
While credit cards are commonly accepted, I highly recommend using a travel-focused credit card *such as this one) instead of a debit card when making purchases in cruise port destinations.
A good travel credit card offers stronger fraud protection and often comes with valuable perks, including travel insurance, no foreign transaction fees, and rewards points for every purchase.
In contrast, using a debit card can put your bank account at risk, as funds are withdrawn immediately and may take longer to recover in the event of fraud.
Oranjestad Cruise Port Ship Schedule
The Oranjestad, Aruba cruise ship schedule can be found directly on the Aruba Port Authority website.
Climate and What to Wear
Oranjestad enjoys a tropical climate with average temperatures ranging from 80°F to 85°F throughout the year. Constant trade winds keep the area’s climate pleasant. Locals recommend light, breathable clothing, sunscreen, and a hat to protect against the intense sun.
Related: Shop my favorite cruise clothes and cruise essentials.
Time Zone
Keeping track of time zones can get complicated when cruising, especially for itineraries with multiple time zone changes on one sailing. Your captain will make announcements during the cruise to update you on these changes, but it’s good to be aware of these differences ahead of time when planning your stop at the port, especially for excursions.
Most cruise lines operate on “ship time” set to the time of their departing port, so it’s generally good practice to keep your phone or watch set to ship time.
As for the Oranjestad cruise port, Aruba operates on Atlantic Standard Time (AST). If your ship operates off Eastern Standard Time (EST), it will likely differ if it embarks from a Florida or East Coast departure port. Keeping track of the time is crucial, especially ensuring you stay coordinated with ship time.
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