Is Aruba a port of call on your Caribbean cruise itinerary? Are you wondering how to spend the day on this tropical island just off the coast of Venezuela? Aruba is a stunning island, famous for its pristine beaches, coral reefs, vibrant culture, Dutch heritage, and balmy weather. With so much on offer, how can you make the most of your cruise day in port? To help you decide, I’ve reviewed Aruba’s top attractions, tours, and shore excursions.
Aruba is a popular cruise destination in the southern Caribbean. It belongs to the Kingdom of the Netherlands and forms part of the ABC islands, which also include Bonaire and Curaçao. Together, these are part of a group of six islands in the Dutch Caribbean that also encompasses the Lesser Antilles, specifically the Windward Islands. Unlike most Caribbean islands, which have a humid climate, Aruba’s climate is dry and sunny.
Are you ready to embark on a sun-soaked adventure as you explore Aruba? If so, continue reading to find hidden gems, fun-filled activities, and picture-perfect beaches to make your day in this Caribbean paradise unforgettable.
Where is Aruba Located?
Aruba is a picturesque Caribbean island in the southern Caribbean Sea, 18 miles (29 km) north of Venezuela’s northern coast. The island is known for its pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and rich cultural heritage. Its year-round warm climate gives cruise passengers a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities.
Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao make up a group of three islands called the ABC Islands. They are situated outside the Caribbean hurricane belt. Therefore, Aruba is one of the safest Caribbean cruise destinations, making it a desirable destination for travelers year-round.
Its flat, riverless landscape is renowned for its white sand beaches, with temperatures averaging around 81°F (27°C) throughout the year and minimal rainfall.
Map of Aruba
Where Do Cruise Ships Dock in Aruba?
The cruise terminal in Aruba is located at the north end of Oranjestad, the island’s capital city. The cruise port has four piers, two of which have terminal buildings. A maximum of three cruise ships are typically in port at any given time. The piers are located beside the main street, Lloyd G. Smith Boulevard.
The best thing about Aruba Cruise Terminal’s location is its proximity to amenities and attractions in Oranjestad. After exiting the port area, it only takes a few minutes to walk to the downtown area. Also, licensed taxis are available outside the cruise terminal. Therefore, exploring the island on a cruise is straightforward.
Amenities at Aruba Cruise Port
The Aruba cruise terminal in Oranjestad includes a range of services and shopping opportunities. The air-conditioned buildings have souvenir shops, tourist information, and car rental services. Here, you can buy Dutch delicacies and local Caribbean handicrafts and souvenirs.
Unlike many cruise destinations on the Caribbean Islands, the terminal area does not have attractions. However, the center of Oranjestad is a short 10-minute walk from the terminal. Also, you can turn right from the terminal area on Lloyd G. Smith Boulevard and take a leisurely 30-minute walk to reach the nearest beach, Surfside Beach.
How to Get Around Aruba
When visiting Aruba, several transportation options exist for getting around the island. If you want to stay close to the cruise port in Oranjestad, you can easily explore the city on foot. There is also a free open-air trolley from the cruise terminal to the city’s downtown area.
Here are the best ways to explore Aruba to make the most of your cruise day.
Public Bus
Aruba has an excellent public bus system, making it convenient and cheap to get to the best beaches. The bus station is located across from the cruise terminal on L.G. Smith Boulevard. All the most popular beaches have stops. A round trip costs around $5, and you can buy an unlimited day pass for $10.
You can find information about fares, schedules, and destinations on the Arubus website.
Taxi
Taxis are the most convenient way to get anywhere on the island from the cruise terminal. Taxis are not metered, so cab drivers have standardized fares for specific destinations. Therefore, you should confirm the fare before your journey to avoid being overcharged. It’s good to remember that the cost is per taxi, not per person.
Aruba taxi drivers are known for their friendly and helpful demeanor. You may also be able to arrange a tour to take you to popular tourist destinations. Also, Aruba cabs are reasonably priced. For example, it’s about $50 to take the 40-minute (16-mile / 25 km) journey from the cruise terminal to Baby Beach.
Walking
The easiest way to get around Oranjestad is by walking. It takes 10 to 15 minutes to get to picturesque streets with colorful architecture and a lively atmosphere. It is also easy to walk to some of the best shopping malls, like the Renaissance Marketplace, if you want to shop for jewelry, duty-free items, or unique souvenirs.
From the cruise terminal, turn left on Lloyd G. Smith Blvd. to access museums, historical buildings, and Surfside Beach.
Free trolley from the Cruise Terminal
You can hop on a free open-air trolley right outside the cruise terminal in Aruba to explore the city center of Oranjestad. The trolley offers a relaxed way to get to the main attractions in the city. You can hop on and off at various stops along the route.
Discovering Oranjestad
Oranjestad, literally meaning “orange city,” is Aruba’s capital. The city has a distinct vibrancy, giving you a unique and enriching experience on your cruise day. Oranjestad has some of the best Dutch Colonial architecture in the southern Caribbean. The port city also has fortifications and eight museums.
Things to Do Close to Aruba Cruise Port
Plenty of attractions are within walking distance of the cruise port in Aruba. For example, if you want to go shopping, the famous Renaissance Mall and Renaissance Marketplace are a 10-minute walk away. The Fort Zoutman Historical Museum is opposite the mall, and Surfside Beach takes 30 minutes on foot.
Shopping at the Oranjestad Cruise Port
Shopping at the Oranjestad Cruise Port is a cruise passenger’s dream. The Renaissance Marketplace is said to be one of the best tax- and duty-free shopping destinations in the Caribbean. However, boutiques, souvenir shops, and market stalls are dotted throughout the city, especially along Havenstraat and Schelpstraat.
Royal Plaza Mall
The colorful Royal Plaza Mall is a large shopping center in downtown Oranjestad, near the cruise ship terminal.
The stunning pink and white building features luxury brands and designer stores, jewelry and souvenir shops, bars, and restaurants.
The Renaissance Marketplace
The Renaissance Marketplace is a bustling hub of shopping activity close to the cruise terminal in Aruba. It is an outdoor market beside the cozy marina harbor. Here, you’ll find a plethora of upscale stores, restaurants, a six-screen cinema, and bars. The Seaport Casino is also nearby.
The Renaissance Marketplace is set out like a large open-air piazza. Apart from designer clothing outlets, dining establishments serve a range of cuisines, from Caribbean to Italian, Asian, and international fare.
The Renaissance Mall
The Renaissance Mall in Aruba offers luxurious shopping for Caribbean cruise passengers. Located a 10-minute walk from the cruise terminal, the iconic mall offers a wide range of top fashion brands and designers from around the world. Here, you can find the latest clothing, footwear, eyewear, and jewelry trends.
The restaurants in the Renaissance Mall are perfect if you’re looking for a fancy restaurant serving juicy steaks, seafood, and the best Caribbean cuisine. You can also enjoy pampering in the spa or try your luck in the Wind Creek Crystal Casino.
Local markets
The cruise terminal in Aruba has several markets where you can buy local souvenirs and gifts. There’s also a flea market beside the Renaissance Market. However, the bustling streets of Oranjestad have many outdoor market shops selling authentic souvenirs and local goods. The best streets for shopping are Havenstraat, Schelpstraat, and Main Street, which run parallel to L.G. Smith Blvd.
The good news is that you can combine shopping in local markets with visiting the local historical attractions and museums when walking around Oranjestad.
Historical Attractions to Visit in Oranjestad on a Cruise Day
The capital city of Aruba has plenty to offer if you want to stay close to the port.
Walking and tasting tour of downtown Oranjestad
A walking tour of downtown Oranjestad is the best way to experience the vibrant culture of the Caribbean. If you include food stops along the way, you’ll also get to enjoy the delicious flavors of Arubian cuisine. An immersive walking excursion takes you through the city’s historic, vibrant, and colorful streets.
Cruise passengers can take daytime walking tours to museums, monuments, and shops. Expert guides will tell fascinating stories about Aruba’s history and culture. Attractions include Fort Zoutman, the National Archeological Museum, a traditional family house, a Dutch queen statue, and city hall.
Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or a curious traveler, a walking and tasting tour in Oranjestad offers a delightful blend of sightseeing and gastronomic experiences. Tours start from Zoutmanstraat 1, which is 10 minutes by foot from the cruise terminal.
Tour Fort Zoutman Historical Museum (Museo Historico Aruba)
If you’re docking in Aruba and looking to dive into the island’s rich history, Fort Zoutman is a must-visit destination, just a 15-minute walk from the cruise terminal. Constructed in the 18th century to protect Aruba from pirates and enemy invasions, Fort Zoutman stands as Oranjestad’s oldest structure and offers a compelling glimpse into the island’s past. Today, it hosts the Fort Zoutman Historical Museum, where you can explore interactive exhibits that showcase artifacts and stories from Aruba’s colonial days.
Adding to the historical attraction is the Willem III Tower, built in 1868 within the fort’s premises. Originally serving as both a lighthouse and a public clock, this tower now provides one of the best panoramic views of Oranjestad from its top.
A guided tour, lasting approximately one hour, is the best way to fully experience the museum and tower. These tours are led by knowledgeable guides who provide in-depth insights and share captivating stories about the exhibits and the tower’s history. You’ll learn about the historical significance of Fort Zoutman, its unique architecture, and Aruba’s rich cultural heritage. The museum also hosts special exhibitions and cultural events throughout the year, offering visitors a deeper understanding of local traditions.
After exploring the museum and climbing the tower, you can extend your day with a leisurely visit to the nearby Wilhelmina Park or enjoy a relaxed stroll back to the Renaissance Marketplace for some shopping. Both the park and the marketplace provide pleasant environments where you can reflect on your museum experience and enjoy the scenic beauty of Oranjestad.
Wilhelmina Park
Wilhelmina Park is a picturesque waterfront park located near the Renaissance Marketplace. In the park, you can see a statue of Queen Wilhelmina of the Netherlands. This popular spot is ideal for relaxing under the shade of palm trees in the warm Caribbean sun. It has well-maintained pathways, lush greenery, and colorful flowers.
National Archaeological Museum of Aruba
If you’re a history buff, you’ll love the National Archaeological Museum of Aruba. Located on Schelpstraat, 10 minutes from the cruise terminal, the museum provides a fascinating glimpse into the island’s prehistory. It’s located in a restored colonial home and showcases objects and artifacts dating back over 3,500 years.
Some exhibits include stone tools, pottery, jewelry, and other artifacts from the island’s original inhabitants. You’ll also see a skeleton believed to be thousands of years old. Although there is no guided tour, all the artifacts are well-documented, and the staff are happy to answer any questions.
Admission to the museum is free, and donations are appreciated.
Ride the downtown trolley (Tranvia Aruba) in Oranjestad
The easiest way to explore the charming streets of Oranjestad is by hopping aboard the downtown trolley. This free hop-on-hop-off open-air trolley connects the cruise ship terminal with the town’s center. It makes several stops at the main attractions along the way.
The cute tram starts from the cruise terminal and takes you along Havenstraat, Schelpstraat, and to the end of Main Street. It then turns around at Plaza Nicky Habibe before returning to the port. The best thing about the tram is that it’s free to use.
Aruba Island coffee roasting and tasting tour
The Aruba Coffee Roasting Company is located at the Plaza Nicky Streetcar Stop. A guided tour of the facilities tells you about the entire coffee-making process. You learn how coffee is grown, harvested, and processed. Additionally, you get to roast coffee beans and learn about single-origin and blended coffees.
This Caribbean coffee experience offers a hands-on and immersive way to learn about Aruba’s coffee culture. It’s also the ideal place to enjoy locally-produced coffee if you are doing a walking tour or enjoying a ride on the streetcar.
Pepe Margo Rum and Gin Distillery
Located a short walk from the cruise terminal is the Pepe Margo Rum and Gin Distillery. A guided tour of the craft distillery teaches about the entire rum production process—from sourcing the finest sugarcane to bottling the final product. You’ll also learn about the art of choosing local botanicals to create tasty gins.
You can also try some of their signature drinks at the small distillery in downtown Oranjestad. There is also a trolley stop beside the distillery if you want to include it in a free DIY streetcar excursion around the city.
Aloe vera factory and museum tour
Touring the aloe vera factory and museum is a way to learn about this fascinating plant. The factory is a 10-minute taxi ride from the cruise terminal. During the tour, you’ll learn about harvesting this medicinal desert plant. You get to see the harvesting and production process used to create this natural, healing gel.
Not many people know that Aruba was one of the world’s largest exporters of Aloe Vera. At some point, two-thirds of the island was covered in aloe plants. You can buy Aruba Aloe Vera products at the shop, which are said to be some of the finest and purest aloe gel in the world.
Aloe-based products are renowned for their anti-inflammatory properties. So, buying some aloe vera gel might be what you need if you’ve got sunburn in the hot, arid climate of Aruba.
How to Spend a Cruise Day in Aruba
Suppose you want to escape the cruise terminal and enjoy fun activities in Aruba’s countryside or warm Caribbean waters. In that case, plenty of cruise line shore excursions and independent tour operators offer swimming, snorkeling, safari, and cave exploration adventures.
Aruba Atlantis Submarine
The Aruba Atlantis Submarine Expedition lets you explore the stunning coral reef in the crystal-clear waters around the island. In the certified submarine, you descend 130 feet (40 meters) underwater. At the bottom of the sea floor, you can marvel at the beautiful marine life and vibrant coral reefs without getting wet.
The Atlantis submarine tour leaves from the Renaissance Marina and lasts just under two hours. Therefore, you have plenty of time to explore Oranjestad’s historical attractions, ride the free trolley, or go shopping in the Aruba flea market.
Island Ultimate Jeep Safari
One of the most adventurous shore excursions on Aruba is an off-road 4WD adventure. The Island Ultimate Jeep Safari lets you explore the beautiful island. You drive through the rugged terrain of Arikok National Park or the island’s northeastern shores. On the ATV safari, you visit some of the island’s most remote and stunning attractions.
Some attractions that may be included in the shore excursion are:
- California Lighthouse
- Gold Mill Ruins
- Snorkeling and swimming opportunities
- Natural pools
- Relaxing at a secluded beach
- Authentic homemade barbecue lunch
Please note that if the excursion involves Arikok National Park, you must pay an additional entrance fee of $15 per person, which is not included in the tour price.
Spend the day at Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba
One of the most luxurious ways to spend a day in Aruba is to relax at the exclusive Renaissance Wind Creek. Renaissance Island is a 40-acre (0.16 sq km) private island with stunning beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and lush vegetation. A day pass gives you access to the famous Flamingo Beach, private cabanas, shaded hammocks, and resort facilities.
It’s good to note that access to the island is only through the Marriott-owned Renaissance Wind Creek Resort. A complimentary water taxi takes you from the Renaissance Marina to the private island. Other attractions on the island include the following:
- Swimming alongside flamingos
- Relaxing on the tranquil Iguana Beach
- Various watersports, including paddleboarding, snorkeling, sailing, and kayaking
- Beachfront massages in Spa Cove
- Cocktails at the Mangrove Beach Bar
- Nature walks and hiking trails
Relax for the day at De Palm Island all-inclusive resort
You can enjoy a luxurious cruise day with a day pass to the all-inclusive De Palm Island Resort. The cost of the pass to the secluded island includes the ferry, lunch buffet, open bar, snorkel equipment, water park and slides, ziplining, and banana boat rides. You can unwind and enjoy stunning views of the Caribbean from a private cabana and concierge service.
De Palm Island is a private island resort, a 5-minute ferry ride from Port De Palm Island and 6 miles (9.6 km) from Oranjestad. With the Underwater Sea Trek excursion, you can dive into the crystal-clear waters surrounding the island and immerse yourself in a world of wonder and beauty.
One of the beauties of De Palm Island is the native flock of flamingos. Depending on the package, you can enjoy close-up encounters with the graceful birds from a private beach cabana.
If you want to unwind and have a stress-free day in Aruba, check out De Palm Island for relaxation and fun in the Caribbean sun.
Underwater sea trek excursion at De Palm Island
The sea trek excursion at De Palm Island is an unforgettable underwater adventure. Suitable for swimmers and non-swimmers, you walk on the sea bed 20 ft. (6 m) below the surface. A specially designed helmet and constant oxygen supply give you a scuba diving-like experience. Get up close to colorful tropical fish and a sunken bus.
The Sea Trek and SNUBA—a hybrid of snorkeling and scuba diving— excursions are available only as add-ons to the day pass entry fee to De Palm Island.
Snorkeling or scuba diving
Snorkeling or scuba diving is one of the best ways to explore the stunning coral reefs in Aruba. Reefs are relatively close to many sandy beaches on the island’s west coast. Many beach resorts or clubs hire snorkeling equipment for you to explore the nearby coral reefs. You can also book a boat or catamaran excursion that includes the best snorkeling spots.
If you have a scuba diving license, several sites offer excellent opportunities to explore the deep ocean floor. You can explore colorful coral reefs or shipwrecks.
Here are three of the best snorkeling beaches in Aruba:
- Mangel Halto: The reef at Mangel Halto Beach is shallow and has a variety of marine life, including sponges, anemones, and gorgonians. You may see stingrays, grunts, sergeant majors, and other colorful fish. The taxi ride is 20 minutes southeast of the cruise port.
- Boca Catalina Beach: Located on the island’s northern tip, this snorkeling paradise offers calm, shallow waters. Tropical fish in the reef include parrot fish, sergeant major, surgeonfish, and starfish. The travel time to the snorkeling point is 20 minutes from the cruise terminal.
- Arashi Beach: Located on Aruba’s northwest coast, the snorkeling spot is known for its calm, clear turquoise waters and vibrant marine life. The water has excellent visibility, making spotting diverse marine species and beautiful corals easier.
Visit the Antilla Shipwreck: The largest shipwreck dive in the Caribbean
One of the best diving experiences in Aruba is exploring the Antilla Shipwreck. The sunken SS Antilla lies just off the coast in Malmok Bay, up to 60 ft. (18 m) below the surface. Diving to the ocean floor lets you explore its massive hull, machinery, and cargo holds. However, storm damage means some parts are dangerous to enter.
While diving at the shipwreck site, you can observe diverse marine life, including colorful coral formations, sponges, and schools of tropical fish. Sea turtles, lobsters, moray eels, and blue tang are common in the wreck.
Several tour operators also offer catamaran snorkeling and diving excursions from the Aruba Cruise Terminal to Catalina and Malmok Bays. These boat excursions may include the following:
- Open bar and snacks onboard
- Snorkeling gear
- Two or three snorkel stops
- Caribbean buffet lunch
- Use of a seabob (sea scooter) to dive to the wreck faster
- Instructions
Kite Surfing at Hadicurari Beach
Hadicurari Beach is the go-to location if you want an adrenaline-pumping kitesurfing experience. Malmok Bay enjoys consistent trade winds and crystal-clear waters, making it ideal for kitesurfing. This kitesurfing hotspot offers adventure enthusiasts of all levels the opportunity to experience the thrill of gliding across the sea.
Suppose you’ve never tried kitesurfing before. In that case, you can get lessons from experienced surfers. You can learn the basics of kite surfing, including launching, steering, and riding the waves. If you are an experienced kite surfer, you’ll love soaring over the sea and getting stunning views of the coastline and the Aruban landscape.
Hadicurari Beach is just over 5 miles (8 km) from the Aruba Cruise Terminal.
Tour Aruba’s natural bridges
The natural bridges on the island’s northeastern coast are stunning natural wonders. The fascinating rock formations have been carved out by the mighty waves of the Caribbean Sea over thousands of years. Unfortunately, Aruba’s most famous natural bridge collapsed in 2005. However, island excursions still stop off to view its ruins.
Thankfully, several other natural bridges still exist and are worth visiting. These include the following:
- Baby Bridge: Next to the original natural bridge is the Baby Bridge at Andicuri Bay.
- Indjueq Natural Triple Bridge: Located at Blackstone Beach, this natural wonder has three support sections and rugged basalt rock formations.
- Seroe Colorado Bridge: Located on the island’s southeastern point, the natural bridge is a hidden gem due to the short hike required to reach it.
- Wariruri Natural Bridge: The original natural bridge is nearby, and Wariruri Bridge is a common viewpoint on island tours, mountain bike excursions, and horseback riding tours.
California Lighthouse
The California Lighthouse stands tall at the northern tip of Aruba. The top of the lighthouse gives you breathtaking 360° views of landmarks on the island. On a clear day, you can see Venezuela. The lighthouse symbolizes Aruba’s rich maritime history and commitment to safety at sea.
Visiting the California Lighthouse is usually included in many island tours available from the Aruba Cruise Terminal.
Visit the Donkey Sanctuary
The Santa Cruz Donkey Sanctuary is one of the most unusual but rewarding ways to spend a cruise day on Aruba. Located 6 miles (9.6 km) from Oranjestad, this sanctuary cares for the island’s donkeys, which nearly became extinct in the 1970s. There are over 130 donkeys at the sanctuary.
Admission to the Donkey Sanctuary is free, and you can participate in donkey feeding. You can have a cuddle-and-hug session with one of these gentle creatures for a donation of any size. It’s a fun and memorable experience that is perfect for families with children.
Explore caves
Exploring caves is one of the most fascinating shore excursions in Aruba. Two stunning cave systems are in the Arikok National Park—Fontein Cave and Quadirikiri Cave.
Fontein Cave: Aruba’s most famous cave system is the Fontein Cave. This limestone cave features ancient Arawak Indian petroglyphs dating back thousands of years. As you venture into the depths of the cave, you will be impressed with the different rock shapes and tree roots growing underground.
Quadirikiri Cave: The other fascinating cave system to explore in Arikok National Park is Quadirikiri Cave. This cave has two underground chambers, with sunlight penetrating the holes in the cave’s ceiling. The caves extend for 100 ft. (30 m) and are home to a colony of harmless bats.
Tour historic gold mines
Visiting abandoned gold mines in Aruba gives you a glimpse into the island’s gold mining past. The historic gold mine at Miralamar operated during the gold rush era in the 19th century. Now, all that’s left are a few freestanding walls. However, guided tours provide more information about the history of gold mining in Aruba.
In addition to the gold mine, you can visit the Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins further up the coast. This place used to process ore from the gold mine, eventually producing more than 3 million pounds of gold from the island. There’s not much to see in the ruins, but you get fantastic views of the Caribbean Sea.
Day excursion in Arikok National Park
Spending a cruise day in Arikok National Park lets you experience Aruba’s arid, rugged landscape. Attractions in the park may include any of the following:
- Conchi Natural Pool
- Fontein and Quadirikiri Caves
- Hiking the rugged terrain at Cunucu Arikok
- Swimming and snorkeling
- Off-road ATV safari
- Horseback riding
- Lunch
You can check out what local tour operators offer in specific shore excursions to choose the one that best suits your requirements.
Wine tasting tour at the Alto Vista Winery
The Alto Vista Winery is located 7 miles (11 km) from the cruise terminal. Touring this charming winery lets you learn about vineyards and winemaking traditions in Aruba. You get to walk through vineyards and discover how wine and rum are made. At the end, you get to sample five local wines.
As you sip your wine, you can enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding vineyards and countryside. The winery’s peaceful atmosphere provides the perfect opportunity to relax after a busy cruise day before heading back to the port.
Animal shore excursions in Aruba
Aruba Butterfly Farm: This enchanting, educational experience lets you see butterflies in their native tropical environment. You get to observe the various stages of their life cycle—from egg to caterpillar to chrysalis and, finally, butterfly. The farm is located 4 miles (6.4 km) north of the Cruise Terminal, beside the Bubali Bird Sanctuary.
Philip’s Animal Garden: This attraction for animal lovers of all ages is located 7 miles (11 km) from the Cruise Port, near the Alto Vista Winery. The sanctuary is home to a diverse array of exotic animals from around the world. These include playful monkeys, colorful parrots, large snakes, peacocks, toucans, jaguars, and alpacas.
Birdwatching and Photography Tour: The Bubali Bird Sanctuary is the perfect location to observe tropical birds in their native habitat. Located beside Palm Beach, the sanctuary is home to over 80 species of birds. You can observe herons, coots, pelicans, and other seabirds. Other guided tours take you on a tour of the island to the best spots to see native Caribbean birds.
Aruba Ostrich Farm: Located 6 miles (9.6 km) from the Cruise Port, the ostrich farm is home to over 80 birds, including ostriches and emus. On a guided tour, you learn about the life cycle of ostriches, from egg to adulthood. You’ll be able to feed and interact with these large and curious birds. The farm also has a bar, restaurant, and great views of Aruba’s north coast.
Best Beaches in Aruba
Aruba has some of the best beaches in the Caribbean, and most are a short taxi ride from the Cruise Terminal.
Eagle Beach
Eagle Beach is considered one of the best beaches in Aruba and the entire Caribbean. The wide stretch of beach has soft, white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The beach has some beach huts, shaded areas, and private cabanas for hire. The waters are shallow and relatively calm.
Activities at Eagle Beach include snorkeling, volleyball, paddleboarding, and swimming. Private beach clubs also have facilities to make your beach day even more relaxing.
Palm Beach
Palm Beach, located just north of Eagle Beach in Aruba, is a great place to visit for an active beach break. It’s a stunning beach with pristine white sand and crystal-clear azure waters. It’s ideal for relaxing on a sunbed, swimming in the warm Caribbean Sea, or snorkeling through coral reefs.
Additionally, plenty of clubs, restaurants, and water sports rental places are on the beachfront. This gives you ideal opportunities to participate in water sports and enjoy delicious local cuisine and tropical cocktails.
Baby Beach
Baby Beach on the island’s southernmost point is perfect for families with small children to enjoy a beach break. The crescent-shaped beach boasts shallow, calm waters, making it one of the safest beaches in Aruba. There is also a coral reef near the cove—perfect for safe snorkeling.
Baby Beach has a distinctive, family-friendly atmosphere. Facilities at the beach include snorkel and dive gear rentals, restaurants serving grilled food, and cabanas to escape the Caribbean sunshine.
Arashi Beach
Arashi Beach is a picturesque Caribbean stretch of stunning white sand, crystal-blue water, and palm trees. It is a perfect location for swimming, snorkeling, or unwinding under one of the well-kept public palapas. Additionally, you can find showers, beach chairs, and a beachfront bar.
Arashi Beach is also near the California Lighthouse, Sasariwichi Dunes, and viewpoints on the island’s northernmost tip. The beach is 0.4 miles (0.6 km) long and has facilities for changing, kitesurfing, swimming, scuba diving, snorkeling, and hiking.
Surfside Beach
Surfside Beach is the closest public beach to the cruise ship terminal in Aruba. It’s only a 5-minute drive or about a 30-minute walk (approximately 1.2 miles or 2 km) away. This narrow strip features sugary-white sand and crystal-clear waters, framed by Kwihi trees along the shore. Here, you can relax under the shade of these trees and soak in the breathtaking Caribbean views.
Amenities at Surfside Beach include beach chairs, umbrellas, a beachfront grill and bar, restrooms, and outdoor showers. It also has facilities for paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling. It’s also beside the airport, making it ideal for plane spotting.
Best private beaches in Aruba
While Aruba is known for its stunning public beaches, you can enjoy a secluded, private beach experience. Some public beaches are in secluded locations and provide plenty of privacy if you want to escape the crowds. The best private beaches on the island are the following:
- Renaissance Island Beach
- Flamingo Beach on Renaissance Island
- De Palm Island Beach
- Mangel Halto Beach is a public beach in a secluded location
- Santo Largo Beach is a remote beach on the island’s northern coast
- Druif Beach is a lesser-known beach with palapas, beach chairs, and few—if any—cruise ship passengers.
Aruba Cruise Port: FAQs
Is it safe to explore Aruba on your own as a cruise passenger?
Aruba is generally safe for cruise passengers to explore on their own. The capital city of Oranjestad is clean, organized, and welcoming. Public transportation and taxis are readily available, making it easy to navigate the island independently. Aruba’s crime rate is one of the lowest in the Caribbean.
What is the currency used in Aruba?
The currency used in Aruba is the Aruban Florin (AWG). However, you can use US dollars, as they are widely accepted in most tourist areas. It is recommended to have some cash in florins for smaller purchases or tipping.
What is the primary language spoken in Aruba?
Dutch is the official language of Aruba. However, most locals speak English, and you should have no problem communicating. Additionally, most people speak Papiamento—an Afro-Portuguese Creole language.
What is the weather like in Aruba?
Aruba enjoys a hot, semi-arid climate with minimal seasonal temperature variation. Expect hot summers and warm winters, accompanied by scant rainfall. Since the island lies outside the Caribbean hurricane belt, it is an ideal cruise destination year-round.
When is the best time to visit Aruba for a cruise vacation?
The best time to visit Aruba for a cruise vacation is during the dry season, which typically runs from mid-January to May. This period offers sunny weather, minimal rainfall, and warm temperatures, making it ideal for beach activities and exploring the island. Although it’s not in the hurricane belt, seasonal storms can affect the weather between October and early January.
What are the best souvenirs to take home from Aruba?
When shopping in Aruba, be sure to pick up souvenirs such as locally made handicrafts, Dutch Delft, Cuban cigars, and Dutch cheeses. Also popular are Aruba sand jewelry, Mopa Mopa wooden object art decorating, and locally-produced rum or gin.
Related articles:
_at_Eagle_Beach,_Aruba_2019.jpg){kind=link}