Oranjestad Travel Guide

Tourist Guide
Oranjestad
A popular cruise ship stop-off, Aruba’s brightly colored capital is filled with modern shops, upscale restaurants and colonial-era buildings.

Oranjestad is a small and cheery capital with candy-colored Dutch architecture. Every day, large cruise ships pull into its port and hundreds of passengers flood its street. Oranjestad has plenty of tourist-oriented offerings to keep visitors entertained. Splurge in the malls and diverse shops, stroll the sunny waterfront boulevard and explore its past at interesting museums.

Prior to the arrival of European explorers, Oranjestad was just a small fishing outpost used by the Arawak Indians. Spanish explorers arrived in the late 15th century and it was later colonized by the Dutch in the mid-17th century. With the exception of a brief British interlude, it has remained under Dutch control to this day.

Delve into the past at Fort Zoutman, the oldest building on the island. This defensive fortress was built in 1798 and was designed to protect the city from pirates. Be sure to see the Willem III Tower, once a lighthouse, and the Historical Museum, which houses a permanent exhibit tracing the history of the island. For a look at the island’s pre-colonial history, stop by the National Archaeological Museum of Aruba.

Take a walk down the waterfront L.G. Smith Boulevard, where shops, restaurants and busy marinas dominate the scene. Just a few blocks inland, Main Street offers more shopping opportunities, with everything from independent boutiques to internationally recognized luxury brands. For a shopping experience with more local flavor, go to the Flea Market near the harbor, where locals barter at open-air kiosks selling everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to fish.

Recharge at the Queen Wilhelmina Park, where manicured lawns look out over fishing boats bobbing in the water. Nearby beaches, including Druif Beach and Manchebo Beach are good for sunbathing and swimming. Wait until evening to check out the elegant Town Hall, also known as Stadhuis, which is lit up after dark.

Oranjestad is located on the south coast of Aruba. Make use of the city’s free tram system to get around. It runs from the cruise terminal through the downtown area. Hop on and off as often as you please.

Where to stay in Oranjestad

Eagle Beach which includes a beach as well as a small group of people

Eagle Beach

While visiting Eagle Beach, you might make a stop by sights like Eagle Beach and Bubali Bird Sanctuary.

Eagle Beach
Default Image

Cunucu Abao

While there might not be top attractions in Cunucu Abao, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Eagle Beach and Divi Golf and Beach Resort.

Cunucu Abao
Default Image

Bushiri

When in Bushiri, you can plan a visit to Eagle Beach and Divi Golf and Beach Resort, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Bushiri
Default Image

Hato

While Hato isn't home to many top sights, Eagle Beach and Aruba Aloe Museum are some notable places to visit nearby.

Hato
Default Image

Socotoro

Though Socotoro may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Royal Plaza Mall and Renaissance Mall Aruba.

Socotoro
National Archaeological Museum Aruba showing art

Rancho

If you're spending some time in Rancho, Royal Plaza Mall and National Archaeological Museum Aruba are top sights worth seeing.

Rancho
Eagle Aruba Resort
Eagle Aruba Resort
3.5 out of 5
J. E. Irausquin Boulevard 248, Oranjestad
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is NZ$519 per night from 1 May to 2 May
NZ$519
per night
1 May - 2 May
Stay at this beach hotel in Oranjestad. Enjoy free parking, 3 outdoor pools, and 2 restaurants. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (2,690 reviews)
"We only stayed for one night while waiting for our alternative stay accomodations from another resort to open up. It's a well kept resort, the room was beautiful. I probably wouldn't stay with my family for a whole week, it felt like a good party space but not what I'd want for a long family stay. ..."

Reviewed on 27 Apr. 2024

Eagle Aruba Resort
Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort
Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort
4.5 out of 5
L G Smith Boulevard 82, Oranjestad
The price is NZ$957 per night from 6 May to 7 May
NZ$957
per night
6 May - 7 May
Stay at this luxury resort in Oranjestad. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 3 outdoor pools. Our guests praise the pool and the restaurant in our reviews. Popular ...
9/10 Wonderful! (1,243 reviews)
"The property was clean and great service"

Reviewed on 20 Apr. 2024

Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort
Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusive
Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusive
4 out of 5
J E Irausquin Boulevard 41, Oranjestad
Stay at this 4-star beach property in Oranjestad. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our ...
9/10 Wonderful! (1,110 reviews)
"This is our new vacation getaway! We love this place thank you for making this a memorable forever vacation destination. See you guys next year!"

Reviewed on 23 Apr. 2024

Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusive
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Privada Boutique by Privada Stays
Privada Boutique by Privada Stays
3 out of 5
Pos Abao 10, Oranjestad
Stay at this 3-star aparthotel in Oranjestad. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and private pools. Popular attractions Eagle Beach and Divi Golf and Beach Resort ...
10/10 Exceptional! (25 reviews)
"Stay was 10/10"

Reviewed on 22 Apr. 2024

Privada Boutique by Privada Stays
Harbour House
Harbour House
4 out of 5
2 Weststraat, Oranjestad
Stay at this 4-star condo in Oranjestad. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and private pools. Popular attractions Eagle Beach and Renaissance Mall Aruba are located ...
9/10 Wonderful! (14 reviews)
"We did have an ant problem"

Reviewed on 5 Apr. 2024

Harbour House
Punto di Oro Residences
Punto di Oro Residences
2.5 out of 5
Tanki Leendert 121-K, Oranjestad
Stay at this aparthotel in Oranjestad. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an area shuttle. Popular attractions Eagle Beach and Aruba Town Hall are located nearby. ...
7.8/10 Good! (181 reviews)
"The hosts are super hosts, any issue is resolved right away! Very friendly and easy to approach"

Reviewed on 18 Apr. 2024

Punto di Oro Residences
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit

Activities

Cities near Oranjestad