Welcome to Aruba, the crown jewel of the Southern Caribbean and a destination affectionately known as "One Happy Island." This arid, sun-drenched paradise, a proud member of the ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao), is a study in delightful contrasts. On one side, a dramatic, desert-like landscape of cacti and rugged formations awaits the adventurous explorer. On the other, the tranquil western coast is a postcard-perfect vision of powdery white-sand beaches and calm, turquoise waters.
This unique blend of natural beauty and Dutch heritage offers a compelling day ashore for every type of cruiser, from the sun worshipper to the urban explorer. Zipsea is here to help navigate this incredible island with confidence, offering insider tips and a breakdown of the best ways to make the most of every moment.
Your Arrival at the Port
A port day in Aruba begins the moment a ship pulls into the Oranjestad cruise port. The experience is immediately welcoming, as the Aruba Cruise Terminal is a modern and well-equipped facility. Unlike some other ports with multiple, far-flung terminals, all three of Aruba's docks share the same modern cruise facilities, ensuring a consistent and straightforward disembarkation process for all visitors.
The most significant advantage of the Aruba port is its prime location. Situated on the northern side of downtown Oranjestad, the port is exceptionally walkable. This is a crucial detail for cruisers, as it means the city's heart is just a five- to ten-minute stroll away, depending on the specific dock. This direct, step-off-the-ship access to the capital is a major departure from many other destinations where a taxi or shuttle is necessary to reach the main city center.
Once travelers step into the terminal, they will find a welcoming, air-conditioned space offering a variety of amenities. These include restrooms, a Port-of-call Center for tourist information, and shops selling a wide array of goods, from local handicrafts and souvenirs to Dutch delicacies and Delft items. An ATM is also located within the terminal, dispensing both American dollars and the local Aruban florin.
Accessibility Notes: Navigating the Port and Beyond
Aruba has made significant efforts to ensure a welcoming experience for travelers with mobility needs. Within the Aruba Cruise Terminal, the facilities offer wheelchair and step-free accessibility, providing a smooth path from the ship to the port exit. However, navigating the island beyond the port requires some advance planning.
Important: While wheelchair-accessible vans and taxis are available at the port, the supply of these specialized vehicles can be limited. It is highly recommended that travelers with mobility needs book accessible transportation and tours well in advance, even weeks or months ahead of their trip.
Your Day, Your Way: Top Adventures & Excursions
Aruba is a playground of options, from budget-friendly walks through the capital to thrilling off-road adventures. The island's compact size and diverse landscape mean that a wide variety of experiences are accessible, allowing travelers to tailor their day to their unique interests and budget.
The Walkable Wonders: Free & Low-Cost Adventures
One of the most appealing aspects of a port day in Aruba is the ability to have a rich, immersive experience without spending a dollar on transportation. The port's direct connection to downtown Oranjestad makes it incredibly easy to start a self-guided walking tour.
- Free Streetcar/Trolley: Provides complimentary narrated transportation in a loop from the cruise terminal to downtown. Operates daily 10 AM - 5 PM (except Sundays).
- Renaissance Mall & Marketplace: Browse for deals and duty-free shopping within walking distance.
- Archaeological Museum: Free entry to explore Aruba's indigenous history and culture.
- Aruba Aloe Museum: Complimentary tour of this major local industry with unique souvenir opportunities.
- Wilhelmina Park: Features a dedicated play area for kids, offering shaded respite from the tropical sun.
Beachy Keen: Sun, Sand & Sea
Aruba is world-renowned for its pristine beaches, and choosing the right one depends entirely on the desired atmosphere. A taxi or the local bus system is the best way to get to most of them.
- Eagle Beach: Consistently ranked as one of the best beaches in the world, perfect for families with its powdery white sand and calm waters. Home to the island's most photographed Fofoti trees.
- Baby Beach: Located on the southern tip, this shallow, sheltered lagoon is ideal for families and beginner snorkelers with knee- to waist-deep water.
- Palm Beach: The island's hub of activity, lined with high-rise hotels and offering watersports including banana boat rides, paddleboarding, and kayaking.
- Mangel Halto & Surfside Beach: For a quieter, more local experience. Mangel Halto is great for snorkeling, while Surfside is family-friendly with shallow waters.
Splash-Tastic Escapes: Resorts & Waterparks
For cruisers who prefer a full-day, all-inclusive experience, Aruba offers several resort and private island day passes.
De Palm Island: All-inclusive private coral reef island
- • Walk-in: $109 adults/teens, $94 children (3-9)
- • With transportation: $129 adults/teens, $109 children
- • Includes: lunch buffet, open bar, snorkel gear, banana boat rides
- • Features: kids' waterpark, splash park, flamingo encounters (with cabana)
- • Tip: Bring water shoes for the rocky coral shores
RIU Palace: Day passes from $162 adults, $80 children, with access to Palm Beach and swim-up bar
Beyond the Port: Must-Do Excursions
- Arikok National Park: Explore rugged landscapes, ancient caves, and the Natural Pool. Jeep/ATV tours from $89-$99 per person, or rent a Jeep for $299 (8 hours, up to 5 people).
- Submarine Tours: Atlantis Submarine explores two wrecks up to 130 feet below surface for about $120 per person.
- Catamaran & Sailing Cruises: Snorkel cruises from $69 per person, dinner cruises from $155 per person.
- Animal Sanctuaries: Philip's Animal Garden and the Aruba Donkey Sanctuary (free entry, $1 to feed donkeys).
Ready to Explore Aruba?
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Find Caribbean CruisesSip & Savor: A Taste of Aruban Life
A visit to Aruba is incomplete without indulging in its diverse and flavorful culinary scene. Aruban cuisine is a tasty mix of flavors, spices, and herbs, and its dishes often reflect the island's rich colonial past.
Traditional Dishes & Local Libations
Must-Try Dishes:
- • Keshi Yena: National dish - cheese ball stuffed with spiced meat
- • Pastechi: Flaky, deep-fried pastry with cheese, meat, or seafood
- • Pan Bati: Sweet, fluffy cornbread perfect with stews
Signature Drinks:
- • Aruba Ariba: Bold cocktail with rum, vodka, and local liqueur
- • Balashi Beer: Local beer brewed with desalinated water
- • Awa di Lamunchi: Refreshing lime water (non-alcoholic)
Dining Near the Port
- Driftwood: Downtown Oranjestad, known for fresh seafood with an "Aruban touch" in a rustic driftwood dining room.
- Pinchos Grill & Bar: Over-water dining on a pier with ideal sunset views.
- El Gaucho: Famous for charcoal-grilled Argentinean steaks.
For the Whole Crew: Aruba with Kids
Aruba is a destination that is exceptionally welcoming to families, with a wide range of activities that appeal to all ages. Many of the city's key attractions are within walking distance of the port, which saves both time and money on transportation, an important consideration for families with small children.
- Best Beaches for Kids: Baby Beach and Eagle Beach offer calm, shallow waters safe for little ones.
- Butterfly Farm: Interactive learning about dozens of butterfly species.
- Animal Sanctuaries: Philip's Animal Garden and Aruba Donkey Sanctuary (free entry) offer responsible animal interactions.
- Free Museums: Aruba Aloe Museum (complimentary tour) and Archaeological Museum showcase island history and culture.
Weather Essentials: What to Expect
Aruba enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, making it a reliable destination regardless of the season. A significant point of reassurance for travelers is that Aruba is located below the main hurricane belt, which means the risk of major storms is low.
Sargassum Seaweed Alert (March-October):
Seaweed can affect eastern and southern shores during these months. The popular west-coast beaches (Eagle Beach, Palm Beach) are typically unaffected, making them your best bet during peak sargassum season.
The Zipsea Survival Guide: Insider Tips & Essentials
Money & Moolah: Navigating the Currency
Aruba's local currency is the florin (AWG), but the U.S. dollar is widely accepted everywhere, eliminating the need to exchange money for most purchases. While credit cards are accepted at most major establishments, cash is essential for smaller vendors, local markets, and especially for taxis and tipping.
Local Etiquette: Tipping & Phrases
Tipping Guidelines:
- • Restaurants: 10-15% service charge often added; add 5-10% cash for exceptional service
- • Taxi drivers: 10-15% of fare
- • Tour guides: 10-20% for excellent tours
Getting Around: Quick Guide
| Transportation Type | Cost | Convenience | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Free Streetcar | Free | Excellent | Narrated downtown loop, passes major sites, 10 AM-5 PM (not Sundays) |
| Arubus (Bus) | $2.60 one-way, $15 day pass | Good | Budget-friendly, terminal across from port, reaches popular beaches |
| Taxis | Starts at $7.00 | Excellent | Most convenient for beaches and Arikok National Park, fixed rates |
Staying Safe, Staying Savvy
Aruba is considered one of the safest destinations in the Caribbean, with a low violent crime rate and a local government that works to protect both residents and tourists. The main tourist areas are regularly patrolled by police, providing a sense of security. It is safe to walk after dark in most well-lit, populated areas.
Important Safety Note:
Aruba's tap water comes from a reverse-osmosis plant and is completely safe to drink - a significant advantage for travelers!
Scooter Warning:
Renting scooters is generally not recommended due to safety concerns related to traffic. Stick to taxis or the local bus service for safer transportation.
Plan Your Perfect Aruba Port Day
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Browse Caribbean CruisesBefore You Sail Away
A day in Aruba offers a remarkable variety of experiences, from historic city strolls and tranquil beach escapes to thrilling off-road adventures. The island's unique blend of Dutch charm and Caribbean flair, combined with its prime port location, empowers travelers to explore with confidence.
With a little planning, whether you choose a laid-back day on a serene beach, an adventurous trip into the rugged interior, or a deep dive into the local culture, your day here will be the perfect highlight of your cruise. With Zipsea, every port is an adventure waiting to happen.