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Top 50 things to do and attractions in Oranjestad
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Wanderlog staff
Updated • updatedOct 4, 2025
Updated • updatedOct 4, 2025
Many of us love traveling on the Wanderlog team, so naturally we’re always on the hunt to find the most popular spots anytime we travel somewhere new. With favorites like Eagle Beach, Donkey Sanctuary Aruba, and National Archaeological Museum Aruba and more, get ready to experience the best places in Oranjestad.
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We scoured through the internet and read through 29 reputable sites and blogs like The Culture Trip and Lonely Planet. We gathered all the results in one place and ranked them by how many times they were mentioned so you know you're getting the best of the best. Just look for the "mentioned by" tags on each place like these: 
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Other best of categories in Oranjestad
Restaurants
Attractions
Cafes
Cheap eats
Breakfast and brunch
Bakeries
Family restaurants
Museums
Shopping
Mentioned on
Eagle Beach, the widest beach in Aruba, is a true gem that captivates visitors with its stunning natural beauty. With its soft white sands gently meeting the vibrant blue waters of the Caribbean, this picturesque destination offers a secure swimming area and ample parking for convenience. Guests can enjoy shaded picnic spots and charming thatched huts while engaging in various motorized water sports.
Wildlife rescue service
Nature & Parks
Animal rescue service
Nature preserve
Donkey Sanctuary Aruba, established in 1997, is a non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing and caring for over 130 injured and mistreated donkeys on the island. These animals were once used as primary transportation but are now provided with a safe haven where they receive nurturing and rehabilitation. Visitors have the opportunity to participate in feeding and caring for the donkeys or simply observe them while enjoying refreshments on the covered porch.
Very fun experience visiting and feeding the animals. We saw the donkeys, peacocks and chickens all gathering around for food. The donkeys were gentle and never bit us even when hand feeding. Only 3 dollars for a large bag of feed or 1 for a small so its budget friendly. Otherwise its free to come and explore and see the creatures.
Zachariah W — Google review
We absolutely loved the donkey sanctuary. It’s a little hidden but there are signs that lead to the sanctuary. Watch your steps as you might step in poop. They are a super friendly staff and very easy going. You can purchase feed there for a small amount of money or you can bring your own carrots and feed the donkeys. They have kittens available for adoption as well. Bathrooms have toilet and running water with soap to wash your hands after feeding. The donkeys are very sweet and friendly and will let you pet them. They do a really good job with these animals. I recommend checking it out!
You can park and walk in through the donkey pin to the visitor center where there are toilets, a gift shop, a place to sit and little buckets of food you can buy to feed the donkeys. The food is $1 for a small scoop and $3 for a bigger scoop. When feeding the donkeys you stay behind a barrier for your safety, but otherwise you can walk around and check them out up close. My kid got to hug one. We also enjoyed the peafowl and kitties. They have cats for adoption.
I fell in love with the donkeys. Most are so well behaved. They are hysterical trying to get your attention. They "smile", they have the cutest expressions on there faces as they tilt their heads. Most are incredibly gentle when taking the food from you.
They have "pellet" food to buy $3 USD for a large & $1 USD for a small. They have a gift shop also where i bought stickers & a T shirt. All money helps support the sanctuary.
I also brought a bag of apples that a cut up & fed to the donkeys. The donkeys really enjoy apples & carrots.
Overall I had a great time and would do it again!
A fun place for the whole family, that's a "must-see" in Aruba. And the best part is, it's free. There are dozens of donkeys 🫏 freeling wondering the compound and you are able to interact with them. There is also a visitor center where you can buy a snack, a drink, a coffee mug, a tee shirt, or make a donation. And funds go to support the refuge. This is the kind of place your kids will love regardless of their age!
This place is a gem! It is so relaxed and delightful. The donkeys are lovely and gentle. They’re so happy if you bring carrots to feed them! (Fred them only from the porch, so they don’t swarm you outside!)
There are peacocks and roosters roaming around, and lots of kittens! You can visit anytime during opening hours and hang out with the donkeys as you wish, no formal tours or time slots needed. It’s totally free to visit as well! Definitely the most relaxed animal encounter I’ve ever been to, with donkeys that seem very happy and healthy. Would highly recommend a visit if you’re in Aruba!
This was my first time visiting the Donkey Sanctuary, and I really enjoyed it! Feeding the donkeys was such a fun experience they’re very friendly and gentle. It’s definitely a must-do when in Aruba. Just a little tip: watch your step since there are droppings around, and wear comfortable shoes. Also, bring a few dollars for donations and to buy food for the donkeys it’s well worth it.
What a great place to feed the goats and the peacocks. The feeds were super affordable at $3 a bucket and you do get a lot of feeds in the bucket. We did buy the feeds bucket and also did bring some carrots for them to eat as well. The goats and peacocks did come to eat. I got a video of the rooster jump on the feed buckets for sale to eat, which was entertaining to watch.
Bringamosa 2-Z, Santa Cruz, Aruba•
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Archaeological museum
Museums
Specialty Museums
The National Archaeological Museum Aruba is located in a historic Dutch Colonial building complex that was once the home of the Ecury family. It offers a deep dive into Aruba's past with artifacts dating back 5,000 years, showcasing the Amerindian culture that thrived on the island long before European settlers arrived. The museum's collection includes over 10,000 pieces from three distinct periods of Indigenous history: Pre-Ceramic (2500 B.C.E.-1000 C.E.
The museum has a nice history of the island of Aruba and its context to the colonization of the western hemisphere. Lots of interactive displays and artifacts.
$5 suggested donation entry fee
There is an elevator to access the upper floor.
Doug D — Google review
Cool museum that goes into the history of Aruba’s people and land. It won’t take up your whole day. Maybe max 90 minutes or 2 hours. If you want to learn a bit more about Aruba, then do stop by.
Cute little museum worth a drop in if you're around, not to go out of your way. It's free but asks for a donation, which can only be given in cash.
There is quite a bit of interesting information about Aruban history all the way back to early civilization.
Cute little museum. Loved the hut, artifacts, history of the Aruba island and the cave with fake water.
Off the beaten path but worth the trek to understand the history of Aruba. Free admission but donations are always appreciated and help to keep the exhibit up to date.
This is a suggested donation museum. The displays are translated to English. There are many archaeological artifacts to see. My favourite part of the visit was the exhibit about Queen Hortense and the decibels. It just so happened that I watched the documentary about calypso music and Queen Hortense showed up. I was so pleased to meet her and we talked a bit about Trinidadian calypso. I can't wait to follow up on her music. Beautiful costumes and headpieces were also on display.
Great experience! It's a very nice museum, very well kept and catering to people of different ages and levels of interest.
Definitely worth a visit for all interested in learning a bit more about life in the island before the influx of mass tourism.
We visited here on Monday. This place is big with 2 stories. You can’t beat the price ’Free’. They do ask for a donation of $10, but it is just a recommendation. Really enjoyed it. The building has A/C and restrooms.
Schelpstraat 42, Oranjestad, Aruba•
Museum
Store
The Aruba Aloe Factory Museum and Store, located in Hato, offers free educational tours and features a gift shop in a beautiful setting. Visitors can join guided tours led by native Aruba Aloe tour guides, available in multiple languages throughout the day. The tours provide insight into the domestication of the aloe plant and the manufacturing processes behind aloe-based skin care products.
We visited Aruba Aloe Factory on a Monday at about 1:33pm. My wife and I took the tour and it was very interesting. The tour guide was very informative and had a lot of humor. He made it fun and was always open for any questions (tour is free). We bought a couple of the products from the store and you can tell immediately on the level of comfort on our sunburned skin. Yes...we were sunburned. I highly recommend getting the Hydrating Aloe Rich Sunscreen (SPF 50+). We also bought the After Sun Extra Cooling Lotion and it felt amazing on our skin. Definitely a nice little visit. We were there for about 40 minutes. So if you have time...take a visit. You will not regret it.
W ( — Google review
Small but cute place and the tour was free. Gives some history and you’ll learn some thing’s. The guy giving the tour had an attitude when I approached him to ask about the tour. He then gave a great explanation and was upbeat during the tour. You get to go upstairs and see the workers. It’s interesting. Of course you shop and they have special deals. The bathroom was clean.
We had a nice tour with JC who was very friendly. He told us a lot about the history of aloe on the island and how the aloe is processed. We got to try lots of products and the cashier provided helpful information. The bathrooms were nice; it was very much appreciated. It's worth a stop, especially for a free tour if you like historical info.
Aruba Aloe Factory was a cool stop. The short presentation/demonstration on aloe processing, usage, and history was unique and knowledgeable. You can walk through the factory which was super cool too. Would recommend when in Aruba.
Our airbnb shower featured products from here so we were super excited to come. We toured the facility and purchased a bunch of stuff right after. I love the products so far!
Very interesting talk about the aloe plant. Products are found all over the island for the same price. Again, this was part of our bus tour and it was our first visit to Aruba.
A must-visit in Aruba! 🇦🇼🌿 The Aruba Aloe Factory & Museum offers a free tour that’s both educational and inspiring. You’ll learn about aloe cultivation, sustainable practices, and the company’s deep loyalty to their staff—plus they’ve even earned a Dutch quality seal! 🇳🇱
🌱 You can sample products along the way, then end in the gift shop where you can score a free gift by joining the VIP club. Honestly, I wish I had brought an empty suitcase just for the deals and high-quality products—they’re that good!
📸 Don’t miss the aloe fields and cute photo spots! This place is a gem, and it's clear they’re doing meaningful work for both their team and the environment.
I wanted to stop, but I wasn't sure if my boys (20 & 11) would enjoy it. We all found it enjoyable, and were excited to pick something out in the gift shop to take home. Our tour guide was energetic & very knowledgeable.
National park
Nature & Parks
Visitor center
Parks
Arikok National Park, located on the east coast of Aruba, is a geologically diverse natural area that offers hiking, historic caves, and beach access. Covering about 20% of the island, it boasts an abundance of cacti and limestone caves to explore. The park is home to various wildlife such as snakes, lizards, and parakeets. Visitors can also witness nesting turtles in Boca Prins.
We were so excited to finally visit this place. We explored the trails in our rented jeep, made it to the natural pool and all I can say is WOW!
The environment in general was spectacular as were the views. It was a bit tricky traversing the trails but we had experience, if you’re not comfortable using 4 wheel drive you can take an excursion guided tour. The flexibility of having the trail riding experience was awesome, we did the pool, caves, visited the beaches and exited the park at the wind mill entrance. What a beautiful place and must do when visiting Aruba.
Jay C — Google review
The scenery is beautiful. But it is not any better than the rest of the gorgeous coastline of the northeast Aruba outside of the "National Park", yet one has to pay an entry fee of $22/person (!). Compare it to the real National Parks in the US where one pays a similar amount for a car, regardless of how many people are in that car. On top of that, unless one rents a 4WD, they will charge you an arm and a leg to drive you to the Natural Pool, because they haven't built any decent road there. And the staff is very unfriendly, and there is nothing to see in the Visitor Center, and points of interest are not well marked, and... yes, they want you to hire a guide and pay more. A tourist trap.
Cute little park great to drive around with the car (you need a jeep if you want to go to the remove beach). Very challenging but very funny to drive if you like off road. Visit the caves …. The beaches on the ocean side (no swim allowed due to rip currents and potentially big waves).
Highly recommend.
Pleasantly surprised at how much of the park we could enjoy with a small rental car (not 4x4). Some areas of park are restricted to 4x4s, but we drove main road from visitor center to Dos Playa, caves, and then out the south entrance.
What an amazing place! So well maintained, the staff is helpful. Take their recommendations wisely for what kind of vehicle you are using there. If visiting by regular car go slow over the drain divots! So much to see. If you want to go to the beach you will need a 4x4. There are many places to pull off for a view.
Věry beautiful place. The best idea Is to take a Jeep, because you Are not allowed to visit all places in this park with regular car.
Do not forget to take a map in a visitor center. One adult ticker Is 22usd And you can pay with card.
Loved this park! So different from the developed part of Aruba. Staff was so friendly and nice too. We took a tour in an all terrain vehicle. You would be limited if driving in a regular car.
Spent a whole day exploring Arikok. Rent a capable off roader (I did a Suzuki Jimny) and go explore the untamed parts of Aruba. It's well worth the day away from the beach.
San Fuego 70, Santa Cruz, Aruba•
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Nature & Parks
Nature & Wildlife Areas
Farms
The Butterfly Farm Aruba is a nature sanctuary where visitors can immerse themselves in a rainforest-like enclosure filled with hundreds of colorful butterflies. The experience offers guided tours through a tropical paradise, complete with fragrant flowers, lush trees, waterfalls, and serene ponds. Guests can learn about the lifecycles of butterflies and observe spectacular species from around the world. Additionally, they have the opportunity to purchase butterfly-related souvenirs to commemorate their visit to this natural haven.
My husband and I came to Aruba for our honeymoon. We were recommended the Butterfly farm. The staff are incredibly friendly and approachable. As we walked around, a staff member approached us and offered a tour. She was very knowledgeable, super nice and was happy to answer questions. On tour, we saw the entire life cycle of the butterfly (starting with the eggs on the plants, we were able to touch the caterpillars, they have many stations for the cocoons/ chrysalises and of course the adult butterflies). She also showed us the different types of species of butterflies/moths and explained some really cool facts about feeding, breeding, life span etc. Super informative!
We would recommend going when it opens at 8:30. It wasn’t super busy and not too warm! The boutique is super cute. We got a few souvenirs. They also offer you a ticket that allows you to come back for free (it’s valid for a one time visit and good for up to a month). They also have a small cafe with drinks so you can feel refreshed too. Would highly recommend! :)
Vanessa J — Google review
I had a great experience at the Butterfly Farm yesterday! It was such a cute little spot. They had a little cafe to grab a coffee/smoothie/drink and a gift shop. The garden was beautiful- it was amazing seeing all of the butterflies flying around!! Josh did an awesome job as our tour guide- he really knows his stuff! Very informative and loved his energy. Thanks for a great experience!
Don't hesitate to try this place! Such a fun and amazing experience. Its so beautiful inside, it is small but still worth the visit. The tour guide is very educational about the butterfly's life cycle. The gift shop is cute as well. Theres a nice patio before you enter where you can hang out and watch the birds play in the bird bath if you'd like before or after the butterfly experience.
Your ticket includes revisits and we definitely intend to come back during our stay here in Aruba.
My wife and I came on Wednesday at 1:00pm. It was a nice little butterfly farm. We enjoyed walking around and taking pictures of all the different butterflies. There are different sitting areas around the farm. So you can sit and enjoy watching the butterflies fly around you. The entrance fee was 19 dollars per adult. You can buy yourself a smoothie before going in because it gets hot inside. There is also a cute souvenir store at the entrance.
Stopped here on morning while on my trip to Aruba; it's stunning. Something so "zen" and absolutely beautiful here, the colors, feeling of peace. Tour guide (which wasn't very long 15-30min) was a young guy, super knowledgeable, enthusiastic and entertaining!bought a banana/rum shake of some kind on my way, it was great👌. Highly recommend! Worth the stop!
Great for the kids! Guide was very knowledgeable and the family and I learned a lot from the many species they had. Tickets when bought allows you to return all year of you plan to go multiple times.
Which I know you won't but nice to know!
My husband and I visited this wonderful little butterfly farm and spent an hour or two. Very much worth the visit and price of admission. We were given a mini tour with a very informative guide. A lovely gift shop is on site with beautiful handmade butterfly inspired jewelry.
Also you pay once and can return as many times as you like while on vacation.
I’ve been to many other butterfly exhibits (Calloway Gardens, Butchart Gardens, Brookside Gardens) but this was even better. So many butterflies in a beautiful setting with lots of flowers and pond. The pond has fish and a little waterfall. I even went back a second day. It is hot so go early to be a little cooler.
People are very nice too.
J.E. Irausquin Blvd, Noord, Aruba•
Nature & Parks
Gardens
Parks
Wilhelmina Park is a lively location in Palm Beach Plaza known for its heady cocktails and vibrant nightlife. It offers a variety of drinks, including the sizzling mango jalapeno mojito and the Pink Iguana. Nearby, Governors Bay Beach provides a quiet spot for a quick swim with clear shallow water and shady trees. The park itself features a marble statue of Queen Wilhelmina surrounded by tropical gardens, paying homage to the longest-reigning Dutch monarch.
Shopping mall
Shopping
When visiting Aruba, don't miss out on exploring the vibrant shopping scene in downtown Oranjestad. Royal Plaza Mall stands out with its charming Dutch-influenced architecture and a colorful atmosphere. The mall offers a diverse range of stores, from popular mid-range brands to local shops selling unique Aruban jewelry. Venture upstairs for stunning views of the Caribbean Sea, perfect for capturing memorable photos. This modern and stylish shopping center caters to those seeking a premium shopping experience.
The exterior construction/ facade reminds me of the Sheraton Moana Surfrider property in Waikiki... old English accents... royal/regal themed... easy to access via walking from the cruise ship port...
Goodkine — Google review
Good variety of shops. Lots of helpful people. Prices are a bit on the salty side. No surprise there. This is a hot spot for the cruise ships after all. But you should still check it out and take advantage of meeting some wonderful people and a new culture.
Beautiful for a souvenir photo - made solely for tourists. I came there at 17:45 and all shops were already closed even though my cruise ship was docked till late evening. Nonetheless made nice photos.
Great area to walk around and see the influence of the Dutch architecture but the vibrant colors that are used in the Caribbean. Also a very good place for a few hours of walking around shooting pictures and of course souvenir shopping. Then go to one of the many restaurants and get some lunch and a Caribbean drink.
Very nice mall with many shops. Well decorated for the seasons. Very large Starbucks with very good refreshments. Free WiFi and places to sit to check your emails.
Lots of little shops, most of them have the same stuff. Cruise ships come here so it can get quite busy, but it's a good place to blow a couple of hours and grab some lunch. Some of the shops have handmade stuff that makes it possible to get a one of a kind. The bus station is here which makes getting here easy.
Fun mix of stores, both real life and tourist type. 2nd floor restaurants with a street view are great for people watching. We ate at Mojitos, which was great, and shopped at DelSol, Cariloha and Los Tres Reyes, all of which had a nice selection of items that werent shotglasses and tourist tee shirts. Plus the architecture gets you in the island mood. Luckily we were there when only 1 ship was in port, so it wasnt crazy busy.
Beautiful building, but most of it is closed for renovations.
Lloyd G. Smith Blvd 94, Oranjestad, Aruba•
Shopping mall
Nestled in Oranjestad, Aruba, the Renaissance Mall is a luxurious haven for fashion enthusiasts. Its Main Street boasts an array of charming shops and boutiques that blend global trends with local treasures. The mall offers a revival of high-end shopping, entertainment, and dining experiences. Visitors can explore two locations featuring luxury brands like Louis Vuitton and Gucci at the Mall while indulging in relaxation at the Okeanos Spa.
Upscale mall with all the luxury shopping you could ask for. Beautiful layout and in the heart of everything. The best part to me is the location makes it easy to shop luxury brands and walk across and down the street to shop local booths as well as store fronts. I went from Gucci to local shops to the I Love Aruba store for souvenirs with ease. Highly recommend!
Golden H — Google review
Nice mall with high end stores but is on the smaller side. It has an absolutely beautiful water feature that is fed directly by water from the sea!! It is also connected to a high end(?) hotel. The design is overall very beautiful. Met a nice security gentleman who gave us tips on other places to explore.
Cool mall. Had nice souvenir shops and I got my 1st tat there
Amazing mall and hotel. Finest shops and small boutiques in the middle of town. Really cool water taxi that goes into the lobby and back out. So cool!
Not bad
My first visit to Aruba. I fell in love with the place and the people! Shopping was fun but the beauty was almost overwhelming. I definitely plan to return again. #LocalGuide #LetsGuide
High-end mall with top designers. Also have the Windcreek casino here.
A nice mall, with a lot of luxurious shops.
Lloyd G. Smith Blvd 82, Oranjestad, Aruba•
Mentioned on
Natural Pool, also known as "Conchi," is a secluded swimming spot in Aruba that's only accessible by off-road vehicles, horseback, or hiking. Tucked away on the rugged northeast coast of the island, this hidden gem is surrounded by volcanic rock formations and offers crystal-clear waters for swimming and snorkeling. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the area while taking a refreshing dip in the tranquil pool.
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11Main St
Mentioned on
Main St is a vibrant and bustling thoroughfare that serves as the heart of the city. Lined with charming shops, cozy cafes, and historic buildings, it's a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The street offers a diverse range of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants serving international cuisine. Visitors can explore art galleries, boutique stores, and local markets while taking in the lively atmosphere.
affordable
Restaurant
Located near the Oranjestad port, West Deck is a popular spot to unwind and take in stunning views of boats on the calm Caribbean waters. Originally named for its location on West 7th Street (7 Weststraat), this restaurant is renowned for its reasonably priced gourmet-inspired menu, a rarity in a tourist hub like Oranjestad. Guests can savor one of the seven seafood-inspired dishes during lunch, such as fresh fish.
✨ On my vacation to Aruba, I visited this seafood restaurant and it was absolutely amazing! The food was delicious, and the place is set right in front of a breathtaking ocean view. The best part? While your food is being prepared, you can actually jump into the water and relax. Such a unique experience! Highly recommended! 🌊🍴🐟
Basit N — Google review
This was out 3rd visit to West Deck.
Views are always absolutely stunning. Great spot to catch a romantic sunset pic. Or just enjoy the views while you dine.
The food is so delicious and drinks are spot on.
This time Pierce was our waiter and he made our visit to fun.
He recommended some dishes that definitely did not disappoint.
Every time we’re in Aruba this is a must stop!
I tried to get photos but my family destroyed the food! We decided to get a bunch of appetizers and try everything. The Garlic shrimp 10/10! The wings cooked perfectly. My son got his naked 9.5/10. The mahi-mahi was our least favorite I would say a 6/10. It needed more seasoning. The calamari was cooked very well and no fishy taste.9/10. My son got a full rack of ribs and he did “the fat boy dance” the entire time he ate. He said a 20/10. I had the fried chicken sandwich. It was a little blan at first but the brought us pickled onions and it went from a 5/10 to an 8.5. The coconut shrimp I was told was delicious and a 9/10. I don’t eat coconut. The key lime pie and the Oreo cheesecake 🤯 delicious!!!!
Stumbled upon the West Deck after a day of air travel and it exceeded our expectations. Yummy wings and some of the most perfectly cooked shrimp cocktail I’ve ever had. We tried the local dish keshi yena (chicken and gouda), which was to die for. Staff was extremely kind and accommodating, especially our server, Chantal who made us a list of recommendations when we told her it was our first time to the island. Highly recommend if you’re looking for a casual, island vibe.
West Deck had decent food with an amazing ambiance. The restaurant is directly on the beach. The service was good too. During our visit they had live music. Overall great vibes.
Came here for lunch when I first came to Aruba. It’s a nice restaurant and right on the beach. The ceviche was so bomb and fresh but the big chunks were huge . The food and customer service was sooo good we’re going back before we leave.
West Deck is always my first stop upon landing from the airport. The food is delicious and I especially appreciate that they offer authentic local hot sauce, which adds a delightful kick to my meal. Get ready to enjoy beautiful views of the ocean that make for a perfect dining experience. The prices are reasonable compared to the hotel area of the island. I highly recommend this spot for anyone looking to enjoy local Arubian food!
The food was great. Our server Joanne was very friendly and made our dinner much more enjoyable. Catch of the day and ley lime pie were delicious. Outstanding service! Will definitely go back.
Lloyd G. Smith Blvd, Oranjestad, Aruba•
Nature & Parks
Geologic Formations
Ayo Rock Formations, located northeast of Hooiberg in Aruba, is a tranquil and awe-inspiring site with massive diorite boulders. The area was once considered sacred by the Arawak people, who left petroglyphs on the rocks. Modern pathways allow visitors to explore this ancient site and appreciate Aruba's unique flora and fauna.
Free parking and free entry. You can view some ancient rock drawings and walk along a path leading through large tonalite boulders on an outcrop. There is one tricky spot to get through where you need to get through a narrow opening requiring you have to keep your head low and step up a bit higher to proceed towards the exit.
Jo G — Google review
Impressive rock formation and cacti park🌵 - which are truly native to Aruba! There are a few little hills where you can climb to see the view from the top: an old inactive volcano and landscaping around. Some cool lizards on the rock too… We went here through ABC tour -highly recommended !
Free. Amazing experience if you like history and nature. Beautiful spot. We were the only people there. There is a rock with a blue fence around it that has pictograms in it from ~1092 AD. Also very cool to climb between the large rocks. There is a path but its a bit tricky to get through unless you climb on all fours and squeeze through some spaces. Would not recommend going all the way back if you have mobility issues. Can easily see the pictograms though with no climbing or squeezing required.
Absolutely beautiful!
Be sure to bring some water with as it’s hot and exposed to equatorial sun! :)
Free to all and very informative placards and signs. Good, solid bathrooms on site! 👍💪☮️⚒️
Come see massive rocks and Indian pictures in some of the caves. You may even encounter some goats along the way to the top. Take in the awe of some huge cactus growing right from the rocks!
This place was amazing, don't skip it. There is a trail you can follow or get off it and explore at your own risk. There are indigenous paintings. Take care of the cactuses, that you will also find all over the island. Entrance is free and there was no poeple when I went. Good place to have a small walk, take pictures or relax.
Great place to stop and explore. It's free to visit. Not recommended for people with walking issues.there is an easy path that doesn't go up into the rocks. Stairs lead in and out of the rocks. There is one spot that you need to crawl three feet to slide through the opening. Other than that, it's quite accessible. Worth the stop
Incredibly impressive, serene and awe inspiring. Feel very connected to the geological and indigenous history of Aruba.
Beach
Surfside Beach is a popular destination for families, offering a sandy shore, calm waters, and a playground. It's known for its cooling shade provided by local Kwihi trees and stunning sunsets. Visitors can enjoy activities like stand-up paddleboarding, canoeing, and kayaking. The beach is conveniently located near downtown Oranjestad and can be accessed via the linear park. Additionally, there are various dining options nearby.
Excellent place to grab some beach eats and drinks and watch some planes. It's immediately under the approach path for runway 11. The restaurant is priced really well, and the beach is shallow so you can walk out really far.
Jordan K — Google review
One of the best, most underrated beaches in Aruba for sure. They have a really nice restaurant right on the beach, and a bar too. The airport runway is right next to the beach too, so you can see airplanes arriving from around the world up close, and if you look back you can see them departing too!
In front of Talk of the town hotel, small beach, a lot of seeweed. Few spaces without. Restaurants and a bar. You can see airplanes landing at the left far end of the beach.
I spent almost everyday in Aruba at The Reflexions Beach Club. It’s a family friendly beach, but trust there’s never many kids running around. Cabanas are $27. Food about $20-30 and the lids menu has a nice variety. I felt sooo exclusive relaxed here. They walked my drink to the beach, served me fresh and well cooked meals, and never skimped on my alcohol.
If you want gorgeous waters, natural tree shade, & a calm place to snorkel, this is the best beach!!! We stopped by quite a few & this was our favorite!! There is also a restaurant for food & drinks!
Calm beach, not a lot of natural shade, lots of parking, you can rent chairs and umbrellas from nearby bar.
It's an ok beach. The sand is nice and the water is shallow, but the beach is small and the water is weedy. Planes fly overhead to land at the airport kind of like Sint Maarten but less dramatic and dangerous. Lots of parking. Two bar/restaurants right on the beach too.
Small but beautiful beach. Little bar at the end with lounge and umbrella rentals. Parking is close, water is clear. Coral is very visible and lots of boats in view (planes too). Additional pics of the beautiful pier we walked to get there. Multiple access points to get in the ocean. We heard lots of birds and saw many different flowers. We did not see any shower spots.
15Aruba
Aruba, a constituent country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands, is located in the southern Caribbean Sea, about 29 kilometers north of Venezuela. The island boasts breezy white-sand beaches and year-round balmy temperatures. Its capital and port town, Oranjestad, is famous for its colorful Dutch Colonial gingerbread houses painted in bright Caribbean hues. Aruba offers a diverse local seafood menu but also caters to those craving traditional American food.
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Island
Palm Island is a private island off the coast of Aruba, accessible only by boat. It features a resort, white-sand beaches, and various water sports activities. The island offers an all-inclusive day trip with unlimited buffet and open bar, snorkeling opportunities at its own coral reef, banana boat rides, beach volleyball, salsa lessons, and more.
Quiet, peaceful and beautiful. I got the upgrade to private seating by the flamingos which was definitely worth it. Private bar never had more than 1 person in line and there was a waitress if I wanted to stay in my chair.
MrFormido — Google review
We spent a whole day here with our group. It’s not the best place to swim because the shores are so rocky and pebbly but there are plenty of lounge chairs. Drinks and food were included as part of the package. There was a snack bar as well as a buffet where you could sit down and eat. There’s a water park and also a kids water park for the younger ones. If you wanted, you could also reserve the VIP area with the flamingos. They also have snorkeling and banana boat riding.
The food and drinks area needs better service, and the quality of both was just average. The island itself is quite small, and interacting with the flamingos comes at an additional cost. The beach is very rocky, so I recommend bringing water shoes. Overall, I found the attraction to be quite expensive for what it offers.
Was what we expected, lots of flamingos, coral island so coral beach, bring crocs or water shoes, buffet was ok, hamburger stand was ok, burgers were sub-par, definitely not ground beef. Most of the Staff was not happy to be working, little to no communication with the guests. Very few were interactive.. slide opened late but it did open eventually. Fee was $120 to get in. We parked at the ferry, no cost for that. Don't need to upgrade to see flamingos. Bana boat was fun, snorkeling was good. Drinks were included.. hope this helps someone
First and foremost it was very clean. The food was good and the buffet was enclosed in glass for those of us that like our food pest free. If you are looking for a pristine beach this isn't it. The beach is rocky and could use some sand but the water was great. The water slides and water obstacles are well maintained.
Easy 25 minute bus ride from the port. Nice air conditioned bus. Jose in bus 89 was great.
De Palm Island is a nice area to visit. It has plenty of attractions for all age groups, beautiful water along with flamingo and tortoises to entertain you.
Had a blast at De Palm Island with a group of 10 when we visited in July 2024. Not sure why others are complaining about as there is plenty to do in the several hours of all day fun. We came with De Palm Tours and was picked up from our resort in Noord and enjoyed a comfortable ride to and from the Island. The food was pretty good, we had burgers and a nacho style fries. Unlimited drinks of which we had cokes, pina coladas, and water. Ice cream is $6 and there are several things which cost extra but the included activities and amenities are more than enough.
We enjoyed snorkeling 3 times and our two boys both got to experience snorkeling. Our youngest, with a little convincing from parents went snorkeling for the first time. We were so proud of him. His only complaint was ,"why is the water salty?" 😂. The slides are great here especially the tallest one which includes a drop but had a height restriction of 48".
The banana boat was a highlight of the day as well. It was very fun and our group none of us fell off but you do get slightly wet.
Overall, a very fun day in the sun. 5 stars for De Palm Island and two thumbs up for a great day of family fun and making memories.
Not worth the money or hype. The island is very small and there are not enough perks to warrant the cost.
The food tastes below average, with the exception of the mash potatoes and fish fillets. Seriously, the food tastes bland and there is barely any variety. It's all low quality. Drinks are watered down but I guess that's expected. In short, this tastes like any other all-inclusive food you're probably familiar with.
The water park has only 3 slides. No floaties, no fun Jacuzzis or pools or anything like that. They do have a kid park though. There is a lack of activities here. They offered one salsa dance lesson from 2-2:30 but that was it. Some more activities would be great.
Snorkeling is what you make of it. The banana boat ride is pretty fun when you're with a group of people. However, they started this around 12pm opposed to the 10am start time that was advertised.
Ultimately, it's what you make of it. It can get boring quickly and a lot of people end up sitting by the beach side and napping.
Nature & Parks
Water park
Islands
De Palm Island is an offshore private island in Aruba that offers all-inclusive day trips with a variety of activities for visitors. Whether you opt for a full or half-day adventure, your entry fee covers access to numerous activities such as ziplining, salsa lessons, and banana boat rides. The island is just a short ferry ride away from the mainland and provides something for everyone in the family.
Worth the day trip. We enjoyed our day on the island. We just did regular, not the secluded/adult only area. That area has a fence around it and you can "be" with the flamingos, but you can also take pictures from the fence with the flamingos. The snorkeling was good, we saw plenty of beautiful fish. Lunch was really good, buffet style but you can have as much as you want; same for drinks (Liquor/Sodas/Juices). My hubby went down the water slides and enjoyed them all. We did the Salsa lesson as well and that was fun. The negatives are few: if you don't get there early, you wont get a hut. There is shade under the trees BUT the birds are there too, enough said. Servers don't come around, so you have to get your own drinks. Luckily we went on a day with no cruises, because it would've been over crowded I'm sure. Would've been nice if ice cream or snow cones would be included but you can pay for them (Cash Only)
Mia R — Google review
A picturesque day chilling with flamingos, clouds and sun. Don't forget you can enjoy snorkeling, snuba, scuba or just floating in the ocean. And when you get hungry there's an all you can eat buffet and grill station. Also stay hydrated with unlimited drinks for everyone age.
Very fun day at De Palm Island. Upgraded to premium seating so we could sit in the area with the Flamingos. It was a great experience. You can't feed or them. However they do get up close and personal.
We spent the entire day at De Palm Island. We must've picked a very great day because there wasn't a lot of people. They had many activities to do from snorkeling, laying on the beach, viewing the pelicans, and going on the banana boat. The food was good it's all you can eat so you can't complain. I enjoyed all the activities. I will say the only disappointment was the slide were closed due to construction, which wasn't told to us before hand. I was looking forward to sliding down the slide. Overall though it was a pleasant place to visit and definitely recommend for a adventure.
The more people you take with you the more fun you'll have. Don't go for the food bc we all know all inclusive food is never great. However the alcohol is pretty decent.
Over all it was a good experience but they still have some work to do.
Beach- very rocky and pretty much limited to a small cove.
Seating- plenty of shade, a few good spots under a tree.
Food- good options for all. Salad bar and fruits were great!
Transportation - pickup was 15-20 mins late.
Driver had a great personality & gave plenty of fun facts. Drive was roughly 25 mins from Marriott surf club to the port.
Take your reservation paper or email, they couldn't find me even though I had confirmed with the driver.
Drop off- this was a mess, they do not coordinate buses to hotels so anyone and everyone get on every bus. It took us almost an hr to get back to ours and must have been 8-10 stops. This could be reminded with a little coordination by them.
Snorkeling- was plentiful, the fish were out and flaunting their stuff!
Birds!!!!!! They do nothing to control the birds, they jump on your plate, in your drinks and simply a nuisance.
We wouldn't do it again but it was nice to do it once. Just a little pricey for the over all experience.
We had a great day at Palm Island and had a great time. The food was good, except I wish more of the activities were included in the price. However, we did pay for the SeaTreK, which was an incredible experience.
We visited De Palm Island during our honeymoon in Aruba, and unfortunately it was a major disappointment. The experience cost nearly $150 per person, and it simply wasn’t worth it. The island is tiny — you can literally walk from one end to the other in under a minute. For the price, we expected something special, but honestly, there are nicer water parks and beaches almost anywhere else.
The food was terrible. We tried the buffet, but after one bite, we both felt sick to our stomachs. The only redeeming part of the experience was the staff, who were genuinely kind and friendly. The bartenders were wonderful, but unfortunately the drinks themselves were not great — overly sugary, and the beer tasted watered down.
The beach area (unless you pay an additional few hundred dollars for a private cabana) was tiny, rocky, and uncomfortable, even with water shoes. It’s shocking that a place like this charges such a high price for what you get.
If you’re traveling with small children, they might enjoy the few water slides, but for adults looking for a relaxing, high-quality beach experience — this isn’t it. Save your money and go literally anywhere else on the island.
De Palm Island Ferry Terminal, De Palm Island Way, Aruba•
Chapel
Sights & Landmarks
Catholic church
Church
Sacred & Religious Sites
Alto Vista Chapel, located in Aruba, is a modest Catholic chapel offering an intimate space in an elevated desert landscape. It is the highest point on the island and provides stunning views of the ocean and a unique vantage point for watching the sunset. The chapel sits at an elevation of about 80 feet above sea level and offers panoramic views over Boca Prinsi, Eagle Beach, and Arikok National Park.
Started at Alto Vista Chapel which was very beautiful. I highly recommend coming early in the morning around 6-8am to avoid the ATVs as there are tons that come here as one of their attraction stops. I started at Alto Vista and completed the hike here that was about two hours. The hike consisted of walking the coastline which was absolutely beautiful and so calming. Highly recommend bringing lots of water as it is very hot and not much shade.
Shalon J — Google review
The church is in a gorgeous setting with the cacti as its background. You may go in and light a candle or sit on a bench for peaceful meditation. The inside of the church is absolutely stunning. A labyrinth is also available to walk quietly and peacefully through.
Beautiful chapel on top of the hill. There’s a small vendor selling fresh coconut water—definitely worth trying. The area is surrounded by cactus plants, which make for great photos.
The church is in a secluded location at the top of hill and is in beautiful setting. There is also peace labyrinth here. However, I would recommend visiting here only when you are tired of everything in the island
Absolutely a beautiful chapel that originated in the 1750s and was remodeled in 1950s. Outdoor seating for mass services, must be special during Christmas. Added to your list, worth seeing.
Such a lovey tiny chapel that we visited to lit a candle. The candle can be brought at the grocery. I find it interesting that this chapel was completed in 1952 and stands in the same location as the original chapel, which was built by Domingo Silvestre, the Venezuelan missionary from Santa Ana de Coro, Venezuela, in 1750.
It's a gorgeous little church. As you leave, the side of the road has the Lord's Prayer on traffic signs.
Really cool small chapel with lots of hiking places to go to!
Nature & Parks
Nature & Wildlife Areas
Farms
The Aruba Ostrich Farm is a unique outdoor experience where visitors can interact with around 80 ostriches. This prehistoric-like bird sanctuary offers the opportunity to feed these magnificent creatures, hold real ostrich eggs, and learn about their habits on a guided tour. In addition to ostriches, the farm is also home to emus, peacocks, ducks, roosters, and lizards.
Awesome experience! Guide was very knowledgeable and entertaining. You get an upclose experience with the Ostriches. In fact, you even get to hand feed them! Definitely one of the greater highlights of your trip!
Better Y — Google review
Neat and unique experience while on vacation in Aruba. The tour is informative and kid friendly! There is no shade like most places on the island so make sure you have adequate sun protection. The restaurant and cafe is worth a stop as well—they had unique options like ostrich eggs or ostrich meat. Unfortunately, they were out of those options when we were there, but it is a good marketing feature. There’s a beautiful view of the east side of the island as well. Absolutely recommend.
We had so much fun learning about the Ostriches & Emus. We were able to feed some for them which was a great experience. They all have names, and seem to know it, which personalized the experience even more.
Great experience, Great time, knowledgeable staff, good food & drink.
Would do it again!
So fun! My wife and I were the only ones on the tour and it was great! Very informative and our guide was super nice! Many different species of birds to see around the farm and we even got to feed some of the ostriches! Definitely worth stopping in on the way to or from the gold mill/natural bridge!
We really enjoyed visiting the farm. The ostriches were beautiful and our tour guide really educated us about them!
Check out the ostriches and emus on their tour. Mond sun protection as the 30-40 minute tour has limited shade on those hot days. Feed the birds for a photo op!
Such a great visit. Needed a break from just sitting on the beach so took the annual ride over to the natural bridge and passed this farm. Went on our way back from the bridge. It was educational and very interesting. Loved the birds. Worth the visit. Highly recommend. Fed the birds and learned a lot. Guided tour.
Had high expectations after reading the reviews but the tour was underwhelming. The ostriches were awesome and we enjoyed feeding them, but the tour itself was boring. The young lady in the gift shop could have cared less to help us. We wanted to order food but her attitude made us leave. Really wanted to love this place.
Matividiri 57, Paradera, Aruba•
Beach
Outdoor Activities
Mangel Halto is a secluded beach located in the rural town of Pos Chiquito, just 10 minutes from downtown Oranjestad. It is known for its calm and shallow waters, making it perfect for activities such as kayaking and snorkeling. The beach features a sun deck and is surrounded by a serene mangrove forest, providing a private and tranquil atmosphere.
Best snorkeling on Aruba! Fun fact: the little grass-topped stand are called palapas and are free to use (1st come, 1st served) throughout Aruba as all beaches are considered public property.
Jessica F — Google review
This beach contains majority of the scenic steps that enter the ocean. Beach also doesn't get too deep. Great for people who cant swim well and even better for children.
Our favorite beach in Aruba. The mangroves offer shaded spots you can sit in or leave your stuff to go swimming. The tide is gentle for the most part and the beach is expansive. There are some rocky parts and sandy parts as opposed to only rock beaches on some of the Aruban coast.
Absolutely beautiful!!
Easy access to snorkeling. Water is shallow, warm and very, very calm. Lots of birds and fishes. Perfect for little ones.
Loved it!! 😍 This is an interesting, incredible beach. Please know that there are two parts to this beach. One part has no landing beach area but has staircases to allow you into the water but if you either walk or drive to farther down the beach, you'll see a small building and a path that descends down to an area with about six palapasand a before of smooth rocks in an ankle-shallowpool of moving water that is absolutely 💯 % clear. You feel as if you are walking out into the ocean while small fish visit your ankles in the water. I actually laid down in the water and almost fell asleep while the calming waters eased by my body. Soothing, relaxing and the very best part....very few people are there! My speed and my style...enjoy before the secret is out of the bag!
Love this beach, very nice quiet and not very crowded. most tourists will not go here because there are not places to rent beach chairs and no sand. I think it’s a perfect place to snorkel and enjoy the beautiful water
Honestly, I found the Mangrove boring. Follow the road and go to this place in the photo. Some people just visit the mangrove and leave. This place in the photo is beautiful! One of the best places in Aruba to take photos. We walked through the mangrove. I fell in love.
Cool place with mangrove trees, sand, and trails.
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21Hooiberg
Mountain peak
Nature & Parks
Gardens
Geologic Formations
Mountains
Hooiberg, also known as Haystack Mountain, is a volcanic formation located near Oranjestad in Aruba. It stands at 541 feet above sea level and offers a distinctive hiking experience with its nearly perfect conical form. The hike involves climbing 587 steps past tall cacti and thorn bushes to reach the summit.
Awesome volcanic hike, but was a bit of a challenge. Steep steps and half the steps didn’t have a railing. Take care going up and down, especially if it’s raining/rained or if the steps have sand/dirt.
The view is worth it though!!!!!
Nicole W — Google review
A workout in a burst of 16-20 min. Definitely gets you sweaty doing it in late morning, but the panoramic views from the top is well worth it. There are chalk marks every 25+ steps, not sure if accurate as it says 600 near the finish.
Stairs, stairs, stairs,...and more stairs. The total of 589 concrete steps. No special shoes needed, you will be on concrete all the way to the top. Nice views from the top, a couple of goats and lizards, but one star down for trash being everywhere. Undeveloped parking available at the trailhead.
Concrete steps for the entire climb and handrails on only part of the climb. Was a difficult climb with 589 steps but was worth it. We were able to see some goats on the climb. At the very top the view is towards the south and west but the close east beach is not really visible as there is a lot of cactus that block the view. Worth it if you like the exercise and climb. The parking is just a dirt lot near the bottom you will see green and white steps to start the climb.
Short but steep hike on stairs to the top of hooiberg. View is nice on top, but no so special. Nice activity if you are tired of lying on the beach all day..
A must-do in Aruba!
Hooiberg is the perfect morning hike—short but rewarding. The climb up the steps is a great workout, and at the top you’re treated to sweeping 360° views of the island. Sunrise is absolutely magical here as the whole island lights up in gold and pink. And if you’re lucky, you may even spot a few goats along the way, which adds to the charm. A peaceful, energizing start to the day—highly recommend!
587 step climb to the top! It was a nice change of scenery (pun intended) from the beach. Bring water- as it seems fairly simple but those steps are STEEP.
Plenty of places for a rest on the way up and beautiful few. Apparently on a clear day you can see all the way to Venezuela - but we weren’t able to.
Second half of the climb was a little rough on these old legs but we made it to the top! Concrete stairs have recently been redone and are very sturdy. Views from the top are great!
Tour agency
Tour operator
Tourist information center
De Palm Tours Aruba, located in Oranjestad, offers a variety of ocean-based tours and water sports activities. One of their popular options is the Palm Pleasure Snorkel Adventure, which takes visitors to top snorkeling spots like Catalina Bay and Arashi Reef via sailboat. Meanwhile, Aruba Heli Tours provides unforgettable experiences by taking guests on helicopter rides over the island's stunning landscapes.
We had a great time on the jeep tour. Our guide Luis was great, he was fun and informative. We went to the national park to see the caves and a stop at baby beach for swimming and snorkeling. We had a fun tour of the island and would definitely go again.
Farrah M — Google review
Coolest tour! My daughter loves sea turtles and seeing one was her one wish for vacation. The catamaran and snorkeling tour was perfect for what we were looking for. We met a really nice family from Brazil and spent a lot of time chatting with them. The three different stops were so cool and such different experiences. I suggest using the life vest, especially if you’re not a strong swimmer! I did not wear it, but the water was slightly rough and the currents were strong. I think my kids would have struggled without the life jackets! We got some great videos of the turtles, fish, and ship wreck. The crew was funny, knowledgeable, and helpful and the music was awesome! I even used Shazam and added some of the music to my Apple Music library! We will definitely return on our next trip to Aruba! Thank you!
Private Luxury Catamaran Sunset Sail – De Palm Tours Aruba
My wife and I booked the Private Luxury Catamaran Sunset Sail for $1,800 with transportation included from Secrets Baby Beach in San Nicolas to the De Palm Pier in Noord. The drive was about an hour each way, but everything started great — our driver was on time, and when we arrived, Captain Marcos and Osmar greeted us warmly.
The catamaran was beautiful, the open bar and food were great, and the music selection was perfect (though you can barely hear it from the front deck). Osmar went above and beyond — taking photos, serving drinks, and making sure we enjoyed every minute.
The only issue came at the end. After the sail, we waited about 30 minutes for our ride back, and instead of private transportation, they sent a bus with 30 other people. That part felt disappointing after paying for a private experience.
Overall, I’d still recommend this tour — the crew and the catamaran were fantastic, but double-check your return transportation so your luxury experience ends as smoothly as it starts.
Had a wonderful tour! Booked through Celebrity Cruise on 11/5… had no cash to tip Servio and I think Joe on the off road tour…. Please let me know if there’s a way I can send a tip.
Was in Aruba for a conference and took a national park and UTV tour with De Palm Tours Aruba. It was an excellent experience. Our tour guide Willie was an awesome host. There were three (3) key stops, time for a restroom stop and to get souvenirs. An Awesome experience in Aruba
Had the most incredible time during the UTV and snorkeling tour. My husband and I learned so much about Aruba and the stops on the tour were awesome! Our guides truly made the trip unforgettable. In addition to the beautiful island, Rudolph and DJ were great. Thanks so much for a great end to our honeymoon!!
We did a snorkel trip (left from the de palm pier in palm beach area) and stopped at 3 places to snorkel, had light snacks and a yummy lunch while onboard. Great crew! Even with impending rain and a windy day,
It was worth the money and a great experience!
We took a tour during our honeymoon in Aruba & it was great. This tour highlighted the features of the island, it was fun, & we had FANTASTIC Tour Guides… Rudolf & Jeff. They were so fun & really made it a top notch experience! Also, shout out to Bon Bini, the store at the Natural Bridge & their little beef empanadas… So Good!!
L.G. Smith Boulevard 142, Oranjestad, Aruba•
Tour agency
Souvenir store
Tour operator
Embark on an unforgettable underwater adventure with the Atlantis Submarine Aruba Expedition. This unique experience allows you to explore the mesmerizing marine life of Aruba without getting wet. Whether you choose to descend in the submarine or opt for the semi-sub, both options promise incredible views of fish, sea turtles, coral, and even shipwrecks. The expedition is perfect for those who may not be comfortable with scuba diving or snorkeling, making it a family-friendly activity.
This was an awesome tour. We boarded a ferry that took us out to the submarine. After boarding we immediately start seeing the beauty beneath the surface. Many species of fish swam freely around the sub. As we dove down to 140feet we saw shipwrecks, the reef, and lots more beautiful ocean creatures!!!
Kevin K — Google review
Such a fun experience. Water was a little cloudy today, but even so we saw lots of colorful fish and can now say we have been in a sub!
This was a neat little excursion. It’s 2 hours ( 1 hour of travel time to and from the sub on a ferry, and around 1 hour on the submarine. The water seemed cloudy the day we went so visibility wasn’t as good as I hoped for. We saw several ship wrecks, a turtle, and some rays in addition to other fish. The tour guide was nice and I enjoyed his commentary.
If it's your first time here in aruba, do it. It's unique, fun, and informational. We saw plenty of fish, coral, sting rays and even a sea turtle!
I went on this trip during our honeymoon and it exceeded my expectations! I had a tour at 1pm so the water was bright and clear. They brought us by a couple shipwrecks as we decended amongst coral reefs and schools of fish. The view was breathtaking and we will cherish the memories. The crew made an effort to turn around at the major viewing sights of the reef and shipwrecks so both sides of the submarine got a good look at the beauty of Aruba's ocean. My wife also really liked how on the boat stopped on the way to the submarine and let us watch as a plane flew directly over us coming in for a landing. I highly recommend this tour and it's a great way to explore the ocean while getting out of the direct sunlight for a couple hours.
Shout out to Francis, Eric and Donald. Our captin and crew were very knowledgeable in Marine Biology and they history of the island!
5 star! Absolutely amazing experience from start to finish. Boat ride is a bonus. Highly recommend to anyone in Aruba. Saw two sunken ships and lots of fish. Memorable moment!
one of the best experience in my life. transport to the submarine with the boat, great crew that are teying to help
Awesome !!! Great staff & captains !! We really had an amazing time under the sea
L.G. Smith Blvd 82, Oranjestad, Aruba•
Tour agency
Discover the authentic heart of Oranjestad, Aruba with the Aruba Downtown Walking & Food Tours. Led by local experts, this 2.5-hour excursion takes you through 30 sites in downtown Oranjestad, offering insights into the island's rich history and culture. Highlights include visits to monuments, museums, local tastings for food enthusiasts, quick shopping stops and opportunities to mingle with locals. The tour also provides plenty of photo opportunities along the way.
Fun tour of many of the historic and notable sights in downtown. Our guide Wendle was nothing if not kind, knowledgeable, and personable. I think he would have sat and talked with our group all day about anything we'd wanted to talk about if that had been possible. Wear good walking shoes, bring water (& snacks if you're prone to getting peckish), and settle in for facts, figures, and a healthy dose of philosophy as well. Masha danki, Wendle!
Nick B — Google review
What a terrible experience. I would never book with this company again. I am pretty sure it is fraudulent organization. My party of 14 had the hardest time trying to initially book reservations on the website. We were eventually able to break up the party and book on two different days about a week before a trip. When we arrived in Aruba we found that they had booked two of our group on a the day we were flying in which makes no sense. Then the remaining half of the group showed up and was never picked up. We later found there was no tour on one of the days we booked and were told it was a technical glitch on the site and that they would accommodate them for the next tour. After spending a lot of time on the phone they said they could accommodate the group. After being picked up and brought to the tour starting location they then tell us they are unable to accommodate our whole group. We asked for a refund for everyone and were told it would only be a partial refund and they left us stranded downtown. What a horrible time.
Wendle's knowledge of his island and compassion for people were the highlights of this tour. His joy and pride shone through as he told stories of Aruba's history and walked the streets of Oranjestad, a seemingly local celebrity. Highly recommend as a great and informative way to begin a vacation on the island!
I've been in Aruba 3 times but I still fall in love with this Aruba island with endless white sand beach🤩💝😘
Great tour with Beach (the guide). Was easy walk to each location. Food, information and a little history was great. We didn’t leave hungry either. Posted the meeting sign as for us it wasn’t obvious until we found it
Probably one of my favorite tours. All the food and drinks were delicious and our tour guide, Beach, was such a nice person. We would absolutely recommend!!
Fantastic 2.5 hour walking tour of downtown Oranjestad. Our tour guide, Mark, was a wealth of knowledge providing insight into the history of the island and the people. We toured many historic buildings I probably wouldn't have seen on my own. I thoroughly enjoyed this tour and would recommend to anyone to quickly learn more about this beautiful island.
This walking tour surpassed all my expectations. Our tour guide "Beach" was extremely knowledgeable of not only the History of Aruba but of the Caribbean in General. He answered with a ton of knowledge, questions about local politics, economy and just about everything else we could throw at him. He also recommended places to eat and visit.
Zoutmanstraat 1, Oranjestad, Aruba•
Festival
When cruising to Aruba, be sure to experience the vibrant Bon Bini Festival, held every Tuesday evening. This lively celebration offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in Aruban culture through traditional dances, captivating local art displays, and enchanting folklore. It's an unforgettable way to connect with the island's rich heritage while enjoying a festive atmosphere!
A great cultural dance and music show. No big crowds. Cool venue in the old fort. Awesome to learn about the history and culture of Aruba. Highly recommend for all visitors to the island.
Brittany H — Google review
We loved everything about this festival! From the fact that it was inside the old fort, to the food they served at a great price, to the local vendors, to the music and dancers!! It was a wonderful production that gave some history of Aruba, some glimpses into the culture and tradition, and a lot of fun and good energy! If you are in Aruba on a Tuesday evening, GO TO THIS SHOW!! You will not be disappointed!! I'll definitely go again!!
Great value for money if you are at all interested in learning more about Aruban culture and history (especially after a day at the beach / pool). It is a show not a festival, but 10/10 would recommend.
(Translated by Google) Entertaining. Lots of information about the island's history and culture.
(Original)
Entretenido. Mucha información respecto a la historia y cultura de la isla
A must see if you are in Aruba for a few days. Tuesday only.
No festival for the month of October 2025 but there is no information stating this.
GX97+4P3, Museo Arubano, Zoutmanstraat, Oranjestad, Aruba•
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affordable
Portuguese restaurant
Restaurant
Gostoso Restaurant, located in the bustling Oranjestad neighborhood, is a cozy eatery that brings a taste of Portuguese cuisine to Aruba. The chef and owner, Jose Do Nascimento, draws inspiration from his Portuguese roots to curate a menu filled with fresh and flavorful dishes. The restaurant's name, which means 'palatable' in Portuguese, truly reflects its offerings.
THE EXPERIENCE:
The feeling of being invited into the owner’s home and being treated in a manner that makes your feel welcomed, and appreciated. The atmosphere is calm and relaxed with eclectic ornamentations.
Service is on the proverbial “island time”; a nice reminder it’s okay to slow things down to enjoy the company you keep. If you’re seeking a quick service dinner, this wouldn’t align.
From my observations, It’s evident the owner takes immense pride in his food and the customer experience~ for that, the wait was well worth it. We observed him engaging with guests, reviewing specials, taking and running orders.
THE FOOD:
Appetizer
The Shrimp Sushi roll wrapped in plantains was phenomenal. Every ingredient perfectly complimented each other, and the complementary eel & house made hot sauce were spectacular. The flavor profile of the homemade hot sauce makes for the perfect accompaniment to a variety of dishes. I ordered a side of fries as to extend the joyous experience of that heated beauty.
Main Dishes
I ordered the stewed goat which came with white rice, mixed vegetables and plantains~ delicious. The deep rich flavors of the stew paired nicely with the bland rice. The goat was fall off the bone tender and spiced just right. The vegetables and plantains were standard island style.
One tablemate ordered a mixed seafood dish cooked in a curry sauce; the other ordered the garlic butter salmon~ both dishes were served with white rice and plantains. My table-mates enjoyed their meals commenting on how good the flavors were and overall taste.
THE VALUE:
Worth every penny. This restaurant is not a budget buster~ prices fall in line with casual dining expectations.
Note: reservations are required to guarantee indoor seating.
Brooklyn R — Google review
Loved my meal! Very good service! Attentive to all guests. Water glass was never less than 1/2 full. The food was great. Great place that is off the beaten path. Not enough people know about this little gem.
We had an amazing experience here! The atmosphere is wonderful! Initially, we thought about sitting outside, but the moment we stepped in and smelled the food, it reminded me of my grandma’s house, and we just had to stay inside.
We ordered the traditional Portuguese bacalhau, and every bite was incredible. Jose was so friendly and welcoming, which made the whole experience even better.
We can’t recommend this place enough and are already looking forward to coming back!
Hidden jem! Food was fabulous the owner was so friendly and kind. Service was great. We couldn’t ask for any more. You have to try it 🤌🤌
Recommend by the concierge at our hotel. Gostoso is away from the usual tourist spots in a residential neighborhood. The space feels like your favorite local restaurant from home. Staff was welcoming and friendly. The owner sat down by our table to chat, give suggestions and take our order. He also told us his history and the history of the restaurant. Food was excellent. Enjoy a sangria while you're there.
Loved this Portuguese Style Restaurant. As soon as we entered we greeted with warm welcomes. The staff were so friendly. We ordered the Cabrito Stoba (goat) and the Bacalhau (Cod). Both dishes were absolutely delicious. We cleaned the plates!
The food its exquisite, I have zero complain.
The quality is amazing, the owner brings a lot of service to make sure that everything is to your taste, sometimes can be a lot, but the decoration its amazing. Love it
Best dinner in Aruba! We discovered Gostoso last time we were in Aruba - 8 years ago and absolutely loved it. So it was on our list for our recent trip - the first time back in Aruba. It was every bit as wonderful as we remembered. The food is amazingly good. The kind where you can't help making audible sounds when you eat it. And I found myself cutting the food into smaller and smaller pieces to make the experience last...
Jose is a wonderful host. He will explain all the dishes and the specials and will customize a dish if you want, for example - have the sauce from one on the fish or meat of another.
It's pretty casual - not a white tablecloth and candle-light kind of place, and it's not on the beach. There are plenty of those restaurants in Aruba. But it you're looking for an absolute culinary delight in a pleasant, friendly, laid back atmosphere - look no further. We had 8 nights in Aruba this time and ate here twice.
Caya Ing. Roland H. Lacle 12, Oranjestad, Aruba•
Zoo
Outdoor Activities
Animal rescue service
Entertainment and recreation
Wildlife rescue service
Philip's Animal Garden is a non-profit sanctuary and rehabilitation center in Aruba, dedicated to the rescue and care of over 52 species of exotic animals. Visitors can enjoy interactive tours, feeding encounters, and petting sessions with a variety of creatures including snakes, kangaroos, monkeys, emus, ostriches, ocelots as well as farmyard animals like goats, pigs, horses, and donkeys.
This place is worth a visit! We went early in the morning while the caretakers were feeding the animals and they allowed us to feed the monkeys!! I was also able to hold a baby tortoise which is one of my favorite animals! Loved this place. Takes about 40 minutes to walk the entire place.
Stephanie R — Google review
My husband and I went for a visit while we were on our honeymoon. When we arrived, we were greeted quickly and received cups with treats for the animals and were told which ones we could feed. While the website mentioned a tour, we did not receive one and we weren’t sure how to find the tour; it didn’t look like anyone was on a tour when we were there, and it could have been because we visited on a Sunday, but no details were provided. The experience itself was lovely with the animals. The story itself explaining (on the website because there was no tour) was incredible to read.
When we were leaving, the staff were not as friendly as we were hoping. They offered to call us a cab and were told we’d wait 15-20 minutes, but we unfortunately waited nearly an hour for a cab. Thankfully we were able to wait where there was shade! We had spoken to 3 separate people checking in for our cab and they confirmed that they had called. When we were offered by the woman inside to call us a cab, we asked if someone had spoken to her about calling one, and she had said no. It was super irritating considering the 3 people we had spoken to were at the front entrance on their phones texting. I hope to return someday with a better experience with the staff and the service. But again, the experience with the animals was super lovely. If you’re visiting consider pre-book a cab or rent a vehicle. We wish we did, we would have left in a better mood.
I am a zoo fanatic. I make it my top priority to try and visit a zoo whenever I explore or visit a new place. Even though this isn't the biggest or nicest zoo I have been too. I still enjoyed myself. I love that we can feed most all the animals (Don't Feed the monkeys lol). This was an experience I will never forget. Definitely , great for the kiddos to get to feed many different animals.
Came here to see animals. I did like the had a good variety of animals. But we wanted to feed the animals and couldn’t find anybody. Very disappointed because the animals acted like they wanted to be fed . The zoo is not super pretty but it definitely something to explore.
This was a great experience, our tour guide June was really awesome! He knew his stuff and explained the history of everything well. Would definitely recommend for everyone to try this out ! The animal sanctuary was so cool as well, I’ve never seen a camel in real life and it may have been the highlight of my day!
I like it. You get to feed the animals. And it’s a sanctuary so some of the animals you can see are hurt. It’s a small little zoo. Nothing big. Staff is very friendly. You can see a python, snake, horses, donkeys, peacocks, baby tiger, ducks, turtles, monkeys, camels, etc.
We came to this place as a meeting point for our ATV tour. The staff was really friendly. Have us some carrots too feed the animals as we waited. Got a chance to spend some time with a baby monkey as well.
It is so wonderful being able to feed and interact with so many animals. Our kids ages 5 to 14 had a great time. Love the mission of caring for rescued animals.
Alto Vista 116, Noord, Aruba•
Island
Nature & Parks
Renaissance Island is a luxurious escape famous for its stunning white sand beaches, crystal blue waters, and charming flamingo population. This private island, owned by the Renaissance Resort, can be accessed via a ferry ride. Guests of the resort have complimentary access to the island, while day passes are available for purchase on a limited basis upon arrival.
Scored a day pass to the island. 2 great beaches, lots of wildlife. If you get a chance to come here, it's a must. Snorkeling was easy and fun. Lots of fish, 9 flamingos, alot of iguanas. Bring US quarters for the flamingo food dispenser.
Jon J — Google review
Renaissance Island is a nice little getaway from Aruba if you're really into the beach scene. As a marine biologist by profession I especially appreciated how they kept the island as natural as possible preserving the different types of mangroves. I enjoyed how close and personal you could get with the flamingos and the children on site enjoyed feeding them and the Green iguanas. Near Flamingo Beach Lookout under the bridge as there are lots of colorful fish 🐟 for you to enjoy. Felt "dushi" at Renaissance Island.
Beautiful place to visit. Family side and adult side. Bar and restaurant in the island. They provide towels if staying in room along with floating mats and snorkel equipment.
Rare opportunity to wade in the waters with flamingoes. If there aren’t any around the beaches during your visit try looking along the nature walks and the backside of some of the amenities
This beautiful beach and island offer a unique opportunity to see flamingos up close, and it's a dream come true for anyone who's ever fantasized about this kind of encounter.
The setting is stunning, with clear turquoise waters and soft sandy shores.
A few tips for your visit:
Skip the cocktails as they're mostly water and sugar—stick to the beer for a better drink experience.
Cabanas are often sold out, but don't lose hope; they sometimes become available even the day before due to cancellations. Planning ahead is crucial, but it's definitely worth the effort.
If you’re not staying at the Renaissance Hotel, day passes are sold at 9 am every Saturday (as of now)
Bring sunscreen, you don’t want to be paying 31$ like we did for when ours finished.
As a kid, I dreamed of coming to Aruba just to meet the flamingos on this island, and while seeing them was wonderful, I learned that they are actually kept in captivity and they just can’t leave.
I hope this changes in the future to allow for a more natural habitat for these beautiful birds.
I didn't want to bother the flamingos too much, it was so nice to see them roaming around freely.
I also hope the island provides better food for them in the future instead of dog food that tourists pay for.
Seeing the iguanas enjoying a giant bucket of fresh fruits for lunch all together made me super happy.
Small adjustments could go a long way.
I went here yesterday and had the time of my life honestly, the interaction with the animals on the island is top tier for sure !
Visited Renaissance Island since it was included in our stay at the hotel. The journey from the hotel dock took about 5-7 mins by water taxi. There is a side of the island for families and kids, and another side for adults only. We spent all day on the adults side and were lucky enough to snag lounge chairs front row on the beach. The service is great (from the guys manning the equipment who offered to carry our floaties for us to our server who checked in with us regularly to make sure our drinks were filled). The drinks were delish. Our favorite dish from the Mangrove Beach Bar & Fish Shack was the covina in a pouch - sooo flavorful! "The "beach" is protected, so no waves and very little wind - great for floating in the water. A few pink flamingos roamed around and we saw quite a few people feeding and interacting with them (we left them alone). It was worth it since access was included with our stay, but we didn't feel it would be worth it if we paid for a pass. It was fun to see, but probably wouldn't go back. The actual beaches in Aruba are much more interesting.
I think I was most excited about the close encounter with the flamingos…but they could honestly care less about us! And when I tried to feed them they weren’t hungry. However the island is absolutely gorgeous and it’s a great place to relax and get some instagramable pics and videos! The only downside was the airplanes constantly taking off the runway parallel to the island. The massages we booked to get on the island were absolutely amazing! Worth every penny!!! For my hubby and I for the day at the island including floats, towels, lounge chairs, 2 entrees of our choice from the menu, 2 mixed drinks, 2 50min Swedish massages in a hut that opens to the ocean with the waves as our background music it was $385. It was perfect! A great way to spend the day! I’d most definitely go back for those massages! The food and drinks were excellent! And the service was phenomenal. And be patient with your servers! Island time runs a little bit slower and more relaxed! But everyone was so kind!
Nature & Parks
Historical landmark
Geologic Formations
Natural Bridge Aruba is a must-visit geological wonder caused by years of erosion from the sea. Although the largest and most visited bridge collapsed in 2005, its remains are still a major tourist attraction. The stunning limestone arches and picturesque views make it a popular spot for photography. While visitors can't walk on the bridge due to safety reasons, they can capture its beauty from the side.
Cool spot with amazing winds. Car friendly location too! Waves were great as well. Please be careful if you do end up going over to walk the natural bridge. Would recommend for a quick stop to take in the atmosphere and ambiance.
Aninda Z — Google review
This is an interesting natural rock formation that forms a bridge across a small cove located on the eastern coast of the island. There's no fee to visit, and a nice snack bar and gift shop, as well as restrooms, of which there are few on the island's east side. It cost $1 per person (cash only) to use the restrooms so come prepared]
The island's east side is rocky, with dirt/sand roads and is sparsely populated. There's a much rougher surf on this side of the island with numerous spots where the surf smashes against the rocky shoreline offering excellent photo ops.
Worth stopping as there is no fee. It's a natural bridge that collapsed in 2005 with another smaller bridge next to it. The ocean waves craving into the rocks were spectacular. There is a small gift shop with a rest room that does cost $1 to use.
🌊 Review: Natural Bridge – Aruba
The Natural Bridge was one of the most stunning and unforgettable stops during my trip to Aruba! The contrast of the rugged coast with the wild, crashing waves was mesmerizing — there’s a kind of raw beauty to it that pictures honestly can’t capture. The water was fierce and vibrant, and standing near the bridge made me feel completely in awe of nature’s power.
If you’re visiting Aruba, this is absolutely a must-see! It’s a great spot for photos, reflection, and just soaking in the island’s unique landscape. I loved every bit of it — peaceful, powerful, and breathtaking.
Aruba is absolutely stunning and without a doubt a must see destination. From the moment we arrived, we were blown away by the island’s natural beauty, crystal clear turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and vibrant landscapes everywhere you turn.
We took full advantage of our time there by going on several tours that allowed us to explore all corners of the island. From rugged off-road adventures and serene snorkeling spots to cultural landmarks and hidden local gems, every experience added something unique to our trip.
Aruba has this incredible blend of relaxation and adventure that makes you feel like you’re in paradise. There’s still so much we didn’t get to see or do, which is why we’re already planning our return. Once you visit, you’ll understand why they call it “One Happy Island.”
The Aruba Natural Bridge is a must-see landmark, even though the original large bridge collapsed in 2005. The site still offers stunning ocean views, rugged coastline scenery, and the smaller “Baby Natural Bridge,” which gives visitors a sense of the area’s unique beauty. It’s a quick stop but worth it for photos and to experience one of Aruba’s iconic natural wonders. Best combined with other nearby attractions on the island’s north coast.
The Natural Bridge in Aruba is a cool spot to check out. The drive there is pretty fun, with some nice places to stop for photos along the way. Once you get there, you’ll find restrooms, a small café, and a few souvenir shops. We spent about 15 minutes, which was enough unless you want to hang out at the café. Definitely worth a quick visit!
Beautiful scenery of the surrounding area around the natural bridge. The area is rather rocky so wear your flat shoes and bring some chilled water you'll need it. This is not a long stay destination but worth seeing
Casibari Rock Formations, also known as Ayo Rock Formations, are a remarkable cluster of tonalite rocks in Aruba. These formations offer scenic trails and steps leading to the top, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The sites carry an air of mystery with scientists puzzled about their geological origin and archaeologists fascinated by the petroglyphs and paintings presumably made by Aruba's native Arawak people.
Beautiful area! Highly recommend walking up
The stairs to get a view of the entire area. The area is so calming and beautiful. It was so nice walking the entire area and viewing the rock formations. I also saw two owls which was super cool. The local that takes care of the owl and monitors the area was beyond kind and helpful. He showed the entire area and went over the history of how the rocks were formed as well as prickly pear. Side note: the locals in Aruba are extremely nice and welcoming. I had the best experience ever mostly due to how welcoming the locals were.
Shalon J — Google review
Must see and climb when visiting Aruba. The stair climb was relatively easy and the view was awesome. We did a Little Rock traversing on our own and it was a fun time. Make sure you’re experienced enough if you start climbing around.
Really cool rock formations to hike around and take pictures. Easy to navigate for most people. Well worth the short drive and time we spent. Honestly one of our favorite activities of the week. Strung this stop with the Aloe farm (first), Ayo rock formations, and the ruins, cave pool, and natural bridge. Made for a full afternoon.
What a very cool place to visit! I have been in the stone business for over 20 years. I was excited to find these formations on a random drive. Great stop! Its free. They have a restaurant also and looks like a pool there also. We didnt get a chance to try their food.
Great views. Can become crowded at top. Steep climb so take your time going up and especially coming down. Excellent spot to wander and take pictures. Many different smaller formations.
So surprised to be impressed by a collection of rocks and stones. It literally resembles a scene from the flintstones. Beautiful natural rock formations and cacti so tall and imposing. You can climb to the top if you're brave although the stairs are rather steep. Stayed for less than an hour. Local amenities nearby and worth adding to a days itinerary. Willllma! I couldn't help that one.😀
This is interesting place to visit at the times when you get tired of the beaches. Luckily when I visited, there aren't many people. its completely free and I could easily climb to the top of few rocks and watch interesting rock formations. You can also get good view of city
Another part of our bus tour. Interesting landscape, great view from the top, very windy! Especially enjoyed the little cantina across the way for libations!
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Museum
Dr. Eloy Arends House, built in 1925 and located in Oranjestad, Aruba, is a charming historical building that is currently under city ownership. While there is limited information available about visiting the interior of the house, it is often used for events such as weddings. The exterior of the house boasts beautiful architecture and serves as a picturesque landmark in the area.
Dr. Eloy Arends House (1925) in Oranjestad, Aruba, is currently owned by the city and used for weddings, etc.
David S — Google review
Nice for a picture but not open to the public.
(Translated by Google) I don't know if it's possible to visit the house. I couldn't find any information about it. I also don't know if anything works inside it, but it's very beautiful on the outside.
(Original)
Eu não sei se é possível visitar a casa. Não achei nenhuma informação sobre isso. Também não sei se alguma coisa funciona dentro dela mas é muito bonita por fora.
(Translated by Google) This is where we said yes🫶🏾
(Original)
Hier hebben we het jawoord gezegd🫶🏾
Garden
Linear Park in Aruba is a newly developed linear park that boasts the title of being the longest in the Caribbean. It offers a smooth paved trail perfect for various activities such as walking, jogging, and biking while providing stunning views for sightseeing. The trail commences at the airport and runs along the coastline to downtown Oranjestad, featuring numerous rest areas, refreshment stands, and dining options.
A good mix of beach access, picnic area in mangrove shade, and close to car parking lot.
Linear Park is relatively less busy as compared to other nearby beaches.
I spent around half a day here, swimming, relaxing in the shade, reading, etc.
Definitely worth ear-marking this location for some quiet beach access :)
Durga K — Google review
Relaxing beach good for sunset
Mentioned on
Plaza Daniel Leo, once the central square of Aruba's smaller capital city, continues to be a hub for cultural festivals and offers charming boutique stores for leisurely shopping. The plaza's distinctive architecture and vibrant color scheme make it easily identifiable.
4.8
(3383)
4.7
(10663)
Mentioned on
Beach
Outdoor Activities
Eagle Beach is a spacious white-sand beach in Aruba, known for its relaxed atmosphere and access to nearby resorts and restaurants. The Ritz-Carlton in Aruba offers a glamorous experience just 20 minutes from the airport, featuring various amenities such as dining venues, a spa, beachfront swimming pools, a casino, live entertainment, and kids programs. With stunning turquoise waters and white sand beaches, Eagle Beach is popular among holidaymakers seeking adventure.
This is one of the most beautiful beaches I've visited and seen in my life for a large public beach. Very spacious with turquoise blue waters and crushed creme colored sand. In the more secluded smaller beach category, there is another choice on the island that I'd recommend. Yet, Eagle Beach soars above many around the globe 🌎.
Derrick H — Google review
Picture-Perfect Paradise Without the Crowds!
Eagle Beach is, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful places I have ever been. If you're looking for the quintessential Caribbean paradise, this is it. The sand is the first thing you'll notice—it's pure, powdery white and feels cool and soft under your feet.
The water is simply breathtaking. It's a stunning shade of calm, turquoise blue and is so crystal-clear that you can see your toes perfectly, even when you're waist-deep. It was absolutely perfect for swimming and just floating around for hours.
What truly sets Eagle Beach apart is the wonderful sense of space. We had visited Palm Beach by the high-rise hotels and found it to be beautiful but very busy and crowded. Eagle Beach was a world away. You can always find a peaceful spot for yourself. You never feel like you're sitting or swimming on top of other people. It's the perfect place to truly relax, listen to the gentle waves, and soak in the serene atmosphere. We will be back!
Eagle Beach is absolutely stunning! The soft white sand and turquoise water are picture-perfect — it truly looks like something out of a postcard.
It’s one of the best beaches in the caribbean I have visited many in the caribbean and this it’s in the top. Natural sand all across the beach and turquoise cristal clear water. You can have one of the best views of the sunsets in the beach. Inside the water you can see the bottom even in the deep and it’s all sand without rocks. The beach has plenty of area to bring your chairs and umbrella and enjoy if you don’t have they have available for rent in the area.
Found the most perfect pocket of quiet at Eagle Beach through a walkway across the street from Screaming Eagle. The sand was white and fine, the water was calm. I took a swim to and saw that the areas north and south of where we were seemed busier. Regardless, still a very peaceful and less touristy beach. It was perfect!
Such a lovely beach. It can get crowded at certain parts due to the popularity. I did manage to find a great spot where it is less crowded in the early morning a few days ago and then came to a very populated area yesterday.
Great to just be here to relax and swim. As for snorkeling, there was not a lot to sed.
A nice beach, although not all that it's hyped up to be. I enjoyed Palm Beach more, but the same water and sand. The water felt amazing and possibly slightly cooler than other beaches, although it is bath water and a beautiful temperature. Lots of parking if needed and close to the grocery store rather than eating out all the time.
Large, beautiful beach. Plenty of space and it does not feel crowded. Great place to watch the sunset.
expensive
Seafood restaurant
Restaurant
Flying Fishbone is a renowned restaurant located in the serene fishing village of Savaneta, offering an intimate and romantic setting for diners. Established in 1977, it was the first establishment in Aruba to introduce feet-in-the-water dining. The restaurant's enchanting ambiance includes tables at the water's edge where guests can dine with their feet in the water, creating a truly unique experience. The menu features an array of international dishes, with a focus on fresh seafood sourced from local fishermen.
My husband and I had an unforgettable dinner at Flying Fish Bone. I love dining with my toes in the sand, very unique dining options in the water also! The sunset views were gorgeous, the dishes were flavorful and artfully prepared, and the service was attentive and friendly. Perfect spot for a romantic evening while in Aruba.
Joy H — Google review
Loved everything about this restaurant! Our waiter (alex) was a gentleman & very handsome😌. The hostess was so kind. The food was amazing! We had salmon & fish, loved the mashed potatoes & dessert! The view was stunning!! Feet in water was very relaxing I would definitely recommend. Nice experience from beginning till end.
The best experience in Aruba. I was very pleasantly surprised when I arrived and was greeted by Sari speaking Portuguese, knowing we were from Brazil! That showed exceptional customer care. Sari was the perfect waitress—smiling and giving great recommendations! The place is just as amazing as it looks in the photos… we went at 5:30 pm to watch the sunset and stayed until nightfall. The meals are perfect, the drinks are very well made, and I loved everything!
People raved about this place in Reddit and it didn't disappoint! We went on a Thursday night and did a walk-in at sunset without waiting. Every seat is perfect. The food was amazing and the views were spectacular. We had never had smoked oysters and they were so delicious. This was our favorite meal on the island and top 5 ever!
This place is phenomenal!! The service is amazing, the food is mind-blowingly delicious, and the vibes are immaculate! Definitely recommend the Shrimp Tempura appetizer and the Red Snapper (not sure if this special is recurring). The Chocolate Brownie and Mousse were the perfect end to a fabulous evening!
Awesome food, awesome views! Our waiter Rommel was amazing and took great photos of us for great memories. We were treated to a brownie for our Honeymoon. The snapper was the star of the show. Drinks were perfect, the artichoke salad was good. The baked Alaska Dessert was a good show and tasty! Worth the money and time!
We had a fabulous evening dining with our toes in the water at Flying Fishbone, watching the sun set over the ocean. I did get a little nibble from a curious fish, but it only added to the fun of the experience! Marc took exceptional care of us from start to finish. Everything—from the cocktails to the rolls with their incredible wine butter, to the steak with truffle—was absolutely delicious. This was such a beautiful, memorable experience, & one that everyone should try when visiting Aruba!
Gorgeous setting right on the beach with your feet in the water! Many gluten free options and good drinks. Would recommend going here in the quiet part of the island.
Savaneta 344, Savaneta, Aruba•
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expensive
Restaurant
Bar
Beach club
Seafood restaurant
Passions On The Beach, located at the Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort, offers a romantic alfresco dining experience. With its perfect service and delectable food, it provides an unforgettable evening by the water with torches and lanterns creating a magical ambiance. The menu boasts grilled meats and seafood sampler platters featuring Caribbean lobster tail, shrimp, grouper, and mahi-mahi. This restaurant is known for its fabulous dinner under the stars accompanied by the soothing sound of ocean waves.
We had a lovely experience at Passions On The Beach for our last night celebration to Diva friends before leaving the beautiful and happy island of Aruba. I highly recommend this restaurant on the beach. Food and service was excellent. The surprise complimentary friendship deserts was an added bonus. The live jazz renditions was wonderful and lively. Option to get up and dance if you wanted to shake of your meal or dance cheek to check with your love one.
Sherry S — Google review
This spot quickly became my favorite spot to be at in Aruba. First of all I love the clean beachfront that they have. Also chair rental is very reasonable and you don’t need umbrellas because you have Thatched Palapas everywhere. I had both lunch and dinner here and it was amazing. At 5:00 they set up tables on the beach close to the water for dinner. It instantly becomes a very romantic experience. The food is really good and between the service and the atmosphere you couldn’t ask for more. If you are in Aruba this is a must see destination on your trip.
Everything was great. Food is delicious, ribeye steak with the asparagus and mushrooms was amazing. The watermelon salad was delicious, nice size portions, worth the price $$, the atmosphere is great. Very relaxing and romantic, watch the sun set. Great place.
Passions On The Beach is an incredible dining experience! The atmosphere is absolutely magical. We went for dinner and received phenomenal service from start to finish. The complimentary champagne was such a thoughtful touch, and the food was excellent — especially the salmon!
We celebrated our anniversary here, and Rishena made it truly special! She was warm, attentive, and made us feel so welcomed throughout the evening. Every detail — from her smile to her thoughtful service — made our dinner unforgettable. Thank you, Rishena, for making our special night even more perfect. If we come back again, we’ll definitely ask for you! 💕
We always make it a point to have dinner here when in Aruba. The food is good and consistent and the sunset is beautiful. Its nice being out on the beach hearing the waves and seeing the sailboats go by. The service has always been good and its great because the kids can still play in the sand as the adults finish their drinks. Last night they had an amazing electric guitarist playing nice music.
We came here for dinner for our anniversary and the scenery was gorgeous. Food was amazing, and overall had a great experience. The staff went above and beyond for us with a champagne toast and dessert on the house for our anniversary! Juan David was an exceptional server! Answered all our questions, had great recommendations, so friendly and sweet, and made our experience so easy and smooth! Would def come back!
Our first and one of our best dining experiences during our visit to Aruba! Absolutely stunning, romantic oceanside setting with seating right on the lovely Eagle Beach, which has one of the best sunset views on the Island. And unlike Flying Fishbone whereby the beautiful setting is unfortunately not matched by the food, Passions puts as much tender loving care on your plate as they do on your other senses. Friendly, attentive service, delicious appetizers and seafood, and a must try key lime pie for desert (coming from someone who normally doesn't even like key lime pie). Believe the hype when it comes to Passions By The Beach!
J.E. Irausquin Blvd 252, Noord, Aruba•
Casino
Fun & Games
Restaurant
Shopping mall
The Alhambra Casino in Oranjestad, Aruba is a standard casino offering a variety of slot machines and table games. It is located in a lively area with the Alhambra Shopping Bazaar and fine dining options nearby. Nestled among divi-divi and sea grape trees, the casino is just steps away from beautiful beach strips.
Dropped my wife and mother in law off while I walked around the shopping area. Less than 1 hour later my wife turn $20 to $1799 and my mother in law won $500.
Verne L — Google review
Really fun place to gamble. Compared to a few other casinos on the island the dealers are a lot of fun here. After going to a few different casinos we ended up back here. Great experience both times!
The machines are a bit older but there are quite a few. Very clean inside, security is very helpful and nice, you can’t bring bags in but they let you check them at the desk. Table games open at 5pm and the cashier staff is also very nice. No photos allowed inside the casino. They do accept several currencies including US Dollar. Walking distance to the beach and some shops.
I recently visited this casino and was extremely disappointed. The entire place feels outdated and poorly maintained — from the decor to the gaming machines, everything looks like it hasn’t been updated in years. Even worse was the attitude of the staff. From the moment I walked in, I was met with indifference and unprofessionalism. The table dealers in particular, “Tony”, and others were rude and dismissive, making the experience uncomfortable rather than enjoyable. With so many better options available, I won’t be returning and wouldn’t recommend it to anyone looking for a fun or welcoming casino experience. The casino at the Ritz is definitely a better option for those who like to gamble.
Not impressed. Too many damm.penny slots. No bar that i could find. The casino looked bigger before the renovations. No wheel games, not enough room to move around. Better casinos on the island..Hyatt, Holiday Innn, LA Cabana.
Really enjoyed this casino! We had a lot of fun and the staff was very nice and accommodating. I will say the service was a bit slow for drinks, but otherwise it was a very fun place to be at. Will definitely come back next time we are in Aruba!
Small casino some table options, and slots. The casino has shopping and restaurants located near by within walking distance. Nice if you just want to relax and kill some time.
This is my third time coming from California and I love coming to this Casino to play roulette!
I came on a Friday and Saturday and had the best time of my life !
They have the best coffee ☕️ ❤️❤️❤️ kept me up all those hours I was there
Definitely will come next time I visit Aruba 🇦🇼!
I had a great time !
J.E. Irausquin Blvd 47, Oranjestad, Aruba•
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
Monument
Historic Sites
The Bushiribana Ruins in Aruba are the remains of a 19th-century gold mill, offering a glimpse into the island's gold rush era. Built in 1825 by the Aruba Island Gold Mining Company, these ruins showcase ancient construction techniques with natural stones skillfully carved and stacked without mortar. Although it was only operational for 10 years, its solid construction has allowed a significant portion of the mill to endure.
Very interesting ruins to visit. If you like to climb and see great views then this definitely a place to visit!
Jason B — Google review
Kids had fun climbing and exploring the old stone ruins. Another spot good for 10 or 15 minutes max in this area. The area is frequently overrun by groups of 50 more UTVs containing 1 to 6 tourists each. Avoid these areas at those times if possible.
This place has such a great view. There was one window that you can feel so much wind. I literally can stand there for a long time. It was so lovely. This place was a great place to visit and a bonus that it is right next to the cave pool.
I sound awful but this was not that exciting. Fair to say it was a historic building and of historical interest but a day out just to go there...no. we stayed all of 15 minutes. But just a minute away on a sandy area was the most unusual art. I thought, this can't be naturally conceived! It wasn't. Many visitors to the goldmine could of felt a bit of an anti climax, so they constructed different art from the local stones. We joined in too and spent about 20mins 'designing" and admiring our new art to be added to the collection. Strange how the smallest and sometimes oddest things bring a smile to your face.
It was great adventure, we did not took a tour, its easy to get there in a small car, and we did 3 experwiences in this small travel that took is only 2 hours Ruins, cave Pool and natural bridge. Take good shows its stoney.
Stop on our ATV tour. It's hot out here. Nice there was a food truck around serving drinks and food.
Interesting monument. On the beach with loud and stunning waves. You are able to drive to this area.
It was an interesting place to explore. There were quite a few people the first time I went. Decided to go in the morning to avoid people in my pictures.
Casino
Fun & Games
Seaport Casino is a vibrant gem nestled along Aruba's picturesque waterfront, offering an inviting tropical ambiance that enhances your gaming experience. This unique casino boasts over 300 state-of-the-art slot machines and various table games, including blackjack, Caribbean stud poker, and roulette. Open until the early hours of the morning, it provides ample opportunities for both casual players and serious gamblers to enjoy their luck.
Better for blackjack than the strip casinos. BJ pays 3-2, 8 deck shoe, dealer takes no hole card, free drinks
Nathan O — Google review
We just wanted to stop into one of the island casinos and see how they were. The roulette table was a lot of fun. They have a nice sports book.
Nice small casino! We played a bit of blackjack and slots. Saw someone actually win $32 k on slots. Drinks come slowly but if you tip well and remind them to return it’s not too bad.
Small but enjoyable casino right on the water in the Aruba's capitol.
A fun and friendly place to play slots.
Great little casino adjacent to main harbour. Excellent shopping near by. Good number of machines and regular hourly bingo games occurs. Easy access to location with public transport available.
Clean and well maintained.
Wonderful place to sit and relax after a long day of fun in the sun. The staff was friendly and there were plenty of machines to play. Very clean and upbeat environment.
Awesome casino. I had a great time at the roulette table. It’s also the only casino in Aruba with table games open 24 hours a day. Most open table games 3pm or 5pm. I didn’t see craps there which was disappointing but I could have missed it. There’s a $15 or $25 match play coupon in the Aruba visitors book - i found it after I had been to the casino but good reason to grab the book!
Catholic cathedral
Sights & Landmarks
Sacred & Religious Sites
Churches & Cathedrals
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Oranjestad, the San Francisco di Asis Pro-Cathedral stands as a testament to both history and architectural beauty. Originally constructed in 1815, this stunning church underwent significant renovations in 1953, resulting in its current breathtaking form. The design harmoniously fuses traditional Spanish and Dutch colonial styles, featuring an ornate facade that captivates visitors with intricate details and exquisite stained glass windows.
Did you know that JP2 has come here before?!
This is a beautiful cathedral!! With lovely stained glass.
All services are in papiamento, but a house of God is not restricted by the language of the services! ⛪ 💕
Air conditioned with ample seating and well maintained facility. Choir is upstairs!
If you're sightseeing, please know that they are only open as per the posted mass service schedule.
Margaret — Google review
I’m a visitor of the United States, and although it was in a different language, at least I understand portions of it since I also speak Spanish. Love the church and I love the service!
Being Catholic and receiving the Eucharist all over the world is the best.
We visited this Church for at the occation of a wedding. Unfortunately the sound system did not work properly so we could hardly hear anything! The people though were very nice and welcoming! The inside of the church is modern.
Very beautiful church service is not in English. We went at 7:00 on Sunday evening and if was perfect, no air conditioning so cooler evening is a great time to go. Very friendly parishioners and beautiful church. Sit on the sides if you want the fans.
Can I get times for mass on Easter Saturday and Sunday?
Beautiful cathedral of St Francis of Assisi. Fully AC. 4 masses on Sundays - 7 am, 9 am, 11 am, & 7 pm, all in Papiamento/Spanish.
It will be really nice if they conduct at least one English mass on Sundays for tourists.
O love it! I felt as my parish
J. Irausquinplein 3, Oranjestad, Aruba•
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4.8
(246)
4.7
(618)
Mentioned on
Beach
Outdoor Activities
Manchebo Beach is a stunning stretch of white sand and clear water located on a paradisiacal island. It is home to luxury resorts and spas, including the renowned Manchebo Beach Resort and Spa. This health-and-wellness hot spot offers yoga classes with beach views, making it an ideal place to find your Zen. The beach also serves as a nesting ground for four species of sea turtles, with protective measures in place to safeguard their nests.
This is by far the most beautiful beach in Aruba. The water is crystal clear and you can see your feet. Sometimes the fish swim by. The white sand is soft like clay. Wasn’t crowded at all. But when the jet skis roll by, the waves get bigger so be careful. It gets very windy and you still get a sunburn.
Lee S — Google review
Very nice, relaxing beach and a perfect spot to see the sunset. The part we swam at was a bit wavy and quickly turned deep but I think further down it looked calmer so there are options. Its a long wide beach so it feels less crowded evern during the busy times.
Peaceful beach tucked away from/underneath Eagle beach so, less crowded and more sandy area to walk on. There were a bit of current and waves the day we went but overall, Manchebo beach offers the finest and softest sand - which is very rare in Aruba, so very pleasant to walking on the beach! Plenty of parking in the Italian restaurant area since we didn’t stay in the resort right on Manchebo beach
Very beautiful beach, very similar to eagle beach.
Was here today...like others described its amazing...not too many people...and plenty of schools of fish nearby...clear waters in most areas...but steep drop off. Worth the walk fosho.
Staff not very friendly. Spa booked way in advance no slots for walk up guests. Couldn't get in for any treatment over 4 days. No cold drinking service water offered in the room. Can't get cold water or ice except like at a motel by walking over with a bucket to a dirty ice machine self service. The menu was very mid at the outdoor cafe. The pool bar mojitos were great but one day at the beach a family of tattoo covered locals showed up the hotel palapa in front of ours at the beach and even brought their dogs. The hotel staff did nothing to remove them. It seems they are advertising a property they don't actually own. The service was mediocre and so very over priced. Do not waste your money. One night I walked up to the front desk and the hotel porter was having a heated argument with a cab driver who had just dropped someone off. The guests wanted to use the cab but the porter was telling the taxi he couldn't take the guests because he had already called another taxi. You get the gist of the service. Very poor.
The waves are too dangerous. Period. No way I would bring small kids here.
The Manchebo beach is the most beautiful beach but is too dangerous, especially for kids. The Palms beach is very calm and nice for kids but less pleasant due to seagrass. The Divi beach is the golden middle.
Fantastic wide beach. Clean sand, plenty of space. Sunsets are incredible from the beach. Due to its size, the beach never feels crowded. The sea is a little more rough than Eagle Beach but this doesn’t detract from it. Plenty of great beach bars and restaurants around this area too.
4.8
(113)
4.5
(70)
Mentioned on
Beach
Outdoor Activities
Andicuri Beach is a no-frills bay beach surrounded by coral cliffs, offering powerful currents that attract bodyboarders. The windward coast location provides roaring waves and a rugged coastline, making it a stark contrast to the resort-filled west side of the island. This secluded spot is popular among experienced swimmers and serious surfers due to its strong currents.
Beautiful beach!! Short trail from Natural Bridge leads you to this beach. It takes about an hour max in total out and back. Might take less if you dont stop for pictures or explore around. We visited on a Sunday afternoon and had the beach to ourselves for most of the time. Only a few visitors via ATV route were there
Sailee — Google review
This beach was absolutely beautiful. We arrived just as a few tour groups were leaving, so we had the entire beach to ourselves—it felt like our own private paradise! The scenery was stunning, with clear blue water, soft sand, and a peaceful atmosphere.
You’ll definitely need a 4x4 vehicle to get there, but it’s 100% worth the trip. One of the most peaceful and memorable spots in Aruba. I highly recommend it!
Beautiful beach, it's like your on another world. If you come from route 6 you will need a 4x4 to drive it . We had a car and went as far as we could, then walked the rest of the way. It was solid 25min hike. If it is not sunny ☀️, cloudy ☁️ i suggest is best time to do it . . You can come from natural bridge area but still a little hike. The view is amazing especially if you take 5 mins walk to top of the rocks. You can feel the spray of the sea as it hits the rocks
Andicuri Beach is one of Aruba’s hidden gems — rugged, secluded, and perfect for travelers seeking a raw, natural escape. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and crashing waves, it’s ideal for photography, picnics, or simply soaking in the untamed beauty of Aruba’s north coast. The beach’s powerful currents make it unsuitable for swimming, but it’s a favorite spot for bodyboarders and adventure seekers. Reaching it requires a 4x4, adding to the sense of remoteness and exclusivity.
Most amazing magical beach. A quiet place like no other. Jeeped it, go slow and carefully. You will them have to stop and park as there are big rocks that stop you from driving further. Small hike to beach on dirt road. Careful of all the pickers and cacti. Then you will reach heaven . Go for a swim. Its the best.
Wonderful secluded beach. On a weekend in November there were only a few other locals here. There are a few “must knows” before you go:
Can you get here by car? Maybe. We were in a compact car and with some creative driving were able to navigate the rutted road. A Jeep or similar vehicle would be best. Seasonal rains seem to erode parts of the road, so keep these things in mind.
Can you get to the Natural Bridge and Blackstone from here? Yes. The natural bridge is a bit of a hike over uneven terrain and some spots that require light climbing. Blackstone is a short drive further.
What are the waves like? For our visit the forecast was “medium waves,” which translated to 5-6 foot swells with high frequency. Boogie/Body surfing would be ideal. The bay is wide enough that staying off the rocks is easy, and the current was relatively light, with a small surge during a short part of our three hour stay.
Is it worth it? If you love being in the ocean, yes!
Quite literally the most beautiful beach I have ever been to in my life! Clearest water I have ever seen.
a beautiful beach, not recommended for bathing due to the strong waves. it is recommended to bring sunscreen, chairs and hydration. It can be accessed on foot from the natural bridge or in rented rustic cars.
The Bushiribana Gold Smelter in Aruba is a fascinating site that offers a glimpse into the island's gold mining history. Built by the Aruba Island Gold Mining Company in the 19th century, these ruins stand as a testament to one of the oldest industries that attracted Europeans to Aruba. Despite a no trespassing sign, visitors can explore the area and learn about its colonial past.
You should go. It is cool to climb up and a little tricky climbing back down, but you can also exit out the back on flat land. Beautiful views. Have someone stay on the ground first to take your picture up in the windows. Very unique.
Sonday K — Google review
Great historical site. I wish they provided more information about the site on some type of signage outside. Very thought provoking to imagine it when it was in use.
Definitely recommend an ATV or Jeep to get to this site. Terrain is rocky and some parts are unpaved.
A free tourist attraction, you never know who you might meet. Ppl are touring from boat, and plane. I've personally met both and everyone was so welcoming and polite.. The views are impressive, they say you might can find some gold if you go looking.
The sign said do not enter the structure, but I saw quite a few people going in. Nice place to take panorama pictures. Beware of atv s going fast outside the building. There were a couple of food carts there, but we didn't try them. If you have made it this far, you should go to the Natural Bridge, which is close. I found that location more interesting.
If you're not ready for a terrifying, bumpy, off-road experience, this is not for you. But if you love an adventure, DO IT. Beautiful history and scenery all around, and the guides are great!
It's a great place to venture out to if you have a car just to experience how very different the north coast is. Very wild and rugged. Great for keen photographers. Especially early as this is the side of the island that benefits from awesome sunrise views.
I give this a 3.5 stars because its not much to look at but a fun place to explore and takes only 15 minutes to see and take a look around the structure itself. No restrooms available unless someone is there with a portable bathroom which cost $3.00 a person and who was there when our tour group arrived.
This landmark is a big part of Aruba history and fun place to take children to explore too.
Such a beautiful sight. And the ocean looks amazing from the top of the ruins. I added my rock formation. With the others that were there.
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4.5
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Sights & Landmarks
Historic Sites
Ships
The Antilla Shipwreck, located off the northern shore of Aruba near Malmok/Tres Trapi, is a must-see for snorkelers and divers alike. This World War II-era cargo ship, intentionally sunk by the German army to avoid confiscation, now rests at a depth of 60ft/18m. The wreck is teeming with marine life such as anemones, coral, fish schools, sponges and stingrays.
Very cool shipwreck with an interesting history. Lots of swim-thru's for every level of diver, lots of gorgeous soft coral growth, and a few resident turtles to make even the snorkelers happy. Don't miss this wreck!
Kat B — Google review
I was able to visit this shipwreck as one of three stops on a snorkeling catamaran cruise. It's about 60 feet down, so from a snorkeling viewpoint, it's a bit hazy. We saw a few varieties of tropical fish near the site. I think for this site, scuba diving would be a better way to explore it. From what I could see as a snorkeler, it was OK.
Highly recommend a snorkel trip or a submarine trip to see. ($40-$75PP)
This was probably the best part of my birthday trip. Me and my party literally took over the entire boat. lol We had a blast. The crew was so cool and down to earth. Jumping off the boat was my favorite part. I love swimming and it's just something about the water in Aruba that makes your body feel so good. This will definitely be another place I visit on my next trip to Aruba.
Never disappoints!!!! Bring your water camera and take home the beauty to remember later. We do the Jolly Pirate every year and we love it! Truly breathtaking views in the crystal clear water.
Schöner Tauch und Schnorchel Spot mit vielem vorwiegend kleinen Fischen. Wir haben auch 3 Schildkröten gesehen.
Ohne Sonne ist die Sicht allersings erschwert und man sieht nicht viel.
der spot ist allerdings sehr touristisch. als wir da waren war neben unseren boot mit 83 passagieren. noch 2 weitere boote und man musste aufpassen wohin man schwimmt ohne jemanden anzuschwimmen.
(Translated by Google)
Nice diving and snorkeling spot with lots of mainly small fish. We also saw 3 turtles.
Without the sun, visibility is difficult and you can't see much.
However, the spot is very touristy. When we were there was next to our boat with 83 passengers. 2 more boats and you had to be careful where you were swimming without swimming into anyone.
We went on a organized snorkeling adventure to the Antilla Shipwreck with "Pelican Adventures". It was a good trip out there and the crew was very fun to be around. They first brought us over the wreck so that you could snorkel in that area. The ship is big 398.3 ft (121.4 m) so you will not miss it and it is sitting at about 60 ft (18.2 m) in the water. But depending on the lighting will depend on how well you will see the boat. After about an hour we left that area and moved closer to the shore and more shallow water about 10-15 feet (3-4 m). A lot of little fish and my wife spotted a sea turtle.
Took the Palm Pleasure catamaran to the Antilla Shipwreck and definitely don’t forget the waterproof phone cover to catch a few images, mine are a little foggy but an awesome sight to see.
This spot was quite impressive. From the ship I took, you could snorkel along the entire ship which is not that far from the surface. Although I was able to touch it, my ears popped so I would recommend ear plugs. Scuba diving is available at the spot as well. The water is so fantastic to swim in all over the island of Aruba.
What a great dive! My son and myself had the best experience with our dive and seen amazing stuff.
4.2
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3.7
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Museums
Historical landmark
Historic Sites
History Museums
Museo Historico Aruba, located in the restored Fort Zoutman and Willem III Tower, dates back to 1798 when it was built as a defense against pirates. The museum showcases the island's history from ancient Caiquetio Indian artifacts through Spanish and Dutch colonialism. Visitors can feel the rich history seeping through the walls while learning about Aruba's heritage.
Simple museum but I am glad we went. Tells some of the history of the island. On Tuesdays they have a Bon Bini festival for a $15 entrance fee. They perform cultural dances, have food and drink. It looks fun!
Heather D — Google review
Ascending the tower's narrow ladders rewards visitors with a nice view of downtown. The museum itself has few exhibits and doesn't quite help if one really wants to learn about Aruba's history in a meaningful way. Early Dutch life, the settler founders and lineage of governors aren't presented in a pedagogical or chronological manner. Some useful explanations are hidden on signs in the tower.
I am giving it 5 stars because the view from the top is absolutely amazing. The museum itself is going through a renovation.
Learned so much about the history of the island. The music and dancing was great!
The museum has some interesting artifacts, but other than a brief paragraph on hat making, nothing is identified nor is there any information about the history of the building, the kitchen exhibit on the courtyard or anything else. The lovely young woman at the entrance was all that is patient and kind in her willingness to answer questions, but context on why those artifacts are in the museum would have been helpful.
Nice Tuesday evening entertainment. A way to learn about the history of the island.
Honestly, it's not a particularly interesting museum. It's quite expensive for the museologic offer, which is poor, and badly kept.
The museum offers access to the old fort tower, but, unfortunately, the surrounding area is not particularly worth a view.
The gentleman meeting the entrance yesterday was very nice, and that is something to celebrate.
The Tuesday evening show was fantastic, informative, and lively. Artifacts are interesting, but very little written material is displayed. If it weren't for the Bon Boni festival, I would only give 3 stars.
Museo Arubano, Zoutmanstraat, Oranjestad, Aruba•
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4.8
(9)
4.5
(187)
Mountain peak
Nature & Parks
Geologic Formations
Sero Colorado, located in the southeast of Aruba, boasts a breathtaking rocky landscape and is home to the impressive Seroe Colorado Arch, also known as Punta Basora Arch. The arch is a naturally formed rocky bridge at Colorado Point. Due to erosion from waves and weather, many of the island's arches have been collapsing in recent years. Visitors can enjoy watching the sunrise from this perfect spot and may even find sea glass on the beach.
Absolutely stunning. I will always hold a special place in my heart for this vacation . I could never have imagined just how beautiful this Country is. I hope this will not be my last trip here. Thank you Aruba for your beautiful country and people.
Lisa C — Google review
I love Colony beacuse always, i discovery something new
Nice beach… lots of opportunity to learn kitesurfing or watch.
A beautiful place to be in connection with nature
Beautiful scenery
4.7
(62)
4.8
(88)
Art studio
Museums
Art gallery
Art school
TERRAFUSE is a countryside studio in Aruba run by artists Ciro and Marian Abath. They create unique artwork using Murano glass and offer workshops where visitors can learn to make glass beads. The studio is located in a traditional cunucu house, giving it a unique and homey atmosphere. Visitors can also purchase beautiful pieces from the Abaths' gallery or take a tour of the studio. Marian is praised as an excellent teacher, providing informative and enjoyable workshops.
What a wonderful gallery and gentleman. We happened on this place when our taxi driver took us on a tour. We hired him for an hour tour that extended to two hours just because. If you get a minute stop by and tour his yard.
Joe N — Google review
If you appreciate art, culture, or just kind people— definitely visit Terrafuse! We weren’t able to take their workshop because we inquired after they were already fully booked, BUT we still came for a tour and were so delighted.
As a creative, I was so grateful to hear about their work and see their sculpture garden. My husband is not particularly an art lover and still was so interested in their work. Marian was so lovely and kind to us in passing, and their volunteer Desiree was bursting with joy and knowledge and she gave us the tour. Would go back in a heartbeat, and would encourage you not to sleep on this beautiful experience.
We had a beautiful time making glass beads. I've never trier anything like this. Marian was a very patient teacher and it was definitely a unique experience I would do again. This is fun for everyone (over 14 because of the use of torches). My husband enjoyed it as well, in fact he was better at it. 😁 It was therapeutic in a way. They also have a beautiful art garden to check out. Husband and wife are both artists, very cool. Wish I had today more pics, but just enjoyed the experience. Check it out, but make sure to plan ahead because they are only open on Mon and Thurs.
I recently attended a beginner's bead making workshop at TERRAFUSE Studio in Aruba, and it was an absolutely delightful experience! From the moment I arrived, I was greeted by the gracious and knowledgeable owners, Martian and Ciro, who made everyone feel welcome and excited to learn.
The workshop itself was incredibly well-structured, with Marian leading the class at a perfect pace for beginners. She was patient and thorough, ensuring that everyone felt comfortable with the techniques and materials. I appreciated her clear instructions and encouragement, which made the learning process enjoyable and stress-free.
One of the highlights of the experience was the fascinating tour of the studio's beautiful grounds, adorned interesting art pieces that truly reflect the creativity and spirit of TERRAFUSE. It was inspiring to see the blend of nature and artistry, which added to the overall ambiance of the workshop.
I left the class feeling accomplished and eager to continue my journey with glass bead making. I can't wait to return to TERRAFUSE Studio for more workshops and to further develop my skills. If you're looking for a fun and enriching creative experience in Aruba, I highly recommend attending a workshop at TERRAFUSE!
We had an amazing time. Marian is absolutely fantastic. She is a great teacher. Their studio is so eccentric and lovely. We did the bead making class and even though it was HOT, it wasn’t as unbearable as I thought it would be. I recommend highly doing something, anything here.
My daughter and I did one workshop with Marian and loved it so much we went back the next day for a second workshop and then rented 2 spaces of studio time two days after that! Marian is a great teacher! You will learn everything you need to make a bracelet or keychain. This was such a cool experience and we got to take home Aruban souvenirs that have meaning to us. We HIGHLY recommend Marian's workshop. We'll definitely be back on our next trip to Aruba!
Really enjoyed the walk through and information. Both owners were very helpful and greeted us warmly. Explained the process and showed us where to see some of their art. Definitely a great visit and so kind to drop what they were doing for random people walking in!
While in Aruba you can learn a new hobby, making glass beads! I'm addicted and will be going back for a second workshop and some studio time. Marian is a great instructor, and you literally walk away with a bracelet of your own making after the first class.
road from bar 080 in direction Alto Vista, Noord, Aruba•
4.6
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4.7
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Synagogue
Sights & Landmarks
Sacred & Religious Sites
Beth Israel Conservative Synagogue is a modern place of worship and the only Jewish synagogue in Aruba. Visitors have the opportunity to attend services and experience the warmth of the congregation. Located about a 20-minute walk from the cruise port and just 5 minutes from a beautiful beach, it's a must-see attraction on the island. While making arrangements before visiting is necessary, many find it to be an unforgettable experience, even if they are unable to go inside during non-service times.
About a 20 minute walk from the cruise port, and 5 minutes from a lovely beach, this lovely synagogue was the highlight of our time in Aruba. Though we didn’t get to go inside (it was a weekday afternoon, no services) it was still amazing to see Aruba’s only standing synagogue.
Marta F — Google review
Absolutely I must see but you must make arrangements before you go
Was here with my wife the first week Aruba opened up to the world during the pandemic and then all hell broke loose after we left with numbers spiking like crazy. Coming back this year for 3 Shabbatot from December 14th, 2023 - January 1st, 2024 and can't wait!!! The Rabbi is an AMAZING human being, and so are his congregants. My wife and I try to go to every single Synagogue we can visit when we travel all over God's Green Earth, and let me tell you, from someone who worked for the Cruise Ships, the Airlines and worked for Club Med in the Turks & Caicos, this is by far my FAVORITE Synagogue to visit. My wife and I are looking forward to the day we can retire part year here to this one of a kind, Hurricane protected Happiest Island Around!!!
Much love,
The Cohens
Spending a Shabbat with this community was wonderful. Well worth the visit. The history, pride and dedication is impressive They treated us like family. We are used to a very large Synagogue community, so this service felt very intimate and unique. We loved it!
Very friendly congregants. The Rabbi was from Argentina and very nice. Friday services usually start at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday at 9:30 a.m. But you should check the website to make sure. You can also buy some excellent Challah there.
Not a very warm reception. someone was supposed to call my father within a few days, it's weeks later and still no one called
A beautiful temple
The synagogue is beautiful, the museum is very interesting.
Adriaan Laclé Boulevard 2, Oranjestad, Aruba•
4.8
(8)
5.0
(2)
Art gallery
Art cafe
Art center
Art dealer
There is an exceptional new establishment located in the heart of Oranjestad. It functions as both a restaurant and a gallery, showcasing stunning artwork from various disciplines. The cuisine offered is outstanding, with a strong emphasis on using locally sourced ingredients and organic products to minimize its environmental impact. This charming venue in the city center is perfect for vegans, although there are non-vegan options available as well. The food served here is not only delightful but also healthy and organically produced.
Lovely, cozy place in the middle of the city. Great for vegans (they also have some non-vegan options as well), the food is delicious, healthy and organic! Super friendly staff, great service. Highly recommended!
Denisse A — Google review
Great new place in the center of Oranjestad. It's a gallery style restaurant, gorgeous art hanging around and artists of multiple discipline hanging around. The food is great. They try to use as much as possible locally produced ingredients and organic products to leave less carbon footprint in our environment.
Amazing Sangria I've ever had in my Life❣ ps 🍓 & 🍒
Mushroom soup was amazing.
A true Thrysting Place
Weststraat 7A, Oranjestad, Aruba•
4.6
(9)
4.0
(1)
Picture frame shop
Museums
Art gallery
Art museum
L'America Gallery in Aruba is a charming art space located in Renaissance Mall, showcasing the works of 8 talented local artists. The collection includes unique handmade ceramics, oil paintings, and driftwood pieces by artists like Helena Hoes, Juan Carlos, and Kim Violenes. In addition to the diverse artwork on display, visitors can also admire an interesting wine collection and a few retro cars.
The person who collected the art in this gallery has certainly a good taste. We bought a Spanish red wine and was marvelous!
Damián C — Google review
The gallery is small, but contains interesting pictures, wines collection and even a few retro cars. Almost everything available for purchasing $$$$$.
Excellent 👍
Italiestraat 24-A / Unit # 3, Oranjestad, Aruba•
Other best-of categories in Oranjestad
What's the weather like in Oranjestad?
It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Oranjestad for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.
- Weather in Oranjestad in January
- Weather in Oranjestad in February
- Weather in Oranjestad in March
- Weather in Oranjestad in April
- Weather in Oranjestad in May
- Weather in Oranjestad in June
- Weather in Oranjestad in July
- Weather in Oranjestad in August
- Weather in Oranjestad in September
- Weather in Oranjestad in October
- Weather in Oranjestad in November
- Weather in Oranjestad in December
Explore nearby places
- Oranjestad
- Paradera
- Palm - Eagle Beach
- Noord
- Santa Cruz
- Arashi
- Arikok National Park
- Savaneta
- San Nicolas
- Sabana Westpunt
- Christoffel National Park
- Sint Willibrordus
- Willemstad
- Washington-Slagbaai National Park
- Rincon
- Kralendijk
- Tucacas
- Maracaibo
- Barquisimeto
- Valencia
- Maracay
- Canaima National Park
- Los Roques National Park
- Caracas
- Palomino
- Valledupar
- Merida
- Minca
- Taganga
- Santa Marta
- Barranquilla
All related maps of Oranjestad
- Map of Oranjestad
- Map of Paradera
- Map of Palm - Eagle Beach
- Map of Noord
- Map of Santa Cruz
- Map of Arashi
- Map of Arikok National Park
- Map of Savaneta
- Map of San Nicolas
- Map of Sabana Westpunt
- Map of Christoffel National Park
- Map of Sint Willibrordus
- Map of Willemstad
- Map of Washington-Slagbaai National Park
- Map of Rincon
- Map of Kralendijk
- Map of Tucacas
- Map of Maracaibo
- Map of Barquisimeto
- Map of Valencia
- Map of Maracay
- Map of Canaima National Park
- Map of Los Roques National Park
- Map of Caracas
- Map of Palomino
- Map of Valledupar
- Map of Merida
- Map of Minca
- Map of Taganga
- Map of Santa Marta
- Map of Barranquilla
Oranjestad throughout the year
Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Oranjestad?
Get inspired for your trip to Oranjestad with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:
Best attractions in nearby cities
- Top things to do and attractions in Punta Cana
- Top things to do and attractions in San Juan
- Top things to do and attractions in Willemstad
- Top things to do and attractions in Kralendijk
- Top things to do and attractions in Palm - Eagle Beach
- Top things to do and attractions in San Nicolas
- Top things to do and attractions in Sabana Westpunt
- Top things to do and attractions in Cartagena
- Top things to do and attractions in Santa Marta
- Top things to do and attractions in Caracas
- Top things to do and attractions in Merida
- Top things to do and attractions in Maracaibo
- Top things to do and attractions in Valledupar
- Top things to do and attractions in Barquisimeto
- Top things to do and attractions in Maracay
Best restaurants in nearby cities
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Punta Cana
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in San Juan
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Willemstad
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Kralendijk
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Palm - Eagle Beach
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Noord
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in San Nicolas
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Santa Cruz
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Savaneta
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Paradera
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Cartagena
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Santa Marta
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Caracas
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Merida
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Maracaibo
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Valledupar
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Barquisimeto
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Valencia
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Maracay
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Palomino
Planning a trip to Oranjestad?
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