Oranjestad Cruise Port Guide
Photos: Bgabel (CC BY-SA 3.0) · via Wikimedia Commons; Vidhi Gandhi, Adib Fahri, Manniesing Minachi, DOMENICO PEPE, Martin Fryč · via Google Maps
- Country:
- Aruba
- Region:
- Caribbean
- Coordinates:
- 12.5186° N, 70.0358° W
About Oranjestad
Oranjestad is the capital and most populous region of Aruba, situated on the southwestern coast of the island. The port serves as an ideal base for families and couples seeking a mix of cultural experiences and natural attractions, with many highlights within easy reach.
Just steps from the port, you'll find Queen Wilhelmina Park, a city park perfect for a quick stroll. Nearby in Oranjestad itself, Plaza Turismo offers local shops and culture at just 1.3 km away, whilst Druif Beach provides a relaxing seaside escape at 2.4 km from the port.
Exploring Beyond the Port
Venture slightly further to discover Aruba's distinctive natural attractions. Casibari Rock Formations in Paradera showcase dramatic geological features, whilst The Butterfly Farm Aruba in Noord offers a colourful experience for all ages. Those seeking island adventure can visit De Palm Island or the iconic Natural Bridge Aruba in Santa Cruz, each providing memorable photo opportunities and outdoor activities.
As a port of call on Caribbean cruises, Oranjestad connects you to nearby islands including Basseterre, Bridgetown, Castries, and Charlotte Amalie.
Oranjestad, the capital and most populous of Aruba's eight regions, is located on the southwestern coast of the island.
Read more on Wikipedia (text CC BY-SA)
Things to do in Oranjestad on a port day
Top-rated sights within reach of the cruise terminal. Ratings, hours and reviews from Google — check opening times before you go.
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Photo: Natural Bridge Aruba · via Google Maps Tourist attraction
Natural Bridge Aruba
4.4 (5,079) 8.8 km from port
This collapsed limestone bridge naturally formed by waves remains a scenic attraction.
- Good for children
- Toilets
Opening hours
- Monday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Tuesday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Wednesday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Thursday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Friday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Saturday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Sunday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- 5 · “We visited the Natural Bridge in Aruba with ABC Tours Aruba and had a great time. The views were absolutely…” — Jo Richa
- 5 · “Breath taking views, natural rock formations surround the area, leading right to the shore. The actual Natural Bridge is very…” — Chip Lechner
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Photo: Dave · via Google Maps Tourist attraction
Casibari Rock Formations
4.5 (3,407) 4.5 km from port
Enormous tonalite rock cluster offering surrounding trails, steps leading to the top & scenic views.
Near: Casibari Café and Grill (31 m) · Casibari Boulders (32 m)
- Good for children
- Toilets
Opening hours
- Monday: Open 24 hours
- Tuesday: Open 24 hours
- Wednesday: Open 24 hours
- Thursday: Open 24 hours
- Friday: Open 24 hours
- Saturday: Open 24 hours
- Sunday: Open 24 hours
- 5 · “Really nice destination, good for a quick jaunt, plan for an hour, two if you stop for food. Very easy…” — Martin C
- 5 · “Several ways up and down. Nice view from the top. Pretty park surrounding formation. No wheelchair Access to top. Bar/restaurant…” — Beth Clark
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Photo: De Palm Island · via Google Maps Tourist attraction
De Palm Island
4.4 (2,969) 7.8 km from port
Offshore island for all-inclusive day trips featuring food, drinks, beach swimming & snorkeling.
Near: Coconuts De Palm Island (66 m) · Snuba (74 m)
- Good for children
- Toilets
Opening hours
- Monday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Tuesday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Wednesday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Thursday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Friday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Saturday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Sunday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
- 5 · “The island was beautiful. Lots of seating area. The food was good. Very nice staff. I did the underwater excursion…” — Marie Leveille
- 5 · “Lots of fun. We rented a cabana to be with the flamingos and they were a treat. The service was…” — Renee Anderson
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Photo: The Butterfly Farm Aruba · via Google Maps Tourist attraction
The Butterfly Farm Aruba
4.7 (2,809) 5.2 km from port
Nature sanctuary home to hundreds of butterflies in a rainforest-like enclosure, offering tours.
Near: Divi Aruba Phoenix Beach Resort (107 m) · Signature Park (134 m)
- Wheelchair-accessible entrance
- Good for children
- Toilets
Opening hours
- Monday: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
- Tuesday: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
- Wednesday: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
- Thursday: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
- Friday: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
- Saturday: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
- Sunday: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
- 5 · “This was one of the most magical experiences I've had in Aruba. I had a fear of bugs since a…” — Kg Lopez
- 5 · “It’s always a treat coming back here and enjoy this farm and how well it’s kept and maintained by the…” — Ricardo
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Tourist attraction
Druif Beach
4.6 (746) 2.4 km from port
Near: Guardian Group Fatum (208 m) · International Language Academy of Aruba (231 m)
- Wheelchair-accessible entrance
- Good for children
Opening hours
- Monday: Open 24 hours
- Tuesday: Open 24 hours
- Wednesday: Open 24 hours
- Thursday: Open 24 hours
- Friday: Open 24 hours
- Saturday: Open 24 hours
- Sunday: Open 24 hours
- 5 · “Great beach just bring your beach chair.” — D C (DC)
- 5 · “Free to visit, Best time early morning or late afternoon. Very peaceful chapel.” — Дубравка Угарковић
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Tourist attraction
Plaza Turismo
4.6 (562) 1.3 km from port
Near: Sandra's Garden (22 m) · Hamaka Sidewalk Café (35 m)
- Wheelchair-accessible entrance
- Good for children
Opening hours
- Monday: Open 24 hours
- Tuesday: Open 24 hours
- Wednesday: Open 24 hours
- Thursday: Open 24 hours
- Friday: Open 24 hours
- Saturday: Open 24 hours
- Sunday: Open 24 hours
- 5 · “Great photo opportunity especially after dark!” — John Mark Penfield
- 5 · “Quick photo opp location. Conveniently located near Sandra's Bar and Reflections Bar. Both great places for drinks and food.” — Jeff F
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City Park
Queen Wilhelmina Park
4.5 (74) 0.3 km from port
Near: The West Deck (109 m) · Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort (134 m)
- Wheelchair-accessible entrance
- Good for children
Opening hours
- Monday: Open 24 hours
- Tuesday: Open 24 hours
- Wednesday: Open 24 hours
- Thursday: Open 24 hours
- Friday: Open 24 hours
- Saturday: Open 24 hours
- Sunday: Open 24 hours
- 5 · “Beautiful statue dedicated to Princess Wilhelmina the Queen of Netherlands by her daughter. A lot of history to be seen…” — Isaac Stevens
- 5 · “Small park that is an easy walk from the cruise port. Well manicured. There is a beautiful statue of Queen…” — AdamLTW
Map of Oranjestad and nearby attractions
Best time to visit Oranjestad
Cruises to Caribbean mostly sail november to April.
- Jan
- Feb
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Cruises calling at Oranjestad
Deals update daily — see all Caribbean cruises.
