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Ready to explore Oranjestad, Aruba’s vibrant capital? You’re in for a treat!
Oranjestad is the heart of Aruba, blending colorful Dutch colonial architecture with Caribbean charm. From its bustling markets and historic landmarks to its natural beauty and thrilling adventures, there’s no shortage of amazing things to do in this lively city!
Having visited Oranjestad many times, I’ve uncovered the must-do activities that will make your trip unforgettable. Whether you’re a history buff or an adventure-seeker, this list has you covered. So, let’s dive into the very best things to do in Oranjestad and start planning your perfect Aruba getaway!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Oranjestad was this Land Rover excursion! We visited the famous Baby Beach and Natural Pool, swam, snorkeled, and had a BBQ lunch. It was the ultimate Aruba experience!
- Don't Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Things to do in Oranjestad, Aruba
- 1. Learn about Aruba’s history and landmarks on an island tour
- 2. Take a 4×4 jeep excursion to Natural Pool and Baby Beach
- 3. Learn all about Oranjestad on a city tour
- 4. Go snorkeling on a catamaran cruise
- 5. Take a horseback ride in Arikok National Park
- 6. Explore the North Coast on an ATV
- 7. Enjoy a sunset cruise (with happy hour!)
- 8. Go parasailing
- 9. Explore underwater in a submarine
- 10. Have dinner in the California Lighthouse
- Where to Stay in Oranjestad, Aruba
- Thanks for reading!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Don't Forget Travel Insurance!
Things to do in Oranjestad, Aruba
1. Learn about Aruba’s history and landmarks on an island tour
- Duration: 7 hours
- Time: 9 am or 10 am
- Highlights: Explore the island’s most popular spots in an air-conditioned vehicle, learn about the island’s history and culture from your guide, and have time for swimming and snorkeling
- Inclusions: Hotel pick-up/drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, bottled water
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check out the 1,300+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you’re looking to escape the city and see the entire island of Aruba, this full-day tour is perfect! Hop aboard an air-conditioned coach and enjoy a relaxing ride around the island to all the best stops without any hassle. Whether you’re into history, nature, or just stunning views, this tour has it all, and the comfortable ride makes it even better.
The day starts with a visit to the Aruba Aloe Factory, where you’ll learn all about the island’s aloe vera industry (did you know it’s been thriving for over 160 years?). Then, it’s off to the California Lighthouse for a panoramic view of the island (and an optional climb if you’re feeling adventurous!).
One of my favorite stops was the Ayo Rock Formation, where you can climb the boulders for an unbeatable view. The Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins are also pretty neat and take you back in time to Aruba’s gold-rush era.
After all that exploring, the tour ends at Baby Beach, where you can cool off in the serene waters of the man-made lagoon. There’s also a spot for lunch here, just make sure you bring some extra cash with you!
This tour is ideal if you want to sit back and enjoy the island’s highlights in a relaxed, stress-free way. It’s a great option for travelers who prefer a comfortable, guided experience over the heat and bumps of off-road adventures. It’s one of the island’s highest-rated tours (with over 1,000 5-star reviews!), and only costs $69 USD per person – you can’t beat that!
Reserve your spot here and receive FREE 24-hour cancellation!
2. Take a 4×4 jeep excursion to Natural Pool and Baby Beach
- Duration: 8 hours
- Time: 8:30 am or 9 am
- Highlights: Go off-roading in a 4×4 Land Rover to some of the island’s top attractions, swim at the Natural Pool, snorkel at the beautiful Baby Beach, and enjoy a BBQ lunch
- Inclusions: Certified local guide, water, BBQ lunch
- Rating: 5 stars (check out the 7,000+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Last time we were in Oranjestad, we did this 4×4 off-road adventure and had the best time! If you’re into exploring stunning beaches and off-the-beaten-path natural landmarks, this tour is for you!
I’ve been on many ATV tours before, but this was my first time on a Land Rover, and let me tell you, they’re built to tackle the island’s rough terrain like a pro. We went places that ATVs would never be able to go!
The first stop is Baby Beach, one of the island’s most popular beaches (for good reason!). It has clear turquoise water, with soft, white sand. I just couldn’t resist jumping into the warm water for a snorkel!
Then, we headed to the famous Conchi Natural Pool. Nestled in Arikok National Park, it’s protected by volcanic rocks, so the waves gently splash in. It’s like swimming in your own little paradise! We also visited some of the island’s other iconic landmarks like the California Lighthouse, which has a cool history tied to a shipwreck from the 1800s, and the Gold Mill Ruins, which are remnants of Aruba’s gold mining days.
The day was perfectly balanced with a ton of sightseeing, but also time to relax and take in the surrounding natural beauty. Plus, the Land Rovers make the entire experience so much fun! This is a tour I would happily do again, and I know I’m not the only one – look at the thousands of 5-star reviews here!
Check availability for this popular tour and book your spot here!
3. Learn all about Oranjestad on a city tour
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Time: 8:45 am or 9:15 am
- Highlights: Explore sites of Aruba’s capital on a walking tour, visit Fort Zoutman and the National Archeological Museum, sample local food, and learn about Aruba’s history and culture
- Inclusions: Local expert guide, food samples, entrance fees, bottled water, hotel/port pick-up (drop off not included!)
- Rating: 5 stars (check out the 500+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Exploring Oranjestad on foot is a fantastic way to dive into Aruba’s history, culture, and colorful charm, and this downtown city walking tour is perfect for anyone looking to experience the island beyond the beaches. It’s engaging, laid-back, and a must for first-time visitors!
Our guide was incredible, sharing fascinating stories about Aruba’s history, architecture, and local life as we strolled through the vibrant streets. From the pastel-colored colonial buildings to iconic landmarks like the clocktower and the green “I Love Aruba” sign, every corner offered something to marvel at (and plenty of photo ops!).
One of the highlights was sampling some delicious local snacks along the way, including Pan Bati, a traditional Aruban flatbread that’s absolutely delicious!
We also visited Fort Zoutman, Aruba’s oldest structure and previous military fortress. I really enjoyed learning all about its fascinating role in the island’s history! We also explored the bustling marketplace, where our guide pointed out the best spots for souvenirs.
What sets this tour apart is its small-group setting, giving you plenty of time to ask questions and truly soak in your surroundings. It’s a memorable and intimate way to uncover Oranjestad’s hidden gems while gaining a deeper appreciation for Aruba’s rich culture. If you want to see another side of Aruba, I highly recommend this walking tour – and so do the hundreds of other people who left 5-star reviews (see them all here)!
If you’re ready to explore the highlights of Oranjestad, secure your spot here!
4. Go snorkeling on a catamaran cruise
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Time: 9:30 am or 1 pm
- Highlights: Sail around Aruba on a spacious catamaran, stop to snorkel at the Antilla Shipwreck and Catalina Bay, and enjoy snacks and drinks from the open bar
- Inclusions: Snorkeling equipment, snacks, unlimited alcoholic beverages, soft drinks/water
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check out the 2,000+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Catamaran cruises are one of my favorite tropical island activities. There is nothing better than relaxing on a luxurious boat with a cocktail in hand. So, if you’re like me, then you must go on this catamaran cruise!
We set sail from Palm Beach, which is just a 15 minute drive from downtown Oranjestad. Once onboard, I quickly found a spot to soak up the sun in one of the nets at the front of the boat – talk about paradise! But it wasn’t long before we were stopping at the iconic Antilla Shipwreck.
Snorkeling around this eerie shipwreck was such an incredible experience and the history behind the wreck is almost equally as fascinating. The ship was deliberately sunk during WWII to keep it from getting captured by the Allies – how crazy is that?
Our next stop was Catalina Bay, which was equally stunning. The water here is crystal clear and so warm to swim in. Plus, the snorkeling is top-notch. I was surrounded by hundreds of tropical fish!
The crew made sure everything was smooth sailing, from keeping us safe in the water to keeping the drinks flowing on deck. We also really appreciated the included snacks!
Whether you’re an avid snorkeler or just want to relax on board, this trip offers something for every type of traveler. Believe me, if you’re in Aruba you don’t want to miss out on this epic experience (just look at all of the 5-star reviews!)
Secure your spot on this sailing adventure here before it sells out!
5. Take a horseback ride in Arikok National Park
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Time: 9 am or 3 pm
- Highlights: Go horseback riding in Arikok National Park, get riding instruction from a professional guide, go swimming in the famous “Conchi” natural pool
- Inclusions: Hotel pick-up/drop-off, national park fees, bottled water, helmets, professional guide
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check out the 900+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Looking for an unforgettable way to explore the natural side of Aruba? Then you must add this horseback adventure in Arikok National Park to your itinerary!
Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned rider, this tour is designed for everyone. Your knowledgeable guide will pair you up with a horse suited to your skill level and provide clear instructions before taking off.
The trail winds through Arikok’s dramatic landscapes, from rocky desert paths to breathtaking highland views. Arikok National Park is even home to some unique species such as the burrowing owl – so keep your eyes peeled as you ride!
After riding for a while, you’ll reach Conchi, a natural volcanic rock pool filled with crystal-clear water. It’s only accessible only by horse, 4×4, or foot, making it feel like a secluded piece of paradise. You can choose to go swimming here or simply take in the beauty of the crashing waves against the rocks before heading back on your horse.
This tour makes it easy to explore Arikok National Park, as they provide pick up and transportation from Oranjestad. Anyone aged 8 and up can participate, making it a great activity for the entire family.
Read all of the 5-star reviews and book your spot here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
6. Explore the North Coast on an ATV
- Duration: 4 hours
- Time: 9 am or 2 pm
- Highlights: Ride on a solo or double ATV along Aruba’s North coast, stop at iconic landmarks such as the Alto Vista Chapel, Baby Natural Bridge, and Bushiribana Gold Mill, swim
- Inclusions: Hotel/port pick-up/drop off, local guide, safety equipment, bottled water
- Rating: 5 stars (check out the 2,200+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Exploring Aruba’s rugged terrain on an ATV is an exhilarating way to see the island, and this half-day tour is perfect for anyone new to ATVs or just looking for a shorter adventure that fits easily into their schedule.
After a quick safety briefing, we geared up and hit the trails, riding along Aruba’s stunning coastline and dramatic desert landscapes. The route was a perfect mix of adrenaline and sightseeing, with plenty of stops to soak in the views and snap photos.
Our guide was awesome, ensuring everyone felt confident on their ATVs before taking off. He even shared fascinating facts about Aruba’s history and landmarks along the way – which we really appreciated!
One of the tour’s highlights was a visit to the Natural Bridge, a gorgeous spot where waves crash dramatically against the rocky shore. We also stopped at Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins, a historic site that offers a glimpse into Aruba’s gold-mining past. For a cool-off break, we made our way to a natural cave pool, a hidden gem with crystal-clear water perfect for a refreshing dip.
You can customize this tour to fit your style, whether you prefer to ride solo, double up with a friend, or even upgrade to a private tour for a more personalized experience. With hotel pickup, gear, and the option to tailor your ride, it’s no surprise this half-day ATV tour has thousands of 5-star reviews. It’s an unforgettable way to explore Aruba’s wild side without taking up your whole day!
Read the full itinerary and reserve your spot here!
7. Enjoy a sunset cruise (with happy hour!)
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: 5 pm
- Highlights: Watch the Aruban sunset from a trimaran sailboat, enjoy open bar beverages, munch on some tasty appetizers
- Inclusions: Professional guide, captain and crew, unlimited alcoholic beverages, snacks, Octopus souvenir
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check out the 1,000+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
There’s something so magical about an Aruban sunset, and there’s no better way to soak it all in than on this intimate happy hour sunset cruise!
Picture this: a sleek, 40-foot trimaran gliding through the turquoise waters, a cocktail in hand, and the setting sun painting the sky in colorful hues of orange and pink. It’s the ultimate way to wind down your day in paradise!
What makes this cruise extra special is the cozy vibe. It’s just you, your fellow passengers, and a crew that makes you feel like part of their family. The cushioned lounge seating ensures comfort no matter where you sit, and with an open bar serving everything from local Aruba Ariba to classic spirits and refreshing non-alcoholic mixers, you’ll never go thirsty.
In fact, every 15 minutes, the crew brought out different appetizers right to our seats – talk about VIP treatment!
Sailing along the northern coast was so relaxing and the views were to die for. Whether you’re snapping Insta-worthy photos, chatting with the friendly crew, or simply basking in the breeze, this experience is all about savoring the moment.
We think it’s the perfect romantic experience for couples or a fun way to end the day with friends. Trust me, this sunset sail is a must-do Aruban experience you won’t forget!
Check availability and reserve your spot on this sunset cruise here!
8. Go parasailing
- Duration: Approx 13 minutes
- Time: Multiple departure times throughout the day
- Highlights: Take in incredible views of the island during a thrilling parasailing ride, fly single, tandem, or on triple sets from the boat
- Inclusions: Experienced guide
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check out the 350+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you’ve ever wanted to try parasailing, Aruba is the place to do it! On this parasailing adventure, you will get unmatched views of Aruba’s turquoise water and white sand beaches while soaring through the sky!
Even if you’ve parasailed before, I think it’s worth doing again in Aruba. No matter how many times you go, it’s still so much fun, plus the views in Aruba are unlike anywhere else – it’s so stunning!
You can also rest assured that you’re in good hands because this company has over 35 years of experience. I could tell they really cared about the safety and comfort of each guest and we received a thorough safety briefing before heading into the skies.
We love that you can fly solo, tandem, or even as a trio (depending on the wind and weight conditions). Sharing these types of experiences with friends or family always makes them more fun and memorable.
I think parasailing is an experience everyone should try at least once, so why not check it off the bucket list while you’re in Aruba? It’s fun, safe, and highly rated with over 300 5-star reviews – so what are you waiting for?
Book this thrilling parasailing adventure in advance here!
9. Explore underwater in a submarine
- Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Time: 11 am
- Highlights: Go on an hour-long submarine ride, get a closer look at shipwrecks and marine life at a depth of up to 130 ft (40 meters), and enjoy professional narration during the journey
- Inclusions: Certified submarine, professional crew, all taxes, official dive certificate
- Rating: 4.6 stars (check out the 1,000+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Even though I love snorkeling and scuba diving, I understand it’s not for everyone, which is why this underwater submarine experience is so cool! It brings you deep into the ocean to get a close look at Aruba’s marine life without getting wet!
In fact, this US Coast Guard-certified submarine can actually go as deep as 130 feet (40 meters), which is deeper than most scuba divers can go! So even if you’re an avid sea explorer, you’ll still find this experience really neat.
The journey kicks off in Oranjestad with a quick safety briefing before boarding the vessel and taking a seat beside the porthole windows. We passed by the Barcadera Reef, which was teeming with tropical fish, sponges, and colorful coral. We even saw an eel, so make sure you keep your eyes peeled!
But the real highlight was when we passed by two incredible shipwrecks resting on the ocean floor. Each had its own mysterious story which was narrated by the friendly and knowledgeable crew. It felt like we were in an underwater documentary!
At the end of the experience, you get an official dive certificate to commemorate your deep-sea adventure, which makes for a great souvenir. It’s an unforgettable experience for all ages and the perfect way to see Aruba’s underwater world in air-conditioned comfort – I mean, just look at all these amazing reviews!
If you’re ready for an epic underwater journey, reserve your spot here!
10. Have dinner in the California Lighthouse
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: 6 pm or 8 pm
- Highlights: Enjoy a 3-course dinner at the top of the California Lighthouse, sip on some wine while enjoying stunning views of the island, watch the sunset or enjoy your meal under the stars (depending on the option selected)
- Inclusions: 3-course dinner, 1 bottle of wine
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check out the 150+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you’re looking for a dining experience that’s as unforgettable as Aruba itself, this California Lighthouse dinner is where it’s at. I honestly think it’s one of the best dinners I’ve ever had!
From the moment we ascended to the top of the lighthouse, we were treated to a cool ocean breeze, the sound of waves crashing below, and panoramic views across the island. It really set the vibe for a romantic evening!
Once we were all settled in with our bottle of wine, the food started rolling in. We had the crunchy risotto balls to start and they were so delicious. For the main, I had the parmesan-topped sea bass and Dan had the chicken fettuccini. Then to top it all off we enjoyed a dreamy tiramisu for dessert – just thinking about it makes me hungry!
There are two different options you can choose from when booking this dining experience. The first is a sunset dinner that starts at 6 pm and costs $380 USD for 2 people. The 2nd option starts later at 8 pm for dinner under the stars and is a bit more affordable at $295 USD per 2 people.
No matter which option you choose, we know you’ll have an amazing time during this romantic evening. It’s more than just a dinner, it’s an experience you’ll remember for a long time to come!
Book this luxury dining experience in advance here!
Where to Stay in Oranjestad, Aruba
Now that you have a list of the top things to do in Aruba, you need the perfect place to stay! If you’re like me, I get a bit obsessive about finding the absolute best hotel – I mean it could make or break your experience! To help you with planning, I’ve put together three excellent hotel options for a luxury, mid-range, or budget stay.
Luxury – $$$
For a luxury stay, I recommend the Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort. Located right off of Eagle Beach, you can choose between full apartments or suite-style rooms to really relax into your stay. I love the Dutch architecture, and also the pools, restaurants, and spa that are all located onsite. The ambiance at this resort is unmatched, and being steps from one of Aruba’s top beaches doesn’t hurt either!
Prices vary by season and room selection but start around $400 USD per night. Check availability and book this stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
If you’re looking for a nice stay at a moderate price point, the Wonders Boutique Hotel is a great option. While it might not be as centrally located to the beach as other stays, it’s in the heart of Oranjestad and is truly a bang for your buck. It’s full of tropical greenery, a stunning colonial building, and has a huge pool – you’ll forget you’re in the city at all!
Rooms are around $200 USD per night for a king room. Check availability and book this stay on Booking.com.
Budget – $
Sandcastle Beach Apartments is a quaint and quirky guest house, and is budget-friendly! Technically, this stay is in Noord, the neighboring town, but it’s the best option for a budget price! It’s located not far from Palm Beach and the guest house offers bicycle and car rental services. They offer standard hotel rooms or apartment-style rooms, and you can use the pool, barbeque facilities, and shared patio area.
The rooms are well priced around $60 to $100 USD per night. Check dates and book this stay on Booking.com.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
We loved our time in Oranjestad, Aruba. Even though it’s the capital city, it had a quaint and charming vibe that we really enjoyed. Plus, it was easy to hit Aruba’s can’t-miss activities, so it made for a great launch point for day trips!
If you need help planning your further adventures, check out our other travel blogs! We’ve been all over the world and love sharing our favorite places and experiences with fellow travelers. Here are a few related blog posts to get you started:
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