Oranjestad travel guide

Oranjestad Tourism | Oranjestad Guide

You're Going to Love Oranjestad

Oranjestad, the capital of Aruba, is a popular port of call in the Caribbean. Though it preserves much of its colonial architecture, the city has a colorful collection of modern cafes, restaurants, and designer shops.

With attractions such as Arikok National Park, Fort Zoutman, and the National Archaeological Museum Aruba, Oranjestad offers visitors an extensive cultural selection as well as a stylish retreat.

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Oranjestad

1. White Sand Beaches

Palm and Manchebo are just a couple of Oranjestad's gorgeous white sand beaches. With umbrellas and chairs for rent, settle in and enjoy the view of the crystalline waters.

2. Colonial Remnants

Built in 1750, the Alto Vista Chapel is a simple orange and yellow structure with panoramic views of the coast. Fort Zoutman, erected in 1798 by the Dutch Army, hosts the Bon Bini Festival every Tuesday, a celebration of the island's culture.

3. Upscale Shopping

With a selection that includes jewelry, leather goods, crafts, and Dutch cheeses, among others, Oranjestad affords an upmarket shopping experience along L.G. Smith Boulevard.

4. Culinary Delights

Whether it's fresh fish, ostrich, or tropical fruits, Oranjestad provides a delectable culinary experience. Balchi Pisca, Stropi di Tamarijn, Carnival Calamari, and Pan Dushi are just a few foods you'll come to love in Oranjestad.

5. Relax and Rejuvenate

Based around local plant extracts and sea salt, Oranjestad's spa offering includes soothing scrubs, hot stone massages, and mud wraps at its many wellness centers.

1. White Sand Beaches

Palm and Manchebo are just a couple of Oranjestad's gorgeous white sand beaches. With umbrellas and chairs for rent, settle in and enjoy the view of the crystalline waters.

2. Colonial Remnants

Built in 1750, the Alto Vista Chapel is a simple orange and yellow structure with panoramic views of the coast. Fort Zoutman, erected in 1798 by the Dutch Army, hosts the Bon Bini Festival every Tuesday, a celebration of the island's culture.

3. Upscale Shopping

With a selection that includes jewelry, leather goods, crafts, and Dutch cheeses, among others, Oranjestad affords an upmarket shopping experience along L.G. Smith Boulevard.

4. Culinary Delights

Whether it's fresh fish, ostrich, or tropical fruits, Oranjestad provides a delectable culinary experience. Balchi Pisca, Stropi di Tamarijn, Carnival Calamari, and Pan Dushi are just a few foods you'll come to love in Oranjestad.

5. Relax and Rejuvenate

Based around local plant extracts and sea salt, Oranjestad's spa offering includes soothing scrubs, hot stone massages, and mud wraps at its many wellness centers.

What to do in Oranjestad

1. Eagle Beach: Get Some Sun

According to 'the experts', this is one of the world's finest beaches, and we won't argue with them. Pure white sands slip under soft blue waters at Eagle Beach, which is relatively underdeveloped given its high potential. When you visit, you'll have time to walk, run, swim and sunbathe without being bothered by crowds. Of course, there are a few kiosks and restaurants in the area serving food and drinks -- but not enough to cause any trouble. It truly is a sweet spot in the Caribbean. If you visit during turtle season, you might get to see Leatherback, Loggerhead, Green and Hawksbill turtles make their way from the beach into the ocean.

2. Aruba Butterfly Farm: Make Some Fluttery Friends

If you're a lover of the outdoors, a kid or someone who likes beautiful scenery, the butterfly farm is an absolute must. Aruba's Butterfly Farm has two areas (one tropical and one rain forest), so there's a variety of species to see that call these different habitats home. Twice a week, early risers can visit the farm to see baby butterflies hatch and take flight with the sunrise. It's truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

3. Arikok National Park: A True Adventure for Nature Lovers

Almost one fifth of Aruba is a national park, making it an ideal escape for those who love nature. Arikok National Park is the crown jewel of the island with over 7,900 acres of pristine tropical habitat. The park has nature trails, rangers eager to inform visitors about endemic species of plants and animals and a visitors center with a busy list of activities that kids will love. Hike through the park and you might find yourself startling an Aruban burrowing owl, Aruban rattlesnake or Aruban parakeet. Those hoping to learn a bit about the island's history will love the Arawak Indian drawings that decorate some of the park's caves as well.

4. Hooiberg: It's Much Taller Than a Haystack

When the Dutch discovered this island, Hooiberg was already here. The dormant volcano, which they named "haystack", towers above the center of the island. Covered in trees, Hooiberg is accessible via a famous staircase built out of 900 steps. Make your way to the top and you'll be treated with an incredible view. As you climb up, you'll find a gazebo at the halfway point -- a welcome rest stop for tired travelers.

5. Aruba Ostrich Farm: Get up Close and Personal with These Birds

Aruba is home to a few surprises, and ostriches are one of them. This farm is home to dozens of ostriches and emus. The park offers tours to guests of all ages, and if you like, you may even get the chance to feed these flightless birds. It's definitely a highlight for kids, but adults should have plenty of fun too. In addition to the farm, the property has a bar and restaurant and a gift shop full of authentic South African handicrafts. All told, it's a great way to spend an afternoon in Aruba.

1. Eagle Beach: Get Some Sun

According to 'the experts', this is one of the world's finest beaches, and we won't argue with them. Pure white sands slip under soft blue waters at Eagle Beach, which is relatively underdeveloped given its high potential. When you visit, you'll have time to walk, run, swim and sunbathe without being bothered by crowds. Of course, there are a few kiosks and restaurants in the area serving food and drinks -- but not enough to cause any trouble. It truly is a sweet spot in the Caribbean. If you visit during turtle season, you might get to see Leatherback, Loggerhead, Green and Hawksbill turtles make their way from the beach into the ocean.

2. Aruba Butterfly Farm: Make Some Fluttery Friends

If you're a lover of the outdoors, a kid or someone who likes beautiful scenery, the butterfly farm is an absolute must. Aruba's Butterfly Farm has two areas (one tropical and one rain forest), so there's a variety of species to see that call these different habitats home. Twice a week, early risers can visit the farm to see baby butterflies hatch and take flight with the sunrise. It's truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

3. Arikok National Park: A True Adventure for Nature Lovers

Almost one fifth of Aruba is a national park, making it an ideal escape for those who love nature. Arikok National Park is the crown jewel of the island with over 7,900 acres of pristine tropical habitat. The park has nature trails, rangers eager to inform visitors about endemic species of plants and animals and a visitors center with a busy list of activities that kids will love. Hike through the park and you might find yourself startling an Aruban burrowing owl, Aruban rattlesnake or Aruban parakeet. Those hoping to learn a bit about the island's history will love the Arawak Indian drawings that decorate some of the park's caves as well.

4. Hooiberg: It's Much Taller Than a Haystack

When the Dutch discovered this island, Hooiberg was already here. The dormant volcano, which they named "haystack", towers above the center of the island. Covered in trees, Hooiberg is accessible via a famous staircase built out of 900 steps. Make your way to the top and you'll be treated with an incredible view. As you climb up, you'll find a gazebo at the halfway point -- a welcome rest stop for tired travelers.

5. Aruba Ostrich Farm: Get up Close and Personal with These Birds

Aruba is home to a few surprises, and ostriches are one of them. This farm is home to dozens of ostriches and emus. The park offers tours to guests of all ages, and if you like, you may even get the chance to feed these flightless birds. It's definitely a highlight for kids, but adults should have plenty of fun too. In addition to the farm, the property has a bar and restaurant and a gift shop full of authentic South African handicrafts. All told, it's a great way to spend an afternoon in Aruba.

1. Eagle Beach: Get Some Sun

According to 'the experts', this is one of the world's finest beaches, and we won't argue with them. Pure white sands slip under soft blue waters at Eagle Beach, which is relatively underdeveloped given its high potential. When you visit, you'll have time to walk, run, swim and sunbathe without being bothered by crowds. Of course, there are a few kiosks and restaurants in the area serving food and drinks -- but not enough to cause any trouble. It truly is a sweet spot in the Caribbean. If you visit during turtle season, you might get to see Leatherback, Loggerhead, Green and Hawksbill turtles make their way from the beach into the ocean.

2. Aruba Butterfly Farm: Make Some Fluttery Friends

If you're a lover of the outdoors, a kid or someone who likes beautiful scenery, the butterfly farm is an absolute must. Aruba's Butterfly Farm has two areas (one tropical and one rain forest), so there's a variety of species to see that call these different habitats home. Twice a week, early risers can visit the farm to see baby butterflies hatch and take flight with the sunrise. It's truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

3. Arikok National Park: A True Adventure for Nature Lovers

Almost one fifth of Aruba is a national park, making it an ideal escape for those who love nature. Arikok National Park is the crown jewel of the island with over 7,900 acres of pristine tropical habitat. The park has nature trails, rangers eager to inform visitors about endemic species of plants and animals and a visitors center with a busy list of activities that kids will love. Hike through the park and you might find yourself startling an Aruban burrowing owl, Aruban rattlesnake or Aruban parakeet. Those hoping to learn a bit about the island's history will love the Arawak Indian drawings that decorate some of the park's caves as well.

4. Hooiberg: It's Much Taller Than a Haystack

When the Dutch discovered this island, Hooiberg was already here. The dormant volcano, which they named "haystack", towers above the center of the island. Covered in trees, Hooiberg is accessible via a famous staircase built out of 900 steps. Make your way to the top and you'll be treated with an incredible view. As you climb up, you'll find a gazebo at the halfway point -- a welcome rest stop for tired travelers.

5. Aruba Ostrich Farm: Get up Close and Personal with These Birds

Aruba is home to a few surprises, and ostriches are one of them. This farm is home to dozens of ostriches and emus. The park offers tours to guests of all ages, and if you like, you may even get the chance to feed these flightless birds. It's definitely a highlight for kids, but adults should have plenty of fun too. In addition to the farm, the property has a bar and restaurant and a gift shop full of authentic South African handicrafts. All told, it's a great way to spend an afternoon in Aruba.

Where to Eat in Oranjestad

Gostoso serves a blend of Portuguese and Aruban Cuisine. Specialties include espetada a la marinera and Portuguese-style bacalhau. Entrees average 45. Barefoot Restaurant offers seaside dining and specializes in fresh fish and meat dishes, such as blackened mahi mahi and tenderloin and truffles. Entrees average 54-80.

When to visit Oranjestad

Oranjestad in September
Estimated hotel price
RM 2047
1 night at 3-star hotel
Oranjestad in September
Estimated hotel price
RM 2047
1 night at 3-star hotel

Mostly sunny is the best way to describe Oranjestad. This holds true year-round with an average temperature of 82 degrees.

Data provided by weatherbase
Temperatures
Temperatures
Data provided by weatherbase

How to Get to Oranjestad

Plane

The Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA) in Oranjestad has flight connections to the United States, the Netherlands, and the Caribbean, among other locations. The cost of a taxi to downtown is 44-54.

Plane

The Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA) in Oranjestad has flight connections to the United States, the Netherlands, and the Caribbean, among other locations. The cost of a taxi to downtown is 44-54.

Airports near Oranjestad

Airlines serving Oranjestad

KLM
Good (830 reviews)
British Airways
Good (4,306 reviews)
Delta
Good (4,588 reviews)
Air France
Good (968 reviews)
United Airlines
Good (4,864 reviews)
Qatar Airways
Good (2,479 reviews)
Air Canada
Good (5,523 reviews)
Etihad Airways
Good (818 reviews)
JetBlue
Good (1,637 reviews)
Spirit Airlines
Good (4,481 reviews)
Avianca
Good (1,303 reviews)
LATAM Airlines
Good (977 reviews)
Copa Airlines
Good (775 reviews)
American Airlines
Good (5,704 reviews)
Sun Country Air
Good (135 reviews)
WestJet
Good (1,857 reviews)
Wingo
Good (84 reviews)
Sunwing Airlines
Good (25 reviews)
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Where to stay in Oranjestad

Greater Oranjestad - housing most monuments, museums, casinos, restaurants, and shopping areas, Greater Oranjestad is the island's cosmopolitan capital.

Popular Neighborhoods in Oranjestad

Simeon Antonio - Simeon Antonio is the location of the annual Soul Beach Music Festival, one of the Caribbean's most highly regarded live music celebrations.

Upper Town - Upper Town Oranjestad is home to the Sint Eustatius Museum, an 18th-century structure with a vast collection of pre-Columbian artifacts, slavery exhibits, Jewish relics, ceramics, and furniture.

Simeon Antonio - Simeon Antonio is the location of the annual Soul Beach Music Festival, one of the Caribbean's most highly regarded live music celebrations.
Upper Town - Upper Town Oranjestad is home to the Sint Eustatius Museum, an 18th-century structure with a vast collection of pre-Columbian artifacts, slavery exhibits, Jewish relics, ceramics, and furniture.

Where to stay in popular areas of Oranjestad

How to Get Around Oranjestad

Public Transportation

The Arubus service stops every hour in front of most hotels. Fares are 9 for two trips.

Taxi

Taxis in Oranjestad are available by phone. Rates average 16 for downtown rides.

Car

Car rentals in Oranjestad are widely available. Rates start at 58 per day.

Public Transportation

The Arubus service stops every hour in front of most hotels. Fares are 9 for two trips.

Taxi

Taxis in Oranjestad are available by phone. Rates average 16 for downtown rides.

Car

Car rentals in Oranjestad are widely available. Rates start at 58 per day.

Car hire agencies in Oranjestad

Avis

Avis

Thrifty

Thrifty

Budget

Budget
Find car hire in Oranjestad

The Cost of Living in Oranjestad

Shopping Streets

L.G. Smith Boulevard, which runs through downtown Oranjestad, houses most high-end shops, malls, and markets.[/

Groceries and Other

Ling & Sons IGA Super Center, a large supermarket, sells organic produce, baked goods, gourmet food, as well as select wines, liquors, and chocolates. Super Food Plaza features organic goods and deli specialties. Oranjestad is relatively expensive, with a gallon of milk averaging 9.50 and a dozen eggs 4.

Cheap meal
RM 52.01
A pair of jeans
RM 131.35
Single public transport ticket
RM 11.45
Cappuccino
RM 13.34