Cruising to Aruba: Here are my top 5 suggestions. Discover the vibrant heart of Aruba in Oranjestad, where history and culture come alive. Stroll through the bustling streets of Main Street, lined with designer shops and local crafts. Indulge in the flavors of Aruba at the Renaissance Marketplace, offering a feast for the senses. For a touch of adventure, hop on the free trolley to see landmarks like the House of Parliament and Fort Zoutman. Relax on the serene beaches of Druif or Surfside, perfect for sunbathing or paddle boarding. And don’t miss the chance to explore the natural beauty of Sasariwichi Dunes or the panoramic views from Hooiberg. Oranjestad is a treasure trove of experiences, waiting to be discovered.

Port of Oranjestad, Aruba: Offers a mix of Dutch colonial architecture and a vibrant beach scene.

by Duchess DJ Love: Author, Blogger, Caregiver, Frequent Traveler, Influencer, Digital Creator, Mentor, Photographer, and Podcaster. 

The below tips are just a few highlights, and there’s much more to discover within a short distance of the cruise port in Oranjestad. I’ll share my favorites while exploring Oranjestad.  Lady Lexie, my mom, battles dementia. Therefore, we limit activities as not to overwhelm her.

As we departed the MSC Divina for some Aruba sightseeing, our first stop was the I ♥️ Aruba sign. What a perfect keepsake to remind you of your visit to this desert looking island.  Next, we found that our ball caps were a bit hot, we needed the cool breeze hats. Off to find one with I ♥️ Aruba. Just past Diamonds International is a store with all sorts of I love Aruba items.

If jewelry is your thing, then don’t pass by Diamonds International. Over the years, this brand has been my go to shop for beautiful designs and stones. 

We arrived in Aruba around 10am. By 11am, midday it is hot and a bit sticky due to the humidity. There is a nice breeze though. However, the heat depletes Lady Lexie’s energy. So we walk around and take some photos before making our way back to the ship. The local market shops have cold bottled water and sodas for sale too.

We each refresh with a beverage. We found suitable hats to our liking, purchased some Aruba Christmas theme items, and a lovely straw hat with love on it. There was only one and I knew it was meant for me. The universe sent me some love!

Once at port at the One Happy Island of Aruba your adventure begins. Within walking distance of the cruise port in Oranjestad, Aruba, there are plenty of activities and sights to enjoy:

• Main Street: A vibrant shopping area with a variety of stores and restaurants.
• Free Trolley: For a more leisurely exploration, there’s a local trolley offering free transportation between the pier and downtown areas. The free trolley in Oranjestad offers a convenient way to explore the city and its attractions. Here’s what you can see on the trolley route:
• House of Parliament: The seat of Aruba’s government.
• Archaeological Museum: A museum showcasing Aruba’s pre-colonial history.
• Fort Zoutman (Historical Museum): A museum located in a historic fort.
• Protestant Church: A notable religious site in the city.
• Local and International Cuisine Restaurants: Enjoy a variety of dining options along the route.

The trolley operates between 10 AM and 5 PM, and it’s a great way to get a panoramic view of the downtown area. For the most current information on operating days and hours, it’s recommended to check with the information desk outside of the Cruise Ship Terminal. Enjoy your ride!

Explore Oranjestad: The capital city is a neat and well-organized place that offers a relaxed and safe atmosphere. Just stepping out of the cruise ship, you can start exploring. You will find the I love Aruba sign. You can see it from the Cruise Terminal located at Lloyd G. Smith Blvd 19, Oranjestad, Aruba near the Paardenbaai Plaza.

Shopping: You can visit designer shops, glamorous boutiques, jewelry stores, and local arts and crafts markets. The Renaissance Mall is a famous spot, just a 5-10 minute walk from the cruise ship.

Dining: There’s a variety of restaurants offering local and international cuisine. The Renaissance Marketplace is known for its selection of eateries and live entertainment.

Beaches: While a bit further out, the famous beaches of Aruba are accessible by a short bus or taxi ride. The bus terminal is conveniently located right in front of the port exit. Near Oranjestad, Aruba, you can find several beautiful beaches that are perfect for a day of relaxation or adventure:

• Druif Beach: Known for its calm waters and family-friendly atmosphere, it’s a great spot for couples and families.
• Surfside Beach: A favorite among locals, this beach offers a long, narrow strip of sand ideal for picnics and paddle boarding.
• Picnic Aruba: Praised for its clear waters and beautiful surroundings, it’s considered one of the best beaches on the island.
• Divi Beach: Offers plenty of space during low tide and is a nice size for sunbathing.
• Governor’s Bay Beach: Despite being close to a main road, the trees provide a peaceful setting with nice white sand.

These beaches are within a short drive from Oranjestad and offer a variety of experiences, from serene sunbathing to exciting water sports. Enjoy your time at the beach!

Weather: The island is like a dessert: windy and hot! I mean very hot. You’ll need a hat that you can tie and stay hydrated.

Cultural Sights: Havenstraat and Schelpstraat, followed by Main Street, are the main streets to explore for a taste of local culture and history. Explore the main streets like Lloyd G. Smith Boulevard for shopping and views of the bay and marina. Royal Plaza is another area with high-end shopping.

Transportation: Taxis are available with official rates, and public buses offer affordable travel to major destinations, including the beaches.

For a more detailed guide, including maps and taxi rates, you can refer to comprehensive resources available online.

In Oranjestad, Aruba, there are several must-see landmarks that offer a glimpse into the island’s rich history and culture:

• California Lighthouse: A historic lighthouse that offers panoramic views of the coastline.
• Sasariwichi Dunes: A beautiful natural area with stunning dunes and a great spot for photography.
• National Archaeological Museum Aruba: Showcases Aruba’s pre-colonial past and is a treasure trove of artifacts.
• Hooiberg: The highest point on the island, offering breathtaking views of Oranjestad and the surrounding area.
• Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins: A fascinating site with remnants of the island’s gold mining history.

These landmarks provide a mix of natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural insights, making them essential stops for any visitor to Oranjestad. Enjoy exploring!

MSC Divina offers a variety of shore excursions that cater to different interests and preferences. Here are some of the types of excursions you might find:

• Scenic Route: Enjoy breathtaking views on a tour that takes you through the most picturesque parts of the port city.
• Culture & History: Explore the rich backgrounds of your destinations with guided tours that delve into the local heritage and landmarks.
• Active & Adventure: Get an adrenaline hit with tours that include activities like hiking, snorkeling, or zip-lining.
• Natural Wonders: Relax in the beauty of natural landscapes with excursions to parks, beaches, or other natural attractions.
• Sea & Sun’s Relax: Kick back and unwind with tours that offer a leisurely pace and opportunities to soak up the sun.
• Something Special: Experience unique activities or events that are not commonly found elsewhere.

On my Facebook, I share more photos, tips, videos, and reels. Check them out. Here are the links: My Reel with 3 Aruba travel tips., Duchess DJ Love’s travel tips, A fun Aruba reel, Aruba One Happy Island video, More Aruba. I’ll be sharing more on podcasts. This page will be updated too. Subscribe for more.

Additionally, MSC Divina has created special packages like the Excursions Explorer Package, MSC Bike Adventours, and MSC PROTECTOURS – a series of environmentally conscious excursions – which are available on specific itineraries.

Take a submarine tour to discover the underwater world or enjoy a snorkeling adventure at one of the many pristine beaches.

For a comprehensive list of available shore excursions and to book your experience, you can visit the official MSC Cruises website or contact their shore excursion desk directly. Remember to check for any updates or changes to the excursion program as your cruise date approaches.

These are just a few highlights, and there’s much more to discover within a short distance of the cruise port in Oranjestad. Enjoy your visit!

Tips:

• Don’t forget your bug spray and sunscreen!
• Remember, Aruba is a dessert.
• English widely spoken.
• Dollars are acceptable.
• Extremely windy.
• Enjoy the Trolley.
• Check out my essential travel tips.

Learn more1iqcruising.com 2adventourbegins.com 3visitaruba.com 4cruisecritic.com

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