🌴🦩 CRUISING TO ARUBA? Here’s What You Can Do Close to the Port

If your cruise stops in Oranjestad, the good news is you can enjoy a lot without booking an excursion or even taking a taxi. The cruise port is right in the middle of town, and there are plenty of things to do within easy walking distance.

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🚢 RIGHT AT THE PORT

As soon as you step off the ship you’ll find shopping, local vendors, restaurants, and waterfront views around the Oranjestad Cruise Port area. It’s a great place to browse for souvenirs, grab a cold drink, or just enjoy the colorful Dutch-Caribbean architecture.

🚋 RIDE THE FREE ARUBA TROLLEY

One of the easiest ways to explore is the Aruba Tram. This free open-air trolley runs through downtown Oranjestad and is a fun, easy way to see the area without walking the whole time. It stops at several points along Main Street and loops back toward the cruise port.

🛍 DOWNTOWN SHOPPING

Just a few minutes from the port you’ll find Royal Plaza Mall, one of Aruba’s most recognizable buildings with its bright pink exterior. The downtown area is also known for jewelry shops, local boutiques, and duty-free stores.

🌊 WALK ALONG THE WATERFRONT

The marina and waterfront area near Renaissance Marina is perfect for a relaxed stroll. There are plenty of spots to sit, people-watch, and enjoy the view of the harbor and cruise ships.

🎰 CASINOS NEAR THE PORT

For cruisers feeling lucky, there are several casinos just steps from the port:

➤ Casino Aruba – A classic spot for slots and table games with a lively atmosphere.

➤ Radisson Casino – Attached to a hotel, offering blackjack, roulette, and poker tables.

➤ Alhambra Casino – Known for its fun vibe and convenient downtown location.

🍹 GRAB A DRINK OR BITE TO EAT

Downtown Oranjestad has plenty of casual restaurants and bars where you can cool off with a tropical drink or try local food without going far from the ship.

Popular spots cruisers enjoy near the port:

➤ Lucy's Retired Surfers Bar & Restaurant – Fun waterfront spot for tacos, seafood, and frozen drinks.

➤ The West Deck – Relaxed Caribbean restaurant overlooking the water with local dishes and big cocktails.

➤ Anker Fish Co. – Great stop for fresh seafood or ceviche close to the cruise terminal.

➤ Yemanja Woodfired Grill – A well-known spot for wood-fired seafood and grilled dishes.

🍽 MUST-TRY ARUBAN FOODS

If you want to try something local while you’re in port, look for:

➤ Pastechi – A crispy fried pastry filled with cheese, beef, chicken, or tuna.

➤ Keshi Yena – Aruba’s famous stuffed cheese dish with spiced meat.

➤ Fresh Caribbean seafood like grilled snapper, mahi-mahi, or grouper.

➤ Funchi or Pan Bati – Traditional cornmeal sides often served with island dishes.

🍹 DRINKS TO TRY IN ARUBA

➤ Aruba Ariba – The island’s signature tropical cocktail.

➤ Balashi Beer – Aruba’s local beer brewed on the island.

➤ Fresh tropical juices like mango or passion fruit.

🏖 WHAT IF YOU WANT TO GO TO THE BEACH?Taxis are easy to grab right outside the port and can take you to beautiful beaches like Eagle Beach or Palm Beach in about 10–15 minutes. Both are known for their soft white sand and clear turquoise water.

🦩 WANT TO SEE THE FAMOUS FLAMINGOS?

The flamingos you see in photos are located on Flamingo Beach, which is part of Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort. To visit, you’ll need to either stay at the resort or purchase a limited day pass. From the hotel, a short water taxi ride (about 5–10 minutes) takes you to the private island where the flamingos walk freely along the beach.

📸 PHOTO SPOTS EVERYWHERE

Between the colorful buildings, marina views, and street art, this is one of the easiest Caribbean ports to explore and get great photos — all within walking distance.

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☀️ We live local to Port Canaveral, cruise often, and love sharing what we learn along the way — Follow Me for more tips, hacks, and insider info for your next cruise!

💬 CRUISERS: When you visit Aruba, what’s your first stop — downtown exploring, the beach, flamingos, or a drink? 🍹🌴🦩