Come learn more about the best things to do in Oranjestad, Aruba with us. We’ll be more than happy to provide plenty of vacation ideas for your next visit to the capital of the Dutch island of Aruba. Ranging from the brilliant crystalline waters and a rugged desert, you’ll soon discover plenty of opportunities to have fun. From limestone caves to the soaring sea and natural pools, a diverse geography contains a plethora of landscapes to explore. Moreover, traversing the island can be achieved in many ways. Make your mark with 4×4 jeeps or quad racers, or by horseback riding, sailing and snorkeling.
Some Fun Things to do in Oranjestad
When you click on an affiliate link and buy something, we receive a small commission, no extra charge for you. So, for you to check off everything on your bucket list to Aruba, let’s look at ten extraordinary things to do in Oranjestad.
Discover an unforgettable underwater world off the coast of Aruba with a scuba diving expedition from S.E. Aruba Fly ‘n Dive. It starts off our wonderful list as we explore the finest things to do in Oranjestad. With no experience necessary, you will get to learn all the basic steps to become an experienced diver. Pickup at your hotel or cruise port will be provided for your half-day scuba course, along with beverages. Once there, a PADI-certified instructor will introduce you to your diving gear. Following, they will then teach you the proper techniques before you jump in the water with your guide. You will first start with a course on diving theory, which will include the logistics of breathing. Thereafter, receive a brief orientation to the gear that you will soon be adorning.
Once you feel comfortable, you will be accompanied by your instructor for an exhilarating open-water dive. This will then give you a good feel for how the sport works. At that point, you will have the opportunity to explore the waters below with a professional instructor. Afterwards, experience the tranquility of the azure waters as you swim with sea turtles. You will also get see the colorful coral reef and exotic fish close-up. After a memorable day, you will get dropped off back at your hotel after the course is completed.
Aay Parandaaaaa!!! Celebrate Aruba’s happy hour in style, with a unique tour from Kukoo Kunuku. First, hop aboard a colorful, open-air party bus. This will put you in a prime opportunity to visit a number of the best local bars. This pub crawl mission will be to transport you between watering holes. It’s safe to say that it’s one of the more interesting things to do in Oranjestad. Hotel pickup and drop-off will make for a safe, seamless experience for you. Moreover, your guide will accompany you the entire time, answering questions and providing informative commentary about each local goings-ons. Step aboard the festive bus, as you can meet your guide and fellow party-seekers. Take in all the scenery while your driver ferries you to the first of your destinations. Most likely, it may be a bar that you might not have found on your own.
Guests will have the opportunity to visit bars in both the city and the countryside. And that will be in addition to enjoying drink specials at ‘locals’ prices. Kick-off the party as you receive a complimentary Kukoo shot glass and a free shot at each bar. Additionally, you will get drink specials throughout the night at each and every location. At some of the stops, you will have the chance to show off your moves. You can hit the dance floor or learn some exciting new dances. It’s a great time to meet some island residents for a taste of local culture far from the tourist-only bars. Be sure not to miss out on this exciting whirlwind of foot-stomping fun on wheels that you won’t soon forget!
Find your winning moment with a gentle horseback ride with the Gold Mine Ranch. With this adventure, explore the northern coast of Aruba on your way to a sandy beach in Wariruri Bay. Walk, trot, and canter along with the most stunning scenery that Aruba has to offer on this remarkable journey. Ranking the finest things to do in Oranjestad – it’s a perfect idea for families, couples or groups of friends. In fact, it is whether you are an avid rider or are hopping on a horse for the first time. First, you will start at their ranch, which includes an optional pick-up and drop-off, along with a bottle of water. Meanwhile, professionally trained guides will first give you detailed instructions as your tack (equipment) is properly arranged and secured. Once you feel comfortable, you will then saddle up and hit the track horseback style.
You’ll get to pass by famous landmarks and attractions including Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins, Natural Bridge and Arikok National Park. As you enter Wariruri Bay, experience true riding at its best. Thereafter, gallop through the white dunes right on the magnificent coastline. Your guide and photographer can also help assist with any photo-opts, including posing under Baby Natural Bridge.
Experience the amazing waters of Aruba like never before with an exhilarating jet skiing ride from Around Aruba Tours. Both thrilling and exciting, it’s the ideal option for our ranking of the top things to do in Oranjestad. If you love speed, this is the perfect activity for you! Pick-up will be offered at your location, as you are taken to their place of business on Eagle Beach. You will then receive a brief orientation on how the vehicle works and safety instructions. It’s good to know that riding a jet ski doesn’t require any specialized training, Moreover, each individual vehicle can accommodate up to two people.You need to be over the age of 16 if you are a driver. Meanwhile, passengers can be of the age 5 and up. A life jacket and fuel will be provided on your adventure with no hidden fees.
Take the wheel and explore the entire area at your own pace. Go fast or go slow, but always remember, you’re in control. Guides will also be more than happy to suggest where to go during your ride. Come across beautiful blue waters and the coolest breezes firsthand. Then receive remarkable views of the surrounding coastline. They include the pristine white-sands and the renowned fofoti trees, along with the famous hotel strip. The duration of this motorized water sport runs about 30 minutes, so be sure to make every minute memorable!
Kini Kini Transfer & Tours invites you to get on the most thrilling ATV Tour in Aruba on this half-day guided tour. When it comes to the greatest things to do in Oranjestad, this one is a win-win! Feel the force of the wind in your face as you explore the rocky windward coasts and take control of an All-Terrain-Vehicle. Subsequently, you’ll get to explore the rugged shorelines, rolling desserts and challenging terrain on your 4WD ATV. Feel in control as knowledgeable tour guides will lead you through a truly unique adventure to Aruba’s wild side. Things can get a little dirty as you journey through the rugged back roads. And especially as you head to the island’s scenic seaside bluffs and beaches, so make sure you are prepared.
Pay a visit to breath-taking landmarks in the surrounding area. Visit sights such as Alto Vista Chapel, Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins, Natural Bridge, Natural Pool, Andicuri Beach and Blackstone Beach. Included in the price, receive a bottle of water, a helmet, as well as both pick-up and drop-off service. Finally, you need to be at least 18 years of age and have a valid driver’s license to drive. Anyone under 18 must be a passenger on this incredible adventure on land.
Ranked as the #1 with Outdoor Activities in Oranjestad by TripAdvisor, get ready to let loose. Groove to the beat of tropical rhythms aboard Aruba’s colorful “beach bus” tour from RockaBeach Tours. It sneaks in as the fifth entry of our look at the top things to do in Oranjestad. Simply sit back, relax, and admire the spectacular views as you listen to Caribbean tunes. Firstly, your driver and guide take you to key landmarks as you drive in an open-air vehicle. You’ll get acquainted with the island and learn how music plays an important role to Arubans. Be ready for action as soon as you get picked up from your hotel or cruise-ship port. Next, board the vibrantly colored bus, and kick off your festive sightseeing tour. Your journey begins in Oranjestad where you will learn about the island’s rich history, passing by legendary historical sites.
The road to paradise continues as you make your way to popular landmarks in the area. They include Natural Bridge, Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins, Alto Vista Chapel, Casibari Rock Formation and the California Lighthouse. At each key stop, you have approximately 15 to 20 minutes to snap some photos. Prepare to pack your bathing suit for this extraordinary experience. You will have the opportunity to make stops to snorkel and swim right off the beach for an hour. Lastly, snacks and water will also be included with your tour.
Set sail along the Aruba coast aboard the Jolly Pirates Cruises’ teak schooners on a breathtaking three-hour afternoon cruise. Ranking all the nicest things to do in Oranjestad, get ready to bring out your inner explorer with this expedition. Experience ever-changing scenery firsthand as this classic 85-foot teak schooner gracefully glides toward the historic California Lighthouse. To begin, make your way north to MooMba Beach, where you will meet the crew of a fully-equipped pirate schooner. Once boarded, you can lounge around on the sun deck as you take in the scenic views. Moreover, adults can also sip on a luscious libation from the unlimited open bar. If you need to avoid the hot sun, a shaded canopy area is available. The well-informed crew will be happy to point out all the best spots. Showcasing a WWII 400-foot German freighter shipwreck, you’ll receive a brief history of the Antilla.
Discover shallow reef formations come to life at Boca Catalina. Be in awe of the colorful coral and sea life, sea turtles, oodles of tropical fish and sponges. With snorkel gear provided, you can swim or snorkel in the turquoise waters of Malmok and Catalina Bay. Finally, your exciting expedition will then conclude at the original departure point.
All aboard for an unforgettable voyage to the depths of 130-feet below the surface of the ocean. Set out to sea with an underworld adventure from De Palm Tours. Voted Aruba’s most outstanding attraction, it makes an incredible impression with the top-rated things to do in Oranjestad. So, go ahead and hop aboard the Atlantis Submarine, which is the largest passenger submarine fleet in the world. This unique undersea boat is not only U.S. Coast Guard approved, but fully air-conditioned and environmentally friendly. Ensuring security and comfort, a full safety briefing will be held before the tour begins. Be sure to grab a window seat as you prepare for the dive. Perfect for underwater photography, you will have the opportunity to view the Barcadera Reef close-up. Moreover, this amazing reef ecosystem features a beautiful sandy bottom. Add into the mix, a gargantuan number of tropical fish, lobster and moray eels.
It all starts in 15-feet of water then goes to about 80-feet below the water’s surface. Additionally, you’ll get outstanding views of local shipwrecks, including a history of the crashed ships through your crew’s informative commentary. After you surface and head back to land, you’ll receive an official dive certificate to take home.
Not always accessible by car or bus, take on the challenge of an exhilarating off-road 4WD Jeep tour from ABC Tours Aruba. For those looking for something more action-packed with things to do in Oranjestad – you’ve clearly met your match. Offering plush seats, you’ll have the great opportunity to ride in a 4×4 Land Rover. This incredible outing starts early in the morning with pick-up service. Thereafter, you are taken to their place of business. where you will meet your guide for a quick safety briefing. After that, a small caravan of Jeeps will depart, leaving civilization behind on the way to the first stop. You’ll get to spend time at major tourist attractions such as Natural Pool, Fontein Coce and Baby Beach. Learn about each place from your guide as you make additional stops. Visit California Lighthouse, Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins, and the Natural Bridge, perfect for photo opportunities.
For those who like to dive the beautiful waters below, snorkel equipment will be provided to those who prefer exploration. About the mid-way point of the tour, a barbecue lunch will be included. The off-roading tour concludes with photo-op stops at Alto Vista Chapel and Anchor in Memory of All Seamen. Finally, you will then be taken to your hotel drop-off.
Ready to bring our your inner adventurer? We got a playground just for you! Experience a fun-filled day for families and kids of all ages awaits with an extraordinary visit to De Palm Island. This incredible opportunity from De Palm Tours lands top spot with the greatest things to do in Oranjestad. As a matter of fact, De Palm Island is a private island playground that provides an incredible all-inclusive experience. Moreover, it’s home to a beautiful flock of gentle flamingos that enjoy life in a reserved section of the island. Your passport to paradise kicks off with a hotel pickup and transportation via a comfortable motorcoach. Experience the joy of ultimate relaxation or try to choose from a variety of exciting activities. Adventure aficionados can rejoice, as they embark on a sea trek or experience snorkeling in a nearby coral reef.
The littlest ones in your tribe will have a whale of a time at the water park on property. Children can zip down slides, go under water showers, shoot water cannons or get soaked by a tipping bucket. While the kiddos play, adults can take in the breathtaking scenery from their beachside chairs. Grab the fam together as you beat the heat and ride the waves. Get your adrenaline pumping as you all hop on a banana boat for a splashing surprise. Furthermore, visitors can cha-cha their way and take part in salsa lessons. Additionally, try gathering a team together for a challenging game of beach volleyball and soccer. Afterwards, an open bar will be willing to take on any requests. And that will be in addition to a complimentary lunch buffet spotlighting local and Caribbean fare. After an adventurous day, receive a drop-off at your hotel.
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