Overview
Oranjestad is Aruba's capital and main cruise port, offering white-sand beaches, turquoise Caribbean waters, and Dutch colonial architecture within walking distance of the dock. The city draws visitors with duty-free jewelry stores, local crafts, and the island's liveliest festivals—including the annual Carnival and the Soul Beach Music Festival—while maintaining the Caribbean's lowest crime rate.
Beach · Budget Travel · Day Trips · Festivals · Nightlife
Before you go
Connectivity
WiFi is available at most accommodations and restaurants. US-style power outlets (110V) are standard. Road signs are in English.
Culture
The legal drinking age is 18, though enforcement is inconsistent. Local Balashi beer is brewed on the island. Dutch and Papiamento are official languages alongside English and Spanish.
Money
Aruba uses the US dollar, eliminating currency conversion for American visitors. Credit cards are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and larger stores. Jewelry stores offer duty-free shopping with prices significantly lower than U.S. retail.
Safety
Aruba is considered the safest Caribbean destination. Crime is minimal and panhandlers are rare. Standard travel precautions suffice.
Transport
The tram from cruise terminal to downtown costs US$1. Taxis from resort areas to downtown typically run US$8-15. Road signs are in English and driving is on the left side of the vehicle.
Weather
Average temperature is a constant 82°F (28°C) year-round. Rainfall averages 60-70mm per month, typically brief morning or evening drizzle. Aruba lies outside the hurricane belt.