Explore Aruba’s Capital | Things to Do in Oranjestad

Aerial view of Aruba's capital city: things to do in Oranjestad

Stay in the heart of Aruba’s capital city with Blue Aruba Rentals and experience our island’s rich culture just steps from Harbour House. Stay in our properties overlooking the beautiful Oranjestad Marina and discover fantastic shopping, dining, and museums nearby. Whether you want to learn local history at a museum or find the perfect souvenir at the shopping malls, there are endless things to do in Oranjestad Aruba. Discover everything downtown has to offer and experience the perfect blend of island relaxation and urban living.

Shopping

Oranjestad is the shopping hub of the island, offering something for everyone:

  • Shop from your favorite fashion brands and designers at Renaissance Mall 
  • Visit the Royal Plaza Mall, one of downtown’s most colorful landmarks, and shop from luxury stores, souvenir shops, and jewelers.
  • Enjoy boutique shopping at Renaissance Marketplace, where you can find apparel, eyewear, jewelry, beauty products, and souvenirs. 
  • Hop on the free trolley that travels along Main Street and enjoy panoramic views of downtown. Stop along the way for some fantastic souvenir shopping!

Museums

Learn all about the fascinating history of Aruba at our local museums. Start your journey at Fort Zoutman, the oldest building in Oranjestad, housing the island’s Historical Museum. Learn about the Spanish and Dutch periods through historical documents and the historic Willem III Tower next to the fort. Plan your visit on Tuesday and attend the Bon Bini Festival for a night of folkloric music, dance, local art, and food. 

Visit the National Archaeological Museum of Aruba and learn about over 3,500 years of Aruban culture and history. Walk through the interactive exhibitions and discover the island’s archaeological history!

Dining

Discover many dining options downtown, including Lima Bistro and Ever Restaurant at Harbour House. Stop at Lima for delicious Peruvian cuisine overlooking the marina, and visit Ever Restaurant for an eight-course fine dining experience. And if you are craving something else, there are dozens more downtown restaurants to check out nearby:

Book Your Stay at Harbour House in Downtown Oranjestad 

Book your Aruba getaway at Harbour House and stay close to all the fantastic things to do in Oranjestad. Walk down the road and watch boats come in at the cruise terminal, or walk down for some excellent shopping at the Aruba flea market. Return to Harbour House and take advantage of our on-site amenities like 24-hour security, an elevated pool area, a fitness center, a hot tub, and concierge services. Find the perfect Oranjestad vacation rental with Blue Aruba today!

The Best Aruba Tours for Your Vacation

People riding on horseback during Aruba tours

Aruba is known for its breathtaking scenery and beautiful Caribbean waters. From watching a stunning sunset to dining at a restaurant on the beach, there are countless ways to take in picturesque views. While you can enjoy self-guided outings, sometimes the best way to explore the island is with a little help. There are several kinds of Aruba tours to choose from, all of which will show off everything this island has to offer. To help you decide which excursions to add to your itinerary, the team at Blue Aruba Rentals has compiled a list of popular options.

Ride Around in a Jeep

A popular way to explore the island is by Jeep. ABC Tours Aruba offers half-day and full-day caravan-style tours, including trips to places like the Natural Pool and Baby Beach. Another excellent option is Isla Aruba Tours, which offers several private tours, including a customized adventure.

Go Below the Surface Snorkeling

Aruba’s picturesque scenery doesn’t stop at the water’s surface. There’s a whole colorful underwater world to explore on snorkeling expeditions. Set sail with De Palm Tours Aruba on one of two different tours, both of which include stops at beautiful locations. For a unique way to reach your snorkeling destination, check out Jolly Pirates Sailing Cruises & Snorkeling.

Set Off Horseback Riding

Not only is the sandy shoreline perfect for romantic strolls, but it’s also the prime location to go horseback riding. There are several services close to our Aruba vacation rentals that are perfect for riders of all ages and skill levels. The Gold Mine Ranch Aruba has a few different rides to choose from, and Rancho La Ponderosa offers both a morning and afternoon excursion.

Reserve a UTV or ATV Ride

Going on an ATV or UTV tour takes you to places other motorized tours can only dream of. For more than six decades, De Palms Tours has been showcasing some of Aruba’s hidden gems courtesy of its off-road UTV tour. Choose from a single or double ATV outing from Kini Kini ATV Tour, and you’ll see landmarks like the Cave Natural Pool and Bushiribana Ruins.

Book Your Aruba Home Base

Before reserving your Aruba tours, it’s important to book your home base from Blue Aruba Rentals. Our inventory includes condo rentals at some of the best properties near Eagle Beach, including Azure Beach, Oceania, and Blue Residences. We also have vacation rentals at Harbour House, located in downtown Aruba. Browse our luxury vacation condos and find your dream rental today!

Where to Witness a Dazzling Aruba Sunset on Vacation

View of Aruba sunset over the beach

After a day of island adventures, we invite you to watch a breathtaking Aruba sunset. As the leading vacation rental company on the island, Blue Aruba Rentals is here to give you insight into the island’s best sunset spots. Witness the sun dip below the horizon from your Eagle Beach condo rental, the California Lighthouse, on a luxurious sail, or from a beachfront restaurant. Check the sunset time during your visit and read on to uncover the best vantage points on the island:

Aruba Sunset Cruises

Witness the Aruba sunset from the water with one of these boat cruises or sailing experiences:

  • Sign up for a Sunset Cruise with Pelican Adventures and sail along Aruba on a luxurious custom-built catamaran. All trips include an unlimited open bar, tropical cocktails, snacks, and music. Pair your cruise with a three-course dinner at Pelican Nest Seafood Grill. 
  • If you visit with kids, Jolly Pirates Sailing offers the perfect outing for the entire family. Reserve the Sunset Pirate Ship Sail Cruise and enjoy scenic sunset views and fun pirate-themed activities. 
  • Discover the ultimate romantic evening on the water with Octopus Catamaran Happy Hour Sunset Sail. Kick back in the luxury lounge seats and enjoy a scenic sunset sail in the Palm Beach area. 

California Lighthouse

California Lighthouse is one of the top places to watch an Aruba sunset, offering 360-degree views of the island. Climb to the top of the lighthouse at sunset and witness the sun descend into the Caribbean Sea, backdropped by beaches and coral shorelines. 

Watch the Sunset from an Aruba Restaurant

Aruba’s beachfront restaurants offer the perfect setting to unwind and watch the sunset. Book your reservation around sunset time and enjoy a delicious meal as you watch the sky transform into a canvas of gold, orange, and pink. Just imagine watching the sunset from one of these beachfront eateries while sipping on tropical cocktails, feasting on fresh seafood, and feeling the sea breeze in your hair:

Watch an Aruba Sunset from Your Condo Rental

Book your getaway with Blue Aruba Rentals and witness Aruba sunsets from your condo rental at Blue Residences, Azure Beach Residences, and Oceania Residences. These condos are steps away from Eagle Beach so that you can watch the sunset from the sand or your balcony overlooking the beach. We also offer Harbour House properties overlooking the Oranjestad Marina with a fantastic sundeck offering 360-degree views. Book your Aruba condo rental with us today!

Attend the Soul Beach Music Festival in Aruba

People attending a nighttime concert at Soul Beach Music Festival in Aruba

Are you looking for lodging near the Soul Beach Music Festival in Aruba? Look no further than Blue Aruba Rentals and our Harbour House properties in downtown Aruba! Stay close to the action and easily access the music concerts at Harbor Arena, just a five-minute drive down the road. Soak up the sun during SBMF and experience a weekend full of star-studded concerts, comedy shows, and beach parties. Book your Aruba condo rental today and read on to learn more about what to expect at this year’s festival:

Schedule of Events

The Soul Beach Music Festival is held in Aruba annually over Memorial Day weekend. The 2024 festival kicks off on Wednesday, May 22nd, and ends on Monday, May 27th. You can find the schedule of events on the official website of SBMF, but here is a preview of what to expect:

  • Concerts are hosted at the outdoor Harbor Arena off LG Smith Road. The 2024 headliners are Mariah Carey and Boyz II Men!
  • The Comedy Concert will be hosted at Renaissance Wind Creek Festival Plaza, just a five-minute walk from Harbour House. The 2024 headliner is Earthquake!
  • Nightclub Parties are hosted at various venues throughout the island, featuring guest DJs.
  • Beach Parties are hosted at Moomba Beach in the Palm Beach area, except for the Sunday party at Baby Beach. 

Read the FAQ page for more information about getting to the island, ground transportation, and ticket information. Purchase your tickets for the music festival today!

Aruba Soul Beach Music Festival Lodging

Reserve lodging for the Soul Beach Music Festival at Harbour House with Blue Aruba Rentals today! Harbour House condos are located downtown and overlook the beautiful Oranjestad Marina. Our rentals range from studio to three-bedroom condos to accommodate groups of all sizes visiting for the festival. No matter where you stay, you can enjoy access to resort amenities, such as:

  • Infinity pool overlooking the Oranjestad Marina
  • Fitness center featuring the latest gym equipment
  • Exclusive sundeck with hot tub
  • Award-winning restaurants on-site: Lima Bistro & Ever Restaurant
  • 24-hour security service
  • High-speed internet access

Reserve your room at Harbour House today, and we’ll see you during the Soul Beach Music Festival!

5 Aruba Restaurants on the Beach to Try on Vacation

Tables set up at Aruba restaurants on the beach at sunset

Blue Aruba Rentals is proud to offer premium beachfront properties on the beautiful island of Aruba! Book your vacation rental in Eagle Beach with us and enjoy on-site dining at Po-KĂ© Ono and Infini by Urvin Crose. Or stay in Oranjestad and enjoy exceptional dining at Lima Bistro and Ever Restaurant steps from your condo rental. Discover even more dining options at our Aruba restaurants on the beach and enjoy waterfront views, fresh seafood, tasty cocktails, and live entertainment. 

Whether you are looking for a casual eatery where you can watch the sunset or an elevated date night spot for you and your loved one, there is a destination for everyone: 

1. MooMba Beach Bar & Restaurant

Enjoy fantastic food, drinks, music, and views at MooMba Beach Bar & Restaurant, between the Marriott and the Holiday Inn. Sit in the restaurant’s outdoor seating area and enjoy ocean views as you dine on fresh seafood or pinchos. After your meal, head to the beachfront bar for tasty cocktails and live entertainment!

2. Passions On The Beach

Visit Passions On The Beach for a romantic torchlight dinner on Eagle Beach overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Indulge in some of the island’s highest-quality meat and seafood, including grouper, mahi mahi, red snapper, and filet mignon. They also offer a beach bar for breakfast, lunch, or late-night cocktails!

3. Barefoot Restaurant

Barefoot Restaurant is located in Oranjestad, approximately 20 minutes from our resort area. They are known for offering “elegant dining in flip flops,” combining fine dining with a relaxed beach setting. They offer delicious fish, meat, and vegetarian entrees to appeal to everyone’s taste buds. Pair your meal with an exquisite cocktail or glass of wine!

4. Atardi

If you are looking for Aruba restaurants on the beach for your date night, we recommend Atardi. Enjoy a private beachfront dining experience complemented by romantic sunset views and carefully prepared culinary delights. Their dinner menu highlights the Chilean Sea Bass, but they offer entrees like creole red snapper and Caribbean lobster tail. Elements is another fantastic date-night restaurant!

5. Matthew’s Beachside Restaurant

If you are looking for a casual beachfront eatery, we recommend Matthew’s Beachside Restaurant. Stop in for their daily happy hour, take in water views, and enjoy tasty seafood like grouper, corvina, octopus, seabass, and more!

Book Your Aruba Beachfront Vacation Rental

Many of these Aruba restaurants on the beach are just a short drive away from our Aruba vacation rentals in Eagle Beach. Browse our collection of Aruba condo rentals near the beach in Blue Residences, Azure Beach Residences, and Oceania Residences. Discover even more condo rentals at Harbour House overlooking the beautiful Oranjestad Marina. Enjoy amenities like beach access, pools, fitness rooms, tennis courts, and on-site dining. Book your Caribbean getaway in Aruba today!

Long-Term Rentals in Aruba for the Ultimate Workcation

Person sitting on the beach and working on their laptop, long term rentals in Aruba for your workcation

Thanks to the flexibility of remote jobs, workcations have become a popular way to combine work and play! Workcations or working vacations offer a fantastic opportunity to break out of your routine and travel to an inspiring location while working remotely. Discover inspiration on the beautiful island of Aruba with Bue Aruba Vacation Rentals. Reserve our workcation special and save up to 30% on select long-term rentals in Aruba. Plan your extended stay and take advantage of our free WiFi, amazing views, and open spaces!

Aruba Workcation Special

Blue Aruba Rentals is offering an exclusive promo for extended stays now through November 30, 2024. Receive up to 30% discount on a stay of more than 28 days on certain units. Please contact us directly at info@bluearuba.com or +1 844 999 2425 for more information about the properties available for extended stays. Let us assist you with planning the perfect workcation!

Benefits of Working Remotely with Blue Aruba Rentals

  • Free high-speed WiFi in our vacation rentals
  • Amazing views to inspire you and provide a scenic backdrop for meetings
  • Access to open spaces, including beaches, gardens, tennis courts, and pools 
  • Use of amenities like fitness center and tennis courts
  • On-site wellness activities, including yoga, tennis clinics, and paddleboard tours.
  • 24/7 security 

Aruba Long-Term Rentals Amenities

Blue Aruba Vacation Rentals represents properties in Harbour House, Oceania, Blue, and Azure Beach Residences. No matter where you stay, you will have access to essential amenities on your property, such as:

  • Kitchen
  • Private Entrance
  • Parking
  • WiFi with speeds of 100mbps
  • Washer and dryer
  • Air conditioning
  • Access to swimming pool, spa, and gym

Top Activities in Aruba

After you clock out for the day, check out everything our island paradise has to offer. Read through our Blue Aruba blog posts for vacation inspiration!

  • Spend time unwinding at our picturesque Aruba beaches: Eagle Beach, Palm Beach, and Arashi Beach.
  • Explore Arikok National Park and hike through the native flora and fauna of the Caribbean.
  • Discover endless water activities like fishing, kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, and windsurfing.

Book Long-Term Rentals in Aruba Today

Start planning your Caribbean workcation today and discover the best long-term rentals in Aruba for your getaway! Blue Aruba is the number one vacation home rental company on the island, offering more than 200 condos to suit your needs. Please contact us directly to confirm availability and request a personalized quote. Your Aruba workcation awaits!

The Ultimate Guide to Shopping in Aruba

View of shopping mall in Aruba, featuring colorful architecture

Enjoy a day of shopping in Aruba during your Caribbean vacation with Blue Aruba Rentals! Immerse yourself in the colorful streets of Oranjestad, where Dutch-inspired architecture and colorful buildings set the stage for a one-of-a-kind shopping experience. From bustling shopping malls featuring luxury brands to specialty shops selling locally made items, you are sure to find the perfect souvenir! 

Shopping Malls in Aruba

Renaissance Mall

Renaissance Mall is a shopping center in Oranjestad where you can find all of your favorite luxury fashion brands and designers.

Renaissance Marketplace

Renaissance Marketplace is just a 10-minute walk from the Renaissance Mall, offering fantastic boutique shopping. Shop for apparel, eyewear, resort wear, jewelry, beauty products, and souvenirs!

Palm Beach Plaza Mall

Palm Beach Plaza Mall is Aruba’s largest mall, offering 15,000 square feet of shopping in Noord. Shop for jewelry, shoes, apparel, accessories, art, and more here!

Royal Plaza Mall

Royal Plaza Mall offers a fun and colorful shopping experience just across the street from the cruise ship terminal. Shop for luxury brands, exclusive jewelry, souvenirs, and more!

Paseo Herencia Mall

Paseo Herencia Mall is an old-style plaza in the Noord region, selling fashion, beachwear, jewelry, and souvenirs. 

The Local Market

The Local Market is Aruba’s biggest outdoor market, offering a wide selection of Dutch-style market stalls selling locally made products. 

Specialty Shops in Aruba

Aruba Aloe Factory Museum and Store

Aruba is home to one of the last Aloe companies in the world that grows, harvests, and processes all of its aloe on-site. A visit to the Aruba Aloe Factory Museum and Store is a must. After your tour, visit the store and find aloe products like lotions, soaps, skin care gels, hair products, lip balms, and more!

Cigar Emporium

Shop Aruba’s largest collection of Cuban cigars at Cigar Emporium. It is located in the Royal Plaza Mall area. 

Coconuts

Shop for locally-made clothing, accessories, and souvenirs at Coconuts! From beachwear to handmade souvenirs, there is something for everyone here!

Book Your Aruba Vacation Rental Today

Find the perfect souvenir for your Caribbean getaway while shopping in Aruba. Stay with Blue Aruba Rentals and find the perfect Aruba condo rental in the Eagle Beach area. Browse over 230 condos in Blue, Azure Beach, Oceania Residences, and Harbour House properties. Book your Aruba vacation with us today!

Answering FAQ’s: Aruba Car Rentals, Travel Info, Weather, & More!

Aruba welcome sign

If you have never visited Aruba, you probably have several questions about visiting our island paradise. Luckily, Blue Aruba Rentals is here to answer your questions and give you insight on traveling to Aruba. From entry requirements to the best Aruba car rentals to get around the island, we have it all covered! Read on to discover our frequently asked questions, and book your Caribbean getaway today!

Q1: Where is Aruba?

Aruba is located in the Southern Caribbean Sea and is part of the Lesser Antilles islands. The island is approximately 15 miles off the coast of Venezuela. 

Q2: How Do You Get to Aruba?

Aruba is accessible by cruise port or flying. Check the Cruiseship schedules from the Port of Aruba to learn more about getting to our island via cruise. You can also fly into the Queen Beatrix International Airport from most major U.S. cities!

Q3: When is the Best Time to Visit Aruba?

Anytime! We offer warm-weather year-round and endless events to plan your vacation around. Generally, the high season is from mid-December until mid-April, and the low season is from mid-April until mid-December. 

Q4: What Language and Currency is Used in Aruba?

The mother tongue of Aruba is Papiamento, but many residents also speak English, Dutch, and Spanish. The currency used is florin. 

Q5: What are the Aruba Entry Requirements?

Read through the Aruba entry requirements to determine everything you need for travel! The basics include a passport, an approved Embarkation and Disembarkation card, and required vaccinations.

Q6: What Should I Pack for Aruba?

Utilize the Aruba packing list when preparing for your trip! Some essential items include sunscreen, bathing suits, beachwear, sandals, and sunglasses.

Q7: What is the Best Way to Get Around Aruba?

If you are flying into the airport, we recommend reserving an Aruba car rental or transfer. If you are looking for alternative transportation, we recommend taking public transportation, the bus, or a taxi.

Q8: What is There to Do in Aruba?

We are famous for our beaches, but there are plenty of other things to do in Aruba! Our Happy Island also offers incredible natural wonders, water activities, tours, golf, nightlife, shopping, dining, and events. Check out our blog for more vacation ideas!

Where Should I Stay in Aruba?

Blue Aruba Rentals is the number one vacation home rental company in Aruba! We offer the perfect lodging for your Aruba getaway with our premium beachfront properties. Discover our vacation rentals in the Blue, Azure Beach, and Oceania Residences complexes. Enjoy the island’s best amenities, including beach access, concierge services, fitness rooms, and on-site restaurants. We also offer Harbour House properties for visitors who want to stay in the heart of downtown. If you have any additional questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us before booking your Aruba getaway!

Stay with Blue Aruba Rentals for the Aruba Beach Tennis Championships

Photo of beach tennis equipment in the sand

The Aruba Open Beach Tennis Championships are just around the corner! For over a decade, Aruba has hosted this championship tournament in November at Bushiri Beach, showcasing some of the most talented players in the sport. Join thousands of spectators on our island paradise to witness the most elite beach tennis players compete for prize money. Stay with Blue Aruba Rentals at Harbour House and access the tournament just around the corner from your vacation rental!

Aruba Open Beach Tennis

The Aruba Open will be held November 12-19, 2023 at Bushiri Beach. The Aruba Open is one of the leading beach tennis events, welcoming over 1,200 participants from over 40 countries yearly! Eight tournaments will be played, including singles, mixed doubles, and team cups. Learn more about the rules and regulations for each tournament here. 

2023 Schedule

The Aruba Open will kick off on Sunday, November 12, 2023, with the Pro Doubles Invitational Cup. Each day ends with live music on the stage, and the tournament ends with a fun afterparty with a live DJ! Review the 2023 program schedule to learn more about the time and date of each event. 

Play Beach Tennis in Aruba

Stay with Blue Aruba Rentals and try beach tennis for yourself, steps away from your Aruba condo rental. Our Blue and Azure Residences offer on-site beach tennis courts so you can play without leaving the resort area. Or contact us, and we can help you arrange beach tennis classes with top professionals on the island. Discover even more beach tennis courts in Aruba at:

Plan Your Getaway During the Aruba Open Championships

Plan your Caribbean getaway around the Aruba Open this November with Blue Aruba Rentals! We manage more than 200 condos with easy access to the beach tennis tournament. Our Harbour House properties are just a short walk away from the event. And our Oceania, Blue, and Azure Beach Residences are just a five-minute drive to Bushiri Beach! Discover the convenient amenities of our properties, from concierge services to our very own beach tennis court. 

We can’t wait to host your group for the epic Aruba Open Beach Tennis Championships!

How to Plan the Perfect Aruba Honeymoon

View couple on the water enjoying an Aruba honeymoon

The Caribbean is one of the most sought-after honeymoon destinations in the world, known for its pristine beaches, year-round sunshine, and diverse islands. Couples looking for a blend of relaxation, exploration, and adventure will find the perfect honeymoon in Aruba! Blue Aruba Rentals invites you to celebrate your nuptials in paradise in one of our 200 condo rentals on the island.

Whether you are looking to lounge on pristine white sand beaches, explore Arikok National Park, or embark on a romantic sailing cruise, our Happy Island offers something for every type of honeymooner!

Where to Stay for Your Aruba Honeymoon

Blue Aruba Rentals is the top vacation home rental company in Aruba, and we provide the perfect setting for your honeymoon! We focus on personalized service and premium beachfront properties with convenient amenities to make your romantic getaway memorable from start to finish. Choose one of our romantic studio condos at Blue Residences, Azure Beach Residences, Oceania Residences, or Harbour House

For example, our Blue and Azure Beach Residences offer a wealth of amenities to make your honeymoon memorable without leaving the resort. Enjoy pampering at the on-site spa, set up island tours at the concierge desk, cool down at the infinity pools, relax on the island’s most popular beaches, play beach tennis, and enjoy romantic dining!

5 Things to Do During Your Aruba Honeymoon

1. Attend the Aruba Vow Renewal Ceremony

Aruba hosts the Caribbean’s largest vow renewal ceremony at Eagle Beach every year. Plan your Aruba honeymoon in August and renew your vows in paradise!

2. Spend Time at Aruba Beaches

Both of our beachfront condo complexes are steps away from Aruba’s most popular beaches, Eagle and Palm Beach. Spend quality time together at our beaches swimming, snorkeling, strolling, sailing, and more!

3. Explore the Great Outdoors

Adventurous honeymooners will fall in love with Aruba’s great outdoors! Arikok National Park comprises 20% of the island and offers unique geological, cultural, and historical sites. Discover the park’s natural wonders with a guided horseback ride or ATV tour

4. Embark on a Romantic Sunset Cruise in Aruba

Embark on an Aruba catamaran or sailing trip from Palm Beach and explore the Caribbean at sunset! Or experience the ultimate luxury and romance with a private sailing tour with Monforte Luxury Cruise

5. Enjoy Pampering at Aruba Spas

Indulge in some pampering during your honeymoon at an Aruba spa! Access Blue Oxygen Spa from your condo rental and sign up for treatments like massages, facials, manicures, and hair care services. If you are looking for a spa with private couples rooms, we recommend Mandara Spa!

Book Your Aruba Honeymoon with Blue Aruba Rentals Today!

Make your Aruba honeymoon dreams a reality with Blue Aruba Rentals. Choose from three different resort experiences, each with its own personality and style. Or contact us directly at 1-844-999-2425 and let us help you find the perfect Aruba vacation rental for your Caribbean honeymoon today!