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Cruise Port Day: The Essential Aruba Island Highlights

A cruise day in Aruba is best spent balancing iconic island landmarks with laid-back beach relaxation. Taxis and open-air island tour vans are readily available outside the cruise terminal. If you are exploring independ…

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A cruise day in Aruba is best spent balancing iconic island landmarks with laid-back beach relaxation. Taxis and open-air island tour vans are readily available outside the cruise terminal. If you are exploring independently, local US dollars and major credit cards are universally accepted. Be sure to stay hydrated in the sunny Caribbean climate, sample the crisp local Balashi beer, and give yourself ample cushion to return to the cruise port before ship all-aboard times.

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Day 1: Port Highlights, Scenic North Coast & Beach Escape

This one-day itinerary covers Aruba's signature landmarks starting straight from the cruise terminal in Oranjestad. Head north through the resort areas to historic coastal landmarks before spending the afternoon sipping local beer by the water at MooMba Beach.

  1. Port of OranjestadAruba Cruise Terminal, Oranjestad, Aruba

    Disembark at the cruise port where you can easily find local taxis, tour vans, or walking routes into the capital.

    Watch the source moment on YouTube ↗
  2. Downtown OranjestadMain Street, Oranjestad, Aruba

    Walk through the colorful Dutch colonial architecture, bustling shopping arcades, and harbor promenade in Oranjestad.

    Watch the source moment on YouTube ↗
  3. I Love Aruba SignI Love Aruba Sign, Lloyd G. Smith Blvd, Oranjestad, Aruba

    Stop by the famous oversized 'I Love Aruba' sign for an iconic vacation photo op right by the waterfront.

    Watch the source moment on YouTube ↗
  4. Eagle BeachEagle Beach, J.E. Irausquin Blvd, Aruba

    Drive along Eagle Beach, famous for its wide stretch of soft white sand and signature fofoti trees.

    Watch the source moment on YouTube ↗
  5. Alto Vista ChapelAlto Vista Chapel, Noord, Aruba

    Visit the historic stone chapel of Alto Vista, tucked away in the arid landscape overlooking the north coast.

    Watch the source moment on YouTube ↗
  6. California LighthouseCalifornia Lighthouse, Hudishibana, Aruba

    Take in panoramic 360-degree views of the island's rocky northern coastline from California Lighthouse.

    Watch the source moment on YouTube ↗
  7. MooMba Beach Bar & RestaurantMooMba Beach Bar & Restaurant, J.E. Irausquin Blvd 230, Noord, Aruba

    Unwind under the palapas at MooMba Beach. The creator recommends ordering a refreshing Balashi beer, Aruba's locally brewed favorite.

    Watch the source moment on YouTube ↗