Welcome to Aruba, the “One Happy Island,” a desert paradise in the southern Caribbean, renowned for its stunning white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and constant sunshine. As your cruise ship docks in Oranjestad, the island’s capital, you’re perfectly positioned to discover a wealth of delicious dining options and exciting activities, all within easy reach. Prepare to be captivated by Aruba’s unique blend of Dutch charm, Caribbean flair, and arid beauty.

A Taste of Aruba: Restaurants Near the Oranjestad Cruise Port

The Oranjestad cruise terminal area offers a diverse selection of restaurants and bars, catering to various tastes and budgets:

Driftwood Restaurant: Known for its fresh seafood, Driftwood is a popular choice for a taste of Aruban cuisine. The restaurant has a rustic, nautical theme and a lively atmosphere.
The Old Fish Saloon: Located right on the waterfront, The Old Fish Saloon offers stunning views and a casual dining experience. Enjoy fresh catches of the day, Caribbean-inspired dishes, and refreshing cocktails.
Iguana Joe’s Caribbean Bar & Grill: A colorful and lively spot in the heart of Oranjestad, Iguana Joe’s serves up Caribbean favorites with a fun twist. It’s a great place for lunch, dinner, or happy hour.
Casa Tua Pizzeria: If you’re craving Italian, Casa Tua offers delicious pizzas, pasta dishes, and salads in a relaxed setting. It’s a good option for families and those looking for a casual meal.
The Plaza Cafe: Located in the Renaissance Marketplace, The Plaza Cafe offers a variety of international dishes, from sandwiches and salads to steaks and seafood. It’s a convenient spot for a quick bite or a leisurely meal.

Beyond the immediate cruise terminal area, a short walk or taxi ride will take you to more dining options in downtown Oranjestad.

Sun, Sand, and Adventure: Fun Activities Within an Hour of Oranjestad

Aruba offers a wealth of natural beauty and exciting activities, most of which are easily accessible within an hour’s drive from the Oranjestad cruise port:

Relax on Eagle Beach or Palm Beach (Approx. 10-15 minute drive): These world-renowned beaches boast powdery white sand and calm, turquoise waters. Spend the day swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the Aruban sunshine.
Explore Arikok National Park (Approx. 20-30 minute drive): Discover Aruba’s rugged interior at Arikok National Park, home to dramatic landscapes, towering cacti, caves with Amerindian paintings, and unique geological formations.
Visit the California Lighthouse (Approx. 20-minute drive): Climb to the top of this historic lighthouse for panoramic views of the island’s coastline and the Caribbean Sea.
Go Snorkeling or Diving: Aruba’s clear waters and vibrant coral reefs offer excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities. Numerous operators offer tours departing from Oranjestad or other convenient locations.
Take a Jeep Tour: Explore Aruba’s wild side on a thrilling jeep tour, venturing off-road to discover hidden beaches, natural pools, and dramatic coastal scenery.
Visit the Natural Bridge (Now a Ruin, Approx. 30-minute drive): While the original Natural Bridge collapsed in 2005, the area still offers stunning coastal views and a smaller, adjacent natural bridge.
Explore Oranjestad: Take some time to explore Aruba’s charming capital city, with its colorful Dutch colonial architecture, duty-free shopping, and lively atmosphere.
Visit the Butterfly Farm (Approx. 15 minute drive): A serene and beautiful experience, the Butterfly Farm is home to hundreds of exotic butterflies.

Flamingo Island

Dreaming of strolling along a pristine beach with stunning pink flamingos? That iconic experience awaits you on Flamingo Island, a private oasis owned by the Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort. While staying at the resort grants you complimentary access, day passes offer a coveted opportunity for non-guests to enjoy this unique paradise. Here’s your detailed guide on how to snag those sought-after passes:

The Official Path: Renaissance Aruba iDaypass Website

The only official way to purchase day passes to Flamingo Island is through the Renaissance Aruba iDaypass website: renaissancearuba.idaypass.com. Forget calling the hotel or showing up in person; this online portal is your key.

Timing is Everything: Saturday is Your Golden Day

Mark your calendars! Island pass sales are only open every Saturday of the month. This is crucial information to remember as you plan your visit. Set a reminder, because these passes are in high demand and sell out incredibly quickly.

Limited Availability: Act Fast!

Be prepared for a virtual race against time. Only 30 passes are released per day. This limited availability underscores the importance of being prompt and ready to purchase as soon as the sales window opens.

Pricing Breakdown:

Adults (13 years and older): $130 per pass
Children (ages 6-12): $65 per pass
Children (under 5 years): Free of charge
Factor these costs into your budget as you plan your group’s visit.

Value Added: Food and Beverage Credit Included

Your day pass isn’t just an entry ticket to paradise; it also includes a valuable perk! Each pass comes with a $25 food and beverage credit that can be used at the Papagayo Restaurants located on Renaissance Island. Enjoy a delicious lunch, refreshing drinks, or snacks while soaking up the island vibes.

Your Departure Point: Wind Creek Resort

The adventure to Flamingo Island begins at the Wind Creek Resort. The boats that will whisk you away to this pink-feathered haven depart directly from the resort’s docks. Ensure you arrive at the designated boat departure area with your valid day pass ready to be scanned.

Island Hours and Boat Schedule:

Plan your day accordingly with the island’s operating hours: 7:00 AM to 6:45 PM. Getting to and from the island is convenient with boats running every 15 minutes throughout the day. This frequent schedule allows you to maximize your time on Flamingo Island.

Important Restrictions: What to Leave Behind

To preserve the delicate ecosystem and ensure the comfort of all guests (and the flamingos!), please note that the following items are prohibited on Flamingo Island:

• Food items
• Beverages
• Coolers
• Radios
• Drones

Please adhere to these rules to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Securing a day pass to Flamingo Island requires planning and a bit of luck due to its popularity and limited availability. By following these detailed instructions and being prepared on that crucial Saturday, you’ll increase your chances of experiencing the unforgettable charm of Aruba’s pink paradise!

Aruba offers a captivating blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences, all easily accessible from the cruise port. Whether you choose to unwind on its pristine beaches, explore its rugged interior, or delve into its vibrant culture, your time on the “One Happy Island” is sure to be unforgettable.

#ArubaOneHappyIsland #CaribbeanCruise #ArubaBeaches #ArubaAdventures