Hotels in Oranjestad

Oranjestad: Aruba's Colonial Capital on the Caribbean

Oranjestad, the capital of Aruba, sits on the island's southwest coast roughly 3 km from Queen Beatrix International Airport. Founded by the Dutch in the 18th century, the city centers on Fort Zoutman (built 1796), the oldest standing structure on the island. Dutch colonial architecture lines Wilhelminastraat, painted in mustard yellow and terracotta, while the Renaissance Mall and Royal Plaza anchor the main shopping corridor along Lloyd G. Smith Boulevard. The city's deep-water harbor accommodates multiple cruise ships simultaneously, making Oranjestad one of the Caribbean's busiest port-of-call destinations.

Where to Stay in Oranjestad

Hotels cluster along Eagle Beach and Palm Beach, both within 6–10 km of the city center, offering easy access to downtown markets and the Aruba Historical Museum inside Fort Zoutman. The Surfside Beach strip sits immediately adjacent to the capital for travelers who prefer walkable beach access. Smaller boutique properties occupy the downtown core, steps from the weekly Bon Bini Festival held every Tuesday at the fort.

Practical Tips

• Getting around: Aruba's Arubus network connects Oranjestad to Palm Beach and San Nicolas for under AWG 2.50 per ride.
• Currency: The Aruban florin (AWG) is pegged at 1.79 to the USD; USD is accepted nearly everywhere.
• Airport: Queen Beatrix International Airport is 3 km east of the city center — taxis take roughly 10 minutes.