7 Best Things to Do in Aruba When You Only Have 6 Hours
Ah, Aruba — the “A” in the ABC Islands of the Dutch Caribbean, where flamingos strut, the sun always seems to be smiling, and the water is such a shade of turquoise it would make a gemstone blush. But here’s the kicker: you’ve only got six hours. Maybe your ship, probably docked in Oranjestad, is treating you to a teaser of paradise before whisking you away. Fear not, fellow cruiser — I’ve spent years hopping on and off ships, and I’m here to show you how to squeeze every bit of joy out of Aruba in half a day.
1. Hit Eagle Beach Like a Pro
Let’s start with the fact that Eagle Beach isn’t just a postcard-perfect strip of sand — it’s been voted one of the best beaches in the world. Soft white sand, Divi Divi trees bending from the trade winds like lazy yoga instructors, and water so clear you’ll think your contacts finally kicked in.
Insider Tip: Head to the northern end for fewer crowds and a better angle for that classic Divi Divi tree selfie. You’ll likely share the sand with more iguanas than tourists — which, in my opinion, is a win.
Practical Advice: A 15-minute taxi from the port will get you there quickly. Just be sure to agree on the rate before you get in the cab — taxis in Aruba are government-regulated, but prices still vary slightly.
2. Stroll Through Oranjestad’s Colorful Charms
If you’ve ever wanted to visit the Caribbean… via Amsterdam’s wardrobe, Oranjestad delivers. The capital of Aruba is a charming mix of colonial Dutch facades, cheery pastel buildings, open-air shopping, and iguana sightings that are part of daily life.
Stroll L.G. Smith Boulevard, pop into a local café for fresh pastechi (Think empanada’s flirtier cousin), or stop by the historic Fort Zoutman and its King Willem III Tower. Yes, it sounds dull—but trust me, the views from the tower are anything but.
Little-Known Fact: There’s a free trolley that loops around town. It’s electric, charmingly kitschy, and lets you see the highlights without melting into a puddle of Caribbean sweat.
3. Snorkel with Tropical Royalty at Mangel Halto
Ready to trade land legs for fins? Mangel Halto is a snorkeler’s hidden haven. Unlike more tourist-thronged spots, this mangrove-fringed bay offers calmer waters, vibrant coral reefs, and a front-row seat to parrotfish, blue tangs, and the occasional moray eel doing its best impromptu horror movie impression.
Pro Cruiser Tip: Grab a snorkel tour with a local operator that’ll pick you up from the cruise port. You’ll save time and get guided access to the prime underwater real estate.
4. Explore Aruba’s Cactus-Studded Desert in Arikok National Park
Surprise! Aruba isn’t just about white sand and turquoise waters — head inland and you’ll discover a desert heart full of spiky cacti, rugged hills, cave paintings, and native wildlife with attitude (hello, Aruba rattlesnake and wild donkeys!).
Know Before You Go: The park covers nearly 20% of the island, so with limited time, I suggest booking a 2-hour guided ATV or Jeep safari tour. Hold on tight — it’s bumpy, dusty, and so much fun you’ll find sand in your shoes for days.
5. Float the Afternoon Away on a Catamaran Cruise
Chances are, after days on a massive cruise ship, your sea legs are tuned like a Stradivarius. Why not put them to work on a smaller vessel and enjoy a breezy catamaran sail along Aruba’s coast?
Catamarans usually depart from Palm Beach or downtown marinas (just a 10-minute cab ride away) and give you a chance to snorkel at the SS Antilla — a German WWII wreck so large you don’t even need to dive to see it.
Bonus: Most tours include an open bar because hydration is important. Rum punch = hydration, right?
6. Savor Local Flavors at Zeerovers (If You Know Where to Look)
If food is your love language, Zeerovers speaks it fluently. This dockside fish shack in Savaneta (about 25 minutes from the port) is beloved by locals, and largely under-the-radar for cruisers.
You pick fresh-caught fish and shrimp straight off the ice, and they fry it while you sip a Chill Beer and listen to the Caribbean waters lapping underfoot. Heaven. Messy fingers. No regrets.
Tip: Go early and take a taxi both ways. Ask your driver to wait — cell signals in the area can be flaky, which is charming when you’re swinging in a hammock… less so when you’re trying to catch your ship.
7. Shop the Unexpected at the Aruba Flea Market
Why buy the same magnet as everyone else on the ship? Head just outside the main drag to the local flea market — think artisan-made jewelry, spicy Aruban hot sauces, handmade Panama hats (yes, they’re actually Ecuadorian), and interaction with incredibly friendly locals.
You’ll be amazed at what you can find in 20 minutes and $20.
Bonus Tips You Didn’t Know You Needed
- Time Your Return: Cruise ships do not wait for island time. Aim to be back at the port at least 45 minutes before “all aboard” — that’s cruise-speak for “if you’re late, enjoy your extra day in Aruba…on your own dime.”
- Currency Confusion: Aruba accepts US dollars everywhere, and prices are often listed in both Aruban Florins (AWG) and USD. Tipping in dollars is perfectly normal.
- Wi-Fi Hack: Want quick Wi-Fi without paying ship prices? Pop into any café downtown. Coffee is cheap, Wi-Fi is strong, and uploading your beach selfie will make your friends back home cry salty tears.
- Watch the Sun, Not the Clock: The sun in Aruba can be deceptively intense thanks to trade winds. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, and reapply often — unless you fancy a sunburn souvenir.
Final Thoughts: How to Make Six Hours Last a Lifetime
Sure, six hours isn’t forever — but in Aruba, it’s enough. Enough to fall in love with a beach. Enough to savor a plate of just-caught fish. Enough to ride through a desert, drink on a catamaran, or float in water so clear you can see your own joy reflected back at you.
So skip the stress of trying to see it all. Choose your adventure, sink into the moment, and leave a little undone — that’s just a reason to come back.
Because Aruba may only give you six hours today, but its magic sticks with you long after your cruise has sailed away.
