Best things to do in Oranjestad

Rest on soft white sand, or take a cooling dip in clear waters at Eagle Beach. The country's widest beach offers plenty of room for all kinds of activities; sunbathers, swimmers, and water sports enthusiasts occupy the beach in harmony. Watch for the four different breeds of turtles who use the beach as a hatching ground. You can grab a drink from one of the many beachside bars to fully appreciate this tropical oasis.

Try your hand at a range of water sports at Palm Beach. The white sand beach offers a host of activities for active visitors, including kayaking, paddle boarding, jet skiing, and tubing. If you're looking for something a bit more calm, take a stroll along the boardwalk, or simply stretch out on the beach's soft sands. You can take catamaran or boat tours for a chance to admire the exotic marine animals that live just offshore.

Baby Beach provides a blissful setting suitable for kids, as well as inexperienced snorkelers and swimmers. Within a calm lagoon, the shallow waters and gentle waves allow you to wade out far from shore and still touch the bottom. A number of snack kiosks and rustic huts complete the authentic Aruban setting. This makes a good alternative to the busier beaches near popular hotels, and several outfits offer snorkeling gear and beach beds for rent.

You can't help but notice waves crashing dramatically into ocean cliffs as you navigate around Arikok National Park. Try touring the park with an all-terrain vehicle or via a Jeep tour to be able to reach some of the more remote places, such as the park caves. The caves feature stalagmites, stalactites, and ancient cave paintings. Take the opportunity to hike in the park while observing the native lizards and wild goats. Bring plenty of water, as the heat is intense. You'll find a restaurant along the way, as well as a beach, but be careful as the waters can get quite rough.

Stop by California Lighthouse and Sasariwichi Dunes for a slice of local history and arguably the finest views in this island nation. Named after an ill-fated ship that wrecked here in 1891, the stone lighthouse looks over the coastline and treats visitors to unobstructed views of sandy beaches and nearby golf courses. The surrounding area offers opportunities for dune surfing, while a nearby restaurant ensures no one goes hungry or thirsty. If you time your visit with early evening, you'll see a giant orange sun gently dropping into the sea.

Take a day trip to the all-inclusive De Palm Island and enjoy a wealth of activities geared towards the whole family, including a water park, zip lines, a restaurant, and snorkeling. Children will love slipping and sliding down the many slides in the park, while you make the most of the breakfast and lunch included in the package. Observe tropical fish while snorkeling from the beach, and consider bringing water shoes as it can be rocky when entering the water.

In 1989, Dan and Raj Chugani set out to build a fine jewelry business unlike any other in the Caribbean. The Foundation of the business would be to offer luxury jewelry backed by the promise of exceptional quality and service.

On the northern coast stands Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins, a remnant from the 19th century gold rush in Aruba. Strong winds from the Caribbean sea power the 1874 structure, and the crumbling mill is now a popular stop on local jeep tours navigating coastal dirt roads. The dramatic backdrop of sea and sand also make it a stunning spot to soak up the scenery on foot. Follow tradition by stacking local stones on the beach and making a wish.

A known site for snorkeling because of its clear waters, at Arashi Beach you'll find diverse tropical fish and the occasional sea turtle navigating the sea floor. Get there early to secure one of the thatched-roof beach huts to escape the sun, but consider bringing your own shade as a backup. There are no facilities on the Blue Flag-certified beach, so be sure to bring all the snacks and water you'll require for the day.

Observe vibrant butterflies, cocoons, and chrysalis from around the world at The Butterfly Farm--a tropical, enclosed environment brimming with hundreds of exotic specimens. Learn about the transformative life cycle of these majestic creatures from knowledgeable guides. As a bonus, your entry fee includes a return visit at some point during your stay; consider wearing bright colors and sweet perfume to coax the creatures into landing on you.

Unreachable by car, Natural Pool represents a secluded swimming hole protected from the ocean swells surrounded by rugged volcanic rock. You'll have to walk, ride on horseback or use an all-terrain vehicle to reach the pool. Be sure to bring your own snacks and plenty of water, water shoes are a "must" to navigate the rocks. The reasonably strenuous hike shouldn't take longer than an hour. Be aware that it can be very dangerous to swim here in inclement weather.

Visit a small but storied place of worship at Alto Vista Chapel. Originally consecrated in 1750, the chapel was central to the mission of Domingo Silvestre, a Venezuelan missionary. Rebuilt on numerous occasions after extreme weather or abandonment, the modern-day chapel was completed in 1952 and displays a quirky neo-colonial architectural style, with a bright yellow exterior and tapering walls. Take a step inside to admire the hand-carved altar, a neo-gothic artwork created in 1870. The surrounding desert landscape of cactuses and sand frames the chapel, giving it the air of a refuge from the harsh conditions.