There’s a reason the motto “one happy island” has been coined by the Aruban locals in Oranjestad. Surrounded by arguably the most beautiful waters in the world, there is no shortage of exciting adventures to be had in the bustling capital city of Aruba. With endless opportunities to snorkel, from shipwrecks to plane wrecks to beautifully vibrant coral reefs, off-roading adventures, horseback riding and cocktails on a sunset catamaran there’s truly something for everyone here.
Aruba's capital is easily explored on foot. Its palm-lined central thoroughfare runs between old and new pastel-painted buildings of typical Dutch design (Spanish influence is also evident in some of the architecture). There are a lot of malls with boutiques and shops—the Renaissance mall carries high-end luxury items and designer fashions. A massive renovation in downtown has given Main Street (a.k.a. Caya G. F. Betico Croes) behind the Renaissance Resort a whole new lease on life: boutique malls, shops, and restaurants have opened next to well-loved family-run businesses. The pedestrian-only walkway and resting areas have unclogged the street, and the new eco-trolley is free and a great way to get around. At this writing, Linear Park was well and will showcase local merchants and artists. There will be activities along a boardwalk that will eventually run all the way to the end of Palm Beach, making it the longest of its kind in the Caribbean.