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14 Jun 2025
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Oranjestad to San Nicolas Road Trip Itinerary

Oranjestad to San Nicolas Road Trip Overview

Embark on a scenic and cultural adventure across Aruba with this exciting road trip from Oranjestad to San Nicolas. Start your journey in the bustling capital, Oranjestad, where you can immerse yourself in the island’s history, vibrant markets, and picturesque Dutch colonial architecture. Continue to Hooiberg, the iconic volcanic hill, and enjoy panoramic views after climbing its famous staircase. Next, discover the natural wonders of Arikok National Park at the Visitor Center, where you’ll learn about Aruba’s unique wildlife and rugged landscape. Head deeper into the park to explore Guadirikiri Cave, illuminated by rays of sunlight and decorated with ancient petroglyphs. Then, unwind at the serene Baby Beach, where shallow, clear waters make it perfect for swimming or snorkeling. End your trip in San Nicolas, the cultural heart of Aruba’s south, famous for its striking murals, local eateries, and authentic Caribbean vibe. This itinerary promises a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and local culture for a memorable exploration of Aruba!


Recommended Activities

  • Oranjestad is Aruba’s vibrant capital city known for its colorful Dutch colonial architecture, lively markets, museums, excellent shopping, and waterfront dining, providing a rich cultural introduction to the island.
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  • Hooiberg is a volcanic formation and one of the highest points in Aruba, offering a challenging climb up its staircase and rewarding visitors with panoramic views of the entire island.
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  • Trip Point Pin3

    Arikok National Park Visitor Center

    Arikok National Park Visitor Center is the gateway to Aruba’s largest protected area, where visitors can learn about the island’s diverse flora, fauna, geology, and history before exploring rugged landscapes and natural wonders within the park.
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  • Trip Point Pin4

    Guadirikiri Cave

    Guadirikiri Cave is famous for its stunning chambers illuminated by natural sunlight, ancient Arawak petroglyphs, and unique bat colonies, offering a mix of nature, history, and adventure.
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  • Baby Beach is a beautiful, half-moon-shaped lagoon with shallow, crystal-clear waters, making it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing in a family-friendly environment.
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    San Nicolas

    San Nicolas is Aruba’s second-largest city, known for its vibrant street art, local culture, and authentic Caribbean atmosphere, as well as its rich history in the oil industry.
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Restaurants

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    The West Deck

    4.2
    $$$$

    The West Deck

    Located on a wooden deck over the water, this casual eatery offers Caribbean specialties with waterfront views and a laid-back atmosphere.
    4.2
    $$$$
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    Barefoot Restaurant

    4.2

    Barefoot Restaurant

    Dine with your toes in the sand just steps from the ocean, enjoying fresh seafood and international dishes in an open-air setting.
    4.2
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    Cuba’s Cookin’

    3.9
    $$$$

    Cuba’s Cookin’

    A quirky and colorful downtown restaurant fusing Caribbean and Cuban cuisine, known for its vibrant decor, live music, and mojitos.
    3.9
    $$$$
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    The Flying Fishbone

    4.6
    $$$$

    The Flying Fishbone

    Famous for its tables in the shallow surf, this idyllic spot offers an unforgettable beachfront sunset dining experience in Savaneta.
    4.6
    $$$$
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    Charlie’s Bar

    4.3

    Charlie’s Bar

    An iconic, eclectic bar in San Nicolas known for its quirky decor, decades-old memorabilia, and hearty local dishes, popular with both locals and travelers.
    4.3
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Hotels

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    Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba

    4.8

    Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba

    This colorful boutique hotel is set on a historic coconut plantation and features unique casitas surrounded by lush gardens, offering a cozy and serene island stay.
    4.8
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    Aruba Ocean Villas

    4.4

    Aruba Ocean Villas

    These overwater villas in Savaneta provide a rare adults-only escape where you can literally sleep above the turquoise Caribbean Sea with private decks and direct water access.
    4.4
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    Beach House Aruba

    4.8

    Beach House Aruba

    This intimate property offers uniquely decorated apartments right across from the beach, promising stunning sunset views and a relaxed, home-away-from-home vibe.
    4.8
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    The Old Man and The Sea Ocean Villas

    4.4
    $$$$

    The Old Man and The Sea Ocean Villas

    A collection of lavishly themed villas in a tranquil lagoon setting, perfect for a romantic getaway far from typical resorts.
    4.4
    $$$$
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    Wonders Boutique Hotel

    4.6

    Wonders Boutique Hotel

    An adults-only oasis in Oranjestad with tropical gardens, a natural pool, and a focus on personalized service, offering a restful and eco-friendly retreat.
    4.6
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Local Events & Happenings

  • Event Icon

    Marco Antonio Solís - MAS CERCA DE TI WORLD TOUR

    Marco Antonio Solís - MAS CERCA DE TI WORLD TOUR

    The event will take place at Coliseo De Puerto Rico in San Juan.
    Map IconColiseo De Puerto Rico in San Juan (485.85 mi)
    Calendar Icon12 Oct 2025
    Picture for Marco Antonio Solís - MAS CERCA DE TI WORLD TOUR
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    Homestead-Miami Speedway Fast Lane Membership

    Homestead-Miami Speedway Fast Lane Membership

    The event will take place at Homestead Miami Speedway in Homestead.
    Map IconHomestead Miami Speedway in Homestead (1126.52 mi)
    Calendar Icon21 Nov 2025
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    2026 NASCAR Truck Series Pre-Race Pass

    2026 NASCAR Truck Series Pre-Race Pass

    The event will take place at Homestead Miami Speedway in Homestead.
    Map IconHomestead Miami Speedway in Homestead (1126.52 mi)
    Calendar Icon6 Nov 2026
    Picture for 2026 NASCAR Truck Series Pre-Race Pass
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    2026 NASCAR Tailgate Tow Pass

    2026 NASCAR Tailgate Tow Pass

    The event will take place at Homestead Miami Speedway in Homestead.
    Map IconHomestead Miami Speedway in Homestead (1126.52 mi)
    Calendar Icon6 Nov 2026
    Picture for 2026 NASCAR Tailgate Tow Pass
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    2026 NASCAR Truck Sreies Speedway Terrace

    2026 NASCAR Truck Sreies Speedway Terrace

    The event will take place at Homestead Miami Speedway in Homestead.
    Map IconHomestead Miami Speedway in Homestead (1126.52 mi)
    Calendar Icon7 Nov 2026
    Picture for 2026 NASCAR Truck Sreies Speedway Terrace
  • Event Icon

    2026 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Championship

    2026 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Championship

    The event will take place at Homestead Miami Speedway in Homestead.
    Map IconHomestead Miami Speedway in Homestead (1126.52 mi)
    Calendar Icon7 Nov 2026
    Picture for 2026 NASCAR Craftsman Truck  Series Championship
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    2026 NASCAR Truck Series Ally Pit Box

    2026 NASCAR Truck Series Ally Pit Box

    The event will take place at Homestead Miami Speedway in Homestead.
    Map IconHomestead Miami Speedway in Homestead (1126.52 mi)
    Calendar Icon7 Nov 2026
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Travel Gems from Reddit

  • Reddit Icon

    Anyone has some advice? Something where you can walk to nice bar(s)

    Tip for a nice hotel or Appartment Sint nicolas

    Anyone has some advice? Something where you can walk to nice bar(s)

    /r/Aruba
  • Reddit Icon

    463 votes, 124 comments. Just got back from 8 magical days in Aruba with two of my girlfriends. We're in our late 30s and from the US. I wanted to

    Just spent 8 days in Aruba. Here's my experience & some recommendations.

    463 votes, 124 comments. Just got back from 8 magical days in Aruba with two of my girlfriends. We're in our late 30s and from the US. I wanted to

    /r/Aruba
  • Reddit Icon

    13K subscribers in the Aruba community. /Aruba, One Happy Subreddit!

    Is San Nicolas sketch?

    13K subscribers in the Aruba community. /Aruba, One Happy Subreddit!

    /r/Aruba
  • Reddit Icon

    Im considering going the Airbnb route opposed to hotel/ resort, and was wondering if San Nicolas was any more or less safe than the palm beach area

    Is San Nicolas safe?

    Im considering going the Airbnb route opposed to hotel/ resort, and was wondering if San Nicolas was any more or less safe than the palm beach area

    /r/Aruba

Music for Your Journey

  • Music Icon

    Bob Marley & The Wailers - One Love / People Get Ready - Medley

    Bob Marley & The Wailers - One Love / People Get Ready - Medley

    A reggae classic that brings positive vibes and captures the spirit of Caribbean unity.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Kassav' - Zouk-la Sé Sel Médikaman Nou Ni

    Kassav' - Zouk-la Sé Sel Médikaman Nou Ni

    A lively Caribbean zouk anthem guaranteed to get you moving as you cruise Aruba’s roads.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Marockin' Brass - Bucuti

    Marockin' Brass - Bucuti

    A romantic Aruban waltz celebrating the island’s beauty, perfect to set the local mood.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Weezer - Island In The Sun

    Weezer - Island In The Sun

    This cheerful song captures the joy and relaxation of a sunny island adventure.
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    Camila Cabello - Havana (feat. Young Thug)

    Camila Cabello - Havana (feat. Young Thug)

    Latin rhythms and catchy beats make this song ideal for a tropical road trip.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Chris Brown - Ayo

    Chris Brown - Ayo

    This Aruban classic blends calypso with heartfelt lyrics, reflecting the island’s spirit.
    Listen on Spotify
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  • Music Icon

    The Beach Boys - Kokomo

    The Beach Boys - Kokomo

    A beachy tune evoking images of turquoise waters and relaxed island living.
    Listen on Spotify
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  • Music Icon

    Daddy Yankee - Con Calma

    Daddy Yankee - Con Calma

    A modern reggaeton hit that will energize your drive as you explore Aruba.
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    Jersey Sophia - Dushi Hende Bo Ta

    Jersey Sophia - Dushi Hende Bo Ta

    An uplifting local song in Papiamento, celebrating the warmth of Aruba’s people.
    Listen on Spotify
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  • Music Icon

    Marc Anthony - Vivir Mi Vida

    Marc Anthony - Vivir Mi Vida

    A salsa anthem that celebrates living life to the fullest—perfect for an adventure!
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