Santa Cruz: Aruba's Authentic Heart
Explore Aruba's natural beauty and local culture in Santa Cruz, home to Arikok National Park and the island's authentic heart.
Discover the charm of Santa Cruz, a district offering a genuine glimpse into Aruban culture and landscapes. Home to Arikok National Park and the iconic Hooiberg, it's a haven for nature lovers seeking an escape from the bustling resort areas.
A brief summary to Aruba
- G2CJ+CMV, Santa Cruz, AW
Local tips
- Wear sturdy shoes if you plan to hike in Arikok National Park, as the terrain can be rough.
- Bring sunscreen and a hat, as shade is limited, especially when exploring the park.
- Consider visiting the Donkey Sanctuary for a heartwarming experience with rescued animals.
- Try local Aruban cuisine at one of the restaurants in Santa Cruz for an authentic culinary experience.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Oranjestad, take the Arubus (Aruba's public bus service) towards Santa Cruz. Buses run frequently throughout the day, with higher frequency during peak hours. Check the Arubus schedule for the most up-to-date times. The central bus station in Oranjestad is located next to the cruise terminal. A one-way fare is approximately $2 USD. From the bus stop in Santa Cruz, you can walk to nearby attractions or take a taxi for a short ride to destinations like Arikok National Park.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Oranjestad and other tourist areas. A taxi ride from Oranjestad to Santa Cruz typically costs between $21 and $30 USD, depending on the exact destination within Santa Cruz and time of day. Note that there is a $3 surcharge on Sundays, official holidays, and between 11:00 PM and 7:00 AM. Taxis in Aruba do not have meters; rates are fixed based on destination. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
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Driving
From Oranjestad, follow Route 1 (Lloyd G. Smith Blvd) eastward. Continue onto Route 4 (also known as Caya G.F. Betico Croes). Follow Route 4 into Santa Cruz. The drive is approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Parking is generally available in Santa Cruz, especially near the town center and entrances to Arikok National Park. Parking is usually free, but it's advisable to confirm any parking fees with local signage.
Discover more about Aruba
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Eagle beach
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Palm beach
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Aruba Smart Map
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Golden Anchor
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Huchada
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Urataka Center
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Restaurant Murano Art
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Plaza Status Aparte Betico Croes
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SETAR Santa Cruz
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Santa Cruz Bar Restaurant
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Hooiberg Lookout
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Alpha Tours & Transfers Aruba
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Unmissable attractions to see
Sand Dunes behind the lighthouse
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Heaven
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I LOVE ARUBA sign
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Rancho Loco
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Ayo Rock Formations
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Shark Bay
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Andicuri Beach
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Noordkaap Trail
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Aruba Water Park
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Natural Bridge Aruba
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Tripod Bridge
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Cunucu Arikok
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Blackstone beach
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Hooiberg Hiking Trail
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AGW TOURS ARUBA
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Essential places to dine
Salina Local Cuisine Restaurant
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Driftwood
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Anker Fish
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Swiss Challe Dinning
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Aquairius
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jumbo bar restaurant
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Mimijo Snack
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Itza Pizza
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Peking Restaurant Santa Cruz
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Amistad Take Away & Restaurant
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Weng Kee Bar & Restaurant
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SANWELL Bar & Restaurant
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Parrilla bbq vip
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McDonald's
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Taco Bell
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
ddf
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Taleeq Clothing
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Cartegena
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Forever Yours Bridal
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Bossmen Apparel
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Healthy skin Aruba
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Terranov Boutique
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Isabelle's Favorite Things Online Boutique
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2 Palms Aruba
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Angochi Supermarket
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Arawak Supply Co.
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Podera Aruba
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Shun Li Supermarket
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M.K Online Shopping
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Shiribana Shopping
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
B - J's
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Dhiram Barman
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The Rocks
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Los Recuerdos de Ella
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BURICO BURACHI
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Ocean Lounge Aruba
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Young Fellow Bar and Restaurant
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Ban Dal 2 Bar & Restaurant
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Old Dutch
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One Happy Bar
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Aruba Nautical Club
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Marina Pirata Restaurant
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Sweet Garden Bar& Restaurant
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The Backyard Aruba
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Kabayan Snack & Take Away
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
A real 1
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Zafarancho
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Madi's Natural Pool Shuttle
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Conchi Natural Pool
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Conchi
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Cage night club
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Eyes Nightclub
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Club Universal
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Mangel Halto
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Mangel Halto beach
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Joker's Nightclub
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Disco Club
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Reflexions Beach Bar & Restaurant Aruba
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809 Nightclub
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