The capital of Aruba charms with vibrant Dutch colonial buildings and a lively waterfront. Museums highlight local history, while nearby beaches beckon sun-seekers.
Oranjestad, the capital of Sint Eustatius in the Caribbean Netherlands, is a small town with a rich past and striking scenery. As you walk through this coastal settlement, you'll see Fort Oranje perched on a cliff, 18th-century buildings lining the streets, and volcanic black sand beaches along the shore. The town's layout, divided into Upper and Lower sections, lets you experience both the island's busy center and its historic waterfront area.
Exploring Oranjestad's Two Sections
Oranjestad has two main areas: Lower Town and Upper Town. Lower Town runs along the waterfront, just above sea level. Here, you'll find dive shops, colonial-era ruins, and the island's calmest beach. Upper Town, on higher ground, contains the restored historic core and serves as the main commercial and residential center. This unique layout puts the town's maritime past and modern amenities within a short walk of each other.
Historical Sites in Oranjestad
At the heart of Oranjestad stands Fort Oranje, a well-maintained 17th-century fortress overlooking the waterfront. You can walk along the fort's intact bastions, see old cannons, and explore the courtyard to learn about the island's strategic role during colonial times. Climb to the top for sweeping views of the surrounding area. Near the fort, you can visit the ruins of one of the oldest synagogues in the Western Hemisphere, along with a Jewish cemetery, showing the various cultural influences that have shaped the town over time.
Natural Areas and Beaches
Despite its small size, Oranjestad and the surrounding area have several natural spots to explore. The town borders one of Sint Eustatius's calmest beaches, where you can relax on the distinctive black volcanic sand. When you snorkel in Oranje Bay, you'll see parts of 18th-century buildings that have been swept into the sea over time. Outside the town, Zeelandia Beach serves as an important nesting site for endangered sea turtles, including green, leatherback, loggerhead, and hawksbill species.
Practical Information for Visitors
To reach Oranjestad, you'll need to fly into F.D. Roosevelt Airport on Sint Eustatius. In town, you'll find grocery stores, restaurants, bars, and a clinic. While Dutch is the official language, most people speak English in everyday life, making communication easy for most visitors. Oranjestad has a tropical monsoon climate, with an average annual rainfall of 985.8 mm (38.81 inches). September and October are typically the wettest months, so you might want to plan your visit during drier periods if you prefer.
Exploring Beyond Oranjestad
While Oranjestad has much to see, the rest of Sint Eustatius is worth exploring as well. The island has three nature parks, including the Sint Eustatius National Marine Park and Quill/Boven National Park. These areas are designated as important bird habitats and have hiking trails where you can observe local wildlife. The Quill, an extinct volcano with a crater, is a challenging hike that rewards you with panoramic views of the island and surrounding Caribbean Sea.
