
On this trip to Aruba I set out to find and share the most spectacular Aruba Cruise Port backdrops guaranteed to break the internet!
That’s because, if there’s one place that consistently delivers jaw-dropping photo ops straight off the ship, it’s Aruba. It’s not our first trip. And let’s be honest, we’re kind of addicted to Aruba at this point.
So, for this trip, I set out to find the most Instagrammable, scroll-stopping, and flat-out fun backdrops right near the cruise port.
The result? A sun-soaked collection of memories that honestly deserve their own modeling contract. If you’re docking in Oranjestad and wondering where to snap those frame-worthy pics, let me be your friendly guide.
An added bonus: You can hit all of these spectacular Aruba Cruise Port backdrops without even needing a taxi!
And here’s a fun fact, all of the photos in this blog were taken by me and my husband—some on this trip, some from a prior visit. Because when it comes to Aruba, once is never enough!
“Aruba By Cruise” Sign – The Iconic Arrival Shot

Location: Just as you exit the ship at the cruise port entrance
Caption: “Proof you made it to One Happy Island—literally right off the boat!”
This massive, colorful “Aruba By Cruise” sign is your first welcome and your first chance to strike a pose. In fact, with the deep blues of the Caribbean in the background and your ship still in view, it screams “Wish you were here!”
I always make sure to snap this shot early, before the crowds roll in. Especially if it’s a two ship day. It’s the easiest way to kick off your Aruba photo dump with a bang!
The Bull on a Bench – Quirky, Unexpected, and Perfectly Aruba

Location: In front of LG Smith’s Steak & Chop House, Lloyd G. Smith Blvd
Caption: “Dinner and a photo op? Yes please.”
We stumbled upon this life-sized bull sculpture chilling on a bench—and yes, I had to sit next to it like we were longtime friends. If I’m being honest, we sit with the bull every time we go.
This spectacular Aruba Cruise Port backdrops is such a random, unexpected find and makes for one of those fun, “Wait, where is that?” kind of photos. Don’t miss the chance to grab a picture here while walking from the port to downtown.
Double Flamingo Statue – A Sassy, Pink Power Moment

Location: In front of the Crystal Casino near the port
Caption: “Double the flamingos, double the fun!”
Aruba loves flamingos, and who can blame them? These statues are bright, bold, and right on your way into the heart of the shopping area.
They’re big enough to steal the scene and just the right amount of cheeky. Whether you’re with your cruise crew or striking a solo pose, this one always gets a double-tap.
Red Flowered Phone Booth – Vintage Meets Tropical

Location: Renaissance Marketplace
Caption: “Can you hear me now? Aruba’s calling.”
What happens when a classic red British phone booth meets a floral explosion? Well, you get one of the cutest little corners of Renaissance Marketplace.
In fact, we stumbled on this while heading toward the mall and immediately had to stop. It’s bold, it’s floral, and it gives just the right dose of kitsch.
Wind, Water, and Wobbly Rocks – My Favorite Windy Hat Moment

Location: On the rocks near the beach at the Renaissance
Caption: “Hold onto your hat—it’s Aruba windy!”
One of my favorite candid shots from the trip is me standing on the rocks with the wind absolutely doing the most and me trying to keep my hat from flying into the ocean. Aruba’s constant breeze is a blessing in disguise—it keeps the weather perfect, but it will test your hat game.
Want to see just how much it will test your hat game? Check out this video I posted on TikTok.
I Love Aruba Sign – Classic But Never Cliché

Location: Right across from the cruise port entrance
Caption: “It’s not official until you point at the sign.”
You know the one. Big, bold letters that say “I ❤️ Aruba”—and you better believe I pointed at it like my life depended on it. This is a must-snap moment whether it’s your first visit or your fifth. Go early in the morning or just before golden hour for the best light and the fewest photobombers.
Flamingo Island – Yes, The Birds Are Real (and Fabulous)

Location: Flamingo Beach on Renaissance Private Island (from a prior trip)
Caption: “My daughter and me and our pink bestie.”
We visited Flamingo Island on a previous Aruba trips and let me tell you—it lives up to the hype. You take a quick boat ride from the Renaissance Hotel, and next thing you know, you’re sharing beach space with some of the sassiest flamingos on the planet.
My daughter and I caught the perfect moment with one of the flamingos by the shoreline—still one of my favorite travel pics ever.
Flamingo Island Lagoon – Me, a Drink, and a Dreamy Lagoon

Location: Renaissance Private Island (also from a prior trip)
Caption: “Tropical drink in hand, flamingos nearby… living the Aruba dream.”
That same trip gifted me another gem: a drink-in-hand shot near the tranquil lagoon. It’s peaceful, it’s pristine, and the drinks aren’t too shabby either.
If you book a day pass to the island, make sure to grab a seat by the lagoon for the most relaxed island vibes.
Infinity Pool Lobby Shot – Renaissance Hotel, But Make It Glam

Location: Inside Renaissance Hotel lobby overlooking the beach
Caption: “Tropical drink in hand, flamingos nearby… living the Aruba dream.”
If you’re stopping by the Renaissance to shop, eat, or sneak a peek, make time for a pic at the lobby’s infinity pool. With the beach in the background and water everywhere you look, it’s like stepping into a luxury postcard. Great lighting, no filter needed.
Divi Divi Tree – Aruba’s Most Famous Silhouette

Location: Eagle Beach (from a prior trip)
Caption: “We bend with the breeze, not break with the storm.”
This photo of my husband and me standing near the iconic Divi Divi tree is special. It’s Aruba’s natural compass—the tree always points west because of the strong trade winds.
Indeed, the shape is unlike anything else and makes a stunning, windswept backdrop that symbolizes strength and serenity. A must-capture moment, especially for couples!
Don’t Just Scroll—Watch the Vlog!
To see all these photo spots in action (and laugh with me while I battle the Aruba wind), make sure you check out the companion video in my Cruise Series. You’ll get behind-the-scenes peeks, outfit fails, flamingo side-eyes, and more. Hit play and let Aruba work its magic through the lens!
And don’t miss my recent blog, Unbelievable Aruba Cruise Port Gems You Can Do In A Day!
Call to Action: Join the Cruise Series Fun!
Love this kind of travel content? There’s plenty more where that came from. I’m sharing all the sunny gems, cheeky moments, and cruise port secrets from our adventures in Aruba and beyond.
Follow my Cruise Series on the blog, TikTok, YouTube, Facebook and Instagram for even more tips, clips, and unforgettable destinations!
Until next time,
Namaste,
Khadeeja