How The Old Bushiri Hotel Became A New Public Beach To Explore in Aruba

Beaches

There’s a new beach to explore in Oranjestad. It’s a beautiful bay called “bushiri beach Aruba”, a wide space that was created after an abandoned hotel was dismantled.

Keep on reading to find out more about the history of this old hotel, and the before and after of bushiri beach in Aruba.

History of Bushiri Beach Aruba Resort

Bushiri Beach Resort opened its doors over 36 years ago, and was the first and only all inclusive resort in Aruba.

It was a beautiful beachfront resort featuring 155 rooms, swimming pools, jacuzzi’s, fitness center, two bars and a popular restaurant at that time called Tabasco!

This is how bushiri beach resort looked in its glory days…

The first all inclusive resort in Aruba.

Bushiri Beach Resort was also a hotel trade school that offered many students in-house, on the job training, for the hospitality industry and culinary arts.

It was one of the most vibrant resorts on the island back then, unfortunately, the resort closed its doors.

Since then it stood there, for years, falling apart day by day…

The old resort, fully deteriorated.

Bring Down The Building

Bushiri Beach Resort stood there for over a decade and became an abandoned building. It wasn’t a nice site to see when driving on Lloyd G. Smith Boulevard.

There were plenty of plans to invest money to renovate, and create a new hotel, malls and other commercial buildings. But none of these projects were realized.

The island government approved the dismantlement of Bushiri Beach Resort in 2016.

As of 2017 demolition works started, and a nice stretch of beach was being slowly revealed…

The dismantlement of Bushiri Resort was a historical moment.

It took several months to completely bring down the resort.

Some of the materials from the deteriorated building were salvaged and will be recycled and re-purposed.

Explore The New Bushiri Beach

The clean up was well worth it, because there’s a new view to enjoy, pure blue ocean and miles of white sand.

Direct access was created to this bay since the hotel was removed.

It’s a wide open space, perfect to watch the sunset at the end of the day, or get a glimpse of cruise ships making their way to the port in the morning.

Local fishermen are also known to fish on this beach.

Here’s a view of bushiri beach…

This is just beautiful, don’t you agree?

Bushiri beach looks beautiful, but what will it become in the future?

The intention was to create a beach for cruise passengers, but it’s not suitable for swimming yet.

Until the beach gets developed for swimming, it remains a beautiful site to admire when taking longs walks on the beach near Oranjestad.

Other Beaches Close To Oranjestad

There’s plenty of beaches to swim or snorkel close to the cruise port in Oranjestad.

About ½ mile from the cruise port lies a beautiful strip of beach called Surfside.

It’s a quiet beach, perfect if you’re seeking relaxation or fun things to do.

You can also walk, or take public transportation towards druif beach, manchebo beach, eagle beach or palm beach.

Here’s a view of eagle beach…

Miles of beach sands…

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February 21, 2018/by Jorge

9 Fun Things To Do At Surfside Beach Aruba

Activities, Aruba

Surfside beach Aruba is a beautiful strip of turquoise water and white sand beach near the coasts of the downtown area.

There’s plenty of cool spots to check out and fun things to do here.

Let me explain….

Where Is Surfside Beach Aruba?

Surfside Beach is located near the downtown area, close to the highway on your way to your hotel from the airport.

You can easily reach surfside beach with the bus or taxi.

If you want to rent a car in Aruba, you can easily drive to surfside.

There’s lots of free parking space in this area. Read this article if you want to know the rules about paid parking in the downtown Aruba

Things To Do At Surfside Beach Aruba

Surfside is known for turquoise shallow waters, white sand shores and peacefulness.

It’s located about a mile away from the cruise port and a few minutes from the airport.

Many locals visit surfside during the weekend to spend time with their family, but during the week, the beach is so quiet, practically making it your own private beach.

Besides swimming, spotting planes land and watching cruise ships come in, there’s plenty of cool spots to check out and plenty to do at Surfside beach in Aruba.

So whether you’re looking for a place to spend some time after you explore the island with a tour, or just want a some fun in the sun, check out these fun things to do near the area of Surfside beach Aruba.

1. Experience Local Culture

If you want to catch a glimpse of Aruba’s theater and cultural center, you should visit Cas di Cultura.

Cas di Cultura was developed by a local cultural association since 1949.

Here you will find various talent nights, theater shows by locals and visitors, school plays and Broadway musicals.

2. Enjoy A Walk in The Park

Surfside beach has a new park called “linear park”.

You can walk for miles, enjoy the fresh Caribbean air and exercise on the different gym equipment for free.

The linear park spans from near the airport through surfside beach until the downtown area.

It’s very well visited by locals who jog or walk early in the morning and during the evening times.

3. Take Kids To a Playground

If you’re on vacation with kids, you should take them to a playground called “Neptali Park”.

It’s a community playground, which is well visited by local children and their parents.

There’s different swings, slides, merry go rounds and more other different recreational equipments.

The park open from 4:00 PM and closes after the sun sets (closed on Monday) – entrance to the park is free of charge.

You can drink from a water cooler or buy other refreshments or snacks from a vending machine.

4. Relax At Reflexions Beach Bar

Reflexion beach bar offers a nice pool to cool down, if you don’t want to swim at the beach. They also have a restaurant, to enjoy a nice breakfast, lunch or dinner.

You can even rent an umbrella or chair here and place an order for one or two cocktails on the beach….

You’ll also find umbrella and chair rentals here.

5. Happy Hour at Surfside Beach Bar

There’s a second beach bar, on surfside called “Surfside Beach Bar”.

This beach bar is known for their happy hours, on Wednesday and Saturday, from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM. It’s a great spot to hang out, drink and enjoy the view of the Caribbean.

You should try their delicious skewers, and infamous “Surfside Boom” drink, which knocks the blues out of everyone who tries it 🙂

They also serve lunch, dinner and coffee.

Surfside Beach Bar Aruba

6. Splash Around The Inflatable Water Park

There’s an inflatable water park waiting for you at surfside beach in Aruba.

It’s called splash park.

The idea of this inflatable water park in unique on the island.

Splash park is great place to take your family members for a challenge on their obstacle course. so expect to have a lot of fun here with your family.

So prepare to bounce on trampolines, swing on monkey bars and climb high towers.

Splash Park!

7. Go on A Dive Excursion

Discover surfside’s underwater scenery with S.E. Fly N Dive school.

Sign up for a dive excursion and let the dive instructors shows you different dive sites, shallow reefs and shipwrecks.

Even if you’re not a certified diver, they offer half day training courses which includes theory and skills lessons, with a chance to dive in the open waters.

Your tour includes snorkeling or dive equipment, open bar and sandwiches.

Go diving…

8. Dine Barefoot on the Beach

There’s a few restaurants in the area of surfside beach worth mentioning and one of them is called “Barefoot”.

Barefoot is one of the many restaurants where you can dine with your feet in the sand as the sound of ocean waves in the background sets a tropical mood.

Enjoy a delicious dish while you overlook the Caribbean sea.

Dine barefoot on the beach.

9. Dine On a Private Pier

Pinchos is another restaurant near the area of surfside beach in Aruba.

It’s a chic grill and bar on a private pier overlooking the turquoise waters.

The atmosphere at Pincho’s is very romantic during the evening.

Visit pinchos for a variety of grilled mouthwatering dishes & delicious beverages.

Dine on a private pier overlooking the water.

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October 12, 2017/by Jorge

4 Things You Will Love About Natural Bridge in Aruba

Aruba, Attractions

The combination of strong winds and big waves, crashing against limestone rocks on the north coast formed a natural bridge in Aruba.

The Aruba natural bridge was one of the largest in the world.

Yes, I said was, because in 2005, the unthinkable “Aruba natural bridge collapse” happened.

But the remains of the natural bridge remains a scenic attraction until this day.

So why should you visit the natural bridge in Aruba, if it isn’t there any more?

You should visit, because there’s many other things to see and do.

The 4 Things I Liked About Natural Bridge in Aruba

I decided to visit the natural bridge, after almost more than year without going there.

While driving on the north coast of the island, I was reminded of how beautiful Aruba really is because of the….

1. The Beautiful Scenery

The way to the natural bridge in Aruba is a sand road that will give you one of the longest bumpiest rides (approximately 2 kilometers) you’ve ever experienced.

2.8 km to natural bridge in Aruba

On your way to the natural bridge, you’ll only notice 3 colors, blue, brown and green (and different shades of them). There’s nothing else but mountains, cactus, the ocean and blue skies. Occasionally you will see a few donkeys or goats roaming around.

The view here is amazing…

Small cove near the coastlines

A picture might show you how beautiful it is, but this is something you have to experience first hand.

Welcome to natural bridge Aruba.

2. Beautiful Remodeled Shop

The first thing I noticed when I arrived at the natural bridge was the bright yellow snack bar and souvenir shop.

It was the first “thirst aid stop” created by a local family more than 45 years ago – and it’s still the only refreshment shop in this area of the island.

The shop was sold to a local tour company (De Palm Tours), which renovated the entire place.

They remodeled the thirst aid shop into a beautiful typical old style home on the island, known as a cunucu house.

The remodeled natural bridge store

The interior has been completely renovated. Fully air conditioned, with a new bar, dining area, restrooms and a gift shop.

A few of the items sold at the gift shop.

They sell different clothing brands from Aruba, slippers, hats for all ages. You can also get pica di papaya (papaya pepper) if you like the extra spice in your food.

They also sell mini alcoholic bottles, sunscreen, mosquito repellents and Aruba aloe island remedy face lotion.

3. I Like The Cool Art on the Wall

The new owners lifted the natural bridge shop by adding a very cool and interesting mural, depicting the natural bridge in its original form.

Isn’t this mural beautiful?

Everyone that visits natural bridge in Aruba, takes a picture and records a video that can be remembered forever!

Turn your living room into the cool mural with a beautiful natural bridge canvas wall art.

Buy it now on Amazon.

4. Baby Natural Bridge

Although the original bridge collapsed already, there’s plenty of several other natural bridges near this side of Aruba’s coastlines.

There’s a bridge right next to the remains of the natural bridge, known as the “Baby Natural Bridge in Aruba”.

The baby bridge in Aruba

Here’s a picture of the remains from the natural bridge.

Remains of the natural bridge that collapsed in 2005

The natural bridge in Aruba is a beautiful place to take pictures, because of the backdrop of the surrounding windswept rocky hills and the ocean.

You can’t visit Aruba and not go to the natural bridge – your trip to this part of the island will be well worth it. If you want to explore the island, read 9 things to do at surfside beach or have a romantic beachside dinner in Aruba.

Good To Know….

Before you visit the natural bridge in Aruba, it’s important to know that….

You have to pay $1.00 to use the restroom
Entrance to the natural bridge is free.

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May 4, 2017/by Jorge

7 Exciting Things You Can Do in Aruba in One Day

Activities

There are plenty of things you can do in Aruba, but many people decide to hang around the beach and pool all day long, and never really leave their resort.

If you’re also visiting the island, but don’t know what you should do for fun, other than the beach, consider one of my many “one day in Aruba” itineraries.

Things You Can Do in Aruba

Aruba is a small island, but the amount of things one can do doesn’t disappoint.

This itinerary doesn’t cover everything there is to do on the island, because you only have one day, but the following list of 7 exciting things you can do in Aruba promises, a feel for the islands landmarks, a taste of a local dish, plenty of relaxing time at a secret beach and great place to end the day!

If you’re not sure if you’re going to rent a car, think about it again, because you will need a car to visit these sites. Read more about our car rental rates here.

So what should you do, if you’re looking for things you can do in Aruba for one day?

Pin it, if you have pinterest!

1. Take A Tour at The California Lighthouse

The lighthouse was closed for many years, but there’s enough reason to see the tower now, because it has been completely refurbished recently and is open for the public.

So, after breakfast, head over to the northwestern tip of the island, for a guided tour and historic explanation about the California Lighthouse (tour starts at 8:30 AM).

Take a tour of the California lighthouse.

Why should you visit the California lighthouse?

For one reason only, to soak in the best view on the island from the highest point in this area!

Important to know….

Tour starts at 8:30 AM (and takes 45 minutes to complete)
Tickets can be bought at the lighthouse for $8.00 per person
You can buy refreshments at a nearby shaved ice truck
There’s also an Italian restaurant near the lighthouse.

Click here to read more about the California Lighthouse

2. See The Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins

After seeing the spectacular backdrop at the lighthouse, make your way towards the northern coast of the island, to see the remainder of an abandoned gold mill that once processed ores during Aruba’s own gold rush in the nineteenth century.

This place is called bushiribana gold mill ruins and it’s a popular stop with the local tours, so you should see it too!

There’s still might be gold hidden around here.

Things you can do here: climb the rocks, take pictures and breathe the fresh air of Aruba’s coast.

There’s a truck right next to the gold mill ruins that sells refreshments (and they also have bathrooms you can use, for $1.00).

If you want to squeeze in another attraction, check out the natural bridge, on the same dirt road, not far from the gold mill.

3. Climb The Casibari Rock Formation

Head out from bushiribana to the city of Paradera, to climb one of Aruba’s wonders – a natural rock formation.

Walk around this beautiful park, to see the islands native flora and fauna.

The natural boulders are stacked on each other, creating the highest lookout point in Paradera.

Climb the big boulders to get a beautiful view of the island.

How did these boulders get stacked on top of each other? I don’t know, that’s the mysterious thing about this site. One things I know for sure, the view from the top of the rock formation is breathtaking.

There’s a bar, right next to the park entrance, they sell local souvenirs and refreshments. You can also use the bathroom here, if you need to.

4. Eat Fried Fish & Shrimps For Lunch

After you’ve seen some of the islands popular landmarks, it will be probably be in the middle of the day already, and if you’re like me, you’d be feeling hungry. So, what’s the best way to deal with your cravings? With one of the island’s favorite dish – fried fish!

Enjoy your basket of fried fish, shrimps and a few cold Beers.

I’m sure you’d want to eat where the locals eat, and one of the many places locals like to go is to zeerovers, located in the city Savaneta.

The menu is simple (and inexpensive), but delicious! On the list of food they serve is fresh fish, shrimps, flatbread (called pan-bati), fries, plantains and their homemade tartar sauce.

The place has a great local ambiance and is the perfect way to relax, so you can continue with the remaining activities in your itinerary.

5. Experience Peace Near Lourdes Grotto

When you’re done at zeerovers, drive to the south side of the island, to see the Lourdes grotto, one of the most religious sites in Aruba. Named in commemoration of the famous religious landmark in France, the Lourdes grotto is a unique Roman Catholic shrine built into the rocks.

There’s a statue of the virgin Mary in the rocks, and it is said to protect and bless all those who visit her.

A place to say thank you and refection.

Why should you visit the Lourdes grotto?

Because it’s a hidden gem in Aruba, so if you have the chance to see it for yourself, you should!

Many visitors (including some locals) don’t know this even exist.

Click here to read more about Lourdes grotto here.

6. Private Time At a Secluded Beach

Every itinerary needs to include some beach time, and this one features one of Aruba’s secret beaches.

Located in San Nicolas, there’s a secluded beach called Grape field. It’s perfect for undisturbed long walks, wading in the sea, or just to have a “private time” at the beach with your family.

California Lighthouse Aruba Is Finally Open For The Public

Attractions

One of Aruba’s landmarks, a stone tower, better known as California Lighthouse Aruba, has been completely refurbished.

The watchman for ships is standing tall and proud!

Let’s look how the renewing of the lighthouse took place and what you can expect from the grand opening…

Restoration of California Lighthouse Aruba

The restoration of the California Lighthouse started in 2015 and took one year to complete. The initial idea to restore it was, because of the 100th year anniversary since it was first constructed.

The renovation of the California Lighthouse was realized by Monumentenbureau,National Restauratiefonds Netherlands and Aruba Bank.

The California Lighthouse Aruba is now considered a preserved monument.

Grand Opening of The California Lighthouse Aruba

The California lighthouse Aruba has been closed for decades.

When the doors were closed, you could only wonder as to what inside looked like. And how the view would be from the top…

But those days, are long gone. Because on 26th of August 2016 the lighthouse has been officially opened!

The California Lighthouse doors has been re-opened for the first time by the Minister of Tourism and Aruba’s Governor.

The press (and other special guests) were there to witness the grand opening.

California Lighthouse Aruba Tour

The lighthouse is now open for tours (tickets cost 8$.)

The money goes towards maintaining the lighthouse in tip top condition.

The tour includes a historical description of the California Lighthouse. And the best part of all, a climb up the stairs to the highest lookout point of the lighthouse!

You’ll have 360 degree views of Aruba’s north coastline and surroundings.

If you’re interested you can book a VIP tour for private viewing.

I experienced the lighthouse before and after its restoration. It’s worth it to see what’s new!

Are you going to make your first inaugural climb at the California Lighthouse?

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September 10, 2016/by Jorge

Everything You Need To Know About California Lighthouse Aruba

Attractions

The California Lighthouse Aruba was made to warn ships away from Aruba’s coastlines. Now it attracts visitors like a magnet.

Before I tell you everything you need to know about the California Lighthouse Aruba sign up to the Vacations By Aruba Newsletter. I share the best tips about travelling to Aruba and news only with my subscribers.

California Lighthouse Aruba History

So, what’s the tale behind this magnificent structure?

It all began over a 100 years ago. When a boat shipwrecked on the northern coastline of Aruba.

Because of this incident the lighthouse was constructed.

Isn’t it a beautiful building?

The shipwrecked boat was called California so they named the lighthouse after it.

A gentleman from Curacao, Jacob Jacobs, was the first to be responsible for the California Lighthouse.

The last person in charge of the lighthouse was an Aruban called Federico Fingal.

Today there’s a restaurant adjacent to the lighthouse. Back then this was the home of the person in charge of the California Lighthouse.

About The California Lighthouse

The lighthouse was designed by a French architect. The construction started in 1914 and was completed in 1916.

The colossal tower, made out of stone blocks, stands on an elevated terrain, about 10 meters above sea level.

The lighthouse is about 30 meters high.

It’s been closed for years, due to lack of maintenance.

However, good news is, it’s been refurbished since July 2016.

Read about the renovation of the lighthouse here.

California Lighthouse Aruba Surroundings

An arid landscape surrounds the lighthouse. Cool trade winds. The area is dotted with cactus, trees and sharp rocks near the edges of the hill.

You can see nearby sand dunes from the lighthouse.

If you get hungry, you can buy something to eat at one of the local snack trucks parked in front of the lighthouse.

They sell delicious shaved ice here.

On weekends, I like to drive around the island, visit the lighthouse. Take some pictures. Buy shaved ice from one of the snack trucks and enjoy the view of Aruba from the lighthouse.

Location of The California Lighthouse

The California Lighthouse is located in the northern part of the island. This part of Aruba is better known as Hudishibana.

California Lighthouse is best reached by car (or taxi).

You can also take the bus, but it doesn’t go all the way to the lighthouse. The last bus stop is Arashi Beach. So you’ll need to walk about a kilometer further and climb the hill!

It’s worth the walk, that’s if you like to hike.

Are you going to visit the California Lighthouse?

November 13, 2015/by Jorge

Posts

How The Old Bushiri Hotel Became A New Public Beach To Explore in Aruba

History of Bushiri Beach Aruba Resort

Bring Down The Building

Explore The New Bushiri Beach

Other Beaches Close To Oranjestad

Join Our Newsletter

9 Fun Things To Do At Surfside Beach Aruba

Vacations By Aruba Newsletter

4 Things You Will Love About Natural Bridge in Aruba

The 4 Things I Liked About Natural Bridge in Aruba

1. The Beautiful Scenery

2. Beautiful Remodeled Shop

3. I Like The Cool Art on the Wall

4. Baby Natural Bridge

Vacations By Aruba Newsletter

7 Exciting Things You Can Do in Aruba in One Day

Things You Can Do in Aruba

1. Take A Tour at The California Lighthouse

2. See The Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins

3. Climb The Casibari Rock Formation

4. Eat Fried Fish & Shrimps For Lunch

5. Experience Peace Near Lourdes Grotto

California Lighthouse Aruba Is Finally Open For The Public

Restoration of California Lighthouse Aruba

Grand Opening of The California Lighthouse Aruba

Everything You Need To Know About California Lighthouse Aruba

California Lighthouse Aruba History

About The California Lighthouse

California Lighthouse Aruba Surroundings

Location of The California Lighthouse

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