Lucy's Retired Surfer's Bar & Restaurant Review

Lucy’s Retired Surfer’s Bar & Restaurant – Aruba’s Laid‑Back Waterfront Hangout
Tucked along the Wind Creek Marina in downtown Oranjestad and just steps from the Renaissance Resort & the cruise terminal, Lucy’s Retired Surfer’s Bar & Restaurant is a laid‑back, open‑air hotspot that blends surfer charm with Caribbean fun.

🌴 Vibe & Ambience
Lucy’s channels a “retired surfer’s paradise” aesthetic—colorful surfboards, palapas, hammocks, and beach‑style seating all contribute to a casual, welcoming atmosphere. Boasting indoor/outdoor seating for over 200, the venue is perfect for families, groups, or solo visitors who want a front row seat to marina views and sunsets.

🍹 Drinks & Bar Scene
The bar is a major draw, known for its signature Shark Attack drink and daring Scorpion Shot—complete with a free T-shirt for anyone who tries it. Happy hours run Monday–Friday from 4–7 pm, offering great deals on coastal-inspired cocktails and cold beers, including local brews. The vibe is fun, relaxed, and just right for a sunset cocktail hour.

🍴 Food Menu
Lucy’s offers a coastal-inspired menu featuring fresh, hearty bites:

• Tsunami Shrimp and Surf Nachos—tasty starters praised in reviews
• Fish & Shrimp Tacos, Blackened Fish Tacos, and Beach Burgers—popular main dishes.
• Taco Tuesday specials (all‑day tacos, first-come basis) add a fun weekly highlight
• A standout is the “Cook‑Your‑Catch” option—you bring your fresh catch, and Lucy’s kitchen grills it your way.

Vegetarian options and burgers ensure there’s something for everyone.

🎶 Service & Entertainment
Service is warm and laid‑back—servers match the surfer ethos and keep the vibe friendly and efficient. Live music, big-screen TVs for sports, themed events, and a casual surf‑shop atmosphere make Lucy’s a lively place for both relaxation and socializing.

📍 Family & Group Friendly
Pet‑friendly and great for families, Lucy’s keeps kids entertained and parents relaxed. Casual dress code and family‑style dining make it a popular choice for groups of travelers. No reservation is needed on most days, though large groups (10+) are advised to book directly.

💵 Value & Practical Info

• Price Range: Moderate ($–$$) with good value on tapas and tacos
• Hours: Daily from 11 am until late/whenever the party ends.
• Extras: Surf shop, event hosting, eco-friendly paper straws, and a scenic dock area ideal for casual waterside lounging

⭐ Pros & Cons👍 Pros

• Lively, authentic surfer-bar feel
• Scenic marina and ocean-side setting
• Strong cocktail program and specialty shots
• Family and pet friendly
• Unique cook-your-catch option

👎 Cons

• Food quality can vary—some reviews note dishes can be just average 
• Busy evenings can feel crowded and noisy—though that’s part of the appeal for many

🏁 Final Verdict
​Lucy’s Retired Surfer’s Bar & Restaurant offers an authentically fun, relaxed beachfront experience with colorful décor, bold drinks, and a playful vibe. It’s an ideal spot for families, groups, or solo travelers seeking good food, sunshine, and a chill social scene. While the food may not always be gourmet, the overall atmosphere and memorable drinks—plus the cook‑your‑catch twist—make Lucy’s a must-visit for anyone wanting to tap into Aruba’s laid-back charm.

Thinking of visiting? Try to catch Taco Tuesday or a happy hour sunset, and bring an appetite (and maybe a fish) for a full Lucy’s experience!