Aruba Travel Guide 2025: All You Need to Know

Last Updated on January 20, 2025

Planning to travel to Aruba? Here is my detailed Aruba travel guide including travel requirements, cost of travel, and the best places to visit.

The Dutch Caribbean Islands of Aruba has always been a popular travel destination, for good reason! While it’s one of the smallest Caribbean islands, Aruba punches above its weight. It’s an island where the word “utopia” takes on a whole different meaning.

A place where everything feels just right, from the intensity of the sun to the sound of crashing waves on the beach. Even those who aren’t necessarily beach bums find it hard to board the plane home. I spent 4 days on the island and the memories of my time here still linger long after my trip.

I have compiled this Aruba travel guide based on my time on this beautiful island. I will offer my recommendations on the best places to visit, where to stay, travel requirements, how much you can budget, and the best places to eat. I hope you find this guide helpful;

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Aruba Travel Guide

How to Get to Aruba

Many airlines offer year-round and seasonal nonstop flights to Queen Beatrix International Airport from major travel hubs in the US, Europe, and Latin America.

For those flying from the US, the cheapest flights usually connects through Miami. These are obviously longer (by about 4 hours) but offer more budget-friendly fares. For instance, a flight from New York to Aruba via Miami costs as low as $397 depending on the time of the year. Search for flights here.

Before you board, don’t forget to complete Aruba’s Official Embarkation-Disembarkation card (ED card). It’s an online form that you must fill out before entering the island. Get your Aruba ED Card.

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Fun Facts about Aruba

Known as “One Happy Island,” Aruba is a Caribbean paradise famous for its sunny weather and pristine beaches. Located 18 miles north of the Venezuelan peninsula of Paraguaná, Aruba is part of the Dutch ABC islands, along with Bonaire and Curaçao. Aruba is the smallest of the lot.

Aruba embraces its colonial heritage and these influences are widespread across the island. However, the island mostly embraces its Dutch heritage. Arubans speak Dutch, Spanish, English, and Papiamento (a creole language that blends Portuguese African, Dutch, and Spanish influences).

Aruba’s history dates back thousands of years to its first known inhabitants, the Caiquetio Indians of the Arawak tribe. These arrived from Venezuela during the Pre-Ceramic period (2500 BC – 1000 AD). In 1499, Spanish explorer Alonso de Ojeda discovered the island, marking the beginning of Spanish colonization.

Aruba was then taken over by the Dutch in 1636 to safeguard their salt supply and establish a naval base during their Eighty Years’ War with Spain. Aruba achieved autonomy in 1986 through the “Status Aparte” process, a hard-won victory led by local hero and political activist Betico Croes. Despite this victory, Aruba didn’t get full autonomy and is 1 of 4 countries under the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

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What Kind of People Travel to Aruba?

Aruba is on the pricier end, so it may not be ideal for those on a tight budget, as dining and excursions can add up quickly. But if you’re willing to splurge for the finer things in life, this is the place for you.

Aruba offers a high standard of living, with safe streets, reliable taxis, and European-level amenities like excellent supermarkets and healthcare. And those are just the basics! But when it comes to dining and accommodation, Aruba kicks it up a notch.

The hotels on the island offer exquisite amenities and the restaurants offer Michelin-star level service. While Aruba is largely considered a prime destination for couples, we encountered some solo travelers, families, and groups enjoying their time. For those looking for real adventure or an off-the-beaten-path experience, this is probably not for you either.

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Best Time to Visit Aruba

Aruba is outside the hurricane belt and can be visited at any time of the year. The weather remains consistently balmy and sunny year-round, with an average temperature of 82°F, so there’s truly no bad time to visit. The last two months of the year are the wettest but the rain showers are often short-lived.

The winter months (December, January, and February) make up the high season in Aruba. During these months, the island hosts a string of events and festivals like the Dande Festival, a highly-anticipated two-day celebration with music, singing, and fireworks. January and February are just as entertaining and are regarded as Carnival months in Aruba.

The best time to visit Aruba is between April and August. The weather is still balmy and hotels offer great discounts on accommodation. However, direct flights may be less frequent and pricier than during the popular winter months. If you plan to visit between September and December, try to book your stay in the fall before the winter crowd arrives.

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How Much Time to Visit Aruba

At just 69.1 square miles, Aruba is a relatively small island that’s home to around 100,000 people.  It only takes 45 minutes to drive from one end to the other, so even a quick getaway works just fine. We spent four days here, and found that it was enough to enjoy the beaches and explore key attractions. Four days worked for us, but I recommend you spend a week to fully soak in all that Aruba has to offer.

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How to Travel Around Aruba

By Car Rental

The best way to explore Aruba is by car rental and trust us—having your own wheels makes the experience much smoother. Aruban roads are safe, modern, and straightforward to navigate. You’ll drive on the right-hand side and overtake on the left.

We booked our rental in advance through Discover Cars, which consistently offers fantastic prices and reliable service. For around $58 per day, you can pick up your vehicle at Queen Beatrix International Airport and start your adventure immediately. Search for car rentals in Aruba here!

By Taxi

If you’re uncomfortable about driving in a new country or want to kick back and relax, taxis (cabbies) are your best bet. The drivers are super-friendly and double as unofficial tour guides with their excellent recommendations for restaurants and activities. The taxis don’t have meters and the cost is entirely based on your destination.

But that shouldn’t scare you because the fares are regulated by the Aruba Department of Public Traffic, so you won’t be cheated. A ride typically starts at around AWG 12.60 (US$7.00). However, there are additional charges for Sundays, holidays, or late-night trips.

Most destinations are within a 10-minute ride, so it won’t cost you much. Please carry some local currency on you if you plan to use taxis because not all drivers accept USD.

By Bus

Getting around Aruba by bus is both reliable and budget-friendly thanks to Arubus service. This bus system connects downtown Oranjestad with the island’s main tourist hotspots, including Palm Beach, Eagle Beach, and the bustling hotel strip. The buses operate every 15 minutes from 5:45 a.m. to 6 p.m., and every 40 minutes until 11:30 p.m.

The central bus station is located in downtown Oranjestad next to Royal Plaza. A single trip costs just $2.60 and can be paid in cash on the bus. For those planning a round trip, the $5 retour card is ideal.

However, it’s worth noting that the bus system doesn’t service the route to the airport. If you’re planning a day of getting around the island, the $10 day pass gives unlimited access to all routes. Tickets can be purchased at the main bus station or online using your smartcard.

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Where to Stay in Aruba

When it comes to choosing where to stay in Aruba, it all comes down to your vacation style. If you’re all about beach bars, water sports, and a lively restaurant scene, the “High Rise” hotel area in Palm Beach is your spot. This vibrant hub is perfect for those who want to stay in the thick of the action.

Prefer a quieter vibe? Head to the “Low Rise” area near Eagle Beach, where timeshares and long-term rentals create a laid-back, home-away-from-home feel. For a culturally rich experience, consider San Nicolas on the southern coastline, known for its vibrant local art and proximity to Baby Beach.

Noord in the north offers golf courses and dramatic rocky beaches, ideal for those seeking a mix of outdoor recreation and serene views. If you’re a first-timer, I recommend you stay here as well because the hotels are reasonably priced and there are some great dining options.

Budget: Barcelo Aruba

For a hassle-free, all-inclusive escape, Barcelo Aruba delivers the quintessential vacation experience. Found on the pristine sands of Palm Beach, this resort offers everything you need for relaxation and fun in one stunning location. Families will appreciate the kids’ club, while friend groups and honeymooners can soak up the lively yet luxurious atmosphere. Check out the rates here.

Mid-range: OCEANZ Boutique Hotel

For a stay that feels as exclusive as it does stylish, OCEANZ Boutique Hotel delivers the ultimate off-the-beaten-path escape. This high-design hideaway brings a touch of luxury to a more intimate setting. It’s a refreshing alternative to the bustling resorts of Palm and Eagle Beaches. Check out the rates here.

Luxury: Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino

For travelers seeking a chic and contemporary escape, the Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino offers the ultimate island retreat. Located on the vibrant shores of Palm Beach, this stylish haven boasts spacious rooms with large balconies perfect for soaking in breathtaking sunsets. With direct beach access, a luxurious spa to melt your cares away, and a lively casino for those feeling lucky, the resort has something for everyone. Check out the rates here.

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Things to Do in Aruba

Aruba’s idyllic beaches are the biggest lure for most vacationers. However, the island also has other rather interesting activities that shouldn’t be missed. Here are some of the top things to do in Aruba;

Explore Arikok National Park

Covering 20% of Aruba’s landscape, this protected natural wonder offers a thrilling mix of rugged beauty and fascinating history. Officially protected since 2000, Arikok National Park isn’t just a geological treasure—it’s a place where many go to let off some steam. Adventure seekers can cool off in the natural pools carved by crashing waves or marvel at the natural bridges sculpted over centuries.

Also, if you love navigating rough terrain in a buggy or ATV, this is the place to be. The desert-like landscape caters to some cool off-road 4WD tours that take you through its windswept terrain. My husband and I did this 6-hour Aruba UTV tour and it was one of the highlights of our trip.

Arikok is about 28km from Aruba’s hotel zone in Noord and takes just under 40 minutes to get there. However, public buses don’t service the park and motorbikes are not allowed within its grounds, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation. We recommend you rent a 4WD vehicle for this trip because the terrain is pretty rough. The park charges an admission of $22 for adults and kids 17 and under enter for free.

Check out the California Lighthouse

Perched dramatically on Aruba’s northwestern tip, the California Lighthouse is a beacon of history and beauty. Rising over 90 feet tall against an almost lunar-like landscape, this iconic landmark offers more than just postcard-worthy views.

Built between 1914 and 1916 with French-inspired design, the California lighthouse is a tribute to the ill-fated steamship California that wrecked nearby in 1891. For just $5, you can climb to the top and be rewarded with sweeping vistas of Aruba’s stunning coastline.

Go Beach Hopping

Yes, there’s more to Aruba than the beach, but this still has to be part of your itinerary – especially if you’re traveling with kids. My daughter loves playing in the sand, so we definitely spent a lot of time on the beach.

Start at Palm Beach, where you’ll find family-friendly resorts like the Hilton, plenty of dining options, and watersports galore. If you’re looking for iconic scenery, head to Eagle Beach. For a more secluded escape, explore hidden gems like Arashi Beach, Baby Beach, or Boca Keto, where the crowds thin out but the beauty remains. If you don’t have a car, take this guided tour to explore the entire island, ending with a refreshing swim at Baby Beach.

However, it’s worth noting that renting out sun loungers comes at a premium at most Aruban beaches. At Frank’s Place, a beach chair goes for $10 and umbrellas range from $40 to $60 depending on the size. Delphi Watersports charges $70 and Eagle Beach charges $80 for the pair.

Visit De Palm Island

If you’re looking for a slice of all-inclusive island fun in Aruba, De Palm Island has you covered. Just a quick five-minute boat ride from the quay near Oranjestad, this private island packs a punch despite its modest size. Yes, it’s touristy, but who cares when there’s so much to enjoy?

From lounging on the beach and spotting flamingos to snorkeling in crystal-clear waters and tackling the waterpark, it’s a day of sun-soaked adventure. For those with kids aged 8+, the excitement ramps up with snuba, Sea Trek (think underwater exploration with space-age helmets), zip lining, and banana boat rides.

You’ll have to join a guided tour for a seamless experience on this idyllic island. Most tours are either half-day or full-day trips, so you’ll decide which one suits you depending on how much time you have to spend in Aruba.

Most of these tours offer an open bar and food for the guests. Just a heads-up: vegetarians might find the food options a bit limited, but the island’s charm and activities more than make up for it. We did this half-day trip because we had only a few days in Aruba and it was a wonderful experience.

Visit the Butterfly Farm

Just a flutter away from the bustling shores of Palm Beach, the Aruba Butterfly Farm is a serene oasis where nature’s artistry takes center stage. Step into this tropical garden, and you’ll find yourself surrounded by a kaleidoscope of delicate wings. It’s an ethereal experience that’s as educational as it is enchanting for you and the kids.

With the guidance of passionate experts, you’ll witness the magical life cycle of butterflies up close. Entry is $19 for adults and $10 for kids aged four and up, but the real treat? Your ticket includes a free return pass, valid for a month. So, if you decide to return again in a few days, you won’t pay a cent.

Check Out the Donkey Sanctuary

Found in Bringamosa, Aruba’s Donkey Sanctuary is another great activity to do with the kids. Donkeys have roamed Aruba for around 500 years, but as cars replaced these gentle animals, many were abandoned and left to fend for themselves. The sanctuary was established over two decades ago and provides a safe haven for over 100 donkeys.

The sanctuary charges no admission but you can support them through donations or buy quirky donkey-themed souvenirs. And if you don’t have transport but love wildlife and want to visit these amazing places, I recommend this 4-hour tour with a hotel pickup option to the Donkey Sanctuary, Ostrich Farm, and Philip’s Animal Garden.

Learn the Secrets of Aloe Vera

Cultivated on the island for over a century, the miraculous Aloe Vera plant is revered across Aruba. Prized for its healing properties and featured proudly on Aruba’s flag, the succulent plant has deep roots in the island’s history and culture. At the factory on in Oranjestad, you’ll learn the fascinating journey of Aloe, from field to bottle, as workers skillfully cut and prepare the plants.

A small museum offers insights into its storied past, while a peek at the factory floor reveals the meticulous processing of Aloe into high-quality skincare products. Most tours offer the tour as part of their packages. But if you rather visit on your own, admission is free.

Walk around Oranjestad

Oranjestad, Aruba’s charming capital, is the only place where you can learn about the island’s history in great depth. Unlike other Caribbean islands, Aruba’s past left behind few defensive structures—Fort Zoutman, built by the Dutch in 1798 is one of the few exceptions. The island’s oldest building now houses the historical museum and hosts the weekly Bon Bini festival, celebrating Aruba’s culture with music and dance.

As you meander through Oranjestad candy-colored streets, you’ll find shops selling Duty-Free treasures and local souvenirs. I recommend this 2.5-hour walking tour around Oranjestad’s highlights with a local expert. For the perfect snap, the blue horse statues around town make for a nice backdrop. If you dread walking for long, there’s a free trolley bus which goes past downtown to the cruise terminal.

See Flamingos on Renaissance Island

Renaissance Island is known for its Instagram-famous flamingos and is one of the most visited places in Aruba. These elegant pink residents strut along the pristine Flamingo Beach, mingling effortlessly with a lucky handful of guests. However, the island has some strict guidelines for families visiting with kids.

Kids can only join the flamingo fun between 9 and 10 a.m. Under-12s get in free while adults will need to pay a hefty $125 for the day pass. It’s also worth noting that passes are limited to a certain number every day. However, if you’re staying at the Renaissance Hotel, you can enjoy the experience without a pass.

Eat Dutch Pancakes

If you or your kid have a sweet tooth, this is the place to be. Dutch pancakes are a revelation—thinner and larger than their American cousins, yet packed with flavor and endless possibilities. Served for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, these versatile delights come in both sweet and savory styles to suit every craving.

Indulge in a sweet Dutch pancake topped with apple, ginger, banana, pineapple, or even a decadent scoop of ice cream drizzled with chocolate. Prefer savory? Try a mouthwatering combo of bacon, ham, salami, cheese, mushrooms, and onions.

The Dutch Pancake House is one of the most-visited restaurants in Aruba and shouldn’t miss on your itinerary. It is located in Oranjestad and has a pretty diverse menu. Check out the ratings here.

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Traveling to Aruba with Kids

Aruba is a tropical dream come true for families with kids! The island has everything you need for a memorable trip: pristine beaches with safe, shallow waters perfect for little swimmers, and plenty of delicious, kid-approved food. Beyond the beach, there’s a world of adventure waiting.

Explore the cactus-studded Arikok National Park on an off-road adventure, watch the flamingos on Renaissance Island, and indulge in fluffy Dutch pancakes in Oranjestad. You might not find quite as many mega attractions here as in other Caribbean islands like in Jamaica or Dominican Republic, but that’s exactly what I love about Aruba.

It’s got a distinctive character and authenticity, which are evident from the candy-colored architecture in Oranjestad. Most of the activities in our guide can be done with kids, just sort through what interests your little one and give them the adventure of their life.

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What to Eat in Aruba

Aruba’s cuisine is a delicious reflection of its rich cultural tapestry, shaped by the 90 nationalities that call the island home. Influences from African, Dutch, South African, Indonesian, Spanish, Portuguese, Indian, Chinese, and South American culinary traditions converge to create dishes bursting with flavor and history.

This melting pot of tastes delivers a symphony of spices, techniques, and ingredients that make every bite a discovery.

Here are some of the most quintessential Dutch Caribbean dishes worth trying!

• Keshi yena — A signature dish of Aruba: a round ball of cheese, usually Edam or Gouda, stuffed with spiced chicken/pork and then baked until perfection. 
• Karni stoba — This ubiquitous dish is a hearty stew made usually with goat meat and sometimes papaya.
• Funchi — This popular side-dish is basically cornmeal, a reminder of the African roots in Aruba. The consistency resembles polenta, and it’s usually served fried (similar to fries).
• Dutch Pancakes — This a very popular breakfast option. They plate-sized and thin like crepes. They are mostly topped with apple, ginger, banana, pineapple, or even a decadent scoop of ice cream drizzled with chocolate.
• Bolita di Keshi — Deep fried cheese or cheddar balls with a crusty layering. They are a common Aruban street food and are best served hot.

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Best Places to Eat in Aruba

I was really surprised by the vibrant culinary scene as you’ll find plenty of traditional local seafood spots and trendy gourmet restaurants. Most of the restaurants are located in the high-rise hotel area near Palm Beach. You’ll also find several in Oranjestad downtown.

Here are some of the best places to eat in Aruba:

• Eduardo’s Beach Shack — On the last two mornings, we had breakfast here and it was an amazing experience. It’s right on Eagle beach and it made us feel like wellness influencers in paradise. I ordered one of the fruit bowls with a banana, oat puree base and it instantly became my favorite. Read reviews here.
• Azia Restaurant & Lounge — This new trendy restaurant near Eagle Beach lets you to share—or hoard—several small plates of expertly crafted dishes that pack bold, delicious flavors. They typically serve Asian fusion food but in tapas style. I particularly loved their cocktail menu. Read reviews here.
• Bavaria German Restaurant — For a taste of Bavaria in the Caribbean, look no further than this restaurant. This spot serves up hearty classics like sauerbraten and Wiener Schnitzel, pairing them perfectly with an impressive selection of German and Belgian beers. Read reviews here.
• Zeerovers — Unlike the resort-area restaurants, this spot offers a laid-back, no-frills atmosphere with plastic tables and chairs. However, the fresh fish served here is what really makes it stand out. Read reviews here.
• Pelican Nest Seafood Grill — A small chic restaurant in Palm Beach. Great food and even better views of the Caribbean. Read reviews here.

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Cost of Travel in Aruba

While not as expensive as Curacao and Bonaire, Aruba still has a pretty high cost of living and prices are comparable to that of Western Europe. It is part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands after all, and one of the wealthiest islands in the Caribbean.

Living standards and prices are naturally high but you can still score some nice discounts.

• Accommodation — An Airbnb costs minimum of US$20 per night, while a more upscale beachfront hotel can go for $300-800 per room.
• Food — The average cost for meals in Aruba is around $112 ((À201)) per person per day. Expect to spend anywhere from $46 to $247 daily, depending on their dining choices. Breakfast and lunch tend to be less expensive than dinner. However, prices can vary significantly based on the type of restaurant and what you order.
• Supermarket — Groceries in Aruba are about 5–6% more expensive than in the US, primarily because the island imports most of its food. For example, a gallon of regular milk costs around $6.55, while a pound of fresh white bread is about $2.66. A pound of white rice is relatively affordable at $1.73, and a dozen regular eggs will set you back around $4.61.

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How to Travel to Aruba on a Budget

Like most Caribbean islands, Aruba can be really expensive. However, with some proper planning you can trim the costs to make the most of your trip.

Here are a few tips:

• Visit in the summer — Winter months (December, January, and February) make up the high season in Aruba. Hotels tend to charge a premium for accommodation. These fees can quickly eat into your budget, so plan your trip in the summer when prices reset.
• Carry a towel to the beach — Most beaches in Aruba are public but the cost of renting out beach equipment is quite high (around $60-80). To avoid these costs, just carry a towel with you on your trip to the beach.
• Stay in Airbnbs —Airbnbs are generally cheaper than hotels in Aruba. You can book an Airbnb with fully-equipped kitchen and swimming pool for around US$60/night in the low season.
• Cook your own meals — Shop at local supermarkets and cook instead of eating out for every meal. We made breakfast and lunch everyday and ate out for dinner. Ling & Sons Food Market in Oranjestad is one of the best stores for groceries.
• Bring your gear — Pack your snorkeling mask, beach shoes, fins, sunscreen and mosquito repellant, to avoid having to buy them in Aruba.

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Internet and Data in Aruba

You can also easily get an eSIM card before you go. We always buy our eSIM on Airalo and it has worked really well everywhere we’ve traveled. We had unlimited internet data, with reception even on the remote beaches. Get your eSIM here.

For digital nomads who plan to work remotely in Aruba, you’ll be thrilled to know the internet speed is one of the fastest in the Caribbean. The average download speed is around 89.81 Mbps. There are also several co-working spaces on the island such as Workspace Aruba, Impact Hub, and Futura Spaces, among others.

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Language of Aruba

Because of their history, most people in Aruba speak at least four languages: Papiamentu, Dutch, Spanish and English. I was so impressed that everyone we met on the island was multilingual. We definitely did not encounter any issues communicating with people.

Papiamentu is the local Creole language (spoken in the Dutch Caribbean islands) that’s a fascinating mixture of Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch and African dialects. It has a large percentage of Spanish words and is quite easy to understand if you speak Spanish like we do.

Here are some common words you’ll hear often:

• Bon bini! — Welcome!
• Con ta bai? — How are you?
• Bon dia! — Good morning!
• Danki! — Thank you!
• Na bo ordo — You’re welcome

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Plan Your Trip to Aruba

Aruba is one of those places you’ll never forget, a stunning island that packs a lot of adventure. Plus, there are so many things to do that you’ll be spoilt for choice. Let me know if you have any questions in the comments field below.

Here are more articles on Caribbean travel below:

• Curacao Travel Guide
• Hiking and Biking on Nevis
• 10-day Dominican Republic Itinerary
• Best Caribbean Islands for Families
• 28 Things to Do in Trinidad and Tobago
• St Kitts: The Caribbean Without the Crowd
• Climbing La Soufriere Volcano on St Vincent
• Dominican Republic with Kids
• 24 Things to Do in Curacao
• Costa Rica with Kids
• Best Places to Visit in Jamaica

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links i.e. I’ll get a small commission when you book anything through my links, at NO extra cost to you. I only recommend companies I have personally used and enjoyed.

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