10 Things You Need to Know before Traveling to Aruba

Learn the key things you need to know before your first trip to Aruba, from location and things to do to restaurants and safety.

If you’re looking for a beach or island vacation and perplexed by which Caribbean Island to choose, first of all, I commend you on having such a “first world problem”, and admit I was right there with you.  

With dozens of beautiful beaches and islands in the Caribbean, picking the right one is hard!  Ultimately, I like to believe you can’t go wrong. If you’ve decided on traveling to Aruba, here’s what you need to know!

Disclosure: Some of the links below may be affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase.

Things to Know Before Visiting Aruba

Traveling in Aruba is actually pretty easy. It is a common tourist destination and offers all of the conveniences and perks you might expect on vacation. And, perhaps best of all, the locals in Aruba are super friendly and helpful. When in doubt, just ask!

Here are 10 key reasons to visit Aruba, all of which we’ll dive into in greater detail in this post.

1. Aruba’s Location: Being located close to the US, Aruba makes an ideal short getaway, especially since you don’t need a travel visa when flying to Aruba from the US!  Additionally, Aruba is part of the ABC Islands, along with Bonaire and Curacao, othering not only beautiful sights but a bit of a Dutch influence in parts of the island.

2. Activities & Things to Do in Aruba: Beautiful beaches, world-class resorts, casinos, spas, nightlife, amazing food… what more could you want? Aruba has one of the best beaches in the world right at your fingertips: Eagle Beach. It was rated #5 in the world by Trip Advisor for 2022.

3. Amazing Places to Stay: Aruba offers a full host of luxury resorts making it the perfect vacation destination. However, if you’re on a budget, you can also find budget accommodations from cheap hotels to hostels.

4. Cost & Currency of Aruba: You can use US dollars making it super easy to adopt to life in Aruba.

5. Aruba Transportation & Size: At only 16.9 miles x 6 miles, Aruba is a small island. You can thoroughly explore it within a few days using the many transportation options available, leaving plenty of time for pure relaxation.

6. Delicious Food & Drink: Being located in the Caribbean, you’ll find plenty of fresh fish readily available in Aruba, not to mention the drinks are flowing in this vacation destination!

7. Beautiful Weather: The weather remains almost perfect year round averaging 82 F (28 C) and sunny.  As an added bonus, it’s outside the hurricane belt!

8. Language: While the official languages are Dutch and the local Papiamento, most Arubians are fluent in English and Spanish making getting around a breeze.

9. Safety: Aruba is a very safe island! From wandering around the island to drinking water straight from the tap, you’ll feel safe and secure in Aruba!

10. Connectivity: Aruba offers stable Electricity & Wifi. Power is available 24/7. (Yes, there are many places in the world this isn’t true!)  And your American plugs will work without an adapter!  Not to mention WiFi is common place. 

Caribbean Location of Aruba

If you’re trying to find out “where is Aruba?” you’re in the right spot.

Located right above Venezuela and part of the ABC Islands, Aruba has earned its spot as one of the top Caribbean destinations. It’s not just the beautiful scenery or the vacation vibes this “One Happy Island” puts off, but also the convenient distance and flights from the United States.

To sweeten the deal, Aruba is located outside of the hurricane belt and offers steady weather year round. Something that makes it and the other ABC Islands unique to the Caribbean.

Top Things to Do in Aruba

There are plenty of things to do in Aruba to keep you entertained for a few days or a full week – particularly if you love the beach!

1. Beach Hop

This is really the main reason to travel to Aruba.  The island is lined with one beautiful beach after another.  However, if you feel so inclined to remove yourself from the view of the beach and ocean, there are other things to do.

Having personally explored as many beaches as possible around the island, Eagle Beach gets by vote as the best (and not just because TripAdvisor said so).  It is postcard perfect.  Think sparkling blue water, fine-grain white sand, and no seaweed or trash.  As a bonus, the sun sets on this side of the island too making it beautiful all day and all evening! 

2. Climb the (second) highest point in Aruba

Hooiberg Mountain is the second highest point on the island of Aruba. Hooiberg translates to Haystack. While it is not the tallest, it is the one you can climb, in just 587 steps. I recommend you go early to beat the heat of midday. They claim you can see Venezuela on clear days, but the jury is still out on that one. Let me know if you can see it!

3. Visit the Casibari and Ayo Rock Formations

I get it, they’re rocks, but considering that fact, the Casibari and Ayo Rock Formations are much more interesting than I would have thought.  Expect to see lots of cacti and some wild goats around them. They really are more like wild park settings.

4. Explore downtown Oranjestad

The capital of Aruba, Oranjestad, is a cruise port.  Depending if there are ships in port, downtown could be very lively, or it could be mostly quiet with lots of shops and restaurants closed.  Either way, Censo (City Hall), Fort Zoutman – the Historical Museum, parks, restaurants, and souvenir shops await. It’s worth spending half of a day exploring what it has to offer.

5. Visit the Arikok National Park

Arikok National Park covers over 20% of the island of Aruba. It features rugged terrain with deser-like hills covered in cacti along with caves and natural pools to keep you busy.  You’ll want to make sure to include Arikok Hilltop, Conchi Natural Pool, Jamanota Hilltop, Fontein Cave, Quadiriki Cave, Boca Prins, and Dos Playa on your National Park itinerary. Be warned, you will need a 4×4 to get around the rough terrain.

6. Snorkeling and scuba diving

If you’re a water lover, Aruba offers great water activities including snorkeling and scuba diving at reasonable prices. You can find some snorkeling locations just off of the beach while others you will need a rental car or boat tour to reach. The most popular location is of course the Antilla shipwreck, but the best would be Mangel Halto.

7. Visit other attractions

There are a lot of additional attractions and tours available around Aruba: California lighthouse, Alto Vista Chapel, Bushiribana (Goldmine Ruins), and more.

Planning ahead? Here are some activities to consider:

Things to Skip: Bubali Bird Sanctuary

Unless you’re really into birds, there’s nothing to see at Bubali Bird Sanctuary but a platform overlooking a marsh here.  What I’m trying to say is… It was completely underwhelming. There weren’t even birds to be seen.

Where to Stay in Aruba

As with any vacation spot, traveling to Aruba you’ll find a wide array of accommodation options so that no matter what your budget is, you can find the right option for your trip. Here are your best bets.

All-Inclusive Resorts in Aruba

Many of those traveling to Aruba are in search of relaxation, pampering, and perhaps even enjoying the island as their honeymoon destination. For maximum relaxation, consider staying at an all-inclusive resort in Aruba. Here are some of the best options on the island:

• Riu Palace Aruba: This 5-star resort in Aruba is located on Palm Beach and offers all the luxury you would expect from a top notch all inclusive.

• Barceló Aruba: Located on Eagle Beach, you’ll find this all inclusive resort in Aruba includes 7 restaurants, daily activities, water sports, an onsite casino, nightly live entertainment, and more!

• Manchebo Beach Resort and Spa: Choose from 3 different onsite restaurants at this low rise all-inclusive resort on Eagle Beach. You’ll find the benefits of the low rise to include a less crowded beachfront!

Check Out: Best All Inclusive Resorts in Aruba – for Adults Only & for Families!

Hotels and Resorts in Aruba

There are hundreds of hotels in Aruba, many of which are resorts or resorts and casinos.  If you are looking for a true vacation experience at a price tag a bit cheaper than the all-inclusive resorts in Aruba, this is the route to go.  Here are some recommended hotels to get started:

• Budget-friendly: Dorado Eagle Beach Hotel
• Mid-range: Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort
• Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba

Rental Properties & Villas in Aruba

There are plenty of rentals and villas available on Airbnb to rent on the island.  These are particularly good if you are coming with a larger group, but remember that you may miss out on all of the benefits of a resort such as on-site restaurants and bars, a nearby beach, and a luxurious pool.

Read more: Top 5 Sites for Finding an Affordable Hotel

The Currency and Cost of Traveling to Aruba

Overall things in Aruba are priced similarly to the US.  It is definitely not a budget destination. However, you can use the US dollar everywhere in Aruba. In fact, you won’t even need to have the local Aruba Florin to travel around Aruba.  A few important things to note as you explore Aruba.

Is Aruba expensive to visit?

Like much of the Caribbean, Aruba can be expensive to visit. With pricey taxi rides, most items, including food, being imported, and an abundance of all-inclusive resorts, Aruba is not typically a budget-friendly destination. However, if you are on a strict budget, you can keep costs low by sticking to hostels or Airbnbs, using the public buses, and picking up some key food items at the local stores.

Find the average cost of visiting Aruba and some cost saving tips.

Service Charges and Tipping in Aruba

When dining out, it’s important to know that service charges are sometimes added automatically, and sometimes they are not.  Get used to checking for this and tip as you would in the US, about 20%. If a service charge is included, a smaller amount left for great service is appreciated.

Happy Hours around the Island

Most bars offer happy hour prices, sometimes even two for one deals, at different times throughout the day.  If you’re looking for a drink, take advantage of these to save some of your hard earned cash.

Save more money with these 44 Pro Tips to Save Money While Traveling.

Transportation: How to Get around Aruba

There are lots of great transportation options to get around Aruba. Whether you want full flexibility, or just want to be able to go out to dinner once in a while, you can get almost anywhere on the island with these options.

Taxis

Taxis are readily available and if you don’t see one, any hotel or restaurant can call one for you.  The taxi prices are set by the government so there is no negotiating or concerns of price gouging.  The costs are based off of sections of the island (low rise, high rise, downtown, etc.). At night the prices are $3 higher.

Rental Cars

Taking taxis everywhere can get expensive.  Because of this, renting a car is the best way to thoroughly explore the island – even if it’s just for one day!  Car rentals typically cost right around $60/day, but if you intend to do a lot of traveling around the island it may be worth renting a car for the whole trip.  On the other hand, if you don’t intend to leave your resort, there is no need! 

Looking for a rental car? Try Discover Cars.
You can search and compare car rentals from 500+ suppliers to find the best rates for your trip – not to mention they have no hidden costs, 24/7 support, and free cancellation.

Public Buses around the Island

There are inexpensive buses which travel regularly up and down the resort strip and into downtown Oranjestad. It’s called Arubus, and it runs every 15 minutes from 5:45 am – 6 pm and then every 40 minutes up to 11:30pm. You’ll find the main bus terminal is located in downtown Oranjestad adjacent to the cruise port.

Maps of Aruba

Download the Aruba Travel Guide app. That’s right, Aruba actually offers an app with a ton of valuable information for people traveling to Aruba. Once you download it, it’s all available offline – including a map!

Food & Drink in Aruba

Situated in the Caribbean, you’ll find lots of traditional island fare as you explore the restaurants and bars around Aruba.

Where to Eat in Aruba: Aruba Restaurants

The food in Aruba is delicious and fresh, particularly if you like seafood! If you’re looking for something special, here are a couple of restaurant suggestions that stood out during my first trip to Aruba.

1. Pinchos Grill & Bar: It sits out over the water offering amazing sunset views and a delightful sea breeze.

2. Flying Fishbone: This restaurant offers you the chance to eat with your feet in the water. 

You will want to make reservations in advance as they do book up. But don’t worry if you don’t get around to making them, there are plenty of restaurant options on the island. 

If you want more Aruba restaurants to choose from, try Elements, Passions, Barefoot, Papiamento, Wacky Wahoo, or Wilhelmina.

Pro Tip: If you have not rented a car, verify how far the restaurant is from your hotel prior to making reservations. It may cost you $30 there, and another $30 back otherwise, not including dinner prices! 

Where to Drink in Aruba: Aruba Bars

There are so many beach bars along the hotel strip in Aruba. You will certainly not go without. And, remember to look for special happy hour pricing! Here are a couple must visit bars to keep you well hydrated!

1. Moomba Beach Bar: This tiki bar is one of the most legendary bars in Aruba. It offers all kinds of drink specials and events throughout the week.

2. Bugaloe Beach Bar: Located over the water on De Palm Pier, this bar offers fun events through the week like karaoke, live bands, salsa dancing, and of course late night happy hour specials.

Weather in Aruba

Best Time of Year to Visit Aruba

Sitting outside of the hurricane belt, Aruba is a great destination year round. No matter what time you visit, you’ll be greeting with similar weather featuring sun and highs in the 80s. Because of this, the best time of year to visit Aruba really comes down to the demand.

Winter tends to be high season for tourism meaning the prices and crowds will increase. This is mostly due to the northerners escaping winter. That means that summer can be a prime time to escape to the sunny shore on the island of Aruba.

What to Pack for a Trip to Aruba

Mode of dress on Aruba is like any other Caribbean island.  Bring your beach gear for during the day and then pack some slightly nicer clothes for dinners and evenings out.  Overall, Aruba is a pretty casual place.  Just don’t forget to pack LOTS of sunscreen!

Check out the essential Beach Packing List.

Language in Aruba

The official languages of Aruba are Dutch and the local Papiamento language, however most Arubians are also fluent in English and Spanish. This makes it generally pretty easy to get around the island. That be

ing said, remember that Aruba is a Dutch island and be respectful to those who may not speak your language as you are a visitor to their island.

Safety: Is it safe to vacation in Aruba?

If you find yourself wondering if Aruba is safe, we’ve got the answer. As compared to many Caribbean Islands, Aruba’s crime rate is low, but crime does exist. Just use common sense and typical precautions, like avoiding secluded areas, particularly at night. And be careful when swimming off the northeastern side of the island as it is susceptible to strong riptides.

Is Aruba a poor country?

Aruba is actually one of the wealthier islands in the Caribbean as well as Central and South America.  This is largely due to its thriving tourism industry. This of course has some trickle down effects like a higher quality of life as well as a lower crime rate.

To help you stay safe in Aruba, check out these 35 awesome travel safety tips.

Learn More about Traveling to Aruba

If you’re looking for a simple Caribbean beach vacation, traveling to Aruba is the perfect choice!  After all, it is “One Happy Island”! You can get all the R&R you want, without much stress. What are you waiting for?

Here’s some more information on Aruba to make your trip go smoothly:

• Where is Aruba? Location, Maps, and Facts
• Get to Know the ABC Islands in the Caribbean
• The Cost of Visiting Aruba + 12 Best Ways to Save Money in Aruba
• 10 Things You Need to Know before Traveling to Aruba
• Best All Inclusive Resorts in Aruba – for Adults Only & for Families!

If you have more questions, feel free to drop them in the comments!

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