Aruba Travel Tips
Essential insider knowledge to make your Aruba trip smooth, safe, and unforgettable.
16 tips found
US Dollars Are Accepted Everywhere
The official currency is the Aruban Florin (AWG), but US dollars are accepted at virtually every business on the island. Credit cards work at most places. ATMs dispense both florins and dollars. You really don't need to exchange currency.
Tipping Culture in Aruba
Many restaurants add a 10-15% service charge to the bill automatically - check before adding more. For exceptional service, an additional 5-10% is appreciated. Tip in USD is perfectly fine. Hotel housekeeping: $2-3/day.
Aruba is the Safest Caribbean Island
The US State Department rates Aruba as Level 1 (normal precautions). Violent crime against tourists is extremely rare. Use common sense: don't leave valuables on the beach, use hotel safes, and be aware of your surroundings at night. The island has a very low crime rate.
Strict Drug Laws - Not Like Amsterdam
Despite being part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Aruba enforces drug laws strictly. Possession of any controlled substance including marijuana is illegal and rigorously enforced, even against tourists. Penalties are severe.
No Uber or Lyft - Taxis Only
Ride-sharing apps do not operate in Aruba. Government-regulated taxis use flat rates (no meters). Always confirm the fare before getting in. Alternatively, rent a car for maximum freedom - it's the best way to explore the island. Public buses (Arubus) are cheap but limited.
Rent a Car for the Full Experience
A rental car is the best way to explore Aruba independently. You drive on the right side. A regular car works for most attractions, but rent a 4x4/Jeep if you plan to visit the Natural Pool or off-road areas. Book early in peak season. Never leave valuables visible in your car.
Tap Water is 100% Safe to Drink
Aruba's tap water is desalinated seawater that meets the highest international quality standards. It's completely safe to drink straight from the tap. No need to buy bottled water - save money and reduce plastic waste.
Complete Your ED Card Before Flying
You must fill out the Embarkation/Disembarkation (ED) card online at edcardaruba.aw before your flight. It includes a $20 Sustainability Fee. Do this before arriving at the airport. Beware of scam sites charging extra fees - only use the official .aw domain.
Every Season is Good - But Some Are Better
Aruba sits outside the hurricane belt with year-round sunshine and 82°F average temps. Peak season (Dec-Apr) has perfect weather but highest prices. Shoulder season (May-Jun, Nov) offers great deals with excellent weather. Low season (Jul-Oct) has the best rates - still sunny with occasional brief showers.
Sunscreen is Non-Negotiable
At 12° north of the equator, the Aruba sun is intense. Use SPF 50+ and reapply every 2 hours, especially after swimming. Choose reef-safe sunscreen to protect the coral reefs. Wear a hat, stay hydrated, and seek shade during 11 AM - 3 PM if possible.
Pack Water Shoes
Many of Aruba's best snorkeling spots and the Natural Pool have rocky entries. Water shoes are essential and will make your experience much more enjoyable. Also great for the rough terrain around Arikok National Park.
Everyone Speaks English (and 3 Other Languages)
Arubans are remarkably multilingual - most speak Papiamento (the local creole), Dutch, English, and Spanish. You will never have a language barrier as a tourist. Learning a few Papiamento phrases like 'Bon dia' (good morning) and 'Masha danki' (thank you very much) will delight locals.
Don't Miss the Local Food
Go beyond resort restaurants! Try keshi yena (cheese stuffed with meat), pastechi (fried pastry turnovers - $1-3 at bakeries), pan bati, and goat stew. Visit Zeerovers for the freshest seafood. Food trucks serve full meals for $5-10. The culinary scene reflects 90+ nationalities.
Save Money Without Missing Out
Visit in low season for 30-50% cheaper hotels. Eat pastechi for breakfast ($2), Zeerovers for lunch ($12), and use happy hours (4-7 PM). Public buses cost $2.50. All beaches are free and public. Book a rental with a kitchen. Buy alcohol at duty-free shops, not resort bars.
Venture Beyond the Hotel Strip
Most tourists never leave Palm/Eagle Beach. Head south to San Nicolas for incredible street art, Savaneta for authentic local life, Mangel Halto for secret snorkeling, and Arikok for dramatic landscapes. The real Aruba is beyond the resort zone.
WiFi and Phone Coverage
Most hotels and restaurants offer free WiFi. Cell coverage is excellent island-wide. US carriers often include Aruba in their international plans. Alternatively, buy a local SETAR SIM card at the airport for affordable data. Download offline maps before your trip just in case.
Quick Reference
Currency
Aruban Florin (AWG) / USD accepted everywhere
Language
Papiamento, Dutch, English, Spanish
Electricity
120V / 60Hz (US-style plugs)
Time Zone
AST (UTC-4) - No daylight saving
Emergency
911 (police, fire, ambulance)
Tap Water
100% safe to drink