Aruba • Caribbean • Travel Tips

23 Things you should know before visiting Aruba

Hey there, adventure seekers! Are you ready for a tropical getaway on the beautiful island of Aruba? Before you pack your bags and get on that flight, there are a few things you should know to make the most of your trip.

Check out our YouTube video on Top 19 Best Things To Do in Aruba – Travel Guide 🇦🇼

Let me tell you, Aruba is a little piece of paradise, and we were so lucky to be able to visit it. But there were a few things we wish we had known before setting foot on the island. So, to help you get the most out of your trip, we’ve put together this list of 23 things you should know before visiting Aruba. From bringing bug spray to understanding the tap-to-pay system, we’ve got all the information you need to make the most of your trip. So, grab a drink, make yourself comfortable, and let’s dive into what you need to know before visiting the beautiful island of Aruba!

ARUBA IS WINDY

One thing you need to know before visiting Aruba is that it can get really windy! Aruba is known for its trade winds, which can get pretty strong at times. Now, don’t let that scare you away! The wind actually makes the weather in Aruba very nice and helps cool you down on hot, sunny days. But it’s definitely worth mentioning because it can catch you off guard if you’re not prepared.

So, bring a light scarf or shawl to protect your hair and skin from the wind, and be careful with loose items like hats and sunglasses that could easily blow away. And, trust me, the wind in Aruba will become one of the things you love about the island once you get used to it.

✈️ Find cheap flights to Aruba

2. GAMBLING IS LEGAL IN ARUBA

So, if you like gambling, you’ll be happy to know that gambling is fully legal in Aruba! There are several casinos on the island, and each one has a wide range of games, from slot machines to table games like blackjack and roulette. Just remember that the legal age to gamble in Aruba is 18, so if you plan to go to the casinos, make sure to bring a valid ID with you. And, of course, never gamble more than you can afford to lose. Have fun, but stay safe!

3. ARUBA IS OUTSIDE OF THE HURRICANE BELT

I’ve got some good news for you: Aruba is located outside of the hurricane belt, so you won’t have to worry about major storms during your visit. However, even though the island itself is protected from hurricanes, it can still get quite rainy when a hurricane passes by the area.

So, if you’re going to visit during hurricane season, which is usually from June to November, it’s a good idea to bring a rain jacket and be ready for a few rainy days. But don’t worry, the rain usually only lasts a short time, and the sun will come back out soon enough!

🛟 Get cheap travel insurance for Aruba

4. LEGAL DRINKING AGE IS 18

If you plan to drink while you’re in Aruba, keep in mind that you have to be 18 to do so legally. So, if you are of legal age, you can enjoy a cold beer or a fruity cocktail while soaking up the sun on one of the island’s beautiful beaches.

If you plan on partying the night away, just remember to drink responsibly and always have a designated driver. Remember, public drunkenness is not tolerated, and it is currently illegal to consume alcohol on any other beaches, parking lots, parks, or in any public place in Aruba unless it is a licensed establishment, so always be mindful of your behavior and respect the local laws and customs. Cheers!

5. YOU CAN DRINK TAP WATER IN ARUBA

You might be surprised to learn that, unlike many other Caribbean islands, Aruba’s tap water is completely safe to drink! In fact, Aruba is thought to have some of the cleanest water in the world. This means you won’t have to worry about buying bottled water on your trip, which is not only more convenient but also better for the environment. So, fill your water bottle from the tap and enjoy the clean, refreshing flavor of Aruban water.

🏝 Find things to do in Aruba

6. BEST TIME TO VISIT

The best time to visit the island really depends on what you’re looking for. If you like warm weather and basking in the sun, you should visit between the end of December and the beginning of April. This is when temperatures are in the high 80s to low 90s and the sun is shining.

On the other hand, if you want to avoid crowds and save some money, you might want to go during the low season, which runs from May to November. Just one thing to know before visiting Aruba is that it can get pretty hot and humid in the summer, and there is a chance of heavy rains, so pack accordingly.

But, to be honest, whatever time of year you visit, Aruba will provide you with a memorable experience and wonderful weather all year long!

7. FORGET ABOUT THE HOT SHOWER

We just wanted to give you a heads-up about the accommodations in Aruba. There are some budget-friendly options, but it’s important to know that some of these places might not have hot water. This may come as a surprise to those of us who are accustomed to hot showers, but it’s important to remember that this is actually quite common in Aruba.

Many locals do not have hot water in their homes because they believe that the weather is always warm enough and that hot water is unnecessary. However, I know from personal experience that this may not be the case, especially if you are like me and enjoy a nice hot shower. But don’t worry; for us, this was not a deal-breaker at all. Boiling water to take a shower actually turned out to be a fun experience that added to the overall adventure of our trip.

So, when it comes to things to know before visiting Aruba, keep this in mind when selecting your accommodation. And if hot water is a must-have for you, consider splurging on a more luxurious accommodation.

8. THERE ARE BEACHES EVERYWHERE

Unarguably, one of the best things about Aruba is its beautiful beaches. And the good news is that there are beaches everywhere! Aruba has something for everyone, whether you want a quiet stretch of sand or a lively party scene. It’s as if the island was designed specifically for beach lovers!

And the best part? Every beach is different and unique in its own way. From the beautiful turquoise waters of Eagle Beach to the famous divi-divi trees of Palm Beach, you’ll be amazed by the variety of landscapes and things to do. So pack your sunscreen and beach towel, and get ready to explore some of the most beautiful beaches in the world!

9. ARUBANS SPEAK FOUR LANGUAGES

Although English is widely spoken on Aruba, the island is actually multilingual, with residents speaking Dutch, Spanish, Papiamento (the local language), and English. The people of Aruba are extremely kind and welcoming, and one of the things that makes them so special is that they can speak up to four languages! You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to communicate with locals wherever you go. This really adds to the island’s charm and makes it a truly unique place to visit.

So, whether you’re asking for directions, placing an order at a restaurant, or just chatting with someone on the beach, you’ll never feel like a stranger in Aruba. And who knows, maybe you’ll learn a few new words or phrases along the way.

10. THERE IS ALWAYS SOMETHING TO DO IN ARUBA

There is so much to do in Aruba, from exploring the island’s beautiful national parks to trying your hand at windsurfing. This little island is a real gem, and it’s full of unique and amazing things to do. From the beautiful beaches to the exciting things to do, you will be amazed at every turn. But don’t just stay at the resort or in touristy areas. Get out and see what else the island has to offer. Just trust us—it’s worth it!

Aruba has so much to offer, from its vibrant culture and delicious cuisine to its hidden coves and breathtaking landscapes. So don’t be afraid to get out of your comfort zone, try something new, and see what this amazing island has in store for you. We guarantee you will not regret it!

11. YOU CAN PAY IN USD

Aruba uses the florin as its currency, but US dollars are widely accepted. This is great news, especially if you are traveling from the US. You don’t have to worry about changing your money or figuring out the exchange rate. Just bring your US dollars or a credit card, and you’ll be able to pay for all your purchases with no issues. This is one less thing for you to worry about as you plan your trip to Aruba. So just sit back, relax, and know that paying in Aruba will be a breeze!

12. YOU MAY WANT TO RENT A CAR

If you’re going to Aruba, you might want to consider renting a car. This way, you’ll be able to explore the island at your own pace and not be limited to just the touristy spots. Trust us, Aruba has so many things to see and do that you won’t want to miss anything!

Now, if you want to go to Arikok National Park, we strongly suggest that you rent a jeep for the day. This way, you’ll be able to go off-roading and see all the amazing things the park has to offer. And if you aren’t into off-roading, you can still explore the park in a regular car. Just remember that you won’t be able to get to the famous Natural Pool or go on any other off-road adventures. But don’t worry; even without a Jeep, there’s still a lot to see and do in the park.

So, whether you rent a car, a Jeep, or both, make sure to enjoy the freedom and see everything Aruba has to offer!

🚗 Compare car rental prices in Aruba!

TIPS:

➳ Book a car and a Jeep well in advance, as we went in the off-season and still had trouble renting a car about two weeks ahead of time.

➳ Get full car insurance on your rental. This saved us a lot of money when we scratched our Jeep.

➳ Aruba doesn't have many street lights, and we only saw one while exploring the entire island, but it does have a lot of roundabouts, which can be confusing if you're not used to them.

13. YOU CAN VISIT ARUBA ON A BUDGET

If you’re thinking of a trip to Aruba but are worried about the cost, don’t be! This is definitely an important thing for many to know before visiting Aruba. While Aruba can be an expensive destination, it can also be visited on a budget. Even though the island is known for its expensive resorts, there are plenty of budget-friendly options for accommodations and food. From Airbnb rentals to street food, you can find cheap ways to have a great time without breaking the bank. And don’t forget to use the free beaches and enjoy all the natural beauty the island has to offer!

TIP: Most of the Airbnbs in Aruba look pretty basic, so don't expect anything better for a higher price. However, we got lucky and rented a small, modern place for under $500 for the whole nine days. Did we give up a hot shower to get this deal? We sure did.

14. FLAMINGOS ARE NOT NATIVE TO ARUBA

When most people think of Aruba, they think of flamingos, but don’t expect to see them all over the island like you might in other tropical destinations. The truth is that flamingos are not native to Aruba, but you can still see them if you want to! The best place to hang out with flamingos in Aruba is on the private Renaissance Island owned by Marriott Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort.

Just keep in mind that this island experience tends to sell out quickly, especially during peak season, so unless you are staying at their hotel, make sure to plan this adventure ahead of time. Trust me, it’s well worth it for the one-of-a-kind experience and stunning photos!

🦩 Read How To Visit Flamingo Beach in Aruba 🦩

15. ALMOST 20% OF ARUBA IS NATIONAL PARK

If you enjoy nature and the great outdoors, you’ll be pleased to learn that nearly 20% of Aruba is designated as a national park! This means there are lots of chances to try new things and explore Aruba’s unique and beautiful landscape.

If you enjoy being outside, you’ll want to spend some time hiking, taking scenic drives, or even visiting the famous Natural Pool in the Arikok National Park in Aruba. The island has a lot to offer, and you won’t want to miss a chance to see its natural beauty.

16. LEAVE EARLY FOR THE AIRPORT

Just so you know, if you’re flying back to the US after your trip to Aruba, make sure to leave the island with plenty of time before your flight. Three hours is the preferred minimum, but four hours may be even better during peak season. That’s because US Customs is in Aruba, so you’ll have to clear customs before continuing your trip back to the States.

Trust me, there’s nothing worse than rushing through customs and missing your flight, and the lines can get pretty long, especially during the busy season. So, make sure you plan ahead and give yourself plenty of time so that everything goes smoothly and you don’t get stressed out.

17. ARUBA IS PART OF THE NETHERLANDS

One of the most fun things to know before visiting Aruba is that even though the island is in the southern Caribbean, it is actually a part of the Netherlands. This means you’ll get to experience a unique mix of Dutch and Caribbean culture while you’re there.

Aruba has a lot to discover, from the architecture to the food, and its connection to the Netherlands is just one of the many fascinating aspects of this beautiful island.

So, don’t be surprised if you come across some Dutch-style windmills or traditional cheese alongside the beautiful beaches and swaying palm trees. All of these things are part of what makes Aruba such a unique place to visit.

18. YOU CAN BRING YOUR DRONE

If you’re a drone enthusiast, you’ll be glad to know that you can bring your drone with you to Aruba. We brought ours and had no problems flying it around the island. Just make sure you follow the rules and regulations for using a drone, and you’ll be good to go. I guarantee you’ll be able to capture some incredible footage and memories with your drone while exploring Aruba.

Also, the strong winds weren’t much of a problem most of the time, even though we were really worried they might be.

19. THERE IS A SERVICE CHARGE IN THE RESTAURANTS

When you eat at a restaurant in Aruba, be aware that a 15%–20% service charge is often added to your bill. This is an important thing to know before visiting Aruba, because some waiters may say that this additional charge is not their tip and ask for more, but in reality, it is their tip. They are usually asking for more because they are taxed on this amount and must share it with other staff members, so it is really up to you if you want to add additional gratuity or not.

You are not required to leave an additional tip on top of that, but we just wanted to give you a heads-up so you’re prepared before visiting the island.

20. YOU CAN USE APPLE PAY IN ARUBA

We were happy to find out that we could use Apple Pay to pay for things in Aruba, so we didn’t have to worry about bringing cash or a credit card. But whenever we asked for Apple Pay in stores or restaurants, they often looked pretty confused. Well, we soon figured out that in Aruba, it’s better to say “tap to pay” instead.

So, if you’re visiting and want to use your Apple Pay, just remember to say “tap to pay,” and you’ll have a hassle-free payment experience. It made our trip so much easier once we knew the proper term.

21. BRING REEF-SAFE SUNSCREEN

If you plan to swim or snorkel while you’re in Aruba, which, as we know by now, is a popular thing to do there, be sure to bring reef-safe sunscreen. This type of sunscreen is easier on coral reefs and won’t hurt the delicate marine life. Coral reefs are facing numerous threats these days, and we must all do our part to protect them.

Sunscreens containing oxybenzone have actually been banned in Aruba because they are harmful to marine life. So, if you are planning a trip to Aruba, do yourself and the environment a favor by bringing a reef-safe sunscreen. Your skin and the ocean will both be grateful.

22. BRING CASH FOR RESTROOM

While most restrooms in Aruba are free, some may charge a small fee. Most of the time, it’s just a few coins, but it’s good to have some change on hand just in case. Trust me, you don’t want to be stuck in a bind without it. So, bring a few coins and be prepared. You’ll definitely be happy you did! Thank us later.

23. BRING BUG REPELLENT

Finally, don’t forget to bring bug repellent! There are A LOT of mosquitoes, especially at night and early in the morning. And believe me, you don’t want to get bitten up while on vacation. We made the mistake of not bringing enough bug spray, and we paid the price. The mosquitoes almost ate us alive. So, if you don’t want to be bothered, bring enough bug spray to last the whole trip. Your skin will appreciate it.

I hope this list has been helpful in getting you prepared for your next island adventure and has helped you get a better understanding of what to expect on your trip. If you have any questions or additional tips to share, please leave a comment below or send us a message on Instagram. We love hearing from you! So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen and fins, and get ready for a great adventure in Aruba. Happy travels!

Top 30 Best Gifts For Travelers

The Ultimate Aruba Travel Guide

How To Visit Flamingo Beach in Aruba

Last updated: February 2023

We’d love to know what you think about this post!

Become a part of our travel community on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, or Facebook and tell us all about your adventures. Or, simply share your thoughts in the comments below!

Hey! Maja & Marcel here!

♥️

Our goal is to inspire you and simplify your travel planning by sharing practical tips from our years of traveling around the globe. Join us as we reveal unique experiences and amazing destinations through engaging travel blogs, photos, and videos.Are you ready to join our exciting and unpredictable journey?

…