Tips for Going to Aruba for the First Time

By: Leah Shoup

You’ll most likely want to rent a car.

Aruba visitors can use taxis to get around, but we highly suggest renting a car. This way, you’re free to explore the island at your own speed.

You don’t have to stay at a resort or hotel.

Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort (adults only) is one of our favorites, but there are also affordable vacation rentals near Palm Beach or Eagle Beach.

Flamingo beach is in Aruba, and you’ll want to visit!

When staying at Renaissance Aruba Resort, the entrance to Renaissance Private Island is included. If not, you’ll need to secure island passes.

Escape the crowds away from the cruise ports.

Aruba tourism thrives thanks to cruises. So, leave Oranjestad for tranquil beaches (for example, Baby Beach, Rodgers Beach, etc.).

18% of the entire island comprises a national park.

Visiting Arikok National Park almost feels like stepping foot on another planet due to its desert landscape and particular fauna.

Americans don’t need to exchange money before their Aruba trip.

While the Aruban florin (Afl.) is the official national currency on One Happy Island, U.S. dollars are also widely accepted.

Many Arubans speak English!

International travelers won't have problems communicating since most Arubans are multilingual. However, you could always learn some Papiamento phrases!

You won’t have to worry about hurricane season.

Aruba vacations are great because you likely won’t have to worry about hurricane season thanks to its location outside of the hurricane belt.

Wearing sunscreen is 100% necessary.

As with other Caribbean islands, you don't want to forget sunscreen at home! Thanks to its location near the equator, 30 SPF sunscreen is necessary.

When leaving, get to the airport early.

The Aruba airport has pre-clearance for travelers flying to the United States. You’ll pass through customs before boarding your flight.

You can drink the tap water in Aruba!

One of our best Aruba travel tips is to stay hydrated by packing a reusable water bottle.