10 Things to Know Before Going to Aruba

By: Leah Shoup

You’ll most likely want to rent a car.

One of our best Aruba travel tips is to rent a car! There are options to use public transport, but this way, you’re free to explore the island at your own speed.

You can skip the resort.

Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort, Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort, and Aruba Marriott Resort are great! However, you can also find rentals along Eagle Beach & Palm 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 unique marine life.

Americans can use their money on their Aruba trip.

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

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, it's important to double-check that 30 SPF sunscreen is on your packing list if you plan to spend time in the water.

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.