Aruba

With its signature sapphire seas, sugary sand, luxe boutiques and restaurants galore, Aruba is a natural playground for vacationers. Pair off-road adventures with the island’s excellent beaches and watersports for nonstop fun in the sun.

All Stories

QUICK GUIDE

WHEN TO GO

Aruba’s weather is generally wonderful, though Dec. – April marks high season, as evidenced by a rise in prices and crowds. If you’re looking for quiet and don’t mind a chance of rain (the island is south of the hurricane belt, and direct hits are rare), prices and crowds drop Sept. – Nov.

NEED TO KNOW

Visas: Americans, Canadians, Australians, New Zealanders, and European Union (EU) nationals can stay up to one month without a visa. U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport (with at least 6 months before it expires) to enter Aruba. EU citizens need a passport and EU Travel Card. A valid passport is required of all other nationalities. Be prepared to show an onward or return ticket or proof of sufficient funds for your stay.
Money: The local currency is the Aruban florin, though the American dollar is also widely accepted. ATMs are widely available and dispense both U.S. dollars and Aruban florins. Prices are often shown in both florins and U.S. dollars.
Travel Health: Check with the Aruba Tourism Authority for the latest health safety information, including travel protocols and requirements like negative COVID-19 tests, quarantines, mask mandates and more in connection with COVID-19. Before traveling, research and prepare for what to do if you get sick while away.

GETTING AROUND

Getting Here: Aruba is served by Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA), while cruise ships arrive at the Aruba Ports Authority.
Getting Around: Many visitors are content staying at their resort, but to reach further afield on the island, car rentals are convenient and offer freedom to explore. Taxis (with some fares set for fixed distances) are also available, and many resorts offer shuttle services. 

LOCAL INTEL

Local Lingo:  Aruba’s official languages are Papiamento and Dutch, but most locals also speak English and Spanish. Learn a few phrases in the local language. Bon dia, bon tardi, bon nochi: Good morning, good afternoon, good evening, respectively. Danki: Thank you. Aruba ta bunita: Aruba is beautiful.
Must-Have Apps: Aruba Travel GuideAruba Health App 
Insider Tips: Eat like an Aruban local and try pastechi. These fried pies, or empanadas, have a wide variety of fillings, such as cheese, ham, chicken and even chop suey and are popular for breakfast and as snacks.