Aruba FAQs

Looking for tropics, sunny weather, white sands, bright turquoise seas, good food, friendly people and palm trees galore, in other words; pure paradise? Then Aruba's got you covered!

I've been to Aruba 3 times already for several weeks each time, so have explored almost everything on the island.

Still got questions though? I've got answers!

Is Aruba very touristic & American oriented?

Although some areas, mainly around Oranjestad and Palm Beach, can be quite touristic, due to the big influx of American tourists and cruise ships. It still has plenty of more quiet areas and beaches, easy to reach by car.

Or you can choose to stay more in the south or center of the island in the quiet areas of Paradera, Savaneta or San Nicolas. Or even on Eagle Beach, which is so long and wide that it has plenty of quiet spots in between the popular hotels.

The upside of being touristic is that the island has enough to offer, with a big variety of high-and low-rise hotels, private villas, plenty of shops and more than 250 different high-quality eateries. From vegan, vegetarian, Asian, Italian to Mexican, and so much more and I included 30 of the best restaurants, bars & cafés in this guide!

Best time to visit?

The high season, which is also the most busy and more expensive time to visit Aruba is Dec. & Jan. until April. But because the weather is consistently good throughout the year you can visit any month!

How is the climate?

The island is situated outside the Hurricane Belt, and receives the least rainfall in the Southern Caribbean, which almost guarantees sun during your visit any time of year and consistent warm temperatures in between 28-35 degrees Celcius.

There's a bit more chance of rain in between June-Nov., but these are usually short showers and mostly at night or in the morning.

Is Aruba safe?

It's the safest of all Caribbean islands with the lowest crime rate. It has a very low risk of natural disasters and with its relaxing atmosphere and friendly locals, it's called One Happy Island for a reason!

What currency does Aruba use?

The currency on the island is the Aruba Florin. You can exchange US dollars, but it isn’t necessary. Using American money in Aruba is common and widely accepted. You may receive Aruba currency as change.

What language do they speak?

Dutch and the local language of Papiamento are the official languages of Aruba, but most Arubans speak a minimum of 4 languages, including English and Spanish.

Where to stay?

I included 8 unique accommodations in this guide, located around the island, nearly all tried and tested myself.

As the hotel, apartment and villa offering on Aruba is very diverse, it can be hard to choose between a famous high-rise hotel, cute low-rise boutique hotel, the privacy of an apartment or the luxury of a villa with your own pool.

I, however prefer low-rise seaside boutique hotels and private pool villas. Therefore I added 4 of the best and most Instagrammable resorts on Aruba to this guide and 4 very convenient private accommodations, for you to choose from! Each unique and also perfect for a workation, including their own pool.

How to get around on the island?

As the public transportation is less reliable on Aruba I would either recommend renting a car, if you want to explore more, or book some of the many tours available, that include hotel transfers.

And as the island is not so big and the roads are good, it's easy to discover more in just a few days.

Many of the most stunning beaches are situated along the west coast, near each other, therefore it’s convenient to rent a car to see more and stay flexible.

Is there enough to see & do?

• In the west Aruba is lined with about 20 different white beaches, many secluded or with tall palm trees.

• Endless rugged sanddunes in the north form a desert-like area, right next to some of the prettiest turquoise stretches of sea.

• In the east you will find rugged coastlines and fierce shores and secluded beaches. This area houses several natural pools, caves, red, brown and black rocks, and cacti as far as the eye can see, in a national park that covers about 20% of the island.

• And abundant corals, shipwrecks and marine life are to discover in the south and west.

How long do I need to visit Aruba?

With all of the above and Aruba's many colorful houses, murals, natural and historic sites to discover all around the island, of which 40 of the nicest photo-, sightseeing spots & activities & beaches are mentioned in this guide, there is enough to see an do for at least 1 active week or a 2 week holiday, including relaxation:) Or even longer, for a workation!