What should I know before visiting Aruba?

Direct answer

Aruba is a safe, tourist-friendly Caribbean island with warm, dry weather year-round, friendly Dutch-Caribbean culture, and excellent beaches. Plan for simple entry rules, small-island transport, and common-sense safety precautions.

Visa & Entry Requirements

• Most nationalities (including US, Canada, EU) do not need a visa for short tourist stays; check Aruba's official immigration site for specifics.
• You must have a passport valid for the duration of stay (some nationalities require 6 months validity).
• Return/onward ticket and proof of accommodation may be requested.
• There is a departure tax often included in airline tickets; if not, pay at the airport.

Best Time to Visit

• Peak season: mid-December to April — drier, busier, pricier.
• Shoulder season: late April–June and September–November — fewer crowds, better deals.
• Aruba lies outside the main hurricane belt; it’s generally dry and windy year-round.

Safety Tips

• Aruba is one of the safer Caribbean islands, but use common sense: avoid poorly lit areas at night, don’t leave valuables unattended on beaches or in cars.
• Use hotel safes for passports/valuables.
• Be cautious with water activities: follow lifeguard/boat operator instructions; watch for reef and currents.
• Medical care is good in Oranjestad; travel insurance with medical evacuation is recommended.

Local Customs & Etiquette

• Aruba’s official languages are Dutch and Papiamento; English and Spanish are widely spoken.
• Casual dress is fine; beachwear should be limited to the beach/pool areas—cover up when in towns or restaurants.
• Tipping: 10–20% in restaurants is customary if service charge isn’t included.
• Respect local environment and coral reefs; do not remove shells or corals.

Currency & Money

• Currency: Aruban Florin (AWG); US dollar is widely accepted at fixed rate (~1 USD = 1.79 AWG).
• Credit cards are broadly accepted; ATMs available in towns.
• Notify your bank of travel to avoid card holds.

Transportation

• Rental cars are popular for exploring; roads are well-maintained and drive is on the right.
• Taxis are available; agree on fare or ensure meter use.
• Public buses run main routes between Oranjestad and hotel areas; inexpensive but limited.
• Renting a scooter/ATV: check insurance and helmet rules; be cautious on windswept roads.

Must-Know Tips & Local Insights

• Beaches: Eagle Beach and Palm Beach are world-class; Baby Beach in the south is great for calm snorkeling.
• Activities: snorkeling/diving on the Antilla shipwreck, Arikok National Park hikes, sunset sailing.
• Stay hydrated and use reef-safe sunscreen to protect coral.
• Small stores may close midday; major shops remain open.
• If you plan to drink, arrange transport — DUI laws are enforced.
• Carry some cash for small vendors and beach vendors who may not take cards.

Practical Advice

• Pack: light clothing, reef-safe sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, light rain jacket for sudden showers, comfortable shoes for rocky trails.
• Electrical: Dutch standard 220V/127V? (Many hotels provide 110–120V outlets) — bring a universal adapter if needed.
• Connectivity: SIM cards available at airport and shops; many hotels/areas have Wi‑Fi.

Enjoy Aruba’s beaches, friendly people, and relaxed island vibe—plan ahead for peak season, respect local rules and reefs, and you’ll have a great trip.