Explore Aruba: Your Complete Guide to the One Happy Island

Aruba enjoys warm, sunny weather year-round, but some months are better for different experiences:

• December–April (Peak Season): Best for perfect beach weather, festivals, and nightlife.
• May–August (Shoulder Season): Ideal for fewer crowds and great hotel deals.
• September–November (Low Season): Great for budget travelers, but expect higher humidity.

• Eagle Beach – Consistently ranked one of the best beaches in the world, famous for soft white sand and Divi Divi trees.
• Palm Beach – A bustling beachfront lined with resorts, restaurants, and water sports.
• Arikok National Park – A stunning desert landscape with caves, cacti, and hiking trails.
• Natural Pool (“Conchi”) – A secluded rock pool perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
• California Lighthouse – A scenic spot offering panoramic views of the island.
• Oranjestad – Aruba’s colorful capital filled with Dutch colonial architecture, shopping, and dining.
• Baby Beach – A calm, shallow beach ideal for snorkeling and families.
• De Palm Island – A private island featuring snorkeling, flamingos, and all-inclusive fun.
• Alto Vista Chapel – A historic hilltop chapel with breathtaking views.
• Butterfly Farm – A tropical sanctuary with exotic butterflies and lush gardens.

• Keshi Yena – A traditional Aruban dish of stuffed cheese with spiced meat and raisins.
• Pastechi – A savory pastry filled with cheese, meat, or seafood.
• Funchi & Pan Bati – Cornmeal-based side dishes similar to polenta and pancakes.
• Aruban Seafood – Try fresh red snapper, grouper, and lobster.
• Dutch Pancakes – Large, thin pancakes served with sweet or savory toppings.
• Ayaca – A holiday-season tamale wrapped in banana leaves.
• Coconut Shrimp – A tropical take on fried shrimp, often served with mango dipping sauce.
• Caribbean Roti – A spiced curry dish influenced by Indian flavors.
• Aruba Ariba Cocktail – The island’s signature tropical drink made with rum, Coecoei liquor, and fruit juices.

• Flights: Arrive at Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA).
• Car Rentals: Recommended for exploring beyond the resort areas and visiting Arikok National Park.
• Taxis: Widely available, but fares are fixed by the government—no meters.
• Public Buses (Arubus): An affordable option connecting major beaches and tourist areas.
• Bikes & Scooters: Great for exploring Oranjestad and Palm Beach.
• ATV & Jeep Rentals: Ideal for adventuring through the rugged desert terrain.

• For U.S. travelers: No visa required for stays up to 90 days, but a valid passport is necessary.
• For international travelers: Check Aruba’s visa requirements based on your nationality.
• ED-Card: All visitors must complete an Embarkation/Disembarkation (ED) card online before arrival.

• Currency: Aruban Florin (AWG), but U.S. dollars (USD) are widely accepted.
• Most places accept credit cards, but some small vendors prefer cash.
• ATMs dispense both florins and U.S. dollars.
• Exchange money at banks or currency exchange offices for the best rates.

• Papiamento and Dutch are the official languages.
• English and Spanish are widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.
• Most signs, menus, and information are available in English.

• Arubans are warm and friendly—greet people with a smile and a simple “Bon Bini” (Welcome).
• Tipping is customary (10-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars).
• Beachwear is fine on the beach but not in restaurants or shops.
• Respect the environment—Aruba has strict sustainability and conservation laws.
• Don’t take coral, seashells, or sand—it’s illegal to remove them from the island.

• Restaurants: 10–20% tip is standard, but some places include a service charge.
• Bars: $1–2 per drink or 10–15% of the total bill.
• Hotels: $2–5 per bag for bellhops, $2–5 per night for housekeeping.
• Taxis: Tipping is appreciated but not required.
• Tour Guides & Excursions: $10–20 per person for great service.

• For peak travel season (December–April): Book 6–12 months in advance for hotels and flights.
• For off-season travel (May–November): Booking a few weeks ahead is usually fine.
• For sunset cruises and De Palm Island: Book at least a few days ahead.

• No COVID-19 test is required for entry, but check for updates before traveling.
• Sunscreen with oxybenzone is banned—bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect Aruba’s marine life.
• Some remote areas require a 4×4 vehicle—plan accordingly if exploring Arikok National Park.

Contact us at 281-229-0862 or admin@pointmetoparadise.com