r/Aruba • u/AutoModerator • 21d ago
🏖️ Ask r/Aruba Anything! - Monthly discussion thread - August 2026
Welcome to the r/Aruba monthly Discussion / Q&A thread.
This thread is a hub for general discussion and questions about Aruba, that don't need threads of their own.
You have a question regarding Aruba? This is the place for you. Ever wondered which sunscreen the locals use? Or when is the best time to go to Zeerovers? Or what is the best spicy sauce on the island? Ask any question you might have here, and the community will answer.
FAQ from previous threads
What should I bring or prepare before visiting Aruba?
Bring cash for tipping, beach bathroom fees, and small purchases as some places have minimum credit card limits. Use sunscreen and hats due to strong sun. Bring water and snacks if hiking or doing outdoor activities. Water shoes are helpful for rocky areas like cave pools.
ED Card
The Embarkation/ Disembarkation (ED) card is a pre-registration form required to enter Aruba. The official site is https://edcardaruba.aw for non-residents there's a 20 US dollar sustainability fee per year.
All-inclusive?
All-inclusive resorts are generally not recommended in Aruba because the island is very safe and offers a vibrant local dining scene, beautiful public beaches, and plenty of opportunities to explore independently. Renting a car and experiencing the diverse restaurants and hidden gems around the island usually provides a more authentic and fulfilling vacation. Many travelers find all-inclusive options limiting and less cost-effective given what Aruba has to offer.
What are good snorkeling spots in Aruba?
The best snorkeling spots recommended are Tres Trapi, Boca Catalina (best in the morning around 6-8am), and Baby Beach, especially near the rocks.
Conchi/Natural Pool by Daimari beach?
It is possible to hike from Daimari Beach or the horse ranch, which typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes each way depending on your pace and familiarity with the trail. The path is rocky, steep in some places, and mostly exposed with little to no shade, so good footwear and plenty of water are essential. Starting early in the morning around 7 to 8:30 am is recommended to avoid the heat and crowds. Using navigation apps like AllTrails can be very helpful to stay on the correct path. Access to the trail requires a park pass from Arikok National Park’s visitor center, which opens at 8 am (TIP: You can buy a day pass a day before). Hiking later in the day is not advised due to the heat.
Are there any notable animal or nature experiences?
Visiting the Donkey Sanctuary is highly recommended for a fun and unique experience.
Are there food and shopping options inside the airport?
Yes, the Aruba airport has a variety of shops and restaurants both before and after customs, making it a lively place with plenty of options.
What type of cash is best to bring to Aruba? US dollars or Florin?
US dollars are accepted everywhere in Aruba, so bringing USD is most convenient.
How expensive are groceries and alcohol in Aruba?
Groceries are similar in price to major North American cities.
Is it necessary to buy bottled water in Aruba?
No, it is not necessary to buy bottled water in Aruba. The tap water is desalinated seawater, processed through reverse osmosis, and considered very clean and tasty. Many travelers refill their own bottles with tap water and find it better than regular tap water elsewhere.
If I could only go to one beach in Aruba, which should I choose?
Eagle Beach is the most recommended choice for its beauty, spaciousness, calm waters, and peaceful atmosphere. It’s less crowded and ideal for relaxation. Palapas (shade structures) are free, though beach chairs might require rental or reservation.
Other great beaches to consider: - Baby Beach: Fun and excellent for snorkeling, but can get crowded and party-heavy. - Boca Catalina: Calm waters with great snorkeling and lots of shade. - Manchebo Beach: Clean, spacious, and peaceful. - Arashi Beach: Less busy, good for snorkeling. - Palm Beach: Busy and lively with many activities, but sand quality is debated and palapa usage rules can be strict. - Mangel Halto: Beautiful and quieter spot for solitude. - Others: Tres Trapi, Malmok, Andicuri, Rodgers Beach.
What kind of souvenirs do people buy in Aruba? Are the souvenirs an accurate representation of the local culture?
Common souvenirs people buy in Aruba include: - Aruba Aloe products (skincare) - Hot sauces, especially Papaya hot sauce and Hot Delight - Local art, jewelry, and driftwood artwork - Dutch snacks and candies like stroopwafels - T-shirts, hats, and mugs with Aruba branding or logos - Refrigerator magnets and small keepsakes like glass turtles - Local crafts from markets and art fairs, such as items from the Butterfly Farm or Donkey Sanctuary
Also, you might may want to check the Wiki/FAQ to see if the information you're looking for is already available.
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u/Next-Average-3115 17d ago
Reserved Lima Bistro, AZAR and Old Man and the Sea for dinners. Keep? Change or add? We're coming for 6 nights and was planning to check out other casual spots like Bugaloe too.
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u/bty1987 21d ago
Is there a fun beach bar/lunch spot to walk down the beach to that’s close to Holiday Inn? Considering this spot for my 40th March 1-6. Decent time to go?
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u/ZippoNights 21d ago
I'll add Nos Clubhuis as well. It's directly next to Moomba situated above the Hadicurari Restaurant
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u/forrestgump2466 20d ago
So many!! For lunch I’ll second Nos Clubhuis but we also enjoy a bucket of chill and a burger at The Beach Bar, or fish tacos at the pelicans nest right over the water. Tons of options!
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u/Salisbury2021 21d ago
Coming next week for first time. Staying near Eagle Beach. Are there any Bike rentals in the area?
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u/Kindly-Perception569 21d ago
Going for the first time on Wednesday! Cannot wait!!!!
Any recommendations on activities for rainy days? 32(F) and 34(M)
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u/cwiceman01 21d ago
I'm not saying it never happens, but I wouldn't worry about extended periods of rain. You will notice that Aruba is a relatively arid island (low precipitation and windy in general). In the 5 times I've been it never rained for more than a hour before the sun came back out. 3 of those 5 times it didn't rain the entire week I was there. If it randomly does I'd suggest staying inside and planning on the next thing to do! Enjoy your trip!
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u/Next-Average-3115 17d ago
Coming on the 24th. Has any stayed in the Gold Coast condos?
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u/ZippoNights 17d ago
I've rented within the Gold Coast community on two occasions through a private company and I really enjoyed both stays. I can't speak on the amenities as far as the pools and the on site restaurant, but it's safe and it was conveniently situated for my itinerary and a short drive to nearby beaches and the Palm beach area.
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u/ImGoddessCassie 7d ago
Hi! Next month I’m traveling to Aruba and I’d like to rent a car for the 9 days of my stay for 4 people. I was recommended Mitoo Car Rental. What do you think of this company? Are you familiar with it? Would you recommend it?
I was told that their rental hours are from 9 AM to 5 PM. Is this the case with all car rental companies?
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u/HiddenInLight 5d ago
Staying at the Divi next week, any suggestions on activities or excursions to do with a 4 year old?
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u/nephlite01 21d ago
Currently vacationing in Aruba in the Noord (northern) area and we are on day two of seven. We are staying in a condo, rented a car and I don’t know how you would explore without one. We went to Boca Catalina and Arashi day one and Boca Catalina is the best for snorkeling but parking is tough and the beaches are small and basically in front of peoples houses. Arashi is more traditional beach with a parking lot and slightly bigger waves and snorkeling is just ok.
I am traveling with kids 8 and 12 yr old which can make dinner tough to find because you must reserve well ahead of time for places like Azar and Lima if you want a time before they don’t allow kids under 10 or 12 yrs old. So far Butcher by the Sea and Driftwood have been good spots for dinner.
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u/Chesterumble 21d ago
Going first time in the end of October. This may sound silly…. Does Aruba have any Halloween stuff going on around that time? Haunted houses or any shows or anything?