Aruba after dark is a vibrant mix of beach bars where you can sink your toes in the sand with a cocktail, live music venues echoing with Caribbean rhythms, and high-energy nightclubs that keep the party going until dawn. Forget sleeping – the “One Happy Island” knows how to celebrate when the sun goes down. This guide dives into the best Aruba has to offer for a memorable night out.
Beach Bars: Sunsets, Cocktails, and Sandy Toes
There’s something magical about watching the sunset with a drink in hand, your feet buried in the warm sand. Aruba’s beach bars are pros at creating this experience. Here’s a look at some top choices:
Bugaloe Beach Bar & Grill (Palm Beach): Located on a pier jutting out into the ocean, Bugaloe is the quintessential beach bar. During the day, it’s a casual spot for lunch and swimming. But as the sun dips towards the horizon, it transforms into a lively party hub. Expect daily happy hours (usually from 5-7 PM), live music (often featuring local bands playing reggae and salsa), and a friendly atmosphere. The cocktails are classic Caribbean: think fruity rum punches and icy margaritas. Be sure to try their signature drink, the “Bugaloe Special.” You can easily reach Bugaloe by walking along Palm Beach from most high-rise hotels. Prices are mid-range; expect to pay around $10-15 for a cocktail. Pro Tip: Arrive early to snag a seat with the best sunset view.
Moomba Beach Bar (Palm Beach): Moomba is another Palm Beach favorite, known for its high-energy vibe and late-night parties. They often host themed nights, DJ sets, and bonfires on the beach. It’s a great place to dance the night away under the stars. What sets Moomba apart is its expansive beachfront area, allowing plenty of room to mingle and move. During the day, you can rent beach chairs and umbrellas here, making it a perfect spot for a full day of sun and fun. Happy hour deals are common, and the food menu features casual favorites like burgers, pizza, and seafood. Prices are similar to Bugaloe. Insider tip: Check Moomba’s social media pages to see their event schedule for the week.
The Ritz-Carlton Aruba Beachfront Restaurants (Palm Beach): For a more upscale beach bar experience, head to one of the beachfront restaurants at The Ritz-Carlton. While not strictly “bars,” their outdoor seating areas offer stunning ocean views and a sophisticated ambiance. The Ritz has multiple options — BLT Steak and Casa Nonna come to mind with both having outdoor lounge areas overlooking the water. Expect higher prices here, but the quality of the food, drinks, and service reflects that. This is a great choice for a special occasion or a more romantic evening.
Reflextions Beach Bar (Oranjestad): If you are staying closer to downtown Oranjestad, Reflextions Beach Bar is a great option. It’s located right on Surfside Beach, a calm and shallow water beach perfect for families. Reflextions offers a more laid-back atmosphere than the buzzing Palm Beach bars. They have live music on select nights and a relaxed vibe that’s perfect for enjoying a cold beer and watching the sunset. The food is simple but tasty, with options like sandwiches and salads. It is located directly on Surfside Beach, a short taxi ride from most downtown hotels. Good to know: Surfside Beach is known for its calm waters, making it a family-friendly option even at night.
Charlie Bar (San Nicolaas): For a truly local experience, venture down to San Nicolaas and visit Charlie Bar. This legendary dive bar has been a fixture of Aruba’s southern coast for decades. It’s known for its eclectic decor, walls covered in license plates, business cards, and other memorabilia left by travelers from all over the world. Charlie Bar is a place to drink inexpensive beer, chat with the friendly locals, and soak up the authentic Aruban atmosphere. San Nicolaas is about a 45-minute drive from the hotel area. A taxi will cost approximately $40 each way. Important note: Charlie Bar is a very casual, no-frills establishment. Don’t expect fancy cocktails or gourmet food!
Live Music Venues: Caribbean Rhythms and Energetic Performances
Aruba’s live music scene is rich and diverse, reflecting the island’s cultural heritage. You’ll find everything from traditional Caribbean folk music to modern pop and rock.
Soprano’s Piano Bar (Arawak Garden, Palm Beach): Soprano’s is a popular spot for a lively night out. As the name suggests, the focus here is on piano music. Talented pianists play a range of genres, from classic rock to current hits, and encourage audience participation. It’s a great place to sing along, request your favorite songs, and enjoy a few drinks. Sopranos is located in Arawak Garden, an outdoor entertainment complex just steps from the high-rise hotels. Expect to pay around $10-12 for a cocktail. Be aware: Soprano’s can get very crowded, especially on weekends.
The Mill Resort & Suites Aruba (Palm Beach Area): The Mill Resort & Suites Aruba frequently hosts live music events, making it a good choice if you want something near your hotel. They usually feature local bands playing a mix of Caribbean and international music. Check their website or ask at the front desk for their entertainment schedule. The Mill Resort is located just behind the high-rise hotels, within easy walking distance. Keep in mind: The atmosphere at The Mill is generally more relaxed and family-friendly than at some of the more high-energy bars.
Local Bands at Various Restaurants: Many restaurants throughout Aruba feature live music on select nights. Keep an eye out for signs advertising “Live Music” or ask your hotel concierge for recommendations. Some restaurants to consider are Ricardo’s Restaurant & Beach Bar (Eagle Beach), offering a romantic, relaxed atmosphere with live music often featuring steel pan drums. Local bands also play frequently at restaurants in Oranjestad, particularly along the waterfront. This presents a great way to discover talented local musicians and enjoy a delicious meal at the same time.
Nightclubs: Dancing Under the Stars (or in a Neon-Lit Room)
For those who want to dance the night away, Aruba has a few nightclubs that keep the party going until the early hours of the morning.
Gusto Night Club (Palm Beach): Gusto is a popular nightclub located right in the heart of Palm Beach. It is known for its modern décor, state-of-the-art sound system, and lively atmosphere. The music is typically a mix of Top 40 hits, electronic dance music (EDM), and Latin rhythms. Gusto attracts a mix of tourists and locals and is usually packed on weekends. Expect to pay a cover charge of around $10-20, depending on the night. Drinks are priced similarly to other Palm Beach bars. Safety Note: Gusto is located in a busy area with lots of foot traffic. Keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings.
South Beach Lounge (Palm Beach): South Beach Lounge is a smaller, more intimate nightclub located next to Gusto. It features a stylish interior, comfortable seating areas, and a dance floor. The music is generally a mix of R&B, hip-hop, and reggaeton. South Beach Lounge is a good option if you are looking for a more relaxed and sophisticated clubbing experience. Cover charges and drink prices are comparable to Gusto.
Casino Nightlife: Many of Aruba’s casinos offer live music, bars, and other forms of entertainment in addition to gambling. The casinos at the hotels usually stay open late, providing an alternative to nightclubs. Keep in mind that dressing more formally is always encouraged in most places, though casual is acceptable
Beyond the Bars and Clubs: Unique Nighttime Activities
Aruba’s nightlife is not just about bars and clubs. There are plenty of other ways to enjoy the island after dark.
Sunset Cruises: Several companies offer sunset cruises that take you along the coast of Aruba while you enjoy drinks, snacks, and stunning views of the sunset. Some cruises also include snorkeling stops or dinner on board. This is a romantic and relaxing way to experience Aruba’s beauty.
Stargazing: With its clear skies and minimal light pollution, Aruba is a great place for stargazing. Find a quiet spot on the beach away from the hotel area and look up. You might even be able to spot the Milky Way. Consider bringing a blanket and a flashlight.
Bon Bini Festival (Oranjestad): Held every Tuesday evening in Fort Zoutman, the Bon Bini Festival is a celebration of Aruban culture. You’ll see traditional music, dance, and costumes, as well as sample local food and drinks. It’s a fun and educational way to learn about Aruba’s history and traditions. Tickets can be purchased at the door and are typically around $10. Cultural note: “Bon Bini” means “Welcome” in Papiamento, the local language of Aruba.
Movie Theaters and Shopping: Modern movie theatre complexes can be found in the hotel area (Palm Beach), while shopping centers provide a pleasant way to leisurely walk about if you just need to destress.
Essential Tips for Aruba Nightlife
Transportation: Taxis are readily available in Aruba, but they can be expensive, especially for longer distances. Consider renting a car if you plan to explore the island extensively. Alternatively, the Arubus public bus system is reliable and affordable, but it doesn’t run very late at night. Ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are not widely available. Plan Ahead: Decide how you will get around before you start drinking.
Safety: Aruba is generally a safe island, but it’s always a good idea to take precautions. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas at night. Don’t leave your drinks unattended. Keep your valuables in a safe place. Be Safe – Don’t Drink and Drive.
Dress Code: The dress code in Aruba is generally casual, but some nightclubs and upscale restaurants may require more formal attire. When in doubt, err on the side of being slightly overdressed. Beach bars are casual, but footwear is generally expected.
Currency: The Aruban Florin (AWG) is the local currency, but US dollars are widely accepted. Credit cards are also accepted at most establishments.
Happy Hour: Most bars and restaurants offer happy hour specials, typically between 5 PM and 7 PM. This is a great way to save money on drinks. Don’t be afraid to ask what the Happy Hour special is.
Pace Yourself: Aruba’s tropical climate can make the effects of alcohol more potent. Drink plenty of water and pace yourself to avoid getting dehydrated or overly intoxicated. Remember to drink and eat; do not only drink.
FAQ Section
What is the legal drinking age in Aruba?
The legal drinking age in Aruba and the legal gambling age is 18 years old. Be prepared to show ID if you look young.
Is it safe to walk around at night in Aruba?
Aruba is generally a safe island, but it’s always a good idea to take precautions. Stick to well-lit and populated areas, and avoid walking alone in unfamiliar places. Palm Beach and Oranjestad are generally considered safe areas to walk around at night.
What time do bars and clubs typically close in Aruba?
Most bars and clubs in Aruba stay open until 2 AM or 3 AM, especially on weekends. Some casinos stay open even later. Most places, will close around those hours. Check the specific bar or restaurant for specifics.
Are there any all-inclusive options for nightlife in Aruba?
While some all-inclusive resorts include drinks at their bars and restaurants, true all-inclusive nightlife experiences are rare. Most bars and clubs operate independently and require separate payment. You also may want to venture out of the resort!.
What is the average cost of a cocktail in Aruba?
The average cost of a cocktail in Aruba is around $10-15 USD, depending on the location and the type of drink. Expect to pay more at upscale bars and restaurants.
References
Aruba Tourism Authority
Ready to experience Aruba’s vibrant nightlife?
Don’t just dream about those sunset cocktails and Caribbean beats – start planning your trip today! Book your flights, reserve your hotel, and make a list of the beach bars and live music venues you want to explore. Aruba’s nightlife is waiting for you! What are you waiting for? Start planning today!
