Crafting Paradise: Signature Drinks You Must Try In Aruba

Aruba isn’t just about stunning beaches and turquoise waters; it’s a culinary adventure waiting to be explored, and that adventure extends beyond the incredible food scene to the vibrant and unique cocktail culture. Forget the usual beachside cocktails – Aruba boasts signature drinks that are a true reflection of the island’s spirit, blending local flavors with a touch of Caribbean flair. Preparing your palate for the delicious adventure with our guide to must-try Aruban signature drinks.

The Aruba Ariba: A Sunset in a Glass

Let’s start with the undisputed queen of Aruban cocktails: the Aruba Ariba. This isn’t just a drink; it’s an experience. Imagine yourself settling into a beachside bar as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in fiery hues. The sweet cocktail, with its various fruit juices, combined with a splash of locally made Coecoei, tastes like sunshine in a glass. The exact recipe is a closely guarded secret, varying slightly from bar to bar, but the core ingredients almost always include vodka, rum, crème de banana, and a medley of fruit juices like orange, pineapple, and cranberry. The final touch? A splash of Grand Marnier and usually a decorative piece of fruit.

Finding Your Perfect Ariba: Every bar and restaurant on the island puts their own unique spin on this classic. For a reliably delicious version, head to a beachfront bar at sunset. Simply ask for “the house Aruba Ariba.” Many resorts also offer exclusive versions, often with premium ingredients. For instance, sometimes hotels offer a “premium” version made with top-shelf liquors, with a price ranging from $12 to $18.

Coecoei Cocktails: Unlocking Aruban Heritage

Coecoei is a truly unique Aruban liqueur to produce. This unique beverage is made from agave sap, rum, and cane sugar, and it plays a central role in several iconicAruban drinks. The intense red color sets it apart, and its slightly bitter, slightly sweet, and almost medicinal flavor adds a level of local depth to any cocktail. Coecoei is best enjoyed in a complex, layered cocktail where its unique characteristics can shine. Due to its unique preparation procedure, there is only one distillery left that produces the drink. The distillery is named “The Coecoei Rum Shop“, it is located near the Hooiberg (Google Maps location). They offer tours and, of course, tastings! Expect to pay around $20-$30 for a bottle.

Here are two essential Coecoei cocktails to look for:

• Cadushi Liqueur Cocktail: As part of the Balashi Brewery tour, the Cadushi cactus liquor is used. The Cadushi itself has a light and sweet taste, the cocktail version is often paired with local rum, citrus juice, agave, and triple sec to have a complex drink.
• Aruban Sunset: Blending the fruit Coecoei flavor with the island’s signature rum and a medley of tropical juices, this cocktail is a refreshing and visually stunning masterpiece. Look for it at beachfront bars known for their cocktails like Bugaloe Beach Bar & Grill.

Balashi Cocktails: Tasting Aruba’s National Beer

Balashi is more than just beer in Aruba; it’s a cultural symbol. Brewed with desalinated Aruban water, it is crisp, refreshing, and perfectly suited to the tropical climate. Balashi is used to create interesting drinks such as:

• Balashi Radler: The Radler typically involves mixing Balashi beer with lemon or grapefruit juice, creating a drink that are lower in alcohol and high in refreshment. It’s a perfect daytime drink.
• Michelada Balashi: A spicy and savory twist on the classic Michelada, using Balashi beer as the base. Lime juice, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and spices rim the glass, and it is sometimes served with a tamarind stick. It’s an interesting drink for the adventurous drinker.

Where to Find Them: Balashi is available everywhere, but for cocktail creations, check out Pelican Pier Bar and Hadicurari Restaurant. These places specialize in local flavors, so they have the skills to make these drinks.

Rum Punch: Caribbean Classic, Aruban Style

Rum punch is widespread throughout the Caribbean, but each island puts its spin on this classic cocktail. In Aruba, it’s often made with a blend of local dark rum, fresh fruit juices (pineapple, orange, guava), grenadine, and a hint of nutmeg. Every bartender will have their own recipe, making it worth trying at different locations to find your favorite.

Local Rum Recommendations: While there are many Caribbean rums, ask if they use local brands for a truly Aruban experience. Local rums include:

• Palmera Rum: Produced in Aruba’s oldest distillery, this rum is a taste of Aruban heritage.
• Ron Barcelo: Although not exclusively Aruban (it originates from the Dominican Republic), it’s widely available and frequently used in cocktails on the island.

Finding the Best Punch: Many restaurants offer a “house rum punch,” so start there. Local spots, away from the main tourist drag, often have the most authentic, potent versions. Ask your server for recommendations.

Happy Hour Hopping: Maximizing Your Cocktail Adventure

One of the best ways to experience Aruban cocktails is by taking advantage of the island’s numerous happy hours. Many bars offer two-for-one deals or discounted drinks during specific hours, allowing you to try a wider variety without breaking the bank. Many happy hours are between 5 PM until 7 PM, but some can be as early as 3 PM giving you all the more time to try drinks.

Happy Hour Hotspots:

• Bugaloe Beach Bar & Grill: Over-the-water bar with happy hour specials and live music, perfect for enjoying an Aruba Ariba at sunset.
• Moomba Beach Bar: Known for its lively atmosphere and extensive cocktail menu, Moomba offers great happy hour deals.
• Pelican Pier Bar: Located on a pier with stunning ocean views, this bar boasts great happy hour deals on Balashi cocktails and rum punches.

Beyond the Beach: Exploring Cocktail Culture Away From the Tourist Trail

While the beach bars are a must-visit, don’t hesitate to explore the cocktail scene beyond the main tourist areas. Venture into Oranjestad, Aruba’s capital, or explore smaller towns for hidden gems offering unique and authentic Aruban experiences.

Oranjestad Gems:

• The Wine Room: For a more sophisticated cocktail experience, check out The Wine Room. They have some unique cocktail creations using higher-quality liquors, and of course, wine.
• Local Store Aruba: Offers a wide variety of local wines, beers, and liquors – you can buy there to take back home with after you have tried some local drinks.

Navigating the Cocktail Menu: Decoding Local Terms And Customization

Aruban cocktail menus often feature local terms and ingredients you might not be familiar with. Here’s a quick guide:

• “Awa di Coco”: Coconut water.
• “Ponche Crema”: A thick, creamy liqueur similar to eggnog, often enjoyed during the holidays but available year-round in some places.
• “Limonchi”: Aruban lime liqueur.

Don’t be afraid to ask your bartender about the ingredients or to customize your drink. They’re usually happy to accommodate requests and create something tailored to your taste. For example, if you are not a big fan of orange juice, you can ask for fresh pineapple instead.

Mocktails: Enjoying Aruban Flavors Alcohol-Free

If you’re not drinking alcohol, you can still savor the flavors of Aruba with delicious mocktails. Most bars can create non-alcoholic versions of their signature cocktails, simply ask for a “virgin” version.

Must-Try Mocktails:

• Virgin Aruba Ariba: All the fruity goodness of the original, without the alcohol.
• Coconut Cooler: Blended coconut water, pineapple juice, and a splash of grenadine.
• Iced Tea with local flavors: With so much fresh fruit, you can ask the bar for a freshly prepared Iced Tea with a local twist.

The Sweet Ending: Dessert Cocktails in Aruba

Don’t underestimate the power of a dessert cocktail to end your dining experience on a high note. Many Aruban restaurants offer indulgent cocktails featuring coffee, chocolate, and local liqueurs.

Here are some examples to look for:

• Coffee cocktails with Ponche Crema: The islanders sometimes mix Ponche Crema into coffee, with the richness of the Ponche beautifully complementing the strong coffee.
• Chocolate Martini with Coecoei: The bittersweet flavor of Coecoei adds depth to a classic chocolate martini.
• Aruban Coffee: Local coffee with a splash of local rum!

Responsible Drinking: Staying Safe and Enjoying Your Trip

While indulging in Aruban cocktails is part of the vacation experience, it’s essential to drink responsibly. Here are some tips:

• Pace yourself: Drink water between cocktails to stay hydrated.
• Eat: Don’t drink on an empty stomach. Enjoy the island’s delicious cuisine alongside your cocktails.
• Plan your transportation: Arrange for a taxi or designated driver if you plan to drink.
• Know your limits: Be aware of your alcohol tolerance and drink accordingly.

Budgeting for Aruban Cocktails: What to Expect

Cocktail prices in Aruba can vary depending on the location and ingredients. At a basic beachfront bar, happy hour cocktails prices are about 7$, whereas the non-happy hour price may fall around $10. At the more luxurious resorts, some places can charge up to $18 or higher per cocktail.

Here’s a general estimate:

• Local beer (Balashi): $4-$6
• Basic cocktail (rum and coke, etc.): $8-$12
• Signature cocktail (Aruba Ariba, etc.): $10-$15
• High-end cocktail at a resort: $15-$20+

Creating Your Own Aruban Cocktail Experience: A DIY Approach

Once you’ve sampled the best of Aruba’s cocktails, you might be inspired to create your own at your rental for example. Stocking up on local ingredients is key.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Local Rum: Palmera, Ron Barcelo.
• Coecoei: Purchased from The Coecoei Rum Shop.
• Fresh Fruit Juices: Orange, Pineapple, Cranberry, Guava.
• Liqueurs: Crème de Banana, Grand Marnier.

You’ll find the mixers in local supermarkets like Ling & Sons IGA Super Center or Super Food Plaza. These stores typically carry a range of local and international ingredients. Prices in these supermarkets are pretty similar to normal supermarkets back in the US.

If you do rent a place with a blender, you can use some fresh fruit for some fun additions.

FAQ Section

What is the most popular drink in Aruba?

Certainly, it’s the Aruba Ariba. You will find slight differences based on the Bar, but it tends to be the most ordered drink on the island.

Is it okay to drink tap water in Aruba?

Yes! Aruba has one of the world’s best water desalinization plants. It is perfectly safe, and in fact, delicious!

What is Coecoei, and where can I try it?

Coecoei is a unique Aruban liqueur made from agave sap, rum, and cane sugar. It is a key ingredient in the Aruba Ariba and other local cocktails, and you can try it at most bars and restaurants around the island. Buying a bottle can only be done at “The Coecoei Rum Shop“.

Are there any local beers other than Balashi that I should try?

While Balashi is the most popular, look out for Chill, Balashi’s sister beer. It’s slightly lighter and also refreshing.

Are there any cocktail-making classes in Aruba?

Yes! Some island hotels and tour companies offer interactive cocktail-making classes that let you learn how to mix some local-inspired drinks. Check in local tourism guides, or ask your hotel.

What’s the tipping culture in Aruba’s bars and restaurants?

Tipping is customary in Aruba. Many restaurants already include a service charge (usually 15-20%) on the bill, so check before you add an additional tip. If a service charge is not included, a 15-20% tip is appreciated for good service.

References List

• Aruba Tourism Authority.
• The Coecoei Rum Shop.

Ready to embark on your Aruban cocktail adventure? Book a trip to Aruba to start sampling the island’s signature drinks. Every sip that you take will be a memory you can hold onto forerver! Grab a drink, and relax in paradise.