Aruba can be a surprisingly affordable island, even with its reputation for luxury. The key is knowing where to look, what to do, and how to save. This guide provides insider tips on experiencing the best of Aruba without emptying your wallet, focusing on budget-friendly spots, activities, and ways to make your money stretch further.
Getting Around Aruba on the Cheap
Forget expensive taxi rides! Aruba has a fantastic public bus system called Arubus. For just a few dollars, you can access almost the entire island. A day pass is a fantastic investment at around $10, allowing unlimited rides. Pick up a bus schedule at the central bus station in Oranjestad – it’s your bible for navigating Aruba affordably. Many hotels are within walking distance of bus stops, making it easy to explore without renting a car. For instance, if you’re staying near Palm Beach, the bus can whisk you away to Eagle Beach or downtown Oranjestad in minutes. Another great alternative is renting a car (prices vary depending on the car vendor), but to get the cheap prices, plan well in advance. When you compare car costs, you are often cheaper than any other form of transit.
Budget-Friendly Beaches: Sun, Sand, and Savings
Aruba’s beaches are free! Yes, you read that right. The island’s stunning coastline is accessible to everyone. While some beachfront hotels charge for chairs and umbrellas, many areas are open for you to bring your own towel and enjoy the sun. Some of the best free beaches to check out are:
- Eagle Beach: Often ranked among the world’s best beaches, Eagle Beach boasts soft white sand and crystal-clear turquoise water. Find a spot away from the hotel zones to avoid chair rental fees. Pack a cooler with drinks and snacks, and you’re set for the day.
- Arashi Beach: Located in the northern part of Aruba, Arashi Beach is known for its calm waters and excellent snorkeling. It’s a popular spot for locals, which means it’s less crowded and more budget-friendly.
- Baby Beach: Perfect for families with young children, Baby Beach has shallow, calm waters that are ideal for wading and swimming. There’s a restaurant and bar on site, but you can save money by bringing your own food and drinks.
Pro Tip: Many supermarkets sell beach chairs and umbrellas for a fraction of the cost of renting them daily. This is a worthwhile investment if you plan on spending a lot of time on the beach. Also, look for happy hour deals at beach bars for discounted drinks.
Free Activities: Exploring Aruba’s Natural Beauty
Aruba offers many free activities beyond lounging on the beach. Here are a few ideas:
- Arikok National Park: While there’s a small entrance fee (around $11 per person) to access certain areas by car, you can hike into many parts of the park for free. Explore the rugged landscape, discover hidden caves, and keep an eye out for local wildlife like lizards and birds. Remember to bring plenty of water and wear sturdy shoes.
- California Lighthouse: Located on the northern tip of the island, the California Lighthouse offers stunning panoramic views of the coastline. While you can pay to climb to the top, simply walking around the base and enjoying the scenery is a free and rewarding experience.
- Hooiberg (Haystack Mountain): Challenge yourself by climbing the 561 steps to the top of Hooiberg. The climb is strenuous, but the 360-degree views of the island are well worth the effort. It’s best to climb early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat. Important Tip! Bring water and wear comfortable shoes.
- San Nicolas Street Art: Head to San Nicolas, Aruba’s second-largest city, and wander through the streets admiring the vibrant street art. Many murals depict local culture and history, making it a great way to learn about the island. This is a free and fun activity for all ages. Look into a free walking tour if you’re looking to learn more about the cultural hotspots and local’s must-visit spots.
Affordable Eats: Where to Find Budget-Friendly Food
Eating out in Aruba can be expensive, but there are ways to enjoy delicious meals without breaking the bank:
- Local Restaurants (Comedores): Venture away from the tourist areas and seek out local restaurants, often called “comedores.” These hidden gems offer authentic Aruban cuisine at affordable prices. Dishes like keshi yena (stuffed cheese) and stews are hearty and flavorful.
- Supermarkets: Stock up on groceries at local supermarkets like Ling & Sons or Super Food Plaza. Buying breakfast items, snacks, and drinks will save you a significant amount of money compared to eating out for every meal. You can often find pre-made sandwiches, salads, and other grab-and-go items.
- Food Trucks: Food trucks are becoming increasingly popular in Aruba, offering a variety of cuisines at reasonable prices. You can find everything from burgers and fries to seafood and local specialties. Check out the food trucks clustered around Palm Beach and Eagle Beach for some delicious and affordable eats.
- Happy Hour Deals: Take advantage of happy hour deals at bars and restaurants. Many establishments offer discounted drinks and appetizers during specific hours, allowing you to enjoy a taste of Aruba’s nightlife without blowing your budget.
Example: Instead of eating breakfast at your hotel for $25 per person, buy cereal, milk, and fruit at Super Food Plaza for around $15 total. This will save you a significant amount of money over the course of your trip.
Snorkeling and Diving: Exploring Underwater Wonders on a Dime
Aruba’s underwater world is a must-see, but organized tours can be pricey. Here’s how to explore the marine life on a budget:
- Rent Snorkel Gear: Rent snorkel gear from a local shop for a fraction of the cost of booking a snorkeling tour. Many hotels offer rentals, or you can find independent shops near the beaches.
- Snorkel from the Shore: Several beaches in Aruba offer excellent snorkeling right off the shore. Some of the best spots include Mangel Halto, Arashi Beach, and Boca Catalina. The calm waters and abundant marine life make these locations ideal for snorkeling on your own.
- Budget-Friendly Dive Operators: If you’re a certified diver, look for smaller, locally owned dive operators that offer lower prices than the larger companies. Check online reviews and compare prices before booking.
- Free Diving (Carefully!): Experienced freedivers can explore the shallow reefs off Arashi Beach and Mangel Halto. Important note that there should NEVER be solo diving due to risk of drowning.
Important Safety Tip: Always snorkel with a buddy and be aware of your surroundings. Check the weather conditions and currents before entering the water, and wear a life jacket if you’re not a strong swimmer. For scuba diving, there are certification requirements.
Affordable Accommodations: Finding Budget-Friendly Places to Stay
Accommodation is often the biggest expense when traveling. Here’s how to find budget-friendly options in Aruba:
- Apartment Rentals: Consider renting an apartment or condo through Airbnb or VRBO. This can be a more affordable option than staying in a hotel, especially if you’re traveling with a family or group. You’ll also have access to a kitchen, which will allow you to save money on meals.
- Guesthouses and Boutique Hotels: Look for guesthouses and boutique hotels located away from the main tourist areas. These smaller establishments often offer lower prices and a more authentic Aruban experience.
- Travel During the Off-Season: Travel to Aruba during the off-season (typically May, June, September, and October) to take advantage of lower prices on flights and accommodations. The weather is still beautiful, and the crowds are smaller.
- Hostels: Although not as common as in other destinations, Aruba does have a few hostels that offer dorm-style accommodation at very affordable prices. This is a great option for solo travelers or budget-conscious backpackers.
Example: A hotel room near Palm Beach might cost $200-$300 per night, while an apartment rental a few blocks away could cost $80-$120 per night. This can save you hundreds of dollars over the course of your trip. Research ahead of time, and don’t be afraid to book in advance for the best selection, or search for last-minute deals if dates are flexible.
Shopping Smart: Finding Affordable Souvenirs
Want to bring home a piece of Aruba without spending a fortune? Here’s how to shop smart:
- Local Markets: Visit the local markets in Oranjestad and San Nicolas to find unique and affordable souvenirs. You’ll find handmade crafts, jewelry, and other local products at much lower prices than in the tourist shops.
- Supermarkets: Supermarkets are a great place to buy local food products like Aruba Aloe products, hot sauces, and spices. These items make great souvenirs and are often cheaper than buying them in souvenir shops.
- Duty-Free Shopping: Take advantage of Aruba’s duty-free shopping status to purchase items like alcohol, tobacco, and perfumes at lower prices. However, be sure to check your home country’s customs regulations before buying large quantities.
- Negotiate Prices: Don’t be afraid to negotiate prices at the local markets. Vendors are often willing to lower the price, especially if you’re buying multiple items.
What to avoid? Purchasing souvenirs from tourist shops along the beach or in hotel lobbies can be extremely expensive. Opt for the local markets and supermarkets to find better deals.
Free Entertainment: Experiencing Aruban Culture Without Spending Money
Aruba offers plenty of free entertainment options that allow you to experience the island’s culture without spending money:
- Bon Bini Festival: Held every Tuesday evening at Fort Zoutman in Oranjestad, the Bon Bini Festival showcases Aruban music, dance, and cuisine. While there’s a small entrance fee, it’s worth it for the cultural experience.
- Local Music: Many bars and restaurants offer live music performances, often featuring local Aruban musicians. Check the local newspapers or online listings for schedules and locations.
- People-Watching: Simply strolling through the streets of Oranjestad and watching the locals go about their daily lives can be a fascinating and free form of entertainment.
- Carnival celebrations: If you visit during the carnival season, you can immerse yourself in the festivities for free. While food and drinks cost money, watching the parades and enjoying the atmosphere is a free and unforgettable experience. Carnival season runs from January to February.
Check local event listings and tourism websites for free events during your visit.
Saving Money on Flights to Aruba
Flights can be a significant expense when traveling to Aruba, but there are ways to save money:
- Travel During the Off-Season: As mentioned earlier, traveling during the off-season can save you money on flights. September, October, and May are commonly good months to travel to Aruba.
- Be Flexible with Your Dates: Use flight comparison websites like Google Flights, Kayak or Skyscanner to search for the cheapest flights. Be flexible with your travel dates and consider flying on weekdays, which are often cheaper than weekends.
- Book in Advance: Booking your flights well in advance can often save you money, especially during peak season. However, keep an eye out for last-minute deals as well.
- Consider Connecting Flights: Connecting flights are often cheaper than direct flights. However, be sure to factor in the extra travel time and layover duration.
- Fly with Budget Airlines: Check for budget airlines that fly to Aruba. These airlines often offer lower prices, but be aware of extra fees for baggage and other services.
Pro Tip: Set up flight alerts on flight comparison websites to be notified when prices drop.
Utilizing Free Amenities and Services
Many hotels and resorts in Aruba offer free amenities and services that can help you save money:
- Free Breakfast: If your hotel offers free breakfast, take advantage of it. This will save you money on one meal per day.
- Free Wi-Fi: Many hotels and resorts offer free Wi-Fi, which can help you avoid expensive roaming charges.
- Free Activities: Some hotels offer free activities like yoga classes, water sports, and guided tours. Take advantage of these opportunities to stay entertained without spending extra money.
- Free Shuttle Services: Some hotels offer free shuttle services to and from the airport or nearby attractions. This can save you money on transportation costs.
Tips for Staying Connected on a Budget
Staying connected while traveling can be expensive, but there are ways to save money:
- Free Wi-Fi: As mentioned earlier, take advantage of free Wi-Fi hotspots at hotels, restaurants, and cafes.
- International SIM Card: Consider purchasing an international SIM card for your phone. This can be a more affordable option than paying roaming charges.
- WhatsApp and Other Messaging Apps: Use WhatsApp, Viber, or other messaging apps to communicate with friends and family back home. These apps use internet data, which is much cheaper than making international calls or sending text messages.
Important Tips to Note:
- Sunscreen: Sun in Aruba is very strong, so don’t forget to pack some. Expect to pay a lot more at stores for it in Aruba.
- Water: Bring a refillable water bottle. Tap water it is drinkable in Aruba, so you’ll save money and reduce plastic waste. Some people do not prefer it so bottled water is another great alternative.
- Credit Cards: Check with your credit card provider about international transaction fees before you travel. Some credit cards offer no foreign transaction fees.
FAQ Section
What is the cheapest time to visit Aruba?
The cheapest time to visit Aruba is during the off-season, which is typically in May, June, September, and October. During these months, you can find lower prices on flights and accommodations.
Is Aruba expensive to visit?
Aruba can be expensive, especially if you stay in luxury hotels and eat at tourist restaurants. However, with careful planning and budgeting, you can visit Aruba on a budget. Focus on affordable accommodations, free activities, local restaurants, and supermarket food shopping.
How much money do I need per day in Aruba?
This depends on your travel style. Budget travelers can get by on $50-$75 per day by staying in hostels or budget accommodations, cooking some of their own meals, and taking advantage of free activities. Mid-range travelers can expect to spend $100-$150 per day, while luxury travelers can easily spend over $200 per day.
Is it easy to get around Aruba without a car?
Yes, it is easy to get around Aruba without a car. The public bus system, Arubus, is reliable and affordable, and you can reach most parts of the island by bus. Taxis are also available, but they are more expensive than the bus.
What are some free things to do in Aruba?
Some free activities in Aruba include: visiting the beaches, hiking in Arikok National Park (some areas accessible without entrance fee), climbing Hooiberg, exploring the street art in San Nicolas, and visiting the California Lighthouse.
Are US dollars widely accepted in Aruba?
Yes, US dollars are widely accepted in Aruba. However, you may get a slightly better exchange rate if you pay in Aruban florin. Credit cards are also widely accepted, but be sure to check with your credit card provider about international transaction fees.
Is the tap water safe to drink in Aruba?
Yes, the tap water in Aruba is safe to drink. It is desalinated seawater and is of high quality. However, some people do not prefer the taste, so bottled water is also readily available.
References List
Aruba Tourism Authority
Arubus Public Transportation
Arikok National Park
Aruba offers a unique blend of relaxation and adventure, all within reach of budget-conscious travelers. With a little planning and these insider tips, you can experience the best of Aruba without breaking the bank. Start planning your dream trip to Aruba today, and discover how affordable paradise can be!
