Aruba, the “One Happy Island,” might seem like a luxury destination, but with a bit of planning and insider knowledge, you can experience its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and delicious food without breaking the bank. This guide reveals secret tips and affordable spots in Aruba to help you create an unforgettable vacation on a budget.
Affordable Accommodation: Beyond the High-Rise Hotels
Forget the expensive resorts along Palm Beach if you’re watching your wallet. Aruba offers plenty of fantastic alternatives. Consider staying in the low-rise area of Eagle Beach, which boasts similar beautiful beaches with more affordable hotels and condos. Look at places like Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort (though not dirt cheap, it often has deals) or smaller boutique hotels. Airbnb is another excellent resource. You can find apartments or studios with kitchens, allowing you to save on food costs by preparing some of your own meals. Expect to pay around $75-$150 per night for a decent Airbnb, depending on the season and location. Try searching for places slightly inland – a few blocks away from the beach can lead to significant savings. Remember to read reviews carefully!
For the truly budget-conscious traveler, consider staying in a guesthouse or hostel. These options often offer private rooms at dorm-style pricing. Check out options in Oranjestad or Noord. Although hostels are not as common in Aruba as in other Caribbean islands, they can be a great way to meet other travelers and discover hidden gems. Staying in these more local areas also immerses you in the authentic Aruban culture, a bonus in itself. Hostels typically range from $30-$60 per night.
Cheap Eats: Where the Locals Go
Dining out can quickly eat up your budget. To avoid this, skip the tourist traps and explore the local culinary scene. Head to Zeerovers, a family-run seafood restaurant in Savaneta. It’s right on the water, and they serve fresh-caught fish fried to perfection. Don’t expect fancy plating; this is all about the taste and the authentic Aruban experience. A meal here will cost you around $15-$25 per person, a steal compared to the high-end restaurants. Be prepared for a short wait, as it’s a popular spot.
For a quick and affordable lunch, try Pastechi House. There are several locations around the island, and they serve delicious, savory pastries called pastechis. They’re stuffed with cheese, meat, or chicken and make a great snack or light meal. Budget about $2-$3 per pastechi. For a proper meal, go for local lunch specials (“plato di dia”). Many restaurants offer them for around $10-$15. These often include rice, beans, meat (chicken, beef, or fish), and a small salad – a filling and flavorful meal.
Speaking of local flavor, don’t miss trying the Aruban cuisine at dedicated local restaurants. Consider these for a delicious and affordable culinary experience:
Linda’s Dutch Pancakes: (Not exactly Aruban cuisine, but Dutch-influenced) Offers both sweet and savory pancakes at reasonable prices. Located in Noord. Prepare for a wait on weekends.
The Bugaloe Beach Bar & Grill: Situated on a pier between the RIU Palace and Hilton Resort hotels. It offers a fun atmosphere, simple fare, and breathtaking sunsets. It is not an extremely cheap option, but prices are cheaper than many resort restaurants.
Local Store: This isn’t one particular restaurant, but every Aruban neighborhood has “local stores.” These small shops always have cold soft drinks, local juices and some food like sandwich and other snacks and prices are always reasonable.
Visiting supermarkets can significantly reduce your food costs. Ling & Sons IGA Supermarket is the largest and offers a wide variety of groceries. Super Food Plaza is another excellent option. Stock up on breakfast items, snacks, and drinks to avoid overpriced hotel restaurants and bars. Consider preparing your own picnic lunches to take to the beach – much cheaper (and often healthier) than buying from beachside vendors.
Free (or Nearly Free) Activities: Enjoying Aruba’s Natural Beauty
Aruba’s beaches are free and readily accessible. Eagle Beach consistently ranks among the world’s best beaches, and for good reason. Its soft white sand and turquoise waters are breathtaking. Bring your own towel and sunscreen to avoid unnecessary expenses. Arashi Beach in the northern part of the island is another great option, with calm, clear water ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Baby Beach, at the southern tip, is perfect for families with young children due to its shallow waters.
Exploring Arikok National Park is a must-do. The entrance fee is $11 per person, but it’s worth it! The park covers almost 20% of the island and offers diverse landscapes, from rugged coastlines to caves with ancient Arawak Indian drawings. Hike to the top of Mount Jamanota, Aruba’s highest point, for panoramic views. Visit the Fontein Cave and Quadirikiri Cave – bring a flashlight! Be aware that some areas of the park require a 4×4 vehicle due to the rough terrain. If you don’t have one, consider joining a guided tour that includes transportation.
Snorkeling is a fantastic way to explore Aruba’s underwater world. While organized snorkeling tours can be expensive, grab your own snorkeling gear (or rent it for a reasonable price – around $10-$15 per day) and head to Mangel Halto. This secluded beach offers excellent snorkeling in calm, shallow waters. You’ll see colorful fish, coral, and even some shipwrecks. Boca Catalina is another excellent snorkeling spot, easily accessible from the shore.
The California Lighthouse offers stunning views of the island’s northwestern tip. While there’s a small fee to climb to the top, simply walking around the base and enjoying the scenery is free. It’s a great spot for sunset viewing. Explore the nearby California Dunes for a unique desert landscape.
Explore the unique rock formations at Casibari and Ayo Rock Formations. Climbing these rock formations offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It’s completely free to visit these sites, making them excellent budget-friendly options. They provide great photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate Aruba’s unique geology.
Getting Around: Affordable Transportation Options
Renting a car can be expensive in Aruba. Save money by utilizing the efficient and affordable public bus system, Arubus. A single ride costs $3.00 (AWG 5.50), or you can purchase a day pass for $10.00 (AWG 17.50). The buses run frequently along the main tourist areas, making it easy to get to beaches, restaurants, and attractions. The main bus terminal is located in Oranjestad. Check the Arubus website for schedules and routes.
If you plan to explore more remote areas, consider renting a car for just a day or two instead of the entire trip. This allows you to see Arikok National Park or Baby Beach without breaking the bank. Compare prices from different rental companies – Enterprise and Budget often offer competitive rates. Remember to factor in the cost of gas, which can be more expensive than in the US.
Walking is a great way to explore Oranjestad and the areas around Palm Beach and Eagle Beach. It allows you to discover hidden gems and soak in the atmosphere. Consider renting a bicycle for a day to explore the coast at your own pace. Many hotels and rental shops offer bike rentals for around $15-$25 per day.
Happy Hour & Deals: Savvy Drinking and Dining
Take advantage of happy hour deals to save money on drinks and appetizers. Most bars and restaurants offer happy hour specials, typically between 5 pm and 7 pm. Look for two-for-one drink deals or discounted appetizers. Many establishments advertise their happy hour specials on signs outside or on their websites.
Many restaurants, particularly those outside the immediate tourist zone offer lunch specials much lower in price than dinner offerings, This is a good option if you want to enjoy some higher-end cuisine on a lower budget.
Consider purchasing a “discount card” or tourist card. Some cards offer discounts on attractions, restaurants, and activities. Research these cards before your trip to see if they are worth the investment, based on your planned activities.
Free Events & Activities: Enjoying Aruban Culture
Check the local event calendars for free events and activities. Many cultural events, festivals, and concerts are held throughout the year. The Bon Bini Festival, held every Tuesday evening in Oranjestad, showcases Aruban music, dance, and crafts. It’s a great way to experience the local culture without spending any money. Check local listings prior to your trip, as the festival’s schedule and venue have changed over time.
Visit the Aruba Aloe Factory and Museum to learn about the history of aloe cultivation on the island. The tours are free and informative, and you can purchase aloe products at discounted prices.
Take a walk along the Linear Park, a scenic waterfront park that stretches along the coast. It’s a great place to exercise, relax, and enjoy the views. There are also several free outdoor workout stations along the park.
Shopping Smart: Souvenirs on a Budget
Skip the tourist shops and head to local markets for souvenirs. The San Nicolas Art Fair, held on Thursday evenings showcases local art and crafts. You can find unique and affordable souvenirs. The Cosecha store in Oranjestad sells locally made products at reasonable prices. Haggling is not common in Aruba, but it’s always worth asking if there are any discounts available, especially when purchasing multiple items.
If you’re looking for duty-free shopping, check out the shops in Oranjestad. However, compare prices carefully to ensure you’re getting a good deal. Sometimes, the prices are not significantly lower than in your home country. Many smaller, local souvenier shops have fixed prices posted for tourists.
Avoiding Tourist Traps: Saving Money and Experiencing the Real Aruba
Be wary of tourist traps and overpriced activities. Consider staying away from restaurants that exclusively cater to tourists. Instead look for the “local spots,” frequented by Arubans – there’s a reason why they are there. The same applies to beaches and tours: venture beyond the “hot spots” and look for secluded and quieter places. This gets you close to the true Aruban experience, while potentially saving you money.
Be mindful of hidden fees and charges. Some hotels add service charges or resort fees to your bill. Ask about these fees before you book. Similarly, some restaurants automatically add a gratuity to the bill, especially for larger groups. Check the bill carefully to avoid double-tipping.
Learn a few basic Papiamento phrases. Even a few words can go a long way in showing respect for the local culture and can sometimes result in better service or a friendly discount. “Bon dia” (good morning), “danki” (thank you), and “por fabor” (please) are good starting points.
Telecommunications on a Budget
Avoid using your home country’s cellular data in Aruba, as roaming charges can be exorbitant. Instead, consider purchasing a local SIM card. Digicel and SETAR are the two main providers. You can purchase a SIM card at the airport or at various stores around the island. A local SIM card will allow you to use data for navigation, social media, and contacting family and friends at a fraction of the cost.
Free Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, restaurants, and cafes. Take advantage of free Wi-Fi to check your email, browse the internet, and make calls using apps like WhatsApp or Skype. This can save you a significant amount of money on international calling charges.
Saving on Currency Exchange Rates
While both US dollars and Aruban florins (AWG) are widely accepted, it’s often more advantageous to use florins for smaller purchases, as some establishments may offer less favorable exchange rates when using US dollars.
Check with your bank to confirm whether you will be charged international transaction fees when using credit or debit cards in Aruba. Opt for credit cards that do not impose these fees to minimize expenses on purchases.
The official currency in Aruba is the Aruban Florin (AWG). The exchange rate is fixed at roughly 1.79 AWG per 1 US dollar. While US dollars are widely accepted, you will often receive change in florins. Credit cards are also widely accepted, but it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases and tips.
Travel Insurace
While we all hope for smooth sailing, travel mishaps can occur. Investing in affordable travel insurance ensures you’re covered for unexpected medical expenses, lost luggage, or trip cancellations. Shop around for policies that fit your budget and provide adequate coverage. It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind.
FAQ Section
What is the best time to visit Aruba on a budget?
The off-season, typically from April to August or September, offers the best deals on flights and accommodation. The weather is still excellent, though it may be slightly warmer and more humid. Avoid the peak season (December to March) when prices are highest.
Is Aruba safe for budget travelers?
Aruba is generally considered a safe island for tourists. However, it’s always important to take precautions: Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas. Keep your valuables out of sight. Be aware of your surroundings. Petty theft can occur, especially in crowded tourist areas.
How much spending money should I bring to Aruba?
This depends on your travel style and planned activities. However, on a tight budget, you can expect to spend around $50-$75 per day, excluding accommodation and flights. This would cover basic meals, transportation, and some activities. If you plan to eat out more often or participate in more expensive activities, you’ll need to budget accordingly.
What should I pack for Aruba?
Pack light, breathable clothing, such as cotton or linen. Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and comfortable walking shoes. A light sweater or jacket may be useful for evenings. Don’t forget insect repellent, especially if you plan to visit Arikok National Park.
Are there any free things to do in Oranjestad?
Yes! Walk around the colorful streets and admire the Dutch colonial architecture, visit the Wilhelmina Park, see the Renaissance Mall and watch the yachts, visit the Fort Zoutman, and stroll around the harbor.
What is there to do for nightlife around Oranjestad?
Oranjestad has a few fun options for nightlife. Most of them are not exactly budget friendly. It might be fun watching the sunset from a bar. The city also has a casino and some dance clubs. Overall, nights in Oranjestad are more relaxed than in other destinations around the world.
References
Arubus Official Website
Arikok National Park Official Website
Ling & Sons IGA Supermarket Official Website
Ready to experience the magic of Aruba without emptying your wallet? Start planning your budget-friendly adventure today! Book your affordable accommodation, research local eateries, and map out your free activities. Aruba awaits—happy travels!
