For first-time visitors to Aruba, the first step is completing the Aruba ED Card at edcardaruba.aw within 7 days before arrival. After that: Aruba is safe, sunny, and English-friendly — USD is accepted everywhere, hurricanes are rare, and the beaches are among the best in the Caribbean. Here’s everything you need for a successful first trip.
Step 1: Complete Your Aruba ED Card (Start Here)
Before anything else, know that every air traveler to Aruba must complete the Aruba ED Card online before departure. This is mandatory — your airline won’t let you board without it. Complete it at edcardaruba.aw within 7 days of your arrival date.
What you need to complete it:
- Valid passport
- Arrival flight number and date
- Accommodation address in Aruba
- Credit card for the $20 sustainability fee (Visa, Mastercard, or Discover)
After submitting, you receive a qualifier document. Show it at check-in and at immigration.
What First-Time Visitors Need to Know About Entry
- No visa needed for US, Canadian, EU, UK, and Australian citizens (up to 90 days)
- No COVID documentation required (removed March 2022)
- Passport must be valid for your entire trip; at least 1 blank page for stamp
- Return ticket: Recommended; immigration may ask
Best Time to Visit Aruba
Aruba enjoys remarkable weather year-round — it’s one of the sunniest Caribbean islands with consistent trade winds that keep temperatures pleasant. Key facts:
- Temperature: 80-90°F (27-32°C) year-round
- Trade winds: Nearly constant — keeps the heat comfortable
- Hurricane risk: Very low — Aruba is south of the hurricane belt (12 degrees north of the equator)
- Peak season: December-April (high prices, more crowds)
- Value season: May-November (lower prices, fewer tourists, still great weather)
Where to Stay in Aruba
- Palm Beach: Most tourist infrastructure — large hotels, restaurants, water sports, casinos. Best for amenities and nightlife.
- Eagle Beach: Quieter, less commercial. Some of the best beach in Aruba. Preferred by travelers seeking relaxation.
- Oranjestad: Capital city area. Good for exploring local culture, shopping, and dining. Slightly further from main beaches.
- Noord: Inland area between Palm Beach and Eagle Beach. Good value hotels with easy beach access.
Top Things to Do for First-Timers
- Visit Eagle Beach — consistently rated among world’s best beaches
- Snorkel at Aruba’s Antilla shipwreck — one of the largest wreck dives in the Caribbean
- Drive to Arikok National Park — covers 20% of the island; cacti, wildlife, caves
- Explore Natural Pool (Conchi) — natural rock pool on the rough northern coast (4WD required)
- Visit Aruba Butterfly Farm
- Explore Oranjestad — Dutch colonial architecture, duty-free shopping, local restaurants
Beaches: Palm Beach vs Eagle Beach vs Other
| Beach | Vibe | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Palm Beach | Lively, hotel-lined | Amenities, water sports, restaurants on beach |
| Eagle Beach | Quiet, spacious | Relaxation, swimming, couples |
| Baby Beach | Calm, shallow lagoon | Families with young children, snorkeling |
| Arashi Beach | Local favorite, reef nearby | Snorkeling, uncrowded swimming |
| Boca Catalina | Small, clear water | Snorkeling, quiet escape |
Insider tip from Reddit: Hit the beach early (7am) or after 5pm to avoid crowds and get a palapa (thatch umbrella). The best palapas fill up fast at popular beaches.
Money, Currency, and Tipping in Aruba
- Currency: Aruban florin (AWG) — but USD is accepted everywhere as a tourist
- Exchange rate: 1 USD = approximately 1.79 AWG (fixed rate)
- No need to exchange money — USD accepted at hotels, restaurants, stores, taxis
- Credit cards: Widely accepted. Use for larger purchases to avoid carrying cash.
- Tipping: 10-15% at restaurants. Some automatically add a service charge — check your bill first.
- ATMs: Available in Oranjestad and at hotels; dispense AWG or USD (depending on machine)
Safety and Local Laws
Aruba is consistently ranked as one of the safest Caribbean islands. Key points:
- Petty theft can occur near tourist areas — keep valuables secured
- Never leave items unattended on the beach
- Reef-safe sunscreen is strongly encouraged (oxybenzone harms Aruba’s coral reefs)
- Marijuana is not legal in Aruba
- The legal drinking age is 18
- Traffic drives on the right side of the road
Insider Tips from Reddit and Travel Experts
- The trade winds mean it always feels breezy — but the UV index is extreme. Wear SPF 50+ reef-safe sunscreen and reapply every 90 minutes.
- Book car rental in advance during peak season — availability runs out quickly.
- Eagle Beach palapas (shade structures) are first-come, first-served — arrive before 8am during peak season.
- Tap water in Aruba is safe to drink — one of the few Caribbean islands where it is.
- The island is mostly flat and windy — you’ll rarely feel oppressively hot outdoors.
FAQ
What should I do first when planning an Aruba trip?
Complete your Aruba ED Card at edcardaruba.aw within 7 days before arrival. This is mandatory for all air travelers.
Is Aruba safe for first-time visitors?
Yes. Aruba is one of the safest Caribbean islands with very low crime rates.
What language do they speak in Aruba?
Papiamento (local), Dutch (official), and English — widely spoken everywhere.
Do I need a car in Aruba?
Recommended for flexibility. Rental cars or tours needed for beaches and inland attractions.
Is tipping expected in Aruba?
Yes. 10-15% at restaurants. Check if service charge is already included.
Does Aruba get hit by hurricanes?
Rarely. Aruba is south of the hurricane belt — one of the Caribbean’s safest destinations year-round.
What is the best beach in Aruba for first-timers?
Eagle Beach for relaxation, Palm Beach for amenities and water sports.
Is the US dollar accepted in Aruba?
Yes. USD accepted everywhere. No need to exchange currency.