With its crystal-clear waters, beautiful landscapes and vibrant culture, Aruba is considered a dream destination for many travellers. However, it’s often perceived as an expensive getaway mainly because the island has a reputation for its luxury resorts, fine dining, and high-end shopping. While it’s true that these experiences can quickly add up in terms of costs, they aren’t the only way to enjoy all that this beautiful island destination has to offer.
In fact, there are plenty of ways to experience Aruba, regardless of your budget—all while still letting you fully enjoy the beauty of the island. You can find numerous affordable accommodations, dining options, and activities that will let you have an unforgettable holiday while keeping costs under control.
Here are some practical tips on how to save money while making the most of your Aruban vacation.
Photo by Vera Wijermars | Feathering on Unsplash
1. Visit During Off-Peak Seasons
One of the best ways to save money on your Aruba vacation is by traveling during off-peak times. The peak tourist season in Aruba typically runs from mid-December through April, with December and January being particularly pricey. But if you travel during the off-peak seasons between April and November, it can help you avoid high accommodation rates and inflated prices on flights and activities.
In addition to lower prices, visiting during off-peak months means thinner crowds. This gives you a more relaxed and intimate experience with the island's natural beauty. You’ll also find that some accommodations and travel agencies offer special promotions during the shoulder seasons, so keep an eye out for those kinds of Aruba vacations deals when planning your trip. Always make sure to check out what locally operated providers and travel agencies offer, since they typically provide the best deals out there.
2. Select Budget-Friendly Accommodation
While Aruba is known for its luxurious resorts, staying in name-brand hotels can quickly eat into your vacation budget. Instead of booking an expensive hotel, consider renting a vacation home or apartment, which can be much more affordable and offer the added benefits of extra space and privacy.
When looking for accommodations, consider booking directly with locally run vacation rental companies. Compared to third-party booking platforms that may charge additional fees or markups, these companies offer lower prices and transparent pricing. They also often run special promotions and discounts for direct bookings so you can maximize your travel budget even more. Moreover, you gain insider knowledge when you book directly with local vacation rental providers. Local hosts are typically very eager to share tips on money-saving activities and dining options.
3. Do Your Grocery Shopping
Eating out in Aruba, especially in touristy areas, can be pricey. To save money, consider doing some grocery shopping to prepare your own meals. Local markets and grocery stores offer fresh, affordable ingredients that can help you cut down on your food expenses.
If you plan to stay in a vacation rental property, opt for one with a fully equipped kitchen. This way, you’ll have the freedom to prepare breakfast, lunch, and dinner at your convenience. This can be especially cost-effective if you're traveling with a group or family.
4. Eat Locally Instead of Opting for Tourist Traps
While it’s tempting to dine at high-end restaurants or those located in tourist-heavy areas, eating at local spots can save you a considerable amount of money. Aruba has a thriving food scene with affordable local eateries and food trucks where you can savour delicious Aruban and Caribbean dishes at a fraction of the cost.
Look for restaurants and food stalls favoured by locals, as they often offer the freshest meals at more reasonable prices. You’ll also get the opportunity to experience authentic island cuisine, such as fresh seafood, stews, and local specialties like pastechi (savoury pastry) and stoba (stewed meat).
5. Look for Happy Hour Specials and Deals
Aruba’s lively nightlife scene offers plenty of opportunities to save on food and drinks by taking advantage of happy hour specials. Many bars and restaurants have early evening deals where you can enjoy discounted drinks and appetizers.
Be sure to ask your vacation rental host for recommendations on the best happy hour spots in town. With a little planning, you can enjoy a night out without splurging on expensive cocktails.
6. Choose Free or Low-Cost Activities
Aruba also offers a wealth of free and low-cost activities that allow you to explore its natural beauty and vibrant culture without spending much. Some of the island’s best attractions, such as its stunning beaches, are completely free to access. For instance, you can spend your days relaxing on the white sands of Eagle Beach or Palm Beach.
Other affordable activities include hiking through Arikok National Park, visiting the California Lighthouse, or exploring local art galleries and museums. Snorkelling, kayaking, and kite surfing are also popular activities in Aruba that can be done at relatively low costs if you join a group tour.
7. Bring a Reusable Water Bottle
Staying hydrated while exploring Aruba’s sunny beaches is essential, but the costs of purchasing bottled water throughout the day can add up quickly. The good news is that Aruba’s tap water is completely safe to drink. Thanks to the island’s advanced water desalination plant and municipal water system, the tap water is clean, fresh, and of excellent quality. Having said that, make sure to bring a reusable water bottle on your trip to Aruba. You can refill it at your accommodation or public water stations across the island and save money. It’s very important to stay hydrated because the island experiences a semi-arid tropical climate throughout the year.
Aruba is a fantastic destination that doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. Thankfully, following these money-saving tips can help you enjoy an unforgettable holiday on the island without breaking the bank. With a little planning and a willingness to explore beyond the typical tourist spots, you’ll be able to make the most of your Aruba getaway while keeping your budget intact.
