Aruba, known for its stunning beaches, warm climate, and friendly locals, is a dream destination for many travelers. To ensure you have an enjoyable and respectful experience, here’s a list of things not to do while visiting Aruba.
By avoiding these mistakes, you’ll ensure a respectful and memorable visit to Aruba. Enjoy the “One Happy Island” to its fullest, and immerse yourself in its beauty and culture!
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Things Not to Do in Aruba
1. Don’t Forget to Protect Yourself from the Sun
The Caribbean sun is intense. Always apply sunscreen, wear a hat, and stay hydrated to avoid sunburn or heat exhaustion.
2. Don’t Litter
Aruba is known for its pristine beaches and clean environment. Always dispose of your trash properly and avoid leaving waste on the beaches or in nature.
3. Don’t Drink Tap Water with Hesitation
Aruba’s tap water is safe to drink and of high quality, thanks to its desalination process. Avoid unnecessary spending on bottled water.
4. Don’t Overlook the Importance of Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Chemicals in regular sunscreen can harm Aruba’s coral reefs and marine life. Opt for reef-safe sunscreen to help protect the environment.
5. Don’t Expect Everything to Be Cheap
Aruba imports many goods, so prices for food, drinks, and other items can be higher than in other destinations. Plan your budget accordingly.
6. Don’t Assume All Beaches Are Free
While most beaches in Aruba are public, some areas, especially near resorts, may charge for amenities like lounge chairs and umbrellas.
7. Don’t Swim Where It’s Prohibited
Certain areas, especially on the eastern coast, have strong currents and are unsafe for swimming. Pay attention to signs and local advice.
8. Don’t Ignore Local Customs
Arubans are friendly and laid-back, but it’s important to greet people politely and respect their culture. A simple “Bon dia” (Good morning) is always appreciated.
9. Don’t Touch or Disturb Wildlife
Aruba is home to unique flora and fauna, including endangered species. Avoid disturbing animals, coral reefs, or protected natural areas.
10. Don’t Forget to Tip
While tipping is not mandatory, it’s appreciated in restaurants, bars, and for services like taxis and tours. A tip of 10-15% is customary.
11. Don’t Ignore the “One Happy Island” Vibe
Aruba is known for its relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Avoid being impatient or overly demanding, especially in service interactions.
12. Don’t Rent a Car Without Understanding the Terrain
Aruba’s desert-like terrain includes dirt roads and rugged paths, particularly in areas like Arikok National Park. If you plan to explore, rent a suitable vehicle, such as a 4×4.
13. Don’t Feed the Fish
Feeding fish disrupts the natural ecosystem and can harm marine life. Observe underwater wildlife respectfully without altering their environment.
14. Don’t Forget to Pack Comfortable Shoes
While flip-flops are fine for the beach, many of Aruba’s natural attractions, like caves and hiking trails, require sturdy, comfortable footwear.
15. Don’t Visit Without Trying Local Cuisine
Don’t stick to international fare—try local dishes like keshi yena (stuffed cheese), pan bati (Aruban flatbread), and fresh seafood.
16. Don’t Underestimate the Trade Winds
Aruba’s constant trade winds make the heat more bearable but can also lead to unexpected sunburns. Stay protected, even if it feels breezy.
17. Don’t Assume All Locals Speak Dutch
While Dutch and Papiamento are Aruba’s official languages, most locals also speak English and Spanish. Don’t hesitate to communicate in English.
18. Don’t Be Careless with Coral or Shells
Removing coral, shells, or sand from Aruba is prohibited and harmful to the environment. Leave nature as you found it.
19. Don’t Drink Excessively in Public
While Aruba is known for its laid-back vibe, excessive public drinking or rowdy behavior can be frowned upon, especially outside of resorts or beach bars.
20. Don’t Skip the Island’s Interior
Aruba is more than its beaches. Explore the desert landscapes, Arikok National Park, the natural pools, and historical sites like the Alto Vista Chapel.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.