Aruba’s sun-drenched beaches, turquoise waters, and lively culture make it the perfect getaway—but managing your money wisely ensures a stress-free trip. Whether you’re savoring fresh seafood by the ocean, browsing for handcrafted souvenirs, or booking island excursions, this guide covers everything you need to know—what currency to bring, the best ways to get money and currency in Aruba (Aruban Florins (AWG)), cash safety tips, and essential dos and don’ts. With these insights, you’ll avoid hidden fees and fully immerse yourself in Aruba’s laid-back paradise.
How to pay in Aruba – cash or card?
In Aruba, both cash and card payments are widely accepted, with a strong emphasis on accommodating tourists. Aruba’s official currency is the Aruban Florin (AWF), but the U.S. Dollar (USD) is also widely accepted across the island. Most businesses, especially those in the tourism sector, accept major credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express. However, it’s advisable to carry some cash, particularly in smaller denominations, for certain transactions.
You can use cash for:
- Taxis: While some taxis may accept credit cards, many operate on a cash-only basis. It’s recommended to confirm payment methods with the driver beforehand.
- Local Markets and Street Vendors: Purchases at local markets, street stalls, and food trucks are predominantly cash-based.
- Small Eateries and Bars: Some smaller or family-run establishments may prefer cash payments.
- Tips and Gratuities: While service charges are often included in bills, leaving additional tips in cash is customary for exceptional service.
You can use card for:
- Hotels and Resorts: Major hotels and resorts widely accept credit cards for bookings and incidental expenses.
- Restaurants and Cafés: Most dining establishments, especially in tourist areas, facilitate card payments.
- Retail Stores: Shopping centers, boutiques, and supermarkets commonly accept credit and debit cards.
- Car Rentals and Excursions: Established agencies typically offer card payment options.
What’s the best currency to take to Aruba
Both US Dollars or Aruban Florin are good currencies to take if you are travelling to Aruba. But note that paying or withdrawing money in the local currency (in this case Aruban Florin) comes with the least amount of fees, sometimes fee-free too.
Note that when you pay in US Dollars, you might get the change back in Aruban Florin. The exchange rate in such transactions is usually poor. So try to pay in the local currency as much as possible. Additionally, some businesses may not accept $50 or $100 bills due to concerns about counterfeiting.
Euros or Pounds are not widely accepted here.
Where to get currency in Aruba
There are 3 main ways to get cash in Aruba. They are:
ATMs, or
Currency exchange, or
Money transfer & local pick-up
Types of cards to swipe in Aruba
Visa and Mastercard transactions are commonly accepted for swiping. You might also find some places that accept Amex and other cards, albeit less frequently.
Should I exchange money before travelling to Aruba
Bringing a small amount of Aruban Florins (AWG) or U.S. Dollars (USD) before traveling can be useful for immediate expenses like taxis, tips, and small purchases. However, since USD is widely accepted in Aruba, exchanging money before arrival is not always necessary. If you need Aruban Florins, it’s best to exchange currency at banks, or authorized exchange bureaus, which offer better rates than hotels, tourist shops or airports. Be aware that some businesses may not accept large USD bills ($50 or $100) due to concerns about counterfeiting.
Alternatively, withdrawing cash from ATMs in Aruba is a convenient option, as ATMs are widely available in airports, cities, and hotels. Many ATMs dispense both Aruban Florins and U.S. Dollars, making them a flexible choice. Most ATMs accept Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus, Plus, and Maestro cards, but check with your bank for international withdrawal fees.
Where to withdraw currency in Aruba
There is very little choice in Aruba in terms of ATMs. The best ATMs for foreigners to use in Aruba are those owned by popular banks such as:
Aruba Bank
RBC Royal
CMB Bank
There are other banks with ATMs that also accept international debit and credit cards.
There are no international banks in Aruba and there are no known Global ATM Alliance member banks or All Pints network banks in Aruba.
Where to exchange currency in Aruba
Common places to exchange currency in Aruba are licenced exchange bureaus or banks.
In Aruba, the official currency is the Aruban Florin (AWG), but the U.S. Dollar (USD) is widely accepted across the island. This widespread acceptance means that many visitors find it unnecessary to exchange their U.S. Dollars for local currency. However, for those who prefer or need to use Aruban Florins, several options are available for currency exchange.
Currency Exchange Options in Aruba are limited. You can use the banks like Aruba Bank, RBC Royal Bank typically between 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM on weekdays. Or you can use the few local currency exchange centres in the main street.
Use the ATM Fee Saver app, which will direct you to the closest currency exchange on a map, you can locate reliable currency exchanges. You may use the app to find currency locations in more than 100 countries, including Aruba.
Avoid airport exchanges and exchange offices that charge no fees. They charge the highest fees and offer the worst exchange rates. Hold off on exchanging cash until you reach the city.
Safety of carrying cash in Aruba
Carrying cash in Aruba is generally safe due to the island’s low crime rate. However, it is still necessary to take precautions, particularly in congested places or tourist hot spots. Keep your belongings secure and don’t attract too much attention when handling cash in public.
Is it better to use debit or credit cards or pay by cash in Aruba
If there are no fees, use a card. For example, your bank does not charge you for using a card, the merchant or point-of-sale system does not charge you extra for using a card. Use it also if you want to use the card’s insurance, you don’t want to block the cash for big transactions, and the card’s swipe fees are less than the withdrawal fees.
Pay using cash by exchanging currencies or withdrawing cash from an ATM if the fees associated with ATM withdrawals are lower than those associated with swiping cards, you don’t want a digital foot print and it is more simple and straightforward to complete transactions.
