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Come visit the Historic monuments of Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins in Aruba.

Aruba's Island Facts

Aruba is a small island in the southern Caribbean Sea, about 15 miles north of Venezuela.

Aerial shot of the California Lighthouse in Aruba.

Known for its dry climate, sunny skies, and friendly communities, Aruba combines natural beauty with a rich cultural history. 

Quick Facts About Aruba

  • Location: Southern Caribbean, just off the coast of Venezuela

  • Size: Approximately 69 square miles

  • Population: Around 110,000 residents

  • Official Languages: Dutch and Papiamento; English and Spanish widely spoken

  • Currency: Aruban florin (AWG), US dollars accepted in most places

  • Climate: Tropical semi-arid, warm and sunny year-round with occasional brief rainfall

  • Time Zone: Atlantic Standard Time (AST), no daylight savings.

Geography and Nature

  • The island is mostly flat with some low hills, including Hooiberg, a notable volcanic formation.

  • Aruba has natural parks, protected beaches, and coastal ecosystems that support diverse wildlife.

  • Its beaches feature white sand, calm or moderate waves, and clear waters suitable for swimming and observing marine life.

Culture and History

  • Aruba has a blend of indigenous, Dutch, and Caribbean influences that show in architecture, cuisine, and traditions.

  • Local festivals, music, and artisan crafts celebrate the island’s heritage.

  • Oranjestad, the capital, features colorful colonial architecture, museums, and vibrant markets.

Sustainability and Community

  • The island emphasizes responsible tourism and conservation.

  • Guests are encouraged to respect the environment, wildlife, and local customs.

  • Community initiatives focus on protecting natural resources and supporting local artisans.

 

A closer look at Aruba

Weather & climate

Aruba averages a balmy 82 degrees , with more sunny days than any other Caribbean island.

Language

While Dutch and Papiamento are our official languages, most Arubans also speak English and Spanish.

Special needs

Our happy island is open and accessible to all, and we offer accommodations to visitors with special needs.

Sustainability

The pursuit of happiness and wellbeing is the cornerstone of Aruba’s approach. Ultimately, we hope to be the model for a low-carbon, sustainable and prosperous economy that can be replicated in other island nations.

Aruba Time Zone

As you probably know, Aruba is located in the Caribbean Sea. It’s only one boat trip away from many American countries, like Venezuela, Mexico and the United States.

 

The Aruba Effect

Faces of Aruba fisherman

The One happy island is known for its white sandy beaches, sunshine, and friendly people.


You’ll get the best Aruba facts straight from the mouths and hearts of our happy people. So, pull up a chair, pop open a cold beer, and have a friendly chat.

More facts about the island

A peaceful and beautiful place to relax in Aruba.

Aruba Weather Forecast & Climate

Consistently balmy temperatures, perpetually sunny skies, and refreshing trade winds. That’s the Aruba Effect!

A local displaying many of his art work of Aruba.

Languages spoken in Aruba

In Aruba, you’ll find a lot of spoken languages – because of the great variation of influences of other cultures on the Aruban island.

Aruba's Money - Florin.
On the 4th of June 2019, the Central Bank of Aruba introduced a new series of florin banknotes. The new florin banknotes are a celebration of the life and beauty of Aruba and includes elements from the Island's rich culture, flora and fauna.

Official Currency of Aruba

The official local currency is the Aruban Florin; however, U.S. dollars are widely accepted.

01-04-22-equity

Wildlife: Discover the animals of Aruba

When planning a Caribbean vacation, you might wonder how many exotic animals you’ll spot. When that vacation is to Aruba, the answer is: a lot!

Male in his wheelchair enjoying the view of the beach.

Special Needs in Aruba

Our goal is to make traveling with special needs in Aruba as convenient, stress-free, and as comfortable as possible.

Solar Panel Shade and Electricity outlet in front of Tourist Information Office in San Nicolas Aruba

Responsible Tourism

It’s more important than ever to protect and preserve our island, with our indigenous flora and fauna declining and coral reefs disappearing.​

Aruba Sunset & Sunrise Time

Experience the captivating natural transitions in Aruba's cities.

Where is Aruba located?

Aruba is a Caribbean island located in the southern Caribbean Sea, about 15 to 18 miles north of the Venezuelan peninsula of Paraguaná.

Featured Articles

Endless Summer

How to Escape the Winter Blues

Aruba boasts sunny weather year-round! Check out some reasons why Aruba has the best weather in the entire Caribbean.

A Perfect Spring Vacation

4 Reasons You Need to Visit Aruba This Spring!

The following are four reasons why every traveler should escape the cold and enjoy the sun and sand in Aruba this year.

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Adventure

Arikok National Park Aruba

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Ayo Rock Formations

Come visit the Historic monuments of Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins in Aruba.

Culture

Historic Gold Mines

We’re just getting started with the amazing effects Aruba has to offer. Dig into your trip details below to unlock a Caribbean experience that will fill you with sunshine and send you home with a happy afterglow that never fades.

Plan Your Effect

TRIP PLANNER

myAruba planner

Save your favorite places and experiences to a custom itinerary you can manage while you're visiting the island: Start Planning

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