I'm coming to Aruba in early Dec. - stayin at Radisson 3 nights and then Marriott 3 nights. I've been to Aruba once for the day on a cruise and saw the sights (Lighthouse, Natural Bridge, etc.).

Any opinions on whether or not I should rent a car while in Aruba? I was thinking of at least getting a jeep for the day to explore and go to the grocery store, but not sure if I need a car beyond that - should I maybe get a jeep one day and a regular car other days?

Also, what is parking like in Aruba?

A lot of questions I know, any feedback is most appreciated.

Looking forward to our visit!

You can rent a car for under $200 per week,its going to cost you $20 each way to and from the airport(last years price) I like to have the car to come and go as we please.No problem with parking.

You should really rent a car as there is only little public transportation and the taxis are pretty expensive. No problem to park anywhere you want without any fee.
Have a nice holiday

Stay away from Aruba!!!

We rented a jeep for 24 hours and it was one of the best days of our trip. We explored the "outback" and had a blast! Make sure to take some bottled water with you as it gets hot. We did not have a car the whole week but took taxi's. (stayed at the Marriott) Having a jeep for 24 hours gave us a taste of having a vehicle. It is not neccesary but we liked the flexibility it offered. Next time we will rent a vehicle for our whole trip. They do charge more for jeeps so that might get a little pricey keeping it for the whole week. I think your idea for a jeep one day and a car for the rest of the week is a good plan!

What ARUBA did you guys go to?
Public transportation is very reliable and cabs are reasonable. We rented a Jimny from Amigo for 2 days....saw the whole north end of the Island and went to Flying Fishbone (that cab ride is pretty expensive) and loaded our suite with groceries. Beyond that, we had no need for a rent-a-car....save your money for the Casinos!
Good Luck and have FUN!
Bill
Quinedge@aol.com

We stay at LaCabana for 2 weeks . Take the bus into town , cheap , or a taxi at night . I do not find taxis expensive . 7-8 $$$$ from the airport 20.00 , if on a sunday . They are a little more on sundays . Not much to explore on the island .

Hey Gov,
The other posts seem to have hit the target. If I was comming to Aruba on vacation, I would definately rent a car.

Why?

There is so much more to see on this island beyod your resort premises. If you have vacationed extensively abroad, you will know that resorts tend to be pretty much the same and do not alsways represent the true flavor of the location where your resort is located. Even Marriott (they do a great job by the way) is punched out from a success mold.

Drive around and have stories to tell. Get lost on a back road and see how the people will help you. Go on vacation!!

Be well
charles

Rent a car, in my opinion. It's really convenient to just hop in it and run down the road to whatever you want. Parking is funny; just put it about anywhere. Don't know about the Renaissance, but parking at the Marriott is free and easy to get spaces. Just stay away from the Yaris-great trunk space and made of tin! A friend recommended Optima to rent from.
Good luck! lmoon

Hello Gov,

How is it going?

Yes I like to rent at least for a few days mostly to buzz around to different beaches. Take pre dinner trip up to the CA lighthouse watch some big waves.
Maybe an early morning little cruise w/ coffee.
Prefer Suzuki Jimney 4WD cheaper than full size jeep but very good in the sand, a car would easily get stuck and would limit driving to roads only, kinda boring vs off road fun fun fun it is vacation.
Seriously check a few different beaches out only takes a few minutes to drive to.

Dec is early so it shouldn't be too crowded and easy to get the rental you want.

Have a lot of fun in Aruba!

Suds