So you've just docked in Aruba and you're trying to stick to a budget. That's completely okay. Aruba can be expensive if you let it be, but with a little planning, you can have an amazing day on the island without spending a fortune.
Start with the Bus
One of the best budget-friendly options in Aruba is the public bus system.
When you leave the cruise terminal, walk out to the main road and cross the street. Behind the Dollar Plus store you'll find the main bus terminal. This is where you can purchase bus passes and get information on routes.
A round-trip ticket is usually around $5, while an all-day hop-on/hop-off style pass is approximately $15. The buses are operated by Arubus, and routes and schedules are available on their website. Depending on your destination, buses generally run every 20 to 40 minutes.
Even if you don't have a specific destination in mind, riding the bus can be a great way to see different parts of the island and get a feel for Aruba beyond the cruise port area.
PRO TIP: If you are going to the beaches sit on the right side (when looking front to back) to have a view of the ocean, where possible.
Best Beaches for First-Time Visitors
If this is your first visit to Aruba, I'd recommend sticking to the most popular tourist areas:
- Eagle Beach
- Palm Beach
- Arashi Beach
All three are beautiful, easy to access by bus, and each offers a slightly different experience.
Eagle Beach is known for its wide stretches of soft sand and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Palm Beach is where you'll find the resorts, restaurants, shopping, and lots of activity.
Arashi Beach offers excellent snorkeling opportunities and tends to be a little quieter.
The best part? You can easily visit all three in the same day using the all-day bus pass.
Just pay attention to which bus route you need. Fortunately, all routes eventually return to downtown Oranjestad, directly across the street from the cruise terminal. That's about as convenient as it gets.
PRO TIP: If you end in Palm Beach you will have plenty of options for food, drinks, shopping, and even some great sights to see
Enjoy the Beaches for Free
One of my favorite things about Aruba is that the beaches themselves are free.
Bring a towel or lightweight blanket if you don't want to rent a beach chair. Many visitors spend the day simply swimming, walking, and soaking up the sunshine.
If you're more interested in exploring than sitting still, consider starting near the Divi area and walking north along the beach path toward Palm Beach and the high-rise hotel district.
The views are spectacular.
Along the way you'll find plenty of opportunities to:
- Stop for a swim
- Grab a snack
- Enjoy a cold drink
- Take photos
- Simply relax and enjoy the scenery
It's one of the best walks on the island.
PRO TIP: Bring your water if you are going to walk the beach, Aruba is HOT!
Food Options: Save or Splurge
If you're watching every dollar, there's no shame in heading back to the ship for lunch. You've already paid for the food, after all.
One advantage of using the bus is that you can easily return to the ship, eat, and head back out for more exploring later in the day.
If you'd rather stay ashore and enjoy Aruba's food scene, continue walking toward the Barcelo area on Palm Beach. From there, cross the road and you'll find countless restaurants, bars, shops, and gathering spots.
There are options for almost every budget, from quick bites to full sit-down meals.
You'll also find bus stops nearby, making it easy to continue your adventure or head back downtown when you're ready.
PRO TIP: If you want to save, but enjoy your time on the beach, check out The Bread Basket for a sandwich that is very reasonable priced (and delish!); OR Scott's Brats for a cost effective (and good/fun) meal; Or try splitting a couple of appitizers at Carlitos Sports bar and enjoy the great food and atmosphere.
Don't Rush the Day
One mistake many cruise passengers make is treating Aruba like a quick stop.
Most cruise ships spend around 12 hours in port, giving you plenty of time to explore, relax, and enjoy the island at a slower pace.
Whether you're spending the day beach hopping, riding the bus, shopping, swimming, or simply watching the waves roll in, make the most of your time.
And whatever you do, try to stay for sunset.
Aruba has some of the most beautiful sunsets in the Caribbean, and they're the perfect way to end a budget-friendly day in paradise.
PRO TIP: Anywhere on Palm and Eagle beach are great to watch the sunset, but if you have to head back to the ship, then just head up to the top and watch it from there.