Car Rental in Aruba: Explore the Island with Maximum Freedom

Aruba is small but surprisingly diverse and ideal for a road trip in a rental car. Discover snow-white beaches, impressive cliffs, rugged nature parks, and colorful towns at your own pace. With a rental car in Aruba, you’ll enjoy maximum freedom and set the pace of your trip yourself.

Renting a car in Aruba is the best way to explore the island. With a rental car, you can easily reach remote areas, Arikok National Park, and spectacular coastal routes. Plus, you can easily take day trips in Aruba to attractions that are hard to reach without your own transportation.

The Best Day Trips in Aruba by Rental Car

Some people say that Aruba is less spectacular than the other ABC islands (Bonaire and Curaçao), but nothing could be further from the truth. It’s no coincidence that the island is known as “One Happy Island.” Read our tips for an unforgettable vacation with a rental car in Aruba.

Exploring the North Coast by Rental Car

Drive north for spectacular ocean views. The paved road ends at the California Lighthouse and then turns into a dirt road along the northeastern cliffs. Although you’ll sometimes see regular cars here, a rental car with sufficient ground clearance is recommended. Always check with the rental company to see if driving on unpaved roads is permitted.

Highlights of Northern Aruba:

• Arashi Beach gets pretty crowded near the restaurant, but drive straight ahead for a bit and then turn left onto a dirt road. Park right near the beach and unload your stuff straight from your rental car.

• Any time is a good time to climb the California Lighthouse for a panoramic view, but sunset is undoubtedly the best time of day.

• The rolling white dunes near the lighthouse stand out against Aruba’s desert-like landscape. You can explore these vast sand dunes only on foot.

• If you can’t drive on the unpaved road along the coast, park your rental car at Kapel di Alto Vista. From the parking lot, it’s just a short walk to several coves.

Inland toward the top of the Hooiberg

From downtown Oranjestad, it takes less than 15 minutes by rental car to reach the large parking lot at the foot of the Hooiberg.

Aruba's inland highlights:

• Climb the 541 steps of the Hooiberg for a panoramic view of all of Aruba.

• There’s plenty of parking available near the massive rock formations Ayo Rock and Casibari Rock. You can see rock carvings made by Aruba’s original inhabitants.

Route along the cliffs on the east coast

With a regular rental car, you can easily reach the ruins of an old gold smelter. Further along, you'll come across several impressive bays.

Swimming spots along Aruba’s east coast:

• The Cave Pool is very well-known and can get crowded. At the rocky coves further along, there’s often no one else around! The eroded rock arches and crashing waves make for fantastic photo opportunities.

• Bodyboarders love Andicuri Beach because of its high waves. Blackstone Beach features a fascinating natural limestone bridge with three arches.

• Conchi Natural Pool is surrounded by black lava rocks. Park your rental car at Rancho Daimari and walk about two and a half kilometers. This cove is located within Arikok National Park, so be sure to purchase an admission ticket at the visitor center first.

Road trip through Arikok National Park in a rental car

Some routes in Arikok National Park require a 4×4, but you can easily explore a large part of the park with a regular rental car that has higher ground clearance. Enter the park through the San Fuego entrance and exit via Vader Piet.

Highlights of Arikok National Park, Aruba:

• Although the sea looks inviting, swimming in Boca Prins Bay is strictly prohibited due to dangerous undercurrents. You can, however, observe the Atlantic ghost crabs as they dart by at lightning speed.

• The Fontein Cave is an important archaeological site and offers a fascinating glimpse into Aruba’s geological history. The Quadirikiri Cave consists of two chambers illuminated by daylight through a hole in the ceiling. At dusk, countless bats leave the cave in search of food.

• The two small beaches of Dos Playa are the only place where all four species of sea turtles found in Aruba lay their eggs.

Rent a car to visit the southern beaches

Follow Route 1 south toward San Nicolas. At the red anchor, turn left for the surfing beaches or right for Baby Beach, which is perfect for small children thanks to its shallow water.

Water Sports Spots in Southern Aruba:

• Mangel Halto Beach offers a serene contrast to the busy, touristy beaches. The calm lagoon is surrounded by mangrove forests, and you can go snorkeling, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding there.

• If you turn left at the red anchor, you’ll first come to Boca Grandi (Big Mouth), named for the wide, semicircular shape of this beach. Further along lies the wider Grapefield Beach. Both beaches are perfect for kitesurfing.

• A paved road leads to the Sero Colorado lookout point. The road ends at a barren plain, but walk to the edge of the cliff and enjoy spectacular waves and foaming blowholes. There’s also a natural rock arch.

Other destinations you can easily reach with a rental car

Oranjestad – colonial charm

A trip to Aruba isn’t complete without a visit to its colorful capital. Stroll along the waterfront promenade, lined with pastel-colored colonial buildings, boutiques, and cozy cafés.

Discover attractions such as Fort Zoutman, home to the Aruba Historical Museum, and enjoy local delicacies at the lively street markets.

San Nicolas – murals

Local and international artists have left their mark on San Nicolas. This creative village is known for its enormous and colorful murals, sometimes combined with art installations. San Nicolas is about a thirty-minute drive from Oranjestad. You can easily combine a morning of street art with a relaxing afternoon at Baby Beach.

Eagle Beach – famous trees

Of course, you can’t miss the beach with Aruba’s two most famous trees. Eagle Beach is one of the island’s most beautiful beaches, but it can get quite crowded. Come early in the morning to take great photos of the trees with their twisted trunks. By the way, these aren’t dividivis, as is often thought, but fofotis.

Frequently Asked Questions About Renting a Car in Aruba

Is renting a car in Aruba recommended?

Yes. A rental car in Aruba gives you complete freedom to explore the island. Many attractions and beaches can only be reached by car.

Do you need a 4×4 in Aruba?

For most roads, a standard rental car is sufficient. A 4×4 is recommended only for rougher routes, such as along the northeast coast or parts of Arikok National Park.

Is driving in Aruba safe?

Yes. The roads are generally well-maintained and signage is clear. On less-traveled roads, however, you may encounter potholes. Watch out for potholes and loose rocks on unpaved roads.

Where’s the best place to rent a car in Aruba?

The largest selection of rental cars is available at Aruba Airport. Book online in advance to compare prices and ensure availability, especially during peak season.

Is parking free in Aruba?

Yes, almost everywhere. Paid parking applies only in downtown Oranjestad during the day, but there are free parking lots just outside the city center.

Rent a Car in Aruba at the Best Price

Want to rent a car in Aruba? You can easily compare prices, insurance options, and terms and conditions on our website. Book well in advance, as the selection of rental cars in Aruba is limited and popular models sell out quickly.

Choose a rental car with our Worry-Free label and enjoy a carefree road trip:

• Full damage coverage

• Unlimited mileage

• Favorable fuel policy

• Reliable, highly-rated rental companies

• No high deposit

Compare rental cars in Aruba now and book today for the best price!