Getting around

Rent a car, orskip it entirely?

Whether you need a car in Aruba depends entirely on your trip style. Palm Beach resort guests can walk, bus, and taxi their way through a week; explorers heading to Baby Beach, Arikok, or hidden coves will want wheels.

Do you actually need one?

If you're planted at a Palm Beach or Eagle Beach resort and plan to stick close — beach, hotel restaurants, maybe a dinner walk to Moomba — skip the car. Taxis are plentiful, buses run regularly, and everything's walkable. But if you want to hit Baby Beach, explore Arikok's dirt roads, chase sunsets at different beaches, or grocery-shop for your rental kitchen, a car unlocks the island. One smart compromise: rent for just a few days mid-trip to explore, then rely on taxis the rest of the week.

Your options

Compared from real traveler answers.

Local rental companies

Small, family-run agencies that deliver cars to your hotel or the airport, often at better prices than the big chains. Travelers consistently praise their service, flexibility, and vehicle quality. Expect around $250–$280/week, sometimes less with cash discounts.

Why you'll love it

Better prices than international chains — some report $27/day or $250 for 5 days
Free hotel or airport delivery and pickup
Flexible, personal service from family-owned businesses
Good vehicle condition and straightforward terms

Worth knowing

Smaller fleets, so book early for peak season
You'll need to arrange pickup times (not 24/7 like airport counters)
Insurance and deposit policies vary — ask upfront

Best for: Budget-conscious travelers who want a full week of driving freedom without paying premium rates

Aruba Road Runner Tours & RentalsReal Deal Car Rental & ToursTop Drive

International brands at the airport

Sixt and other major chains have desks right at Queen Beatrix Airport. You pick up on arrival, drop off before your flight, and get the predictability of a known brand. Expect to pay more, but the convenience is real.

Why you'll love it

Immediate pickup at the airport — no waiting for a shuttle or delivery
Familiar booking systems and loyalty programs
Clear insurance options (Sixt's supplemental liability is about $43)
24/7 return if you have an early flight

Worth knowing

Higher base rates than local agencies
Airport locations can mean longer lines during peak arrivals
Less personal service and flexibility

Best for: Travelers who value convenience, predictability, and don't mind paying extra for a familiar name

Sixt

Skip the car: taxis, buses, and the Aruba Local Taxi app

Taxis use government-regulated fixed rates, wait outside the airport and major hotels, and many drivers take cards or WhatsApp for future bookings. Buses are cheap and reliable for beach hops. For a resort-focused week, this can actually cost less than a rental plus gas and parking.

Why you'll love it

No driving stress, parking hassles, or navigation
Fixed, regulated taxi fares — transparent pricing
Buses are frequent and inexpensive for beach routes
Some taxis accept cards; arrange return rides via WhatsApp
Can be cheaper than a week-long rental if you're staying put

Worth knowing

Less freedom to explore on a whim
Taxis add up if you're making multiple daily trips
Limited evening options (fewer buses, taxis from hotels only)
Carry small-denomination cash — not every taxi takes cards

Best for: Resort guests staying on Palm Beach who plan to walk, lounge, and make occasional restaurant or beach trips

Compare live rental prices across agencies — including the local ones.

Compare rental prices →

Official resource

Taking taxis? Check the government fare site first.

Aruba taxis don't use meters — fares are fixed by law, and taxi.aw is the government's official fare calculator (every licensed cab displays its QR code). Minimum fare is $10, with a $5 surcharge on Sundays, holidays, and 11pm–7am. You can also file fare complaints there.

Open taxi.aw →

Before you book

Video the car before you leave the lot — document every scratch, dent, and tire condition to avoid disputes when you return.
Ask about cash discounts. Some local agencies knock a few bucks off the daily rate if you pay in cash instead of card.
Top Drive's $300 deposit is common among local agencies — it covers fuel or security and comes back after inspection. Clarify upfront whether your insurance affects how much you get back if there's damage.
If you rent, get supplemental liability insurance (Sixt charges about $43). Your credit card may cover collision, but liability protection is worth it.
4x4s are required for Arikok National Park's unpaved roads. Real Deal Car Rental & Tours and others offer them — confirm your vehicle is park-approved if that's your plan.
Most rental agencies deliver to your hotel or the airport. Airport pickup saves the cost of a taxi in, but hotel delivery is more relaxed if you don't need the car immediately.
Parking is free at most beaches and attractions — one less thing to budget for.
Hybrid strategy: rent for 2–3 days mid-trip to hit Baby Beach, Arikok, and grocery runs, then go car-free the rest of the week. Long-term visitors swear by this approach.

Travelers also asked

How early should I get to the airport for a U.S.-bound flight?Do I need to rent a car in Aruba?What currency does Aruba use? Should I bring cash or cards?What's driving like in Aruba?What is the ED Card and when do I need to fill it out?How can large groups arrange private drivers or van transportation?What is the best way to get from the airport to hotels?What car rental companies and vehicle options are available for visitors?

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