Renting a car in Aruba opens up a realm of possibilities and freedom. The island is ripe for exploration, and having your own set of wheels means you’re not tied to public transport schedules or limited to touristy areas. With an Aruba car rental, you can seek out hidden beaches, dine at off-the-beaten-path restaurants, and even get to know locals in the less-traveled parts of the island.
The convenience, flexibility, and potential for discovery make renting a car in Aruba a brilliant idea. Keep reading for our best Aruba car rental tips, but first, here are our top picks:
Drive 4 Cheap Car Rental4.6(173)ArubaCloses 6 PM+297 565 0743“I rented a small car.”
Aruba Car Rental – Top Drive4.5(96)Noord, ArubaCloses 6 PM+297 587 1729“The car was good and everything went easy from the booking to the return.”
Mitoo Quality Cars Aruba4.9(32)Oranjestad, ArubaCloses 5:30 PM+297 594 7995“Car was reliable and the service was impeccable.”
YESS RENTAL CAR4.8(44)Oranjestad, ArubaOpen – Closes 11 PM+297 592 8809“5 stars for YESS car rentals!!”
SMART Rent a Car4.6(317)Oranjestad, ArubaCloses 5 PM+297 562 2220“Absolutely the BEST car rental experience we have had yet!!!”
Island Rides Car Rental4.9(67)Oranjestad, ArubaOpen 24 hours+297 739 5151“Perfect local car rental.”
Why Renting a Car in Aruba is a Good Idea
Renting a car in Aruba opens up a realm of possibilities and freedom. The island is ripe for exploration, and having your own set of wheels means you’re not tied to public transport schedules or limited to touristy areas. With an Aruba car rental, you can seek out hidden beaches, dine at off-the-beaten-path restaurants, and even get to know locals in the less-traveled parts of the island.
Aruba is a small island – you can drive the length of it in about an hour, but it’s packed full of fascinating sites. A rental car gives you the liberty to experience these attractions at your own pace. No rushing to catch the last bus or paying hefty cab fares. Simply put, the convenience, flexibility, and potential for discovery make renting a car in Aruba a brilliant idea.
- Freedom and flexibility: Renting a car in Aruba provides the freedom to explore the island at your own pace, without being restricted by public transportation schedules or limited to popular tourist areas.
- Off-the-beaten-path exploration: With a rental car, you can venture off the tourist trail and discover hidden beaches, local restaurants, and lesser-known parts of the island that are not easily accessible by public transportation.
- Time efficiency: Aruba may be small, but there are many fascinating sites and attractions to visit. Having a rental car allows you to efficiently navigate between destinations, maximizing your time and enabling you to see more during your stay.
- Convenience: Renting a car eliminates the need to rely on taxis or other forms of transportation. You have the convenience of having a vehicle readily available whenever you need it, whether it’s for a spontaneous beach trip or a late-night dinner outing.
- Interaction with locals: By exploring Aruba with a rental car, you have the opportunity to interact with locals and immerse yourself in the authentic culture of the island. You can discover local gems and receive recommendations from residents, enhancing your overall travel experience.
- Scenic drives: Aruba offers picturesque landscapes and scenic routes that are best experienced by car. Renting a vehicle allows you to take in the stunning coastal views, drive along rugged coastlines, and enjoy the island’s natural beauty at your own leisure.
Understanding Aruba’s Driving Laws and Regulations
Just like any other country, Aruba has its own set of driving laws and regulations that every motorist, local or visitor, must adhere to. Aruba drives on the right side of the road, and seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants. Keep in mind that it’s forbidden to use a mobile phone while driving unless you have a hands-free system.
Understanding the local road signs is crucial for a stress-free journey. Aruba’s signs are mostly international, but some are in Dutch or Papiamento, the local language. Speed limits range from 30km/h in urban areas to 80km/h on highways. Remember, drinking and driving is strictly prohibited, and the blood alcohol limit is 0.05%.
Choosing the Right Vehicle for Aruba’s Terrain
Aruba’s terrain varies greatly, from paved city roads to off-the-beaten-path trails. Compact cars are perfect for city drives, offering ease of navigation and parking. However, if you’re looking to explore Arikok National Park or access secluded beaches like Dos Playa, a 4×4 is a must.
The size of your party also matters. Solo travelers or couples might be comfortable in smaller cars, but if you’re a family or a group, consider a larger vehicle for comfort and adequate luggage space. Keep in mind Aruba’s sunny weather – a car with good air conditioning can be a blessing.
- Compact cars: Ideal for city drives, easy navigation, and parking.
- Examples: Toyota Yaris, Hyundai Accent, Ford Fiesta.
- 4×4 vehicles: Necessary for exploring Arikok National Park and accessing secluded beaches.
- Examples: Jeep Wrangler, Toyota Land Cruiser, Ford Bronco.
- Smaller cars: Suitable for solo travelers or couples.
- Examples: Honda Fit, Volkswagen Polo, Mini Cooper.
- Larger vehicles: Recommended for families or groups.
- Examples: Toyota Highlander, Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Tahoe.
- Good air conditioning: Important in Aruba’s sunny weather.
- Examples: Volvo XC60, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, BMW 5 Series.
Best Car Rental Companies in Aruba
There are numerous car rental companies in Aruba, each offering unique perks. Top-tier international brands like Avis, Budget, and Hertz operate here, offering reliable service and a broad range of vehicles. However, don’t overlook local companies like Jay’s Car Rental or Amigo Rent A Car, which often provide competitive rates and personalized service.
Before making a choice, read reviews and compare prices. Each company’s fleet will also differ, so ensure they offer the type of vehicle you want. Lastly, confirm their operating hours – some have 24-hour services, which could be helpful for late arrivals or early departures.
Booking Process: Online vs. On-Site Car Rentals
Booking a car online in advance guarantees your preferred vehicle is ready when you arrive. It’s a straightforward process – select your dates, choose a car, and secure it with a deposit. Some companies offer discounts for early bookings. Plus, you can read the rental agreement at your leisure and understand the terms before committing.
Alternatively, you can rent a car on-site once you’re in Aruba. This allows for negotiation and possibly better deals, but availability might be an issue, especially in peak tourist season. However, if flexibility is a priority, this option gives you the freedom to rent a car only when you need it.
Essential Things to Know Before Renting a Car in Aruba
There are a few essentials to keep in mind before signing that rental agreement. First, check the company’s policy on fuel – do you need to return the car with a full tank, or pay for fuel upfront? Understand the insurance coverage and decide whether to use the provided coverage or your own.
Most companies require drivers to be over 25 and have a valid driver’s license. Some may also need an International Driving Permit (IDP). Be sure to check this beforehand to avoid disappointments. Lastly, inspect the car thoroughly for pre-existing damages and ensure they’re recorded to prevent disputes upon return.
- Fuel policy: Check if you need to return the car with a full tank or pay for fuel upfront.
- Insurance coverage: Understand the rental company’s insurance policy and decide whether to use their coverage or your own.
- Driver requirements: Most companies require drivers to be over 25 years old and have a valid driver’s license.
- International Driving Permit (IDP): Some companies may require an IDP in addition to your driver’s license. Check if it’s necessary beforehand.
- Pre-existing damages: Thoroughly inspect the car for any pre-existing damages before driving off. Make sure they are recorded to avoid disputes upon returning the vehicle.
- Rental agreement: Read the rental agreement carefully and ask questions about any unclear terms or conditions.
- Additional drivers: If you plan to have multiple drivers, inquire about any extra fees or requirements for adding additional drivers to the rental agreement.
- Road rules and regulations: Familiarize yourself with the local road rules and regulations in Aruba to ensure a safe and legal driving experience.
- Emergency contact information: Keep a copy of the rental company’s contact information and emergency numbers in case you encounter any issues or accidents during your rental period.
- Returning the car: Note the designated return location and make sure to return the vehicle on time to avoid any late fees or penalties.
Tips for Getting the Best Car Rental Deal in Aruba
To score the best car rental deal in Aruba, book early, particularly during high season. Early booking not only guarantees availability but often comes with discounted rates. Comparing prices across multiple rental agencies can also lead to savings.
Consider the total cost, not just the daily rate. Additional fees like insurance, extra driver charges, or GPS rentals can quickly inflate your bill. Finally, if you’re staying for more than a week, inquire about weekly rates – these are often cheaper than daily rates.
Driving in Aruba: Must-Visit Places
Aruba may be small, but it’s filled with breathtaking spots that your rental car can take you to.
Start with the vibrant capital, Oranjestad, where Dutch colonial architecture meets high-end shopping. Then, drive to Eagle Beach, hailed as one of the world’s best beaches, perfect for a relaxing day under the Aruban sun.
For a touch of adventure, drive your 4×4 to Arikok National Park. The park is home to stunning natural pools, caves, and diverse wildlife. Don’t miss out on the California Lighthouse either; it’s an ideal spot for panoramic views, especially at sunset.
- Oranjestad: The capital city of Aruba, known for its vibrant atmosphere, Dutch colonial architecture, and upscale shopping areas.
- Eagle Beach: One of the most famous and picturesque beaches in Aruba, renowned for its powdery white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and the iconic Divi Divi trees.
- Arikok National Park: A must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Drive your 4×4 through the park to discover hidden natural pools, dramatic rock formations, ancient cave drawings, and a diverse range of plant and animal species.
- California Lighthouse: Located on the northwestern tip of the island, this historic lighthouse offers breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline and the Caribbean Sea. It’s especially popular for enjoying stunning sunsets.
- Natural Bridge and Natural Pool: Although the original Natural Bridge collapsed, the area still offers beautiful coastal views. Additionally, the nearby Natural Pool, also known as “Conchi,” is a natural rock formation that creates a tranquil swimming spot amidst the crashing waves.
- Baby Beach: Situated on the southeastern tip of the island, Baby Beach is a shallow, calm lagoon with crystal-clear waters, making it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
- San Nicolas: Located on the southern coast, this vibrant town is known for its colorful street art, lively cultural events, and local charm. Drive through San Nicolas to immerse yourself in Aruba’s artistic and cultural scene.
- Boca Prins: A picturesque coastal area within Arikok National Park, offering stunning views of towering cliffs, crashing waves, and untouched sandy beaches. It’s a great spot for hiking, photography, and enjoying the raw beauty of Aruba’s coastline.
- Alto Vista Chapel: A small and peaceful chapel located on the island’s northern coast, surrounded by cacti and panoramic views. It is a serene and spiritual place with historical significance.
- Boca Catalina: A hidden gem for snorkeling and swimming, Boca Catalina is a calm bay with clear waters, colorful marine life, and vibrant coral reefs. It’s a great spot for snorkelers of all levels.
- Donkey Sanctuary Aruba: A unique sanctuary where you can drive to interact with and feed friendly donkeys. It’s a heartwarming experience, especially for animal lovers and families. Renting a car in Aruba allows you to explore these stunning locations at your own pace, creating unforgettable memories and discovering the island’s true beauty.
Dealing with Potential Issues: Breakdowns, Accidents, and Theft
No one wants to encounter problems on a trip, but it’s essential to be prepared. In case of a breakdown, your rental company should provide roadside assistance. Keep their contact details handy and understand the process before leaving the rental office.
In the unfortunate event of an accident, notify the rental company immediately and follow their instructions. You’ll likely need to file a police report, so it’s important to document the scene and get witness statements if possible. As for theft, always park in well-lit, populated areas and never leave valuables visible in the car.
Returning Your Rental Car: Do’s and Don’ts
As your Aruban adventure draws to a close, it’s time to return your rental car. Ensure it’s clean and refueled, if that’s the agreed condition. Return it on time to avoid extra charges, and always to the specified location. Some companies offer drop-off services at the airport or your hotel for an extra fee, adding to your convenience.
Before handing over the keys, conduct a final inspection with the staff and confirm all is in order. Make sure any deposits are refunded and all charges are correct. Finally, if you enjoyed their service, leaving a review can help future travelers and boost the company’s reputation.
Aruba Car Rental FAQ
Is It Worth Renting A Car In Aruba?
Renting a car in Aruba is worth considering due to the island’s compact size and the convenience it offers for exploring its various attractions. Having a rental car provides flexibility and independence to visit popular destinations like Eagle Beach, Arikok National Park, and the Natural Pool at your own pace. Additionally, public transportation options on the island are limited, making a car rental a practical choice for efficient transportation.
What Is The Most Reliable Car Rental In Aruba?
When it comes to reliable car rental services in Aruba, several reputable companies are available. Avis, Budget, and Hertz are among the well-established and trusted car rental providers on the island. These companies offer a wide range of vehicles, excellent customer service, and well-maintained cars, ensuring a reliable and hassle-free experience for visitors renting a car in Aruba.
Is It Cheaper To Rent A Car Or Taxi In Aruba?
Renting a car in Aruba is generally more cost-effective compared to relying solely on taxis. While taxi fares can add up quickly, especially for frequent travel between different attractions, a rental car allows for unlimited transportation at a fixed daily rate. Additionally, renting a car provides the flexibility to explore the island independently and make the most out of your time without having to worry about taxi availability or costs.