Aruba Transportation Guide – How to Get Around One Happy Island
Aruba may be a relatively small island, but there are many ways to move between its beaches, national park, viewpoints and neighbourhoods. Distances are short, roads are mostly in good condition and routes are simple, which makes getting around less stressful than in big cities. The key is choosing the transport option that fits your style of travel – whether that means relying on public buses, taking taxis and shuttles, or renting a car to explore at your own pace.
This Aruba Transportation Guide explains the main ways to get around the island, from airport transfers and buses to driving, taxis and tours. It is designed to complement our main Aruba Travel Guide as well as detailed pages such as Aruba Airport Guide, Aruba Beaches and Aruba Travel Tips.
Map of Aruba
Understanding the basic layout of Aruba makes it much easier to plan transport. The island is only 32 km long and around 10 km wide, with most resorts located along the sheltered west coast. The map above highlights Oranjestad, Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA), the Palm Beach and Eagle Beach hotel corridors and the main roads leading toward Arikok National Park and the island’s quieter eastern side.
For beach planning, distances and local tips, continue with the detailed sections below or explore our Aruba Beaches Guide.
Overview: Is It Easy to Get Around Aruba?
Compared with many larger Caribbean islands, Aruba is very manageable in terms of transport. The main hotel areas of Palm Beach and Eagle Beach sit along the west coast, a short drive from the capital Oranjestad and Queen Beatrix International Airport. Most resorts, beaches and major sights are linked by a small network of coastal and cross-island roads, so it rarely takes more than 30–40 minutes to cross the island by car.
You can comfortably stay in Aruba without renting a car if you are planning a classic beach holiday and are happy to use taxis, buses and a few organized tours. However, if you want to see Arikok National Park, the lighthouse, remote coves and viewpoints on your own schedule, a rental car – or a 4x4/UTV tour – will give you much more flexibility.
Airport Transfers: Getting from AUA to Your Hotel
All international flights arrive at Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA), just south of Oranjestad. From there it is a short ride to the hotel zones:
- Oranjestad: around 10–15 minutes by taxi in normal traffic.
- Eagle Beach: about 15–20 minutes along the west coast.
- Palm Beach: usually 20–25 minutes depending on your hotel.
You can choose between taxis, shared shuttles, private transfers and public buses. Taxis are the most convenient door-to-door option, while pre-booked shuttles and private transfers work well for families and groups. Public buses operated by Arubus are the cheapest but may involve a short walk with luggage.
For a detailed look at check-in, U.S. preclearance, airport facilities and transport options right outside the terminal, see our dedicated Aruba Airport Guide – Queen Beatrix International (AUA).
Renting a Car in Aruba
Renting a car is one of the most popular ways to get around Aruba, especially if you want to explore beaches and viewpoints beyond the main hotel strip. Several international and local car rental companies operate at the airport and around the resort areas, with vehicles ranging from compact cars to SUVs and jeeps.
Do you need a car in Aruba?
You do not need a car just to shuttle between your resort, nearby beaches and a few restaurants – taxis, buses and walking will be enough for many visitors. However, you should consider renting a car if:
- You want to visit Arikok National Park, Baby Beach, the lighthouse and natural bridges independently.
- You prefer to set your own schedule rather than joining group tours.
- You are comfortable driving on unfamiliar roads and roundabouts.
- You are staying for several days and want to see more than the main hotel strip.
Driving conditions and road layout
Driving in Aruba is generally straightforward. Traffic is right-hand, roads are mostly paved and distances are short. The main challenges are:
- Roundabouts: These are common around Oranjestad and the hotel zone – take your time and follow the markings.
- Signage: Major attractions are signposted, but not every junction is clearly marked, so offline maps are useful.
- Unpaved roads: Access to some remote beaches and areas inside Arikok National Park may require a high-clearance vehicle or guided tour.
Before you drive, it helps to read the driving advice and safety notes in our Aruba Travel Tips and to check the basic facts about distances, time zones and local services in Aruba Fast Facts.
Parking and fuel
Parking is generally easy outside the busiest parts of Oranjestad. Most hotels and larger restaurants offer on-site or nearby spaces. In town, look for marked parking bays and pay attention to local signage about time limits or paid zones. Petrol stations are spread around the island; staff are familiar with rental cars and can advise on the right fuel type if you are unsure.
Taxis and Private Transfers
Taxis are widely used for short trips in Aruba and are a good choice if you want to avoid driving. Vehicles are usually modern and air-conditioned, and drivers are used to visitors who may not know the island well.
How taxi fares work
Taxi fares in Aruba are typically set by zone rather than by meter and are charged per car, not per person. There may be surcharges for late-night rides, extra luggage or public holidays. Before setting off, it is reasonable to confirm the approximate price to your destination so there are no surprises.
Taxis are particularly convenient for:
- Airport–hotel transfers when you are tired after a flight.
- Evening journeys to restaurants or nightlife spots.
- Short daytime trips when the sun is too strong for walking.
Pre-booked and private transfers
Many visitors arrange private transfers or shared shuttles for arrival and departure days. These services usually operate with minibuses or vans, sometimes bundled together with accommodation or tour packages. Private transfers cost more than taxis but offer the reassurance of a driver waiting for you with a sign and a reserved vehicle.
Public Buses in Aruba
Aruba’s public bus network, run by Arubus, is a budget-friendly option for getting around the main corridor between the airport, Oranjestad and the hotel strip. Buses are not as flexible as a car or taxi, but they can be a good way to reduce costs, especially if you are staying near a main stop.
Main routes and destinations
The primary bus routes connect:
- Airport and Oranjestad: for city visits and onward routes.
- Oranjestad and Eagle Beach / Palm Beach: the main hotel corridor along the west coast.
- Some residential and local neighbourhoods beyond the tourist areas.
Timetables may vary by day and season, and buses can be busier at commuting times. If you are planning to rely on buses, it is a good idea to check schedules locally on arrival and to allow extra time for connections.
Tickets and using the bus
Tickets are typically purchased directly from the driver or at bus stations. You may be able to buy single rides or day passes depending on the route. When boarding, have small notes or coins ready and let the driver know where you want to get off if you are unsure of the stop name.
Buses are most suitable for:
- Travellers staying near the main road between Oranjestad and the hotel areas.
- Those who are happy to walk a little between the bus stop and their final destination.
- Visitors who want to keep transport costs as low as possible.
Tours, Shuttles and Day Trips
If you prefer not to drive on your holiday, organized tours and day trips are an excellent way to see more of Aruba. Many excursions include hotel pickup and drop-off, which simplifies logistics.
Popular tour types
- 4x4 and UTV tours: Explore Arikok National Park, desert landscapes, natural bridges and rougher coastal areas that are not suitable for regular cars.
- Island highlight tours: Half-day or full-day trips that cover lighthouses, chapels, viewpoints and photo stops.
- Boat and snorkelling tours: Cruises along the coast, with transport to and from the marina included.
- Evening tours: Sunset cruises or night-time excursions that combine scenery with dining or entertainment.
Tours are especially useful if you want to visit places featured in our Aruba Things to Do and Aruba Beaches guides but do not feel comfortable renting a car or driving off-road.
Walking, Cycling and Alternative Ways to Move Around
Within the main resort areas, walking is often the simplest way to get from hotels to nearby restaurants, bars and shops. Sidewalks are common along the central stretches of Palm Beach and Eagle Beach, and many beachfront properties are connected by paths and promenades.
Bicycles and e-bikes are available from some rental outlets and hotels. They can be a pleasant way to move between beaches in the cooler parts of the day, but heat and sun exposure make midday cycling less comfortable. Always carry water, sunscreen and a hat if you are planning to walk or cycle for more than a short distance.
Some visitors also use hotel shuttles, small local vans and resort-based transport to move within larger properties or between partner hotels. These options vary by accommodation, so check the details in advance when you are choosing where to stay – our accommodation advice in the main Aruba Travel Guide provides an overview of the main hotel zones and their accessibility.
Safety, Accessibility and Practical Tips
Aruba is generally considered one of the safer Caribbean destinations, and this extends to its roads and public transport. However, it is still wise to use common sense when moving around.
- Seatbelts: Always wear seatbelts in cars and taxis, and ensure children have appropriate seating where possible.
- Night-time travel: Use taxis or pre-arranged transfers after dark, especially if you are unfamiliar with the roads.
- Heat and hydration: Keep water with you, particularly when waiting for buses or walking along exposed stretches of road.
- Road awareness: Look out for scooters, cyclists and pedestrians, especially around resort entrances and beach access points.
Travellers with reduced mobility should speak to their airline, hotel and transfer provider in advance to ensure suitable assistance and vehicle types are available. Many resorts offer ramps, lifts and accessible rooms, while some tour operators provide adapted vehicles or private tour options on request.
Choosing the Best Transport Option for Your Trip
The best way to get around Aruba depends on your priorities. If you plan to spend most of your time by the pool or on nearby sands, combining airport transfers, short taxi rides and the occasional bus may be all you need. If you are curious about hidden coves, north-coast viewpoints and inland landscapes, a rental car or guided 4x4 tour will open up far more of the island.
When planning your itinerary, think about how transport fits with other aspects of your trip – dining reservations, nightlife, beach days and excursions. Our Aruba Food & Drinks and Nightlife in Aruba guides can help you decide which areas you are most likely to visit after dark, while the Aruba Things to Do guide highlights excursions and activities that may include hotel pickup.
By understanding how Aruba’s transport options fit together – from airport arrivals and driving distances to bus routes and taxi zones – you can design a trip that feels relaxed, efficient and matched to your style of travel.
