9 Fun Facts about Aruba

Aruba is a Caribbean island in the Lesser Antilles and Leeward Antilles Island groups. Known for its consistent warm weather and clear beaches, Aruba has an average annual temperature of 82°F (28°C). Visitors can use US dollars alongside the official currency, the Aruban florin.

In this article, you’ll find 9 fun facts about Aruba that might inspire your next trip to Oranjestad, the capital city.

>> Have a look at the travel resources you need before taking off to Aruba

1. Aruba has a dry climate and constant trade winds year-round

Aruba is dry with an average rainfall of 15 inches annually (381mm). The island lies outside the hurricane belt which minimizes the risk of hurricanes.

Aruba has constant trade winds blowing across the island. These steady winds are appreciated by windsurfers who visit Aruba to enjoy these conditions.

>> Costa Rica is also known for its great surfing service

2. Aruba actively protects wildlife and ecosystems

Aruba safeguards nesting areas for sea turtles, which use the island’s pristine beaches from March to November. Conservation groups and Arikok National Park rangers guide hatchlings safely to the sea.

Efforts also target controlling invasive species, such as lionfish and boa constrictors, while eco-friendly initiatives like reducing single-use plastic bags helps preserve Aruba’s environment.

>> Want to help protect wildlife and ecosystems? Check out our Turtle Conservation Program.

3. Aruba speaks four languages and celebrates Carnival every year

Arubans speak Dutch, Spanish, English, and Papiamento, a creole language blending Portuguese, African, Dutch, and Spanish influences. Dutch and Papiamento are Aruba’s official languages. Papiamento is widely spoken by Aruba’s population reflecting the island’s colonial past and status within the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

Each February, the island celebrates Carnival with parades, music, dances, and beauty pageants. The happy island comes alive as locals and tourists alike enjoy costumes, dance, food and fare.

4. Aruba’s history reflects the gold, oil and aloe vera industries

Aruba’s gold rush in the 19th century left behind landmarks like the Bushiribana Gold Mill, a historic site that still stands today.

During World War II, the Lago Oil Refinery in Aruba was one of the largest in the world and played a key role in the Allied war efforts. Aloe vera has also shaped the island’s history, with Aruba Aloe remaining a key brand and symbol of its agricultural heritage.

5. Aruba Is One of Four Countries That Make Up the Kingdom of the Netherlands

Aruba is one of the four countries within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Most Arubans are proud of this connection and celebrate their cultural ties with the Netherlands.

Where is Aruba located?

Aruba is located in the Southern Caribbean Sea, 18 miles north off the Venezuelan peninsula of Paraguaná, as part of the Lesser Antilles and the Leeward Antilles Island groups.

Aruba is part of the ABC islands, along with with Bonaire and Curaçao, off the coast of Venezuela in the Southern Caribbean. It is one of the most accessible Caribbean islands for travelers. Known for its Dutch influences, sunny climate and ease of access, Aruba is a must visit for many.

6. Aruba’s Eagle Beach ranks among the best, but Palm Beach offers luxury and charm

Eagle Beach in Aruba is celebrated as the second-best beach in the world (TripAdvisor), famed for pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. Palm Beach is its own tropical paradise, two miles of white sand and turquoise waters lined with luxury resorts that cater to travelers seeking an upscale Caribbean Island experience.

7. Arikok National Park protects 20% of Aruba’s wild landscape

Arikok National Park covers nearly a fifth of Aruba. Visitors can explore the park’s wild side through guided tours of landmarks like Fontein Cave, rugged coastlines, volcanic rock formations, and the secluded Natural Pool (Conchi), a swimming area shielded from the open sea by volcanic rocks.

Arikok National Park

Address: San Fuego 70, Santa Cruz, Aruba

Hours: Daily from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM

8. Aruba is home to the iconic Divi Divi and Fofoti trees, shaped by trade winds

Aruba’s Divi Divi and Fofoti trees always point southwest, the direction the wind blows. The bent but still standing trees are a symbol of the island’s resilience.

9. Aruba’s cuisine blends global influences

Aruban cuisine is a mélange of African, Dutch, Indonesian, Spanish, and South American flavors. Arubans love their signature dishes: keshi yena, funchi, pan bati, Dutch pancakes and pastechi.