North America > 🇦🇼 Aruba
The city by city Car or no Car advice for Aruba can be broken down into three similar questions - do you need a car in Aruba ; is it worth it (based on costs), and ultimately - should you rent one? (a balance of the two).🚆 🚌⛴️ Do we need to rent a car in Aruba ?
These scores are based on the quality of public transport and other travel options. If these are good enough to see the main points of interest, then you don’t need to rent a car.
💰💶💳 Is it worth hiring a car in Aruba ?
These scores reflect the practical factors that affect whether renting a car is convenient, good value, and stress-free.
🏙️ Main Cities in Aruba
| CITY | IATA | Score |
|---|
🏝️ Should You Rent a Car in Aruba? 🚗🌞
Aruba is a compact Caribbean island with gorgeous beaches, clear waters, and year-round sunshine. You can enjoy a simple resort stay or go full explorer mode. The answer to should you rent a car in Aruba? depends on what kind of trip you want.
🌴 When You Don’t Need a Car
You can enjoy Aruba without a car if you plan to stay near your resort, take guided tours, or relax in one area.
✅ No-Car Friendly Scenarios
| Situation | Why You Don’t Need a Car | Transport Options |
|---|---|---|
| Staying in Palm or Eagle Beach | Everything sits within walking reach | Walk, taxi, shuttle |
| Booking tours and excursions | Tours include pick-up service | Tour bus or jeep tour |
| Relaxing at all-inclusive resorts | Food, drinks, and beaches are on-site | Resort shuttle |
| Taking a short vacation | Easy to move without a car | Taxi |
➡ Taxis use fixed rates, so you won’t face surprises.
🚗 When a Car Makes the Trip Better
A rental car gives you freedom to explore Aruba beyond the hotel zone. You can choose when and where you go without waiting for a taxi or group tour.
✅ Reasons to Rent a Car
| Benefit | What You Can Do |
|---|---|
| Explore at your pace | Visit multiple beaches in one day |
| Reach remote spots | Drive to Baby Beach or Arikok National Park |
| Discover local food | Stop at roadside grills and beach bars |
| Chase sunsets | Head to California Lighthouse in the evening |
➡ Drivers can access hidden coves, natural pools, and off-road terrain with a 4×4.
🚦 What Driving in Aruba Is Like
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Drive on the right-hand side
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Roads stay well-maintained along the resort coast
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A 4×4 handles national park terrain best
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Parking is free in most locations
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Traffic stays calm compared to many Caribbean islands
🏁 Final Recommendation
| Traveller Type | Car Needed? | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Resort-focused guest | ❌ No | Everything is on-site or walkable |
| Beach hopper | ✅ Yes | Total flexibility |
| Nature and adventure lover | ✅ Yes | Best access to Arikok and remote beaches |
| Cruise visitor | ❌ No | Short stay makes taxis easier |
| Family traveller | ✅ Optional | Car adds convenience |
✨ Final Takeaway
So, should you rent a car in Aruba?
👉 If you want freedom to beach hop, explore untouched nature, and find local hotspots, then yes — renting a car is the best way to experience Aruba fully.
👉 If your plan is to relax at your resort, enjoy organised tours, and stay local, you can have a great trip without ever driving.
