Aruba is a laid-back paradise where you can relax and enjoy the beautiful beaches, but like anywhere, there are some unspoken rules and cultural norms you should keep in mind. To make sure you have the best time—and show respect for the locals and the island itself—here are 16 things you should NEVER do in Aruba.
Never Ignore the Beach Flags
Those colorful flags aren’t just decoration! Red means dangerous conditions, yellow is for caution, green means all clear, and purple means dangerous marine life, such as jellyfish or sharks. Ignoring these could put you in harm’s way!
Don’t Take Coral or Seashells as Souvenirs
Our marine ecosystem is delicate. Leave the beach as beautiful as you found it! Instead, why not take home some local art or Aruba Aloe products?
Don’t Forget to Greet People
In Aruba, friendliness is part of the culture, and locals appreciate a warm greeting. When you enter a shop, restaurant, or even pass someone on the street, a simple “Hello” or “Bon dia” (Good morning in Papiamento) goes a long way. Ignoring people or acting cold can come off as rude, so make sure to embrace Aruba’s friendly vibes and greet everyone with a smile.
Never Litter (Especially on the Beach!)
Aruba takes pride in its pristine beaches. Always use trash bins and never leave anything behind. Mother Nature (and fellow beachgoers) will thank you!
Don’t Reserve Beach Chairs with Towels
This one’s for the beach lovers! In Aruba, it’s considered rude to claim a beach chair early in the morning by throwing a towel or personal item on it and then leaving for hours. This behavior frustrates other visitors, and some resorts have even cracked down on it. Instead, wait until you’re ready to enjoy the beach before taking a spot, and be mindful of others looking to relax, too.
Don’t Expect Everyone to Speak English
While many Arubans speak excellent English, it’s polite to learn a few basic phrases in Papiamento or Dutch. “Bon dia” (good day) and “danki” (thank you) go a long way!
Never Disturb the Wildlife
Those iguanas might look cuddly, but they’re wild animals. Admire from afar and never feed the local fauna – it disrupts their natural behaviors.
Don’t Forget to Cover Up Off the Beach
Aruba is pretty relaxed, but walking around town in just your swimwear is a no-no. Throw on a cover-up when you leave the beach!
Don’t Ignore Sun Safety
Aruba’s sunshine is one of its biggest attractions, but that means you need to be careful. Never forget to wear sunscreen—preferably reef-safe—and reapply it regularly, especially after swimming. A hat and sunglasses are also must-haves for protecting your skin and eyes. And remember to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
Never Drink and Drive
This should go without saying, but it’s especially important here. Aruba has strict DUI laws. Use a taxi or let Aruba Butler arrange safe transportation for you!
Don’t Ignore Local Customs During Holidays
If you’re visiting during Carnival or other local celebrations, be respectful of traditions. It’s not just a party – it’s an important part of Aruban culture.
Don’t Drive Off-Road Without Permission
Aruba’s wild landscapes, like Arikok National Park, are perfect for exploring, but don’t go off-roading outside of designated areas without proper permissions. This can damage fragile ecosystems and might get you in trouble with the authorities. Stick to the marked paths, or better yet, take an official tour to discover the best hidden spots with a guide who knows the area.
Never Touch or Step on Coral While Snorkeling
Our coral reefs are living ecosystems. Touching or stepping on them can cause serious damage. Look, but don’t touch!
Don’t Smoke on the Beach
As of 2019, smoking is banned on Aruba’s beaches. This includes e-cigarettes and vapes. Keep our beaches clean and smoke-free!
Never Assume It’s Okay to Take Photos of People Without Permission
Arubans are friendly, but it’s always polite to ask before snapping a photo of locals, especially in more rural areas.
Don’t Leave Without Trying Local Cuisine
It can be easy to stick to what’s familiar, but don’t miss out on trying local Aruban cuisine! Staples like keshi yena (stuffed cheese) and pastechi (savory pastries) are delicious, and exploring the island’s food scene is one of the best ways to connect with the culture. You’ll find everything from local street food to high-end dining with Caribbean flair, so dive in and savor the flavors of Aruba! Check out our recommendations!
Remember, being a respectful visitor is all about being mindful and considerate. By avoiding these faux pas, you’ll not only have a better vacation, but you’ll also help preserve the beauty and culture of Aruba for future visitors.