Whether you’re staying in a vacation villa, a beach condo, or just want to stock up on some snacks and drinks for the beach, knowing where to shop in Aruba is key to making your stay even more comfortable. Lucky for you, Aruba has a great selection of supermarkets catering to different tastes and needs. From American-style favorites to European specialties, and local neighborhood stores for quick pick-ups, here’s your guide to the best supermarkets on the island.
1. Ling & Sons: Your Go-To American-Style Supermarket
If you’re looking for a supermarket that feels familiar, Ling & Sons is the place to be. Known as Aruba’s premier American-style supermarket, it has everything you’d expect from a well-stocked grocery store back home. With a wide selection of fresh produce, meat, dairy, and even hard-to-find American brands, Ling & Sons is perfect for anyone who craves the comforts of home while on vacation.
Located conveniently near the tourist areas, this supermarket has a great deli, bakery, and even an in-house pharmacy. Whether you’re looking for fresh fruits for your morning smoothie, ingredients for a home-cooked meal, or snacks to keep you fueled for your island adventures, Ling & Sons has it all. Bonus: they offer a variety of gluten-free, organic, and international products, so there’s something for everyone, no matter your dietary needs.
Pro tip: If you’re staying in a villa or Airbnb and want to do a big grocery run for the week, Ling & Sons is a great first stop for stocking up on all your essentials.
2. SuperFood: European Flavors and More
For those who are after a more European shopping experience, SuperFood is the supermarket for you. Located just outside the high-rise hotel area, SuperFood offers a variety of European imports, including Dutch cheeses, cold cuts, pastries, and specialty items that are hard to find elsewhere.
SuperFood is especially popular with visitors from Europe, but don’t worry, it has plenty of options for everyone. You’ll find fresh, high-quality meats, seafood, and even a wide array of wines. The bakery section is a dream, with freshly baked bread and pastries to start your day off right.
In addition to groceries, SuperFood has a large selection of household goods, a liquor store, and even a health and beauty section. It’s truly a one-stop-shop for all your vacation needs.
Pro tip: SuperFood has a fantastic fresh produce section with lots of variety – great for anyone looking to cook up fresh meals in their accommodation or enjoy healthy snacks on the go.
3. Local Chinese-Ran Stores: Convenient and Full of Surprises
Now, if you’re looking for convenience and quick pick-ups, Aruba has a treasure trove of small, Chinese-owned neighborhood stores scattered across the island. These shops, often called “Mini Markets,” are perfect for grabbing last-minute essentials or just popping in for a cold drink after a day of exploring.
These stores typically carry a bit of everything – from snacks and sodas to basic pantry items, cleaning supplies, and even alcohol. They’re known for being well-stocked, open late, and having super friendly owners who are happy to help. You can often find products from all over the world, so don’t be surprised if you spot some interesting, hard-to-find items on the shelves.
The best part? These local stores are usually located within walking distance from residential areas or hotels, making them an ultra-convenient option for those times when you need to pick up something quick but don’t feel like heading to the larger supermarkets.
Pro tip: If you’re in a pinch and need something fast, just pop into one of these stores – you’ll find what you need in no time, and probably discover some fun new snacks to try!
4. PriceSmart: For Bulk Shoppers and Big Families
If you’re familiar with Costco or Sam’s Club back home, you’ll feel right at home at PriceSmart. Located on the outskirts of Oranjestad, PriceSmart is Aruba’s version of a wholesale club, offering bulk products and great deals on groceries, household items, electronics, and more.
While it’s a bit out of the way compared to the other supermarkets, it’s worth the trip if you’re traveling with a large group or staying on the island for an extended period. You can stock up on bulk-sized items like bottled water, snacks, and even toiletries at great prices.
Pro tip: PriceSmart requires a membership, so if you plan to shop here, make sure to sign up in advance or purchase a day pass at the store.
5. Do It Center: More Than Just a Hardware Store
Here’s a fun surprise – Do It Center, known mainly as a hardware store, also has a surprisingly large supermarket section! Located in Oranjestad, it’s perfect for when you need to grab some groceries along with any household or hardware supplies. Their selection of food items, including fresh produce, dairy, and pantry essentials, makes it a convenient one-stop shop.
While it’s not as big as Ling & Sons or SuperFood in terms of grocery offerings, it’s a great option if you’re already there picking up other supplies. Plus, they often have great deals and promotions on groceries, making it a budget-friendly choice.
The Bottom Line: Plenty of Options for Every Need
Aruba offers a fantastic variety of supermarkets to suit every traveler’s needs, whether you’re looking for American favorites, European delicacies, or just a quick stop at a local mini-market. Ling & Sons is perfect for a familiar shopping experience, SuperFood brings the best of Europe to your table, and the friendly neighborhood Chinese-owned stores are great for convenience.
So, wherever you’re staying on the island, you’ll never be far from everything you need to keep your vacation delicious, convenient, and worry-free. Happy shopping!