We’ve been to Aruba twice — once as a couple, and once with a group of 12. The first time, my husband and I stayed close to our hotel on the Palm Beach strip, took excursions with included transport, and didn’t bother renting a car. The second time, traveling with kids and a big group, we needed way more flexibility — so we rented a van.
And that’s really the key to deciding if you need a car in Aruba: your group size, where you’re staying, and what kind of trip you’re planning.
In this post, I’ll walk you through the pros and cons of renting a car in Aruba based on real experience, what to expect cost-wise, and how to decide if it’s worth it for your trip. I’ll also share a few smart tips around booking — including why I always use a travel credit card like the Amex Platinum for car rentals, plus how to find reliable cars through Discover Cars.
Do you need a car in Aruba? The Quick Version
PROS 🚗
- Total flexibility: Come and go on your own schedule, explore hidden beaches, and take spontaneous detours.
- Ideal for groups or families: Easier to coordinate outings, grocery runs, and day trips when traveling with several people.
- Access to local gems: Reach off-the-beaten-path spots that aren’t included in most excursions.
- Convenient for vacation rentals: Essential if you’re staying outside Palm or Eagle Beach where restaurants and shops aren’t walkable.
CONS ❌
- Added cost and deposits: Daily rates, insurance, and security holds (often around $500) can add up quickly.
- Limited large vehicles: Vans for big groups can be hard to find—always confirm seating and size before booking.
- Parking and navigation: Although roads are good, roundabouts are common and parking may be tighter near busy beaches.
- Not necessary for everyone: If you’re mostly relaxing at a resort or joining tours with transportation included, you can easily skip it.
When You Don’t Need a Car in Aruba
You can absolutely enjoy a trip to Aruba without renting a car — especially if you’re staying near Palm Beach or Eagle Beach. Most of the popular resorts and hotels (including one of our favorites—the Boardwalk Boutique Hotel) are located in these areas, and they’re walkable to restaurants, beach bars, and shopping.
In fact, Palm and Eagle Beach aren’t far from one another at all. On one slow afternoon, my husband and I actually walked between the two. It was a scenic, relaxed stroll. A reminder that you don’t always need four wheels to explore.
If your vacation is mostly about relaxing at your hotel, sipping cocktails by the pool, and joining guided excursions, you probably won’t need a car. Many tours include pickup and drop-off, so you won’t have to worry about directions, parking, or getting lost in roundabouts. You can check out some of my favorite unique things to do in Aruba; Many of them don’t require a rental car at all.
When a Car Does Make Sense
If you’re traveling with a big group, staying in a vacation rental, or planning to explore more than just your resort’s backyard, renting a car is definitely worth it.
On our second trip to Aruba, we traveled with a group of 12, and having a rental vehicle made everything easier. We were staying in a vacation rental, which meant we weren’t within walking distance of the main beaches or restaurants. Renting a car gave us the freedom to come and go as we pleased, take grocery runs, and explore different parts of the island on our own schedule, like De Palm Island, where you can find the famous Flamingo Beach.
There are also plenty of stunning beaches, local spots, and off-the-beaten-path gems you won’t reach without your own wheels. While excursions can get you to the highlights, a car lets you discover places that aren’t on the tour route.
One thing to note: if you’re traveling with a large group, vans that seat 12 can be tough to find in Aruba. Many of the larger vehicles only have 11 seats, so be sure to double-check with the rental company beforehand, especially if every seat matters.
Rental Costs, Deposits & What to Expect
Renting a car in Aruba is generally straightforward, but there are a few things you’ll want to budget for — and a few surprises to look out for.
On average, you can expect to pay around $42 USD per day for a standard car through Discover Cars, depending on the time of year and vehicle type. Larger vans or SUVs will, of course, cost more.
Keep in mind that prices fluctuate by season, especially around major holidays. So plan ahead and check my post about what to wear in Aruba to make sure you’re packing for the right weather.
What caught me off guard on our last trip was the $500 USD security deposit that was held on our credit card when we picked up the van. This wasn’t mentioned during the booking process, so it’s a good reminder to always ask in advance.
That’s why I always recommend paying with a travel credit card that includes car rental insurance — like the American Express Platinum.
Also, most rental companies offer car seats and booster seats, which is great now that my boys are older. I’ll typically use a rental-provided booster for short island trips. But when they were younger (especially as infants), I always brought my own. If you’re deciding what to bring, check out my post on CARES harness vs car seats.
👉 Interested in renting a car in Aruba? 👈
Check out Discover Cars to see your options.
What Driving in Aruba Is Actually Like
Driving in Aruba is pretty easy and straightforward, even if you’re not used to navigating in a foreign country. The roads are in good condition, and the signage is simple to follow (and thankfully, it’s also in English). One thing you’ll notice quickly? Aruba loves a roundabout.
Parking is generally easy, especially if you’re staying at a vacation rental or smaller hotel. When we stayed at the Courtyard Marriott Aruba, for example, parking was completely free.
Even though we had a rental van, there were a few times when part of our group opted to take a car service to a different location. If you’re considering transportation alternatives, keep in mind that Uber isn’t available in Aruba, but there are local drivers and services that can be arranged in advance.
Should You Rent a Car in Aruba? Quick Decision Checklist
- You probably don’t need a car if…
- You’re staying in Palm Beach or Eagle Beach
- Your hotel is walkable to restaurants, beaches, and activities
- You plan to join guided tours with included transportation (like one of Aruba’s best snorkeling tours)
- You’re only visiting for a short stay and want a low-key experience
- You’ll likely want a rental car if…
- You’re staying in a vacation rental away from the main hotel zones
- You’re traveling with a large group or kids and need flexibility
- You want to explore lesser-known beaches and local spots at your own pace
- You’re planning a longer stay or need to run errands
- You don’t want to rely on local drivers or car services
👉 Ready to book? 👈
Compare options at Discover Cars and
use a card like Amex Platinum to get coverage and protection
FAQ: Renting a Car in Aruba
No, most travelers — including U.S. citizens — can rent a car in Aruba with a valid driver’s license from their home country.
Yes. Roads are well-maintained, and driving is safe. Just be ready for lots of roundabouts!
Standard cars start around $42 per day. Use Discover Cars to find the best rate.
No. Parking is free and easy at most hotels and rentals, even in busy areas like Palm Beach.
Yes, most companies offer them. I rent them now that my boys are older, but we used to travel with our own travel car seats.
No, but you can book local car services instead of Ubering.
Yes — Aruba is considered one of the safest islands in the Caribbean for travelers. Petty theft can happen anywhere, but violent crime is rare, and locals are generally very welcoming.
Final Thoughts: Do You Really Need a Car in Aruba?
The truth is — it depends. If you’re planning to stay in the heart of the hotel zone and want a breezy, walkable vacation, a rental car probably isn’t necessary. But if you’re staying in a vacation rental, traveling with kids or a big group, or just want the flexibility to explore Aruba on your own schedule, a rental car can make your trip a lot easier.
After experiencing Aruba both with and without a rental, I can confidently say: the choice comes down to your location, group size, and how much independence you want while exploring the island.
If you decide to rent, I recommend booking through Discover Cars for easy comparison and solid customer support — and don’t forget to pay with a travel card like the Amex Platinum to make sure you’re covered on insurance.
