Aruba

Cost of living

What a month costs

Aruba imports almost everything, so groceries, dining, rent, cars and power all run well above US mainland levels. Budget hard for utilities and air conditioning.

The scores

How it rates for a moving family

See and do

Top 10 in Oranjestad

1. Fort Zoutman and Willem III TowerThe oldest structure on the island and home to the Historical Museum of Aruba, in the heart of town.
2. WilhelminastraatA photogenic strip of restored Dutch colonial townhouses in bold Caribbean colors.
3. Renaissance MarketplaceWaterfront dining and shopping complex along the marina, lively day and night.
4. Renaissance IslandPrivate island reached by resort boat, famous for the flamingos on Flamingo Beach.
5. Queen Wilhelmina ParkGreen harbour-side park with tropical plants and a statue of the Dutch queen.
6. L.G. Smith Boulevard waterfrontThe main seaside promenade linking the cruise terminal, marina and downtown.
7. Archaeological Museum of ArubaRestored downtown building tracing the island's indigenous Caquetio history.
8. Cosecha ArubaGovernment craft center showcasing authentic locally made goods and art.
9. Aruba Aloe Factory and MuseumWorking aloe plant, museum and shop just outside town in Hato, a century-old island industry.
10. Surfside BeachThe closest swimmable beach to downtown, next to the airport and easy after work.

Where to go

Weekend escapes

1. Arikok National ParkRugged east coast covering nearly a fifth of the island, with the Conchi natural pool, caves and desert trails.
2. San NicolasThe old refinery town, now a street-art capital and the beating heart of Aruba Carnival.
3. Baby BeachShallow, calm lagoon at the southern tip near Seroe Colorado, ideal for young kids and easy snorkeling.
4. California LighthouseNorthwest headland with sweeping dune views, sunset crowds and the nearby Alto Vista chapel.
5. CuracaoA short hop by plane to Aruba's larger sister island for a full change of scene and a UNESCO old town.

Coffee

Best cafes

1. The PaddockLong-running Dutch waterfront eetcafe on L.G. Smith Boulevard, good for coffee and a harbour view.
2. Cafe the PlazaCasual coffee and drinks spot in Renaissance Marketplace by the marina.
3. Huchada BakeryBeloved local bakery for fresh pastries, bread and a quick coffee.

Restaurants

Where to eat

1. L.G. Smith's Steak and Chop HousePolished steakhouse inside the Renaissance with harbour views.
2. Pinchos Grill and BarRomantic grill built on a small pier over the water off L.G. Smith Boulevard.
3. DriftwoodDowntown institution on Klipstraat serving the day's fresh catch, often reeled in by the owner.
4. Que Pasa?Colorful art-filled bistro on Wilhelminastraat with a broad international menu.
5. Yemanja Woodfired GrillWood-fire cooking in a restored townhouse on Wilhelminastraat.
6. Cuba's Cookin'Cuban food, mojitos and live music in Renaissance Marketplace.
7. GostosoWarm Aruban and Portuguese kitchen just outside the center, a local favorite.

Morning

Best breakfast

1. The Dutch PancakehouseSweet and savory Dutch pancakes in Renaissance Marketplace, a family staple.
2. The PaddockFull breakfasts and strong coffee on the downtown waterfront.
3. Huchada BakeryEarly pastries, breads and Aruban morning treats to grab and go.
4. Cafe the PlazaEasy morning coffee and light bites by the marina.