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Aruba from Curaçao

Aruba from Curaçao

Curaçao's western neighbour is a short hop away: big resort beaches, a desert national park and a very different vibe.

Photo: SIryn, CC BY-SA 4.0
  • DistanceNext island west, well under an hour by air
  • Getting thereShort flight (no scheduled ferry)
  • CurrencyAruban florin (AWG); US dollars widely used
  • EntryOnline ED card + US$20 sustainability fee

Aruba is the A in the ABC islands and the closest big neighbour to the west. Like Curaçao it is a constituent country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands, with its own government and currency. It makes a good add-on for a few nights, or a contrast if you are still choosing which island to visit: see Aruba, Bonaire or Curaçao?

How to get there from Curaçao

There is no scheduled passenger ferry between the islands, so you fly. In 2026 the Curaçao–Aruba route is served by regional airlines including Divi Divi Air (several flights a day on small Twin Otter and Islander aircraft), Z Air (formerly EZ Air) and Winair, with seasonal flights by Arajet at times. Flight time is well under an hour. Small planes mean strict baggage weight limits, so check your allowance. Compare times and fares on Trip.com or Omio, and book directly with the airline if you need flexible changes.

Good to know: Everyone entering Aruba must complete the online ED card (edcardaruba.aw) within the week before arrival. Most air visitors aged 8+ also pay a US$20 sustainability fee during that process. Use the official site only.

What's different from Curaçao

  • Beaches: Aruba's west coast has long, wide sandy beaches (Eagle Beach, Palm Beach) rather than Curaçao's small coves.
  • Development: Palm Beach is a strip of high-rise resorts and casinos; Curaçao feels more local and spread out.
  • Landscape: flatter and drier, with constant trade winds, great for kitesurfing and windsurfing.
  • Money: the Aruban florin, though US dollars are accepted almost everywhere.

Best of Aruba in a few days

  • Eagle Beach: wide white sand and the famous fofoti trees.
  • Arikok National Park: desert hills, caves with petroglyphs and a rugged windward coast; the Natural Pool is reached by 4x4 or on foot.
  • Oranjestad: a compact capital with colourful Dutch-Caribbean buildings and a free streetcar.
  • Baby Beach in the south for calm, shallow water, and the California Lighthouse at the northwest tip for sunset.

A guided island tour is an efficient way to see Arikok and the north coast without a 4x4: see Aruba tours. For a few nights, compare Aruba hotels.

Getting around: buses link Oranjestad with the hotel areas, but a rental car or jeep gives you freedom for the south and Arikok's paved roads.

Back to Curaçao

Planning both islands? Our ABC island-hopping guide covers routes and timing. On Curaçao, don't miss Willemstad and the coves of Westpunt, things Aruba doesn't quite have.

Tours: Aruba from Curaçao

Compare guided trips, transfers and tickets.

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Frequently asked questions

Is there a ferry from Curaçao to Aruba?

No scheduled passenger ferry runs between the islands; flying is the practical option.

Can I do Aruba as a day trip from Curaçao?

It's possible with early and late flights, but with check-in, the ED card and island distances, one or two nights is far more relaxed.

Do I need a passport for Aruba?

Yes, bring a valid passport. Check your nationality's specific rules and complete the ED card before you fly.

Aruba from Curaçao
Photo: Coolcaesar, CC BY 4.0

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