Discover the Ultimate Guide to the Best Time to Travel to Aruba

Are you dreaming of a tropical paradise with crystal-clear waters, powdery white beaches, and vibrant festivals? Look no further than Aruba, the stunning Caribbean island that offers the ultimate escape. But when is the best time to travel to Aruba to experience its beauty at its prime? From avoiding the crowds to enjoying ideal weather conditions, we've got you covered. In this article, we'll delve into the best times to visit Aruba by season, the perfect time for snorkeling, and even the most exciting events and festivals that grace the island throughout the year. So, get ready to plan your dream vacation because Aruba awaits you!

Best Times to Go

Some people argue that any time of the year is suitable for spending a week in Aruba or cruising there. However, based on my multiple visits to the island, I can assure you that "any time" is not the best time to go.

Aruba experiences average high temperatures in the 80s Fahrenheit for most months of the year, which can even reach the 90s during the summer.

During the winter months of January and February, water temperatures can be slightly cooler. I discovered this firsthand during a visit in February when very few people went into the water. We found that the water was too cool for swimming in the mornings and only tolerable in the afternoons.

Nevertheless, January and February also have the least number of clouds throughout the year, according to the Aruba Meteorological Service.

If you want to escape the cold winters of the north, you can visit during this time, but keep in mind that the water may not be as warm as it is later in the year. The advantage is that the risk of rain is very low.

The rain chart below illustrates the number of rainy days (shown in blue) and total rainfall in inches (shown in orange). It indicates that there is more rainfall in October through December. Therefore, the best months to visit for warm temperatures and low risk of rain are from March to September.

Overall Best Time to Visit Aruba

MasterPhoto/Shutterstock

The overall best time to visit Aruba is generally from January to mid-April. This span covers Aruba's peak tourism season, when the largest number of travelers come to enjoy the sunny skies, warm weather, and outdoor activities on the island.

During the peak season, you can expect very little rainfall, with less than 2 inches per month, and temperatures ranging from the mid 70s to upper 80s. These favorable weather conditions attract a large number of visitors to Aruba during this time.

To find slightly cheaper prices and better hotel availability, it is recommended to avoid booking in March, when Spring Breakers flock to the island. However, since the weather is perfect and January to mid-April is the most popular time to visit, it's inevitable that there will be crowds.

Prices tend to rise as hotels, resorts, and flights fill up with sun-seeking tourists. But if you're truly seeking the perfect Aruba vacation, visiting between January and mid-April is definitely the best time, even if it means paying a little extra.

The Best Times To Visit Aruba by Season [Month-by-Month]

Although Aruba has a rainy season and a dry season, the impact on the overall experience is not as significant as in other places like the Maldives, where the time of year strongly influences the experience.

One unique aspect of Aruba is that it is located below the Hurricane Belt, making intense storms and hurricanes extremely rare on the island. Aruba enjoys near-constant trade winds, and the risk of large storms is very low throughout the year.

Aruba is famous for its Divi Divi tree, which always points south thanks to the island's trade winds. Image Credit: Nataraj via Adobe Stock

Aruba in January

January is one of the most popular months to visit Aruba. With an average high temperature of 86 degrees and an average low temperature of 76 degrees, it's the perfect month to enjoy balmy Caribbean days. However, because it's a peak time to visit the island, prices may be higher, and it can be more crowded. The average rainfall for January is around 1.5 inches.

Hot Tip: The water temperature in Aruba is coolest from January through March, averaging 79 degrees. While this may be tolerable for some travelers, others may find it chilly. If you plan on snorkeling or scuba diving, wearing a wetsuit can help keep you warm.

Aruba in February

February is another popular month to visit Aruba. Temperatures are similar to January, ranging from 76 to 86 degrees, but the average rainfall drops to less than 1 inch.

Prices in February tend to be high, so expect to pay a premium for hotels, flights, and activities on the island.

Hot Tip: January and February are the main months of Aruba's Carnival season. This popular event features colorful parades, music, and lively festivities.

Aruba in March

March is typically the driest month in Aruba, with an average rainfall of less than 0.5 inches. Temperatures start to rise, averaging between 77 and 87 degrees.

One of Aruba's biggest celebrations, Flag Day, falls in March. The island comes alive with jubilant celebrations, fireworks, folkloric musical performances, traditional food, and the Baile di Cintas, a traditional ribbon dance.

Aruba's capital, Oranjestad, comes alive during the Flag Day celebration in March. Image Credit: falco via Pixabay

Aruba in April

April is considered shoulder season in Aruba, so it can be a great time to visit the island. Although temperatures can be warm, with highs near 89 degrees, the trade winds help keep visitors and residents comfortable and minimize bothersome bugs.

Aruba in May

The Soul Beach Music Festival, often regarded as one of the best festivals in the Caribbean, takes place in May. It brings concerts, nightclub events, and beach parties to the small island, featuring internationally-known performers.

Another major event in May is the Aruba Hi-Winds, which is the longest-running event in the Caribbean. Initially focused on windsurfing, it now includes other sports like kitesurfing and biking.

Air temperatures range from 80 to 90 degrees, and water temperatures begin to warm up, averaging 81 degrees in May. This period marks the start of the off-season, so travelers may find lower prices and smaller crowds.

Aruba's trade winds make it an ideal place for kitesurfing. Image Credit: Nataraj via Adobe Stock

Aruba in June

Every year on June 24th, Aruba celebrates Dera Gai (St. John's Day) with dancing, singing, storytelling, and other festivities. Fortunately, the tradition of burying a live rooster is no longer practiced.

June weather in Aruba is hot and dry, with temperatures ranging from 80 to 90 degrees and an average rainfall of around 0.75 inches. This can be great for beachgoers, but it may feel uncomfortably hot for those who prefer land activities.

Aruba in July

Aruba's weather in July is similar to June, with hot and dry conditions (although there may be a slightly higher chance of rain). While it is the off-season, July is a popular month to visit, especially for families with school-age children.

While Americans make up the majority of tourists in Aruba, you'll notice a bit more diversity in the summer, with more Europeans and South Americans visiting during this time.

Aruba in August

August is one of the hottest months in Aruba, with temperatures ranging from 80 to 91 degrees. Rainfall remains minimal, averaging only about 1 inch for the whole month. Water temperatures are around 82 degrees, making August an ideal time for activities like swimming and snorkeling.

It's always a good time for a beach day in Aruba. Image Credit: Nataraj via Adobe Stock

Aruba in September

September experiences the lightest trade winds of the year and is the hottest month, causing many travelers to avoid visiting during this time. In fact, September sees the fewest number of visitors compared to other months. Daytime temperatures can reach 91 degrees, with lows around 81 degrees.

With lower temperatures and fewer tourists, you may find great deals during September. It's also an ideal time for snorkeling, as the lighter winds result in calmer surface water conditions.

Hot Tip: August and September are the hottest months in Aruba.

Aruba in October

Temperatures in October are still hot, ranging from 80 to 90 degrees. However, rainfall starts to increase significantly, averaging about 3 inches for the month. While some people may avoid traveling to the Caribbean during this time due to the potential for hurricanes, Aruba lies just below the Hurricane Belt, greatly reducing the likelihood of strong storms.

October has the warmest water temperatures of the year, averaging 84 degrees.

Aruba in November

November is the wettest month of the year in Aruba, with an average rainfall of about 3.7 inches. Temperatures start to cool slightly but remain warm, with averages ranging from 78 degrees to 88 degrees.

Aruba in December

Mid-December marks the beginning of Aruba's high season, when prices and crowds begin to rise. Temperatures are pleasant, ranging from 77 to 87 degrees, but the island receives a little over 3 inches of rainfall on average throughout the month.

Bottom Line: If Aruba had a true rainy season, it would be from October to December. However, the amount of rain that falls during these months is still relatively low compared to other Caribbean islands.

Low Season: September to Mid-December

Best time for budget travelers

The most affordable time to visit Aruba is during the autumn season. The trade winds, which bring refreshing coolness to Aruba's desert landscape, fade in September.

You can find significant discounts on lodging, sometimes up to 50% less compared to winter highs, making Aruba relatively more affordable during this time. Additionally, September can be the best time for snorkeling in Aruba, as the lighter winds help create calm surface conditions.

While tour operators may reduce the frequency of outings during this time, you may benefit from smaller groups and shorter lines compared to peak season.

Top 7 beaches in Aruba

Shoulder Season: Mid-April to August

Best time for a diverse crowd

The shoulder season, which extends from late spring to late summer, offers a sweet spot for both savings and social life in Aruba. The warmer temperatures in the US and Canada result in fewer flights from North America.

During the shoulder season, you can expect a 20 to 30% dip in lodging rates and a more diverse crowd of visitors, particularly Europeans taking advantage of summer vacations and South Americans escaping their winter.

While US tourists still form a majority of the crowd during this time, lower rates and a climate that benefits from a daily breeze make Aruba an attractive option for a wide range of travelers, regardless of conditions back home.

Aruba's distinctive landscape makes it a truly special Caribbean island © Chris Taylor / 500px

Best times to go snorkeling in Aruba

The best conditions for snorkeling in Aruba occur when the winds and water are calmest, typically from September to November. The good news is that no matter what time of the year you visit Aruba for snorkeling, the air and water temperatures are warm and comfortable.

For the clearest and calmest waters, it is recommended to snorkel early in the morning around 9 a.m. After noon, water clarity tends to decrease as sand gets stirred up by the wind, waves, and other beachgoers.

A natural pool in Arikok National Park on the North coast of Aruba. MARC GUITARD/GETTY IMAGES

Best time to visit Aruba for events and festivals

Aruba hosts a variety of events, holidays, and festivals throughout the year.

One of the biggest annual events in Aruba is the Aruba Carnival. While the carnival officially starts in November, most of the events take place in January and February. The festivities include music, costumes, and parades. The carnival concludes with the Burning of King Momo on Carnival Monday, which is followed by a day of rest for the entire island.

Around Memorial Day Weekend, the Aruba Soul Beach Music Festival takes place for five days. This festival attracts renowned DJs, musicians, and comedians, and features parties on the beach, comedy shows, and live music.

In May, Aruba hosts the annual Aruba Hi-Winds kitesurfing and windsurfing tournament. Thanks to the trade winds and favorable weather conditions, the island attracts amateur and professional athletes from around the world. The competition is accompanied by beach parties and live music.

MTCURADO/GETTY IMAGES

When to avoid the crowds in Aruba

Aruba tends to be busiest between January and mid-April, but that doesn't mean you should avoid visiting during this time entirely.

Most visitors come to Aruba to enjoy the protected beaches on the western and southern coasts. By venturing towards the rugged eastern and northern coasts or exploring inland areas, you can escape the crowds.

Eagle Beach, nestled on the busier northwestern coast, offers a quieter alternative to neighboring beaches like Palm Beach. Manchebo Beach, located just south of Eagle Beach, is also a good option for avoiding crowds.

If you stay at one of Aruba's all-inclusive resorts, you may have access to a private beach area with fewer people.

Eagle Beach in Aruba. MARC BOETTINGER/GETTY IMAGES

The Best Times To Visit Aruba by Interests

Aruba's Eagle Beach is perfect for lazy days in the sun. Image Credit: Gregory Wangsadikrama via Unsplash

The Best Time To Visit Aruba To Save Money

According to Google Travel, Aruba hotel prices are highest from December to March. If you're traveling on a budget, it's best to plan your visit during the off-season from mid-April to October. During this time, you can find more affordable options.

You can also save money by using points and miles to pay for your flights to the Caribbean. Additionally, there are several hotels in Aruba where you can book using points.

The Best Time To Visit Aruba for Great Weather

Compared to much of the world, Aruba enjoys great weather throughout the year. The temperatures are fairly consistent, rarely dropping below 70 degrees. However, if you want near-perfect weather, plan your visit to Aruba from January to April. During this period, you can expect warm weather and minimal rainfall.

The Best Time To Visit for Water Activities

If you prefer warmer ocean temperatures, visit Aruba from June to November, when sea temperatures range from 81 to 84 degrees. October has the warmest water temperatures of the year. From January to March, the sea temperatures are cooler, averaging around 79 degrees.

Weather Impact on Visitors by Month

The chart above depicts the number of visitors to Aruba by month. Notice the lowest point in September and the peak months in March and December. © Scott S. Bateman

Caribbean tourism experiences peaks and valleys depending heavily on weather and family schedules, particularly when children are on school vacations.

Aruba follows this pattern, with the fall months typically having the lowest number of visitors due to concerns about storms and hurricanes.

As shown in the chart, September sees the lowest number of visitors to Aruba because of the potential for more rain. However, savvy travelers know that this can be an opportune time to find deeper discounts on hotels and resorts. They keep an eye on the weather forecast while searching for last-minute vacation deals.

A few other months worth considering due to fewer tourists and decent weather include May, and especially June, which has one of the lowest levels of vacationers throughout the year.

Average Monthly Weather

January

The weather in Aruba during January is warm and dry, making it the most popular time to visit the island. Despite average high air temperatures of 86 degrees Fahrenheit or 30 Celsius, the sea water can still be cool at times. However, rainfall is minimal, averaging only one inch.

February

In February, Aruba experiences slightly warmer temperatures and remains dry. Visitors may find the sea water cool, discouraging some from swimming. However, there are still comfortable currents to enjoy.

March

March sees an increase in tourism due to spring break, making it the second busiest month of the year. The weather is very similar to February, with the exception of a decrease in rainfall. It is an extremely dry month.

April

Temperatures continue to rise in April, but the number of visitors starts to decline. This month is considered the best time to visit, as the weather and seawater become warmer, and there are fewer crowds on the beaches.

May

May is another favorable month to visit Aruba, as it offers similar conditions to April. Temperatures are warmer, and crowds are even lighter than the previous month.

June

June marks the beginning of the hot season in Aruba, with temperatures averaging above 90 degrees Fahrenheit or 32 Celsius for the first time of the year. The arid interior becomes uncomfortably hot during the afternoons, making land activities less enjoyable. June also has the second lowest number of visitors.

July

July is the third most popular month to visit Aruba. The weather is similar to June, with hot temperatures and minimal rainfall. Heat becomes a factor for land activities, particularly in the arid Arikok National Park where most land excursions take place.

August

August maintains average temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Although tourism declines compared to July, the beach sand can be scorching at times. However, the seawater provides a warm and pleasant experience.

September

September is the least popular month to visit Aruba due to the hot temperatures and its position within the peak of the Caribbean hurricane season. Weather conditions remain similar to the previous months, with hot temperatures and minimal rainfall.

October

October marks the beginning of the rainy season in Aruba, with an average of three inches of rainfall. This is comparable to many other islands during their dry seasons. Some visitors may choose to avoid the island during October due to its position in the height of the region's hurricane season.

November

November continues the rainy season, with another three inches of rainfall. It also sees an increase in the number of rainy days, averaging 11 throughout the month.

December

The weather in December is similar to the previous two months, with slightly higher rainfall. However, the average high temperature of 87 Fahrenheit or 31 Celsius still allows for pleasant beach days. December has the highest number of rainy days, averaging nearly 12 out of 31 total.

Average Water Temperatures

For those who enjoy swimming and sunbathing, the water temperatures in Aruba average 81 degrees. However, they may vary slightly each month.

During the winter, the water is typically warm enough for swimming. However, in the mornings, it may be cool enough to limit the time spent in the water.

Water temperatures generally fall between the average daily high and low temperatures.

The water remains comfortable for swimming throughout most of the year, with the exception of early mornings during the winter months. The temperatures average in the high 70s Fahrenheit and can occasionally reach the low 80s.

Average Air Temperatures

Aruba's climate is one of the warmest in the Caribbean, with an average monthly high temperature of nearly 89 degrees Fahrenheit, according to the Meteorological Service of Netherland Antilles and Aruba.

The average monthly high temperatures exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit or 32 Celsius in August and September, making those months less comfortable for activities such as shopping and hiking, especially during midday. The beach sand also becomes very hot.

Inland areas without strong trade winds are generally warmer than coastal areas, despite the island's small size.

The average low temperature is 78 degrees Fahrenheit or 25 Celsius, with slight variations of only about two degrees each month.

Hurricane Season

The hurricane season in Aruba is short and generally mild. It lasts from September to November and rarely experiences nearby tropical storms or hurricanes.

Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao are located on the southern fringes of the hurricane belt.

On average, only one major tropical cyclone passes over or near the islands every 100 years, according to the Meteorological Service of the Netherland Antilles and Aruba.

Tropical cyclones pass within approximately 100 miles of the islands once every four years. These storms usually pass to the north without causing significant adverse weather conditions, but they may bring increased rain and cloud cover.

The chances of being in Aruba at the same time as a nearby cyclone are extremely low. While visiting the island in September or October during the peak of the Caribbean hurricane season slightly increases the risk of experiencing inclement weather, the chances of encountering decent weather are still quite high.

Hurricane Season in Aruba

The southern Caribbean is typically less threatened by Atlantic hurricanes than the northern Caribbean. While it is possible for hurricanes to take unusual trajectories and potentially affect Aruba, the island remains one of the safest options for pleasant weather in the Caribbean during the peak storm season, which usually occurs from early summer to fall.

January

The highlight of high season in Aruba is Carnival, which brings parades and festivities to the streets of Oranjestad and San Nicolas. This vibrant celebration showcases vivid costumes, calypso music, and the Tivoli Lighting Parade, where twinkling lights illuminate floats and costumes throughout the tropical night.

Key events: Aruba Carnival Season, Dande, Betico Croes Day, Aruba Island Fest (San Nicolas).

March

Aruba celebrates its flag day on March 18 with fireworks displays across the island. This day often coincides with folklore presentations and joyful renditions of the national anthem by local children.

Key events: National Anthem and Flag Day, Aruba Island Fest (San Nicolas).

May

Aruba's annual Soul Beach Music Festival brings beach parties and nightclub celebrations to Palm Beach and Oranjestad, featuring a lineup of music and comedy that consistently ranks it among the top music festivals in the Caribbean. International artists, including DJ Jazzy Jeff and Chaka Khan, often make appearances. The festival sometimes coincides with the three-day Aruba Food & Wine Festival.

Key events: Aruba Soul Beach Music Festival, Aruba Food & Wine Festival, Aruba Island Fest (San Nicolas).

June

June welcomes the celebration of Dera Gai, also known as St. John's Day. This festival involves storytelling, music, and bonfires. Historically, local men would jump over the bonfires as part of a challenge and play blindfolded hide-and-seek with a half-buried rooster. Today, it serves as a symbolic cleansing and celebration without the use of real roosters.

Key events: Dera Gai (St. John's Day), International Triathlon, Aruba Summer Music Festival, Aruba Island Fest (San Nicolas).

July

Wind and kite surfers from around the world gather on the island to compete in the Hi-Winds Tournament, powered by the trade winds. The tournament takes place within sight of Palm Beach's luxurious resorts and offers great opportunities for people-watching.

Key event: Aruba Hi-Winds Kitesurfing & Windsurfing Tournament.

October

While American cuisine is readily available in Aruba, experiencing the local culinary heritage is a must. The island is home to over 90 different ethnic groups, and it's common for children to speak up to four languages. Aruba Restaurant Week showcases the island's diverse cuisine, blending South American, European, and Caribbean flavors into unforgettable dishes.

Key event: Eat Local Aruba Restaurant Week.

November

Aruba's beach tennis championships replace traditional racquets with paddles and formal attire with board shorts and bikinis. The Aruba Beach Tennis Open, held in November, combines sports and sand in a relaxed and casual atmosphere. In the background, the colorful sails of the island's catamaran regatta can be seen on the returning trade winds.

Key events: Aruba Open Beach Tennis Championships, Island TakeOver Festival, Aruba Art Fair, Aruba Catamaran Regatta.

December

Sint Nicolaas arrives in Oranjestad's Paardenbaai Harbor on December 5, much to the delight of local children. Later in the month, Aruba celebrates the New Year and prepares for the upcoming Carnival festivities in January.

Key events: Sint Nicolaas Day, New Years Eve.

This article was first published in April 2021 and updated in May 2022.

Average Rainfall

Aruba experiences a rainy season from October to December, with an average monthly rainfall of more than three inches. These months are not ideal for visiting the island.

Rain is typically not a major factor in Aruba due to its arid climate, with an average annual rainfall of only 16 inches. While rainfall increases to more than three inches in October through December, the total is still relatively low compared to other Caribbean destinations.

From January to September, rainfall averages only about one inch per month, making these months more desirable for visitors.

Despite a slight increase in rainfall in September, Aruba experiences a significant drop in tourism during that month due to concerns about Caribbean hurricanes.

The chart also indicates that visitors traveling to Aruba in March through May have a 7 percent chance of encountering rain, while those visiting in December have a 37 percent chance.

In conclusion, Aruba offers travelers a variety of options when it comes to choosing the best time to visit. Whether you prefer to avoid the crowds and enjoy the tranquility of the low season, or revel in the vibrant atmosphere of events and festivals during the shoulder season, there is something for everyone. The weather, with its consistently warm temperatures and low risk of hurricanes, is a major draw for beachgoers and water enthusiasts throughout the year. So pack your bags and head to Aruba, where the best time to travel is whenever your heart desires!