What to Wear in Aruba: A Comprehensive Guide to Dressing for the Island’s Climate and Culture
Stephanie Patterson
Table of Contents
As someone who has traveled to Aruba multiple times, I can attest that packing for this Caribbean island can be a bit tricky. With its warm and sunny weather all year round, it’s easy to think that you can just throw in a few swimsuits and flip flops and call it a day.
However, there are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to what to wear in Aruba.
First and foremost, it’s important to remember that Aruba is a very laid-back destination. Smart casual is the norm, and you’ll rarely find anyone dressed up unless they’re attending a special event.
This means that you can leave your fancy dresses and high heels at home and opt for comfortable, lightweight clothing instead.
When it comes to what to wear during the day, it’s all about staying cool and comfortable. Since Aruba is known for its beautiful beaches, you’ll likely spend most of your time in swimwear and cover-ups.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that the sun can be quite strong, so be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the rays.
Aruba’s Climate
I have visited Aruba several times and I can tell you that the climate is one of the reasons why I keep coming back. Aruba is located in the southern Caribbean, just 12 degrees north of the Equator.
The island enjoys a tropical climate that is characterized by warm temperatures, low humidity, and constant trade winds.
The average temperature in Aruba is around 82°F (28°C) with little variation throughout the year. The island experiences a constant cooling breeze that makes the temperature feel much more comfortable.
However, the sun can be quite intense, so it’s important to wear sunscreen and protective clothing to avoid sunburn and heatstroke.
Aruba has a dry climate with very little rainfall. The island receives an average of only 15 inches (38 cm) of rain per year, making it one of the driest places in the Caribbean.
The dry season runs from January to September, with the driest months being March and April. The wet season runs from October to December, but even during this time, the rain is usually brief and sporadic.
When packing for your trip to Aruba, it’s important to keep the climate in mind. The island’s warm and dry weather means that you can pack light and airy clothing. Shorts, sundresses, tank tops, and sandals are all appropriate attire for the island’s casual atmosphere.
However, it’s also important to pack some lightweight long-sleeved shirts and pants for sun protection during outdoor activities.
Overall, Aruba’s climate is one of the island’s biggest draws. With its warm temperatures, low humidity, and constant trade winds, it’s the perfect destination for those seeking a tropical getaway.
Beach Attire
When it comes to what to wear at the beach in Aruba, comfort and practicality are key. The temperature is hot and humid, so you’ll want to wear lightweight and breathable clothing.
For women, a swimsuit and a cover-up or sarong are a must-have. A cover-up or sarong can be used to protect your skin from the sun or to cover up when you’re walking around the beach or grabbing a bite to eat.
A hat and sunglasses are also essential to protect your face and eyes from the sun. For men, swim trunks or board shorts and a t-shirt or tank top are a good choice.
Flip flops or sandals are the perfect footwear for the beach. It’s important to note that Aruba is a very casual place, even on the beach. You won’t see many people dressed up or wearing fancy clothes.
Stick to comfortable and practical clothing that you don’t mind getting sandy or wet.
Overall, the key to beach attire in Aruba is to keep it simple and comfortable. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen and a beach towel, and you’ll be all set for a day of fun in the sun!
Casual Wear
When it comes to casual wear in Aruba, comfort is key. The island is known for its laid-back atmosphere, so you can keep it simple and stylish at the same time. Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics such as linen, cotton, and silk to stay cool in the warm tropical climate.
For women, sundresses, shorts, and tank tops are great options for casual wear. You can also consider packing a lightweight kimono or cover-up to throw over your swimsuit when you’re out and about.
For men, a pair of shorts and a t-shirt or polo shirt will do the trick. It’s important to note that some restaurants and bars may have a dress code, even for casual wear.
In these cases, it’s best to err on the side of caution and dress a little more formally. A nice pair of sandals or loafers for men, and dressy sandals or flats for women, can elevate a casual outfit to fit a dressier occasion.
Overall, the key to casual wear in Aruba is to keep it comfortable, simple, and stylish. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different pieces to create a unique look that suits your personal style.
Evening Wear
When it comes to evening wear in Aruba, you can’t go wrong with a sundress or a nice blouse paired with a skirt or pants. Opt for light, breathable fabrics to stay comfortable in the warm weather.
If you plan on dining at a nicer restaurant or attending a formal event, a maxi dress or a cocktail dress would be appropriate. Don’t forget to bring a lightweight jacket or sweater as some indoor venues may have air conditioning.
For footwear, sandals or wedges are a great choice. Avoid high heels as they may be difficult to walk in on the uneven terrain and may sink into the sand.
If you’re unsure about the dress code for an event or venue, don’t be afraid to ask the staff or do some research beforehand. It’s always better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed.
Footwear
When it comes to footwear in Aruba, you want to keep it light and comfortable. The island is known for its sandy beaches, so flip-flops or sandals are a must-have.
You’ll also want to bring a pair of water shoes if you plan on exploring rocky or pebbly beach areas. They will come in handy when walking on the coral reefs or when you want to protect your feet from sharp rocks or shells.
If you’re planning on hiking, it’s best to pack a pair of sturdy, closed-toe shoes or hiking boots.
The Arikok National Park is a popular hiking spot, and the terrain can be rough, so you’ll want to have the right footwear for the job.
For a night out, you can dress up your outfit with a pair of wedges or dressy sandals. Aruba is a laid-back island, so there’s no need to bring any formal footwear.
Comfortable shoes are the way to go, especially if you plan on dancing the night away at one of the island’s many nightclubs.
Accessories
When it comes to accessories for your Aruba vacation, there are a few must-haves that will make your trip more enjoyable and comfortable.
First and foremost, you’ll want to bring a beach tote to carry all your essentials to and from the beach. Look for a bag that is lightweight, durable, and has plenty of pockets to keep your items organized.
A sun hat is another essential accessory for your Aruba vacation. The sun can be intense, and a hat will provide much-needed shade for your face and neck.
Look for a hat that is wide-brimmed and made from a breathable material like straw or cotton.
Don’t forget to bring a cover-up for when you’re not in the water. A cover-up will provide some protection from the sun and keep you cool and comfortable. Look for a cover-up that is lightweight, breathable, and easy to slip on and off.
If you plan on doing any snorkeling or water activities, consider bringing your own snorkel gear. This will save you money on rentals and ensure that you have a comfortable and well-fitting mask and snorkel.
Finally, a quick-dry towel and a reusable water bottle are two more accessories that will come in handy during your Aruba vacation.
A quick-dry towel will dry quickly and won’t take up much space in your beach bag, while a reusable water bottle will help you stay hydrated throughout the day.
Packing Tips
When packing for Aruba, it’s important to keep in mind the hot and sunny weather.
Here are some packing tips to help you prepare for your trip:
- Bring lightweight, breathable clothing made from natural fabrics such as linen, silk, and cotton. These fabrics will help keep you cool in the hot weather.
- Don’t forget to pack sunscreen with a high SPF and reapply it often to protect your skin from the strong sun.
- Consider bringing a cover-up or rashguard to wear over your swimsuit for extra sun protection.
- Bring a hat with a wide brim to protect your face and neck from the sun.
- Comfortable sandals or flip flops are a must for the beach, but also consider bringing a pair of water shoes for rocky areas.
- Bring insect repellent to protect yourself from mosquitoes, especially if you plan on hiking near water.
- Consider packing aloe vera or other soothing creams in case you do get sunburned.
- Don’t forget to bring any necessary medications and a first aid kit in case of emergencies.
- Finally, don’t overpack! Aruba is a casual destination and you won’t need to bring too many fancy clothes.
By following these packing tips, you’ll be well-prepared for your Aruba vacation and ready to enjoy all the island has to offer.
