Car
Rentals
Renting a Car in Aruba: What You Need to Know
First things first! BOOK EARLY! Rental cars in Aruba sell out fast, especially during high season, so don’t wait to reserve yours.
Why Rent a Car?
Renting a car is hands down one of the best ways to explore Aruba at your own pace. Whether you’re chasing beaches, checking out Baby Beach or heading inland to Santa Cruz, or just want the freedom to grocery shop and hit restaurants, having your own wheels makes a huge difference.
If you’re staying at an Airbnb, I highly recommend renting a car for your entire stay—it’ll make your life so much easier. Plus, you’ll actually save money in the long run!
Taxis can add up fast, especially if you’re out and about exploring the island.
And here’s something else—if you’re wet and sandy from the beach, you can’t just hop into a taxi or a public bus. So if you truly want to beach hop and discover all the stunning beaches Aruba has to offer, having your own car is an absolute must!
Local vs. National Rental Companies
Skip the big-name chains and GO LOCAL! Local companies are usually cheaper, more flexible, and provide way better service. One of our favorite companies is Nexus Car Rental Aruba.
Other Local Rental Companies
If you’re using a different local company, here’s how it typically works:
-Their offices are just 2–3 minutes from the airport.
-When you exit the airport, look for a rep wearing a brightly colored shirt and holding a sign with the company name.
-They’ll either shuttle you to their office in a van (with others), or drive you in the rental car itself to their office to complete the paperwork.
Once at the office
-You’ll sign paperwork, show your major credit card (no debit cards), and pay a deposit—usually $300–$1,000 depending on the company, car type and age (if under 25).
-The rental rep will take a video of the car (and you should too—always a good idea before AND after drop-off).
Returning the Car
Depending on the company, you’ll either:
-Return the car to their office (they’ll shuttle you back to the airport)
-Meet them at the Airport
-Leave the car in a designated parking row across from the airport with keys and documents inside.
Pro Tip:
Drop a pin in your Maps app when picking up the car if at an office off-site of the airport—it’ll help when it’s time to return it!
Other Helpful Tips
-Don’t stress about a little sand. Shake things out before hopping in and try to keep sandy items in the trunk. We’ve never had an issue.
-Wind warning! Aruba’s breeze is no joke—hold your car doors when opening to avoid damage.
-Car insurance? We skip the extra insurance because our credit card offers international car rental coverage.
-Cash discount? Many local companies offer one—just ask! (If paying in cash, consider adding the extra insurance since you won’t have a credit card as backup.)
Nexus Car Rental
Nexus Car Rental Aruba – Our Top Pick
Nexus Car Rental just made things even easier! They’ve opened a brand-new office right by the airport at the Hyatt Airport location—only about a 1.5 block walk from the terminal. Step inside, enjoy the cold A/C, and you’ll be on your way in less than 10 minutes.
In some cases, you can arrange for pickup instead of walking, but it really depends on how many people are in your group and how many other renters are arriving on the same flight.
If you only need a car for a shorter time (3-day minimum), Nexus will still deliver to your hotel or private vacation rental. That said, I highly recommend renting for your entire stay—it just makes getting around Aruba so much easier.
They offer a great selection of vehicles including small Kia hatchbacks, sedans, and even vans for larger groups or families. Whether you’re here for beach hopping or just cruising the island, they’ve got something to fit your needs.
A 3-day minimum rental is required, and there’s a $300 deposit, which is standard across most rentals on the island. But trust me, the service you get is well worth it. John and Maria truly go above and beyond to make sure you’re taken care of—one of the many reasons I love recommending them!
When you book, don’t forget to mention Aruba Vacation Tips as how you found them—it helps support my small biz and keeps the good recommendations coming your way!
What to Do If You’re in a Car Accident in Aruba
Accidents happen—even on vacation. If you find yourself in a car accident in Aruba, here’s exactly what to do:
1. Safely pull over so you’re not blocking traffic.
2. Turn on your hazard lights.
3. Call 165, Aruba’s roadside assistance line. Let them know what happened and where you are—they’ll send someone out quickly, usually in an air-conditioned van (bonus in that Aruba heat!).
I actually experienced this firsthand—though I wasn’t the driver! I had just finished grocery shopping at Ling & Sons, and when I came out to my rental car, a local woman was waiting next to me. The strong island wind had whipped her car door open and slammed it into the side of my vehicle. I was SO lucky she stayed—otherwise, I might not have noticed the damage, and could’ve been blamed for it when I returned the rental.
She called 165, and I also contacted my rental company to let them know what happened and that roadside assistance was on the way. Within five minutes, the 165 team arrived, took photos of the damage, and had both of us give statements inside their air-conditioned van—first the other driver, then me.
Because she admitted full responsibility and I wasn’t even in the car at the time, I was off the hook—no insurance issues, no stress. The whole process was fast, friendly, and surprisingly efficient. I made sure to keep the paperwork and followed up with the rental company, who confirmed I was “good to go.” It's been 2+ years, so I guess so!
Pro Tip:
If you’re renting a car in Aruba, make sure you have rental car coverage—either through your personal insurance or a credit card with international coverage (like I did). It’s peace of mind you’ll be glad you have, just in case!
