Tipping
Cash & Credit
Cards
Tipping, Cash & Credit Cards
Tipping in Aruba: What You Should Know
I get asked about tipping in Aruba all the time, and my answer is simple: we usually tip just like we would back home—20%. If we can afford to vacation in Aruba, we can afford to show our appreciation to the people who help make it amazing.
Now, let’s talk about the service charge you’ll sometimes see on your restaurant bill. Not all restaurants include this, but when they do, it’s usually a 15% charge that gets split among the entire staff—front and back of house. That means cooks, servers, bartenders, dishwashers, bussers, hostesses—you name it. Since that split doesn’t go far, I personally still add an extra 5–10% tip on top when the service is great.
Grocery Store Helpers
Those helpful young men who bag your groceries and walk them to your car at places like Superfoods, Ling & Sons, and CMART? They don’t earn a salary—they rely entirely on tips. Many are high schoolers saving up for college, so a few dollars goes a long way. I always tip them, and I hope you will too!
Taxis, Tours & Excursions
If you’re taking a taxi or hiring a private driver and they go above and beyond, a tip is a great way to say thanks—and honestly, it’s likely you’ve just made a friend for life in Aruba.
The same goes for excursions like snorkel trips, catamaran sails, or private island tours. If you had an unforgettable time, tip your guides or crew—and leave a great review online! It makes a huge difference.
Hotels & Resorts
Don’t forget about the people working behind the scenes to make your vacation awesome—bellmen, concierge, bartenders, servers, housekeepers, and entertainment staff. They work hard, and most genuinely care about making your stay special. A little tip shows a lot of gratitude.
PRO TIP:
If you can score some $2 bill for tips, people will be SO happy!
Cash vs. Credit: What to Bring to Aruba
Having cash on hand in Aruba is always a good idea. It comes in handy for tipping at resorts, paying taxi drivers, shopping at local farmer’s markets, and visiting small vendors—many of which may not accept cards.
When I stay in Aruba for extended trips (usually 2+ months), I typically bring around $1,500 in cash, which comfortably covers my expenses. While casino ATMs are convenient, they often come with steep fees (sometimes $10 per transaction), so it’s best to arrive prepared. If you end up with large bills, head to the casino cashier—they’ll break them into smaller denominations, which are more widely accepted and make transactions easier.
At some local spots, you may receive change in Aruban Florins instead of USD. Don’t toss those coins—they hold more value than you might think!
Currency Tips:
• U.S. travelers: No need to exchange your money—USD is widely accepted.
• Bring smaller bills, as 50's and 100's may not be accepted at some places or they may not be able to make change.
• Canadian travelers: It’s best to convert your CAD to USD before your trip for smoother transactions.
•If you need more cash while your here, just go to any casino and the ATM's disperse USD. You can ask for smaller bills at the casher
Credit Cards in Aruba
I personally use a travel rewards credit card whenever I can to rack up points for future adventures. Most restaurants, shops, and attractions accept major credit cards—but it’s smart to carry some cash just in case, especially when visiting smaller, local businesses.
One tip: avoid using a debit card internationally. If it gets compromised, your bank account is at risk and your protections are more limited compared to a credit card.