When to Go to Aruba

Learn about the high and low seasons and you might find that anytime is a good time to visit Aruba

A Vacation for Your Umbrella

Rainy days are extremely rare on Aruba. Located out of most hurricanes' paths, Aruba maintains an average daytime temperature of 82 degrees Fahrenheit???the perfect weather for sailing, scuba-diving, or getting a tan.

High Season

Although Aruba's weather is almost always paradise, there still is a peak season for tourism on the island. Most visitors arrive between January and March, when the temperature does not stray beyond 76 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. During this time, Carnival takes place throughout the Caribbean. The two-month festivities precede the island's observance of Lent (which is in February). The climax of Carnival comes in late February with the Grand Carnival Parade. It is also nice to observe Aruban versions of holidays that are celebrated around the world, such as New Year's Day and Flag Day. Jan. 25 happens to be the birthday of Betico Croes, who is the father of Aruba's independence.

The rates of hotels and resorts rise during this period. Also, reservations for rooms with optimal views of the beach are made months in advance. During the high season, the majority of visitors to the island tends to be upper-middle-class, older North Americans.

Off Season

If you prefer smaller crowds and a quieter mood, try Aruba during the off-season. However, keep in mind that Aruba is seldom deserted because the off-season, which includes April through December, is not plagued by the same weather as other Caribbean islands. The temperatures do not change much beyond 79 and 88 degrees Fahrenheit, and many travelers consider the off-season a bargain. Resorts slash rates 20 percent to 50 percent.

In the summer, European travelers vacation and South Americans experience winter. This makes Aruba's tourist population more diverse than in the high season. There are more European and South American visitors, particularly of Dutch origin. Even though Americans still make up the majority of travelers in the summertime, there is a more budget-conscious crowd with an emphasis on families, but singles are also likely to visit Aruba during this time.

Owners skim the availability of certain attractions and tourist services during the off-season. Restaurants could close earlier. Tour operators may guide a smaller number of tours. Hotels use this time to renovate and reconstruct their attractions.

Holidays observed during this season provide plenty to enjoy. One Cool Summer, an island summertime observance, offers many recreational options, especially for families during the One Cool Island for Families celebration, May 1 to Sept. 30.

???Medium??? Season

There is some debate over when the high season is active. Some may consider high season active in Aruba from as early as September???some as late as December. But there is debate over whether there is a third ???medium???season. Tourists flock to Aruba during the winter months to escape the cold. This season is somewhat disputable, so rates depend on the particular hotel. Travelers should contact hotels of interest before reserving.

So, when to go to Aruba, Arubans will tell you ??? any season is a good season.

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