Aruba — known as “One Happy Island” — is one of the Caribbean’s most successful tourism destinations, famous for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and consistent sunshine.
In 2024, the island welcomed about 1.25 million stay-over visitors, surpassing pre-pandemic levels.
Tourism remains the backbone of Aruba’s economy, accounting for more than 70% of GDP and providing thousands of jobs for locals.
Key stats: Aruba Tourism
- 1.42 million stay-over tourists in 2024 — Aruba recorded a strong rebound with double-digit growth, proving its lasting appeal.
- +14.4% increase in stay-over visitors by November 2024 (1.29 m) — proving momentum through the year.
- Nearly 8 out of 10 visitors came from North America in late 2024, underlining the region’s dominance in Aruba’s tourism market.
- The rental boom: Short-term vacation rentals saw occupancy hit 54.7% in Nov 2024, up from 50.8% a year earlier.
- Airbnb-based stays averaged ~$181/night, with typical guest spending around $634 for a ~5.7-day stay.
- By October 2024 year-to-date, Aruba hosted 1.19 million visitors, with South America growing fastest (+44.4%).
- The average length of stay reached 6.8 nights as of mid-2025 — showing visitors are staying longer.
- In July 2024 alone, 861,000 tourists accounted for over 6.64 million nights, a +12.6% jump in stay length from 2023.
- August 2024 saw a 17.5% year-on-year jump in arrivals, driven by U.S. and Canadian demand.
How Many Tourists Visit Aruba Each Year?
Aruba welcomed around 1.25 million stay-over visitors in 2024, up from 1.1 million in 2023 and higher than 2019’s 1.19 million.
- 2019: 1.19M visitors
- 2020: ~430K (COVID-19 impact)
- 2021: ~900K
- 2022: 1.07M
- 2023: 1.1M
- 2024: 1.25M
How Many Tourists Visit Aruba Each Day?
An average of about 3,425 tourists arrive in Aruba daily.
During peak winter months (December–April), the island can receive more than 4,500 arrivals per day, primarily from the United States and Canada.
How Much Do Visitors Spend in Aruba?
Tourism receipts exceeded USD 2.4 billion in 2024.
- Average daily spend per tourist: ~$250–270
- Cruise visitor spending: ~$125 per passenger (on-island expenditure)
- Tourism share of GDP: ~70%
- Employment supported: ~27,000 jobs (direct + indirect)
Which Countries Visit Aruba the Most?
The United States overwhelmingly dominates Aruba’s tourism market, followed by Colombia, the Netherlands, and Canada.
| Country | Visitors (2024 est.) | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 🇺🇸 United States | ~830K | ~66% |
| 🇨🇴 Colombia | ~75K | ~6% |
| 🇳🇱 Netherlands | ~70K | ~5.5% |
| 🇨🇦 Canada | ~60K | ~5% |
| 🇻🇪 Venezuela | ~45K | ~3.5% |
| 🇧🇷 Brazil | ~25K | ~2% |
| 🇨🇱 Chile | ~20K | ~1.5% |
| 🇩🇴 Dominican Republic | ~15K | ~1% |
| 🇦🇼 Local & regional (Caribbean) | ~60K | ~5% |
| 🇬🇧 United Kingdom | ~10K | <1% |
What Are the Most Visited Attractions in Aruba?
Beyond its famous beaches, Aruba offers natural parks, landmarks, and cultural sites that attract hundreds of thousands each year.
| Attraction | Annual Visitors (est.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Eagle Beach | ~1M | Frequently ranked among the world’s best beaches |
| Palm Beach | ~900K | Resort-lined coastline |
| Arikok National Park | ~250K | Covers 20% of the island |
| California Lighthouse | ~180K | Scenic sunset spot |
| Natural Pool (Conchi) | ~160K | Volcanic rock lagoon |
| Oranjestad Downtown | ~1M | Shopping & dining district |
| Baby Beach | ~200K | Calm bay for families |
| Aloe Museum & Factory | ~120K | Local heritage site |
| Butterfly Farm | ~100K | Nature attraction |
| Alto Vista Chapel | ~90K | Historic pilgrimage site |
When Is the Best Time to Visit Aruba? (Seasonality)
Aruba enjoys sunshine year-round and lies outside the hurricane belt, but December–April is peak season.
| Season | Trend | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Winter (Dec–Apr) | Peak | Dry, sunny, most expensive |
| Summer (May–Aug) | Moderate | Slightly warmer, calmer |
| Autumn (Sep–Nov) | Low | Best deals, fewer crowds |
| Year-round | Stable | ~82°F average temperature |
How Much Does Aruba Earn from Tourism?
Tourism contributes roughly USD 2.4 billion annually, making it the island’s dominant economic sector.
- Tourism represents ~70% of GDP
- Supports over 80% of employment (direct and indirect)
- Drives strong growth in hospitality, transport, and real estate
How Busy Are Aruba’s Hotels?
Hotel occupancy reached ~79% in 2024, close to all-time highs.
- Average daily rate (ADR): ~$350
- RevPAR (Revenue per available room): ~$275
- Luxury segment occupancy: 82–85%
- Boutique & vacation rentals: increasing share of total capacity
Which Areas Are Most Popular With Tourists?
Most visitors stay along Aruba’s northwest coast, but adventure seekers explore the island’s interior too.
- Palm Beach: High-rise resorts, nightlife, casinos
- Eagle Beach: Low-rise hotels, family-friendly
- Oranjestad: Shopping, culture, cruise port
- San Nicolas: Street art, beaches, local life
- Arikok National Park: Hiking, caves, off-road tours
Cruise Tourism in Aruba
Cruise tourism is booming again after pandemic lows.
- 2024 cruise arrivals: ~850,000 passengers
- 2025 forecast: Over 900,000 expected
- Cruise sector share: ~40% of total visitors (including day-trippers)
FAQ – Aruba Tourism Insights
How many tourists visit Aruba each year?
Around 1.25 million stay-over visitors in 2024.
Which country sends the most tourists to Aruba?
The United States — about two-thirds of all visitors.
How much does tourism contribute to Aruba’s economy?
Roughly 70% of GDP and 27,000 jobs.
When is the best time to visit Aruba?
December to April for peak sunshine, or September to November for fewer crowds.
How busy are Aruba’s hotels?
Average occupancy reached ~79% in 2024, with luxury resorts near 85%.
What’s the average tourist spend?
About USD 250–270 per day per visitor.
Is Aruba affected by hurricanes?
No — it’s outside the hurricane belt, making it one of the Caribbean’s safest destinations year-round.
Sources
- Aruba Tourism Authority (ATA) — Official Tourism Statistics 2024–2025
- Caribbean Journal — Aruba Sets New Tourism Record in 2024
- World Data Atlas / Knoema — Aruba Tourism Statistics Overview
- Travel Weekly — Aruba Tourism Growth Outpaces the Caribbean
- Statista — Aruba Tourism Statistics 2025
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