The little pleasures of travel are free: the aroma of coffee at the airport, the cotton candy clouds viewed from high above, and the tropical breeze that greets you as you step outside. However, there is one simple truth: we must spend before we can fully enjoy the experience. At Ocean Z, we love helping our guests make the most of every moment, so in this edition of our blog, we are talking about all things money.
Like anywhere in the world, an Aruban getaway can be as affordable or as luxurious as you choose. The larger your budget, the greater your access to unique and exclusive experiences. To help you plan wisely, we have gathered key information to answer some of the most common questions visitors ask such as “what is the official currency?” and “how does money exchange in Aruba work?” Time to break it down.
Understanding Aruba’s currency
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First things first… Let’s take a look at the overall economy of this Lesser Antilles island. The official currency is the Aruba Florin, internationally identified by the initials AWG or, more commonly, Afl. It was introduced in 1986 to replace the Netherlands Antillean guilder, making it a relatively recent form of payment. Colorful bills celebrate local landmarks, wildlife, and flora, ranging from 10 to 200 Afl. Coins are available in 5, 10, 25, and 50 cents, as well as 1 florin (or 100 cents). Visit Aruba highlights that the 5-cent coin stands out for its square shape, so you will likely see it in souvenir shops.
Although understanding the florin is helpful, you do not need to memorize every detail. Thanks to tourism and Aruba’s cultural diversity, the US dollar has long been widely accepted in restaurants, shops, and tour operators. As of November 1, 2025, 1 USD equals about 1.77 Afl. in cash and 1.78 Afl. in travel checks. In other words, $100 USD converts to roughly 177 Afl. The tourism board notes that most supermarkets and gas stations use an exchange rate of 1.75 Afl., while many restaurants and shops apply 1.80 Afl., making it easy for visitors to plan their spending.
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Where and how to exchange money
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Now that you understand the basics, you will realize that exchanging money in Aruba is not always necessary. If your stay is short, you may not need florins at all, especially around Noord’s low-rise area. Still, it is good to know that, as in many countries, there are different ways to access local cash. A few prove to be more convenient than others. Below, you will find where to go when you need florins or if you would like to save a few notes as mementos.
- ATMs: These are the most convenient and widely available option, as most dispense US dollars. Some travelers, however, prefer using them only when essential since exchange rates can be unfavorable, especially in the island’s busy northwest.
- Banks: Local banks handle foreign currencies approved by the Central Bank of Aruba, which oversees exchange rates. Keep in mind that every time you purchase another currency, such as converting florins to dollars, you’ll pay a 1.3% government fee. Well-known options include Aruba Bank and Banco di Caribe.
- Shops and restaurants: As mentioned earlier, most establishments take US dollars in both cash and card payments, so there is no need to stress. Many visitors explain that prices rarely change whether you pay in florins or dollars.
It is also worth noting that while most places accept credit cards, taxis do not. So, to avoid any inconvenience, always carry a bit of cash, in either currency, when heading to or from Queen Beatrix International Airport or that trending social media hotspot. We recommend smaller bills make tipping and quick transactions much smoother.
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Understanding money exchange in Aruba takes one small concern off your plate, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the experiences that make a trip truly memorable. From savoring a cocojito at sunset to wandering through lively local markets, each thoughtfully planned moment can become a cherished memory. This is where Ocean Z excels. We delight in helping our guests enjoy every aspect of their stay. Want to know more? Browse our 13 suites and start planning a seamless, unforgettable Aruban escape today.
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