Aruba is one of the most popular Caribbean destinations for many reasons—its white-sand beaches, magnificent marine life, and year-round sunny climate make it a paradise for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Beyond its breathtaking sights and natural treasures, Aruba stands out because of its friendly locals. Staying in a VacationAruba partner property will show you just how local touch can elevate your holiday experience with our insider knowledge and personalized services. Enjoy a peaceful and relaxing stay in a rental with your own pool away from the city or stay in a penthouse just a few steps away from Eagle Beach. Or perhaps consider accommodations at Tierra del Sol, where you can combine your stay with access to a world-class golf course, stunning landscapes, and exceptional service for an unforgettable experience.
That being said, no vacation is complete without mementos and souvenirs to bring back home to family and friends. And with Aruba’s wealth of natural resources and rich culture, you’re sure to find special things that will make for meaningful gifts when you return home. To help you in your search, here are a few souvenirs to bring home from your Aruban holiday, perfect for gifting or for your personal enjoyment.
Fine Ceramics
As a constituent country of the Kingdom of Netherlands, Aruba is a good source of souvenirs inspired by Dutch heritage. Among the most characteristically Dutch items you can get in Aruba is Delft Blue pottery, which is a popular porcelain collectible known for its blue-and-white color scheme. You can choose between genuine Delftware or cheaper Delft-inspired pieces, depending on your budget.
Aloe Products
Aruban aloe is touted as among the best in the world, owing to the island’s thriving aloe industry. So, take advantage while you’re on vacation and pick up some aloe products. Aside from getting an aloe cream, lotion, or face wash to bring home to your loved ones, why not grab some aloe skincare gel too, since you might need some after-sun care during your stay on the island?
Larimar, Sea Glass, and Other Jewelry
A holiday in Aruba is also the best time to shop for jewelry because of the low sales tax on the island. You can find many high-end jewelers in Oranjestad and other locations, where you can choose from fine jewelry with diamonds, Colombian emeralds, and other gems. If you’re looking for gifting options, you can go with larimar jewelry, which you can find in local shops and markets. Larimar is a rare blue pectolite stone mined mainly in the Dominican Republic. Its allure lies in its resemblance to the Caribbean Sea, making larimar jewelry a fitting souvenir from your Aruban holiday.
Aruba is also home to Sea Glass Island, where a multitude of colorful sea glass can be found. Hence, you’ll find local artisans making one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces with sea glass in Aruba, some even offering tours and making personalized items using sea glass you collect yourself.
Palmera Rum
Palmera rum is locally produced in Aruba. It is made with sugar cane and is known for its smooth taste. You can choose from a variety of flavors like coconut, banana, and pineapple, to suit the tastes of those who’ll be receiving a bottle or two back home.
Gourmet Chocolate
Chocolate is always a safe bet when shopping for souvenirs, and when it comes to high-quality chocolates, Aruba doesn’t disappoint. Traces of Dutch culture and tradition are evident on the island’s souvenir offerings, and among them is Dutch chocolate. With the Netherlands’ renowned history of exceptional chocolate craftsmanship, you can be sure that the chocolate you’ll bring home will be among the most delectable you and your loved ones will ever have.
Stroopwafels
Another Aruban delicacy of Dutch origin that you can get and enjoy when you get back home are stroopwafels. A package or two of these thin, crispy waffles are perfect gifts for friends who enjoy coffee or tea time with a sweet treat on the side.
Dutch Cheeses
Aside from chocolates and waffles, you can find a good selection of Dutch cheeses to bring home as well, such as gouda, limburger, and edam. You can bring home an entire wheel or get gift boxes to share with family and friends.
Hot Delight Papaya
Bring home a truly Aruban flavor with a bottle of Hot Delight Papaya, a spicy sauce made with madame Madame Jeanette peppers and made unique with the addition of native papayas. This all-natural sauce has just enough zing that can be enjoyed by many, so get a few bottles for yourself and for your friends.
Mopa-Mopa Art
Mopa-mopa art is made with the leaf buds of the mopa-mopa tree. This art form includes handcrafted ornaments, boxes, trays, masks, and other items that showcase Aruba’s craftsmanship. While they can be a bit pricey, mopa-mopa art pieces embody the rich culture of Aruba, which makes them unique souvenirs and a meaningful remembrance of your travel.
Aruba offers an unforgettable vacation experience, and when you stay at a VacationAruba partner rental, you get a taste of local hospitality and expertise that can make your trip even more memorable. Don’t forget to bring a gift or two back home, so your friends and loved ones can enjoy a piece of the pleasures of this One Happy Island, too.