Aruba currency facts every traveller should know

Planning a trip to the sunny island of Aruba, nestled in the southern Caribbean? Then you’ll want to get familiar with the Aruba currency before you go. 

Aruba may be part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, but it has its own currency, the Aruban florin (AWG), which sits comfortably alongside the US dollar. 

Both are widely accepted, making spending on this Caribbean island refreshingly simple for visitors.

What is the official currency of Aruba?

The official currency of Aruba is the Aruban florin.

It’s been in legal tender since 1986, when it was introduced 1986 replacing the Netherlands Antillean guilder after Aruba gained its status aparte within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. 

The Centrale Bank van Aruba, the island’s central bank, oversees the issuance and management of the currency, keeping it pegged to the US dollar to ensure financial stability. 

This makes it easier for both businesses and visitors to plan and spend with confidence.

The history behind Aruba’s unique florin 

Aruba’s florin was created as part of the island’s move toward greater autonomy. 

During the colonial period, the island used the Netherlands Antillean guilder, but once Aruba separated from the Dutch Antilles, it introduced the florin as its own currency.

The florin was introduced to reflect Aruba’s growing identity as a destination with its own economy and culture while remaining within the broader Kingdom of the Netherlands. 

Today, the Central Bank manages the currency in circulation and ensures that the exchange rate remains stable, a move that’s kept the local currency strong for many years.

Aruba currency symbol, code, and denominations

The Aruban florin symbol is Afl. or sometimes ƒ, and the Aruba currency code is AWG. 

The florin is subdivided into 100 cents, just like the US dollar.

Aruba’s banknotes are colourful, featuring native wildlife and cultural symbols, while the coins come in distinctive shapes, including the square 50-cent piece. 

These modern designs were developed under the guidance of the Centrale Bank van Aruba, giving the Aruban florin a truly local look and feel.

Common denominations include:

• Banknotes: 10, 25, 50, 100, and 200 florins
• Coins: 5, 10, 25, and 50 cents, plus 1, 2½, and 5 florin pieces
  

Keep in mind that coins and banknotes are both accepted everywhere, from supermarkets to restaurants and shops.

Aruban florin: Coins, banknotes, and exchange rate

When you visit Aruba, you’ll find both coins and banknotes in circulation, each celebrating the island’s heritage. 

Designs are updated periodically to highlight important landmarks like Arikok National Park and local wildlife.

In terms of value, the Aruban florin exchange rate is pegged to the US dollar at a fixed rate of 1 USD = 1.79 AWG. 

That means Aruba currency exchange rates remain stable year-round, so there’s no need to worry about sudden fluctuations. This fixed rate helps visitors, businesses, and the government alike. 

When planning your travel, you can easily make an Aruba currency conversion online with Manor FX before you go. 

Many travellers prefer to bring a mix of cash and card for convenience, especially when budgeting for food, souvenirs, or exploring the island’s markets.

Spending and using cash in Aruba

Getting and using cash on the island is simple. You can find ATMs in the airport, hotels, and towns, and major banks offer reliable currency exchange services. 

If you arrive with US dollars, you can spend them in many places; they’re widely accepted alongside the Aruban florin currency. 

Aruba currency exchange can also be done at banks, most supermarkets, or the airport if you need a quick top-up of cash… but the exchange rates and fees will mean you get a less good deal.

Credit and debit cards are fine to use in many restaurants, shops, and petrol stations, though smaller local businesses might prefer cash.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Most places include service charges, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip in florins is always welcome. 

Best currency for Aruba travel plans

If you’re wondering about the best currency for Aruba, both USD and Aruban florins work fine. However, for local markets and smaller shops, it’s often easier to pay with florins.

USD are handy for convenience, but change is often given in Afl., so having local currency avoids confusion. 

For smooth travel plans, it’s smart to carry both. You can always withdraw cash locally or use ATM machines once you arrive.

Using cards and ATMs abroad

Major credit cards like Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in Aruba. Just make sure to contact your bank before travelling abroad to avoid unexpected blocks or fees.

ATM machines accept international cards, and withdrawals are usually dispensed in florins. Fees vary depending on your account, so check in advance. 

For peace of mind, always keep a small amount of cash on hand; some smaller shops may not take cards.

If you return with leftover cash, we’ll convert Aruba currency to GBP at great exchange rates.

Where your money goes – spending locally

Supporting local businesses is a great way to give back to the community while enjoying authentic Aruban experiences. 

Whether you’re dining at eateries, filling up at gas stations, or buying souvenirs in shops, using the local currency keeps your money circulating within the island’s economy. 

From Eagle Beach to bustling markets, there’s plenty to explore, and paying in florins helps you blend in like a local.

How to get your currency with Manor FX

Getting your Aruba currency before your trip is simple and secure with Manor FX. 

Here’s how it works:

1. Choose your currency

Select Aruban florin (AWG) from the list of available currencies and enter how much you’d like to buy in pounds.

2. Pick delivery or collection

Opt for insured home delivery to your door or collect from our London location, whichever suits your travel plans best.

3. Check your rate

See your live Aruba currency exchange rate and confirm exactly how many florins you’ll receive before you pay.

4. Add your details

Fill in your name, contact information, and delivery address.

5. Set your date and pay

Choose when you’d like your cash delivered. Orders placed before 2 p.m. on a working day are often delivered the next day.

6. Relax and prepare to explore

Your Aruba currency arrives quickly and securely, ready for everything from beachside cocktails to exploring Arikok National Park.

Ordering Aruban florins online before you fly means you can skip airport queues and terrible exchange rates, and arrive ready to enjoy the island.

Useful tips for visiting Aruba

• Always carry some cash for local spots.
• Be aware of your card provider’s international fees.
• The island’s exchange rates are steady, but check before you travel.
• Spend locally where possible; it supports businesses and keeps your experience authentic.

Takeaways

To recap: the currency in Aruba Caribbean is the Aruban florin (AWG), the official currency managed by the Centrale Bank van Aruba and pegged to the USD.  

You can use both florins and USD across the island, with coins and banknotes in colourful designs that reflect Aruba’s spirit.

For an easy start to your holiday, order your Aruba currency online with Manor FX, the hassle-free way to get your cash sorted before you set off.

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