Top 10 Souvenirs to Bring Back from Aruba

When visiting the stunning Southern Caribbean island of Aruba, make sure to save some space in your budget and suitcase for a few souvenirs. Shopping in Aruba offers hours of delight, whether you're exploring vibrant flea markets, trendy malls, or simply popping into a beachside shop for gifts for your loved ones. Regardless of the adventures you embark on, you’ll be captivated by the fascinating variety of unique items available in Aruba. Thanks to its Dutch heritage and closeness to South America, the island showcases an eclectic mix of products catering to all budgets. Here are ten top picks that represent just a glimpse of the charming treasures you can find in Aruba.

1. Exquisite Ceramics

As a member of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Aruba is the perfect destination for acquiring exquisite European ceramics. Among the most sought-after is Delft Blue pottery, the renowned blue-and-white porcelain crafted in Holland since the 16th century. If you're in search of authentic Delftware, be sure to do your homework, ask knowledgeable questions, and look for the term 'Delfts Blauw' stamped on the base of the piece. You'll also find fine porcelain and china from Spain, England, and Germany in upscale shops. Additionally, various budget-friendly Delft-inspired plates, vases, tiles, and decorations are widely available throughout Aruba.

2. Aruba License Plates

As soon as you arrive in Aruba, you’ll notice Aruban license plates for sale in every souvenir shop and gift store. This is because Aruba is one of the few places globally where vehicle owners must change their license plates every year. Each newly issued plate features a unique design and color scheme, making older plates quite sought after by collectors. The ever-present slogan “One Happy Island” adds to their appeal, guaranteed to bring a smile and remind you of your time in Aruba.

3. Aloe Vera Products

Aruba is home to the world’s oldest aloe vera company, established in 1890. You can find a wide variety of skin, hair, and sun care products made from naturally soothing aloe cultivated on the island, available at various stores throughout Aruba. If you want to see how the locally grown aloe is processed into lotions, consider taking a free tour of an aloe museum in Hato. You’ll learn how significant the aloe plant is to Aruba’s history, having once been referred to as the “Island of Aloes,” and you can stock up on aloe-infused products that work wonders for sun-exposed skin.

4. Artisan Chocolates

Artisan Dutch chocolates are a favorite souvenir from Aruba, though many boxes might not survive the journey home. The Dutch have a rich tradition of chocolate-making, and you’ll find delightful samples and beautifully packaged gift boxes scattered throughout the island. Be sure to taste as many as you can to discover your personal favorite Dutch chocolate brands.

5. Fine Jewelry

Thanks to Aruba’s low sales tax, you can enjoy significant savings on luxury jewelry. Numerous high-end jewelers in Oranjestad and beyond offer exquisite pieces. If diamonds and Colombian emeralds aren’t what you’re looking for, you’ll find a wide variety of unique items at various price points, including handmade creations from local artisans readily available at market stalls and gift shops.

6. Dutch Cheeses

Thanks to its Dutch heritage, Aruba offers a delightful selection of cheeses, including uniquely Dutch varieties like mild Gouda, pungent Limburger, and Edam wrapped in its distinctive red wax. You can either purchase entire wheels of cheese or opt for gift boxes, perfect for friends who adore cheese.

7. Eco-Friendly Reusable Bag

For a fun, practical, affordable, and easy-to-pack souvenir, look for Aruba's famous reusable bags. Made from recycled plastic bottles, these washable bags come in vibrant designs showcasing Aruba's landmarks and motifs, including cave paintings, the iconic divi divi tree, and an Aruban license plate.

8. Mopa Mopa Art

Mopa mopa art, featuring handcrafted ornaments, boxes, trays, masks, and other decorative items, can be found in several specialty galleries across Aruba. Not only is this art visually captivating, but it also has a fascinating history. For centuries, artisans from an Amazonian tribe have created it by boiling the leaf buds of the mopa mopa tree to produce colorful resins. These resins are then carefully stretched and inlaid into wooden carvings, resulting in intricate and stunning patterns. While these pieces are often prized and pricey, smaller figurines make for a more budget-friendly and travel-friendly alternative.

9. Aruban T-Shirts

Aruba T-shirts, designed to cater to a variety of tourist preferences, are readily available in every souvenir shop and upscale clothing store. For a stylish and high-quality shirt produced by a local company, look for designs featuring playful images inspired by Aruba’s culture and scenery. Some designs showcase the national bird of Aruba, the shoco (burrowing owl), sporting sunglasses, while others highlight the island’s famous donkeys, pelicans, and marlin.

10. Stroopwafels

Indulge your sweet cravings by picking up a package or two of stroopwafels, a delightful Dutch treat that’s a favorite in Aruba. These thin, crispy waffles are filled with a sweet, cinnamon-infused caramel and are perfect for pairing with a cup of tea or coffee (the Dutch traditionally warm their stroopwafels over a steaming cup), crumbling them into ice cream, or simply enjoying as they are. You can easily find them in any grocery store, making them an excellent choice for an affordable, lightweight gift.

Note: Activities onboard, shore excursions, and dining options may vary by ship and destination.