Aruba’s beaches are often ranked as some of the best in the world, and it isn’t difficult to see why. Theisland’sF clear waters and warm, soft sand make it easy to relax, while the constant year-round sunshine keeps the days bright and inviting Holidaymakers can also engage in a variety of beach and aquatic activities to fill their days, allowing them to craft their own ideal Aruba getaway.
Another great way to enjoy Aruba’s beaches is by drinking like the locals do.. The island has no shortage of Aruban beverage options that make excellent companions to a day or evening by the sea. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing pick-me-up to cool you while lounging under the sun or a stronger drink for the perfect nightcap, here are some Aruban beverages you should definitely try:
Coconut Water
Few drinks capture the simplicity of island life quite like fresh coconut water. It needs no recipe or garnish, and its pure unprocessed taste makes it refreshing on a hot day. On Aruba’s beaches, coconut water is often sold from the fruit with a straw for easy sipping. Its mildly sweet liquid offers a refreshing burst of hydration, making it ideal if you’re spending long hours under the Caribbean sun.
Aloe-Based Juices
Aruba’s dry climate makes it an ideal home for aloe vera, a plant that has become one of the island’s most recognisable exports. While visitors may know it best as a soothing ingredient in lotions and gels, aloe also finds its way into the local drinks. Aloe-based juices usually combine the plant’s light, herbal notes with fruit or citrus, creating a refreshing flavor that stands apart from more familiar tropical options. For those who try it, the drink offers a taste that’s both restorative and delicately crisp, a quality that’s suited to the island’s warmth. Aloe-based juices are often enjoyed chilled, making them a particularly refreshing choice for a day on the sand.
Balashi Beer
Many destinations have a beer brand that reflects its local spirit, and in Aruba, that honour belongs to Balashi Beer. Brewed on the island using desalinated water, Balashi is a crisp pale lager designed for hot climates and easy drinking. Locals often order it at beach bars, where it pairs naturally with the laid-back pace of island afternoons. Its light body makes it the kind of beer you can enjoy without feeling weighed down, and because it’s brewed locally, it gives visitors a genuine taste of Aruba’s brewing culture. Best served ice-cold, Balashi Beer is a classic companion if you’re looking for a refreshing beverage to enjoy while soaking up the sun on the beach.
Aruba Ariba
No list of Aruban drinks would be complete without the island’s signature cocktail, the Aruba Ariba. Bright, colorful, and bold, it’s a mix of rum, vodka, fruit juices, and a splash of Coecoei, a local liqueur that gives the drink its distinct island identity. Served tall and often garnished with tropical fruit, Aruba Ariba offers a strong and lively flavor that’s unapologetically Aruban as its name suggests. It’s best enjoyed on a day in the sun, served over ice for a refreshing tropical pick-me-up.
Awa di Lamunchi
Awa di Lamunchi, which translates to “lime water,” is one of the simplest yet most beloved drinks prepared on the island. Made by mixing fresh lime juice with water and sugar, it’s a traditional homemade refreshment that has long been part of Aruban life. Its sharp tang balanced by sweetness makes it the perfect antidote to the heat, especially when served ice-cold. Unlike cocktails or imported drinks, Awa di Lamunchi carries with it a sense of home and family, as it’s often prepared in kitchens across the island.
Slippery Monkey
On the lighter side of Aruba’s cocktail culture is the Slippery Monkey. This frozen beverage features a mix of banana liqueur, Kahlúa, and piña colada. Its creamy sweetness makes it feel almost like a dessert in a glass, the kind of indulgence that fits easily into a day of relaxation. Though less traditional than other island drinks, it’s popular with visitors for its approachable flavour and playful presentation, making it a fun addition to any day at the beach.
Ponche Crema
Ponche Crema is Aruba’s version of eggnog. Made with rum, condensed milk, eggs, and warming spices, this beverage offers a flavour that’s rich and velvety, with a gentle sweetness that lingers on the palate.While it can be enjoyed at any time, Ponche Crema is best savoured in the evening or during cooling moments. Its creamy texture makes for a satisfying treat after a day in the sun, providing a comforting way to unwind.
Palmera Rum
Palmera Rum is one of Aruba’s homegrown spirits. Known for its smoothness and versatility, it offers a gentle warmth that makes it an ideal drink for a quiet evening. l. Locally distilled, this beverage can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as the foundation for a variety of cocktails. Its mellow, approachable flavour makes it an excellent companion after a meal or a relaxing choice at a bar.
Exploring Aruba’s signature beverages is a great way to experience the island. . Each drink has its own flavor that can elevate the island vibe you’re going for, whether it’s soaking up the sun on the beach or winding down for the evening.Many of the island’s best beach bars and restaurants serve these drinks year-round, so you won’t have to worry about missing out on the local experience. For easier access to these establishments, book a nearby vacation rental through VacationAruba today. We have a wide selection of properties located in popular areas like Gold Coast and Eagle Beach, all conveniently close to beaches, bars, and restaurants. Visit our contact page and fill out the form for more details.