11 Best Souvenirs from Aruba (And Where to Find Them!)

Bringing home a souvenir from Aruba is more than just picking up a trinket, it’s a meaningful way to relive your time on the island and share a piece of paradise with friends and family. Fortunately, if you’re drawn to handcrafted art, edible treats, or locally inspired items, there’s no shortage of unique souvenirs from Aruba to choose from.

If you’re wondering what to buy in Aruba, we’ve rounded up the island’s most beloved items, along with the best places to find them. From artisan markets to boutique shops, here’s your guide to the top Aruba souvenirs worth packing in your suitcase.

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1. Aloe Vera Products

Aloe vera has been cultivated in Aruba since the 1800s. It remains one of the island’s most beloved natural exports. The plant thrives in Aruba’s dry climate and volcanic soil, producing especially potent gel. Locally made aloe products include skincare lotions, after-sun gels, shampoos, and even lip balms. They’re a thoughtful gift for anyone who appreciates natural beauty products, or who just got a little too much sun!

Where to Buy:

• Aruba Aloe Factory, Museum & Store (Hato): Take a free tour and shop the freshest products right at the source.
• Aruba Aloe retail shops: Locations in Palm Beach, Oranjestad, and the airport.
• Supermarkets like Super Food Plaza and Ling & Sons: Limited selection of aloe products at lower prices.

2. Aruban Hot Sauce (Pica di Papaya)

Pica di Papaya is Aruba’s signature hot sauce, made with green papaya, scotch bonnet peppers, and local spices. It’s sweet, spicy, and bursting with island flavor. Every restaurant has its own version, and many locals swear by their favorite brand. A bottle or two makes a great gift for spice lovers and an easy way to bring a taste of Aruba to your home-cooked meals.

Where to Buy:

• Doña Lisa, Pica di Caribe, and Hot Delight Papaya are the most popular local brands.
• Super Food Plaza, Ling & Sons, and Kong Hing Supermarket: Stock all major brands and often have sample packs.
• Aruba Airport gift shops: Perfect for last-minute hot sauce grabs.

3. Dutch Treats (Stroopwafels and Cheese)

As part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Aruba offers a taste of Europe in the Caribbean. Stroopwafels, thin waffle cookies filled with caramel syrup, are a favorite Dutch snack and perfect for pairing with coffee or tea. You’ll also find wheels and wedges of Gouda and Edam cheese, often vacuum-sealed for travel. They’re perfect Aruba souvenirs for foodies and culture buffs.

Where to Buy:

• Super Food Plaza: A large Dutch grocery store with a wide variety of stroopwafels, cheeses, and Dutch licorice.
• Ling & Sons Food Market: Well-stocked grocery with Dutch snacks and European imports.
• Duty-free shops at Aruba Airport: For sealed cheese and snack tins.

4. Aruban Rum and Liquor

Aruba’s tropical climate lends itself to island-distilled spirits like rum and local liqueurs. One standout is Coecoei, a red, rum-based liquor flavored with agave and local spices, often used in Aruba Ariba cocktails. Other popular options include Palmera Rum and Ponche Caribe (a creamy Caribbean eggnog-like drink). These make a great gift or addition to your home bar.

Where to Buy:

• Aruba Trading Company (Oranjestad): Offers an excellent selection of local and imported spirits.
• Any major supermarket: Super Food Plaza and Ling & Sons usually have the best prices.
• Duty-free shops at the airport: Great for spirits; limits may apply when traveling.

5. Handmade Jewelry

One of my personal favorites is locally made jewelry in Aruba. It often incorporates materials like driftwood, coral (ethically sourced), shells, and larimar, a rare blue stone found only in the Caribbean. You’ll also find artisan pieces made with Dutch Delft beads or recycled sea glass. These one-of-a-kind creations make beautiful, wearable souvenirs and meaningful gifts.

Where to Buy:

• The Local Market (Oranjestad): Located right across the street from the cruise ship terminal.
• The Artists Co-Op Made in Aruba (Paseo Herencia Mall): One-of-a-kind, handcrafted jewelry by local artists.
• Aruba Art Fair (San Nicolas): If you’re lucky enough to be in town during this event, it’s a goldmine for local craft and jewelry.

6. Delft Blue Ceramics

Delftware is the iconic blue-and-white pottery from the Netherlands. It often features windmills, tulips, or traditional Dutch scenes. Aruba adds a twist to this tradition with island-inspired designs and souvenir pieces like clogs, magnets, plates, and tiles. Delft ceramics are classic and deeply tied to the island’s Dutch heritage.

Where to Buy:

• Royal Plaza Mall (Oranjestad): A few shops carry authentic Delftware.
• Champagne (Renaissance Marketplace): Offers Delft-style items with an Aruban flair.
• Aruba Airport gift shops: Stock travel-sized items, great for easy packing.

7. Locally Roasted Coffee

Though Aruba doesn’t grow coffee beans, it does roast and blend them locally. Aruba’s coffee culture has grown in recent years, and local roasters offer rich blends that reflect the island’s laid-back beach vibe. Some blends are inspired by Caribbean flavors like coconut, rum, or vanilla, and many cafes sell their beans so you can take a little of that daily island brew home.

Where to Buy:

• Santos Coffee with Soul: Local roaster with several coffee shop locations; beans available for purchase.
• Island Grind Coffee: Small-batch roaster with unique blends and cute souvenir bags.
• Super Food Plaza and other supermarkets: Sometimes carry local blends near the gourmet or gift sections.

8. Aruban Art and Prints

Aruba’s landscapes, wildlife, and culture inspire many talented local artists. From watercolors of Divi Divi trees to bold street art prints and handmade driftwood signs, art is a beautiful way to remember the island. Many pieces are lightweight and packable, making them great to take home as a souvenir from Aruba.

Where to Buy:

• The Artists Co-Op Made in Aruba (Paseo Herencia Mall): Features local artists and a wide variety of media.
• The Local Market (Palm Beach): Weekly artisan market with rotating art vendors.
• Aruba Art Fair (San Nicolas): A must-visit if it’s happening during your trip.

9. Hand-Carved Driftwood and Shell Decor

With so much coastline, it’s no surprise that Aruba has mastered beachy home décor. Hand-carved driftwood signs, coasters, and ornaments are commonly available, often etched with sayings like “One Happy Island.” These pieces bring a relaxed coastal feeling to your home and are often handmade by local artisans.

Where to Buy:

• Local artisan stands in Palm Beach or Eagle Beach: Often set up near high-rise hotels in the evenings.
• The Local Market: Held regularly near Paseo Herencia or Hyatt Regency.
• The Artists Co-Op Made in Aruba (Paseo Herencia Mall): Features local artists and a wide variety of media, including driftwood.

10. Souvenir Clothing and Accessories

If it’s a breezy sundress, Aruba baseball cap, beach bag, or colorful sarong you’re looking for, you’re in luck. You’ll find plenty of wearable souvenirs in Aruba. These are fun, functional reminders of your trip, and a great way to show off your love of Aruba once you’re back home.

Where to Buy:

• Souvenir shops on L.G. Smith Blvd (Oranjestad): Lots of options, from budget to boutique.
• Palm Beach Plaza Mall and Paseo Herencia: Stylish shops with Aruba-branded resort wear.
• Hotel gift shops: Convenient and often have exclusive designs.

11. Aruba Sand and Sea Keepsakes

Want to bring home a literal piece of the island? Locally crafted keepsakes filled with Aruba sand or small shells can be found in keychains, necklaces, or small bottles. These souvenirs are simple, lightweight, and symbolic making them perfect for those who felt truly connected to Aruba’s beaches.

Remember, while some Aruban souvenirs may be made with these items, you can’t actually take sea shells or sand directly from the beach. You will be stopped by customs.

Where to Buy:

• The Artists Co-Op Made in Aruba (Paseo Herencia Mall): Local art made from a variety of materials.
• Etsy (Aruba-based sellers): If you forgot to pick one up during your trip.
• Palm Beach vendor stands: Check beachside markets and artisan booths.

Final Tips for Souvenir Shopping in Aruba

Bringing back souvenirs from Aruba lets you carry a piece of the island’s sunshine with you and share it with those back home. If you’re looking for flavor, flair, or fine art, the shops and markets of Aruba have something just for you. To help you find the perfect Aruba souvenir, here are some helpful tips.

• Support local whenever possible. Look for the “Aruba Certified Local Seal” at stores like The Artist Co-Op to ensure your souvenirs are genuinely made by Aruban artisans.
• Supermarkets like Super Food Plaza and Ling & Sons are hidden gems for edible souvenirs like hot sauce, Dutch snacks, and rum.
• If you’re short on time, the airport gift shops offer a wide variety of popular souvenirs, though prices may be slightly higher.
• Markets and festivals like The Local Market and Aruba Art Fair are the best places to meet artists in person and score unique, handmade goods.
• Pop-up shops at resorts often feature local artisans and their work. Swing by and check out what they have available.