Last updated: August 9, 2026
Aruba in December is the island at full wattage: cloudless days, cool trade winds, and a festive buzz that runs from Sinterklaas to New Year’s fireworks. However, perfection has a price tag, and December is when Aruba charges it. So here is the honest breakdown, plus the tricks that soften the bill.
December weather: as good as it gets
Expect 82–86°F days, almost no rain, and steady breezes that make evenings genuinely pleasant. The sea stays warm from autumn, so swimming and snorkeling remain excellent. In short, this is the weather the brochures photograph.
What December really costs
Hotel rates peak in the last two weeks, often double the September price. Flights climb too, especially around the holidays. Therefore, book both as early as you can — and compare December rates on Agoda across several properties before committing. Early December, by contrast, still offers fair value.
The December calendar
- Sinterklaas arrives by boat in early December — a beloved Dutch-Caribbean tradition.
- Christmas brings dande music, ayaca parcels, and ponche crema.
- New Year’s Eve ends with fireworks over the beaches and the famous pagara firecracker ribbons.
- Tours sell out fastest this month, so book the catamaran and jeep days before you fly.
Should you book Aruba in December?
If budget is flexible, absolutely — the weather and atmosphere are unbeatable. However, if the price stings, our guides to November and January show nearly identical weather for meaningfully less. Either way, the month-by-month guide puts it all side by side.
