Things to Do in Aruba When It Rains (Locals’ Rainy Day List)

First, the good news: Aruba is one of the driest islands in the Caribbean and sits outside the main hurricane belt. Most rain comes as short, heavy showers between October and January, and the sun is usually back within the hour. So the best rainy-day plan is often simply to wait it out under a palapa with a drink.

But if the clouds stick around, here is what locals actually do.

Quick list: rainy day ideas in Aruba

1. Go underwater on a submarine trip

Rain does not matter 100 feet down. The Atlantis Submarine leaves from Oranjestad and visits a shipwreck and reef without anyone getting wet. One of the best family options on the island.

2. Try your luck at a casino

Aruba has more casinos than you would expect for its size, many inside the Palm Beach resorts and in downtown Oranjestad. See our Aruba casino guide for which ones are worth it.

3. Shop in Oranjestad or Palm Beach

The covered malls along the Oranjestad waterfront and the shopping centers on the Palm Beach strip are perfect for a wet afternoon. Our Aruba shopping guide covers what is worth buying and what is cheaper at home.

4. Take the aloe factory tour

Aruba has grown aloe for well over a century. The aloe factory in Hato offers short guided tours through production, with a shop at the end. It is quick, mostly under a roof, and a nice local story.

5. Visit a museum in Oranjestad

The capital has several small museums covering Aruba’s archaeology, history and culture. Combine one with lunch downtown. Our Oranjestad guide lists what is close together.

6. Book a spa afternoon

Most big Palm Beach and Eagle Beach resorts have spas open to outside guests. A rainy day is the perfect excuse for a massage. Call ahead: rainy afternoons fill up fast.

7. Catch a movie

There are cinemas in Oranjestad and on the Palm Beach strip showing the latest Hollywood releases, usually in English with subtitles.

8. Turn lunch into an event

A long lunch is the most Aruban answer to rain. Try local dishes like keshi yena or fresh fish. Start with our Aruba food guide or where locals eat.

9. Go on a jeep tour anyway

A light shower is no problem on a jeep tour, and the desert looks greener after rain. The caves of Arikok are covered, too. Ask your guide: if the weather is really bad, tours usually reschedule.

10. Drive the island

With a car, a gray morning is a good time for a scenic drive, since the sun usually breaks through by the time you reach the next stop. Follow our Aruba road trip loop.

11. Snorkel or dive

If it is warm rain without lightning, the sea does not care. Visibility can drop for a while after heavy showers, but calm spots like Mangel Halto or the best snorkel spots often stay good. Always skip the water when there is thunder.

12. Just wait an hour

Seriously. Check the radar, order a drink and watch the storm pass over the sea. Most Aruba showers are gone before your second round.

When does it rain in Aruba?

The wettest months are October to January, but even then rain usually comes in short bursts. February to September is mostly dry. See the best time to visit Aruba and our month guides such as Aruba in November and Aruba in December.

FAQ

Does it rain a lot in Aruba?

No. Aruba gets very little rain compared with most Caribbean islands, and it is outside the main hurricane belt.

Will tours be canceled if it rains?

Boat trips may be canceled for strong wind or storms. Light rain rarely stops jeep or island tours. Operators usually reschedule or refund if they cancel.

What is the rainy season in Aruba?

Roughly October to January, with short showers rather than all-day rain.