Aruba isn’t just turquoise water and white sand — though let’s be honest, those are reason enough to go. But what really stuck with me during my visit in 2024 was the blend of Dutch-Caribbean culture, sunny island life, and unexpected finds tucked into side-street galleries and beach stalls.

Whether you’re shopping for friends, family, or a little reminder for yourself, here are 11 Aruba souvenirs I personally recommend — the kind you’ll actually want to bring home.

1. 🧴 Aruba Aloe Products

Aruba Aloe has been farming and bottling aloe since 1890 — and yes, it’s as soothing as you’d hope after a day in that fierce Caribbean sun. Their lotions, balms, and gels are 100% local, and you can even visit the factory.

Pro tip: The factory store in Hato is cheaper than buying at hotels or duty-free.

🛒 Where to buy: Aruba Aloe Factory & Museum (free tour!) or shops around Oranjestad

2. 🍹 Coecoei Liqueur & Local Rum

You can’t leave Aruba without a bottle of Coecoei, the bright red local liqueur used in the classic Aruba Ariba cocktail. Pair it with a bottle of Aruban rum and you’ve got instant beach party vibes.

Heads-up: Coecoei is hard to find outside the island — stock up while you can.

🛒 Where to buy: Local liquor stores or duty-free at Queen Beatrix Airport

3. 🌶️ Caribbean Hot Sauces

From fiery Madam Jeanette pepper blends to sweet mango-chili sauces, Aruba’s hot sauces pack a punch. I brought back a few bottles — and deeply regret not packing more.

🛒 Where to buy: Supermarkets like Super Food Plaza, or roadside stands near Eagle Beach

4. 💍 Handcrafted Jewelry

Sea glass, coral, volcanic rock — local artists turn Aruba’s natural textures into wearable art. I picked up a sea-glass necklace in San Nicolas that always gets comments.

Look for: Stamped or signed pieces to ensure it’s truly handmade.

🛒 Where to buy: Artisan stalls in Oranjestad or boutique shops near Palm Beach

5. 🧀 Dutch Cheese

Yes, you read that right. Aruba’s Dutch heritage means great Gouda and Edam, often in fun travel-sized wheels. Just remember: cheese gets heavy fast in a suitcase!

🛒 Where to buy: Super Food Plaza or Ling & Sons supermarket

6. 🪵 Driftwood & Coral Art

I came across wall hangings and table sculptures made from coral and weathered wood in a gallery near Palm Beach — and was amazed at how stylish they looked.

Note: Be careful about coral export restrictions — always check it’s sustainably sourced.

🛒 Where to buy: Galleries and stalls near Palm Beach and Oranjestad

7. 🎨 Local Paintings & Artwork

If you love bold, colorful island scenes — flamingos, beaches, sunsets — Aruba’s artists deliver. The Cosecha Art Gallery is a must-visit.

🛒 Where to buy: Cosecha (government-certified gallery) in Oranjestad or San Nicolas

8. 🧼 Handmade Soaps & Candles

Infused with coconut, hibiscus, or salt air, these are lightweight, fragrant, and suitcase-safe. Bonus: they make perfect gifts that don’t scream “tourist.”

🛒 Where to buy: Boutique shops and weekend artisan markets

9. 👚 Aruba-Themed Clothing

I’m not talking tacky tees — think breezy beachwear, flamingo-printed wraps, and even handmade sarongs. Great for when you’ve run out of clean clothes on holiday (true story).

🛒 Where to buy: Resort shops, boutiques near Eagle Beach, or local markets

10. 🐚 Shell & Sand Keepsakes

You’ll find tiny glass bottles filled with Aruba sand, shell art, and simple ocean-themed trinkets. These make sweet keepsakes or thoughtful gifts for kids.

Tip: You can legally take a small bottle of sand — but don’t pack half the beach.

🛒 Where to buy: Souvenir shops near the piers or beachside vendors

11. 🛍️ Local Crafts at Cosecha

Cosecha is Aruba’s official artisan collective, and everything there is 100% made on the island. Ceramics, textiles, jewelry — certified and high quality.

🛒 Where to buy: Cosecha galleries in Oranjestad or San Nicolas

✈️ Final Thoughts

Shopping in Aruba is delightfully relaxed — no aggressive vendors, no pressure, just warm smiles and a sea breeze. Whether it’s hot sauce or hand-thrown pottery, everything you bring home carries a little of that “Dushi Tera” (sweet land) spirit.

Have you bought something amazing in Aruba? Leave a comment below — I’d love to add reader picks to this list!

🙋‍♂️ About the Author

Colin is a souvenir collector, travel writer, and founder of SouvenirsIdeas.com. He’s on a mission to help travellers bring home keepsakes they won’t regret — including a questionable marzipan sombrero from Mexico City.