Aruba vs Belize: Which is better for your next vacation in 2026
Are you trying to decide between Aruba vs Belize for your next vacation? You’re in the right place, and these two islands are both great options to consider!
Both countries offer beautiful beaches, crystal-clear Caribbean waters, and plenty of activities to keep you entertained during your stay. But before you decide which one is right for you, it’s important to understand the differences between them.
I’ve spent time on tons of beaches in the Caribbean, and each offers its own unique vibes. Aruba and Belize in particular offer some incredible, thrill-seeking adventures. Let’s find out which one is best for you!
No time? Here are some fast facts about Aruba vs Belize.
Overall, Aruba is best for vacationers looking to kick back and relax with their feet in the sand, and enjoy incredible weather. Belize is best for a subtropical vacation full of adventuring through caves and ziplining through the forest.
| Who has better beaches? | Aruba |
| Better for snorkeling and diving? | Belize |
| Which island is safer? | Aruba |
| Which island is cheaper? | Belize |
About Aruba vs Belize
Aruba is the perfect destination if you’re looking for a lounge-type beach vacation – with white sandy beaches, sky-blue waters, and plenty of sunshine! The island offers excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities as well. Plus, water sports such as windsurfing or parasailing.
If that’s not enough for you, there are also lots of bars and restaurants offering delicious local food. Aruba is a popular island for clubs and nightlife opportunities. In addition, Arubans are known for their hospitality so expect warm welcomes wherever you go!
On the other hand, if what you’re after is more activity and variety on your trip then Belize might be a better option. In Belize, visitors can explore ancient Mayan ruins scattered around the country or participate in thrilling adventure tours like cave tubing through underground rivers or zip lining over jungle canopy tops!
There’s also some incredible wildlife here including jaguars, howler monkeys (also known as baboons), and the iconic toucans. And if you’re in the mood for a beach day or two, Belize also has some stunning beaches around its coastline.
Honestly, both Aruba and Belize are great options for your next vacation. You’ll find beauty and excitement on each island destination!
Aruba is a part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The country is located in the Caribbean Sea, about 18 miles (29 km) off the coast of Venezuela and 50 miles (80 km) northwest of Curaçao, and nearby Bonaire as well!
Belize is an independent nation on the eastern coast of Central America. It borders the eastern Caribbean Sea, Mexico to the north, and Guatemala (and a dense jungle – similar to Jamaica and St Kitts) to the west.
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Aruba vs Belize: Which is larger?
Aruba is much smaller in size than Belize. Aruba covers an area of 69 square miles (180 sq km) while Belize spreads over 8,867 square miles (22,966 sq km). Thus, Belize is much larger than Aruba and offers more opportunities to explore.
Offshore from the coast lies the massive Belize Barrier Reef which contains hundreds of low-lying islands called cays that provide rich marine life for visitors to experience.
With so many areas to explore and its size advantage, it’s no surprise that Belize offers plenty of activities and adventures for vacationers looking for something bigger!
Additionally, the population of Belize is larger than Aruba. Belize is home to approximately 416,875 residents as of 2023. Aruba is home to about 1/4 of that at 106,277 residents according to United Nations estimates.
Aruba vs Belize: Which is larger?
Belize
Currency
The official local currency in Aruba is the Aruban Guilder (AWG); it’s fixed to the US dollar at 1.80 AWG to 1 US dollar. US dollars are accepted throughout Aruba.
Aruba Florin to US Dollar Exchange rate:
1 Aruba Florin = 0.5546 US Dollar | 1.8 Aruba Florin = 1 US Dollar
The official currency of Belize is the Belize dollar (BZD or BZ$). It’s fixed to the US dollar at 2 BZD to 1 US dollar. US dollars are accepted throughout Belize.
Belize dollar to US dollar exchange rate:
1 BZD = 0.5 US Dollar | 2 BZD = 1 US Dollar
Languages
Not to worry, because both islands rely heavily on tourism from around the world, English is spoken just about everywhere!
However, when it comes to languages, Aruba and Belize have some similarities and differences. Both countries are located in the Caribbean region, yet their respective official languages differ greatly.
In Aruba, the official language is Papiamento while Dutch and Spanish are also widely spoken. Meanwhile, English is the sole official language of Belize but there are other languages spoken as well such as Spanish, Q’eqchi’ Maya, and Belizean Creole.
In Aruba, most residents can speak multiple languages including English which helps visitors feel at home when visiting the island nation.
The majority of locals on the island will be able to communicate with you in either Papiamento or Dutch so there’s no need to worry about language barriers during your stay! Additionally, many people who live in Aruba also understand Spanish due to its close proximity to Venezuela and other Latin American countries.
Meanwhile, in Belize, almost everyone speaks English since it’s the country’s only official language so communication shouldn’t be a problem here either!
However, if you find yourself wanting more diversity then learning some basic phrases of Spanish or one of the indigenous dialects might come in handy too. They may be heard around the off-touristy paths around the island.
Do you need a passport to go to Aruba?
To visit Aruba, you must have a U.S. passport valid for the duration of your stay.
Visiting Aruba also requires more than just a valid U.S. passport; travelers must also have a completed Embarkation and Disembarkation Card (ED-Card).
This card can be obtained from the airline on departure or upon arrival in Aruba. Additionally, visitors must be able to present a return or onward ticket when entering.
Do you need a passport to go to Belize?
To visit Belize, you must have a U.S. passport valid for the length of your stay, proof of an onward or return ticket, and the money needed to cover the duration of your visit.
If you enter Belize by land, you will be charged different fees based on the length of your stay.
U.S. citizens traveling with minors should be able to show U.S. birth certificates for each child. If your child is traveling without you, they may request signed documentation to ensure the parents know that their child is traveling.
Which is easier to get to?
Belize is slightly closer to the United States than Aruba, but not by much. Getting to Belize from the east coast will take about an hour less than going to Aruba.
Direct flights to Belize range from $500-$1000 and leave from a few airports. Most direct flights from US to Belize will take 2-3 hours.
- Houston
- Atlanta
- Miami
- Dallas
Direct flights to Aruba are slightly more expensive, ranging from $700-$1200 and will take 3-4 hours. However, there are more non-stop flights from the US to Aruba than to Belize. This might give you slightly more flexibility.
- New York
- Boston
- Philadelphia
- Miami
- Atlanta
Which is easier to get to?
Belize is a slightly shorter flight from the east coast.
But, there are more daily flights to Aruba
Aruba vs Belize: Who has better beaches?
Aruba is my pick for best beaches due to the long stretches of white sand and impeccable year-round weather.
When it comes to beaches, Belize and Aruba offer stunning coastlines with plenty of activities and relaxation. However, the type of beach experience that each destination offers is quite different from one another.
Aruba has a much flatter terrain than Belize and provides a dry climate. This makes it perfect for those who prefer relaxing on beautiful beaches without too many distractions. That doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of off-road Jeep opportunities to take advantage of!
Tourists flock to Eagle Beach and Palm Beach throughout the year to walk along the soft, white sand.
Although Aruba does have some outdoor activities like exciting ATV tours and kayaking available to tourists, most people come here just to relax by the sea under the warm Caribbean sun all day long.
Furthermore, Aruba’s commercialization means that there are plenty of restaurants and bars close by for convenience. You also won’t have a problem finding a beachfront hotel or resort in Aruba for easy access to the beach.
Belize is known for its unique white sandy beaches and crystal clear water along the Caribbean Sea.
However, the country is better known for its ancient Mayan ruins, jungles, caves, rivers, and more in this diverse landscape, similar to St Kitts. On top of that, there are also a variety of cays and low-lying islands, which are great for exploration like snorkeling and diving adventures with rich marine life.
Who has better beaches?
Aruba
Popular beaches Aruba
- Palm Beach – the main resort strip
- Eagle Beach – quieter than Palm Beach, but near plenty of activities and restaurants
- Mangel Halto Beach – great for being alone!
- Malmok Beach – best for snorkeling off-shore
- Arashi Beach – one of my favorites; absolutely pristine!
Popular beaches in Belize
- Placencia Beach – protected under the barrier reef
- Half Moon Cay – clearest water in Belize
- Ambergris Caye – 25 miles long, largest caye in Belize
- South Water Caye – a marine reserve
Aruba vs Belize: Which is better for snorkeling and diving?
When considering which destination is better for snorkeling, Belize definitely has the advantage. With its large barrier reefs and plentiful amounts of coral with a variety of fish, the diving and snorkeling experience in Belize is beyond comparison.
Belize is well-known for the Belize Barrier Reef and snorkeling opportunities around the over 400 cayes surrounding the island. Additionally, Belize has better opportunities for snorkeling offshore compared to Aruba.
However, Aruba still has plenty to explore underwater. Snorkeling tours in Aruba usually stop at the old Antilla shipwreck and Malmok Reef, offering plenty of exciting opportunities for exploration.
Aruba vs Belize: Which is better for snorkeling and diving?
Belize
Which island has better weather?
When it comes to weather, both Aruba and Belize offer stunning climates that make them popular tourist destinations. But what sets the two apart is their average temperature and amount of rainfall.
Aruba has a dry climate with highs in the 90s (June-August) and lows in the 70s (December, January, February) throughout the year. This makes it perfect for sunbathing and relaxing on the beaches without much worry of rain.
Most importantly, Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao are located outside the Caribbean’s hurricane belt so you won’t have to worry about inclement weather during your stay (even in August and October!).
On the other hand, Belize has a subtropical climate with an average temperature ranging from 75°F (24°C) to 85°F (29°C). Additionally, Belize gets more rainfall than Aruba, which is why the best time to visit would be during their dry season from January through April.
So when it comes down to it, Aruba has better overall weather than Belize, even during the worst months. It offers warmer temperatures, less rainfall, and is located outside of the hurricane belt so you can plan your trip with more assurance of sunny skies!
Who has better weather, Belize or Aruba?
Aruba is located off the hurricane belt and has better year-round weather.
Aruba vs Belize: Which island is safer?
Aruba is one of the safest locations in the Caribbean. Visitors, myself included, generally feel very safe taking normal precautions when traveling around Aruba. Violent crime rates are low, with petty theft being the largest concern.
Is Belize safe? In contrast to Aruba, Belize is a much more dangerous destination. The United States State Department labels Belize as Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution. In Belize, visitors should be aware of the risks posed by human trafficking, gang activities, and murders.
When it comes to safety, there are things to avoid in Aruba and Belize. But, Aruba is certainly a safer option for travelers looking to stay out of harm’s way.
What should you avoid in Aruba and Belize?
- Avoid staying in ungated and unsecured neighborhoods or rentals
- Always lock doors to hotel rooms and rental cars; never leave valuables within sight
- Never carry around valuable jewelry, items, or too much cash
- Avoid sunburn, sickness, and dehydration by drinking filtered water and plenty of reef-safe sunscreen.
Which island is safer?
Aruba
Which is cheaper, Belize or Aruba?
Belize is going to be much cheaper than Aruba.
Aruba offers a luxurious experience for couples looking for an escape from everyday life. Hotels on the island range from five-star resorts with all of the amenities one could ask for, to smaller boutique inns that still offer a comfortable stay without breaking the bank.
However, these luxuries come at a price – hotel rooms can be very expensive compared to Belize. Additionally, many activities offered on the island such as boat trips or spa treatments also tend to be more costly than those found elsewhere.
In comparison, Belize may not have quite as much luxury but it does feature some excellent hotels and resorts at reasonable prices which make it attractive for travelers who want an affordable getaway.
And you’ll still have access to great beaches and attractions. Belize still offers plenty of opportunities for travelers to explore its natural beauty, from the beaches and lagoons to the rainforests and caves.
Furthermore, food costs are lower in Belize than in Aruba, allowing visitors to save even more money while still enjoying delicious cuisine.
Belize vs Aruba: Which island is cheaper?
Belize
Who has better nightlife?
When it comes to nightlife, Aruba and Belize offer two distinct experiences. Aruba is known for its bustling nightlife with clubs, fun dining, and partying opportunities while Belize is much quieter but still provides beach bars and live music. Both countries share a drinking age of 18 years old.
Aruba’s Palm Beach strip offers visitors an array of resorts, tourist attractions, all-inclusive packages, casinos, and lounges right on the beachfront. Singles and large groups alike will have fun in Aruba after dark.
For those looking to dance the night away or party until sunrise there are plenty of options available such as 7 Club Lounge which features Caribbean music played by local DJs in an open-air setting with a beautiful view of the ocean.
In contrast, Belize’s nightlife is much more low-key. While San Pedro in Ambergris Caye is the place to look for beach bars and nightlife options, they are usually more relaxed settings with a laidback atmosphere. Jaguar’s Temple is a popular nightclub in the area. Music fans will enjoy the jazz music at Mambo Restaurant and Elivis’s Kitchen.
Aruba vs Belize: Who has better nightlife?
Aruba
Where to stay in Aruba
- Wonders Boutique Hotel in Oranjestad downtown ⭐ 9.5/10 Exceptional!
- Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort on Eagle Beach ⭐ 9.6/10 | Exceptional
Where to stay in Belize
- Chabil Mar Luxury Villas on the Placencia Peninsula ⭐ 9.8/10 | Exceptional
- Beachfront Condo with a Pool in San Pedro downtown ⭐ 4.8/10 | Wonderful!
FAQ
What island is better than Aruba?
To take “relaxation” to a higher, luxurious degree, consider heading to Turks and Caicos. St John, USVI is a great option for vacationers looking for a quiet and romantic island. For a more off-the-beaten-path adventure in the Caribbean, you might want to plan for a vacation in Curaçao.
Is Costa Rica better than Belize?
For a more relaxing beach vacation, Belize is a better vacation choice compared to Costa Rica. Both offer great activities and jungle adventures, but Costa Rica has a slight edge over Belize. However, if you’re looking for affordability, Belize will be cheaper than Costa Rica.
Is Aruba worth seeing?
Aruba is worth visiting because of its pristine beaches and waters. Combine that with the warmer-than-average temperatures and drier climate compared to other choices in the Caribbean.
Additionally, Aruba is one of the safest places to visit making this a top pick for an overall relaxing Caribbean vacation. Whether you’re looking to spend 3 days in Aruba or your entire honeymoon, it is definitely worth seeing.
Which is better Aruba or Turks and Caicos?
Turks and Caicos is known as a more luxurious island vacation, so some people may agree that Turks and Caicos is nicer than Aruba.
Choosing between Aruba vs Turks and Caicos comes down to what you’re looking for in a vacation. Aruba is filled with beautiful beaches, exciting nightlife, and activities and excursions around every corner. Turks and Caicos is known as a peaceful and relaxing island of luxury, but also has plenty of land to be explored and things to enjoy.
Both islands have great weather, but it depends on what time of year you want to go! So, just decide what’s most important to you and make your choice!
Aruba is the clear winner when it comes to nightlife, but Turks and Caicos offers a more luxurious experience. Whatever you choose, you’ll have an incredible Caribbean experience on your next vacation.
Is Aruba or St Lucia better?
Aruba’s warmer and dry climate away from the hurricane belt can’t be beat! Overall, if your priority is the beaches and crystal clear waters, then Aruba should be your choice. If you prefer island adventures, then you’ll want to choose St. Lucia. St. Lucia is also more affordable than Aruba.
Is Aruba the safest Caribbean island?
Aruba is one of the safest Caribbean islands. Violent crime rates are low and petty theft is the largest concern. Additionally, consuming the food and water in Aruba is relatively safe compared to other islands.
In terms of the safest Caribbean islands, along with Aruba, St. Barts, Cayman Islands, and St Thomas and St John in the US Virgin Islands all come out on top.
Why is Aruba so popular?
Aruba is such a popular place to visit because of the world-class beaches and turquoise waters. Additionally, it’s located away from the hurricane belt leading to warm temperatures and a dry climate year-round. Lasty, Aruba is one of the safest places to visit in the Caribbean.
What should I be careful of in Aruba?
Even though Aruba is one of the safest places to travel in the Caribbean, you should always be wary of petty theft and exercise increased caution in crowded areas. Don’t flaunt valuables and keep them secured and avoid remote areas at nighttime.
Are the beaches in Aruba swimmable?
The waters in Aruba are swimmable and perfect for not just swimming, but also snorkeling and diving. Some areas of Aruba may have strong currents that can be dangerous, so pay attention to the posted cautions.
What is the best month to go to Belize?
The best time to go to Belize is January through May to take advantage of their dry season. Belize has a subtropical climate with a wet season and a dry season.
Summary of Aruba vs Belize: Which is better?
So, which is better Aruba or Belize? Which is better for your next vacation? That’s up to you to decide! Aruba certainly has a leg up for weather and beaches. But if you’re an adventurous spirit looking to explore the wildlife and jungles of the Caribbean, Belize may be the better pick for you.
Overall, Aruba is best for vacationers looking to kick back and relax with their feet in the sand, and enjoy incredible weather. Belize is best for a subtropical vacation full of adventuring through caves and ziplining through the forest.
I hope this helped you decide so you can confidently book your next Caribbean vacation.
| Who has better beaches? | Aruba |
| Better for snorkeling and diving? | Belize |
| Which island is safer? | Aruba |
| Which island is cheaper? | Belize |
