Rainy Season in Aruba: What We Learned and What We’d Pack Next Time

Jess Barrera
Oct 4
3 min read

If you’ve ever planned a vacation only to realize you’ve booked during the rainy season in Aruba, don’t panic — we’ve been there! When we first booked our family trip, we pictured nothing but bright turquoise water and endless sunshine. Instead, we got a mix of both: blue skies one minute, quick tropical showers the next.

And honestly? It turned out to be one of our favorite trips. We learned a lot about traveling with kids during tropical weather — and what we’d do (and pack!) differently next time.

When Is the Rainy Season in Aruba?

Unlike other Caribbean islands, Aruba’s rainy season is pretty mild. It typically runs from October through December, and even then, it’s more like short bursts of warm showers rather than all-day rain.

The island’s dry climate means most rain passes quickly, often followed by sunshine and bright rainbows — which our kids loved spotting after each shower. Still, those pop-up storms can catch you off guard if you’re not prepared, especially if you’re exploring off the beaten path or heading to the beach early in the morning.

What We Learned About Traveling in Aruba’s Rainy Season

1. Plan flexible outdoor time.

Morning adventures were usually dry, while quick showers rolled in later in the afternoon. We adjusted easily by planning our beach or snorkeling time early and saving indoor fun — like gelato breaks or visiting the Butterfly Farm — for later in the day.

2. Always pack for “just in case.”

You don’t need a heavy-duty raincoat, but a few smart accessories make a huge difference. Lightweight gear, such as Lightweight Rain Jackets and Packable Rain Ponchos, kept us dry and comfortable without adding bulk to our bags.

3. Tropical showers = tropical bugs.

After the rain, mosquitos made a surprise appearance. Bug Spray and All Natural Anti-Itch Tea Tree Balm quickly became our unsung heroes.

4. Rainy afternoons are perfect for slowing down.

Instead of feeling disappointed when it rained, we leaned into it — watching the storm from our balcony, playing card games, and enjoying Aruba’s cozy side. It was a reminder that family travel doesn’t have to be go-go-go to be memorable.

What We’d Pack Next Time for Aruba’s Rainy Season

We came home with a mental checklist of what we’ll pack for our next tropical getaway — and it’s all about staying dry, bite-free, and ready for adventure.

Our updated Aruba rainy season packing list:

Lightweight Rain Jackets — Perfect for quick showers without overheating. These fold up easily and dry fast.
Packable Travel Umbrellas — Small enough to toss in a daypack and great for sudden bursts of rain.
Waterproof Bags — Keep phones, cameras, and snacks safe from splashes (and sand!).
All Natural Anti-Itch Tea Tree Balm — A must-have for tropical bug bites.
Bug Spray — Go for one that’s family-safe and DEET-free but still effective in humid conditions.

Bonus: Family-Friendly Rainy Day Activities in Aruba

If the rain lingers longer than expected, there’s still plenty to do with kids:

Visit the Butterfly Farm — peaceful, beautiful, and mostly covered.
Take a drive around the island to explore hidden beaches and colorful murals.
Stop at local cafes or smoothie bars — Aruba has some of the friendliest locals we’ve met.
Have a movie night in your hotel or VRBO with snacks and a tropical drink.

Our Takeaway

The Aruba rainy season taught us that a few raindrops don’t have to ruin a vacation — especially with the right mindset (and the right gear). The island still shines in every sense, and with these family travel tips for tropical weather, you’ll be ready for sunshine, showers, and everything in between.

So go ahead — pack the swimsuit and the umbrella. Your vacation to Aruba will still be magical.

Jess