Curaçao, Aruba or Bonaire? Price comparison and travel guide
Are you planning a vacation to the Caribbean and don’t know whether to choose Curaçao, Aruba or Bonaire? Although all three islands are part of the former group known as the ABC Islands, each has its own personality, costs and attractions. In this guide we’ll help you answer the big question: Is Curaçao cheaper than Aruba or Bonaire, as well as offer useful tips on lodging, transportation and what to see on each island.
Price comparison: Which island is more economical?
Curaçao is usually more affordable than Aruba, and in some respects also than Bonaire. Here is a breakdown of the average costs on each island:
| Concept | Curaçao | Aruba | Bonaire |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lodging | $$ | $$$$ | $$-$$$ |
| Local food | $ | $$ | $ |
| Car rental | $$ | $$$ | $$ |
| Activities | $$ | $$$ | $$ |
Conclusion: If you are on a tight budget, Curaçao and Bonaire are more pocket-friendly. Aruba tends to be more luxurious and expensive, especially in accommodations and tourist restaurants.
Getting around Curaçao, Aruba and Bonaire
Transportation in Curaçao
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Local buses (Konvoi): Inexpensive, but not very frequent. They work well for main routes.
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Private minivans: Faster and more direct than buses, ideal for medium distances.
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Car rental: Highly recommended if you wish to explore the island freely. Prices vary from $35/day.
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Cab: Expensive and do not use taximeter. Be sure to agree on the price beforehand.
Transportation in Aruba
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Public buses (Arubus): Efficient and with good coverage, ideal for tourists.
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Car or scooter rentals: Perfect for touring remote beaches.
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Cabs: Fixed rates, more expensive than in Curaçao.
Transportation in Bonaire
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Bicycles or scooters: Very popular for short distances.
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Car rental: Recommended if you visit Washington Slagbaai National Park.
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There is no regular public transportation, so you will depend on rentals or cabs.
Lodging recommendations
Curaçao
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Economic:
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Bed & Bike Curaçao – From $30 USD per night, youthful and centrally located.
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The Ritz Hostel – Ideal for backpackers, close to Punda.
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Luxury:
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Coral Estate Luxury Resort – Beachfront boutique resort.
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Avila Beach Hotel – Hotel with history and charm, very close to downtown.
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Aruba
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Economic:
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Hostel Room Aruba – Good location and affordable prices.
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Palmita Hotel Hostel – Near Palm Beach, basic but functional.
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Luxury:
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Ritz-Carlton Aruba – Pure Caribbean elegance.
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Hyatt Regency Aruba – Ideal for couples and families.
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Bonaire
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Economic:
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Tala Lodge Bonaire – Centrally located and comfortable.
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Coco Palm Garden – Bungalow style, good value for money.
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Luxury:
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Harbour Village Beach Club – Luxury resort with private beach.
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Bellafonte Luxury Oceanfront Hotel – High standard apartments.
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Things to do in Curaçao, Aruba and Bonaire: Must-see places
Curaçao
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Willemstad and the Queen Emma Bridge – A stroll through the colonial World Heritage City.
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Kenepa Grandi Beach – One of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean.
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Shete Boka Park – Ideal for nature lovers and wild landscapes.
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Kura Hulanda Museum – Afro-Caribbean history and culture.
➡️ Discover more things to do in Curaçao here
Aruba
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Eagle Beach – Award-winning beach for its beauty and tranquility.
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Arikok National Park – Caves, local fauna and hiking.
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Oranjestad – Vibrant capital city with Dutch colonial architecture.
Bonaire
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Diving and snorkeling – Bonaire is famous for its reefs accessible from the shore.
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Lake Goto – Ideal to see flamingos.
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1000 Steps Beach – It’s not a thousand, but the scenery is incredible.
Conclusion: Which one to choose?
If you are looking for economy and diversity, Curaçao is your best option. It has a vibrant mix of culture, spectacular beaches and reasonable prices. Bonaire is ideal if you love diving and tranquility. Aruba, on the other hand, is perfect for those who want luxury, comfort and postcard beaches… as long as your budget allows it.
