The official currency in Aruba is the Aruban Florin, abbreviated as AWG (also commonly written as Afl.). The florin is pegged to the US Dollar at a fixed exchange rate: 1 USD equals 1.80 AWG, or conversely, 1 AWG equals about $0.56 USD. This consistent rate is honored throughout the island, so whether you're shopping, dining, or booking activities, you'll always know where you stand with exchange rates.
Here's the great news: US Dollars are widely accepted everywhere in Aruba! Hotels, restaurants, shops, tour operators, and most businesses happily take USD alongside florins. When you pay with US Dollars and get change back, you might receive a mix of both currencies—this is completely normal and both are equally useful. The florin comes in coins (5, 10, 25, 50 cents, plus 1 and 5 florin coins) and banknotes (10, 25, 50, 100, and 200 florins). Keep an eye out for the distinctive square-shaped 50-cent "yotin" coin—it's uniquely Aruban and makes a fun souvenir!
Banks on the island exchange other foreign currencies like Euros, but given how readily USD is accepted, most American visitors never bother exchanging money. Just bring US Dollars in various denominations, especially smaller bills ($1, $5, $20) for tips and casual purchases.