Local Time in Aruba

Aruba operates on Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4). This means the island is four hours behind Greenwich Mean Time, the global reference point for time. You may also see UTC used instead of GMT - both systems are equivalent for travelers. Aruba shares its time zone with destinations such as the U.S. Virgin Islands, Barbados, and parts of northern South America.

Current Time in Aruba

Aruba does not observe Daylight Saving Time. The island remains on the same time throughout the entire year, which makes planning flights, activities, and appointments straightforward and predictable.

How Many Hours of Daylight Does Aruba Have?

Because Aruba is located close to the equator, daylight hours remain fairly consistent year-round. The island enjoys approximately 8 to 9 hours of sunshine per day, with only minor seasonal variations. There is no practical need to adjust clocks during the year.

Sunrise and Sunset in Aruba

Sunrise and sunset times stay relatively stable throughout the seasons. Below is an approximate overview:

Winter

• Sunrise: 7:00 AM
  
• Sunset: 6:30 PM
  
  

Spring

• Sunrise: 6:30 AM
  
• Sunset: 6:45 PM
  
  

Summer

• Sunrise: 6:15 AM
  
• Sunset: 7:00 PM
  
  

Fall

• Sunrise: 6:30 AM
  
• Sunset: 6:20 PM
  
  

Tip
Sunset activities run all year, but during winter they usually start 30 minutes to 1 hour earlier than in summer.

Interested in experiencing Aruba’s sunset from the water?

There are several sunset sail and cruise options along Aruba’s west coast, ranging from relaxed catamaran trips to more private experiences. These are popular for couples and small groups looking to enjoy the island’s evening light in a calm setting.

Check out our Sunset Boat Tours page.

Aruba’s Time Difference with the United States

Because Aruba does not observe Daylight Saving Time, the time difference with the United States changes depending on the season.

• Eastern Time (ET)
  During U.S. Daylight Saving Time (March–November): Aruba is the same time as ET
  During U.S. Standard Time (November–March): Aruba is 1 hour ahead
  
  
• Central Time (CT)
  During DST: Aruba is 1 hour ahead
  During Standard Time: Aruba is 2 hours ahead
  
  
• Mountain Time (MT)
  During DST: Aruba is 2 hours ahead
  During Standard Time: Aruba is 3 hours ahead
  
  
• Pacific Time (PT)
  During DST: Aruba is 3 hours ahead
  During Standard Time: Aruba is 4 hours ahead
  
  
• Examples
  If it is 3:00 PM ET during U.S. summer time, it is also 3:00 PM in Aruba.
  If it is 3:00 PM ET during winter, it is 4:00 PM in Aruba.
  
  

Best Times to Call Between Aruba and the U.S.

• Eastern Time: 9:00 AM–9:00 PM ET works well.
• Central Time: Avoid early mornings in CT.
• Mountain & Pacific Time: Calling later in the day works best to avoid very early hours on the U.S. west coast.
  
  

Aruba’s Time Difference with the Netherlands

The time difference between Aruba and the Netherlands depends on the Dutch season:

• During Dutch summer time: Aruba is 6 hours earlier
• During Dutch winter time: Aruba is 5 hours earlier
  
  

Examples

• If it is 3:00 PM in Amsterdam during summer, it is 9:00 AM in Aruba.
  
• If it is 3:00 PM in Amsterdam during winter, it is 10:00 AM in Aruba.
  
  

Memory tip:
In summer, the difference is Six hours — both start with an S.

When to Call Between Aruba and the Netherlands

Calling from the Netherlands to Aruba

• Avoid calling during the Dutch morning, as it is still early in Aruba.
  
• From 3:00 PM Dutch time onward is ideal.
  
• Keep in mind that many people in Aruba work into the Dutch evening.
  
  

Calling from Aruba to the Netherlands

• The best time to call is during Aruba’s daytime.
  
• Calling in the Aruba evening may mean it is already late at night in the Netherlands.
  
• For business calls, calling before lunchtime in Aruba is often most effective.
  
  

Making Appointments in Aruba

Aruba generally follows a relaxed Caribbean pace, though it is slightly more structured than some neighboring islands. Appointments may start later than scheduled, and small delays are common, especially for household services.

Between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM, many businesses operate with reduced staff as people take lunch breaks or handle family commitments. During these hours, roads tend to be busier and waiting times longer.

Official appointments may require advance planning, and while systems are in place, exact start times are not always guaranteed.

Being Fashionably Late in Aruba

For social events, arriving a little later than the stated time is normal. For example, if an event starts at 5:30 PM, guests may arrive around 5:45 PM without issue. Business meetings, however, generally expect punctuality, and arriving late can leave a negative impression.

The Rhythm of Aruba

Life in Aruba follows a relaxed island rhythm influenced by climate, culture, and outdoor living. Time is rarely rushed, and daily life balances efficiency with enjoyment of the surroundings.

With steady daylight hours, a consistent time zone, and a calm pace of life, Aruba makes it easy to settle into island time and enjoy your stay without constantly watching the clock.