Explore Aruba’s farmers markets: A taste of local life
Aruba may be a desert island, but its farmers markets add a burst of life, freshness, and community spirit each week. Whether you’re traveling to taste fresh produce, support local artisans, or simply enjoy a Sunday Outing, these markets offer something special.
They’re perfect for curious tourits, island locals and especially Arubans visiting from abroad who wan to reconnect with their roots. You’ll discover everything from aloe skincare and dragon fruit to handmade crafts and hot sauces, experiences that mirror the themes of heritage and sustainability I write about in my book Roots and Renewal (link available here).
What grows on Aruba?
You might be surprised to learn that Aruba does produces its own goods. Think aloe vera skincare, hot sauces made with home-grown habanero and madame Jeanette peppers, hydroponic lettuce, artisan honey, and seasonal fruits like mango, dragon fruit, or even kenepa and cactus fruit in some areas.
Although farming is small scale, demand for local produce is growing. From aloe fields and small cunucu plots to modern hydroponic systems, agriculture on the island is steadily expanding.
Farmers market to visit
STR Agriculture market: Alto Vista, every saturday (8 AM–12 PM)
A must for farm fresh produce. Expect vegetables, local honey, herbs, homemade hot sauces, fresh coconut water, and ground coffee. Pastechi, arepa’s and various treats made from papaya (#mangel di papaya) are amoung the other delectable goodies available from vendor. It’s a great blend of fresh flavor and Aruban hospitality.
👉 Note: Not everything you find on the market is local or organic, ask the seller directly if you want to be certain.
HappyPonics market: Every other Saturday (check Facebook page)
Located in Paradera, this hydroponic farm showcases sustainably-grown lettuce, eggs, mushrooms, honey, homemade bread, soaps, and even ice cream occasionally. It’s small, local, and always fresh.
Santa Rosa farmers market: First Sunday of the month, Piedra Plat area
This monthly market, is held in the department of agriculture DLVV Santa Rosa. It is a popular event for both locals and visitors. You can browse and buy fresh, local produce, fruit trees, and ornamental plants that thrive in Aruba’s climate. Kids will enjoy a visit to the small childrens farm (kinderboerderij Cunucu di Chabelita), where they can meet friendly farm animals. It’s also a great spot to taste local specialties like goat stew or fresh fruit juices, and learn more about eco-friendly farming practices on the island.
Ostrich farm market: First Sunday of the month (10 AM–2 PM, Matividiri 57)
A large farmers market held under a shaded pavilion. Expect artisan breads, homemade jams, vegetarian snacks, local honey, handcrafted jewelry, soap, live art, and even ostrich tours. Delicious local lunches, smoothies, and shaved ice add festivity to the day.
A list of vendors
- Su Aruba: local sauces & condiments
- Homemade Noni Juice: fresh, traditional health drink.
- Smokey Bill’s: meats, BBQ marinades
- Fresh produce & fruit trees adapted to Aruba’s climate.
Handmade miniature cunucu houses
For more information check out our page Best Farms in Aruba
Farmers market summary table
| Market | Date & Time | Highlights | Facebook page |
|---|---|---|---|
|
STR Agriculture |
Saturdays, 8 AM–12 PM |
Fresh veggies, honey, coffee, pancakes & bread |
Facebook link |
|
HappyPonics |
Every other Saturday, AM |
Hydroponic products: lettuce, eggs, bread, honey |
Facebook link |
|
Santa Rosa |
First Sunday, AM |
Local produce, fruit trees, ornamental plants, souvenirs, local dishes, self guided farm tour |
Facebook link |
|
Ostrich Farm |
First Sunday, 10 AM–2 PM |
Artisan crafts, food, ostrich tours, local art |
Facebook Link |
Frequently asked questions
Absolutely! It’s slowly catching on but from Alto Vista to Piedra plat and the Ostrich Farm, Aruba offers vibrant farmers markets celebrating local food, artisans, and community.
Yes! While not as large as in other countries, locals often set up roadside stands selling smoothie and snacks like pastechi and arepa. Keep your eyes open near Savaneta or beachside spots, those can surprise you!
Locals rave about the food, hot pepper sauces, fresh juices, arts and handcrafted soaps.
Why These Markets Matter
These markets are more than just places to shop, they maintain Aruba’s farming past, highlight local makers, encourage sustainable practices, and provide meaningful ways for both tourists and residents alike to connect with the island’s heartbeat.
Visiting Tips
- Arrive early on Saturdays or Sundays for best selection.
- Bring cash (USD or florin). Some vendors accept cards.
- Pair a market visit with brunch or a beach trip, or plan a family-friendly outing that includes farm tours. Check out get your guide widget selection below.
- Follow the official Facebook pages for event updates (see table above)
Tours and activities
Bringing it all together
Although farming in Aruba is small scale, demand for local produce is on the increasing. From aloe fields and small cunucu plots to modern hydroponic systems, agriculture is steadily growing. Farmers markets are the perfect places to experience this growth first hand, whether you’re a local, a tourist, or an Aruban living abroad visiting the island. When I was on the island I visited the farmers market and bought local honey, fruits, hot sauces. So for me it’s a chance to reconnect with our roots, support local producers, and bring home a taste of the island.
This connection to heritage and sustainable living is also a key theme in my book Roots and Renewal (here is a link to the book).
If you like this article you may also want to read:
- What is agritourism?
- Dragon fruit farm, cunucu di Jimmy
- Best Farms in Aruba
- Best farms in Bonaire
- Best farms in Curaçao
- Keukenhof Tulip gardens
- Hofi mango Curacao