You’ll discover what makes this “one happy island” when you experience the best beaches in Aruba. With some of the top stretches of sand in the Caribbean, Aruba delivers a slice of paradise with every single beach. Whether you’re in search of a place to unwind or looking to enjoy water sports in a lively atmosphere, this island has something for every type of beachgoer.
Get ready to explore some of the top beaches in Aruba, where soft, powdery sand, sparkling azure waters, and refreshing seaside cocktails under the Caribbean sun await.
Palm Beach
Palm Beach
Swimming enthusiasts will truly enjoy a day at Palm Beach, one of the best white-sand beaches in the Caribbean, where pristine, calm seas beckon for a leisurely dip along the northern coast. Allow yourself to be soothed by the sun as you lounge on the two-mile strip.
Stroll along the pathway that lines the edge of the sand or out onto the picturesque pier. Zip around on a jet ski, or dive a little deeper and explore the intriguing underwater world. Venture to the far end of Palm Beach to watch as skilled kite surfers soar from wave to wave.
Relax in the shade provided by resident palm trees, or check out the action near the high-rise hotels, casinos, and shops. If you’re hungry, plenty of restaurants and beach bars offer an ideal setting for seaside drinks and dining. This stretch of sand is also known for its amazing sunsets that cap off the perfect day at the beach, ideal for those on a honeymoon in Aruba.
Eagle Beach
Eagle Beach
Eagle Beach, one of the best beaches in Aruba, is located on the northwestern edge of the island. As the widest stretch of sand in the country, there’s ample room to enjoy this beach in peace. Discover the unique Fofoti trees that reside here. These trees grow on the beach and look very similar to the indigenous and iconic Divi Divi trees that grow all over the island of Aruba.
Grab some snorkel gear and explore the incredible underwater world that Aruba is known for right from the beach. You’ll encounter rich marine life, including friendly sea turtles that frequent the waters in this area and are known to nest on Eagle Beach.
De Palm Island
De Palm Island
Take a quick ferry ride to frolic with flamingos in paradise at De Palm Island. Laze under the shade of a cabana and sip cocktails while watching the flamingos in their natural habitat. You’ll likely share the sand with some curious iguanas hoping to soak up some sun, too.
Aside from wildlife spotting, you can play beach volleyball, enjoy watersports, embark on a banana boat ride, zip down waterslides, and even take salsa dancing lessons. Underwater adventure abounds, too; try SNUBA, where you can explore a bit further than snorkeling allows.
The swimming and snorkeling is top-notch here, too, with an accessible coral reef just a short swim away. See colorful tropical fish like the parrotfish or even a graceful sea turtle. With so much to do and a gorgeous backdrop, De Palm Island is one of the top beaches in Aruba to spend the day.
Baby Beach
Baby Beach
Baby Beach is an idyllic cove situated on the southeastern edge of Aruba’s stunning coastline. The moon-shaped lagoon is the perfect spot for swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear seas. The cove’s calm water is ideal for beginner snorkelers, and it’s also one of the best scuba diving spots in Aruba.
An onsite snack stand and grill offers Aruban food like burgers and seafood to enjoy while soaking up the warm Caribbean sun. Make sure to leave some time to explore the nearby cultural city of San Nicolas. Stroll the colorful streets, admire the mural artwork, taste local cuisine, and shop for souvenirs.
Read: Best Places to Shop in Aruba
Druif Beach
Druif Beach
At Druif Beach, soft, powdery sand and beautifully blue seas beckon. This rustic stretch offers a quiet respite to experience nature, with rocks and coral creating a pretty contrast to the striking water and white sand.
Walk the mile-long length of shore in search of colorful sea glass, have a picnic lunch, or sunbathe in a chair rental and feel yourself rejuvenate. Cool off with a leisurely swim in the calm, turquoise water on a beach you might just have all to yourself.
Mangel Halto Beach
Mangel Halto Beach
One of the best things to do in Aruba is to embrace seclusion at Mangel Halto Beach. The calm, shallow waters here make it one of the best beaches in Aruba for swimmers, snorkelers, and kayaking enthusiasts. Paddle through scenic mangroves above impossibly clear water on a kayak or stand-up paddleboard. Snorkel through stunning coral reefs, where you’ll swim amongst vibrant tropical fish such as angelfish, lizardfish, snapper, trumpetfish, sea sponges, and anemones.
This is one of the best spots for snorkeling in the Caribbean, with several options for entering the water and routes to swim along the reef for varying skill levels. For divers that choose to explore deeper waters, you can see moray eels and barracuda.
Beach huts provide shade, or you can opt to lounge in the sun on the sand. If you’re looking for solitude and excellent snorkeling, Mangel Halto Beach is a fantastic choice.
Boca Catalina
Boca Catalina
Head to the serene Boca Catalina Beach, one of Aruba’s best beaches for locals and visitors alike. Located on the northwestern tip of the island, this beach is perfect for those interested in discovering marine life while snorkeling in the pristine seas directly from the beach.
You could encounter curious sea turtles, sea sponges, and angelfish while swimming offshore here. The nearby shipwreck, the Antilla, can be seen from the beach, adding to the alluring scene.
Blackstone Beach
Blackstone Beach
Uncover the natural wonder and hidden stretch of sand favored by photography enthusiasts on the eastern side of Aruba. On Blackstone Beach, you’ll be treated to a beautiful scene composed of blue seas, dark sand, volcanic black stones, and many rugged rock formations. Wander the beach, taking in the scenery; you might even have it to yourself.
Explore past the beach with a visit to the nearby Arikok National Park, which spans almost 20 percent of the island. A trip to this park will give you the opportunity to learn about plants and animals indigenous to Aruba.
Embark on a guided nature walk and view stunning landscapes and mystical caves like the well-known Quadiriki Cave. You’ll see authentic rock drawings, natural formations caused by lava, and rocks such as quartz diorite and limestone. You’ll also have access to gorgeous isolated coves like Boca Prins and Dos Playa.
Boca Prins Beach
Boca Prins Beach
For a purely natural beach experience in Aruba, look no further than the secluded and striking Boca Prins Beach, named after an old plantation in the area. Located on the northeast coast within Arikok National Park, this cove offers spectacular scenery. Climb down the wooden stairs to explore this unspoiled cove.
Although swimming is prohibited due to its rough seas, the gorgeous landscape is perfect for exploring on foot and taking incredible photographs. Sand dunes, azure water, driftwood, and a rocky shore create a cinematic backdrop. Watch as resident crabs scurry across the sand, and fully relax in this secluded paradise.
Rodger’s Beach
Rodgers Beach
Situated just west of Baby Beach and in close proximity to the city of San Nicolas, Rodgers Beach is a local favorite and one of the best beaches in Aruba. The uncrowded shores, spectacular sand, and vibrant blue water will lure you in for a relaxing day.
Unwind as you gaze at the fishing boats bobbing in the water on the sparkling Caribbean Sea. Calm seas in a protected cove make for excellent swimming and snorkeling conditions, and picnic huts provide shade for a tranquil meal on the shore.
If you’re looking to get away from it all in a gorgeous setting, Rodgers Beach is a great choice. You’ll also be able to spot the Aruba Lago Refinery, the island’s first oil refinery started by a British captain whom the beach is named after.
Arashi Beach
Arashi Beach
Hailed as one of the best beaches in the Caribbean for snorkeling, Arashi Beach is a great place to rent some gear for underwater exploration during your vacation to Aruba. On the west side of the beach, calm seas with a soft, sandy bottom are host to abundant marine life, while fun, gentle waves provide excitement for those looking to try bodyboarding on the opposite end.
Nearby, you can stop at the famed California Lighthouse, named after a steamship that sank in the early 1980s. This old stone lighthouse is perched on the Hudishibana Hill and is the subject of many photographs. A climb to the top of this iconic island landmark rewards with expansive, 360-degree views that are sure to leave you awestruck.
Daimari Beach
Daimari Beach
On the northeastern edge of Aruba, you’ll find the rugged Daimari Beach in Arikok National Park. This stunning cove is host to horseback riding tours that start from an old coconut plantation dating back to the 16th century. If you choose to ride, you’ll trot through some of Aruba’s striking untouched landscapes while learning about the historical plantation grounds.
Swimming is not recommended here, but you can admire the gorgeous scenery, where turquoise waves crash dramatically into the limestone rock that creates the cove. For a thrill, ATV tours and hiking are also popular in this area in order to reach the famed Natural Pool and Boca Keto Beach, an equally alluring and secluded beach destination on the east coast of Aruba.
Andicuri Beach
Andicuri Beach
Powerful, roaring waves and a sea-carved craggy coastline make windward Andicuri Beach the antithesis of the west’s resort-backed sands. Beloved by body bodyboarders and serious surfers, the strong currents are only suited to experienced swimmers.
Yet paddling in the breaking waves, lounging on the sun-baked sands, and seeking shade under the overhanging sedimentary cliffs here is a delight, especially as the surrounding low-slung hills block any sight of modern life.
ATV in Arikok National Park
This is another of Arikok National Park’s Aruba beaches and you’ll need to hike in or follow the bumpy, dirt track road on an ATV or four-wheel drive to arrive. The more complicated access helps to keep Andicuri’s sands fairly footprint-free.
If you’re somewhat of a restless beachgoer, Andicuri Beach is an excellent starting point for short hikes along the windswept, rugged landscape to scenic bays and rock formations.
To the north, beyond the collapsed Natural Bridge, a string of pocket-sized coves adds crevices to the coastline. Head south and still standing, similar coastal arches crossing aggressive waves can be relished around Blackstone Beach. Pack a picnic and enjoy nature’s performance.
Malmok Beach
Malmok Beach
Lapped by some of Aruba’s clearest, bath-like waters, Malmok Beach is a swimming and snorkeling haven. A slither of sand punctuated by limestone outcrops, this isn’t one of the best beaches in Aruba for lazy shoreline days—though there are a few palapas to relax under—but rather for jumping in.
Due to the rock-scattered coastline, water shoes are advised before pulling on your mask, ready to explore the awaiting underwater world. Not that diving in is essential—the water is practically a window from above, too.
Shallow and suitable for first-time snorkeling exploration, the pristine waters aren’t as rich in marine life as other locations, but the visibility more than compensates.
SS Antilla
Malmok is a popular stopping point for sailboats here to explore the submerged seascape, so be mindful of swimming out too far. Most boat trips anchor closer to the SS Antilla, one of Aruba’s best scuba diving sites and the Caribbean’s largest wreck dive. Although it seems close, reaching it requires a confident swimming ability.
Slightly further south, the rusty Baboo Shipwreck, its weathering remains peeking above the water, is nearer the shoreline, making it slightly easier to reach under your own steam.
Read: Aruba Travel Tips
Dos Playa
Dos Playa
Accessed via the arid landscapes of Arikok National Park, Dos Playa promises two side-by-side tranquil Aruba beaches on the rugged east coast, separated by a slender and barren headland.
These beaches are only reachable on foot or with a four-wheel drive but you’ll enjoy an unadulterated slice of paradise here. Surfers who carry their boards are particularly spoilt, with waves providing reliable swell. Due to the strong currents and lack of lifeguards, neither of Dos Playa’s beaches is suited for swimming.
Still, that’s very much the appeal: a blissfully secluded location for serene, wave-soundtracked sunbathing. Be sure to pack a picnic and plenty of water, as the remote nature of the pair means all supplies should be carried in and out.
Westpunt Beach
Westpunt Beach
Untainted and windswept, wild Westpunt Beach is a place for reflective wanderings and scanning the choppy waters rather than swimming. Defined by driftwood and dramatic boulders, a salty breeze and specks of pink sand, this beach is where you’re more likely to spot scuttling crabs and lizards than other sun-seekers.
The beach is accessible via a dirt track road and the best way to arrive is on foot using the 3.2-mile Westpunt Trail, which starts near the California Lighthouse. Strolling past the sweeping Sasariwichi Dunes and cacti-strewn landscape, it feels like crossing a diminutive desert before the sea appears as an oasis.
Spend some time taking in the tranquil landscape, searching for the little pockets of pink coral sand, and appreciating Aruba’s wild side before following the coastal track back, the California Lighthouse looming in the distance.
Druif Beach Nord
Not to be confused with the west coast’s Druif Beach, this rock-speckled, scrub-backed stretch of sand on the island’s northeast tip offers a much wilder beach experience.
A popular stopping-off point for ATV tours, this wave-pounded shoreline is just south of Westpunt Beach, and a long amble between the two is seriously soul-soothing. There’s no waterfront development here and you can enjoy a real sense of solitude.
Savaneta Beach
This trio of small, quiet, and often-overlooked pockets of sand are just north of Savaneta, the island’s first capital. Popular with locals and fishermen, these undeveloped beaches in Aruba feel like another world from those further along the coast.
Hemmed by mangroves that provide shade between swims in the shallow waters, any of the three handkerchief-sized beaches, also known as Santo Largo, are ideal for whiling away a few blissful hours.
After lapping up the tranquil setting and turquoise waters, set off toward Savaneta in search of a freshly caught seafood lunch. A few first-class restaurants, including the ever-prized Flying Fishbone, overhang the rippling waters along the coastline.
From their terraces, you can spot Sea Glass Island. This slender spot is awash with hundreds of pieces of well-polished sea glass, which unlike shells and coral, you’re allowed to remove, and can be accessed via a private boat transfer or with a kayak rental.
Conchi Natural Pool
Conchi Natural Pool
While technically not one of Aruba’s beaches, there’s arguably no better place to swim on the island than this celebrated and cinematic natural pool in Arikok National Park.
Known as Conchi, which translates to bowl, the swimming area is enveloped by jagged volcanic rocks and is about as scenic as wild swimming gets. Descend the stairs and splash around, enjoying the occasional crashing wave sending a flurry of foam and spray over the rocky walls.
Boca Keto
Boca Keto
After cooling off in Conchi’s refreshing waters, it would be remiss not to explore the nearby picturesque coastline.
A scenic, short stroll through the arid, low-scrub, and goat-frequented landscape will bring you to Boca Keto, a gorgeous scalloped bay where waves break on the large rocky outcrop in front of the beach, sending white swell towards the shore.
Backing the beach are a small yet equally white set of dunes, the wind permanently reshaping their form. It’s a sensational setting to take a moment to pause before returning to Conchi for a final dip or seeking refreshments from the stall often set at the top of the pool’s stairs.
Hadicurari Beach
Not all beaches in Aruba are about snuggling into the silky soft sands. Others, such as Hadicurari, were practically crafted for surf-ripe adventures.
Found at the far end of Palm Beach, after the hotels taper off, this small sweep of powdery, underdeveloped sand is Aruba’s premier wind and kitesurfing destination. For decades, this beach has hosted the Aruba Hi-Winds competition, bringing together world champions to glide atop the sparkling cyan waters.
Hadicurari Beach
As long as the reliable trade winds are in play, it’s an excellent spot to settle on a towel and watch the symphony of colorful kites dance in the sky. If you’re inspired to try your hand at either sport, a handful of beachfront shack operators offer lessons or rentals for more experienced water athletes.
Surfside Beach
Surfside Beach
As the closest beach to Oranjestad, other than the tiny sandy speck fronting West Deck, a fun sea-facing bar, Surfside Beach is often overlooked in favor of the endless sands heading north.
However, its location is arguably its appeal. Only a one-mile walk from Fort Zoutman, Surfside is an ideal spot for a post-sightseeing dip.
The beach is reached by following the Linear Park Trail, a coast-hugging and mainly shaded pathway, and no car is needed. Be sure to stop by the colorful Aruba sign at its entrance on Plaza Turismo for a photo.
As the beach curves along the far end of the airport’s runway, there’s always a rush of adrenaline spotting the planes coming into land while swimming. Post-dip, enjoy lunch or cocktails directly on the sands, either at Surf Side Bar or the aptly named Barefoot seafront restaurant.
Boca Grandi
Boca Grandi
Boca Grandi’s half-moon bay is pretty as a postcard, and because it is one of the easterly Aruba beaches outside of Arikok National Park, no park day pass is required to visit.
Before arrival, visit the giant Red Anchor, a photogenic pit-stop lifted from a shipwreck, and stock up on freshly hacked coconuts or juices from the makeshift stall across the way.
Once at the beach, settle in to enjoy the colorful symphony of kite surfers usually decorating the sky, making the best of Aruba’s infamous trade winds. This does mean the stronger currents aren’t ideal for swimming, though cooling off with a paddle at the water’s edge is possible.
Grapefield Beach
Grapefield Beach
Almost an extension of Boca Grandi, Grapefield Beach is a slim stretch of sand snaking further up the coast. Although the waves make it unsuitable for swimming, the reef keeps the shallows somewhat protected. It’s an idyllic location for long, gentle walks in the water.
What are the best beaches in Aruba for families?
Beach in Aruba
The best beaches in Aruba for families are on the calmer west coast, where shallower waters and ripples rather than waves define the shoreline.
Eagle Beach and Palm Beach are two of the most family-suited swathes of sand, thanks to the abundance of facilities, including bathrooms and restaurants nearby. Further south, crescent-shaped Baby Beach is also well suited for paddling with kids.
Lifeguards aren’t standard on Aruba’s beaches. If you’d prefer to swim with your children in a more supervised environment, spend the day on De Palm Island, where the family-friendly mini water park is guarded, providing an alternative to the mainland’s sands.
Which beaches in Aruba are best for snorkeling?
Snorkeling
Aruba has abundant snorkeling and scuba diving sites; many reefs and underwater attractions can be appreciated straight from the shoreline. Baby Beach is an excellent location for beginner snorkeling thanks to the shallow waters in its protected bay.
Boca Catalina is a highly-rated beach to spot sea turtles, especially in the morning, as you often don’t need to stray far from the shoreline for a sighting. Malmok Beach is also an outstanding destination for snorkeling around shipwrecks, though a boat tour will provide easier access if you’re a less confident swimmer.
If you’d prefer a more colorful experience, set off from mangrove-shrouded Mangel Halto to spot shoals of fish within its reef. Advanced snorkelers will appreciate the outer reef with its more vivid corals. The drift snorkel here is only suitable for strong swimmers.
Are there any secluded or less crowded beaches in Aruba?
Boca Prins
Many of the island’s sands are blissfully undeveloped. The most secluded are the craggy coves and pocket-sized east coast bays, especially those within Arikok National Park, such as Boca Prins and Daimari Beach.
However, the east coast’s strong currents are better suited to surfing or sunbathing than swimming. For a less crowded swimming spot, set your sights on Savaneta Beach, which, although minor, is mostly overlooked, or Rodger’s Beach, a more local favorite near San Nicolas.
Which beach in Aruba has the best sunset views?
Eagle Beach
Aruba’s sunsets are often sublime, and there’s no better place to see the crimson sun sink into the boundless Caribbean Sea than from the shoreline.
Most of the north-westerly beaches in Aruba promise a first-class sundown experience. Eagle Beach is particularly popular due to the number of beach bars offering the chance to raise a glass as the sun sets.
Arashi Beach is one of the best places to visit in Aruba for sunsets. The Beach Shack is always popular at golden hour, serving local Balashi beers on ice and fruity rum cocktails, while the beachfront palm trees add another tropical dimension to sunset photo sessions.
What are the best beaches in Aruba for relaxation?
Westpunt Beach
Every speck of sand in Aruba will send you into a relaxed lull. Still, while developed beaches like Eagle might have massages on the beach, they are often a little louder.
For a more serene experience, set your sights on the Sasariwichi Dunes, also known as the California Dunes, in the island’s north. An unhurried stroll through the dune-ribboned landscape of sometimes soaring sands towards Westpunt Beach is relaxation exemplified.
Mangrove-shrouded Mangel Halto is another one of Aruba’s most relaxed beaches where you can chill out in a shaded spot or enjoy a peaceful SUP escape.
Which beach in Aruba is best for a romantic getaway?
Arikok National Park
Aruba has idyllic beaches for every type of couple. If you’re a cabanas, cocktails, and private island kind of romantic, dreamy De Palm Island, with its flamingos and sea turtles is the perfect outing.
Druif Beach, with its rustic dried palm umbrellas and cocktail-serving Bunker Bar, is another one of the best things to do in Aruba for couples—especially since you can snap the I Heart Aruba sign when arriving.
Prefer to steal away to somewhere more secluded? Venture through the Arikok National Park to the blissful double sand bays of Dos Playa.
Aruba
A cruise to Aruba is an excellent way to experience the golden sand and sunny seas that this Southern Caribbean island has to offer. From unspoiled and secluded national park coves to world-class snorkeling and mingling with flamingos, Aruba will have you feeling rejuvenated in no time.
Browse cruise itineraries on our website and book your next tropical vacation today.
