Arubian Beaches

Aruba

Aruba is a beach lovers paradise, well known for pristine sand, secluded coves and shallow crystal clear Caribbean blue waters teaming with wildlife. Each beach on Aruba seems to possess a unique personality. Exploring the beaches of Aruba is a must when you visit.

Palm Beach

Probably the most popular beach, this Large 2-mile-long powdery white narrow strip of coast on the west side of the island is lined with resorts casinos and hotels. It can be quite busy during the day as the guests bask in the sun on lounge chairs and frolic in the sea. If you are not a patron of these establishments however, you can expect to pay about $15 for a chair and about $40 for an umbrella for the day. Spreading your blanket or towel directly on the beach is not a good option however as the wind tends to whip sand around at ground level resulting in an unpleasant sandblasting effect on your body. This beach is lively and full of activity. It is a great beach for long walks, swimming in the crystal-clear water, and watching the sunset. There are many restaurants, shops and loads of nightlife. Many young people and families enjoy this strip so you can expect the noise level to reflect that.

Eagle Beach

Not far from Palm Beach and also on the west side of the island, you can find Eagle Beach. Often listed as one of the top beaches in the Caribbean, this very wide coastline is covered with white pristine powdery sand and has a much more relaxed vibe than Palm Beach. With fewer resorts and shops, it’s easy to find a quiet spot to set up your chair, read a book, swim, or just chill. Unprotected from the wind, you will need a chair for elevation as you lay on the beach soaking up the warm rays of the Caribbean sun. Chair rentals are usually $15/day and about $40 for an umbrella.

Arashi Beach

Near the northwest tip of Aruba near the California Lighthouse, overlooking the clear waters of Arashi Bay, you can find Arashi Beach. This 700-meter-long beach is somewhat less windy than others on the island and is frequented by both tourists and locals alike. Quieter and smaller than the resort beaches, Arashi is known for great snorkeling. The reef off the shore is home to a fantastic display or Caribbean underwater life including an array of colorful fish and sea turtles. There is not a place to rent snorkel equipment directly on this beach, so bring your own or rent daily or weekly from several rental outlets with daily rates starting at about $15/person. Our favorite was Adventure Sports Aruba.

Baby Beach

This shallow sheltered lagoon is located on the southeast end of the island and is a favorite to many locals. The name comes from the calm shallow waters that are said to be safe enough for a baby. Snorkeling is not advised outside the bay as the east trade-winds can cause dangerous currents. Sea turtles and some fish can often be seen inside the swimming area. Baby is much quieter and less breezy than most of the other beaches, however, the sand is not quite as powdery as eagle or palm beach. Chairs and umbrellas are available to rent however, be sure to pack a lunch if you plan to visit Baby Beach as we don’t recommend the restaurant. There are facilities available at a $2 charge per use.

Walking south along the path along the coast and away from the safe swimming area will lead you past a massive pet cemetery with thousands of grave sites complete with handmade tombstones and crosses.

Passing the cemetery and cautiously walking up the lava rocks, you will find yourself at a beautiful vista where the rough waves crash into the rugged coastline creating sprays of water to shoot 30 feet or more on a windy day.

Mangel Halto

Looking for a beautiful peaceful place to enjoy the sun, smooth waters, and sand? Mangel Halto is surrounded and sheltered by an intricate network of mangrove trees and is known for snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding. On the southwest side of the island, this secluded spot has several beach huts and mangroves to find shade, but no chair or umbrellas available to rent. Arrive early enough to secure a spot, then relax on the beach or wander through the mangrove paths to access the water. Advanced snorkelers enjoy the area however currents can be strong further away from the shore so be cautious if you are not familiar with the area.

Rodgers Beach

Located just west of Baby Beach and near the town of San Nicolas, Rogers beach is small and quiet with calm shallow waters and traditional fishing boats anchored to one side. The only drawback of Rodgers beach is its view. Just to the east of Rogers is an unsightly abandoned oil refinery.