The 13 Best Beaches in Aruba for Snorkeling & Sunbathing

Here are the best beaches in Aruba for snorkeling and sunbathing. Sparkling blue and unbelievably clear, you almost can’t go wrong! But all Aruba beaches have their own personality, pros, and cons. Whether you’re looking for the best beaches in Aruba for snorkeling or the best beaches to visit with kids, here are the 13 best beaches in Aruba to visit!

Aruba is home to some of the most picturesque beaches in the world. The bright turquoise waters and white, sugar-fine sand make Aruba stand out among other tropical islands.

When I first decided to travel to Aruba, believe it or not, it wasn’t for the beaches. It was for the deserts in Arikok National Park.

But by the time I left, I had a fresh perspective about Aruba’s best beaches. I spent my time in Aruba exploring all the beaches (and all the cacti) that the island had to offer.

From sweeping white sand coves to vibrant reefs full of colorful sea life, this little island offers something special for all types of travelers.

Some are great for snorkeling, some are quiet and nearly private, and some are filled with incredible wildlife. No matter which you choose, I can promise incredibly blue and turquoise ocean.

If you want to visit the perfect beach in Aruba, but aren’t sure where to go, I’m here to help. This article identifies the best beaches in Aruba for snorkeling, the best ones for sunbathing, and the best beaches for unique experiences in Aruba, like colorful wildlife and shipwrecks.

Let’s dive into the best beaches in Aruba that you should consider visiting, as well as what to pack and how to get around.

---

---

You May Also Like: A Complete Aruba Travel Guide

The Best Beaches in Aruba

This list will identify several categories of beaches. First, the best beaches in Aruba in general will be listed. Then, I will have sections identifying the best the best beaches in Aruba for snorkeling and the best beaches in Aruba for families.

Full disclosure, I was solo traveling in Aruba, but there were some obvious reasons why some beaches would be better than others for children.

It is worth noting, I did rent a car in Aruba, which I highly recommend for anyone who wants unfettered access to the entire island.

If at all possible, I highly recommend going this route so that you are not stuck by default to the beaches closest to the tourist zone. There is oh-so-much to see beyond that!

GET THE BEST RENTAL CAR PRICES HERE!

If renting a car is not an option for you, check out my full Aruba transportation guide for more ways to get around!

I’ll also let you know everything you need to pack for each of Aruba’s best beaches, too. But, you can also bookmark my Aruba packing list for a full Aruba vacation checklist.

But for now, let’s dive in!

1. Baby Beach

Location: san nicolas

Baby Beach is located at the southernmost point of Aruba. This beach is a popular spot for locals and I found it to be a great place to get away from crowds.

Because it is a bit of a trek to get here from the main tourist hub in Oranjestad or Noord, less people are likely to do so. But in my opinion, it’s definitely worth it! Baby Beach was one of my favorite beaches in Aruba, hands down.

Long stretches of smooth flat sand sink into a round, impossibly blue cove. The water is calm enough for swimmers of all abilities, and I found it to be pristine and clean. This is the best choice if you want calm waters, gorgeous sand with room to lay out, and easy swimming.

2. Flamingo Beach

Location: RENAISSANCE Island

No “Best Beaches in Aruba” list would be complete without a mention of the famous Flamingo Beach on Renaissance Island. Since I have written a VERY in depth guide on Visiting Flamingo Beach, here I will just list the basics.

Flamingo Beach is one of Aruba’s few private beaches, and is located on a small island 15 minutes off of the Aruban Coast.

The draw is of course the unique experience of having a beach day with pink flamingos – not an experience you can get just anywhere!

You can swim in the blue water near them, observe their strange feeding habits, or just lay on a beach chair and appreciate them from afar.

However, you do need to plan ahead, as you need a specific hotel reservation or tickets to visit. Read more here about Flamingo Beach Aruba to learn about how to visit.

Suffice it to say, this is one of the most unique things to do in Aruba and I would 100% do it again when I return!

Parking: parking is found near the boat docks, but you need to ride the boat to visit.
What to pack: there are tons of beach chairs available, but plan to bring a wide brim hat, the perfect beach towel, and lots of US quarters to purchase flamingo food!

3. Iguana Beach

LOCATION: RENAISSANCE ISLAND

Just opposite from Flamingo Beach is another beach worth mentioning; Iguana Beach. You will need to use the same boat service as when visiting Flamingo Beach. They are located literally side by side.

This is the place to go if you want to take part in beach activities. Kayaks, SUP’s and rafts are all available for rent here, and the sand beach has a lot more space for chairs (not to mention shade) than on the flamingo side.

Iguana Beach is also where the restaurants sit, lining the long stretch of sand. Pizzas, tropical drinks, and much more can be purchased.

Note that Flamingo Beach only allows children for a few hours a day. Iguana Beach is the place to be if you’re traveling with children.

Parking: parking is found near the boat docks, but you need to ride the boat to visit.
What to pack: Pack the perfect beach towel, an ocean floatie, and your snorkel gear.

4. Bachelor Beach

LOCATION: san nicolas

Bachelor’s Beach is found on the southeast end of the island, and I found this beach to be really unique. It had a much more “rugged” feel, considering I had just come from pristine Baby Beach beforehand.

However, the rugged feel was exactly what I liked about it! Desert shrubs and cacti led up to the sandy shore, which stretches into the bright turquoise water.

Constant winds make this beach a great place for windsurfing, and the waves are more calm than several of the surrounding beaches. You’ll know your close when you see a bright red anchor landmark on the roadway. Turn left and Bachelor Beach is just ahead.

Parking: parking is available in a nearby lot.
What to pack: Pack a beach coverup in case the wind brings a chill, the perfect beach towel, and a foldable beach chair, since this beach is wild and rugged.

5. Surfside Beach

LOCATION: Oranjestad

Surfside Beach is only a few minutes away from downtown Oranjestad, and is a great beach if you like the idea of amenities being close by. A beach bar and restaurant are just a two minute walk from the water itself, and the water is calm and shallow.

Far out from the shore, there are always boats and yachts floating out in the sea, and this fairly lively stretch of the coast is great for people watching.

Bonus, this beach also is tucked behind the famous Aruba sign that nobody can resist taking a photograph of. Make a day of sightseeing, grabbing a bite, and lounging on the beach right here in one spot.

Parking: parking is available in the lot near the Aruba sign.
What to pack: Pack a beach coverup, a good book, and the perfect beach towel.

6. Malmok Beach

LOCATION: Noord

Malmok Beach is located on the northwestern shore of Aruba, near Tres Trapi. This narrow strip of rocky beach offers shallow and crystal clear water perfect for snorkeling.

Much of the coastline here is sharp and rocky, meaning that it is just teeming with ocean life. Note, that also means you will want a great pair of water shoes on hand.

There is a small sand area to access the water, but not the best beach if you are looking to lay out. but it is the perfect spot to swim up cl0se with Angelfish, Butterflyfish, and more.

Pro Tip: If you want to see the best snorkeling spots with zero hassle, consider joining this Multi-Beach Aruba Snorkeling Tour! You will stop at world class snorkeling beaches, and get roundtrip hotel transfers. BOOK YOUR SNORKELING TOUR HERE!

There is also a boardwalk area along Malmok Beach where lots of running, yoga, and sunset-watching take place. I found this beach to offer a nice blend of active lifestyle and calm tranquil sunsets.

Parking: street and lot parking.
What to pack: Pack your water shoes, snorkel gear, and the perfect beach towel.

7. Dos Playas

Location: Arikok National Park

Dos Playas offers visitors two for the price of one! Split by a large rock formation, this beach consists of two golden sandy coves tucked between tall limestone walls

This beach is within the borders of Arikok National Park, so be aware that it does require an entrance fee of $11 USD. However, I can tell you it is an $11 well spent!

This is a popular spot for experienced body-boarders but is definitely not recommended for the average swimmer. Even if you don’t swim here, though, it is worth a stop just to see the beauty.

Dos Playas showcases Aruba’s wild and unspoiled coast, which is likely to leave you breathless.

Parking: beachside parking on unpaved roads.
What to pack: Pack rugged trekking sandals to climb across the rocks, and don’t forget your camera.

8. Blackstone Beach

Location: North Coast

Blackstone Beach is located on the east side of the island, near Arikok National Park‘s northern border. This is another spot not considered safe to swim due to rough waters, but it is worth a visit nonetheless.

Literal black stones make up this beach rather than sand, and they spill directly into the water. It creates a beautiful, but very rugged, scene.

Additionally, you can find several small rock arches here if you walk and explore. After Aruba’s famous Natural Bridge collapsed, these are the next alternative.

Between the black stones and the impressive arches, it’s a great scenic beach!

Parking: beachside parking on unpaved roads.
What to pack: Pack rugged trekking sandals to climb across the rocks, and don’t forget your camera.

9. Arashi Beach

Location: Noord

Arashi Beach is located on the northern coast of Aruba, and it is a great option for snorkeling newbies due to its shallow water.

Additionally, the sandy floor is soft and smooth, and void of any rough and sharp coral. Small but colorful fish are plentiful.

Snorkelers should bring their own snorkel gear – I did not see any available rentals nearby.

Grab your gear and get here early. This is a popular spot and can get crowded, especially on weekends! Arashi Beach is accessible by public transportation, as well. See my Aruba transportation guide for details on how to get around the island.

Arashi Beach is hands down one of the best snorkeling beaches in Aruba!

Parking: parking t on site.
What to pack: Pack the perfect beach towel, a good book, and a wide brim hat.

You May Also Like: Are There Sharks in Aruba?

10. Tres Trapi

LOCATION: NOORD

I visited Tres Trapi toward the end of my trip, and boy am I glad I did. The triangular-shaped shore is stunning, and the blue water is one of the best snorkeling beaches in Aruba.

Tres Trapi literally means ‘three steps’ due to the three small steps carved into the rocks. It’s not a large beach for lounging by any means, but for those who want to see fish, this is a beautiful spot.

The highlight of Tres Trapi as opposed to nearby Malmok Beach are the large, bright starfish you can sometimes find on the sea floor.

Visitors can descend into the water via the staircase carved in the rocks, making it a unique beach experience altogether.

Parking: available nearby.
What to pack: Pack your own snorkel gear and the perfect beach towel.

11. Mangel Halto

Location: Pos Chiquito

Mangel Halto is probably the best snorkeling beach in Aruba as far as a colorful underwater treat.

Parrotfish, squid, and stingrays can all be found here, to name a few. The reef even plunges down to barracuda territory if you can dive that deep.

But, be careful of the strong currents found here. The seas can get rough!

And, note that the sea floor is covered with rocks that become more and more sparse the farther you get out.

Mangel Halto is located near Baby Beach and Savaneta, the former capital of Aruba.

Parking: available nearby.
What to pack: Pack your own snorkel gear, water shoes, and the perfect beach towel.

12. Eagle Beach

Location: Oranjestad

Eagle Beach is one of the most popular beaches in all of Aruba.

The long sandy beach stretches across the west side of the island, near the tourist center. The water is impossibly clear and the sand is so white, this is the beach that you’ve dreamed of!

There are some palapas provide shade but I would arrive early if you want one.

For those who can’t disconnect, note that this beach also has free wifi. This is absolutely one of the best beaches in Aruba for those who want to relax and unwind.

Parking: parking on site.
What to pack: Pack the perfect beach towel, sunglasses, and a wide brim hat.

13. Palm Beach

Location: Oranjestad

Palm Beach, like Eagle Beach, is one of the most popular beaches to visit in Aruba. It may be the most crowded of all, due to the central location in the tourist zone.

There are plenty of beach bars and food stalls along Palm Beach, so its easy to grab a meal while you are here without leaving the sand.

Palm Beach has very calm waters, which makes it great for swimming, too. It’s basically a great beach for lively crowds, swimmable waters, and lots of food and drinks.

Parking: parking on site.
What to pack: Pack the perfect beach towel, sunglasses, and a wide brim hat.

FAQs on the Best Beaches in Aruba

If you still have lingering questions about the best beaches in Aruba, hopefully these FAQ’s will help!

What are the best snorkeling beaches in Aruba?

Aruba’s best beaches for snorkeling are the following four:

1. Arashi Beach
2. Malmok Beach
3. Tres Trapi Beach
4. Mangel Halto

What are the best beaches for families in Aruba?

While I don’t personally have kids, I thought that this might be helpful for all of the families out there.

Many of Aruba’s beaches, particularly those on the eastern coast, are quite rocky and volatile. Definitely not the kind of place you want to take small children!

So I’ve picked my top three recommendations on where I frequently saw families with kids having a safe and enjoyable time at the beach.

1. Iguana Beach

Since children are only allowed on Flamingo Beach from 9-10am, this is where families and kids should go! While you may feel like it’s a forced choice, there are actually several pros to Iguana Beach over Flamingo Beach, like lots more shade and the availability of water sports.

2. Baby Beach

Baby Beach, which I also mentioned above, is a great place to bring kids because the water is relatively calm and shallow. Baby Beach offers a long stretch of sand and loads of space to spread out. Bring a sunshade though; there is not much offered at all.

3. Surfside Beach

Surfside Beach is conveniently located just a few minutes away from downtown Oranjestad, where most of the tourist accommodations sit. So if you need to lug a lot of children’s bags and toys, this is a short trek.

This beach is perfect for families with small children because the shallow water is super calm. Boats and yachts can be seen in the distance and snacks, food, and drinks can be bought at the beach bar and restaurant just off of the beach.

You May Also Like: Is Aruba Safe for Solo Female Travel?

Is Eagle Beach or Palm Beach better in Aruba?

It depends what you’re looking for! Eagle Beach provides a more calm and quiet atmosphere, while Palm Beach offers a lively party scene.

Are the beaches in Aruba swimmable?

Many beaches in Aruba are in fact swimmable. Baby Beach, Iguana Beach, Surfside Beach and Flamingo Beach are some of the most swimmable. The rocky beaches on the eastern coast are typically not swimmable.

What beach has the clearest water in Aruba?

Tres Trapi, Baby Beach and Arashi Beach all have crystal clear water.

Where is the Aruba sign located?

The colorful “ARUBA” sign, pictured above, is found in Oranjestad, in front of Surfside Beach and a row of restaurants and shops.

What beach do the locals go to in Aruba?

Locals hang out at many beaches in Aruba, the most popular being Baby Beach and Rodgers Beach.

Ready for Adventure? Subscribe Today.

Send me the newsletter

Unsubscribe at anytime.

Built with ConvertKit

Is it worth going to Flamingo beach Aruba?

Yes, it is definitely worth visiting Flamingo Beach while in Aruba! While it is a pricey experience, the unique chance to hang out with these birds on the beach is unmatched.

Which beach in Aruba has pink sand?

Baby Beach in Aruba is known for having a pink tint to the sand. Know in advance that it is not a bright or bold pink color, but rather a slight tint. For a pink sand beach in Aruba, the best choice is Baby Beach.

What beaches are free in Aruba?

All Aruba beaches are free, with the exception of Flamingo and Iguana Beaches.

Do you need a car in Aruba?

While it is not necessary to have a car in Aruba, it is definitely an advantage if you want to explore the whole island. Read more about transportation in Aruba here.

Are there stingrays in Aruba?

Yes, there are stingrays in Aruba! You may see them while snorkeling in some of Aruba’s best beaches, off the coast.

***

These top Aruba beaches were just what I needed to reawaken my love for the Caribbean islands. Even on such a small island, each of these beaches has it’s own unique look and feel to it.

No matter if you are looking for the best beaches in Aruba for snorkeling, or where to lounge and read a book, or where your family can swim and play, we have covered it here.

So which of these best beaches in Aruba are you dying to check out first?!

Pin Me for Later!