Dreaming of white sands and warm turquoise waters? In this post, I’ll share the dazzling beaches I discovered in Aruba—where powdery white sand, clear turquoise waters, and constant trade winds create the ultimate Caribbean escape. These beaches in Aruba deliver postcard-perfect beauty, calm swimming spots, and iconic Caribbean charm all year round.
If you are in a hurry, I recommend:
Recommended Beaches in Aruba:
1. Andicuri Beach
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Location:
Andicuri Beach, Windward Coastline, Aruba (near the collapsed Natural Bridge)Recommended For:
Bodyboarding enthusiasts, adventurous beachgoers, local experience seekers, and travelers craving a secluded coastal escape with rugged scenery.What I Love: ♥
Powerful surf perfect for bodyboarding, dramatic coral stone cliffs, low tourist traffic, and the raw beauty of Aruba’s windward side.- Bodyboard Aruba’s strongest surf—this beach hosts annual competitions thanks to its ideal wave conditions.
- Explore the secluded cove nestled between coral bluffs, offering both natural shade and dramatic photo opportunities.
- Relax away from the crowds on one of the island’s most peaceful stretches of coastline.
- Hike nearby trails to the remains of the Natural Bridge for panoramic views and geological intrigue.
Cost:
Free public access; no services or rentals onsite.Best time to visit:
Early mornings or late afternoons for gentler sun and fewer visitors. Ideal wave conditions often occur between March and August.Local tips:
Bring your own water, snacks, and shade—there are no amenities. Be respectful of restrictions: no vehicles or barbecues are allowed on the beach. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended for the bumpy access road.Distance:
About 20 minutes by car from Oranjestad and 15 minutes from the Natural Pool and Arikok National Park entrances.How to Get to Andicuri Beach:
Reachable via unpaved roads from the eastern side of the island. A high-clearance or 4WD vehicle is advised. Follow signage toward the Natural Bridge and turn off at local access paths—GPS is helpful as signs are minimal.2. Arashi Beach
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Location:
Arashi Beach (Arasji Beach), Noord District, Northwestern Aruba—near Malmok and the California LighthouseRecommended For:
Families, casual swimmers, snorkelers, scuba divers, and eco-conscious travelers seeking calm, scenic Caribbean beach days with amenities.What I Love: ♥
Soft white sand, safe and clear waters, vibrant marine life, eco-certification, and a lively atmosphere with music and beachside facilities.- Swim in gentle, safe waters perfect for all ages and experience levels.
- Snorkel or dive to discover reefs teeming with tropical fish and aquatic wonders.
- Relax under beach huts or rent lounge chairs to soak in the Aruban sun.
- Enjoy drinks and occasional live music at the beach bar, a local favorite hangout.
Cost:
Free public beach access. Fees apply for beach chair rentals, snorkel gear, and bar services.Best time to visit:
December to May for dry, sunny days and peak snorkeling clarity. Mornings and late afternoons offer cooler temps and softer light.Local tips:
Arrive early on weekends to grab a beach hut or rental chair. Bring reef-safe sunscreen. Participate in local conservation by respecting marine life and using provided trash disposal facilities—Arashi is Blue Flag-certified and part of the Aruba Reef Care Project.Distance:
About 15 minutes by car from Oranjestad; less than 10 minutes from Palm Beach resorts.How to Get to Arashi Beach:
Drive or taxi along the northern coastal road from Oranjestad or Palm Beach. The beach is well-signed and has parking nearby. Public buses also serve the area, with stops close to the beach entrance.Check the 10-day weather forecast for Arashi Beach
Romantic Beaches in Aruba:
3. Baby Beach
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Location:
Baby Beach, Colony Area, Southern ArubaRecommended For:
Beginner snorkelers, families, casual swimmers, and beachgoers looking for a scenic, calm, and family-friendly Caribbean escape.What I Love: ♥
Shallow, turquoise waters, rich marine life for easy snorkeling, cabana comforts, and a laid-back vibe in a stunning lagoon setting.- Snorkel in calm, clear waters and discover marine creatures like sea horses, baby squids, and colorful reef fish.
- Swim in a naturally protected lagoon perfect for children and less experienced swimmers.
- Relax in a shaded cabana or enjoy food and drinks from the nearby snack bar and restaurant.
- Explore the rich history of the Colony area, once a private community for refinery executives.
Cost:
Free public beach access. Snorkel gear and cabana rentals, as well as food and drinks, are available for purchase.Best time to visit:
Weekdays or early mornings to avoid weekend crowds. December to May offers dry weather and ideal snorkeling conditions.Local tips:
Bring reef-safe sunscreen and water shoes if exploring rocky edges. Arrive early for the best cabana spots. Great for families and beginner snorkelers—rent gear on-site for convenience.Distance:
About 30–35 minutes by car from Oranjestad and Palm Beach; 10 minutes from San Nicolas.How to Get to Baby Beach:
Drive south from Oranjestad or Palm Beach along Route 1, following signs for San Nicolas and Baby Beach. Taxis and rental cars are both reliable. Ample parking is available near the beach entrance.4. Bachelors Beach
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Location:
Bachelors Beach (Boca Tabla), Southeastern Aruba—near Boca Grandi and San NicolasRecommended For:
Kitesurfers, windsurfers, solitude seekers, and travelers looking for an untouched, windblown coastal escape far from the crowds.What I Love: ♥
Remote tranquility, strong and steady trade winds for high-adrenaline water sports, and a raw, undeveloped beachfront perfect for off-the-grid moments.- Kitesurf or windsurf on powerful winds in an open-water playground beloved by experienced riders.
- Escape the busy tourist zones and reconnect with Aruba’s rugged, natural coastline.
- Explore nearby Boca Grandi for even more kitesurfing options and striking coastal views.
- Unplug in a quiet setting free of modern distractions—just sand, surf, and sky.
Cost:
Free public access. No rentals or facilities available—bring all essentials with you.Best time to visit:
Year-round for windsurfing and kitesurfing, with the most reliable trade winds from December to August. Visit during weekdays for maximum solitude.Local tips:
Swimming and snorkeling are not advised due to strong currents and rough surf. There are no restrooms, food vendors, or shade—pack water, snacks, and sun protection. Best suited for experienced surfers or travelers prepared for a remote experience.Distance:
Around 30–35 minutes by car from Aruba’s hotel zone and 10–15 minutes from downtown San Nicolas.How to Get to Bachelors Beach:
Travel southeast from San Nicolas via Route 1 or local roads toward Boca Grandi. Bachelors Beach lies nearby—look for small access trails leading to the sand. A rental car is strongly recommended due to the remote nature of the site.View Bachelors Beach on Google Maps
Family Beaches in Aruba:
5. Barcadera Beach
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Location:
Barcadera Beach, near Barcadera Port and Balashi, southeast of Oranjestad and Queen Beatrix International Airport, ArubaRecommended For:
Snorkelers, drift divers, wind and kitesurfers, nature lovers, and travelers looking for a quiet, undeveloped stretch of sand near the capital.What I Love: ♥
Calm, clear waters perfect for low-key water sports, mangrove-lined shores, dune landscapes, and the serene atmosphere of this often-overlooked coastal gem.- Swim or snorkel in shallow turquoise waters with excellent visibility and minimal waves.
- Drift dive along Barcadera Reef to spot vibrant marine life like angelfish, barracudas, and moray eels.
- Windsurf or kitesurf in consistent trade winds that blow gently across this open beach area.
- Explore the coastal scenery dotted with sand dunes and native mangroves for a quiet, wild beach experience.
Cost:
Free public beach access. No rental facilities—bring your own gear and supplies.Best time to visit:
December to May for the most pleasant air and sea conditions. Mornings and weekdays offer maximum solitude.Local tips:
There are no public restrooms, showers, or food vendors—come prepared with water, snacks, and sun protection. Suitable for independent travelers and water sports enthusiasts who prefer natural settings.Distance:
Approximately 15 minutes by car from Oranjestad and less than 10 minutes from Queen Beatrix International Airport.How to Get to Barcadera Beach:
Drive southeast from Oranjestad along Route 1B toward Balashi and Barcadera Port. The beach is accessible via local roads and unpaved turnoffs—GPS is helpful. Parking is available near the shoreline.6. Black Stone Beach
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Location:
Black Stone Beach, near Andicuri Beach and Arikok National Park, Eastern ArubaRecommended For:
Nature photographers, geology buffs, hikers, and beachgoers seeking a unique, quiet escape far from the tourist trail.What I Love: ♥
Aruba’s only black sand shoreline, the striking contrast of polished volcanic stones against turquoise water, dramatic coastal cliffs, and proximity to a natural triple-arch limestone formation.- Stroll the unique black sand beach, scattered with smooth, dark stones created by years of wave erosion.
- Admire the nearby natural bridge formations carved into coastal limestone by the sea.
- Picnic in a serene, off-the-grid setting surrounded by rugged beauty and crashing waves.
- Explore trails leading into Arikok National Park for panoramic views and geological features.
Cost:
Free public access. No entry fee required, but plan your visit as part of a broader Arikok National Park exploration if desired.Best time to visit:
Early morning or late afternoon for dramatic lighting and comfortable temperatures. Dry season (December to May) offers clearer skies and easier trail access.Local tips:
Swimming and snorkeling are not safe here due to rough waves and strong currents. Wear sturdy shoes for walking across rocky sections. Bring your own water, food, and shade—there are no facilities or vendors onsite.Distance:
About 25 minutes by car from Oranjestad and 10 minutes from the Natural Bridge and Andicuri Beach area.How to Get to Black Stone Beach:
Drive or hike from the Andicuri Beach or Arikok National Park area via unpaved roads—4WD recommended. GPS or local guides are useful, as signage is minimal. No official parking area, but roadside pull-offs are available nearby.View Black Stone Beach on Google Maps
Unique Beaches in Aruba:
7. Boca Prins
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Location:
Boca Prins, Arikok National Park, Eastern ArubaRecommended For:
Hikers, photographers, beachcombers, and adventurers looking to explore the wilder side of Aruba’s coastline and inland park trails.What I Love: ♥
Towering dunes, dramatic waves crashing on rugged cliffs, hidden trailheads into Arikok National Park, and an untamed, photogenic shoreline far from the resort scene.- Explore scenic sand dunes and rugged trails leading into the heart of Arikok National Park.
- Stroll the beach’s compact but captivating shoreline—ideal for quiet walks and nature photography.
- Beachcomb for driftwood, shells, and natural treasures left by the ocean's powerful tides.
- Surf under the right conditions (experienced surfers only)—check with locals or park rangers before entering the water.
Cost:
Boca Prins is inside Arikok National Park, which has a general entry fee (~$11 USD per adult). No additional beach fee.Best time to visit:
Dry season (December to May) for optimal trail conditions and sunny photo opportunities. Mornings and late afternoons offer the best light and cooler temperatures.Local tips:
Swimming and snorkeling are not safe due to powerful currents and rough surf. Wear sturdy shoes if you plan to hike. Bring your own water, snacks, and sun protection—no facilities are available. Ideal for combining with visits to Fontein Cave or the Natural Pool.Distance:
About 35–40 minutes by car from Oranjestad or Palm Beach areas. Closest access point is via the Arikok Park Visitor Center.How to Get to Boca Prins:
Enter Arikok National Park and follow signs toward Boca Prins Bay. A 4WD vehicle is recommended due to rugged paths. Park near the cliff-top overlook and descend the stairs to reach the beach. GPS or park-provided maps are helpful for navigation.View Boca Prins on Google Maps
If you are a photographer, don't miss:
8. Daimari Beach, Aruba
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Location:
Daimari Beach, near Daimari Ranch, Arikok National Park, Northern Eastern ArubaRecommended For:
Horseback riders, nature photographers, off-the-beaten-path explorers, and beachgoers seeking dramatic coastal scenery without the swimming crowds.What I Love: ♥
The hidden cove framed by limestone cliffs, historic charm of Daimari Ranch, rugged horseback trails, and the raw natural beauty of Aruba’s northeastern coastline.- Ride horseback from the historic Daimari Ranch through scenic trails that open to a breathtaking beachside reveal.
- Explore the limestone rock formations and cliffside views overlooking the wild, wind-swept cove.
- Photograph the unspoiled, wave-thrashed coastline—perfect for landscape and wildlife photography.
- Escape the resort scene with a weekday visit for solitude in one of Aruba’s lesser-known gems.
Cost:
Free public access to the beach. Horseback tours and amenities at Daimari Ranch are available at additional cost.Best time to visit:
Weekday mornings or late afternoons for fewer crowds and dramatic lighting. December to May offers the most comfortable weather and trail conditions.Local tips:
Swimming and snorkeling are not safe due to strong waves and surf. Wear closed-toe shoes and bring sun protection and water. Use the ranch facilities before heading down to the beach, as there are no public restrooms on-site.Distance:
Around 20 minutes by car from Oranjestad. Approximately 4 km north of Dos Playa within Arikok National Park.How to Get to Daimari Beach:
Drive through Arikok National Park following signs to Daimari Ranch. A 4WD vehicle is helpful for rugged sections. Park at the ranch and either hike or join a horseback tour down the coastal trail to the beach. GPS or park maps recommended for navigation.📔 I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
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Where is Aruba located?
- Aruba is a beautiful Dutch-owned island in the Caribbean, located off the coast of Venezuela.
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What is Aruba known for?
- The island is known for its year-round sunny, dry weather and European-influenced architecture and cities.
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Where can visitors go kitesurfing and windsurfing in Aruba?
- Boca Grandi is one of Aruba's premier spots for kitesurfing and windsurfing.
🌤 Best Time to Visit Beaches in Aruba
- December to April – Best overall time for sunny skies, warm weather, and perfect beach days.
- January to March – Peak season with ideal conditions, vibrant nightlife, and popular beach events.
- May to August – Fewer crowds, great deals, and steady trade winds for breezy relaxation.
- September to November – Warm and less busy; Aruba is south of the hurricane belt, so storms are rare.
- Year-Round – Consistently warm temps and crystal-clear waters make Aruba a beach paradise anytime.
Map:
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