We’ve rounded up some of our favorite beaches in Aruba that you simply cannot miss out on. From soft white sand beaches with palm trees swaying in the wind, to wild and unruly beaches on the East Coast, we’ve got a unique mix of beaches for you to experience.

While it’s a known fact that every beach is worth visiting in Aruba, and all for different reasons, we realize you may not have enough time to see them all, so check out our list below to help decide which ones to add to your must-visit list!

What more needs to be said? Eagle Beach is… simply perfection. You very well may have already heard of this beach, as it is one of the top-rated beaches in the world, time and time again. A wide, spacious beach with plenty of palapas and some shaded tree areas to plop down under to spend the day relaxing. With the soft white sugary sand and nice open water conditions, it is a great place for a swim. Let’s just say it is the epitome of a perfect beach in paradise and therefore this is a no brainer to add to your list. Eagle Beach is located in the low-rise hotel area.

This beach may be smaller in size compared to others, but it is just what you need to have yourself a perfect and relaxing day in paradise! Boca Catalina is beautiful and peaceful, and offers great scenery (you’ll have a great view of the passing catamarans, boats and adorable pelicans). This area also has perfect conditions for snorkeling, you will find a diversity of marine life very close to shore.

Close to Baby Beach, this soft, white sand beach is a bit hidden but definitely worth the find. Once you’ve reached an old turquoise painted staircase (a stairway to heaven) you’ve found it! This beautiful and unique spot is known for its calm waters and private feel giving you a serious dose of relaxation, there is a floating dock perfect for sunbathing. Rodgers Beach is quiet, ready and waiting for you.

Palm Beach is a two-mile strip known for its white sand and turquoise water. Looking for a little action and fun? This place is filled with it but don’t worry there is still room for plenty of relaxation! This beach is a popular hangout for tourists as it is concentrated in front of the high-rise resorts. There is a long sidewalk that runs along the strip making it a great place for a walk with a view. Take a peek for yourself. This lively beach with calm and clear waters is great for swimming, sun-tanning, relaxing, and socializing. Both young and old will find everything they need as the beach features several beach bars, restaurants, hotels, and watersports companies.

Located just past (and to the right of) the big red anchor in Sero Colorado, Boca Grandi is a wild and blue heaven for experienced and daring kite surfers. Making for the perfect place to sit and watch the surfers glide by! This is not a beach for swimming Find yourself some shade from the strong sun under one of the several handmade driftwood shacks spotted along the coastline.

Located nearby the Spanish lagoon, in Pos Chiquito (South of the airport in the direction of Savaneta), Mangel Halto is secluded, peaceful and intimate. There are plenty of little nooks and crannies to discover at this unique beach. Choose from the sandy and lush mangrove spots), or one of the mysterious old rock stairways leading down to the calm and mesmerizing shades of blue. Mangel Halto is not your typical sandy, widespread beach it is more ideal for a quick dip, taking plenty of pictures of the breathtaking view or having a picnic.

Baby Beach is located at the Southern tip of the island, just past San Nicolas, on the other side of the island from the popular hotel area. The clear turquoise water in this picturesque bay is warm, shallow, and is sheltered from the rough seas by a man-made breakwater. Picture a pool of pretty shades of blue, calm and shallow – perfect for wading the day away! This beach is popular for sunbathing, snorkeling, and the perfect hang-out for families, as the water level is generally between knee and waist-deep, making it a perfect place for kids to swim. With this being said, don’t let its name fool you, just like any beach on the island, if you approach the end of the bay the current gets stronger, always remain cautious.

A nice quiet and relaxing beach with calm water, white sand, palapas & huts, a snack shack, and a large parking lot. The calm currents and plentiful underwater marine life make this beach a perfect spot for snorkeling and a favorite with locals. Arashi Beach is the last stretch of beach on the Northwestern side of Aruba and is located past Boca Catalina just before the California Lighthouse.

While Tres Trapi is not exactly a beach, and more of a nook found among the carved-out rock and coral walls, once you take the stairs down to the sand, you’ll witness one-of-a-kind crystal clear water conditions and have yourself a dip of a lifetime! If you’re lucky you’ll even spot a sea turtle or two. Please remember to keep a safe distance between you and all of the marine life you discover under the sea. Its location is a bit hidden, you’ll find it situated between Malmok and Boca Catalina on the Northwestern side of the island.

Druif Beach, also referred to as Divi Beach to some, is a mile-long, stretch of beach between Oranjestad and Eagle Beach. This beach is home to several Divi Resorts and a picturesque beach bar just steps away from the soft white sand beach – a perfect place to watch the sun go down! This beach is a bit closer to the downtown area than other beaches, so if you need to stay closer to Oranjestad or the cruise ship terminal, this is the beach for you. If you walk a bit further down you can also reach Eagle Beach, that’s right, two beaches in one day!

This unique spot is a bit hidden and off the map (let’s just say it takes an adventure to get here), but it is most definitely worth making the effort to get to! It’s located on the wild Northeast coast, in between Rancho Daimari and Conchi (The Natural Pool). You can either drive a jeep into the National Park and park nearby and walk the rest of the way or, you can hike from the Rancho Daimari area. Once you arrive you will find it to be wildly refreshing… just you, the ocean and nature. What more could you ask for?

If Aruba has been on your list to visit, it’s likely you have “go see the flamingos” listed towards the top of your vacation to-do’s. Well, let it be known, while every now and then (if you’re very lucky) you can catch a wild flock passing by the island, the place to find them is on Renaissance Island (they can now also be found on De Palm Island). This tropical oasis is a short ride away from Renaissance Marina downtown. The island belongs to the Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort and is exclusively available to their guests. Day passes are available for purchase (for non-resort guests) when the resort occupancy rate is not too high. The island includes a spa, restaurant & bar, plenty of lounge chairs, as well as private luxury beach cabanas over the water and on the beach available to rent.

Check out our beach map to find specific beach locations across the island.

View more beaches and attractions & sights in Aruba to visit.

Mark your calendars, Aruba has some big events coming up, and if you’re looking to visit the island soon you won’t want to miss out on them! Check out the following events below:

When: May 8 – 13

What’s it all about: The annual Aruba Hi-Winds is getting close and that means locals and international windsurfers and kitesurfers are preparing their gear for some serious action. It’s the largest watersport event of its kind in the Caribbean. Not only will you see wind and kitesurfing, but there’s also kite foiling, paddleboarding (SUP) and even mountain biking. Get ready for big air, endless competitions and plenty of music and parties on the beach from day til night.

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When: May 22-27

What’s it all about: Held on Memorial Day weekend, this festival draws attendees from all over to our “One Happy Island” for one of the biggest music festivals in the Caribbean. The festival highlights a long extended weekend of events, such as beach parties, nightclub parties, a comedy night, and two big music concerts featuring world-renowned artists. Each year SBMF manages to get bigger and bigger, bringing in top artists and entertainers to provide the utmost entertainment for concertgoers. This year’s comedy show and two-day music concert lineup include Earthquake, Boyz II Men, Mariah Carey, and DJ Jazzy Jeff!

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When: June 1

We’ve got what the Island has been waiting for. After a 5 year long hiatus Flip Flop Festival is making a splash of a return! Mark your calendars for June 1st, 2024 as we bring back the sun, sand, and flip-flop fun. Flip Flop is calling! Flip Flop Festival is one of the biggest music festivals in Aruba. You can expect nothing but loads of fun, music and entertainment on the beach. Stay tuned, the 2024 official artist lineup and event details will be published as soon they are released!

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When: June 28-30

What’s it all about: The mission of Aruba’s Regatta is to create a platform connecting people with great watersport experiences, and the Regatta especially focuses on the young sailor community, aiming to grow the next generation of sailors on the island. The Regatta believes that sport plays a major role in ensuring a sustainable future for our current and next generations. As we learn to sail, we develop respect and the desire to care for the ocean, as stewards of the wonderful world around us.

Every year the event has 2 days filled with races and fun on the beach. Sailors from Curacao and Bonaire also come to join in on the fun. Those expected to participate in this year’s event include mini sailboats, beachcats, optimists, kites, IQ-Foils, windsurfers, sunfishes, lasers, and yachts. The main event is usually held at Surfside Beach, however races and competitions usually also take place at Fisherman’s Huts and Governor’s Bay Beach (by West Deck).

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When: August (date still TBA)

What’s it all about: This year marks the 6th edition of Aruba’s “I Do” Vow Renewal ceremony. The largest vow renewal ceremony ever to be held in the Caribbean will take place during Aruba’s glowing sunset hour on the one and only, world-famous Eagle Beach, recently voted the no. 1 beach in the Caribbean and no. 2  beach in the world!

Do you want to create memories that will undoubtedly last a lifetime and join in on this dreamy and romantic experience? To take part in this special day, simply register with the Aruba Tourism Authority. Couples are encouraged to dress in white with pops of Caribbean colors. The ceremony is free, yes you’ve read that right, free! So, will you take part in the Caribbean’s most romantic day of the year? Stay tuned the official ceremony date will be released soon!

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Browse our site for more things to do and see in Aruba.

*Main featured photo by Aruba Hi-Winds

To all the sunshine seekers still defrosting from winter, are you craving a little spring getaway to warm up? If so, you may just want to put Aruba at the top of your destination options. Check out our list below to learn why spring makes for the perfect time to visit Aruba!

Visiting Aruba after high season ends means you’re likely to take advantage of lower airfare and accommodation rates. The high season officially comes to a close beginning of April. Make sure to book your trip in April or May (or look ahead into the summer months for friendly prices as well).

Browse resorts, smaller apartment hotels, boutique hotels, all-inclusive resorts, vacation rentals, and timeshares in Aruba.

Spring falls outside of Aruba’s rainy season! Yes, Aruba has a rainy season. Our island tends to see more rainfall beginning in October and November and lasting through January. However, if showers occur, they are typically brief and the sunshine returns soon thereafter (so don’t you worry). In the event of a nearby passing tropical storm, rainfall can be heavier and last longer than usual. 

With this being said, if you travel to Aruba during the Spring, you are even more likely to avoid any real rain event, no showers, just warm sunshine!

After high season ends, you will also be able to take advantage of perhaps the best treat of all, less crowds and more open space to explore the island! Enjoy more wide open space on each of the breathtaking beaches of the island, room to explore the island’s best sights & attractions without bumping into crowds, and you will have an all-around easier time making last-minute restaurant and tour & activity reservations. 

Keep in mind the island can get a bit busier during popular holidays or school vacation periods, however the crowds do not compare to those during the winter months.

Browse Aruba’s beaches, our Beach Guide and tours & activities.

In addition to the lesser crowds, our island is rather small in size. So, if you can only manage to book a quick getaway, you still have the opportunity to explore much of the island and enjoy as many relaxing beach days as possible!

Aruba is only about 21 miles long and 6 miles wide, making it easy to travel throughout the island and explore in an efficient manner. We suggest dedicating 1-2 days visiting different sights, attractions, restaurants, and different areas of the island.

Aruba’s terrain is very diverse and unique, there is so much natural beauty on the island to discover and immerse yourself in. If you’re planning a visit, you’ll want to visit Arikok National Park. Our island’s national park covers about 20% of the island and is the perfect place to explore the diverse natural beauty that Aruba has to offer. Simply purchase a day pass at the park’s visitors center and be on your way! You can do so by jeep or opt for a more active and environmentally-friendly way and go hiking. There are plenty of natural sites and attractions (caves, gold ruins, wild beaches, hiking trails, natural pools, and more) on the wild east coast of the island. It is sure to leave you fascinated by just how different it is from the other side of the island, which is home to the majority of our island’s resorts and calmer beaches.

Also, be sure to check out the following sights. Some of our favorite places include the Natural Pool (Conchi), Small Cave Pool, Fontein Cave and Freshwater Pond, Hooiberg, Alto Vista Chapel,  Spanish Lagoon, and the street art, museums and restaurants in San Nicolas.

View more things to do in Aruba and start your vacation planning with us.

*Main featured photo by Hilton Aruba

March 18th marks a very special day in Aruba – it is a local holiday, known as “Dia di Himno y Bandera“, which translates to Anthem and Flag Day. Aruba’s National Anthem and Flag Day is a day filled with immense pride and celebration for our “Dushi Tera” (sweet land). On this day, all across the island, you will see locals with proud smiling faces and flags waving high in Aruba’s warm breeze.

This holiday commemorates the day when both the flag and anthem of Aruba were officially adopted in 1976. The date was chosen to coincide with the date that a petition for Aruban independence was presented on March 18, 1948 (almost thirty years earlier).

Later, on January 1, 1986, Aruba at last obtained its “Status Aparte”, making the island an autonomous country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands, thanks to the leading guidance and tireless efforts by our local hero, Gilberto Francois ‘Betico’ Croes.

On Anthem & Flag Day, also known as “Aruba Day”, the island will display Aruba’s beautiful colors with great pride, attend traditional activities & events, and of course, indulge in plenty of delicious local food! View some of the activities and dining specials offered on this special day.

Aruba’s flag is a light blue field with two horizontal yellow lines, a red star and white border. Did you know the four colors of the flag each have a special significance to Aruba?

The blue represents the beautiful and alluring sea that surrounds our happy little island. We like to refer to this shade of blue as the one and only, “Aruba blue”, our favorite kind!

Yellow is the color of abundance, representing the island’s past and its industries of gold, aloe, oil, and tourism. And, as you may have thought, the yellow also stands for Aruba’s ever-so-bright and warm sunshine that our visitors love so much. And, lastly, it also represents our beautiful flora that blooms yellow, such as the Kibrahacha, Brazil, Bonchi di Strena, Curahao, Tuturutu and Wanglo.

Red is for the ancient industry of Brazil Wood and the great love each Aruban has for the country. The red also stands for a more somber reason: it is a tribute to Aruba’s first inhabitants, an ode to the native people of Aruba, the Caquetio Indians, whose blood was shed in the Rooi Frances for the freedom of Aruba during Colonial times.

The white symbolizes the soft powdery white-sand beaches, as well as the purity of the hearts of Aruba’s people who strive for justice, order, and liberty.

The Symbols

The symbols on the flag include a 4-pointed star and two yellow stripes.

According to the Aruban Government, the special star “represents the four points of a compass and symbolizes the origin of the population coming from all corners of the world”. Did you know that Aruba’s citizens come from over 100 different countries? Yes, Aruba is incredibly diverse, a beautiful and unique melting pot blending many people and cultures together. In addition, it is also said to represent the island itself, which is surrounded by the bright blue sea.

As for the two horizontal yellow stripes, it is said they have two meanings. First, they are reminiscent of the status aparte movement, representing the free and separate position Aruba enjoys within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Second, they pay tribute to the two exports of the past, gold and petrol.

Aruba Dushi Tera, which can be translated as either ‘Aruba Sweet Land’ or ‘Aruba Precious Country’, is the title of our National Anthem. It’s a beautiful waltz composed by Rufo Wever and written by Juan Chabaya ‘Padu’ Lampe, along with Hubert Booi, who wrote an additional verse in 1976. It was formally accepted as the national anthem on March 18, 1976. The love and pride for our island are felt through this simplistic, yet mighty song. Take a look (or listen) for yourself, you can view the lyrics here (the original in Papiamento along with a translated version in English).

Visit our website to discover more about Aruba!

Are you ready to explore the diverse natural beauty that Aruba has to offer? We’ve rounded up 12 of our favorite sights that are worth seeking while on the island!

This unique beach on the wild East Coast is a bit hidden and off-the-map, however, it is most definitely worth making the effort to get to! Tip: Park near Rancho Daimari (horse ranch) and hike to the beach. We promise you, it is worth the hike. Once you arrive, you will find it to be wildly refreshing… just you, the ocean and nature. What more could you ask for? PS: Make sure you never leave anything behind other than your footprints.

When you hear of Aruba, you are likely to picture nothing but white sandy beaches, turquoise water and palm trees swaying in the wind. Well, what if we were to tell you there is SO much more diverse beauty to discover? And, one of those natural beauty standouts, is without a doubt, the Spanish Lagoon, also known as the Spaans Lagoen. The lagoon starts on the coast near Mangel Halto and ends close to the Balashi Gold Ruins further inland.

This area is protected to ensure that nature can flourish as it should. This area contains a great diversity of essential habitats, which support many different ecological communities, mainly bird and fish species. It is even home to the Shoco, Aruba’s small and precious burrowing owls. This is the perfect site for bird and photography enthusiasts, as there are many beautiful snapshots to be captured. Note: It is of utmost importance to walk with caution and respect the nature and wildlife that resides here, and yes, as you may have guessed, please only leave your footprints behind!

The Natural Pool (also known as Conchi) is protected from the rough sea by surrounding rocks and is located in the National Park. This unique formation of rocks creates a peaceful place and is also known as Aruba’s hidden pool. For thrill-seekers, this place is excellent for taking a dip to cool off and a perfect place to capture natural beauty with your camera. It is not recommended to swim in the pool when the waves are too high as it can be dangerous, please follow the advisories on display by the national park rangers. To get to the natural pool a jeep is needed, or if you are up for a long, intense hike, walking is an alternative – prepare for rough grounds ahead!

Heading to the northwestern side of the island, this beach is located behind the California Lighthouse. It often goes unseen and is less visited due to the hidden path to get there (you will need to reach it on foot). It’s quite a unique spot on the island, as there is pink sand to be found here, yes pink sand! You will have a spectacular view of the wild waves crashing into the many beautiful rock formations that are spread throughout the water.

The Natural Bridge was formed naturally over the centuries by the pounding sea. Unfortunately, the Natural Bridge collapsed back in September 2005. Before its collapse, it spanned more than 100 feet (30 meters) and stood 23 feet (7 meters) above sea level, making it the largest of its kind in the Caribbean. The collapse left a “Natural Baby Bridge” which can still be visited, it is approximately 25 feet wide and only 3 feet above sea level. The coastline view here is breathtaking, allowing for some beautiful photography.

Head to the Fontein Cave which is located in the National Park near Boca Prins. The cave is absolutely worth venturing in, as it is the only cave that has drawings of Arawak Indians on the ceilings, providing a real sense of island history to this cave. The brownish-red paintings were left by Caquetios and graffiti was imprinted by European settlers.

After visiting the cave make your way further down the dirt path and you will find the only natural freshwater pond on the island, if you dare, take your shoes off, stick your feet in, and get yourself a little fish pedicure!

Aruba’s National Park has endless beauty to discover and plenty of hiking options! Step into the park and make your way to the rugged and beautiful North Coast. As you pass the beautiful green cacti, vegetation, sand dunes, abandoned mines, caves, rugged rock formations, herds of goats, singing birds, and approach the coast…you will see the dramatic, darker blue waters clash against the rocks, an impressive sight to see! Don’t miss out on the Fontein Cave and Freshwater Pond, as well as Guadirikiri Cave. There are many bocas (inlets), trails and sights to discover within the Park, so there is plenty of walking to be done here (if you’re not exactly a hiking enthusiast, we recommend joining a guided tour or renting a jeep). For a preview, join us on a virtual hike as we trek through it all.

One of the most hidden sights on the island. Without asking a local to show you where it lies, it’s practically impossible to find! And sorry, we are not going to fully give away its location, because that would leave less of a fun adventure for you when the time comes to find it on your own. It’s located just past Baby Beach, across the road among all of the rubble, cacti and vegetation. This tunnel makes for a thrilling activity, especially for the kids. Take caution as to get down to the well tunnel, you must climb down a very steep set of stairs.

Visit the Ayo Rock Formations for some peace and reflection and take in the beautiful scenery (don’t forget your camera). You can stroll through loads of massive boulders of different shapes and sizes shaped by the forces of nature. There are paved paths and steps in between the boulders that allow visitors to walk through and get to the top of the rocks which are in close formation. There are restrooms and a picnic area on-site!

Located nearby the big red anchor in Sero Colorado, Boca Grandi is a wild and blue heaven for experienced and daring kite surfers. Making for the perfect place to sit and watch the surfers glide by! Find yourself some shade from the strong sun under one of the several handmade driftwood shacks spotted along the coastline. This is a refreshing and invigorating place to escape everyday life. Not to mention, it’s easy to get to, as it’s situated off the main road. PS: You can expect a lot of strong wind at this location, hence why all of the kite surfers flock here!

While you may have heard of Aruba’s Conchi (Natural Pool) we have a different natural pool on our list! We like to consider this natural pool as the “baby natural pool”. It may be smaller in size, but finding and exploring this natural sight is filled with plenty of thrill and adventure. Best of all, you can reach the Small Cave Pool by car, just make your way to the Bushiribana Gold Mine Ruins and then head diagonally across to the coast’s edge. PS: Take caution, as you will need to climb down a very steep ladder in order to reach the rocks and pool cave.

Head to the sand dunes near the California Lighthouse for a stroll and watch the sunrise or sunset (that all depends on if you’re a morning or night person of course). Take in the peaceful surroundings and unique setting. This beautiful sight to see is the perfect way to start or end your day!

For all the underwater enthusiasts out there, scuba diving in Aruba is one of the most unforgettable experiences that you simply cannot miss out on. The island is known for its numerous wreck dive sites that are easily accessible by boat (some even rather close to shore), perfect for exploring the vibrant array of coral and marine life, including sting rays, moray eels, barracuda, lobsters, and other exotic sea life. If you’re lucky enough (or know where to go) you can even witness sleeping nurse sharks and dive along the beautiful and gentle sea turtles.

To discover Aruba’s best dive sites and get more details on each site, browse our dive sites section. Here you will be able to view useful information and highlights on each dive site to better prepare for your dive experience, such as the recommended diver skill level required, depth range of the site, nearby location, marine life, and more. In addition, you can view a map of scuba diving locations. Want to sign up for a diving course or join a dive tour? Contact Red Sail Aruba.

If you aren’t qualified to go diving, or, if it seems a bit too extreme for you, opt for snorkeling instead. There are plenty of amazing beaches to head to for a fun and relaxing day of snorkeling. Don’t want to head out on your own? You can also book a sail and snorkel cruise or an island tour with a snorkel stop.

Discover more breathtaking sights and things to do in Aruba.