Aruba's best beaches (and one amazing swimming hole!)

Most beaches in Aruba are the very definition of paradise: palm trees, soft white sand and turquoise waters. But there are also some others that are exciting for water sports enthusiasts, perfect for families, great for marine life, and even some that are entirely atypical, yet breathtaking all the same.

These spots are guaranteed to make your island getaway unforgettable.

1. Eagle Beach

Best for a day out

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Having been named the best beach in the Caribbean several times, Eagle Beach is renowned for its wide stretch of pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters. There are shady spots, beach huts and all sorts of activities, such as yoga, snorkeling and beach tennis (a favorite among the locals, especially on weekends). It's a lot of fun to play on such soft sand, so feel free to watch or join in.

Note the beach is dotted with the iconic, photogenic Fofoti trees. They're often featured in advertising and social media – you've probably seen an image of Eagle Beach and its trees whilst researching for your trip to Aruba. This is also a key nesting site for four species of sea turtles, adding to Eagle's natural charm. Some parts of the beach may be closed to protect the nests.

Planning tip: If you plan to spend the day, bring enough cash. Some places charge at least 50 American dollars to rent two simple beach chairs for the day.

2. Hadicurari Beach (Fisherman's Huts)

Best for windsurfing and kitesurfing

If you are an adventure seeker or water sports lover, Hadicurari Beach is for you. It is the best place on the island for windsurfing and kitesurfing thanks to its steady winds and calm, shallow waters. Both beginners and experienced surfers come here to have a good time. Sign up for a class and try the sport out for yourself.

Aruba Hi-Winds, a windsurfing competition that takes place every summer, is the largest of its kind in the Caribbean. Sarah-Quita Offringa is an Arubian 24-time world champion windsurfer who often trains here when she isn’t competing internationally.

Whether you surf or not, make Hadicurari Beach part of your Aruba itinerary and enjoy the show of colorful kites in the sky.

3. Baby Beach

Best for families

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Near San Nicolas in the southern part of Aruba, you’ll find Baby Beach. It’s a wonderful place for families with young children. Thanks to its unique shape, the beach is quite protected, with shallow areas and only small waves. Make sure to stay in the designated areas as the bay opens up to the ocean.

With refreshment stands offering drinks, snacks and serving up BBQ and seafood, you'll be well fed. Rent beach chairs, windbreaks and snorkel gear, or simply relax in the shade of one of the free huts.

Planning tip: Baby Beach is about a 40-minute drive from Oranjestad.

4. Mangel Halto Beach

Best for snorkeling, kayaking and SUP

Mangel Halto Beach is a great place for adventurers who enjoy snorkeling, kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). And once you're done, spend the evening watching the sunset over a delicious seafood dinner.

The beach is located right next to the road, so it’s not super quiet, but the mangroves and the trillion shades of blue in the water make up for it. There are wooden decks and stairs in some parts of the beach and its surrounding area. Some of it is a sandy beach, some of it is rocky cliffs that aren’t too steep, but as the water is generally pretty shallow, you shouldn’t try to jump in.

Planning tip: Certified scuba divers will enjoy the reef that drops to approximately 30m (100ft) and is home to colorful fish, octopuses and barracudas.

5. Tres Trapi

Best for marine life

You’ll find Tres Trapi Beach – which translates to Three Steps in Papiamento – almost at the very northern tip of Aruba. Malmok Beach, Boca Catalina Beach and Arashi Beach are its neighbors, and they are all beautiful, but if you are looking for a special treat, then Tres Trapi is the spot for you.

Thanks to its clear waters, chances seeing turtles in the wild here are high. In fact, they're almost guaranteed, so bring your fins, mask and snorkel and enjoy the show. Note: keep a good distance from the marine wildlife and never attempt to touch them.

Planning tip: You can drive right up, park and hop in the water at Tres Trapi. You probably won’t be spending an entire day here, though, as there is hardly any shade and the rocks aren’t very comfortable.

Detour: Drive up to California Lighthouse at sunset and enjoy the magic and colors of the sun disappearing on the horizon.

6. Arashi Beach

Best for relaxing

Arashi Beach is especially popular with families because it is great for snorkeling, swimming and sunbathing. Palapas (sunshades) and sunbeds are available for rent, but feel free to bring one from your apartment or hotel, as many offer them free of charge. Beach huts, a lively bar and showers are also available. Occasional live music adds to its charm. The waves and currents are gentle and usually safe for swimmers.

Planning tip: If you enjoy snorkeling, you'll find marine life on the left side of the beach.

7. Natural Pool (Conchi)

Best for a unique Aruba experience

The Natural Pool (also called Conchi) is not technically a beach; it sits on the edge of the coast, encircled by rocks that break incoming waves. Located inside Arikok National Park and reached by 4WD, horseback or on foot, Conchi is an incredibly unique spot on the island. The desert landscape and rough rocks make this dip one of a kind. Water shoes are a good idea. 

Planning tip: To reach Conchi, you need to be an experienced off-road driver. If you have little to no experience, consider joining a 4WD tour with a driver.