Aruba's best beaches

Welcome to Aruba, the enchanting ‘One Happy Island’ in the Caribbean. This tiny tropical gem, just off the coast of Venezuela, is known for its friendly locals, endless sunshine throughout the year, and, of course, its beautiful white sand beaches. So, let's shine a spotlight on these stunning shores and discover the beaches you simply can't miss during a holiday in Aruba.

Best for the wow factor: Eagle Beach

Eagle Beach, Aruba's crown jewel, regularly ranks on best beaches lists, most recently securing second place on TripAdvisor's 'Top 10 beaches in the world for 2023.' With miles of silky sand and low-rise luxury hotels like Bucuti and Tara Beach Resort Aruba and Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa, it's a dream for honeymooners. Despite its popularity, it never feels too overcrowded, but arriving early is best if you want to nab a shady palapa. Look out for the iconic twisted fofoti trees and don't miss the epic views during golden hour.

Best for a lively atmosphere: Palm Beach

Palm Beach is bustling with activity and is home to larger-than-life resorts such as Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort, Palm Beach and Ritz Carlton Aruba. As one of the busiest beaches, there’s an up-tempo atmosphere with happy hour cocktails flowing in the beach bars and good-time-goers mingling in cabanas under swaying palms. If you love water sports, there’s everything from wakeboarding to waterskiing, or you can just stroll along the promenade and soak up the atmosphere. After dark, roll the dice in one of the casinos or dance until dawn in a nightclub.

Best for Instagram vibes: Flamingo Beach

Ask anyone what the money shot photo is in Aruba, and they’ll likely say the pink flamingos frolicking on the beach. However, these magnificent birds aren't found everywhere on the island. To visit world-famous Flamingo beach, head to Renaissance Island, a private offshore resort. Be quick to secure a day pass as they sell out fast. Observing these brightly feathered avians makes for an extraordinary experience that will light up your social media.

Best for families: Baby Beach

Named for its calm and shallow waters, this crescent-shaped bay is a stunning spot and is ideal for young children to splash and enjoy the sea. The gentle beach slope keeps the water waist-deep, ensuring a worry-free experience for parents. There’s excellent snorkelling at the rocky area to the left of the bay – you can rent out snorkel gear as well as clamshell tents if shade is needed. Rum Reef restaurant is a top spot for lunch, with specials like red snapper and tacos on the menu, best washed down with a Fresh Fruit Daiquiri.

Best for snorkelling: Boca Catalina

Boca Catalina is a snorkeller's paradise. The crystal-clear waters teem with colourful fish and coral, and snorkellers of all levels can revel in the rich marine life just a few meters from the shoreline. Head in a little further, and you’ll reach the seagrass beds where you can often spot green turtles. There aren’t many facilities here, so if you're driving, pack a picnic and bring your own snorkelling gear. Alternatively, many hotels offer Catamaran trips which often include lunch and refreshments on board.

Best for natural beauty: Dos Playa

Aruba isn't all about sugar-white sands and teal waters; it has a wild side too. Beyond the resort areas, the landscape is akin to Arizona: flat, arid and adorned with cacti. In the rugged expanse of Arikok National Park, Dos Playa (two beaches) is dramatically nestled between rocky outcrops – a hidden haven accessible only by foot or boat. The sea is rough here and you’ll only find thrill-seeking surfers in the water, so it’s more a place for hiking, photo opportunities and away-from-it-all vibes.

©Aruba tourism

Best for seclusion: Rodger’s Beach

A little further down from Baby Beach, Rodger’s Beach is a hidden gem that’s favoured by locals. This secluded stretch of sand is the perfect spot for a serene day by the sea and has an authentic feel with colourful fishing boats anchored in the bay, providing a picturesque view. Dive into the clear-as-glass water or grab a book and soak up the peaceful surroundings.

Best for thrills: De Palm Island

This one’s not exactly a beach, but there are plenty of sandy strips on De Palm Island, Aruba’s ultimate playground. This vibrant and action-packed island makes for a great day out, especially for families staying in Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusive or Divi Aruba All Inclusive, as they can arrange a day pass here. Enjoy an array of water sports, from ziplining and banana boat rides to water slides and snorkelling. After getting your heart racing, bask on the sun-drenched beaches and indulge in all-inclusive food and drinks at the island's restaurants and bars.

©Aruba tourism