Best Beaches in Aruba for Snorkeling
Kick back, relax and visit this “One Happy Island” that has some of the best beaches in the world. Aruba, one of the ABC islands in line with Bonaire and Curaçao, is known for its spectacular beaches, including Eagle Beach with its iconic Fofoti trees. The natural beauty of Aruba is a sight for any Caribbean traveler. The crystalline turquoise waters can be experienced throughout Aruba's vast 40 beaches. The beauty of the islands does not end at the beaches because you can explore the natural beauty of this popular Caribbean island, as 20% of the islands is a dedicated national park!
When you set off for your Caribbean adventure with Princess, snorkeling in Aruba should be a priority — whether you’re a first timer or an experienced snorkeler. The only challenge is deciding where to go first. To get you started, here are eight of the best beaches in Aruba for snorkeling.
1. Boca Catalina
The clear, shallow water at Boca Catalina makes it a dream come true for snorkelers — plus the minimal depth makes it a perfect place to learn. From angel fish to barracudas, keep your eyes peeled for the beautiful sealife like parrotfish, squid, blue crust coral and blue tangs. Snorkel here with Princess and also get to visit the Antilla shipwreck — a WWII wreck perfect for snorkeling.
2. De Palm Island
With its gentle surf, multitude of ideal snorkeling spots and an assortment of restaurants and spas, De Palm Island is a favorite among Caribbean cruise travelers and home to some of the best beaches in Aruba. Relax on the pillowy white sand or head to the kid-friendly water park with the whole family. When you visit De Palm Island with Princess, you can try an underwater helmet walk and take in the schools of parrotfish, curling coral formations and even a sunken shipwreck.
3. Palm Beach
Palm trees, casinos and beach shops, oh my! This two-mile strip of pristine white sand, is a picture-perfect Caribbean scene with some of the most pristine sand on the island. Collect shells along the shore, snorkeling to see the colorful parrotfish or shopping in the bustling seaside shops. When you snorkel here with Princess, you can enjoy unlimited drinks and relaxation on the shore and free time to explore the shops and restaurants.
4. Arashi Beach
A small, secluded beach that's dotted with huts for those seeking a moment of shade, this is one of the absolute best beaches in Aruba for snorkeling. At Arashi Beach, the water is so calm (perfect for first timers), and the white, powdery sand will feel like walking on a cloud. If you’re looking for a little adventure, swim out to the right of the beach where the water appears darker to explore the bustling coral reefs beneath the waves. Look for eels, angelfish, blue tangs and sea sponges.
5. Baby Beach
Baby Beach is the quintessential Aruban beach, a Caribbean Shangri-La, with pristine sand and azure waters. What makes this spot so perfect for snorkeling is that the water just off-shore is a shallow lagoon where sealife spends time but with currents and waves so tame it’s an ideal spot for new snorkelers. Baby Beach also happens to be a great place for kids because of how calm the water is, so bring the whole family — and stop for a boardwalk burger in the afternoon. Under the water you’ll find barracuda, squid, parrot fish, blowfish, angelfish and eels.
6. Mangel Halto
Often considered one of Aruba's top snorkeling spots, Mangel Halto is perfect for experienced snorkelers and those looking for vibrant underwater scenery. Located off the beaten path, this beach features calm, shallow waters near the shore, as well as deeper areas for more advanced snorkelers. Swim through thriving coral formations, spot schools of parrotfish, and even encounter eels and octopuses.
7. Malmok Beach
Just north of Palm Beach, Malmok Beach is a snorkeler's paradise known for its crystal-clear waters and rocky coastline teeming with marine life. Underneath the water, you’ll find those rocky shores are home to schools of fish like snappers, squirrelfish, surgeonfish, blue tangs and trumpetfish. You’ll also love the vibrantly colored coral and sea fans that look like a painting. Lucky snorkelers might even catch a glimpse of sea turtles gliding through the calm water.
8. Catalina Cove
If you love Boca Catalina but want a quieter spot, head next door to Catalina Cove — a peaceful, small beach with the same clear waters and tropical fish as Boca Catalina. Look beneath you as you swim because the ocean floor is covered with a seagrass forest with parrotfish darting in and out. Because it’s so close to another prime snorkeling spot, Catalina Cove is an easy addition to your beach day.
Start your snorkeling adventure with Princess
Aruba is a picture-perfect Caribbean destination — with a dry climate where you’ll hardly ever have a rainy day — and a snorkeler's paradise. Spending the day underneath the ocean among the rainbows of fish is the perfect way to make unforgettable vacation memories. Set sail to Aruba with Princess on a Caribbean cruise to start your adventure of a lifetime!