This Caribbean island offers some of the best snorkeling excursions, where beginners and experienced snorkelers alike can explore vibrant coral reefs, swim alongside colorful fish and even encounter shipwrecks teeming with sea life. Here's your guide to the best places to snorkel in Aruba, where the underwater world is waiting to be discovered.
1. Boca Catalina
Boca Catalina is a small, secluded bay located in the Malmok Beach area, known for its crystal-clear waters and excellent snorkeling conditions. This spot is ideal for families and those new to snorkeling because of its calm waters and easily accessible beach. The area is abundant with colorful fish, sea turtles and even occasional rays. Boca Catalina offers a serene snorkeling experience, making it one of the top choices for snorkeling in Aruba.
2. Mangel Halto
Located near Pos Chiquito on the south coast, Mangel Halto is renowned for its shallow waters and diverse marine ecosystems. This hidden gem features a unique network of mangroves and a sandy plateau that drops off into a rich coral reef, home to parrotfish, yellowtail snapper and even moray eels. Mangel Halto’s calm and clear waters make it perfect for both snorkeling and free diving, offering an immersive experience for adventurous snorkelers.
3. The Antilla Shipwreck
For those interested in exploring underwater historical sites, snorkeling at the Antilla Shipwreck is a must. This German WWII freighter, which is one of the Caribbean’s largest shipwrecks, lies just off the coast of Arashi Beach. The shipwreck is now a thriving artificial reef, housing a variety of marine life including tube sponges, coral formations and schools of tropical fish. The top of the wreck is accessible to snorkelers, making this site a fascinating visit for history buffs and marine enthusiasts alike.
4. Arashi Beach
Arashi Beach is located at the northern tip of the island and is known for its soft, white sand and excellent snorkeling. The water here is clear and shallow, making it safe for children and less confident swimmers. The reef just off the shore is teeming with marine life and is particularly known for its star coral and elkhorn coral formations. Arashi Beach is not only great for snorkeling, but also popular for relaxation and sunbathing.
5. De Palm Island
De Palm Island offers an all-inclusive snorkeling experience with amenities that cater to the entire family. This private island features various snorkeling spots that are perfect for encountering large schools of fish and vibrant coral reefs. The waters around De Palm Island are some of the clearest in Aruba, ensuring great visibility for spotting marine life. In addition to snorkeling, visitors can enjoy water slides, a buffet and other recreational activities, making it an excellent choice for a day trip.
6. Baby Beach
Located in Seroe Colorado at the southeastern end of the island, Baby Beach is renowned for its shallow, calm waters that resemble a large swimming pool, making it an ideal spot for families and novice snorkelers. The bay is protected by a breakwater, providing a safe environment for snorkelers to explore the abundant underwater life without straying too far from shore. The outer reef offers more experienced snorkelers the chance to see a wider variety of fish and perhaps even some squid or octopus.
Why Snorkel in Aruba?
The best places to snorkel in Aruba offer more than just a chance to swim in beautiful waters. They provide a gateway to an underwater world filled with exotic marine life, captivating coral formations and intriguing historical sites. Whether you’re exploring the shallow, family-friendly waters of Baby Beach or the mysterious depths of the Antilla Shipwreck, snorkeling excursions in Aruba can upgrade any trip.
So, pack your snorkel gear and get ready to dive into the warm Caribbean waters of Aruba. With a variety of unique snorkeling excursions, Aruba promises an underwater adventure for everyone — from first-time snorkelers to seasoned divers — all set against the backdrop of one of the world’s most beautiful islands.
