Snorkeling in Aruba
Snorkeling in Aruba is the perfect way to get up close and personal with Aruba’s underwater treasures. At Aruba Active Vacations, we rent quality snorkeling equipment (masks, snorkels, and fins) so you can head out on your own to explore. The beaches close to our schools are some of the best on the island for their variety of fish—including angelfish, snapper, parrotfish, and squirrelfish.
If you’re lucky, you might encounter a porcupinefish, moray eel, barracuda, squid, or even a sea turtle! As all-around water and nature lovers, we are all fond of the underwater world and have plenty of suggestions regarding where to snorkel. Just ask! Below you will find some of our favorite spots.
Malmok Beach Snorkeling
When you see the Baboo shipwreck from the Malmok road, a little bit further towards the north side of the island you will find a few shady palapas and a tiny beach. As long as the water is calm (then it’s safe), jump from the rocky ledge or enter the water from the beach and enjoy the peace of floating in the water while slowly snorkeling along the ledge. Just climb out whenever you’ve had your fill. You can also meander through the Baboo shipwreck, a hangout for plenty of fish and pelicans. There is always something interesting to discover!
Tres Trapi
Tres Trapi is located right after taking the left turn off the Malmok road towards the California Lighthouse. Tres Trapi, which means “Three Steps” in Papiamento, is a great entry point for snorkeling in Aruba. This beach of sorts is named for the steps naturally carved into the limestone ledge that characterizes much of Malmok’s shoreline. The steps lead down to a tiny patch of sand and crystal-clear water. This hidden gem will most likely become one of your favorite snorkeling spots!
Boca Catalina
At Boca Catalina, you can enter the water at the sandy beach or find a deep enough spot along the rocky ledge and jump into the water. Either snorkel along the ledge or swim out to the coral reef, and you’ll find plenty of fish and other underwater life. Be sure not to touch any of the corals, as this will damage the natural habitat of the fish and other sea life. If you swim to the right, there’s another small sandy beach where you can get out to rest a bit or just relax in the sun.
Mangel Halto Snorkeling
Not only is Mangel Halto great for chilling out on your beach chair while sipping an ice-cold drink from your cooler, but it’s also the perfect spot for snorkeling. Float in the shallow water among the mangroves and you’re sure to find some surprises. Good swimmers can also venture to the reef a bit further out, which promises beautiful corals and other reef inhabitants.
Friendly Reminder: Coral reefs are living organisms and serve as the natural habitat of fish and other sea creatures. Always be careful to never touch the coral with your body or fins in order to preserve the reef.
Interested in Snorkeling in Aruba?
If you never try, you’ll never know!