Aruba, a Caribbean island known for its stunning beaches and clear waters, offers some excellent snorkeling opportunities. Find out where to find the best snorkeling spots in Aruba along with which tours offer you the best snorkeling offshore. We’ll cover all the information you need to know to really enjoy snorkeling in Aruba!

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Best Places to Snorkel in Aruba

While Aruba is not known for its underwater life the same way the other two ABC Islands, Bonaire and Curacao, are, it still offers some amazing marine life. Best of all, some of its best snorkeling locations in Aruba are right off the coast, allowing you to reach them without a tour or boat. This makes it possible to go snorkeling without a tour in Aruba. Add these spots to your list!

Tres Trapi

Tres Trapi is located on the northwest coast of Aruba, close to the California Lighthouse. It is a lesser-known but beautiful snorkeling spot, known for its unique rock formations, underwater landscapes, and the ability to swim with sea turtles. The site is accessible via a few rocky stairs and just a short swim from the shore. Sea turtles are often found about 50 yards out.

Snorkelers at Tres Trapi may encounter various marine species, including colorful reef fish, moray eels, and crustaceans – as well as the famous Tres Trapi turtles. Make sure to check the sea grass beds for turtles and under the rocky cliffs and formations. They provide interesting nooks and crannies for animals to hide in. The rocky substrate also hosts an assortment of corals and sponges, contributing to a diverse underwater ecosystem.

Pro Tip: While Tres Trapi offers rewarding snorkeling experiences, it’s advisable to wear water shoes and exercise caution when navigating the rocky terrain. The site is most suitable for those with some snorkeling experience and comfort with open water swimming. When in doubt, take a floatation device with you!

Mangel Halto Beach

Mangel Halto is located in the southeastern part of Aruba, near the town of Savaneta. This beach offers a unique combination of mangrove trees and seagrass beds. The shallow, protected waters make Mangel Halto an excellent spot for snorkeling in Aruba, with a rich diversity of marine life and coral formations.

Snorkelers may encounter various species of tropical fish, such as angelfish, parrotfish, and sergeant majors. The mangroves also contribute to the ecosystem, providing a nursery for juvenile marine life and an excellent hiding spot for sea turtles.

Baby Beach

Baby Beach is situated at Seroe Colorado, on the southeastern tip of Aruba. This beach gets its name from its calm and shallow waters. This makes it ideal for families and snorkelers of all skill levels. The crescent-shaped lagoon is protected by a large coral barrier, which helps create a calm environment with minimal waves.

Snorkelers at Baby Beach can encounter a diverse array of marine life, including colorful fish, sea anemones, and possibly even sea turtles. The sandy bottom and clear waters also provide excellent visibility for observing the underwater world.

For those looking to see even more. Head to the far left of Baby Beach to the natural pool. This area does have a stronger current, so be careful, but it is a bit enclosed and shallower. Here you can find more sea life, including potentially octopus, crab, and squid!

Pro Tip: Snorkeling gear is available for rental at Baby Beach for $16/hour.

Boca Catalina

Boca Catalina is situated on the northwest coast, near Malmok Beach. It is a popular snorkeling site in Aruba with calm waters and a coral reef close to the shore. The accessibility of the reef makes it suitable for snorkelers of all levels, including beginners.

Snorkeling in Boca Catalina offers opportunities to spot a variety of marine life, including colorful coral formations, schools of tropical fish, and the occasional sighting of sea turtles. The clear waters make it easy to appreciate the underwater scenery.

Arashi Beach

Arashi Beach is situated on the northwest coast of Aruba and is known for its powdery white sand and calm waters. The snorkeling area is close to the shore which makes it convenient for those who want to explore the underwater world without venturing too far.

Snorkelers at Arashi Beach can encounter a range of marine life, including butterflyfish, damselfish, and sergeant majors. The coral formations are amazing, and the visibility is usually excellent. This can make for a very memorable snorkeling experience.

Malmok Beach

Malmok Beach is also located on the northwest coast, just south of Tres Trapi Beach. It’s not known for the beach itself, but the snorkeling at Malmok Beach is some of the best! When you enter the water, swim North, following the coastline to swim into tiny outlets full of deep, clear water that are teeming with fish.

As the water entry is a bit rocky, you’ll want to take water shoes but then get ready for amazing visibility and schools of fish. You also get the opportunity to see sea turtles in Aruba! Keep your eyes wide open, and don’t forget your GoPro!

Best Snorkeling Tours in Aruba

One of the best ways to see the underwater wonders of the island is through the amazing snorkeling tours in Aruba. Whether you don’t have your own equipment or transportation, or you simply want the guidance and safety of snorkeling with a tour, you’ve got plenty of options!

Choose from guided excursions to pristine locations like Baby Beach and Mangel Halto or adventurous pirate-themed sails. Aruba offers a range of snorkeling experiences which ensure an unforgettable experience for all! Let’s take a look at my five favorite Aruba snorkeling tours.

Catamaran Sail with Snorkeling aboard the Arusun

Duration: 2.5 hours

Set out on a catamaran adventure in Aruba aboard the 65-foot ‘Arusun.’ Enjoy the spacious deck, choosing between sunny or shaded areas, and savor snacks and drinks from the open bar. Explore prime snorkeling sites around Aruba, like the Antilla Shipwreck and Catalina Bay, with complimentary equipment. With friendly crew hospitality, an open bar, and provided snacks, this catamaran sail offers a relaxing and great-value experience.

Champagne Breakfast and Lunch Cruise in Aruba with Snorkeling

Duration: 4 hours

Experience a luxurious Champagne Breakfast and Lunch Cruise aboard a custom catamaran. Enjoy free-flowing Champagne with a delicious breakfast featuring croissants and Danishes. Marvel at the island views. Listen to Caribbean music. Snorkel at three locations to discover native marine life. Try the ‘third lung’ underwater breathing system and indulge in a lunch of paella, chicken salad, cheese, fruit, and more Champagne. Relax in paradise as you sip mimosas, soak in sea breezes, and make the most of this perfect day on the water.

Jolly Pirates Morning Sail and Snorkel Cruise in Aruba

Duration: 4 hours

Embark on a thrilling four-hour Aruba Pirate Cruise aboard an 85-foot teak schooner. Visit three snorkeling locations, including a World War II shipwreck, for an immersive marine experience with coral and tropical fish. The cruise includes a barbecue lunch, an open bar, and access to snorkeling gear. Enjoy additional fun with a rope swing on the boat. Truly immerse yourself in the best the island has to offer with this snorkeling cruise in Aruba.

Jolly Pirates Afternoon Sail and Snorkel Cruise in Aruba

Duration: 3 hours

Try an exciting Snorkel Cruise in Aruba aboard a teak pirate schooner. Explore three reefs with opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and trying out the rope swing. Enjoy the tropical scenery from the teak sun deck. Sip drinks from the open bar. Make the most of the included snorkel equipment. This afternoon activity provides a leisurely experience, leaving the morning free to enjoy the rest of the island.

Guided Mangel Halto and Baby Beach Snorkeling Tour in Aruba

Duration: 5 hours

Take off on a Guided Mangel Halto and Baby Beach Snorkeling Tour, visiting two of the island’s best-known snorkeling beaches. Choose to relax on land and enjoy the scenery or explore the underwater world with provided snorkel gear. The tour includes round-trip transportation from your hotel or cruise port, allowing for a hassle-free experience. Wade directly off shore to discover the marine world, with instruction and snorkel equipment provided for your convenience.

Preparing to Snorkel in Aruba

Before heading to these amazing snorkeling spots around Aruba, there’s a few things you need to know to be prepared and stay safe.

Equipment Needed to Snorkel in Aruba

With so many accessible spots to snorkel right off the beaches of Aruba, you just need a few key pieces of equipment and you’ll be well on your way to a fun, underwater adventure. Choose to bring this equipment from home, or you can buy or rent it in Aruba, or if you prefer, just join a tour where gear is included.

• Snorkeling Gear: To snorkel on your own in Aruba, you’ll need to have your own snorkeling equipment. This includes a mask that is snug but comfortable with a tight seal around your eyes, a snorkel, that is easy to breathe through and has a comfortable mouthpiece, and fins to help you move efficiently through the water. Choose from the traditional mask or a full face snorkel mask.

• Water shoes: If you plan to explore rocky areas like Tres Trapi, consider wearing water shoes or aqua socks to protect your feet from sharp rocks and coral.

• Underwater Camera: Bring an underwater camera, like a GoPro, or a waterproof case for your phone to capture the beautiful marine life and underwater landscapes.

• Locking Bag: If your entire party is going into the water at once, you need to keep your valuables safe. You can either lock them in the car, if you drove, or use a locking bag to leave on the beach, like a Vaultz money bag or FlexSafe by AquaVault.

Snorkeling Safety

Preparing for a snorkeling excursion in Aruba involves a few essential steps to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here’s a short checklist of what you need to take into consideration for a safe trip.

• Weather and Water Conditions: Before heading out, check the weather forecast for the day. Avoid snorkeling during rough weather or high winds. Additionally, you’ll want to assess the water conditions, including tide and current information. Choose snorkeling sites that match your skill level and comfort in the water.

• Life Jacket: If you’re not a strong swimmer or if you’re snorkeling with children, consider using a floatation device or life jacket. It’s one of the best ways to ensure a safe day of snorkeling in Aruba.

• Buddy System: It’s always wise not to swim alone and snorkeling is no different. Snorkel with a buddy, and always keep an eye on each other. This adds an extra layer of safety in case of any unforeseen circumstances.

• Sun Protection: Use a reef-safe sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your skin from the strong Caribbean sun. Apply it before heading into the water. You may also want to wear a long-sleeved rash guard or UV-protective clothing to minimize sun exposure, especially on your back. Check out these affordable options for men and women.

• Hydration and Snacks: The sun in Aruba is brutal. Stay hydrated by bringing a reusable water bottle and pack some snacks to keep your energy levels up, especially if you plan to spend an extended period in the water. Snorkeling while tired can be quite dangerous as you have to be able to fight the current, should it become stronger!