Malmok Beach in Aruba: The Ultimate Guide

Located on the northwestern coast of Aruba, Malmok Beach provides a picturesque beach that is a less crowded alternative compared to some of the more popular beaches on the island.

What truly makes Malmok Beach a must-visit spot though? Its amazing snorkeling. The water is clear and deep following an old coral reef, and it is teeming with fish. If you’re considering a visit to Malmok Beach, take a look at all the details you’ll need to know for an awesome time!

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Location of Malmok Beach, Aruba

Malmok Beach is situated on the northwest coast of Aruba, north of Palm Beach and south of Tres Trapi. More specifically, it is located near the town of Noord. Take a look at Malmok, Aruba on the map to give you an idea of where you’ll find one of the best snorkeling beaches in Aruba.

How to Get to Malmok Beach

Getting to Malmok Beach is fast and straightforward, whether you choose to rent a car, opt for the convenience of a taxi, take the local bus, or join a guided tour. Let’s take a look at each option.

Rental Car

Renting a car is a convenient and popular option for exploring Aruba. It provides flexibility and the ability to visit multiple attractions during your stay. To get to Malmok Beach, you can pop it in your navigation and it will take you there directly. Or, you can just head northwest from Oranjestad, passing through Eagle Beach and Palm Beach until you reach Malmok Beach.

At Malmok Beach, you’ll find parking right next to the side of the road. Just pull in and park for free. Then make your way down to the beach.

Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Aruba at the airport, major hotels, and along the streets. They can easily be hired for a trip to Malmok Beach. Just inform the taxi driver that you want to go to Malmok Beach, and they will be able to tell you the cost before taking you there. Remember that taxi fares are fixed in Aruba, so there’s no need to negotiate. It’s an easy ride less than 10 minutes north of Eagle Beach and even less from Palm Beach.

Public Bus

Aruba’s public transportation system, Arubus, serves most of the main areas on the island and Malmok Beach is no exception. To get to Malmok Beach by bus, take bus L10 north from Oranjestad, Eagle Beach, or Palm Beach and hop off at the Malmok Arubus Stop. It is located right behind the beach before you arrive at Tres Trapi or the California Lighthouse. It’s a short (and affordable) ride from town.

Tours to Malmok Beach

Many tour operators in Aruba offer excursions that include visits to popular beaches, including Malmok Beach. Choose from snorkeling tours that stop in Malmok Beach, such as this private snorkeling tour or this shared adventure tour with an open bar.

Or, enjoy land-based tours that go to Malmok Beach, like this UTV adventure around Aruba or this segway tour to Malmok Beach. There are a lot of ways to explore the area!

Best Things to Do in Malmok Beach

Looking for the best things to do in Aruba? Malmok Beach is one of the best known snorkeling spots on the island. Since it is a bit rocky along the entry, it’s not an ideal location for beach goers or swimmers. This means you’re not likely to find a lot of people hanging out at the beach all day. It’s more of a stop during your day to explore the amazing snorkeling. That being said, you will find a few things to do here.

Snorkeling at Malmok Beach

Malmok Beach snorkeling is considered some of the best on the island. If you’re really into snorkeling, you’re sure to enjoy the massive coral skeleton that stretches along most of the coastline here.

Beware that entering the water is a bit rocky, so you’ll want to pack water shoes for navigating your way into the water. Once in the water, swim North (to the right) following the edge of the cliff. This is where you’ll be able to enter little inlets that have deep water and a ton of fish. The water is exceptionally clear, so you’ll be able to see a lot. Keep your eyes open for turtles!

Walking the Malmok Boardwalk

A newer addition to Aruba is the Malmok Boardwalk. This boardwalk runs more than just the length of Malmok Beach. It actually starts at the Fisherman’s Huts (Kite and Windsurfing) in the south and runs up to Boca Catalina Beach up north. This path runs parallel to the coastline with a paved and wooden path. Along the path, you’ll find some benches to sit down and rest and just take in the scenery.

While the Malmok Boardwalk is a great visit anytime of day, you will find it’s best for runs in the morning before the heat of the day or for watching the sunset in the evening. Some even say it’s one of the best places to watch the sunset in Aruba!

Other Helpful Information

Need more information for your visit to Aruba’s Malmok Beach? We’ve got you covered.

Amenities at Malmok Beach

Due to its small roadside nature, you will find very few amenities and no facilities at Malmok Beach. In fact, the only real “amenity” is a handful of permanent palapas you can use for free for shade. Other than that, you will need to bring everything you need for your time at Malmok. And yes, this also means there are no toilets available at Malmok Beach!

When to Go to Malmok Beach

Like many beaches in Aruba, you’ll find it is least crowded in the morning. This makes around 9am my favorite time to visit Malmok Beach. If you don’t mind a few more people, you can visit later in the day. Around 11am snorkeling tours will start hanging around just off the coast. Remember, the sun will be extremely strong and there is little shade available. As such, plan ahead and take sun protection!

Another option, is to wait until later in the day and arrive in time for sunset. It’s a great place to catch a quiet sunset along the Malmok Boardwalk path.

What to Pack for Malmok Beach

Due to its convenient location, you don’t need to pack much when you go to Malmok Beach. Just take the must-haves and return to your accommodations afterwards to drop off what you don’t need and pick up the other essentials for the day.

Here’s a basic list of what to take to Malmok Beach:

• Snorkel gear: Obviously if you want to snorkel, you’ll need your own snorkeling gear. You can not rent it at the beach. Choose from the full face snorkel mask or the more traditional snorkel masks.

• Water shoes: Getting into the water will be rocky, so keep your feet protected from the sharp rocks and coral as you work your way into the water.

• Reef-safe sunscreen: There is little shade in available on the beach or in the water. Pack reef-safe sunscreen to protect your skin and the delicate underwater ecosystem.

• Underwater camera: While certainly not a must have, a GoPro or similar camera will help you capture memories from your time at Malmok Beach.

• Rash guard: Another great way to protect your skin from the sun is wearing a rash guard. This is particularly true when snorkeling as your back is completely exposed to the sun. Choose from men’s or women’s and ensure you don’t spend your vacation sunburnt!

• Floats or life jackets: If anyone in your party is not a strong swimmer, make sure to take extra floating power! No need to take any risks.

• The one thing not to take… valuables. If you must take anything valuable, pack a locking Vaultz bag or FlexSafe by AquaVault to keep them locked up while you’re in the water.

Where to Stay near Malmok Beach

Located further north than the popular Eagle or Palm Beach hotel area, there are a few amazing hotels near Malmok Beach. The closest is just a four minute walk to Ocean Z Boutique Hotel up towards Tres Trapi Beach. Two other options within walking distance are  Tierra del Sol Resort & Golf and the Ritz-Carlton. Both are about a 25 minute walk.

While you may want to visit Malmok Beach, I would not ultimately choose your hotel based on this location. I’d take a look down in Palm Beach or Eagle Beach where you’re just a short drive, bus ride, or taxi ride away. However, if you do want to stay near Malmok Beach, check out the map below to find hotels nearby!