What is special about Baby Beach in Aruba? (Is it worth visiting?)

If you’ve been planning a trip to Aruba, chances are you’ve stumbled across one of the most commonly asked questions: “What’s so special about Baby Beach?”

Closely followed by: “Is it really worth going all the way there?”

The answer isn’t as straightforward as it used to be. Once a quiet escape known only to locals and in-the-know travelers, Baby Beach has changed in recent years. Still, there are some genuinely special things about it, if you know what to expect.

Here’s some things to weigh as you decide if you want to go to Baby Beach in Aruba.

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What Makes Baby Beach Special

Baby Beach is different than the rest of Aruba, and that’s why it’s so well known and talked about. Here’s three core reasons it stands out and catches so many people’s attention.

1. Shallow Water, Great for Families

Baby Beach stands out for its crescent-shaped, shallow lagoon with water so calm and clear it feels like a natural swimming pool. It’s ideal for kids, nervous swimmers, and anyone who just wants to wade, float, or relax in turquoise bliss. The gentle slope means you can walk far out and still touch the bottom, making it one of the safest beaches on the island.

2. Safe Snorkeling Close to Shore

The outer edges of the lagoon are home to an amazing underwater world. Colorful fish dart around patches of coral, and it’s not uncommon to spot a sea turtle or two. The calm conditions make Baby Beach an excellent place for beginner snorkelers who want to explore without taking a boat or venturing into deeper waters.

Just remember to stay within the marked safe zones. The currents beyond the breakwaters can be strong and people have been known to drown or get swept off if they go too far out.

3. Picture-Perfect Views

If you’re after that classic Aruba photo—the one with white sand, calm teal water, and wide-open skies—Baby Beach delivers. It’s especially stunning in the morning light and during golden hour when there are less people around. Drone shots and panoramic views here are next-level.

Learn all about visiting Baby Beach.

Baby Beach Today

For many years, Baby Beach was a well-kept secret on Aruba’s far southeastern tip. Its remote location in San Nicolas meant fewer visitors, lots of space, and a truly amazing experience. But things have changed.

As Aruba has become more popular, so has Baby Beach. It now draws regular crowds, especially on weekends and when cruise ships are in port. What was once a peaceful local retreat can feel downright busy depending on when you go. Longtime visitors and some locals have voiced frustration that it no longer feels like the unspoiled paradise it once was.

The coming years may bring even more change with a new adults-only Secrets Resort being built right near Baby Beach. While it’s expected to boost tourism in the area, it will also increase foot traffic and congestion in what used to be one of the island’s quietest corners.

So, Is Baby Beach Worth Visiting?

It depends.

If you’re hoping for a peaceful, hidden beach with few people and low costs, Baby Beach may not be what you’re looking for anymore. It’s far from the hotel zones, and chair/shade rentals here often cost more than at other beaches. To avoid being overcharged, it’s highly recommended to rent ahead through Coconut Rentals or Travel Light Aruba.

But if you don’t mind a bit of a drive and are looking for a family-friendly, swimmable beach with a scenic setting and some of the calmest waters in Aruba, Baby Beach still has a lot to offer. Just go early, skip the weekends if possible, and set your expectations accordingly.