2026 Guide to Aruba's Best Beaches
Discover the best beaches in Aruba in 2026, from calm waters and soft sand to scenic spots for swimming, relaxing, snorkeling and more.
Beaches · Malmok
Boca Catalina
A calm, sheltered cove between Malmok and Arashi Beach, with snorkeling straight from the shore.
WaterCalm and shallowLightest wind in the morning
Best timeMorningBefore the tour boats arrive
FacilitiesNoneA few palapas for shade
ParkingClose bySteps down to the sand
About Boca Catalina
Boca Catalina, nestled on the northwest coast of Aruba, is a hidden gem for snorkelers and beach lovers. This intimate and secluded cove offers calm, crystal-clear waters and a pristine sandy beach, making it an ideal spot for swimming and snorkeling adventures. With its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, Boca Catalina is a haven for underwater explorers seeking an up-close encounter with tropical fish and colorful corals. The tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking natural beauty of Boca Catalina make it a must-visit destination for those seeking a peaceful and immersive beach experience in Aruba.
In the water
Snorkeling and swimming
The best snorkeling is along the rocky edges of the cove, not in the sandy middle. Walk in from the beach and follow the rocks on either side: a few meters out you are already over coral and boulders with tropical fish.
The water stays shallow for a long way, which makes Boca Catalina a good first snorkel for children and beginners. There is no lifeguard, so keep an eye on young swimmers and stay inside the cove.
Out in the bay you can see the masts of the Antilla, one of the largest shipwrecks in the Caribbean. It is too far to swim to from the beach. Several snorkel cruises stop at the wreck and at Boca Catalina on the same trip.
See it from the water
Boat tours that stop at Boca Catalina
These boat tours anchor at Boca Catalina, so you can swim or snorkel in the cove without driving.
Snorkel cruise
Aruba Snorkel & Sail Tour Including Open Bar
Flagship Aruba
★5(69 reviews)
from $89 per person✓ Free cancellation
Book now
Snorkel cruise
Catamaran Dolphin Snorkeling Adventure Cruise
Delphi Watersports
★4.7(4803 reviews)
from $65 per person✓ Free cancellation
Book now
Sunset cruise
Catamaran Dolphin Sunset Adventure Cruise
Delphi Watersports
★4.8(1814 reviews)
from $50 per person✓ Free cancellation
Book now
Snorkel cruise
Sailing & Snorkeling Cruise
Pelican Adventures
★4.7(5383 reviews)
from $70 per person✓ Free cancellation
Book now
Brunch cruise
Champagne Brunch & Aqua Safari
Pelican Adventures
★4.7(5383 reviews)
from $92 per person✓ Free cancellation
Book now
Before you go
Good to know
Come in the morning: less wind, clearest water
No toilets, showers or food: bring water and snacks
A few palapas, they fill up fast: bring an umbrella
Water shoes help on the rocky edges
No snorkel rental nearby: bring your own gear
Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the coral
Plan your visit
How to get to Boca Catalina
Getting there
By car: about 5 minutes north of the Palm Beach hotels, on the coastal road towards Arashi Beach and the California Lighthouse. Park along the road above the beach and take the few steps down to the sand.
By taxi: any taxi can drop you at the cove. Agree on a pick-up time, as there is no taxi stand.
By boat: several boat tours from Palm Beach anchor in the cove. See the tours that stop here.
LocationBoca Catalina, Malmok
FAQ
Frequently asked questions about Boca Catalina
Is Boca Catalina good for kids?
Yes. The water is calm and shallow for a long stretch, which makes it one of the easier snorkel spots for children. There is no lifeguard, so always keep an eye on them.
Is there parking at Boca Catalina?
Yes, there is parking along the road above the beach. A few steps lead down to the sand.
Are there toilets or a beach bar?
No. There are no facilities at all, so bring water, snacks and shade.
Can you snorkel to the Antilla wreck from Boca Catalina?
No. The wreck is too far to swim to safely. Several snorkel cruises stop at both the Antilla and Boca Catalina.
When is the best time to go?
In the morning, when the wind and current are lightest, the water is clearest and the tour boats have not arrived yet.
Nearby
More to see around Boca Catalina
8 min walk north
Tres Trapi
Three stone steps into clear water on the northwest coast, one of the best spots in Aruba to see sea turtles.
10 min walk north
Arashi Beach
A calm, shallow beach near the California Lighthouse, with palapas, a beach bar and snorkeling close to shore.
12 min walk south
Malmok Beach
A quiet, rocky shoreline north of Palm Beach, known for snorkeling and boats anchored offshore.
5 min drive south
Hadicurari Beach
Aruba’s windsurf and kitesurf spot at the north end of Palm Beach, next to the old fishermen’s huts.
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