Bachelor's Beach
Aruba

Overview

Bachelor’s Beach Aruba is a small, windswept stretch of sand on the island’s southeast coast near San Nicolas. It’s not the kind of beach you see in glossy brochures — the surf is rough, the sand often collects seaweed and garbage, and there are no facilities or shade. What makes it stand out is the feeling of total seclusion. Most days you’ll find yourself completely alone here, which is rare on an island that’s usually buzzing with tourists.

Because there are no facilities, shade, or nearby cafés, Bachelor’s Beach isn’t a spot I’d recommend for a day of relaxing or swimming. For me, it’s more of a curiosity — a place to stop, take a look, maybe snap a photo of the wild coastline, and then move on to a better swimming beach nearby.

Confusion about the location of Bachelor’s Beach

One thing to clarify right at the beginning: Bachelor’s Beach is marked in two different places on Google Maps. You’ll see one pin just past San Nicolas on the southeast coast (the beach I’m reviewing here) and another one farther east, past Baby Beach near the pet cemetery. The beach is also marked as Captain Beach.

To make it even more confusing, many websites mix it up with Boca Grandi, and some even call Boca Grandi “Bachelor’s Beach.” To be clear: this guide is about the Bachelor’s Beach past San Nicolas, not Boca Grandi. I cover Boca Grandi separately.

Best time to visit Bachelor’s Beach

• Time of day: Early morning for sunrise light, or late afternoon when the sun isn’t as harsh.
• Season: Dry season (January–August) has steadier weather; in rainy months the beach can look even rougher.
• Weekdays or weekend: It’s always quiet, but weekends may bring the odd local passing by.
• Weather-wise: Go when winds are lighter if you want a slightly calmer experience.

Tips for visiting Bachelor’s Beach

• Don’t plan on swimming — the water is too dangerous.
• Combine it with a coastal drive or a visit to Baby Beach nearby.
• Expect no facilities, so come prepared.
• Use it as a photography or picnic stop, not a full beach day.
• Privacy is the norm here — People can sunbathe nude without anyone around.
• Always bring water and snacks — there’s nothing for sale here.
• Wear sturdy sandals or shoes for the short walk from the Red Anchor.
• Arrange your taxi pickup in advance if you’re not driving yourself.
• Combine your visit with Baby Beach or Boca Grandi to make the trip worthwhile.

What to bring to Bachelor’s Beach

• A bottle of water and maybe a snack.
• Sunscreen and a hat — there’s no shade.
• A towel or mat if you want to sit on the sand.
• Sturdy sandals or shoes if walking from the Red Anchor.
• A camera for sunrise or dramatic coastal shots.

Truth is, there are not many things to do at Bachelor’s Beach. It isn’t the kind of place where you’ll spend a full day swimming or renting beach chairs — it’s rough, raw, and very quiet. Still, there are a few things that make it worth a short stop if you’re exploring Aruba’s southeast coast:

Enjoy the seclusion

Bachelor’s Beach is one of the most secluded beaches in Aruba, which makes it perfect for photography. If you’re after complete privacy, this is one of the few beaches on the island where you’ll likely have the sand (and the garbage) to yourself. It’s the opposite of Palm Beach crowds.

Beachcombing for washed-up finds

Because of the east coast currents, the Bachelor's Beach often collects unusual debris — from driftwood and fishing floats to the occasional odd item washed ashore. It’s not the cleanest beach on the island, but if you like poking around for interesting “treasures,” you might enjoy a slow beachcombing walk here.

Photography & coastal views

The rugged coastline, crashing waves, and emptiness make for moody, dramatic photos. Sunrise and late afternoon light are especially good.

Sunbathing without an audience

Since the place is so deserted, Bachelor's Beach can be a great place to get rid off of your tan lines without anyone watching. Keep in mind, though, that nude sunbathing is prohibited in Aruba.

Kite surfing (if you have your own gear)

The strong winds and open stretch make it possible to kite surf here, but only if you bring your own equipment. For lessons or rentals, you’ll need to head a little further east to Boca Grandi, which has a kite surf school and is the island’s go-to spot for the sport.

Snorkeling at Bachelor’s Beach Aruba is not recommended. The east coast surf is too rough, the currents are unpredictable, and the water often looks murky from debris and seaweed washing in. Unlike the calm reefs you find on the west and south coasts, there is no sheltered area here to safely enter the water.

At Bachelor’s Beach you will not see the colorful reef and tropical fish that Aruba is known for, because the strong surf prevents snorkeling. If you want to see marine life, you are better off at Baby Beach, Mangel Halto, or Arashi.

Safety tips and snorkeling guide

• Do not attempt to snorkel at Bachelor’s Beach — the currents are dangerous.
• Always choose a calm, protected bay for snorkeling in Aruba.
• If you are in San Nicolas, head to Baby Beach instead.
• Keep in mind that the east coast beaches are scenic but not for water activities.

There are absolutely no bars or restaurants at Bachelor’s Beach itself — not even a place to buy a bottle of water. If you’re hungry, you’ll need to drive. The closest options are around Baby Beach and Seroe Colorado, about 10–15 minutes away:

• Rum Reef – A casual bar and grill overlooking Baby Beach, known for burgers, seafood, and cold drinks with a great view.
• Big Mama Grill – Also at Baby Beach, serving hearty portions of ribs, chicken, and seafood in a laid-back, open-air setting.
• Kamini’s Kitchen – In nearby Lago Heights, this family-run spot is a local favorite for home-style Indian-Caribbean food.

If you’re planning to stop at Bachelor’s Beach, bring snacks and water with you. Otherwise, save your appetite for Baby Beach or San Nicolas.

There are very few accommodations near Bachelor’s Beach. The beach itself is completely undeveloped — no hotels, no villas, nothing but sand and wind. If you want to stay close, you’ll need to base yourself in San Nicolas or near Baby Beach.

Secrets Baby Beach

The closest full resort is Secrets Baby Beach, a new adults-only all-inclusive sitting right by Baby Beach. It’s about a 10–15 minute drive from Bachelor’s Beach. Staying here means you get the full resort experience — pools, restaurants, and a calm swimming bay — while still being on Aruba’s quiet southeast end.

Jermal Vacation Home

For a more local stay, there’s Jermal Vacation Home in San Nicolas. It’s a simple vacation rental near Bachelor's Beach, nothing fancy, but it works if you want to explore the beaches on this side of the island without the long daily drive from the resort strip.

Where to stay near Bachelor’s Beach by travel type

• Couples & adults-only luxury: Secrets Baby Beach
• Budget travelers & long stays: Jermal Vacation Home or other rentals in San Nicolas
• Families: Better off staying in Savaneta or Oranjestad for more options and amenities

Personally, I wouldn’t stay near Bachelor’s Beach itself — there’s just nothing around. If you want quiet and don’t mind the lack of nightlife, Secrets Baby Beach is the only solid choice. Otherwise, I’d stay closer to the action on the west coast and make Bachelor’s a side trip.

Bachelor’s Beach is located on Aruba’s southeast coast, just past San Nicolas. The beach sits beyond the large Red Anchor monument, down a short dirt road. Because of its remote location, the easiest way to get here is by rental car. Taxis will usually take you only as far as the Red Anchor, and there is no public transport directly to the beach.

From the cruise port (Port of Oranjestad)

Cruise passengers can reach Bachelor’s Beach by taxi or rental car. Tours rarely include this beach, so renting a car gives you more flexibility. Keep in mind that most taxis will only drop you at the Red Anchor, not down the dirt road to the sand.

How far is Bachelor’s Beach from the cruise port?

• Distance: ~35 km (22 miles)
• Driving time: 35–40 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $35–40 USD one way (to the Red Anchor)

From the airport (Queen Beatrix International Airport, AUA)

From the airport, head south along Route 1 through Savaneta and continue east into San Nicolas. Once you reach the Red Anchor monument, take the dirt track toward the coast to find Bachelor’s Beach.

How far is Bachelor’s Beach from the airport?

• Distance: ~27 km (17 miles)
• Driving time: 30–35 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $30–35 USD one way (to the Red Anchor)

From Palm and Eagle Beach

If you’re staying in Aruba’s main resort area, follow L.G. Smith Boulevard south past the airport and through Savaneta until you reach San Nicolas. Continue to the Red Anchor, then turn off toward the beach.

How far is Bachelor’s Beach from Palm & Eagle Beach?

• Distance: ~40 km (25 miles)
• Driving time: 40–45 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $35–40 USD one way (to the Red Anchor)

From Oranjestad

Driving from the capital is straightforward: head south through Savaneta to San Nicolas, then follow signs to the Red Anchor and turn onto the dirt road leading to the beach.

How far is Bachelor’s Beach from Oranjestad?

• Distance: ~35 km (22 miles)
• Driving time: 35–40 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $35–40 USD one way (to the Red Anchor)

From San Nicolás

From San Nicolas, follow the coastal road to the Red Anchor. The beach is just beyond, down an unpaved track. It’s the shortest and easiest route if you’re based in Aruba’s southern town.

How far is Bachelor’s Beach from San Nicolás?

• Distance: ~4 km (2.5 miles)
• Driving time: 5–10 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $10–15 USD one way (to the Red Anchor)

Taxi to Bachelor’s Beach

Taxis will take you to the Red Anchor, but not down the dirt road to Bachelor's Beach. Always arrange your return trip in advance — there are no taxis waiting here.

Approximate taxi fare to Bachelor’s Beach

• From Port of Oranjestad (cruise terminal) to Bachelor's Beach: $35–40
• From Queen Beatrix Airport to Bachelor's Beach: $30–35
• From Palm and Eagle Beach to Bachelor's Beach: $35–40
• From Oranjestad to Bachelor's Beach: $35–40
• From San Nicolas to Bachelor's Beach: $10–15

Public transport to Bachelor’s Beach

There is no bus service to Bachelor’s Beach. The closest you can get by bus is San Nicolas, but from there you’ll still need a taxi or a long walk. Always check the most up-to-date Arubus routes and bus schedules.

Driving to Bachelor’s Beach by rental car

A rental car is the best way to reach Bachelor’s Beach. Any car can make it to the Red Anchor, and even the dirt road is manageable in a small sedan if you drive slowly. No 4x4 required.

Parking

Parking at Bachelor’s Beach is informal — just pull off on the dirt near the sand. There are no marked spaces, no attendants, and no security. Don’t leave valuables in your car.

Aruba's Bachelor’s Beach isn’t the place for swimming, snorkeling, or comfort — it’s rough, remote, and very littered. Even if you want complete solitude and don’t mind the wind, there are better secluded beaches in Aruba such as Andicuri Beach or Boca Prins. For me, it’s a beach to see once and move on, not a spot to stick around.