Blackstone Beach
Aruba

Overview

Blackstone Beach (or as locals call it Boca Indjeco) isn’t your typical Aruban postcard of soft white sand. Instead, it’s covered in dark volcanic stones and pebbles that create a dramatic contrast with the turquoise Caribbean Sea. I think these characteristics and its remoteness make Blackstone Beach one of the truly off-the-beaten-path Beaches of Aruba.

The waves crash hard against the rugged shoreline, shaping the stones and giving the beach its moody, untamed character. This is the only beach of its kind in Aruba, making it a true hidden gem for photography and nature lovers rather than a place to lounge or swim.

You’ll find Blackstone Beach on Aruba’s wild northeast coast, just past Andicuri Beach and on the edge of Arikok National Park. The area is remote, with dirt roads and rocky paths instead of paved parking lots. Getting here feels like stepping into a different side of Aruba — far removed from the resort strip at Palm and Eagle Beach. Most visitors combine a stop here with Andicuri or the nearby natural bridges.

Best time to visit Blackstone Beach

• Time of day: Early morning or late afternoon for the best light and cooler temperatures.
• Season: Year-round, though the dry season (January–September) makes access easier.
• Weekdays or weekend: Weekdays are quieter; weekends sometimes see local off-roaders.
• Weather-wise: Avoid visiting during very windy or stormy days—the surf gets rough and the stones can be slippery.

Tips for visiting Blackstone Beach

• Wear sturdy shoes — the stones and paths are uneven.
• Don’t plan on swimming — currents are strong and dangerous.
• Bring plenty of water and sun protection — there’s no shade or facilities.
• A 4×4 vehicle or ATV is the easiest way to reach the area.
• Combine with Andicuri Beach or Arikok trails for a fuller outing.

What to bring to Blackstone Beach

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Reusable water bottle
• Sunscreen and a hat
• Camera or drone for photography
• Small backpack for essentials

There are just a few things to do at Blackstone Beach; it isn’t the kind of place where you spend a full day sunbathing or swimming. Instead, it’s best enjoyed for its scenery, coastal walks, and nearby attractions.

Photography and nature walks

The black volcanic stones against the turquoise Caribbean Sea make this one of the most photogenic beaches in Aruba. Many visitors come just to capture the dramatic colors and textures. Walking along the shore, you’ll find plenty of angles for wide landscapes and close-up shots of the black stones shaped by the waves.

Exploring natural bridges and rock formations

Aruba's east coast attractions include natural bridges formed by centuries of wave erosion, and several are within walking or driving distance of Blackstone Beach. These include the Tripod Bridge and smaller arches near Andicuri Beach. They add variety to the visit and make the area more than just a quick photo stop.

Hiking in Arikok National Park

Being so close to Arikok National Park, Blackstone Beach pairs well with a hike through the park’s rugged terrain. Trails in the area lead to coastal cliffs, caves, and desert-like landscapes filled with cacti and divi-divi trees. For travelers who like mixing a bit of walking with scenic viewpoints, hiking near Blackstone Beach is one of the best spots to connect with Aruba’s wild side.

Off-road adventures

Because of its remote location and rocky paths, the beach is popular with ATV and 4×4 tours. Many local operators include Blackstone Beach as a stop on their off-road excursions. If you enjoy adventure driving or want to cover more ground along the east coast, this is one of the highlights on those routes.

Snorkeling at Blackstone Beach is not what it's known for. The rough waves and strong currents on Aruba’s northeast coast make it a challenging and sometimes unsafe spot for entering the water. Still, many travelers wonder if it’s possible, so here’s what to know.

There are no facilities or rental shops at Blackstone Beach. If you want snorkel equipment, you’ll need to rent it from shops in Oranjestad, Palm Beach, or directly from tour operators that include snorkeling stops on their itineraries.

If you want to snorkel near Blackstone Beach, the closest beach I would recommend is Mangel Halto Beach on the opposite side of Aruba.

The area is completely undeveloped, so you won’t find restaurants or beach bars at Blackstone Beach. Most visitors bring their own snacks and water, then head to nearby towns for a proper meal afterward. There is, however, one place to eat near Blackstone Beach.

Thirst-Aid Station (by the Natural Bridge)

The Thirst-Aid Station is a casual bar and snack stand with a restroom right by the collapsed Natural Bridge, just minutes from Blackstone Beach. It’s a convenient spot for a cold drink or quick bite before heading back toward town.

Since Blackstone Beach is on the remote northeast coast, there are no hotels directly on-site. If you are looking for hotels near Blackstone Beach, the nearest accommodations are in Ayo, Santa Lucia, and Paradera, or vacation rentals closer to Oranjestad.

I’ve stayed in Oranjestad when visiting Blackstone Beach — it’s about a 30–40 minute drive. It gave me more dining options while still being close enough for day trips.

Blackstone Beach lies on Aruba’s remote northeast coast, just past Andicuri Beach and at the edge of Arikok National Park. Reaching it requires some planning: the roads are unpaved, rocky, and best suited for 4×4 vehicles or ATVs.

From the cruise port (Port of Oranjestad)

Cruise passengers dock at the Port of Oranjestad, on the west coast of Aruba. From here, you can reach Blackstone Beach by taxi (sort of), rental car, or a guided off-road tour.

How far is Blackstone Beach from the cruise port?

• Distance: About 18 km (11 miles)
• Driving time: 30–40 minutes by car or 4×4
• Taxi fare: Around $35–45 USD one way

From the airport (Queen Beatrix International Airport)

The airport sits just south of Oranjestad. The fastest route is via Santa Cruz, cutting through the center of the island before reaching the rugged east coast.

How far is Blackstone Beach from the airport?

• Distance: About 15 km (9 miles)
• Driving time: 25–30 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $30–35 USD one way

From Palm and Eagle Beach

If you’re staying along the resort strip, expect to cross the island toward Santa Cruz, then continue east on dirt roads to reach the coast.

How far is Blackstone Beach from Palm and Eagle Beach?

• Distance: 22–25 km (14–16 miles)
• Driving time: 35–45 minutes depending on traffic and road conditions
• Taxi fare: Around $40–50 USD one way

From Oranjestad

Leaving from downtown Oranjestad, you’ll follow Route 1 to Santa Cruz, then head toward Andicuri Beach before taking the dirt track to Blackstone Beach.

How far is Blackstone Beach from Oranjestad?

• Distance: 18 km (11 miles)
• Driving time: 30–40 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $35–45 USD one way

From San Nicolás

San Nicolás is the closest town to Blackstone Beach, making it the best base if you want shorter drives.

How far is Blackstone Beach from San Nicolás?

• Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)
• Driving time: 20–25 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $30–35 USD one way

Taxi to Blackstone Beach

I don't think taxis will be eager to take you to Blackstone Beach as it is in an off-road location. You can go to the old Natural Bridge and hike from there. Don't forget to arrange return transportation as taxis won't wait around there.

Approximate taxi fares to Blackstone Beach (Natural Bridge)

• From Palm/Eagle Beach to Blackstone Beach: $40–50
• From Oranjestad (cruise port) to Blackstone Beach: $35–45
• From the airport to Blackstone Beach: $30–35
• From San Nicolás to Blackstone Beach: $35–40

Public transport to Blackstone Beach

There is no public bus service to the rugged northeast coast, including Blackstone Beach. The closest you could get by bus is Santa Cruz, but from there you’d still need a car, taxi, or ATV to reach the beach. Always check the most up-to-date Arubus routes and bus schedules.

Driving to Blackstone Beach by rental car

A rental car gives you flexibility, but note that the last stretch to the beach is on a rough dirt track. A 4×4 vehicle is strongly recommended, but I managed to reach it with a standard car.

Parking

There’s no formal parking lot at Blackstone Beach, but visitors usually leave vehicles along the dirt track near the shoreline. Parking is free.

Blackstone Beach Aruba is raw and rugged with no swimming. If your idea of a perfect beach day involves calm water and beach bars, this won’t be your spot.

I’d recommend Blackstone Beach to travelers who enjoy off-the-beaten-path adventures, dramatic landscapes, and nature photography. If you want to see a side of Aruba that most visitors miss, you will have a great time — especially if you pair it with nearby Andicuri Beach, the Natural Bridges, or a hike in Arikok National Park.