Boca Catalina
Aruba

Overview

Boca Catalina is a stretch made up of 4 secluded, small beaches on Aruba’s northwest coast, just north of Malmok and a short drive from Palm Beach. It’s a favorite among locals and repeat visitors who come for its calm turquoise waters, soft white sand, and easy snorkeling straight from shore. The beach is more intimate than Aruba’s resort-lined stretches, which makes it feel like a true hidden gem.

What I enjoy most about Boca Catalina is its peaceful vibe. On weekdays, you might share the beach with only a handful of people, while at weekends families gather under the palapas and in the shallow water. It’s the kind of place where you spread out a towel, take a dip, and spot pelicans diving into the sea while snorkelers drift quietly offshore.

Best time to visit Boca Catalina

• Time of day: Early morning is calm, with better visibility for snorkeling. Afternoons bring more visitors, but sunsets are spectacular.
• Season: The dry season (January–August) offers the sunniest skies and best conditions. September–December can be windier with the occasional rain shower.
• Weekdays or weekend: Weekdays are quieter, weekends bring more local families.
• Weather-wise: Aruba is sunny year-round, but trade winds can sometimes make the water choppy in the afternoon.

Tips for visiting Boca Catalina

• Arrive early if you want one of the free shaded palapas.
• Bring your own snorkel gear — rentals are not available on site.
• Water shoes help with rocky patches near the shoreline.
• There are no restrooms or restaurants directly on the beach, so plan ahead.
• Combine Boca Catalina with nearby Arashi Beach or Tres Trapi for a half-day outing.
• Boca Catalina has 4 beaches separated by limestone cliffs — the northest one (see below) is tiny but always empty, perfect for couples.

What to bring to Boca Catalina

• Snorkel mask, fins, and underwater camera.
• Beach towel or portable chair.
• Plenty of water and light snacks.
• Reef-safe sunscreen.
• Water shoes for easier entry.
• Hat or umbrella if shade is taken.

The list of things to do at Boca Catalina revolves around peace and quiet. The vibe is laid-back and simple — perfect if you like to relax without the noise of beach bars and jet skis.

Relax on a quiet beach

The main draw of Boca Catalina is its quiet atmosphere. Spread your towel under a palapa, listen to the waves, and enjoy the soft white sand without resort crowds. It’s especially peaceful on weekdays, making it a favorite spot for couples looking for privacy.

Swim in calm, clear waters

The cove is shallow with gentle entry, which makes it safe for a refreshing dip. Families often bring kids here to splash in the calm water while parents keep an eye from the shade. Boca Catalina Beach is one of the best spots on Aruba’s west coast if you want a safe, relaxed swim.

Have a beach picnic

Since there are no restaurants directly on the sand, many locals bring snacks or pack a picnic at Boca Catalina. A cooler with cold drinks and sandwiches makes the day much more enjoyable, especially if you plan to stay through the afternoon.

Watch sunsets over the Caribbean

Boca Catalina faces west, which means it has a front-row seat for some of the best sunset views in Aruba. Boats often anchor offshore around golden hour, adding to the scenery. I’ve stayed after most visitors left, and the beach felt almost private as the sky turned pink and orange.

Join a boat or catamaran stop

Several catamaran tours include Boca Catalina as a snorkeling or swim stop. Even if you arrive by land, it’s fun to watch the sailboats pull in and see the festive atmosphere from the water.

Visit Tres Trapi for sea turtles

Just a two-minute walk north along the rocky shoreline, Tres Trapi is a tiny cove where you have a good chance of spotting sea turtles. Many visitors combine the two beaches in one outing: swim and relax at Boca Catalina, then slip into the water at Tres Trapi for the thrill of seeing turtles up close.

Boca Catalina is often ranked among the best snorkeling beaches in Aruba because you can step straight from the sand into calm, clear water. The cove is shallow near shore and gradually deepens over patches of reef, which makes it easy for beginners while still rewarding for more experienced snorkelers.

Where to snorkel: The best snorkeling spots at Boca Catalina

The prime area starts just offshore, where the sandy bottom gives way to rocky outcrops. Swim about 30–50 meters out and you’ll find healthy coral heads and schools of reef fish.

To the right side of the cove (north toward Tres Trapi), the rocks attract the most marine life. If you’re confident, you can snorkel farther along the coastline toward Arashi, though currents get stronger.

What you will see underwater

Marine life at Boca Catalina is vibrant and easy to spot thanks to the clear water. Common sightings include:

• Parrotfish, sergeant majors, and blue tangs grazing the reef.
• Butterflyfish, angelfish, and damselfish in the shallows.
• Squid, sea stars, and urchins hiding among the rocks.
• Occasional sea turtles passing through, especially if you drift toward Tres Trapi.

Drift snorkeling to Tres Trapi for turtles

If you’re a confident swimmer, one of the best experiences here is to drift snorkel north from Boca Catalina to Tres Trapi. The swim is short — about 150 meters along the rocky shoreline — and currents usually carry you in that direction.

Tres Trapi is famous for its sea turtle sightings, and chances are good you’ll encounter one gliding gracefully in the shallows. I’ve done this swim a few times, and spotting turtles in such clear water was always the highlight.

Best time to snorkel at Boca Catalina Aruba

The best snorkeling conditions are in the morning, when the water is calmest and visibility is highest. Afternoons can bring stronger winds and more boats anchoring in the bay, which stirs up the sand. Weekdays are less crowded, so you’ll have more space to explore.

Safety tips and snorkeling guide

• Enter the water slowly — some rocks and sea urchins are near the shore.
• Stay aware of catamarans and small boats that anchor offshore.
• Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the coral.
• Wear water shoes or fins for easier entry and exit.
• If you’re not a confident swimmer, use a snorkel vest — the water deepens beyond the first reef patches.

Snorkel gear rental at Boca Catalina

There are no rentals directly on the beach, so bring your own mask and fins. If you don’t have gear, nearby vendors in Palm Beach and Oranjestad rent full sets, and many boat tours provide equipment if you join a catamaran that stops at Boca Catalina.

My personal honest opinion

I’ve snorkeled all over Aruba, and Boca Catalina is still one of my favorites for a relaxed, no-fuss experience. The water feels calm, the fish come close, and there’s enough variety to keep you entertained for hours. It’s not as dramatic as the Antilla Shipwreck, but if you just want to slip in quietly and enjoy Aruba’s marine life up close, Boca Catalina is hard to beat.

Since the place itself is a natural, undeveloped beach, so there are no restaurants or bars at Boca Catalina. Luckily, you’re just a short drive from Palm Beach, where plenty of good options are available. The closest places to eat near Boca Catalina are the following:

Faro Blanco Restaurant

Set by the California Lighthouse, this Italian restaurant comes with sweeping views of Aruba’s north coast. It’s a romantic choice for dinner after a day at Boca Catalina, especially at sunset.

Arashi Beach Shack

Located a couple of minutes north at Arashi Beach, this casual beach bar serves cold drinks, snacks, and light bites. It’s a convenient stop if you don’t want to head into Palm Beach for food.

The restaurants of Palm Beach

Palm Beach is less than 10 minutes away and has every dining option imaginable — from fast-casual to fine dining. You’ll find beachfront bars, steakhouses, and international restaurants that make it easy to pair your beach visit with a night out.

There are no hotels built directly on Boca Catalina — it’s a protected, natural beach. The closest options are small villas, condos, and vacation rentals in the Malmok and Arashi area, just a few minutes’ walk or drive away. If you prefer a full-service hotel, Palm Beach with its high-rises is less than 10 minutes down the road.

Aruba Sunset Beach Studios

Located in Malmok, these self-catering studios are perfect if you want to be close to Boca Catalina while having a kitchen and private outdoor space. It’s a quiet, friendly property with easy access to the beach.

Ocean Z Boutique Hotel

A chic, adults-oriented boutique hotel just south of Boca Catalina. Modern design, a pool, and personalized service make it a strong choice for couples looking for something different from the big resorts.

Catalina Cove Condos

Close to both Boca Catalina and Tres Trapi, these condos are a solid mid-range option. They offer home-like comfort with full kitchens and easy access to one of Aruba’s best snorkeling spots.

Casa Del Viento

A charming vacation home in Malmok, Casa Del Viento combines comfort with convenience. It’s well-suited for families or groups looking for a private base near Boca Catalina, with quick access to both beaches and the lighthouse area.

Where to stay near Boca Catalina by travel type:

• Families: Aruba Sunset Beach Studios, Casa Del Viento, or larger Malmok villas with private pools.
• Couples & adults-only luxury: Ocean Z Boutique Hotel.
• Modern style & infinity pool: Ocean Z (stylish suites, intimate atmosphere).
• Mid-range condo comfort: Catalina Cove Condos or Malmok apartments.
• Quiet boutique charm: Casa Del Viento or smaller Malmok guesthouses.
• Budget travelers: Airbnb studios or apartments in Noord, a short drive away.

My personal take: Staying near Boca Catalina is ideal if you want to wake up close to the island’s best snorkeling without the bustle of Palm Beach. I like the Malmok villas for their relaxed vibe and proximity to both Boca Catalina and Arashi, while Palm Beach hotels work better if you want nightlife and dining within walking distance.

Boca Catalina is located in the Malmok area on Aruba’s northwest coast, just past Palm Beach and before Arashi. It’s easy to reach by car, taxi, or even local bus, and the drive is scenic along the island’s western shoreline.

From the cruise port (Port of Oranjestad)

Cruise passengers dock at the Port of Oranjestad, about a 20-minute drive south of Boca Catalina. Taxis are readily available outside the terminal, and some tours also include Boca Catalina as a snorkeling stop.

How far is Boca Catalina from the cruise port?

• Distance: ~11 km (7 miles)
• Driving time: 20–25 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $20–25 USD one way

From the airport (Queen Beatrix International Airport)

Aruba’s airport is on the south side of the island, so you’ll need to cross Oranjestad and head up the hotel zone toward Malmok.

How far is Boca Catalina from the airport?

• Distance: ~13 km (8 miles)
• Driving time: 25–30 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $25–30 USD one way

From Palm and Eagle Beach

Boca Catalina is just a quick drive north from the resort strip. If you’re staying at Palm or Eagle Beach, you can even bike there in under 20 minutes.

How far is Boca Catalina from Palm and Eagle Beach?

• Distance: ~4 km (2.5 miles)
• Driving time: 7–10 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $10–12 USD one way

From Oranjestad

If you’re based downtown, head north along L.G. Smith Boulevard, passing Palm Beach, until you reach Malmok.

How far is Boca Catalina from Oranjestad?

• Distance: ~9 km (5.5 miles)
• Driving time: 15–20 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $18–20 USD one way

From San Nicolás

Coming from Aruba’s southeast? The drive takes you along the southern and western coastline before looping north toward Malmok.

How far is Boca Catalina from San Nicolás?

• Distance: ~30 km (18.5 miles)
• Driving time: 40–45 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $35–40 USD one way

Taxi to Boca Catalina Aruba

You will have no problem finding a taxi at any major location to go to Boca Catalina. It's usually not a problem to find a taxi at Boca Catalina either when you want to return.

Approximate taxi fare to Boca Catalina

• From Palm/Eagle Beach to Boca Catalina: $10–12 USD
• From Oranjestad (downtown) to Boca Catalina: $18–20 USD
• From the cruise port to Boca Catalina: $20–25 USD
• From the airport to Boca Catalina: $25–30 USD
• From San Nicolás to Boca Catalina: $35–40 USD

Public transport to Boca Catalina

Aruba’s local bus (Arubus) runs from Oranjestad to Malmok. The closest stop is near Malmok Beach, about a 10-minute walk to Boca Catalina. Buses run every 30–40 minutes during the day, but service is limited in the evening. Always check the most up-to-date Arubus routes and bus schedules.

Driving to Boca Catalina by rental car

A rental car is the most flexible way to visit, especially if you plan to combine Boca Catalina with Arashi Beach, Tres Trapi, or the California Lighthouse. The drive is straightforward along the hotel zone, with signs pointing toward Malmok.

Parking

There’s a small sandy parking area right across from Boca Catalina, usually with space available. It’s free of charge, though it can fill up on weekends when local families come.

What makes Boca Catalina special for me is the mix of peaceful atmosphere and marine life — I’ve spent entire mornings here just floating in the water, watching fish dart around the reef, and feeling like I had the Caribbean to myself. It’s small, calm, and ideal for swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on the sand.

I’d recommend Boca Catalina for couples who want a quiet spot, families with kids who can enjoy the gentle water, and anyone who loves to snorkel without going far offshore. If you’re looking for nightlife and restaurants right on the sand, this isn’t the beach for you. But if you want to slow down and soak up Aruba’s natural beauty, Boca Catalina is as good as it gets.