Bushiri Beach
Aruba

Overview

When I first stopped at Bushiri Beach, it was almost empty — just a woman relaxing on the dock and a local fisherman casting from the rocks. The calmness makes it a nice spot if you want to step away from the busier beaches, yet it’s close enough to walk or drive over from downtown. Bushiri Beach doesn’t always get the spotlight, but that’s exactly why it feels like a small discovery.

Bushiri Beach also carries a bit of history — it was once home to Aruba’s very first all-inclusive resort, the Bushiri Beach Hotel, which has since been demolished, leaving the beach returned to a quieter, more natural state.

Best time to visit Bushiri Beach

• Time of day: Early morning for quiet walks, late afternoon for beautiful sunsets.
• Season: Dry season (December–April) brings sunshine and calmer seas.
• Weekdays vs weekends: Weekdays are usually very quiet; weekends may attract a few locals.
• Weather-wise: The beach is breezy most of the year; bring a light cover if you stay late.

Tips for visiting Bushiri Beach

• Bring water and snacks — there are no food stands or vendors on the beach.
• Shade is limited, so a beach umbrella or hat makes a big difference.
• Wear water shoes if you plan to swim near the rocky edges.
• Don’t expect facilities — this is more of a natural, untouched spot.
• The porta-potties were locked when I was there, so no toilets either.
• Combine it with a visit to nearby Eagle Beach or Oranjestad for a full day.
• The no-fly drone zone starts right here, so don't expect to fly over Bushiri Beach

What to bring to Bushiri Beach

• A beach towel or blanket for sitting on the sand.
• Sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat for protection.
• Snorkel mask if you want to explore near the rocks.
• Water shoes for comfort on the rocky entry points.
• Drinking water and maybe a picnic.
• Camera or phone for the sunset views.

Bushiri Beach Aruba is not a busy, resort-style stretch — it’s a quiet public beach near Oranjestad where the activities are simple but rewarding. Instead of water sports and bars, you’ll find a mix of relaxation, light snorkeling, and some of the best Aruba sunset views. Here are the top things to do at Bushiri Beach:

Spotting the Shoco owl

Bushiri Beach has a Shoco owl burrow in the sand. This rare, endangered burrowing owl is Aruba’s national bird. They are absolutely adorable.

Snorkel along the rocky jetty and shoreline

Bushiri Beach offers casual snorkeling right off its rocky shoreline. While it’s not as famous as Malmok or Boca Catalina, snorkeling at Bushiri Beach can be a peaceful alternative if you’re staying nearby and want to swim without crowds.

Watch the sunset

One of the highlights of Bushiri Beach is the unobstructed sunset view. With no tall hotels in the way, the horizon stays wide open, perfect for photography or just walking along the sand at dusk. Many people come here as an off-the-beaten-path Aruba spot to escape the crowds and catch golden hour in peace.

Relax and sunbathe in peace

Bushiri Beach is rarely crowded, which makes it ideal if you want a more secluded Aruba beach experience. If you’re searching for hidden beaches in Aruba, Bushiri is one of the easiest to reach while still feeling away from it all.

Watch the cruise ships arrive in the morning

Get a close-up view of the giant cruise ships sailing into Oranjestad harbor right next door. It’s one of the surprisingly fun and free things to do in Aruba — especially if you enjoy photography or just want a unique morning experience. Check the Port of Oranjestad cruise ship schedule to plan your visit.

Walk to nearby beaches

One of the best things about Bushiri is its central location on the west coast. From here, you can walk or drive to Druif Beach, Manchebo, or Eagle Beach in minutes. That way, you can start the day in solitude at Bushiri and then move on to livelier beaches with restaurants and beach bars if you want more action.

Shore snorkeling at Bushiri Beach can pleasantly surprise you if you time it right. Yes, the snorkeling isn’t as dramatic as at Boca Catalina or Mangel Halto, but for visitors staying near Oranjestad or looking for free, shore-accessible snorkeling in Aruba, Bushiri is worth considering.

Where to snorkel: The best snorkeling spots at Bushiri Beach

• Along the rocky jetty / rocky shoreline at low to mid tide, where the water is clearer and schools of small reef fish collect in crevices.
• Near the edges of the sandy stretch, especially where rock patches extend into the water—these often provide hiding spots for fish and small marine life.
• Calm shallow parts toward early morning (when winds are lighter and the sea is less disturbed).

What you will see underwater

• Small reef fish like damselfish, wrasses, maybe parrotfish depending on conditions.
• Juvenile fish, crabs, small invertebrates among the rocks and outcroppings.
• Sea stars or bottom-dwelling creatures if you look close, especially near the rocky bottom.
• Possibly rays or turtles farther out or in especially calm water, though that’s less certain at Bushiri compared to more famous sites.

Best time to snorkel at Bushiri Beach

• Morning hours: just after sunrise is often when water is calmest, visibility highest.
• Dry season (December through April) tends to bring better sea conditions — less wind, clearer water.
• Avoid windy afternoons when waves stir up the sea floor.

Safety tips and snorkeling guide

• Always check water conditions before you go in — look for calm water, low wave action.
• Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect both your skin and marine life.
• Wear water shoes: the rocks can be sharp or slippery.
• Snorkel with a buddy or let someone know where you are going.

Snorkel gear rental at Bushiri Beach

There are no rentals directly on Bushiri Beach but nearby stores or hotels may offer gear.

My personal honest opinion

Snorkeling at Bushiri Beach won’t blow you away like the more established reef beaches, but it hits a sweet spot: minimal crowds, decent marine life, and the chance to snorkel casually without making it a full day-trip.

Bushiri Beach doesn’t have a boardwalk of restaurants like Palm or Eagle Beach, but there are a few casual dining spots and snack bars within walking distance. You’ll find everything from local food to quick international bites.

The Kitchen Aruba Local Food

A small local eatery serving hearty Aruban dishes. Perfect if you want to try traditional Caribbean flavors close to the beach.

ChupaDede Snacks Restaurant

A simple, friendly spot where you can grab snacks and quick meals. Good for a casual stop after swimming or walking the shoreline.

Wendy’s

If you’re craving something familiar, there’s a Wendy’s right near Bushiri Beach, making it a quick, no-frills option.

Domino’s Pizza Boulevard

Another easy option for take-out near Bushiri, great if you want to grab a pizza and eat by the water.

Bunker Bar

A classic beachside bar near Bushiri Beach, known for cold drinks and a laid-back vibe. Great for sunset beers.

Ritz Snack

An affordable snack stand near Bushiri Beach with local fast food. Nothing fancy, but convenient if you just need something quick nearby.

Since the beach sits between Oranjestad and Eagle Beach, you’ll find plenty of hotels and resorts near Bushiri Beach. Whether you want an all-inclusive, a boutique stay, or a budget option, there’s something within minutes of the beach.

Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusive

One of the top all-inclusive resorts near Bushiri Beach, Tamarijn offers oceanfront rooms and direct beach access. You can walk along the shore toward Bushiri in under 10 minutes, making it perfect if you want meals and drinks included with your stay.

Divi Dutch Village

A family-friendly choice with condo-style units and resort perks. Divi Dutch Village combines space and comfort while keeping you close to Bushiri Beach and other west coast spots.

House of Mosaic Aruba Boutique Hotel & Art Gallery

A creative boutique hotel in Oranjestad, blending lodging with an art gallery. It’s not right on the sand, but Bushiri Beach is only a short drive away, giving you a more personal alternative to large resorts.

Bon Bini Suites

A modern apartment-style stay near Druif Beach and minutes from Bushiri. Bon Bini offers spacious, modern suites and a quieter atmosphere. Ideal if you prefer independence and privacy over resort crowds.

Where to stay near Bushiri Beach by travel type

• Families: Divi Dutch Village – Spacious condo-style units with resort amenities.
• Couples & luxury: Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusive – Oceanfront, all-inclusive stay.
• Boutique charm: House of Mosaic Aruba – Artistic, intimate atmosphere.
• Apartment living: Bon Bini Suites – Spacious, independent-style stay.

My personal take

If you want to walk to Bushiri Beach, Divi or Tamarijn are the easiest. For a unique vibe, the House of Mosaic is one of Oranjestad’s most creative stays, while Bon Bini Suites works well if you’re want large spaces, although I think it's quite overpriced.

Bushiri Beach is one of the easiest beaches to reach in Aruba since it’s located just north of downtown Oranjestad and close to Eagle Beach. You can get there by taxi, rental car, bus, or even a short walk depending on where you’re staying.

From the cruise port (Port of Oranjestad)

Cruise passengers can actually walk to Bushiri Beach in about 20–25 minutes along L.G. Smith Boulevard, though most people prefer a short taxi ride.

How far is Bushiri Beach from the cruise port?

• Distance: ~2.5 km (1.5 miles)
• Walking time: 20–25 minutes
• Driving time: 5 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $10–12 USD one way

From the airport (Queen Beatrix International Airport, AUA)

From the airport, head north on Route 1 through Oranjestad toward Eagle Beach. Bushiri Beach is just before the main resort strip.

How far is Bushiri Beach from the airport?

• Distance: ~7 km (4.3 miles)
• Driving time: 12–15 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $20–25 USD one way

From Palm and Eagle Beach

If you’re staying at one of the main resorts, you can actually walk down the beach or take a quick taxi.

How far is Bushiri Beach from Palm & Eagle Beach?

• Distance: ~2 km (1.2 miles)
• Driving time: 5 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $8–10 USD one way

From San Nicolás

From San Nicolás, drive northwest on Route 1 through Savaneta and past the airport toward Oranjestad. Once you pass downtown, Bushiri Beach is just a couple of minutes further north along L.G. Smith Boulevard.

How far is Bushiri Beach from San Nicolás?

• Distance: ~23 km (14 miles)
• Driving time: 30–35 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $40–45 USD one way

Taxi to Bushiri Beach

Taxis are widely available in Oranjestad, at the airport, and around Eagle Beach. Since Bushiri is centrally located, rides are short and affordable. You don’t need to pre-arrange a taxi for the return trip; you can usually find one easily nearby.

Approximate taxi fare to Bushiri Beach

• From cruise terminal to Bushiri Beach: $10–12 USD
• From airport to Bushiri Beach: $20–25 USD
• From Eagle Beach resorts to Bushiri Beach: $8–10 USD

Public transport to Bushiri Beach

Arubus, the island’s public bus system, runs along the main boulevard. Several buses traveling between Oranjestad and Eagle Beach / Palm Beach stop near Bushiri Beach. The fare is around $2.50 USD per ride. Always check the most up-to-date Arubus routes and bus schedules.

Driving to Bushiri Beach by rental car

Driving is simple: just follow L.G. Smith Boulevard north from Oranjestad. The beach is on the west coast, so you can’t miss it. Having a car also makes it easy to continue exploring other beaches in one trip.

Parking

There’s free parking at Bushiri Beach.

Bushiri Beach Aruba may not be the most famous stretch of sand on the island, but that’s exactly what makes it special. Just minutes from Oranjestad and Eagle Beach, it feels like a quiet, hidden gem where you can slow down, watch the cruise ships arrive in the morning, or catch an unobstructed sunset in the evening.