Druif Beach
Aruba

Overview

For a while, I got into the habit of stopping at Druif Beach with a coffee before my day started, and it was the most relaxing way to ease into things. The sand is soft, the water calm, and there’s this sense that time doesn’t move as fast here.

With just a few low-rise resorts along the shore, it never felt crowded — mostly hotel guests going for a swim or walk. What I loved most was the simplicity: just me, my coffee, the sea, and the quiet rhythm of the waves.

Important: There are two Druif Beaches in Aruba!

Druif Beach in Aruba can be a little confusing, because there are actually two different beaches with the same name.

The Druif Beach that most visitors mean is the one just outside Oranjestad, close to Eagle and Manchebo Beach. This version is a long, pristine stretch of soft white sand with calm water, lined by a few low-rise resorts. It’s an easy-to-reach beach close to Oranjestad, with enough amenities nearby for a comfortable day by the sea.

But there’s also another Druif Beach on the northeast coast of Aruba, inside the rugged part of the island. This second Druif is wild and untamed, with strong waves, rocky shoreline, and no facilities at all. It’s more of a scenic stop than a swimming spot, and not a place to spend a beach day.

Because Google Maps and Tripadvisor often mix photos and reviews of the two, many travelers don’t realize the difference. In this guide, I’ll be focusing on the main Druif Beach near Oranjestad, the calm and accessible one where most people stay and swim.

Best time to visit Druif Beach

• Time of day: Morning for calm water and fewer people, late afternoon for softer light and sunsets.
• Season: Year-round swimming is possible; winter (December–April) has slightly cooler breezes and fewer chances of rain.
• Weekdays vs weekends: Quieter on weekdays, while weekends bring more locals and resort guests to the volleyball court.
• Weather-wise: Trade winds keep it comfortable even on hot days, but bring extra shade in the dry season (June–September).

Tips for visiting Druif Beach

• There are two Druif Beaches in Aruba - Visit the one near Oranjestad, the other one is insignificant.
• Walk the coastline toward Eagle Beach for more dining and activity options.
• Watch for pelicans diving just offshore — it’s one of the small highlights.
• Keep in mind there’s not much nightlife or beach bar action right here.
• If you prefer peace and quiet, this is your spot.

What to bring to Druif Beach

• Sunscreen and hat — shade is limited outside of hotel palapas.
• Water and snacks — the only beach bar opens after 11 AM.
• Snorkel mask — not a top snorkeling beach, but fun for a quick swim.
• Camera or phone — sunsets are especially photogenic here.

Druif Beach isn’t the place for jet skis or loud beach clubs — and that’s part of its charm. The vibe here is slower, quieter, and perfect if you’re looking for laid-back activities in Aruba or just simple ways to enjoy the Caribbean without the crowds.

Water sports and light activities

Most of the low-rise resorts along the sand include access to non-motorized water sports, making it easy to stay active without leaving the beach. You can grab a paddleboard, kayak, or small sailing dinghy right from the shoreline. The water is usually calm in the mornings, which makes Druif Beach a good spot for beginners to try something new.

Beach walks and photography

One of the best things to do at Druif Beach is to set out on a long beach walk. Druif connects seamlessly to Manchebo and Eagle Beach, giving you miles of uninterrupted coastline. I love wandering down with my camera (see video above), catching the changing colors of the sky and the pelicans diving for fish.

Volleyball and casual games

If you prefer a little activity on the sand, Druif Beach has a volleyball court where guests and locals often gather for a casual match on weekends. The wide beach is also great for frisbee, beach soccer, or other family games. It’s low-key fun, but it adds to the social vibe and makes the beach more than just a place to sunbathe.

Spot the Shoco burrowing owl

For something unique, head to the southern end of the beach where a Shoco owl burrow hides in the sand dunes. The Shoco owl is Aruba’s national bird, and spotting one feels like a special moment. These small burrowing owls are absolutely adorable.

Snorkeling isn’t the main attraction at Druif Beach, but the calm water makes it an easy spot if you just want to dip in with a mask. Don’t expect the dramatic reefs of Mangel Halto or Tres Trapi — Druif is more about a quick swim than a true snorkeling adventure. Still, for beginners or kids, it’s a safe place to get comfortable in the water.

Where to snorkel: the best snorkeling spots at Druif Beach

The clearest water is usually found toward the northern end near Manchebo Beach and the southern stretch closer to the breakwater rocks. That’s where you’ll see slightly more fish, though the variety is limited compared to other Aruba snorkeling beaches.

What you will see underwater

Expect to find a few small tropical fish, the occasional parrotfish or sergeant major, and sometimes pelicans diving above. The sandy bottom and gentle slope mean less coral, but visibility is often good enough for a fun swim.

Best time to snorkel at Druif Beach

• Morning hours are best, when the sea is calm and visibility is highest.
• Avoid windy afternoons, when the surf can stir up sand and reduce clarity.
• December to April generally offers calmer seas, while summer trade winds can make conditions choppier.

Safety tips and snorkeling guide

• Stay aware of occasional boat traffic from nearby resorts.
• Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life.
• Stick close to shore if you’re a beginner.

Snorkel gear rental at Druif Beach

Many of the resorts along Druif Beach include snorkel gear as part of their guest amenities. If you’re not staying here, you can easily rent gear from beach shops at Eagle Beach or Oranjestad and bring it with you.

My personal honest opinion

Honestly, Druif Beach is more of a swim-with-a-mask spot than a real snorkeling destination. If you’re serious about snorkeling in Aruba, I’d point you toward Mangel Halto, Tres Trapi, or Arashi Beach instead.

Druif Beach doesn’t have a lively boardwalk lined with restaurants like Palm or Eagle Beach, but there are still a handful of casual dining spots and beach bars within walking distance. Most are simple and low-key, which fits the relaxed atmosphere of the area.

The Kitchen Aruba Local Food

A cozy place to try authentic Aruban dishes like stewed beef, fried fish, and local sides. It’s an easy walk from the beach and a good stop if you want something hearty and homemade.

ChupaDede Snacks Restaurant

This little snack bar is popular with locals for its quick, affordable meals. It’s nothing fancy, but perfect if you want a casual bite after a swim or beach walk.

Wendy’s

Sometimes you just want something familiar — and the Wendy’s near Druif Beach is exactly that. A quick, no-frills option when you’re craving a burger and fries.

Domino’s Pizza Boulevard

Another easy takeaway option near Druif, ideal if you’d rather grab a pizza and eat it on the sand while watching the sunset.

Bunker Bar

This is a classic Aruba beach bar right by the water, perfect for a cold beer or rum punch. It has a friendly, laid-back vibe and is especially nice at sunset.

Ritz Snack

A small, affordable snack stand serving local fast food favorites. It’s not gourmet dining, but it’s quick, convenient, and keeps you fueled for more beach time.

Staying near Druif Beach puts you right on the sand while still being just a few minutes from Oranjestad. Most of the accommodations here are low-rise resorts or boutique stays, which keep the atmosphere relaxed compared to the high-rise strip further north.

Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusive

This beachfront resort stretches along Druif Beach and is a favorite for travelers who want all-inclusive convenience. Every room faces the ocean, so you can literally step from your patio onto the sand. Tamarijn also includes access to its sister resort Divi, which means more dining options and pools without leaving the area.

Divi Dutch Village

A more low-key alternative, Divi Dutch Village offers apartment-style suites with kitchens, making it a good fit for families or longer stays. Guests also get access to nearby Divi and Tamarijn facilities, so you can combine self-catering flexibility with resort perks.

House of Mosaic Aruba Boutique Hotel & Art Gallery

Just a short drive from Druif Beach, this boutique spot is both a hotel and an art gallery. Rooms are colorful and individually decorated, and the vibe is more personal than the larger resorts. It’s a great choice if you like staying somewhere with character and a local touch.

Bon Bini Suites

Set a little inland from Druif Beach, Bon Bini Suites offers spacious apartments with kitchens and a quiet, residential atmosphere. It’s not directly on the sand, but the value is good compared to the beachfront resorts, and it’s still only a few minutes’ walk or drive to Druif.

Where to stay near Druif Beach by travel type

• Families: Divi Dutch Village – roomy suites with kitchens and family-friendly pools
• Couples & adults-only luxury: Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusive – beachfront rooms with full resort facilities
• Art & boutique lovers: House of Mosaic Aruba – unique design and local atmosphere
• Budget travelers: Bon Bini Suites – affordable self-catering apartments near the beach

If you want to wake up right on the sand, Tamarijn is hard to beat. For more independence, I’d go with Divi Dutch Village or Bon Bini Suites when looking for hotels at Druif Beach.

Druif Beach is located just south of Eagle Beach and only a short drive from Oranjestad. Its central position makes it one of the easiest beaches to reach on the island, whether you’re coming from the airport, the cruise port, or other popular areas.

From the cruise port (Port of Oranjestad)

Cruise passengers can reach Druif Beach quickly by taxi or rental car. The drive follows L.G. Smith Boulevard north toward Eagle Beach, with Druif just before it.

How far is Druif Beach from the cruise port?

• Distance: ~4 km (2.5 miles)
• Driving time: 8–10 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $10–15 USD one way

From the airport (Queen Beatrix International Airport, AUA)

From the airport, head northwest through Oranjestad and follow the main coastal road toward Eagle Beach. Druif Beach is just past the low-rise hotel area.

How far is Druif Beach from the airport?

• Distance: ~7 km (4.5 miles)
• Driving time: 15 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $20 USD one way

From Palm Beach

If you’re staying at one of the high-rise resorts at Palm Beach, getting to Druif is easy. Just follow the main road south past Eagle Beach until you reach Druif.

How far is Druif Beach from Palm Beach?

• Distance: ~6 km (3.7 miles)
• Driving time: 12–15 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $15–20 USD one way

From Eagle Beach

Druif Beach is directly connected to Eagle Beach, so you can simply walk along the shoreline or drive down the coastal road.

How far is Druif Beach from Eagle Beach?

• Distance: ~1 km (0.6 miles)
• Walking time: 10–12 minutes along the sand
• Driving time: 2–3 minutes

From Oranjestad

Coming from downtown Oranjestad, just follow L.G. Smith Boulevard north toward Eagle Beach. Druif is one of the first beaches you’ll pass.

How far is Druif Beach from Oranjestad?

• Distance: ~2.5 km (1.5 miles)
• Driving time: 5–7 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $10 USD one way

From San Nicolás

From the far southeastern town of San Nicolás, head northwest along Route 1 through Savaneta and Oranjestad, then continue toward Eagle Beach to reach Druif.

How far is Druif Beach from San Nicolás?

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

Taxi to Druif Beach

Taxis are easy to find at the airport, cruise port, and hotel areas. Returning from Druif is simple too, since the resorts here can call a taxi for you and they also wait around.

Approximate taxi fare to Druif Beach

• From Palm Beach to Druif Beach: $15–20 USD
• From Oranjestad to Druif Beach: $10 USD
• From San Nicolás to Druif Beach: $35–40 USD

Public transport to Druif Beach

Local buses run frequently along the main road between Oranjestad and the hotel areas. You can hop off near the low-rise resorts and walk a short distance to Druif Beach. Always check the most up-to-date Arubus routes and bus schedules.

Driving to Druif Beach by rental car

Driving is straightforward: just follow the main coastal road north from Oranjestad or south from Palm Beach. The roads are well marked, and the drive is short and easy.

Parking

There’s free parking near the resorts that line Druif Beach. Spaces can fill up quickly during peak hours, but usually you’ll find a spot nearby.

Druif Beach Aruba is one of the easiest beaches to reach from Oranjestad, and that’s part of why many people like it. A long strip of white sand with calm water, a few resorts, and a volleyball net in the middle. There a few activities around but really, Druif is about keeping things simple: sun, sand, and space to relax.