Eagle Beach
Aruba

One of the world's best beaches

Eagle Beach is Aruba’s widest, softest ribbon of sand, a low-rise stretch just north of Oranjestad where the water stays calm and the vibe feels unhurried. It’s home to the island’s iconic fofoti trees (those wind-sculpted, side-leaning beauties you’ve seen on postcards) and it’s consistently ranked among the world’s best beaches in recent years. During sea turtle nesting season, you’ll notice protective barriers and signs — part of a long-running local effort to keep this place wild and special.

I come to Eagle when I want easy swimming, space to spread out, and those golden-hour photos under the fofoti. Palm Beach — the high-rise strip with piers and nightlife — is five minutes up the road, but the mood here is decidedly quieter and more spread out.

Eagle Beach vs. Palm Beach

Both beaches are stunning, but they offer very different experiences. Here’s a quick side-by-side to help you decide which vibe fits your trip:

Best time to visit Eagle Beach

• Time of day: Early morning for empty-beach walks and soft light; late afternoon for shade creeping across the sand and the prettiest sunset tones.
• Season: Aruba is a reliably sunny, warm destination year-round. The island’s brief rainy period runs roughly October–January, while trade winds are most noticeable May–August (great for cooling, can add light chop).
• Weekdays or weekend: Weekdays feel roomier. On weekends/holidays, locals love Eagle too—arrive earlier if you want front-row sand.
• Weather-wise: Aruba sits well south of the main hurricane belt — direct hits are rare — so you’re mostly planning around wind and brief showers rather than storms.

Personal note: on windy days I set up closer to the dune line for shelter; on calm days I park near the fofoti trees for easy photo breaks.

Tips for visiting Eagle Beach

• Respect the turtles: If you see a roped-off nest, give it space; avoid lights and flash at night; let hatchlings crawl to the sea.
• Shade & seating: Natural shade is limited; palapas and chair/umbrella rentals are offered by nearby resorts/vendors along the low-rise strip. (A reader told me their pair of chairs + umbrella ran around $70 in peak summer — prices vary, so bring a card and some cash.)
• Amenities: You’ll find restrooms, snacks, and parking pull-offs near major beach access points; I often grab a cold drink from vendors by the central access.
• Photo tip: The fofoti lineup looks best at golden hour; please don’t climb or hang items on the trees — there’s an ATA-supported rule protecting them.
• Common-sense safety: Don’t leave valuables unattended; use a dry bag if you’re swimming with your phone.

What to bring to Eagle Beach

• Reef-safe sunscreen and a wide-brim hat (shade is limited).
• Cash + card for chairs, snacks, and taxis.
• Quick-dry towel or sarong, and a phone/waterproof pouch.
• Simple mask if you like to float and peek underwater (true reef snorkeling is better up in Malmok/Boca Catalina).

Eagle Beach Aruba is not just about lying in the sun — it’s one of the best beaches in the Caribbean for relaxing activities, nature encounters, and photo opportunities. Known for its powdery white sand and calm water, Eagle Beach has a slower rhythm than Palm Beach, but there’s still plenty to keep you entertained.

Swim and relax on Aruba’s widest beach

The number-one activity on Eagle Beach is simply to swim and unwind. With gentle surf and shallow entry, it’s one of the safest beaches in Aruba for families with kids. The wide shoreline means there’s always space for a towel, and if you prefer comfort, you can rent Eagle Beach chairs and umbrellas from vendors or nearby low-rise hotels.

Take photos at the iconic fofoti trees

The leaning fofoti trees on Eagle Beach are among Aruba’s most famous landmarks. They make for the ultimate Caribbean photo backdrop, especially during sunrise and sunset on Eagle Beach. Bring your camera or phone lanyard — this is one of those Aruba spots you’ll definitely want framed back home.

Watch sea turtle nesting (seasonal highlight)

From March through November, Eagle Beach becomes a sea turtle nesting site. Leatherbacks, greens, and hawksbills all dig nests here, protected by roped-off areas. If you’re lucky, you may witness a sea turtle hatching on Eagle Beach, one of the most magical wildlife encounters in Aruba. Always follow the rules: no flash, no touching, and give the turtles space.

Enjoy quiet beach walks and the low-rise vibe

Because Eagle Beach sits in Aruba’s low-rise hotel zone, it feels more spacious and relaxed compared to Palm Beach. Long, open stretches of sand are perfect for morning beach walks or romantic evening strolls. This is also where I go when I want to escape the high-rise bustle but still stay close to restaurants and boutique resorts.

Catch a sunset on Eagle Beach

Few things beat a Caribbean sunset on Eagle Beach. Facing west, the horizon lights up in shades of orange, pink, and purple almost every night. Many visitors call Eagle Beach one of the best sunset beaches in Aruba, and I have to agree.

Try beach yoga at Manchebo Beach

Right next door, Manchebo Beach hosts daily beach yoga classes that welcome both resort guests and outside visitors. Starting the morning with a yoga flow on the sand, surrounded by sea breeze and waves, is one of the most rejuvenating activities near Eagle Beach.

Unwind with a beach massage under the palapas

Some of the low-rise resorts around Eagle Beach offer outdoor spa cabanas where you can enjoy a beach massage. It’s pricier than a hotel spa, but lying under a palapa while the ocean breeze cools you down makes it an experience worth the splurge.

Play a game of beach volleyball

Looking for something active? Join a beach volleyball game on Eagle Beach in the late afternoon. Locals and travelers often set up matches, and it’s a great way to socialize. Even if you just watch from your towel, it adds a lively touch to the otherwise tranquil vibe.

Join a Sip and Paint Aruba class

For a creative twist, sign up for a Sip and Paint Aruba workshop near Eagle Beach. These casual art classes mix painting with wine or cocktails, usually focusing on Caribbean-inspired scenes like fofoti trees or Aruba sunsets. I joined with friends, and while none of us were artists, it ended up being one of our most memorable evenings.

Eagle Beach is a fantastic place to swim and float, but it’s not Aruba’s top snorkeling beach. The water here is usually calm and clear, yet there are no coral reefs directly offshore. If you’re serious about snorkeling, you’ll want to head just a few minutes north to spots like Malmok, Boca Catalina, Tres Trapi, or Arashi. That said, Eagle Beach is still a good starting point — you can easily book a snorkel cruise or guided tour that picks you up nearby.

Where to snorkel: the best snorkeling spots at Eagle Beach

Directly off Eagle Beach, you’ll mostly find sandy bottom and seagrass patches. Some small fish cruise through, but there’s no reef structure to explore. For real variety, check these spots close by:

• Malmok Beach – rocky shallows, easy entry, great for beginners.
• Boca Catalina – calm cove, popular for spotting colorful reef fish.
• Tres Trapi – famous for snorkeling with sea turtles in shallow water.
• Arashi Beach – clear water, more coral formations, slightly deeper snorkeling.

What you will see underwater

At Eagle Beach itself, you might see small tropical fish and the occasional ray in the sandy areas. Head north to the reef zones and you can spot parrotfish, angelfish, damselfish, and butterflyfish. With luck, you may encounter sea turtles grazing on seagrass, especially at Boca Catalina and Tres Trapi.

Best time to snorkel at Eagle Beach

• Morning hours are usually best — the water is calmer, the sun is high enough for visibility, and crowds haven’t arrived yet.
• Trade wind season (May–August) can stir up some chop; stick to protected coves on windier days.
• Year-round access — Aruba’s consistently warm climate makes snorkeling possible in every season.

Safety tips and snorkeling guide

• Enter and exit the water where it’s sandy; avoid rocky patches.
• Stay aware of boat traffic if you snorkel outside the marked swim areas.
• Use a snorkel flag or join a tour if you plan to explore further from shore.
• Don’t touch coral or chase marine life.
• Keep hydrated — the Caribbean sun is intense even when you’re in the water.

Snorkel gear rental at Eagle Beach

You’ll find small vendors and hotel desks along Eagle Beach that rent out masks, snorkels, and fins, usually as part of a chair-and-umbrella package. For better quality gear, I recommend stopping by a local dive shop or booking a snorkeling excursion — most tours include all the equipment you need, plus guidance on the best reef spots.

My personal honest opinion

I love Eagle Beach for swimming, relaxing, and photos, but if you want great snorkeling, go north. I usually swim here just for fun, then make the short drive to Malmok or Boca Catalina for a proper snorkel session. It’s the best of both worlds: spend your day stretched out on Eagle’s wide sand, then finish with a colorful reef snorkel nearby.

You don’t have to go far to find great restaurants and beach bars at Eagle Beach. The dining scene here is a mix of casual toes-in-the-sand spots, upscale romantic dinners, and even a few hidden local gems. Whether you’re after a quick coffee, a food truck plate, or a full seafood feast, there’s something for every mood.

Coco Loco Beach Bar

Right on the sand at Eagle Beach, Coco Loco is the go-to for tropical cocktails and casual beach bites. I often stop here for a cold Balashi beer or a fruity piña colada in between swims — it’s the ultimate “no shoes, no problem” kind of place.

Clover Coffee + Marketplace

If you’re looking for a coffee shop near Eagle Beach, Clover Coffee hits the spot. They do strong espresso, healthy bowls, and quick bites that are perfect before a morning swim or after yoga at Manchebo.

Marea

Marea brings a modern, stylish vibe to the Eagle Beach dining scene. The menu is Mediterranean-inspired with lots of fresh seafood and shareable plates. I came here once for dinner with friends, and we lingered for hours over wine and mezze.

Chalet Suisse

Just across from the beach, Chalet Suisse is a classic fine dining restaurant that’s been a favorite in Aruba for decades. Known for its steaks, seafood, and old-school European service, it’s a good pick when you want something more polished than a beach bar.

Truck di Mama

For a taste of local street food, nothing beats a stop at Truck di Mama. This food truck serves hearty plates of Aruban comfort food — think grilled meats, fried plantains, and big portions for a small price. It’s a local institution, and eating here feels like joining in on a community tradition.

Así Es Mi Peru

Craving ceviche or lomo saltado? Así Es Mi Peru serves authentic Peruvian dishes just minutes from Eagle Beach. It’s bright, lively, and one of my favorite spots when I want a change from Caribbean flavors.

Terrazza Italiana

Terrazza Italiana has all the makings of a romantic evening: Italian classics, an outdoor terrace, and a view of the ocean. Their pasta portions are generous, and I recommend saving room for dessert — the tiramisu is excellent.

Eduardo’s Cabana

For a healthy breakfast or light lunch, Eduardo’s Cabana is a must. Their smoothie bowls and fresh juices are famous with both locals and visitors. It’s the perfect spot to recharge after a morning walk on Eagle Beach.

The Oasis

The Oasis offers a laid-back atmosphere with a varied menu — burgers, seafood, and plenty of cocktails. It’s one of those easygoing spots where you can sit for hours, nibbling and people-watching.

Passions on the Beach

For the ultimate romantic dinner, Passions on the Beach sets tables right in the sand at sunset. Dining here with your toes in the sand as the sky turns pink and purple is unforgettable. I recommend reserving in advance, especially if you want a front-row table.

One of the best things about staying at Eagle Beach is the low-rise hotel zone. Unlike Palm Beach with its tall towers, Eagle is lined with boutique resorts, condos, and villas that keep the atmosphere quieter and more relaxed. Most places are just steps from the sand, with kitchens or kitchenettes for longer stays, making it easy to feel at home while still enjoying resort perks.

JOIA Aruba by Iberostar

The newest addition to the area, JOIA Aruba by Iberostar brings a fresh, modern resort feel to Eagle Beach. It’s designed with clean lines, spacious rooms, and a mix of relaxation and entertainment — a good choice if you want something upscale but still low-rise.

MVC Eagle Beach Aruba

MVC Eagle Beach is a cozy, boutique-style hotel right across from the sand. With just a handful of rooms and a family-run feel, it’s popular with repeat visitors who want personal service and easy access to the beach without resort crowds.

Paradise Beach Villas

Paradise Beach Villas offers condo-style suites with kitchens, multiple pools, and a laid-back vibe. It’s a great fit for families or groups who want the flexibility to cook and the comfort of a resort setting.

Eagle Aruba Resort

Formerly Tropicana, the Eagle Aruba Resort is a larger complex with pools, a spa, and plenty of amenities. The spacious suites and family-friendly layout make it a good mid-range option if you want value close to Eagle Beach.

La Cabana Beach Resort & Casino

La Cabana is one of the bigger names on Eagle Beach, with a full-service casino, multiple restaurants, and a lively pool scene. If you like having nightlife and entertainment on-site, this resort offers more action than most properties in the low-rise zone.

Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort Aruba

Amsterdam Manor is one of my personal favorites. The Dutch colonial architecture gives it character, and the location directly across from the famous fofoti trees makes it extra photogenic. It has a mix of studios and suites, plus one of Eagle’s most romantic dining spots, Passions on the Beach.

Bubali Bliss Studios

For budget-conscious travelers or longer stays, Bubali Bliss Studios offers stylish self-catering apartments just a short walk from Eagle Beach. The kitchens, modern décor, and affordable pricing make it a smart pick if you want independence without sacrificing comfort.

Oasis Luxury Condominiums

If you’re looking for a luxury condo in Aruba, the Oasis development delivers. Spacious units with full kitchens, a sleek pool area, and a quiet setting attract couples and families who want an upscale home-away-from-home.

Where to stay near Eagle Beach by travel type

• Families: Paradise Beach Villas, Eagle Aruba Resort, La Cabana Beach Resort & Casino
• Couples & romantic stays: Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort Aruba, Oasis Luxury Condominiums
• Boutique charm: MVC Eagle Beach Aruba
• Modern & stylish: JOIA Aruba by Iberostar
• Budget travelers: Bubali Bliss Studios
• Larger resort amenities: La Cabana Beach Resort & Casino

Staying near Eagle Beach gives you the best of both worlds — the quiet, wide beach right in front, and all the restaurants, bars, and shops of Oranjestad and Palm Beach just minutes away. It’s my top pick when I want a relaxed base without being far from the action.

Eagle Beach sits along L.G. Smith Boulevard, between Oranjestad and Palm Beach. It’s one of the easiest beaches to reach in Aruba — just a quick ride by car, taxi, or bus from most major areas. Parking is available along the roadside, and the local Arubus routes stop right behind the beach.

From the cruise port (Port of Oranjestad)

The cruise terminal is only a few miles south of Eagle Beach. Taxis are lined up outside the port, and the main bus terminal is right across the street.

How far is Eagle Beach from the cruise port?

• Distance: ~4.7 km (2.9 miles)
• Driving time: 9–12 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $12–15 USD
• Bus: 10–15 minutes, about $2.50 USD

From the airport (Queen Beatrix International Airport)

Queen Beatrix International Airport is just outside Oranjestad, and Eagle Beach is an easy drive north.

How far is Eagle Beach from the airport?

• Distance: ~7.5 km (4.6 miles)
• Driving time: 15–20 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $20–25 USD
• Bus: 20–25 minutes, about $2.50 USD (transfer at the Oranjestad terminal)

From Palm Beach

Palm Beach is the next resort strip north of Eagle Beach, connected by the same main road.

How far is Eagle Beach from Palm Beach?

• Distance: ~3 km (1.8 miles)
• Driving time: 5–7 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $9–11 USD
• Bus: 5–10 minutes, about $2.50 USD

From Oranjestad

Downtown Oranjestad is just a short ride away.

How far is Eagle Beach from Oranjestad?

• Distance: ~4.5 km (2.8 miles)
• Driving time: 8–10 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $12–15 USD
• Bus: 10 minutes, about $2.50 USD

From San Nicolás

San Nicolás is on the southeast side of the island, much farther from Eagle Beach.

How far is Eagle Beach from San Nicolás?

• Distance: ~23 km (14 miles)
• Driving time: 30–35 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $40–45 USD
• Bus: About 45–55 minutes, with transfer in Oranjestad

Taxi to Eagle Beach

Taxis are easy to find at the airport, cruise port, hotels, and major attractions. Returning from Eagle Beach, you can usually flag a taxi along L.G. Smith Boulevard, but during peak times it helps to have your hotel or restaurant call one for you.

Approximate taxi fare to Eagle Beach

• From the cruise port to Eagle Beach: $12–15 USD
• From the airport to Eagle Beach: $20–25 USD
• From Palm Beach to Eagle Beach: $9–11 USD
• From Oranjestad to Eagle Beach: $12–15 USD
• From San Nicolás to Eagle Beach: $40–45 USD

Public transport to Eagle Beach

The Arubus L10, L10A, and L10B lines all run between Oranjestad and Palm Beach, stopping right at Eagle Beach. Buses leave about every 15 minutes during the day, making this the cheapest way to get around. Check the most up-to-date Arubus routes and bus schedules.

Driving to Eagle Beach by rental car

Driving is straightforward — follow L.G. Smith Boulevard, the main coastal road. Roads are well-signed, and traffic is light compared to many tourist islands. A rental car also gives you the freedom to explore other beaches nearby.

Parking

There’s free roadside parking directly behind Eagle Beach. On weekdays you’ll usually find a spot close to the sand; on weekends and holidays, arrive early to grab a space.

Eagle Beach is the island’s most iconic stretch of sand — wide, soft, and framed by its famous fofoti trees. It’s consistently ranked among the world’s best beaches, not just for its beauty but for its calm swimming, turtle nesting season, and laid-back low-rise vibe.

I recommend it to travelers who want space to breathe, families looking for safe water, couples chasing sunsets, and anyone who prefers a quieter scene than Palm Beach while still being just minutes away from restaurants, resorts, and nightlife.