Rodger's Beach
Aruba

Overview

Rodger's Beach is a small, quiet stretch of sand tucked right next to Baby Beach in San Nicolas. While Baby Beach attracts most of the crowds, Rodgers feels like a hidden gem where you can slow down, swim in calm waters, and watch local fishing boats bobbing gently in the bay.

The backdrop includes both turquoise sea and the silhouette of the old oil refinery — a reminder of Aruba’s history — but the beach itself has a simple, authentic charm that keeps it on my must-visit list. I often come here when I want a peaceful day by the water without the bustle of Aruba’s resort strip.

Rodger’s Beach vs. Baby Beach

Since the two beaches sit right beside each other, most visitors wonder which one is better. Baby Beach is more famous — it has shallow, crystal-clear water in a protected lagoon, plus restaurants, rentals, and more facilities. It’s also busier, especially with families and cruise ship tours.

Rodger’s Beach, on the other hand, feels more authentic and low-key. It doesn’t have food shacks or rentals on the sand, but that’s what makes it special. The vibe is local, the water is calm enough for swimming, and you’ll often share the beach with fishermen’s boats instead of crowds. Personally, I like to spend the morning at Rodger’s for peace and quiet, then head over to Baby Beach when I want lunch or a livelier scene.

Best time to visit Rodger's Beach Aruba

• Time of day: Early mornings and late afternoons are the most peaceful, with golden light for photos.
• Season: The beach is pleasant year-round, but winter months (December–April) bring the best weather.
• Weekdays vs weekends: Weekdays are quieter; weekends draw more locals and families.
• Weather-wise: Trade winds can be stronger in the afternoons, so mornings are best for calm water.

Tips for visiting Rodger's Beach Aruba

• Bring your own chairs, umbrella, and cooler since there are no rentals.
• Pair your visit with Baby Beach — they’re only a few minutes apart.
• Parking is easy and free, right next to the sand.
• Great spot if you prefer a local vibe over a touristy one.
• Mosaic stairs at the end make a perfect photo stop.

What to bring to Rodger's Beach Aruba

• Reef-safe sunscreen
• Plenty of drinking water
• Beach chairs or a blanket
• Snorkel mask if you want to explore the shallow water
• Camera or phone for photos at the mosaic stairs

Honestly, the list of things to do at Rodger's Beach is a short one, but nobody comes here for the activities. The beach is not about big attractions, but about savoring moments. You will be surprised to have nearly the whole beach to yourself most of the times.

Swimming & sunbathing

The sea at Rodger's is gentle, especially early morning, so swimming is easy and relaxing. On the soft white sand you’ll find great spots to spread out a towel, read, nap, or just soak up the sun in peace.

Snorkeling in the rocky coves

The edges of Rodger's Beach toward the small rocky outcroppings offer good chances to see colorful fish. These rocky pockets have clearer water where marine life gathers. It won’t be a large reef like some other Aruba spots, but it’s very accessible and rewarding for casual snorkelers.

Pier walking

There’s a long pier near Rodger's Beach that’s a favourite among locals for walking, watching boats, and even jumping into the water when conditions are safe. There is a sign for no diving due to shallow water so be cautious.

Photography & golden hour moments

The mosaic stairs, anchored fishing boats, the pastel sunrise or golden‐hour light — it all makes Rodger's Beach a fantastic spot for photos. If you like photography, aim to arrive just after sunrise or in the late afternoon when the light is soft.

Picnic & shade under trees

Bring your own snacks, drinks, maybe a full picnic. There are some shady areas under trees where you can set up a cooler or blanket.

Day trips & beach hopping

If you have more time, combine Rodger's Beach with nearby spots (especially Baby Beach) in the same day. Explore San Nicolas town (murals, local shops), or drive to other beaches to compare. It can make your Aruba beach experience richer, letting you see both hidden gems and popular destinations side by side.

Snorkeling at Rodger's Beach Aruba is not the island’s headline attraction, but if you know where to go, you can still find some enjoyable underwater life. The water is generally calm and clear, making it easy for beginners to explore without battling waves or strong currents.

Where to snorkel: the best snorkeling spots at Rodger's Beach

The key to snorkeling here is to avoid the sandy middle of the bay, where the water is mostly empty and stirred up. Instead, hug the rocky cliffs on the far side of the beach, swimming toward the old oil refinery and continuing in the direction of Nanki Beach. Along this stretch, the rocky seabed creates shelter for fish and small corals, and you’ll have a better chance of spotting marine life.

What you will see underwater

When I snorkeled near the cliffs, I came across schools of small tropical fish darting in and out of the rocks, as well as some larger parrotfish closer to Nanki Beach. Don’t expect a massive reef like Mangel Halto or Boca Catalina, but the variety here still makes it worthwhile if you already have your mask with you.

Best time to snorkel at Rodger's Beach

• Morning hours: Clearer water and calmer seas.
• Weekdays: Fewer people stirring up sand near the shore.
• Dry season (Dec–Apr): Best visibility, less wind.

Safety tips and snorkeling guide

• Stay close to the cliffs but watch for shallow rocks.
• Don’t snorkel alone — always bring a buddy.
• Wear reef-safe sunscreen to protect the water.
• Enter and exit from sandy areas, then swim out toward the rocks.

Snorkel gear rental at Rodger's Beach

There aren’t any rental shops right on Rodger's Beach, but you can find gear for rent nearby at JADS Dive Center toward Baby Beach. You can also rent full-face masks, which are a popular option.

My personal honest opinion

I wouldn’t list Rodger's Beach as one of Aruba’s top snorkeling destinations, but it can be a pleasant bonus if you’re already here. If snorkeling is the main goal of your day, I’d still suggest making time for Mangel Halto or Catalina. Rodger's is better appreciated as a quiet swimming and relaxing beach.

Rodger’s Beach doesn’t have restaurants right on the sand, but you’re only a short walk from the dining spots at Baby Beach. These are the places most visitors head to for food and drinks, and if you’re willing to drive into San Nicolás, you’ll find a few more casual options there. Don’t expect fine dining here — the vibe is laid-back and simple.

Big Mama Grill

This open-air shack is a Baby Beach classic, and it’s also your go-to when spending the day at Rodger’s Beach. Expect grilled ribs, seafood plates, burgers, and cold drinks. It’s exactly what a beach bar should be: unfussy, generous portions, and lots of flavor.

Rum Reef Bar & Grill

Just above Baby Beach, Rum Reef has a pool, a deck with sweeping views, and one of the best sunset settings in San Nicolás. It’s pricier than the beach shacks below, but if you want a scenic cocktail or a sit-down lunch with a view, this is the spot.

Lago Colony Beach Club

A longtime local favorite, the Lago Colony Beach Club has a more relaxed, low-key vibe. It serves comfort food, cold drinks, and draws a mix of locals and visitors who prefer something quieter than the main beach bars.

Local restaurants in San Nicolás

If you’re up for a short drive into San Nicolás, you’ll find small bars, Caribbean cafés, and casual family-run restaurants. It’s worth heading into town if you’re looking for variety or a sit-down meal beyond beachside fare.

There aren’t many hotels directly on Rodger's itself, but you’ll find everything from a brand-new luxury resort to small villas and budget guesthouses within easy reach. Here’s what I recommend when people ask me where to stay near Rodger's Beach.

Secrets Baby Beach Aruba – luxury all-inclusive

The new Secrets Baby Beach Aruba Adults Only Resort overlooks Baby Beach, just a short stroll from Rodger's. It’s the only true resort in the area, with all-inclusive dining, multiple pools, and modern rooms. It’s perfect if you want luxury and convenience right on the doorstep, though it has changed the once quiet vibe of this corner of San Nicolás.

Baby Beach Oasis

A modern villa with a pool, shaded patio, and self-catering setup. It’s within walking distance of Baby and Rodger's Beach, making it an excellent choice for couples or families looking for comfort and style.

Aruba Beachfront Lux Cabin

A charming cabin-style villa set directly on the waterfront within walking distance to Rodger's Beach. It’s perfect for travelers who want a rustic, private beach escape with the sea right outside their door.

Villas and guesthouses in San Nicolás

For a more intimate stay, there are vacation rentals and boutique guesthouses near Rodger's Beach scattered around San Nicolás. These mid-range choices give you more privacy, space, and a local feel compared to a large resort. They’re ideal if you want to immerse yourself in the quieter, authentic side of Aruba.

Budget stays further north

If you’re traveling on a budget, the best options are further up the coast in Savaneta or Oranjestad. It’s a 20–40 minute drive to Rodger's Beach, but with a rental car, it’s no problem. Here you’ll find small inns, guesthouses, and apartments that cost a fraction of what the big resort areas charge.

Where to stay near Rodger's Beach by travel type

• Luxury all-inclusive: Secrets Baby Beach Aruba Adults Only – the only true resort in the area.
• Families: Villas or vacation rentals in San Nicolás – more space and kitchens.
• Couples: Boutique guesthouses near San Nicolás – quiet and private.
• Budget travelers: Guesthouses and small inns in Savaneta or Oranjestad.

I love staying near Rodger's Beach for a night or two — it’s peaceful, and you can walk straight to the sand early in the morning before anyone else arrives. But for a full week, I usually split my trip: a couple of nights here in San Nicolás for the quiet, then back up to Eagle or Palm Beach where dining and nightlife are more varied.

Wondering how to get to Rodger’s Beach Aruba? This quiet bay is located right beside Baby Beach on the far southeast tip of the island, near San Nicolás and Seroe Colorado. It’s well outside Aruba’s hotel zone, but still easy to reach by taxi, rental car, or even public bus.

From the cruise port (Port of Oranjestad)

Cruise passengers can reach Rodger’s Beach by taxi in about 40–45 minutes or by bus. Some tours also include a stop here along with San Nicolás murals or Baby Beach. Since it’s far from town, it’s smart to arrange a pickup with your taxi driver for the return trip.

How far is Rodger’s Beach from the cruise port?

• Distance: ~35 km (22 miles)
• Driving time: 40–45 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $40–45 USD one way (more if the driver waits)

From the airport (Queen Beatrix International Airport, AUA)

From the airport, head south on Route 1 through Oranjestad and follow signs toward San Nicolás. Continue to Seroe Colorado, where the road leads directly to both Baby Beach and Rodger’s Beach.

How far is Rodger’s Beach from the airport?

• Distance: ~30 km (19 miles)
• Driving time: 35–40 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $35–40 USD one way

From Palm and Eagle Beach

If you’re staying in Aruba’s main resort area, drive south past the airport, then follow Route 1 through San Nicolás. From there, you’ll see signs pointing toward Baby Beach and Rodger’s Beach in Seroe Colorado.

How far is Rodger’s Beach from Palm & Eagle Beach?

• Distance: ~33 km (20–21 miles)
• Driving time: 45–50 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $45–50 USD one way

From Oranjestad

From the capital, take Route 1 south past the airport and continue straight toward San Nicolás. Rodger’s Beach is signposted along with Baby Beach once you reach the Seroe Colorado area.

How far is Rodger’s Beach from Oranjestad?

• Distance: ~35 km (22 miles)
• Driving time: 40–45 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $40–45 USD one way

From San Nicolás

From downtown San Nicolás, follow the road through Seroe Colorado and head straight to Rodger’s Beach. It’s the shortest and easiest trip if you’re staying in Aruba’s southern town. You can also take bus L900.

How far is Rodger’s Beach from San Nicolás?

• Distance: ~8 km (5 miles)
• Driving time: 10–15 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $15–20 USD one way

Taxi to Rodger’s Beach

If you’re not renting a car, a taxi is the simplest way to reach Rodger’s Beach. Drivers know it well since it’s right next to Baby Beach. Just be sure to arrange a pickup, as cabs don’t always wait in the area.

Approximate Rodger’s Beach taxi fares:

• From Oranjestad (cruise port): $40–45
• From Palm Beach: $45–50
• From Eagle Beach: $40–45
• From Noord: $45–50
• From AUA Airport: $35–40

Public transport to Rodger’s Beach

Arubus goes only as far as San Nicolás (routes L1, L2, L3A). From there, you’ll need to transfer to bus L900 to get closer to Baby Beach and Rodger’s Beach. It’s the cheapest option but not the most convenient if you’re carrying chairs, snorkel gear, or a cooler. Always check the latest Arubus routes and bus schedules.

Driving to Rodger’s Beach by rental car

The easiest way is by car. Roads are paved the entire way, so you don’t need a 4x4. From the resort strip, follow Route 1 south through San Nicolás, then continue straight into Seroe Colorado until you reach Rodger’s Beach.

Parking

There’s a free parking lot directly behind Rodger’s Beach. On weekdays it rarely fills, but weekends can be busy with locals. As always, don’t leave valuables inside the car.

Rodger’s Beach Aruba is a quiet, local gem with calm water, soft sand, and colorful fishing boats. It has no real facilities, but that’s part of its appeal. I’d recommend it for couples, families with small kids, or anyone wanting a peaceful break from Aruba’s busy resort beaches. Personally, I love spending a few hours here, often pairing it with Baby Beach or a visit to San Nicolás.