Stone Fish Cove
Aruba

Stone Fish Cove Aruba is one of the smallest and least inviting beaches on the island’s northeast coast, located between Red Fish Cove and Hyro’s Cove. Unlike its neighbors, it has almost no sand — just rocks and boulders with rough waves crashing in. It’s not suitable for swimming or snorkeling and has no shade or facilities, but it does offer a glimpse of Aruba’s rugged, untamed coastline. I personally don't think there is any reason for anyone to check it out.

Best time to visit Stone Fish Cove

• Time of day: Morning or late afternoon to avoid the harsh midday sun.
• Season: Same conditions year-round — dry, windy, and exposed.
• Weekdays or weekend: Always empty, no difference.
• Weather-wise: Expect strong sun, constant wind, and no shade.

Tips for visiting Stone Fish Cove

• Don’t expect a beach — it’s mostly rocks and surf.
• Wear sturdy shoes if walking along the coastline.
• Bring plenty of water and sun protection.
• Best as a quick stop while exploring the Natural Bridge and nearby coves.

What to bring to Stone Fish Cove

• Water, snacks, and sunscreen.
• Hat, sunglasses, and light clothing for protection.
• Good walking shoes for navigating rocky ground.
• A camera for photos of the rough coastline.

Stone Fish Cove doesn’t offer much on its own — it’s mostly rocks, boulders, and strong surf. Still, it can be a quick stop if you’re already exploring the northeast coast, especially since several of Aruba’s most interesting attractions are nearby.

Photography of rugged coastline

With barely any sand and constant waves slamming against the rocks, Stone Fish Cove is a spot for dramatic coastal photos. Its raw setting contrasts sharply with the island’s calm west-side beaches.

Bushiribana ruins

Just a few minutes away, the Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins showcase Aruba’s gold-mining history. The remains of the stone mill against the desert-like landscape are a classic stop for photos and a sense of the island’s past.

Natural Bridge

One of Aruba’s most visited sites, the Natural Bridge is right next door. The original bridge collapsed years ago, but the remains and the smaller Baby Bridge still attract travelers exploring this side of the island.

Ostrich Farm

On the road to the coves you’ll find the Aruba Ostrich Farm, where visitors can get up close to these unusual birds. It’s a quirky stop to add some variety to your day.

Horseback riding at The Gold Mine Ranch

For something more active, The Gold Mine Ranch offers guided horseback rides through dunes and along rugged trails by the coast. It’s a memorable way to see the island’s wild landscape from a different perspective.

Snorkeling isn’t possible at Stone Fish Cove. The shoreline is mostly rocks and boulders, and the waves crash directly into the cove, making it unsafe to enter the water. There are no reefs or calm areas here, so it’s not a place for marine life viewing.

If snorkeling is part of your Aruba trip, you’ll want to head to the island’s calmer west coast. Beaches like Malmok, Tres Trapi, and Boca Catalina are much better choices, with clear water, coral patches, and plenty of colorful fish.

There are no restaurants, beach bars, or shops at Stone Fish Cove. The area is completely undeveloped, so you’ll need to bring your own food and plenty of water if you plan to stop here. The only nearby option is a small snack stand near the Natural Bridge.

Thirst-Aid Station

Located by the collapsed Natural Bridge, Thirst-Aid Station is the closest place to grab refreshments. It’s a simple roadside spot offering cold drinks and light snacks — handy if you’re exploring the northeast coast, but not a substitute for a full meal.

There are no hotels or resorts at Stone Fish Cove — the area is too rugged and undeveloped. The nearest accommodations are inland in Noord, where you’ll find small lodges and apartment-style stays. These make a quiet base with easy access to the northeast coast while keeping you within a short drive of Aruba’s main beaches.

Koeriboeri Aruba Lodges

Set in a natural, peaceful environment, Koeriboeri offers rustic eco-lodges with plenty of space. It’s well suited for families or anyone wanting to stay away from the busy resort strip.

The Rocks Residence

A modern guesthouse in Noord, The Rocks Residence features simple yet comfortable apartments. Couples in particular enjoy the quiet setting and central location for exploring both Aruba’s wild coast and its tourist beaches.

Palm Garden Apartments Aruba

A budget-friendly option, Palm Garden Apartments provides self-catering units that are practical for independent travelers who prefer affordable comfort.

Where to stay near Stone Fish Cove by travel type:

• Families: Koeriboeri Aruba Lodges – natural, spacious, and peaceful.
• Couples: The Rocks Residence – modern apartments in a quiet setting.
• Budget travelers: Palm Garden Apartments Aruba – simple, affordable, and self-catering.

Stone Fish Cove itself isn’t a place to base yourself, but Noord works well if you want flexibility. That said, for most visitors, the hotel strip at Palm Beach or Eagle Beach still offers the best mix of convenience and amenities.

Stone Fish Cove is one of the small hidden coves right next to the Natural Bridge on Aruba’s northeast coast. The road leading here from the Ayo district is unpaved but not difficult, so you don’t need a 4x4 if you’re only visiting the Natural Bridge and nearby coves like Stone Fish. A regular rental car can handle it if you drive carefully. Still, if you plan to continue exploring the entire northeast coastline, there are rough stretches where a proper 4x4 is required.

From the cruise port (Port of Oranjestad)

Cruise passengers don’t usually visit Stone Fish Cove directly. Most see it as part of a jeep or UTV tour that includes the Natural Bridge. If you go independently, you can rent a car at the port or take a taxi to the Natural Bridge, then walk the short distance to the cove.

How far is Stone Fish Cove from the cruise port?

• Distance: ~22 km (13.5 miles)
• Driving time: 35–40 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $20–25 USD one way (to the Natural Bridge)

From the airport (Queen Beatrix International Airport, AUA)

From the airport, drive east through Oranjestad toward Santa Cruz, then follow signs for the Natural Bridge. The last part of the road is dirt, but manageable in a regular car if you take it slow.

How far is Stone Fish Cove from the airport?

• Distance: ~21 km (13 miles)
• Driving time: 30–35 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $25–30 USD one way (to the Natural Bridge)

From Palm Beach and Eagle Beach

From the hotel strip, head south through Oranjestad, then drive inland toward Santa Cruz. Follow the signs to the Natural Bridge, and from there it’s only a few minutes’ walk to Stone Fish Cove.

How far is Stone Fish Cove from Palm and Eagle Beach?

• Distance: ~18 km (11 miles)
• Driving time: 25–30 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $20–25 USD one way (to the Natural Bridge)

Taxi to Stone Fish Cove

You can arrange a taxi, but drivers won’t know the cove by name. Ask to be dropped at the Natural Bridge, then walk to Stone Fish Cove. It's important to discuss with the driver to pick you up later on or wait for you, because you won't find an other taxi nearby.

Public transport to Stone Fish Cove

There is no public transport to Stone Fish Cove.

Driving to Stone Fish Cove by rental car

If you’re only going to the Natural Bridge and Stone Fish Cove, a regular rental car works fine. But if you want to keep driving further along the northeast coast, a 4x4 is necessary.

Parking

You can park in the Natural Bridge parking area and walk to Stone Fish Cove. There’s no designated parking directly at the cove.

Stone Fish Cove Aruba is one of the least inviting beaches on the island’s northeast coast — a rocky inlet with hardly any sand and no safe swimming or snorkeling. With no facilities, shade, or reason to linger, it’s more of a curiosity stop than a destination. The only real value in visiting is if you’re already at the Natural Bridge and want to see every little cove along the rugged coastline.