Tres Trapi Beach
Aruba

Overview

Tres Trapi Beach is a small rocky cove located on Aruba’s northwestern coast, nestled between Malmok Beach and Boca Catalina. The name Tres Trapi means “three steps” in Papiamento: it refers to the rough stone steps carved into the rock that lead into the water.

Tres Trapi is famous for its free shore snorkeling, especially for swimming with sea turtles in clear, calm waters just off those rock steps. It isn’t your typical white-sand beach — there’s very little sand to lounge on — but if you’re into underwater life, marine giants, and photogenic shoreline views, Tres Trapi delivers.

If you want guaranteed snorkeling with turtles in Aruba, Tres Trapi is the place to go. I still remember vividly the first time I visited the beach and I saw 3 green sea turtles at the same time.

Best time to visit Tres Trapi Beach

• Early morning (≈ 6:30-11 AM) is the best for turtle sightings, clearer water, fewer crowds, and more gentle waves.
• Dry season months (roughly Aruba’s late December through April) tend to offer more sunshine and calmer seas.
• Try weekdays if possible — weekends bring more visitors and tours.
• Avoid days with strong winds from the east/northeast that make the coast choppier. Visibility drops when waves stir up sand.

Tips for visiting Tres Trapi Beach

• Arrive just after sunrise for calmer water, better light, and fewer people.
• Move slowly in the water — turtles are shy. Stay near the buoy line and don’t touch wildlife.
• Use a snorkel vest or float if you’re not a strong swimmer; turtles often feed a bit farther out.
• With no shade or facilities, treat Tres Trapi as a quick snorkel stop, not a full beach day.
• Use GPS to find the small roadside pull-off — it’s easy to miss.
• Combine Tres Trapi with Boca Catalina and Arashi on the same trip.
• Bring water and shade since nothing is available onsite.
• If taking a taxi, arrange pickup in advance — many won’t wait for wet passengers.

What to bring Tres Trapi Beach

• Snorkel set: mask, snorkel, fins (ideally with good grip)
• Reef-safe sunscreen and/or rash guard to protect from both sun and rock abrasions
• Water shoes or dive booties for rocky entry and exit
• Hat, sunglasses, waterproof bag, plenty of water, light snacks
• Float, snorkeling vest, or buoy if needed for safety/confidence
• Camera or waterproof phone case for underwater shots and landscape photos

Tres Trapi isn’t a place for long lazy beach days — there’s no sand or shade — but it’s one of the most rewarding spots on the island if you’re looking for snorkeling with turtles in Aruba. I usually stop here for an hour or two, then continue up the coast to Boca Catalina or Arashi. Here are the best things to do at Tres Trapi:

Snorkel with sea turtles at Tres Trapi

Tres Trapi is most famous for its resident turtles. Slip into the water from the carved limestone steps and swim toward the buoy line where turtles feed on seagrass. This is one of the easiest and most reliable places to swim with turtles in Aruba.

Join a turtle snorkeling tour

Tres Trapi guided snorkeling tours (2 hours or so) are offered that include gear and a local guide who knows where the turtles hang out. These are great if you want more guaranteed sightings and don’t want to figure it out solo.

Drift snorkel from Boca Catalina to Tres Trapi

On calm days, it’s possible to enter at Boca Catalina and let the current carry you toward Tres Trapi. Along the way, you’ll pass coral patches with schools of parrotfish, blue tang, and sergeant majors before finishing at the turtle zone.

Photography & nature watching

The combination of turquoise water, rugged limestone coast, and marine life makes onland and underwater photography at Tres Trapi a dream destination. You can capture starfish on the sandy bottom; above water, the rocky shoreline gives a dramatic backdrop, especially in early morning light.

Cliff jumping at Tres Trapi

Some visitors use the rocky ledges around Tres Trapi for cliff jumping into the cove. The drop is modest — around 3 meters (10 feet) — and should only be attempted when seas are calm and the water is clear.

Swimming & exploring shallow reef flats

There are sandy shallow zones for easy swimming at Tres Trapi (good for beginners), and reef edges with coral, fish & sea stars in slightly deeper water. Great for those who prefer gentler water.

Walk the Malmok boardwalk along the coast

While Tres Trapi itself is small, the stretch of coast between Malmok and Arashi offers wide ocean views and dramatic colors at sunset. I often stop back here in the evening for photos after snorkeling elsewhere.

Snorkeling at Tres Trapi Beach is a highlight of Aruba. It’s accessible, relatively easy for beginners, and has surprises underwater. If you want calmer water, sea turtles, starfish, or just a peaceful drift, this place delivers when conditions are right.

Where to snorkel: The best snorkeling spots at Tres Trapi Beach

• Start at the rock steps entrance: slip in here and swim out toward the shallow sandy area (≈ 1-3 m / 3-10 ft deep). Life is lighter here — small fish, occasional trunkfish or Bermuda chub.
• Move further out past the buoy line into the seagrass patches (≈ 3-4 m deep). This is where green sea turtles often graze. Expect more marine life here: starfish, fish schools, sometimes bottom-dwelling creatures.
• On calm days, snorkel north toward Boca Catalina reef structures; even if you don’t go all the way, the edges have coral patches and good visibility.
• If you want to stay in super-shallow water, within the first sandy stretch, there are cushion starfish laying around. They don’t move fast and are pretty photogenic — but don’t touch!

What you will see underwater

• Sea turtles (especially green turtles) grazing in seagrass past the buoys. Pretty much the highlight.
• Cushion sea stars (Oreaster reticulatus) on sandy and mixed sand-seagrass beds. Big, colorful, stationary. Great for underwater shots.
• Schools of reef fish: sergeant majors, parrotfish, blue tang, stumpfish, and small mid-sized fish. Occasionally more elusive species if you swim a little deeper.
• Also bottom dwellers and smaller marine critters: eels (gold-spotted or other kinds), occasional rays, and starfish varieties. Visibility depends.

Best time to snorkel at Tres Trapi Beach

• Early morning (≈ 6 AM-11 AM) is best: water tends to be calmest, clearer, less wind ripple, fewer people, and turtles are more active. I saw a friend go out at 8 AM and linger-swam past the buoys — saw 5 turtles before breakfast.
• During the dry season (roughly April through September / through November depending on sources), when water clarity is higher.
• Avoid times right after storms or heavy rain, or when trade winds are strong from the east/northeast — they stir up sand and reduce visibility. Mid-day visibility often suffers.

Safety tips and snorkeling guide

• Always test your entry via the stone steps slowly — wet rock can be slippery.
• Keep track of depth — past the buoy line may drop to ~3-4 m (10-13 ft); only go if comfortable.
• Stay aware of boat traffic; even if it’s quiet, some tours or launch-boats might pass close.
• Use reef-safe sunscreen; coral, starfish, turtles are sensitive to chemicals.
• Don’t chase turtles or touch starfish; respect wildlife.
• If you’re not a strong swimmer, consider a snorkeling vest or float.

Snorkel gear rental at Tres Trapi Beach

There are no gear rentals directly at Tres Trapi (no onsite vendor or shack). But there are plenty of options:

• Rentals near Palm Beach resort area or in Oranjestad; many dive shops or watersport outfitters.
• Tours that include snorkeling at Tres Trapi often supply gear.
• If you have your own good-fit mask / fins, you’ll appreciate them more here for comfort, visibility and less adjustment.

Tres Trapi snorkeling map

Follow this Tres Trapi Aruba snorkeling map to locate the turtles. They usually hang out over the seagrass patches.

Tres Trapi vs Boca Catalina snorkeling

Both Tres Trapi and Boca Catalina are on the same stretch of coast, but they feel different once you get in the water:

• Tres Trapi Beach – Best for spotting sea turtles and cushion starfish in shallow seagrass beds. Entry is from the rock steps, and there’s little space to hang out on shore. It’s more of a quick stop than a full beach day, but the wildlife is worth it.
• Boca Catalina Beach – Better if you want an actual small sandy beach with easier entry for kids and beginners. The snorkeling is over scattered coral heads with colorful reef fish, but turtle sightings aren’t as consistent as at Tres Trapi.

My advice: if you have time, do both. Start at Boca Catalina for a relaxed swim over the reef, then drift down or drive two minutes to Tres Trapi for the turtle finale. It’s one of the best back-to-back snorkeling combos in Aruba.

My personal honest opinion

I’ve snorkeled here multiple times, and every visit delivered. Once I went just after sunrise, the water was mirror-flat, I drifted over patches of sea grass, saw three turtles, and floated quietly over a cluster of cushion starfish just hanging out. Another time around midday, waves and wind had stirred things up; visibility dropped, fewer turtles but still enough life to make it worth the trip.

There are no restaurants or bars directly at Tres Trapi Beach. This rocky cove is all about snorkeling and turtle encounters, not full-day lounging. If you plan to stay more than an hour, bring your own food and water — most people snorkel here, take photos, then move on to another beach or the restaurants near Palm Beach Aruba for lunch.

Closest option: Arashi Beach Shack

The Arashi Beach Shack is just up the road, about two minutes from Tres Trapi. It’s a casual snack bar near Malmok Aruba, serving cold drinks, sandwiches, and simple beach bites. Don’t expect fine dining, but it’s perfect if you’re looking for food near Tres Trapi Beach after snorkeling.

Best restaurants and beach bars near Tres Trapi and Malmok

If you want more variety, the restaurants near Palm Beach Aruba are only a 5–10 minute drive. From casual beach bars to upscale dining, this area has everything from fresh seafood to international cuisine.

For travelers staying in Malmok villas, the closest options are usually in Palm Beach or Noord. While there aren’t many restaurants near Malmok Aruba itself, you’ll never be more than a short drive from plenty of choices.

I usually treat Tres Trapi as a short snorkel stop — I pack a snack and water, then head to Palm Beach or Eagle Beach afterward for a proper meal. If I just want something quick, the snack bar at Arashi Beach does the trick.

If you’re searching for hotels near Tres Trapi Beach, you won’t find massive resorts right on the Malmok shoreline — this area is mostly residential. Instead, there’s a mix of boutique hotels, villas in Malmok, and vacation rentals near Tres Trapi Beach. For more amenities and all-inclusive resorts, head to Palm Beach hotels only a 5–10 minute drive south.

Ocean Z Boutique Hotel

One of the most popular boutique hotels in Aruba Malmok, Ocean Z offers sleek design, a pool, and attentive service. It’s perfect if you want something stylish and intimate while staying close to Tres Trapi.

Villa Bougainvillea

A spacious Aruba villa near Tres Trapi Beach, ideal for families or groups who want privacy, a kitchen, and their own pool. It feels like a home rather than a hotel.

Viola Frankova

A great vacation rental for big groups near Tres Trapi Beach, designed with clean Caribbean style. A great choice if you prefer peace, space, and independence within minutes of snorkeling.

Tierra del Sol Resort & Golf

A larger Aruba resort community just minutes from Tres Trapi and Arashi. It combines villas, condos, and resort facilities like a pool, spa, and golf course. Tierra del Sol Aruba Resort is also known for its quiet setting and sunset views.

Swiss Paradise Aruba

A collection of apartments and villas in Noord, close to Malmok. Swiss Paradise Aruba is family-friendly, budget-friendly, and a practical option if you want to cook your own meals while staying near the best snorkeling beaches.

Where to stay near Tres Trapi Beach by travel type

• Families: Swiss Paradise Aruba
• Couples & adults-only luxury: Ocean Z Boutique Hotel
• For big groups (up to 8 people): Viola Frankova
• Mid-range condo comfort: Villa Bougainvillea
• Quiet boutique charm: Tierra del Sol Resort & Golf
• Budget travelers: Airbnb & Malmok guesthouses

My take: I like staying in Palm Beach hotels near snorkeling for easy dining and nightlife, then driving over to Tres Trapi early for turtles. But if you prefer privacy, one of the Malmok villas near Tres Trapi Beach gives you the feeling of living right by the island’s best snorkeling spots.

Tres Trapi Beach is on Aruba’s northwest coast, between Malmok Beach and Boca Catalina. The directions to Tres Trapi are pretty straightforward. It’s about 5–10 minutes from the Palm Beach hotel zone and around 20 minutes from Oranjestad. You can reach it by taxi, bus, or rental car.

From the cruise port (Port of Oranjestad)

Cruise passengers can reach Tres Trapi by renting a car at the port or taking a taxi. The drive follows L.G. Smith Boulevard north through Eagle and Palm Beach before continuing along the Malmok coast. Buses also run from the terminal to Malmok/Arashi, with a short walk to the beach.

How far is Tres Trapi Beach from the cruise port?

• Distance: ~11 km (7 miles)
• Driving time: 15–20 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $20–25 USD one way

From the airport (Queen Beatrix International Airport, AUA)

From the airport, head northwest through Oranjestad and follow L.G. Smith Boulevard past Eagle and Palm Beach toward Malmok. Rental cars are available at the airport, and taxis line up outside the arrivals hall.

How far is Tres Trapi Beach from the airport?

• Distance: ~13 km (8 miles)
• Driving time: 20–25 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $30–35 USD one way

From Palm and Eagle Beach

If you’re staying on the hotel strip, Tres Trapi is one of the closest snorkeling spots. Drive north past Hadicurari and Malmok Beach until you reach the roadside pull-off at the limestone steps. Taxis are easy to find outside resorts, but many visitors prefer the flexibility of a rental car.

How far is Tres Trapi Beach from Palm and Eagle Beach?

• From Palm Beach: ~3 km (2 miles), 5–10 minutes by car, ~$14 taxi fare
• From Eagle Beach: ~6 km (3.7 miles), 15 minutes by car, ~$18–20 taxi fare

From Oranjestad

Driving from downtown Oranjestad is straightforward: head north along L.G. Smith Boulevard through Eagle and Palm Beach, then continue toward Malmok until you see the steps by the roadside. Public buses run from the city’s terminal toward Arashi, with a stop at Malmok.

How far is Tres Trapi Beach from Oranjestad?

• Distance: ~11 km (7 miles)
• Driving time: 20 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $20–25 USD one way

From San Nicolás

San Nicolás is on the opposite side of Aruba. To reach Tres Trapi, follow Route 1 west through Oranjestad, then continue north along the hotel strip to Malmok. Renting a car is the most convenient option for this longer trip.

How far is Tres Trapi Beach from San Nicolás?

• Distance: ~32 km (20 miles)
• Driving time: 40–45 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $35–40 USD one way

Taxi to Tres Trapi Beach

Taxis in Aruba run on government-set rates. Always confirm the fare before leaving.

Approximate taxi fare to Tres Trapi Beach

• From Palm Beach to Tres Trapi: $14
• From Eagle Beach to Tres Trapi: $18–20
• From Oranjestad (cruise port) to Tres Trapi: $20–25
• From San Nicolás to Tres Trapi: $35–40
• From Savaneta to Tres Trapi: $35–40

Public transport to Tres Trapi Beach

Arubus services run from the hotel zone and Oranjestad toward Malmok and Arashi. Get off at the Malmok stop and walk 5–10 minutes south to the steps. A day pass is available if you plan multiple rides. Always check the most up-to-date Arubus routes and bus schedules.

Driving to Tres Trapi Beach by rental car

From Palm or Eagle Beach, follow L.G. Smith Boulevard north, then turn onto Malmokweg. Watch carefully for the small roadside pull-off by the limestone steps — it’s easy to miss.

Parking

Free parking is available at Tres Trapi beach as a small roadside turnout for a handful of cars. Arrive early to secure a space.

Tres Trapi Beach is one of those places that proves small can be unforgettable. It’s just a rocky cove with a few carved steps, but slip into the water and you’re in one of the best spots for snorkeling with turtles in Aruba. Families with little kids may prefer Boca Catalina or Arashi, but for confident swimmers and anyone chasing turtles, Tres Trapi is a must-visit. I’d never spend a whole day here — there’s no sand, shade, or facilities — but for a quick stop it’s hard to beat.