Urirama Beach
Aruba

Overview

Urirama Beach Aruba is not a destination for relaxing, but more of a forgotten spot along the island’s rugged northeast shore. The waves crash hard against the rocky coast, and the sand is usually littered with debris. The only landmark here is an abandoned shack, making it feel eerie and deserted.

Best time to visit Urirama Beach

• Time of day: Morning is cooler for hiking or photos.
• Season: Looks the same all year.
• Weekdays or weekend: Always empty.
• Weather-wise: Hot, windy, and exposed.

Tips for visiting Urirama Beach

• Don’t expect a beach day here.
• Bring your own water, snacks, and sun protection.
• Wear sturdy shoes for the rocks and dirt roads.
• Visit only if already touring the northeast coast.

What to bring to Urirama Beach

• Water, snacks, and sunscreen.
• A hat for sun protection.
• Camera if you want to capture the shack and rugged scenery.

There are very few activities to do at Urirama Beach itself since it’s not suitable for swimming or snorkeling, but it does give you a raw glimpse of Aruba’s wild northeast coast. The beach is best for a quick stop to look around, take photos, and explore the surroundings.

Check out the abandoned shack

The shack is the only landmark at Urirama Beach. Weathered and falling apart, it adds to the remote and forgotten atmosphere. Many travelers stop just long enough to snap a picture before moving on.

Photography of rugged coastline

The powerful surf crashing against the rocky shore makes for striking photos, especially if you like capturing Aruba’s untamed scenery. The contrast between the abandoned shack, scattered debris, and rough waves gives the area a dramatic, almost eerie vibe.

Hiking along the shore

From Urirama Beach, you can walk along the northeast coastline and discover other small hidden coves and rocky inlets. It’s not an easy hike — the ground is uneven and exposed to the sun — but it’s a way to experience more of Aruba’s rugged, off-the-beaten-path nature.

Snorkeling is not possible at Urirama Beach. The surf is too strong, and the rocky shoreline makes it unsafe to enter the water. For actual snorkeling, head to calmer west coast beaches such as Malmok, Tres Trapi, or Boca Catalina.

Snorkeling is not possible at Urirama Beach. The waves are rough, the currents are strong, and the rocky shoreline makes it dangerous to enter the water. There are no reefs, coral formations, or calm areas here.

If you want a real snorkeling experience in Aruba, head to the island’s west coast, where the water is calm and crystal-clear. Malmok Beach, Tres Trapi, and Boca Catalina are three of the best snorkeling beaches in Aruba, offering coral patches, schools of tropical fish, and safe conditions.

There are no hotels or resorts at Urirama Beach; it is way too far from any developed area. The nearest places to stay are small guesthouses and villas inland, particularly around Noord, which could be a great place to stay if you want to visit the north coast of Aruba frequently.

Urirama Beach is located on Aruba’s northeast coast, reached only by rough dirt tracks. The area is completely unsigned and undeveloped, so a 4x4 is required. An alternative option is hiking to Urirama Beach from Alto Vista Chapel.

From the cruise port (Port of Oranjestad)

Not a practical cruise stop. Reaching Urirama requires renting a jeep or 4x4, as taxis won’t normally take you.

How far is Urirama Beach from the cruise port?

• Distance: ~18 km (11 miles)
• Driving time: 30–35 minutes
• Taxi fare: Not practical (drivers may refuse)

From the airport (Queen Beatrix International Airport, AUA)

From the airport, you’ll drive north through Oranjestad and Noord before cutting inland toward the northeast coast.

How far is Urirama Beach from the airport?

• Distance: ~17 km (10.5 miles)
• Driving time: 30–35 minutes
• Taxi fare: Not practical (drivers may refuse)

From Palm Beach and Eagle Beach

From the hotel strip, head north to Noord and then inland toward the northeast coast. Only a 4x4 can handle the dirt tracks.

How far is Urirama Beach from Palm and Eagle Beach?

• Distance: ~14 km (8.5 miles)
• Driving time: 25–30 minutes
• Taxi fare: Not practical (drivers may refuse)

Taxi to Urirama Beach

Taxis are not available for this location. Even if you manage to arrange one, you’d need to schedule a return pickup since no taxis wait in the area.

Public transport to Urirama Beach

There is no public transport to Urirama Beach.

Driving to Urirama Beach by rental car

A rental jeep or 4x4 is the only way to get here. I tried with a regular sedan and managed it, but I wouldn't recommend.

Parking

There’s no official parking lot at Urirama Beach — just a sandy patch near the shack.

Urirama Beach Aruba is one of the least appealing beaches on the island. With no swimming, no snorkeling, and nothing but an abandoned shack and garbage, it’s not worth a special trip. The only reason to stop is if you’re already exploring the northeast coast by jeep and want to see every corner of Aruba.