Wariruri Beach
Aruba

Overview

The first time I came across Wariruri Beach, it almost felt like a surprise — a wide bay hidden along the northeast coast, with waves constantly pounding against the cliffs. There isn’t much to “do” here in the classic sense, but standing on the sand with the wind in your face gives you that raw, untamed feeling that Aruba’s wild side is known for.

What makes Wariruri a little more interesting than the other coves nearby is the small natural bridge formation right on the beach. It’s not as famous as the main Natural Bridge down the coast, but it adds a nice touch and makes the spot worth a quick stop when exploring this side of the island.

Best time to visit Wariruri Beach

• Time of day: Morning and late afternoon have the best light for photos and cooler temperatures.
• Season: Conditions don’t change much — it’s windy and rough year-round.
• Weekdays or weekend: Always quiet, though jeep tours may stop here midday.
• Weather-wise: Hot, dry, and exposed — there’s no shade at all.

Tips for visiting Wariruri Beach

• Plan this as a quick stop — most people spend 10–20 minutes here.
• Bring water and sunscreen, since there are no facilities.
• Wear sturdy shoes if you want to explore the rocky edges.
• Combine it with the Bushiribana ruins or other sights on the northeast coast.
• Have your camera ready for the natural bridge and cliff views.

What to bring to Wariruri Beach

• Plenty of water and snacks as there is no place to shop.
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat — it’s completely exposed.
• Good shoes if you want to wander around the cliffs.
• A camera for the natural bridge and wave shots.

Wariruri Beach doesn’t offer traditional beach activities like swimming or snorkeling, but it’s a spot where the scenery does all the work. Most people stop here briefly while touring the northeast coast, taking in the waves, cliffs, and the small natural bridge that gives the bay a bit of character.

Photography of rugged scenery

The wide bay and constant surf make Wariruri a striking place for photos. The natural bridge on the beach adds a focal point, and the crashing waves give every shot a sense of drama.

Combine with other northeast coast stops

Wariruri is best enjoyed as part of a broader drive or hike along Aruba’s northeast coast. Pairing it with other stops — from hidden coves to lookout points — turns it into a nice addition to a day of off-road exploring.

Bushiribana ruins

Just south of Wariruri you’ll find the Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins, one of the island’s most photographed landmarks. The old stone walls against the coastline make for a great stop before or after visiting Wariruri.

Ostrich Farm

On the way inland, the Aruba Ostrich Farm offers a completely different experience. You can feed the birds, snap some unusual photos, and get a quirky break from the rough coast.

Horseback riding at The Gold Mine Ranch

If you want to do more than just look at the scenery, The Gold Mine Ranch runs horseback tours that pass through dunes, rocky trails, and coastal areas near Bushiribana. It’s a fun way to experience this part of Aruba from a different angle.

Snorkeling is not possible at Wariruri Beach. The bay is exposed to strong currents, constant surf, and a rocky bottom, making it unsafe to enter the water. There are no reefs or calm areas here, and visibility is poor because of the waves.

If you want to snorkel in Aruba, it’s best to head to the calmer west coast. Beaches like Malmok, Tres Trapi, and Boca Catalina are among the island’s top snorkeling spots, with clear water, shallow reefs, and plenty of colorful fish. These areas are easy to reach, safe for beginners, and much more rewarding for marine life viewing.

There are no restaurants, bars, or shops anywhere near Wariruri Beach. The area is completely undeveloped, so you’ll need to bring your own water, snacks, or anything else you might need. If you’re planning to spend time exploring the northeast coast, it’s best to stock up in Oranjestad or Noord before heading out, as there are no facilities along this stretch.

You won’t find hotels or resorts directly at Wariruri Beach — the coastline here is too rugged and undeveloped. The nearest places to stay are inland in Noord, where you’ll find small lodges and apartments that provide a peaceful base with easy driving access to both the northeast coast and Aruba’s main tourist beaches.

Koeriboeri Aruba Lodges

Surrounded by natural scenery, Koeriboeri offers rustic eco-lodges in a quiet setting. With plenty of space and a family-friendly atmosphere, it’s ideal if you’re looking to escape the busier resort areas.

The Rocks Residence

This small, modern guesthouse in Noord has comfortable apartments and a relaxed vibe. Couples like it for the privacy and central location that makes exploring both the wild coast and the resort strip convenient.

Palm Garden Apartments Aruba

A simple, affordable choice, Palm Garden Apartments provides self-catering units that work well for independent travelers who want flexibility without overspending.

Where to stay near Wariruri Beach by travel type

• Families: Koeriboeri Aruba Lodges – space, peace, and a natural setting.
• Couples: The Rocks Residence – private, modern, and quiet.
• Budget travelers: Palm Garden Apartments Aruba – practical and affordable.

These Noord accommodations are convenient if you want a calm base and plan to explore the island by car. That said, for most travelers, staying on the hotel strip at Palm Beach or Eagle Beach still offers the best mix of hotels, restaurants, and activities.

Wariruri Beach sits along Aruba’s northeast coast, just north of the Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins. The access road is unpaved but relatively easy, so you don’t need a 4x4 if you’re only visiting Wariruri or Bushiribana. A regular rental car can handle it if you drive slowly. However, if you plan to continue further along the northeast coast toward more remote coves, you’ll definitely need a proper jeep or UTV. You can also hike to Wariruri Beach from Noord.

From the cruise port (Port of Oranjestad)

Cruise passengers sometimes see Wariruri Beach on half-day jeep or UTV tours that include Bushiribana and other nearby stops. If you’re visiting independently, you can rent a car at the port and drive, but expect 30–35 minutes on mixed paved and dirt roads.

How far is Wariruri Beach from the cruise port?

• Distance: ~15 km (9 miles)
• Driving time: 30–35 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $20–25 USD one way (drivers may prefer to drop you at Bushiribana)

From the airport (Queen Beatrix International Airport, AUA)

From the airport, head through Oranjestad and follow the route north toward Bushiribana. From there, Wariruri is only a few minutes’ drive on a dirt track.

How far is Wariruri Beach from the airport?

• Distance: ~14 km (8.5 miles)
• Driving time: 25–30 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $25–30 USD one way (arrange drop-off near Bushiribana)

From Palm Beach and Eagle Beach

From the hotel strip, drive south into Oranjestad and then cut across toward Noord and Bushiribana. Wariruri sits just beyond the ruins, along a rough dirt track.

How far is Wariruri Beach from Palm & Eagle Beach?

• Distance: ~12 km (7.5 miles)
• Driving time: 20–25 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $20–25 USD one way (taxis may prefer drop-off near Bushiribana)

Taxi to Wariruri Beach

Taxis are available from major tourist areas, but drivers may not recognize Wariruri Beach by name. Ask to be dropped at the Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins, which are just south of the bay, and then walk the short distance. Always prearrange your return pickup since taxis do not wait here.

Public transport to Wariruri Beach

There is no public bus service to Wariruri Beach.

Driving to Wariruri Beach by rental car

A rental car is the easiest way to reach Wariruri Beach. Regular cars can handle the road to Bushiribana and Wariruri if you go slowly. For longer trips along the northeast coast, a 4x4 or UTV is required.

Parking

You can park along the sandy patch near Wariruri Beach. There are no marked parking spaces, but it’s rarely busy.

Wariruri Beach Aruba is a rugged bay on the island’s northeast coast, wider and more scenic than the tiny coves nearby. The small natural bridge gives it a unique touch, and the location just north of the Bushiribana ruins makes it an easy stop if you’re already exploring the area. I’d recommend Wariruri Beach for travelers who enjoy off-road exploring, photography, or checking out every hidden corner of Aruba’s wild side.