Dos Playa Beach
Aruba

Overview

Inside Arikok National Park, Dos Playa Aruba is a wild and rugged beach where two sandy coves face the pounding surf of the north coast. The name means “Two Beaches,” and both are framed by limestone cliffs, golden sand, and constant waves that make swimming unsafe but the scenery unforgettable.

Dos Playa is one of the most dramatic hidden beaches in Aruba, perfect for a quiet stop during a park visit. I visited this place a few times and I was always completely alone, which is a huge contrast to the more popular beaches on Aruba.

Best time to visit Dos Playa Aruba

• Time of day: Early morning or late afternoon for soft light and fewer visitors.
• Season: Dry season (January–September) offers clearer skies and less chance of rain.
• Weekdays vs. weekend: Weekdays are quieter, while weekends bring more locals.
• Weather-wise: Trade winds keep it breezy year-round, but summer afternoons can feel hot without shade.

Tips for visiting Dos Playa Aruba

• Wear sturdy shoes for walking over rocky terrain.
• Bring plenty of water — there are no facilities.
• Stay back from the surf, as waves are powerful.
• Combine it with other Arikok National Park sights.

What to bring to Dos Playa Aruba

• Water and light snacks.
• Sunscreen and a hat (no shade).
• Camera or drone for aerial shots.
• Sneakers or sandals with grip.

Dos Playa isn’t for swimming — the surf is too rough — but it’s one of the best things to see in Arikok National Park if you want wild scenery. The two side-by-side coves are dramatic and make a perfect stop when exploring nearby caves, dunes, and other natural attractions in Aruba.

Surfing and bodyboarding

Local surfers and bodyboarders ride the powerful waves here, though it’s not for beginners. Even from the sand, it’s one of the most thrilling adventure things to do in Aruba.

Photography and scenery

The twin coves, golden sand, and cliffs are incredibly photogenic. Dos Playa is one of the top spots for scenic views in Aruba, and I love shooting from the cliffs and beach.

Hiking in Arikok National Park

Several trails pass near Dos Playa, linking to park highlights like Fontein Cave and the Natural Pool. A short cliff walk gives sweeping views, or you can tackle longer hiking activities in Aruba’s desert landscape.

Wildlife and sea turtles

Dos Playa is a sea turtle nesting beach (March–September), with roped-off areas protecting the nests. On land, expect lizards, birds, and even goats — making it a rewarding spot for wildlife watching in Aruba.

Snorkeling isn’t possible at Dos Playa — the waves and rip currents are simply too strong. Even on calm-looking days, the north coast can be unpredictable, and there are no calm pools or reefs close to shore. It’s a place to admire the power of the ocean, not to get in the water.

If snorkeling is on your Aruba list, head to the island’s calmer spots on the west and south coasts. Mangel Halto has shallow reefs and mangroves teeming with fish, Tres Trapi is famous for swimming with turtles, and Arashi Beach offers gentle entry points and colorful coral. These beaches give you the safe, clear-water experience Dos Playa can’t provide.

There are no restaurants, bars, or facilities at Dos Playa itself. The only option inside Arikok National Park is located a short drive away.

Boca Prins Restaurant

About 15 minutes from Dos Playa, this casual spot sits on the cliffs overlooking the ocean. It’s the only place inside the park where you can get a meal or cold drink. The menu is simple — think local fish, burgers, and snacks — but after exploring Arikok it hits the spot.

If you prefer variety, wait until you’re back in San Nicolás or Santa Cruz, where there are plenty of local restaurants and cafes. Otherwise, come prepared with water and snacks, as you won’t find anything to eat at Dos Playa itself.

There are no hotels or resorts at Dos Playa Beach, or in Arikok National Park overall. If you want to stay close, the best options are around the park entrances in San Nicolás and Santa Cruz. From there, you can easily drive into the park and explore Dos Playa along with other attractions.

Secrets Baby Beach Aruba

A luxury adults-only resort near San Nicolás at the southern Vader Piet entrance of Arikok National Park, offering beachfront suites and an all-inclusive experience.

Fuego Mio Bed & Breakfast

A small B&B in Santa Cruz with colorful rooms and friendly hosts, perfect for travelers who want to be near the park. It is located at the northeast entrance of the park, making it the closest guesthouse to Dos Playa.

Where to stay near Dos Playa by travel type

• Families: Vacation rentals in Santa Cruz with kitchens and space to spread out
• Couples & adults-only luxury: Secrets Baby Beach Aruba
• Budget travelers: Guesthouses and Airbnbs in San Nicolás or Santa Cruz

If you plan to explore Arikok often, staying in Santa Cruz or San Nicolás saves you time on the road. Otherwise, I’d base myself near Oranjestad or the resort area and just day-trip into the park.

Dos Playa is located on the north coast inside Arikok National Park, about a 15-minute drive from the main visitor center. You’ll need to pay the park entrance fee and drive along dirt roads, so a rental car is the most flexible way to visit. Taxis can be arranged but are less practical since there are no stands inside the park.

From the cruise port (Port of Oranjestad)

Cruise passengers can visit Dos Playa as part of a guided Arikok tour or by renting a car. Taxis are possible, but drivers usually charge extra to wait while you explore.

How far is Dos Playa from the cruise port?

• Distance: ~20 km (12.5 miles)
• Driving time: 35–40 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $45–55 USD one way (higher if driver waits)

From the airport (Queen Beatrix International Airport, AUA)

From the airport, follow Route 1A into Santa Cruz and enter Arikok via the main entrance. Roads are paved at first, then turn into dirt as you near Dos Playa.

How far is Dos Playa from the airport?

• Distance: ~16 km (10 miles)
• Driving time: 30–35 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $35–40 USD one way

From Palm and Eagle Beach

Head south toward Oranjestad, then follow Route 1A inland through Santa Cruz to the park entrance. Continue on the park roads toward the north coast until you reach Dos Playa.

How far is Dos Playa from Palm and Eagle Beach?

• Distance: ~22 km (13.5 miles)
• Driving time: 35–40 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $45–55 USD one way

From Oranjestad

Take Route 1A east toward Santa Cruz and enter Arikok via the main gate. Inside the park, follow signs toward Dos Playa.

How far is Dos Playa from Oranjestad?

• Distance: ~20 km (12.5 miles)
• Driving time: 35 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $40–50 USD one way

From San Nicolás (Baby Beach)

Drive north through San Nicolás and follow Route 7 toward Vader Piet, then head into Arikok through the southern entrance. Follow the internal park roads to reach Dos Playa.

How far is Dos Playa from San Nicolás (Baby Beach)?

• Distance: ~25 km (15.5 miles)
• Driving time: 40–45 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $50–60 USD one way

Taxi to Dos Playa

You can find taxis easily in Oranjestad, San Nicolás, and at the airport, but inside the park there are no taxi stands. If you take a taxi, prearrange for your driver to wait or pick you up at a set time.

Approximate taxi fare to Dos Playa Aruba

• From Oranjestad to Dos Playa: $40–50 USD
• From Palm & Eagle Beach to Dos Playa: $45–55 USD
• From San Nicolás to Dos Playa: $50–60 USD
• From the airport to Dos Playa: $35–40 USD

Public transport to Dos Playa

There is no public bus service into Arikok National Park, so you can’t reach Dos Playa by bus. The only options are rental car, taxi, or guided tour. The closest you can get by bus is Santa Cruz, then hike or take a taxi from there. Always check the most up-to-date Arubus routes and bus schedules.

Driving to Dos Playa by rental car

A rental car is the best option to visit Dos Playa. Park roads are dirt but manageable with a regular car in dry weather; after heavy rain, a 4x4 is more comfortable.

Parking

There’s a small sandy parking area directly behind DosPlaya. It’s free, and you’ll usually only see a few other cars.

Dos Playa Aruba is one of those beaches that reminds you how powerful and wild the island really is. With its two sandy coves, crashing waves, and dramatic cliffs, it’s more about scenery and atmosphere than swimming.

I wouldn’t recommend it for families with small kids or anyone looking for calm water, but if you’re into adventure, nature, and off-the-beaten-path experiences, it’s a must-see stop in Arikok National Park.