Boca Prins: Aruba's Wildly Beautiful Coast

Discover Aruba's rugged beauty at Boca Prins: dramatic dunes, crashing waves, and a serene escape within Arikok National Park.

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Boca Prins

Boca Prins, nestled within Arikok National Park, offers a dramatic coastal experience with its rugged cliffs, expansive sand dunes, and powerful waves. Swimming is not recommended due to strong currents, but the stunning scenery and secluded atmosphere make it a worthwhile stop for photographers, nature lovers, and adventurers seeking Aruba's untamed side.

A brief summary to Boca Prins

Santa Cruz, AW

Local tips

Wear sturdy shoes suitable for hiking on uneven terrain and hot sand.
Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited facilities available.
Check the Arikok National Park's operating hours before you go.
Be aware of strong currents and waves; swimming is not recommended.
Apply sunscreen, wear sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection, as there is little natural shade.

Getting There

Car

From the Arikok National Park Visitor Center, follow the signs towards Boca Prins. The road is unpaved and can be rugged, so a 4x4 vehicle is recommended. The drive is approximately 30-40 minutes from Palm Beach or Oranjestad. Enter the park through the Vader Piet entrance, which is the closest access point to Boca Prins. Park in the designated parking area near the beach; parking is free. Note that there is an entrance fee of $11 to Arikok National Park.
Public Transport

From the bus terminal in Santa Cruz, taxis are readily available and will cost approximately $15-20 for a 15-minute ride to Boca Prins. Alternatively, buses run from Tanki Leendert towards Santa Cruz. From the bus stop, walk along the path leading to the beach. Check local bus schedules for times.

Discover more about Boca Prins

Boca Prins is a hidden gem located on the northeastern coast of Aruba, within the protected boundaries of Arikok National Park. This secluded beach is not your typical Caribbean paradise of calm turquoise waters and soft, powdery sand. Instead, Boca Prins offers a dramatic and raw landscape, characterized by towering limestone cliffs, expansive white sand dunes, and the constant crashing of powerful waves. The beach itself is small, stretching only about 55 meters, and is part of Boca Prins Bay, surrounded by cliffs. The strong currents and high waves make swimming dangerous and are not recommended. However, the allure of Boca Prins lies in its untamed beauty and the sense of being far removed from the bustling tourist areas. Visitors can explore the towering sand dunes that stretch along the coast, sculpted by the constant trade winds. Hiking trails wind through the dunes and along the cliffs, offering panoramic views of the coastline and the rugged interior of Arikok National Park. The contrast between the white sand, the dark cliffs, and the deep blue sea creates striking visual opportunities for photographers. Boca Prins is named after the former Plantation Prins that once occupied the area. While the plantation is long gone, the name remains as a reminder of the island's history. The beach offers a serene escape where one can chill and enjoy the sounds of nature. While swimming is not safe, visitors can still enjoy the beach by dipping their toes in the sand and dancing in and out of the waves on the shore.