Boca Prins: Aruba's Wild Coastal Gem

Discover Aruba's rugged beauty at Boca Prins: dramatic dunes, crashing waves, and stunning coastal views in Arikok National Park.

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Boca Prins

Boca Prins, nestled within Arikok National Park on Aruba's northeast coast, is a secluded bay known for its dramatic scenery. Characterized by towering sand dunes, rugged limestone cliffs, and powerful waves, it's a haven for adventurers and photographers seeking a unique Aruban experience. Swimming is not recommended due to strong undertows, but the views and hiking opportunities are plentiful.

A brief summary to Boca Prins

Santa Cruz, AW

Local tips

Wear sturdy shoes for hiking the Boca Prins - Dos Playa Loop Trail, as the terrain is rocky and sandy.
Bring sun protection, including sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, as there is little shade available.
Check the Arikok National Park hours before you go, as the Vader Piet entrance typically closes at 3 PM.
Be cautious of strong currents and undertows; swimming is not recommended.

Getting There

Driving

From Santa Cruz, head east on Route 7 towards Arikok National Park. Enter the park and follow the signs towards Boca Prins. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended due to the unpaved and rugged roads. Park entrance fee is required. Parking is available near the beach.
Public Transport

From the Santa Cruz bus terminal, taxis are available to Boca Prins. The taxi ride will cost approximately $15-20 USD and take about 15 minutes. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

Discover more about Boca Prins

Boca Prins offers a stark contrast to Aruba's resort-lined beaches, presenting a wilder, more untamed natural landscape. Located on the northeast coast within Arikok National Park, the bay is framed by impressive white sand dunes and craggy limestone cliffs. The beach itself is small, measuring only about 55 meters, but its beauty lies in the dramatic meeting of land and sea. The beach gets its name from the former Prins Plantation. While the original plantation house is now in ruins, the area still evokes a sense of Aruba's history. The strong and constant trade winds from the northeast have shaped the dunes and coastline over time, creating a unique environment for exploration. While the turquoise waters may look inviting, swimming at Boca Prins is generally unsafe due to the powerful currents and strong undertows. However, the beach is a popular spot for hiking and photography. A moderately challenging 4.2-mile loop trail connects Boca Prins to Dos Playa, another picturesque beach in the national park. The trail winds through the dunes and along the coast, offering stunning views. Boca Prins is also conveniently located near other attractions within Arikok National Park, such as the Quadirikiri Cave and Fontein Cave, making it a worthwhile stop on a park tour.