Tres Trapi, California Lighthouse Travel Guide

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Discover Tres Trapi: Aruba's snorkeling gem where you can swim with sea turtles in crystal-clear waters. A must-visit for underwater adventures!

Tres Trapi, meaning "three steps," is a small cove on Aruba's northwest coast, renowned for its excellent snorkeling and abundant sea turtle population. It's not a typical sandy beach but a rocky shoreline providing easy access to a vibrant underwater world.

A brief summary to Tres Trapi

L. G. Smith Boulevard 105, Noord, AW

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Tres Trapi.

Arrive early (before 8:30 AM) to avoid crowds and increase your chances of seeing sea turtles.
Bring your own snorkeling gear, as rentals may not be readily available.
Wear water shoes to protect your feet from the rocky shoreline and slippery steps.
Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the marine environment.
Be respectful of the turtles and maintain a safe distance; avoid touching or chasing them.

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Explore Tres Trapi on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Tres Trapi, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

From the high-rise hotel area in Noord, drive north along L.G. Smith Boulevard. Tres Trapi is located between Boca Catalina and Malmok Beach. Look for a small parking area on the left side of the road near the distinctive rock steps. Parking is free. Be aware that the parking lot can be bumpy.
Public Transport

From Oranjestad or Noord, take the Arubus. The L10A and L10B lines stop at Malmok Beach or Boca Catalina, both within a short walking distance (approximately 1000 feet) of Tres Trapi. A single bus fare is $3 USD. Check the Arubus website for the most up-to-date schedules.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Aruba. A taxi from the high-rise hotels in Noord to Tres Trapi is a short ride. Taxi fares are government-regulated and based on zones. Expect to pay around $15-20 USD for a one-way trip from the Palm Beach area. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

Discover more about Tres Trapi

Tres Trapi isn't your typical Aruban beach with powdery white sand; instead, it offers a unique snorkeling experience. The name, meaning "three steps" in Papiamento, comes from the steps carved into the rock that provide access to the cove. Located on the northwest coast, just north of the high-rise hotel area, Tres Trapi is a haven for snorkelers seeking encounters with sea turtles and other marine life.While the small beach area has limited sand, the crystal-clear waters and rocky coves teem with marine life. Snorkelers can easily spot various fish species and cushion sea stars, but the main attraction is the sea turtles that frequent the area. The turtles are often found feeding on seagrass just beyond the buoys, making for unforgettable close encounters.Tres Trapi is easily accessible and offers free parking, making it a popular destination. However, it's recommended to arrive early to avoid crowds, especially from tour groups. Despite the lack of amenities like restrooms and showers, the natural beauty and incredible snorkeling opportunities make Tres Trapi a must-visit spot for nature lovers and underwater adventurers.