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Boca Prins: Aruba's Wildly Beautiful Bay

Discover Aruba's wild side at Boca Prins: dramatic dunes, rugged cliffs, and powerful waves in Arikok National Park.

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Boca Prins, nestled within Arikok National Park, is a stunning bay on Aruba's northeastern coast. Known for its dramatic scenery, including towering sand dunes, rugged cliffs, and powerful waves, it's a haven for photographers and nature lovers seeking a different side of Aruba. Swimming is not recommended due to the strong currents, but the views and hiking opportunities are well worth the visit.

A brief summary to Boca Prins

  • Santa Cruz, AW

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy shoes for hiking the dunes and coastal trails.
  • Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities directly on the beach.
  • Check the weather forecast before visiting, as the area is exposed and can be windy.
  • Be aware of strong currents and undertows; swimming is not recommended.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From the Arikok National Park Visitor Center (San Fuego entrance), follow the signs towards Boca Prins. The drive is approximately 15 minutes on a partially unpaved road, and a high-clearance vehicle or 4x4 is recommended. Park in the designated parking area near the beach. Note that there is an entrance fee to Arikok National Park of US$22 for adults.

  • Public Transport

    From Oranjestad, take a bus towards Santa Cruz. From Santa Cruz, you can take a taxi to Boca Prins, which is located inside Arikok National Park. The taxi ride will cost approximately $15-20 and take about 15 minutes. Remember that there is an entrance fee to Arikok National Park of US$22 for adults.

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Discover more about Boca Prins

Boca Prins offers a dramatic departure from Aruba's typical calm, resort-lined beaches. Located within Arikok National Park on the island's northeast coast, this secluded bay captivates with its raw, untamed beauty. Here, you'll find towering white sand dunes cascading towards a narrow beach, framed by rugged limestone cliffs and the crashing waves of the Caribbean Sea. The bay is named after the former Plantage Prins, a coconut plantation that eventually succumbed to disease. Today, Boca Prins is all about immersing yourself in nature's power. The strong currents and undertows make swimming dangerous, but the views are mesmerizing. A staircase leads down to the beach, offering access to the sand and stunning perspectives of the cliffs and coastline. Explore the Boca Prins Dunes, formed over time by the constant trade winds. Hiking trails wind through the dunes and along the coast, providing opportunities for birdwatching and spotting local wildlife like iguanas. For a longer trek, consider the Boca Prins – Dos Playa Loop Trail, which leads to another picturesque beach within the park. While Boca Prins itself has limited facilities, its proximity to other attractions within Arikok National Park makes it a worthwhile stop. Visit the Fontein Cave to see ancient Arawak drawings or climb the lookout tower near Quadirikiri Cave for panoramic views. Remember to bring water and snacks, as there are no shops directly on the beach.

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