Spanish Lagoon: A Natural Sanctuary in Aruba
Discover Aruba's natural side at Spanish Lagoon: a haven for birdlife, mangroves, and a peaceful escape from the island's bustle.
Spanish Lagoon, a Ramsar-designated site and part of Arikok National Park since 2017, is Aruba's only inner bay, boasting diverse marine and bird life. This vital ecosystem features mangrove swamps and mudflats, serving as a crucial nursery for various species.
A brief summary to Spanish Lagoon
- F2HH+M77, Oranjestad, AW
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for the best chances of spotting diverse birdlife and enjoying a peaceful atmosphere.
- Bring binoculars for enhanced birdwatching and a camera to capture the lagoon's stunning scenery.
- Consider renting a kayak to explore the lagoon's calm waters and hidden corners.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking along the trails and bring water, especially on hot days.
Getting There
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Car
From Queen Beatrix International Airport, take Route 1 (L.G. Smith Boulevard) southeast towards Oranjestad. Continue on Route 1 until the junction with Route 4. Turn onto Route 4 towards Balashi/San Nicolaas. Look for the Balashi Gold Mill Ruins parking area, park here for free. Follow the marked trail from the parking area to reach Spanish Lagoon. There are no tolls on this route, and parking is free. Expect a 5-10 minute drive from the airport to the Route 4 junction, and another 5 minutes to the parking area.
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Public Transport
From Oranjestad, take a bus towards San Nicolaas. Alight near the Balashi Gold Mill or Frenchman's Pass. From there, it's approximately a 15-20 minute walk to the lagoon. Alternatively, take a taxi or ride-sharing service from the bus terminal to the Mill Ruins parking area, costing around $10-15. A bus ride from Oranjestad to the vicinity of Spanish Lagoon costs approximately Afl 2.50 - Afl 5.00 per person.
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Walking
From the center of Savaneta, head east on Weg naar San Nicolaas. Continue for about 1.5 kilometers until the intersection with Weg naar Oranjestad. Turn left onto Weg naar Oranjestad and continue for 2 kilometers, passing local shops and houses. At the roundabout, take the second exit onto L.G. Smith Boulevard. After another 1.5 kilometers, the entrance to Spanish Lagoon will be on your right. There are no costs associated with walking to Spanish Lagoon.
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