Balashi Gold Mills
Discover the Rich History of Balashi Gold Mills
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.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Spanish Lagoon
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
F2HH+M77, Oranjestad, AW
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Getting There
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.
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.
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.
Local tips
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Visit early in the morning for the best chances of spotting diverse birdlife and enjoying a peaceful atmosphere.
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Bring binoculars for enhanced birdwatching and a camera to capture the lagoon's stunning scenery.
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Consider renting a kayak to explore the lagoon's calm waters and hidden corners.
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Wear comfortable shoes for walking along the trails and bring water, especially on hot days.
Discover more about Spanish Lagoon
Located approximately 10 kilometers southeast of Oranjestad, Spanish Lagoon (Spaans Lagoen) is a significant coastal wetland in Aruba. This inner bay, formed during the last ice age, stretches about 2 kilometers long and 200 to 500 meters wide. Designated as a Ramsar site in 1980, it gained further protection in 2017 when it was incorporated into Arikok National Park.Spanish Lagoon is renowned for its rich biodiversity, serving as a vital habitat for numerous species. The lagoon's ecosystem includes tidal mudflats and mangrove forests, which act as crucial breeding and feeding grounds for birds, reef fish, and crustaceans. The mangroves provide shelter and nursery areas for marine life, while the mudflats attract various bird species.Historically, the Spanish settlers used the bay as a main entry point to Aruba in the 15th century. The area also features remnants of Amerindian settlements dating back to 4500 BP, with archaeological evidence found at Frenchman's Pass. Nearby, the ruins of the Balashi Gold Mill offer a glimpse into Aruba's colonial past.Today, Spanish Lagoon is a haven for nature lovers and birdwatchers. It is home to over 80 bird species, including herons, pelicans, and the island's national bird, the Shoco (Aruban burrowing owl). Visitors can explore the lagoon via kayak or guided tours, observing the diverse flora and fauna. Snorkeling is also popular, with opportunities to see a variety of fish and coral.
A brief summary to Spanish Lagoon
Use Spanish Lagoon as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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