California Sand Dunes: Aruba's Desert Playground
Explore Aruba's unique desert landscape: the California Sand Dunes in Noord offer adventure, stunning views, and unforgettable photo opportunities.
The California Sand Dunes in Noord, Aruba, offer a unique desert-like landscape with rolling hills of sand, providing a striking contrast to the island's beaches. Named after a shipwrecked vessel, these dunes invite visitors to explore, sandboard, and capture stunning photos, especially during sunrise and sunset.
A brief summary to California Sand Dunes
- Noord, AW
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and stunning sunrise or sunset views.
- Bring plenty of water and sunscreen to stay hydrated and protected from the sun.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the sand.
- Check local weather conditions before your visit to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
- Explore the area around the dunes for additional hiking trails and natural attractions.
Getting There
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Car
From California Lighthouse, head southeast on Route 1 towards Noord. Continue for about 5 km until the intersection with Route 2. Turn left onto Route 2 and continue for about 2.5 km. Look for signs directing you to the California Sand Dunes; the parking area is about 1 km from the Route 2 turn. Parking may cost around $5.
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Public Transportation
From California Lighthouse, walk to the nearest bus stop on Route 1. Take the local bus heading towards Noord. The bus ride takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Get off at the stop closest to the California Sand Dunes (ask the driver if unsure). Walk approximately 1 km following the signs towards the dunes. The bus fare is typically around $2.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Noord. A taxi ride from Palm Beach to the California Sand Dunes typically costs around $15-$20. Ensure the taxi is officially registered and agree on the fare before starting the journey.
Discover more about California Sand Dunes
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hudishibana
0.2 km
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Sasariwichi Dunes
0.4 km
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Aruba Island Tour
0.5 km
Experience the enchanting landscapes, lively culture, and unforgettable adventures on an Aruba Island Tour, the ultimate Caribbean escape.
Faro Blanco Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with breathtaking views at Faro Blanco Restaurant near the California Lighthouse in Aruba.
Duinen van Westpunt
0.6 km
Explore the natural beauty and historical significance of Duinen van Westpunt, a stunning landmark in Noord, Aruba, perfect for nature lovers and history enthusiasts.
Westpunt Trail
0.9 km
Discover Aruba's natural beauty along the Westpunt Trail, a must-visit hiking area with stunning views and diverse wildlife.
Aruba Adventure Tours
1.1 km
Discover Aruba's stunning landscapes and vibrant marine life with thrilling adventures at Aruba Adventure Tours, the ultimate destination for equipment rentals.
Boca Catalina Arubus Stop
1.4 km
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Malmok Boardwalk
1.9 km
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When in Aruba
1.9 km
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Aruba Experience Cultural City Square
2.2 km
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Boca Catalina Modern Villa
2.8 km
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Skydive Aruba
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Hadicurari Beach
3.6 km
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Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba
4.0 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Westpunt Beach
0.3 km
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California Lighthouse
0.5 km
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Westpunt (Boca)
0.9 km
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Arashi Beach
0.9 km
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Arashi Park
1.0 km
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Boca Catalina Beach
1.5 km
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Tres Trapi Beach
1.8 km
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Antilla Shipwreck
2.0 km
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Tres Trapi
2.2 km
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Malmok Beach
2.3 km
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Etnia Nativa, the navel of Aruba
2.9 km
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Stacking Rocks Aruba
2.9 km
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Baboo Shipwreck
3.0 km
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El Tours & Transfers
3.5 km
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Aruba Adventure Tours / Segway Aruba / Polaris Aruba
3.6 km
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Essential places to dine
Arashi Beach Shack
1.1 km
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The Restaurant at Tierra del Sol
1.7 km
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Ocean Z Restaurant
2.0 km
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Saliña Local Cuisine
2.3 km
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Agrigento Ristorante Italiano
3.8 km
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Casa Nonna Aruba
4.0 km
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Solanio
4.0 km
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MADERO POOL & BEACH GRILL
4.0 km
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Oak Restaurant & Bar Aruba
4.0 km
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Atardi
4.2 km
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Waves Bar and Grill
4.2 km
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Nos Clubhuis
4.5 km
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Hadicurari
4.5 km
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Eduardos Hideaway
4.6 km
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Senses Fine Dining Restaurant
4.8 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
SD Gifts and Souvenirs
4.3 km
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Tradewinds store
4.4 km
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Luna Lotus Boutique
4.8 km
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Tipsy Blvd Aruba
4.8 km
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The Cove Mall
4.8 km
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Beach N Flips Aruba
4.9 km
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Ola Gallery
4.9 km
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Bally Boutique Aruba
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Montblanc Boutique Aruba
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Vadavas
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Paseo Herencia Mall
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Free spirit aruba
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Messika Boutique Aruba
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Lladró Boutique Aruba
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Lalique Boutique Aruba
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Yum Yum Aruba Truck
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Catina
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H2Oasis Adult Pool Bar
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Antilles Beach Bar
4.4 km
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Flip Flop Beach Bar
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YOLO Tapas and Bar
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Ché Bar
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Frenchie Café Aruba
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Flamingo's Cocktail Bar
5.0 km
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BONNY'licious
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The Beach Bar
5.0 km
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Piet's Pier Bar
5.2 km
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Chupitoz Shots Bar
5.4 km
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Mambo Jambo
5.4 km
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Bohemian Bar & Restaurant
5.5 km
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