Dos Playa: Aruba's Rugged Coastal Treasure

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Discover Dos Playa: A captivating, secluded beach within Arikok National Park, offering dramatic scenery and thrilling surf on Aruba's wilder coast.

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Dos Playa

Dos Playa, meaning 'Two Beaches,' is a pair of scenic coves carved out of Aruba's limestone cliffs, located within Arikok National Park. Known for its raw, untouched beauty and powerful waves, it's a haven for surfers and those seeking a secluded beach experience. Swimming is generally not recommended due to strong currents.

A brief summary to Dos Playa

Santa Cruz, AW

Local tips

A 4x4 vehicle is recommended to navigate the unpaved roads leading to Dos Playa.
Bring your own refreshments, as there are limited facilities available.
Dos Playa is not recommended for inexperienced swimmers due to strong currents.
Consider visiting the nearby Boca Prins dunes for a unique landscape experience.
Check the Arikok National Park website for updated information on opening hours and entrance fees.

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Getting There

Car

From Oranjestad, drive east on Caya G.F. Betico Croes towards Cumana. Follow Route 7 to Boca Prins, then turn left just before Boca Prins, following the road to Dos Playa. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended due to unpaved roads. Note that there is an entrance fee of $15 USD to enter Arikok National Park. Parking is available near the beach.
Public Transport

Take a bus from Oranjestad to Santa Cruz. From Santa Cruz, take a taxi or local shuttle to the Arikok National Park entrance. Confirm with the driver that they can take you to Dos Playa. From the park entrance, it's a walk or a pre-arranged ride to the beach. Bus fare to Santa Cruz is approximately $2.60 USD. Taxi fare from Santa Cruz to Dos Playa will vary.
Walking

From the parking area, follow the marked trail to Dos Playa. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. The trail may have uneven terrain. There is no additional cost for walking from the parking area to the beach, after paying the Arikok National Park entrance fee of $15 USD.

Discover more about Dos Playa

Dos Playa offers a unique and contrasting beach experience compared to Aruba's typically calm, turquoise waters. Here, visitors will find two white-sand coves bordered by dramatic limestone cliffs, sculpted by the relentless pounding of the surf. The ever-changing sands and strong northeastern trade winds contribute to the beach's dynamic nature. One cove is a favorite among local surfers, drawn by the consistent swells and challenging waves. The other cove, requiring a short walk across the first, tends to be quieter. While sunbathing and relaxing under the shade of sea-grape trees are popular , swimming is generally discouraged due to the strong undertow and powerful currents. Dos Playa is also an important nesting site for sea turtles, including leatherback, hawksbill, green, and loggerhead turtles. Visitors during nesting season may witness the tracks of newly hatched turtles making their way to the sea. Located within Arikok National Park, exploring Dos Playa also grants access to other natural wonders, such as the nearby Boca Prins dunes and various caves.