Tres Trapi: Aruba's Turtle Snorkeling Paradise

Discover Aruba's underwater wonders at Tres Trapi: swim with sea turtles in crystal-clear waters at this unique rocky cove.

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Tres Trapi

Tres Trapi, meaning 'three steps' in Papiamento, is a small, rocky cove on Aruba's northwest coast, renowned for its exceptional snorkeling and frequent sea turtle sightings. With limited sandy beach, it's more of a swimming and snorkeling destination, offering easy access to a vibrant underwater world.

A brief summary to Tres Trapi

Noord, AW

Local tips

Arrive early (6 AM - 11 AM) for the best chance to see sea turtles and avoid crowds.
Wear water shoes to protect your feet on the slippery, rocky steps and shore.
Bring your own snorkeling gear, as rentals may not be readily available.
Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the marine environment.
Be mindful of boat traffic and currents while snorkeling.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Noord, the Arubus (L10a) provides a direct route to Tres Trapi. Catch the bus at Palm Beach Plaza and disembark at the Malmok Beach stop. From there, it's a short walk (approximately 1000 feet) to Tres Trapi. The bus fare is $3.
Walking

From the Ritz-Carlton or Marriott, a sidewalk runs along the ocean side almost the entire way to Tres Trapi. The walk is roughly 1.5 miles. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as there is little shade along the way.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Noord. A taxi from the high-rise hotel area to Tres Trapi will cost approximately $14-$18. It's advisable to arrange for a return trip in advance, and be sure you are dry or have a change of clothes, as taxis may not allow wet passengers.
Car

From the high-rise hotel area in Noord, drive north along L.G. Smith Boulevard. Tres Trapi is located between Boca Catalina and Malmok Beach. Look for a small parking area near the steps. Parking is free.

Discover more about Tres Trapi

Tres Trapi isn't your typical Aruban beach with powdery white sand; instead, it's a unique rocky cove that has become a haven for snorkelers and sea turtle enthusiasts. The name, meaning 'three steps,' comes from the rustic steps carved into the rock that provide access to the water. Located on the northwest coast of Aruba, just north of Malmok Beach and south of Boca Catalina, Tres Trapi offers a different kind of beach experience focused on underwater exploration. While the beach itself is small and can get crowded, especially when tours arrive, the main draw is the incredible snorkeling. The crystal-clear waters are home to a variety of marine life, but the highlight is undoubtedly the opportunity to swim with sea turtles in their natural habitat. For the best chance of spotting turtles, visit early in the morning, between 6 AM and 11 AM, as they tend to move to deeper waters later in the day. You might also spot cushion sea stars and colorful fish. The entrance to the water is via the namesake three steps, which can be slippery, so water shoes are recommended. Once in the water, the bottom is sandy, and the snorkeling area extends about 100 meters offshore. Be aware of boat traffic and the current, and avoid touching or disturbing the marine life. Despite the lack of amenities, Tres Trapi's natural beauty and abundant sea life make it a must-visit for anyone seeking an unforgettable snorkeling experience in Aruba.