Boca Catalina: Aruba's Tranquil Snorkeling Paradise
Discover Boca Catalina: Aruba's hidden gem with crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and tranquil sunsets. Perfect for snorkeling and relaxation.
Boca Catalina is a small, secluded bay on Aruba's northwest coast, renowned for its calm, crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life. This easily accessible beach offers excellent snorkeling opportunities right off the shore, attracting both locals and tourists seeking a peaceful escape.
A brief summary to Boca Catalina Beach
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Local tips
- Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and secure a good spot on the beach, especially on weekends.
- Bring your own snorkeling gear, as there are no rental facilities directly on-site.
- Pack a picnic and drinks, as there are limited facilities and no restaurants or food vendors nearby.
- Wear reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate marine ecosystem.
- Consider water shoes to protect your feet from rocks when entering the water.
Getting There
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Car
From the high-rise hotels in Palm Beach, drive north on L.G. Smith Boulevard for approximately 5-10 minutes. Boca Catalina will be on your left, marked with signs. There is a small parking area available. If the lot is full, continue north towards the California Lighthouse for additional parking at Arashi Beach, a short walk away. Parking is free.
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Public Transport
Take the Arubus from Oranjestad or the hotel area to Boca Catalina. The bus service is reliable and inexpensive. Check the Arubus website for the most up-to-date schedule and route information. A round trip card costs $5.00 USD.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Aruba. A taxi from the Palm Beach hotel area to Boca Catalina will cost approximately $18-$25 USD. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. Note that there is a $3.00 surcharge on Sundays, official holidays, and from 11:00 PM to 7:00 AM.
Discover more about Boca Catalina Beach
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Boca Catalina Arubus Stop
0.1 km
Discover Aruba's underwater beauty at Boca Catalina: a serene beach with crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling and relaxation.
Malmok Boardwalk
0.4 km
Discover the natural beauty of Aruba at Malmok Boardwalk, a scenic paradise for relaxation, adventure, and breathtaking sunsets.
When in Aruba
0.5 km
Explore Aruba like a local with expert tips and resources at When in Aruba, the ultimate tourist hub for unforgettable island experiences.
Aruba Adventure Tours
0.5 km
Discover Aruba's stunning landscapes and vibrant marine life with thrilling adventures at Aruba Adventure Tours, the ultimate destination for equipment rentals.
Faro Blanco Restaurant
1.0 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with breathtaking views at Faro Blanco Restaurant near the California Lighthouse in Aruba.
Aruba Island Tour
1.0 km
Experience the enchanting landscapes, lively culture, and unforgettable adventures on an Aruba Island Tour, the ultimate Caribbean escape.
Aruba Experience Cultural City Square
1.1 km
Experience Aruba's vibrant culture in Oranjestad's Cultural City Square, a hub of art, music, and local traditions. A must-see for every visitor!
Westpunt Trail
1.2 km
Discover Aruba's natural beauty along the Westpunt Trail, a must-visit hiking area with stunning views and diverse wildlife.
Boca Catalina Modern Villa
1.3 km
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Hudishibana
1.4 km
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Sasariwichi Dunes
1.5 km
Discover the stunning natural beauty and historical significance of Sasariwichi Dunes, a breathtaking landmark in Aruba's unique landscape.
Duinen van Westpunt
2.0 km
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Skydive Aruba
2.2 km
Soar above Aruba's breathtaking landscapes with Skydive Aruba, where adventure meets stunning aerial views of the Caribbean paradise.
Hadicurari Beach
2.2 km
Experience the beauty and tranquility of Hadicurari Beach, a tropical paradise in Aruba perfect for relaxation and water sports.
Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba
2.6 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Tres Trapi Beach
0.2 km
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Arashi Park
0.6 km
Discover Arashi Park in Aruba: A serene escape with lush landscapes, scenic trails, and the beautiful Arashi Beach nearby. Perfect for relaxation and nature lovers.
Arashi Beach
0.7 km
Discover Arashi Beach: Aruba's serene escape with calm waters, stunning sunsets, and excellent snorkeling, perfect for families and relaxation.
Antilla Shipwreck
0.7 km
Discover the historical Antilla Shipwreck in Aruba – a diver's paradise teeming with marine life and rich history beneath the waves.
Malmok Beach
0.8 km
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California Lighthouse
1.0 km
Discover Aruba's iconic California Lighthouse: panoramic views, rich history, and stunning sunsets await on the island's northern tip.
Tres Trapi
1.1 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Tres Trapi in Noord, Aruba, a hidden gem perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxation in nature.
Baboo Shipwreck
1.4 km
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California Sand Dunes
1.5 km
Explore Aruba's unique desert landscape: rolling white sand dunes, stunning Caribbean views, and the historic California Lighthouse.
Etnia Nativa, the navel of Aruba
1.7 km
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Westpunt Beach
1.8 km
Discover Westpunt Beach in Aruba: A serene escape with stunning sunsets, unique rock formations, and crystal-clear waters.
Westpunt (Boca)
2.1 km
Discover Westpunt (Boca) in Aruba: Where dramatic coastlines meet rich history, offering stunning views and a tranquil escape for every traveler.
El Tours & Transfers
2.1 km
Discover the beauty and culture of Aruba with customized experiences from El Tours & Transfers, the premier tour agency in Noord.
Fisherman's Huts (Kite and Windsufing)
2.2 km
Aruba's top kiteboarding and windsurfing beach, offering ideal conditions for beginners and advanced riders alike.
Aruba Adventure Tours / Segway Aruba / Polaris Aruba
2.3 km
Unforgettable Aruba adventures: Segway, UTV, and Seabob tours for exploring the island's beauty and excitement.
Essential places to dine
Ocean Z Restaurant
0.5 km
Experience fine dining at Ocean Z Restaurant in Aruba with breathtaking views and exquisite local cuisine.
Arashi Beach Shack
0.5 km
Experience authentic Caribbean flavors at Arashi Beach Shack while enjoying breathtaking ocean views in Aruba's tropical paradise.
The Restaurant at Tierra del Sol
1.1 km
Experience exceptional dining with breathtaking views at The Restaurant at Tierra del Sol in Aruba.
Saliña Local Cuisine
1.1 km
Experience authentic Aruban flavors at Saliña Local Cuisine in Noord – a culinary journey you won't forget.
Agrigento Ristorante Italiano
2.5 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Agrigento Ristorante Italiano in Noord, Aruba - where every dish tells a story.
Casa Nonna Aruba
2.5 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Casa Nonna Aruba, where delicious flavors meet island charm in Palm - Eagle Beach.
MADERO POOL & BEACH GRILL
2.5 km
Savor delicious Latin-inspired cuisine with stunning ocean views at Madero Pool & Beach Grill in Aruba.
Solanio
2.5 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Solanio in Noord, Aruba – where every dish tells a story.
Oak Restaurant & Bar Aruba
2.7 km
Discover Oak Restaurant & Bar in Noord, Aruba - where local flavors meet elegance for an unforgettable dining experience.
Waves Bar and Grill
2.8 km
Experience delightful coastal dining at Waves Bar and Grill in Noord, Aruba – where fresh flavors meet stunning ocean views.
Atardi
2.8 km
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Nos Clubhuis
3.0 km
Experience the best of Aruban cuisine at Nos Clubhuis – where delicious grilled dishes meet stunning views in Noord.
Hadicurari
3.1 km
Discover Hadicurari: A culinary haven offering diverse cuisine from breakfast delights to seafood feasts amidst stunning Caribbean views.
Senses Fine Dining Restaurant
3.3 km
Discover exquisite flavors at Senses Fine Dining Restaurant in Noord, Aruba - where culinary artistry meets island charm.
Eduardos Hideaway
3.3 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
SD Gifts and Souvenirs
2.9 km
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Tradewinds store
2.9 km
Explore vibrant fashion and unique styles at Tradewinds Store in Noord, Aruba - your destination for local clothing and accessories.
Luna Lotus Boutique
3.3 km
Discover stylish swimwear and beach accessories at Luna Lotus Boutique in Aruba, where fashion meets the sun and sea.
Tipsy Blvd Aruba
3.4 km
Discover a vast selection of local and international spirits at Tipsy Blvd Aruba, your premier liquor store on the island.
The Cove Mall
3.4 km
Discover a shopper's paradise at The Cove Mall in Aruba, where unique boutiques and delightful dining options await your visit.
Beach N Flips Aruba
3.4 km
Discover the best beachwear and swimwear at Beach N Flips Aruba, your stylish destination for seaside adventures.
Ola Gallery
3.5 km
Discover unique Aruban artistry and handcrafted gifts at Ola Gallery, a vibrant art gallery and gift shop in Noord, Aruba.
Vadavas
3.5 km
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Paseo Herencia Mall
3.5 km
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Free spirit aruba
3.5 km
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Bally Boutique Aruba
3.5 km
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TIME SQUARE ARUBA
3.5 km
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Montblanc Boutique Aruba
3.5 km
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Messika Boutique Aruba
3.5 km
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Sunset Shack
3.5 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Yum Yum Aruba Truck
1.0 km
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Catina
2.5 km
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H2Oasis Adult Pool Bar
2.8 km
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Antilles Beach Bar
2.9 km
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Flip Flop Beach Bar
3.0 km
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YOLO Tapas and Bar
3.4 km
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Ché Bar
3.4 km
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Frenchie Café Aruba
3.4 km
Discover the lively ambiance and live music at Frenchie Café Aruba, a premier nightlife destination in Noord, perfect for a vibrant evening out.
Flamingo's Cocktail Bar
3.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aruba at Flamingo's Cocktail Bar, where expertly crafted cocktails meet a lively tropical atmosphere.
BONNY'licious
3.5 km
Experience the vibrant cocktail culture of Aruba at BONNY'licious, where expertly crafted drinks and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
The Beach Bar
3.5 km
Experience the ultimate beachside cocktail paradise at The Beach Bar in Aruba, where sun, sand, and sensational drinks await you.
Piet's Pier Bar
3.7 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and stunning sunset views at Piet's Pier Bar in Aruba, where delicious cocktails and seafood await.
Chupitoz Shots Bar
3.9 km
Discover the heart of Aruba's nightlife at Chupitoz Shots Bar, famous for its creative shots and lively atmosphere.
Mambo Jambo
3.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Mambo Jambo, a popular bar in Arawak Gardens, Noord, Aruba, offering a diverse drink menu and a lively atmosphere.
Kalibra Bar
4.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Kalibra Bar in Noord, Aruba, where refreshing cocktails and lively entertainment await you.
