California Sand Dunes: Aruba's Desert Escape
Explore Aruba's unexpected desert landscape: the California Sand Dunes offer adventure and stunning views near the iconic California Lighthouse.
The California Sand Dunes in Noord, Aruba, offer a unique desert-like landscape on a Caribbean island. Named after the shipwreck of the 'California' , these dunes provide a striking contrast to the island's beaches and turquoise waters, inviting exploration and adventure.
A brief summary to California Sand Dunes
- Noord, AW
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and the best light for photography.
- Bring plenty of water and sunscreen to stay hydrated and protected from the sun.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on sand.
- Be mindful that driving on the dunes is prohibited to protect the environment.
Getting There
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Car
From the California Lighthouse, head southeast on Route 1 towards Noord. Turn left onto Route 2 and follow the signs directing you to the California Sand Dunes. Parking is available near the dunes, with a potential fee of around $5.
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Public Transport
From the California Lighthouse, walk to the nearest bus stop on Route 1 and take the local bus heading towards Noord. Get off at the stop closest to the California Sand Dunes and walk approximately 1 kilometer following the signs. The bus fare is typically around $2.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Noord. A taxi ride from a nearby hotel or the California Lighthouse to the dunes will cost approximately $10-$15. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your 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
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Faro Blanco Restaurant
0.6 km
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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
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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
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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
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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
4.5 km
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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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