Dos Playa (nord beach)
Dos Playa: Aruba's Untamed Coastal Beauty
Dos Playa: Aruba's Rugged Coastal Beauty
Discover the rugged beauty of Dos Playa, Aruba: a surfer's paradise and nature lover's escape within Arikok National Park.
Dos Playa, meaning 'two beaches,' is a stunning and secluded spot within Arikok National Park on Aruba's northeast coast. Known for its dramatic limestone cliffs, powerful waves, and two picturesque coves, it's a haven for surfers and nature lovers seeking an escape from the island's more crowded shores.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Dos Playa
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Santa Cruz, AW
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Getting There
Car
From Oranjestad, take Route 4 towards Santa Cruz. Continue onto Route 7, and then follow signs for Arikok National Park. Enter the park (entrance fee is $15 USD). Follow the main park road southeast, adhering to signs for Dos Playa. The road will become unpaved and rough; exercise caution. After approximately 15 minutes, you'll arrive at a parking area. Park here and walk the short, marked trail (5-10 minutes) to the beach. Note that a 4x4 vehicle is recommended. Parking is free.
Public Transport
Take a bus from Oranjestad to Santa Cruz. From Santa Cruz, hire a taxi or arrange a local shuttle to the Arikok National Park entrance. Confirm with the driver that they can take you to Dos Playa. Bus fare to Santa Cruz is approximately $5 USD. Taxi fare from Santa Cruz to Dos Playa will vary, negotiate the price before you get in.
Walking
Once inside Arikok National Park, if you choose to walk from the park entrance to Dos Playa, follow the main road southeast. Be prepared for a long walk (several hours) under the sun with limited shade. Bring plenty of water and wear appropriate clothing. After a considerable walk, you will reach the parking area for Dos Playa, from there follow the clearly marked trail leading from the parking lot. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes and is relatively easy but may have some uneven terrain.
Local tips
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A 4x4 vehicle is recommended to reach Dos Playa due to the rough, unpaved roads within Arikok National Park.
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Bring your own food and drinks, as there are no facilities available at Dos Playa.
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Swimming is not recommended due to strong currents; instead, enjoy the beach's beauty and watch the surfers.
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Wear sturdy shoes for walking on the uneven terrain and exploring the cliffs.
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Visit during the week to avoid crowds, as Dos Playa can get busy on weekends.
Discover more about Dos Playa
Dos Playa offers a unique and raw coastal experience, showcasing the untamed beauty of Aruba's natural landscape. Located within Arikok National Park, this beach is comprised of two white-sand coves carved out by the relentless শক্তি of the ocean. Towering limestone cliffs frame the coves, creating a dramatic backdrop and providing shade.
While the scenery is breathtaking, swimming is generally not recommended due to the strong and dangerous underwater currents. Instead, Dos Playa is a popular destination for experienced surfers and bodyboarders who come to challenge the powerful waves. Even if you're not a surfer, it's mesmerizing to watch them ride the swells.
Dos Playa is also an important nesting site for sea turtles, including leatherback, hawksbill, green, and loggerhead turtles. If you visit during nesting season, you might be lucky enough to spot turtle tracks on the sand.
To fully appreciate the area, explore beyond the beach. The nearby Boca Prins dunes offer panoramic views, and several caves within Arikok National Park are worth discovering. Keep in mind that Dos Playa is a secluded beach with no amenities, so bring your own refreshments and beach gear.
A brief summary to Dos Playa
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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