Introduction: Best Snorkeling Beaches in Aruba for Kids
Looking for the best snorkeling beaches in Aruba for kids? Whether you’re planning a family vacation or a day trip near your resort, Aruba offers several excellent snorkeling spots that are safe, shallow, and perfect for young swimmers. With calm Caribbean waters and easy shore access, many of Aruba’s beaches offer a beginner-friendly way for kids to explore marine life.
This guide rounds up the top snorkeling spots in Aruba for families, with insights from individual beach reviews on Kiddometer, including details on marine life, water entry points, and nearby amenities.
1. Mangel Halto
Read about snorkeling at Mangel Halto with kids.
Mangel Halto is one of the most peaceful and scenic snorkel spots in Aruba. Families love its shallow, protected waters and easy access from shaded mangrove shores. It’s great for older kids who are comfortable swimming a bit further to see coral formations, angelfish, and even octopuses near the reef drop-off. Bring water shoes and pack snacks, as amenities are limited on site.
Why it’s great for kids: Calm lagoon-like waters, shaded entry, and rich fish diversity make it ideal for confident young snorkelers.
2. Puerto Chiquito
Read about snorkeling at Puerto Chiquito with kids.
Just south of Mangel Halto, Puerto Chiquito is a lesser-known gem with gentle currents and a wide sandy entry, making it very accessible for younger kids. Colorful reef fish are visible close to shore, and the beach is often less crowded. While there are no facilities nearby, it’s a quiet, low-stress environment for beginner snorkelers.
Why it’s great for kids: Very shallow waters, quiet location, and little to no current.
3. Arashi Beach
Read about snorkeling at Arashi Beach with kids.
Arashi Beach combines soft white sand, gentle surf, and reef areas perfect for beginner snorkeling. The northern end of the beach has rocky zones where tropical fish congregate. Lifeguards, beach huts, and a snack bar nearby make it especially convenient for families.
Why it’s great for kids: Sandy beach, amenities on-site, and shallow snorkeling areas with clear visibility.
4. Catalina Cove
Read about snorkeling at Catalina Cove with kids.
Catalina Cove offers a calm, sandy-bottomed cove just a short walk from Boca Catalina. The water here is shallow with scattered coral and seagrass beds that attract colorful fish. Its protected setting and gentle waves make it ideal for younger snorkelers just getting comfortable with fins and a mask.
Why it’s great for kids: Sandy and shallow, with easy entry and low wave activity.
5. Malmok Beach
Read about snorkeling at Malmok Beach with kids.
Malmok Beach is a rocky shoreline with crystal-clear water and coral patches teeming with life. While entry is from a rocky shore, the snorkeling payoff is worth it: you’ll see schools of fish close to the surface. This spot is best for older kids who are comfortable in water with some structure underfoot.
Why it’s great for kids: Calm water and easy-to-see marine life close to shore; best for confident snorkelers with supervision.
6. Boca Catalina
Read about snorkeling at Boca Catalina with kids.
Boca Catalina is a favorite among locals and visitors for its vibrant coral reef and the chance to see green sea turtles. Accessible from a small sandy beach, it offers great underwater visibility and a wide range of tropical fish. Early mornings are best for wildlife sightings and fewer crowds.
Why it’s great for kids: Sandy entrance, chance to spot turtles, and manageable depths (with supervision).
7. Tres Trapi
Read about snorkeling at Tres Trapi with kids.
This tiny cove, accessed by three carved rock steps, is a hidden gem for snorkeling families. Known for its clear water and abundance of cushion starfish, Tres Trapi is both a great photo spot and a gentle snorkel site. It’s a short swim out to the starfish zone, so adult supervision is a must.
Why it’s great for kids: Calm water, sea stars in shallow areas, and fun entry via carved steps.
Tips for Snorkeling with Kids in Aruba
- Pack reef-safe sunscreen to protect both your children and the marine environment.
- Bring your own snorkel gear if possible. While rentals are available, a proper fit is important for kids.
- Supervise closely—even shallow areas can have boat traffic or strong currents on certain days.
- Time it right: Mornings tend to have calmer waters and better visibility.
- Hydrate and snack: Many beaches lack food options, so pack water and kid-friendly snacks.
Conclusion: Best Beaches for Family Snorkeling Adventures in Aruba
Aruba makes it easy for families to introduce their kids to snorkeling. With crystal-clear waters, gentle waves, and a variety of sea life even in shallow zones, each of these beaches has something special to offer. Whether you’re visiting for a day or planning a week of beach-hopping, these snorkeling beaches in Aruba for kids are all worth a stop.
Planning your Aruba family trip? These guides can help you make the most of your time on the island:
- Aruba with Kids: Family Travel Guide
- Best Restaurants in Aruba
- Best Snorkeling in Aruba for Families
- Kid-Friendly Hikes in Aruba
Check out our ranked family travel lists for Aruba:
- Best Things to Do in Aruba with Kids (Ranked)
- Best Family Beaches in Aruba (Ranked)
- Best Family Stays in Aruba (Ranked)
For more general travel info, visit the Wikivoyage page on Aruba.
