Why Snorkel Catalina Cove with Kids?
Catalina Cove is one of the better shore-accessible snorkeling spots in Aruba. For families visiting the island with older kids who are comfortable swimmers, it offers an easy opportunity to explore marine life without booking a boat tour. While the entrance is rocky and conditions can vary, the payoff is a variety of fish, sponges, and some coral formations in shallow water.
If you’re deciding between Catalina Cove and nearby Boca Catalina Beach, keep in mind that while Boca Catalina is more beginner-friendly in terms of access, it has very limited underwater life. Most of the interesting marine activity is concentrated around Catalina Cove itself.
Getting There and Access Tips for Families
Catalina Cove can be accessed by car and is about a 2-minute drive from Arashi Beach. Parking is limited, but typically manageable in the mornings.
Shore vs. Boat Access
While many boat tours stop here, families with a rental car can easily snorkel Catalina Cove from shore. Shore access offers flexibility and allows kids to ease into the water on their own schedule—ideal for younger or less experienced snorkelers.
Best Water Entrance Points
1. Direct Entry at Catalina Cove
The most direct entrance is from the rocky cove itself. The water entry is partially sandy but mostly rocky, so water shoes are highly recommended. If there are any waves or swell, skip this entrance—it can be difficult to balance on the uneven rocks with kids in tow.
2. Easier Entry from Boca Catalina Beach
For younger children or families without water shoes, enter the water at nearby Boca Catalina Beach. It’s a sandy entrance and much easier for little feet. From there, swim to the right toward Catalina Cove. This route provides access to the same underwater sights but with a safer start.
Optional Drift Snorkel Route
For confident swimmers and older children, consider a one-way drift snorkel from Catalina Cove to Arashi Beach. You’ll need shoes for the rocky entry and should park one car at each end if possible. After snorkeling, walk the short path back to your starting point.
Snorkeling Video at Catalina Cove
Where to Snorkel and What You’ll See
Once in the water, swim past the rocky point to the right side of the cove. Avoid staying too close to shore, as the water becomes too shallow to safely snorkel. The most rewarding areas are farther out but still within reach for confident swimmers.
Expect to find:
- Rocky boulders in varying sizes, hosting colorful sponges
- A scattering of corals (not a reef-dense spot)
- A good number of tropical fish, especially near areas where tour boats feed them
- Shallow depths ranging from 2–5 feet, making it manageable for kids who are comfortable in the water
Note: Water clarity can vary. On some days, an algae bloom can reduce visibility and make the bottom appear murky. This is not dangerous but may affect how much marine life your kids can spot.
For families interested in exploring more snorkel spots nearby, check out our guide to snorkeling Arashi Beach with kids.
Safety Tips for Families
- Use Water Shoes: Especially if entering at Catalina Cove.
- Check Water Conditions: Avoid snorkeling during high waves or after storms.
- Stay Together: It’s easy to get distracted by fish or coral. Always keep kids within arm’s reach.
- Avoid Feeding Fish: Tour boats often feed fish, but families should avoid doing so to preserve natural behavior.
- Stay Clear of Boats: Look out for white buoys marking boat zones. Stay on the beach-facing side of them.
Facilities at Catalina Cove and Boca Catalina
Catalina Cove has a few shaded palapas, but facilities are limited. For more comfort, families may prefer Boca Catalina, which offers more shaded areas and a wider stretch of sand for setting up towels and beach gear. Neither spot has restrooms, so plan accordingly.
Is Catalina Cove Worth It for Families?
Yes, especially for families with school-aged kids or teens who are comfortable snorkeling in shallow water. While not the most vibrant coral spot in Aruba, Catalina Cove offers a safe and engaging snorkeling experience, all accessible from the shore. It’s best combined with a visit to Arashi Beach or as a short stop during a beach day in the area.
