Boca Cataavlina, Noord

On our first trip to Aruba, boca catalina was a second choice for most tourists looking for a snorkeling spot. Most, back in the day would have chosen baby beach, whose abundant fish life and coral was largely destroyed by tour companies and overcrowding through years. This is happening now with boca as well, mostly with the same tour companies. About 10 ships at the time are dumping tourists into the water, who unknowingly are stepping on corals and getting too close to turtles. We witnessed couple of locals getting in a heated argument as a boat docked right at the beach, evading swimmers to drop off tourists who paid for a private tour. This is not a swimming beach, but you can surely find some sand areas. The beach itself is not that big and there are only a few palapas for a shade. One could get some shade near the trees but you will get a lizard or two keeping you close company while tanning. Overall, a nice beach, liked by many locals. No restrooms, no concessions, though Arashi beach has one, which is not too far away.

Smaller beach with couple spaces for parking. Public access with no bar. Very good place for snorkeling.

Snorkeling is just wonderful here. There were some boat with tourists, but there was plenty of beautiful fish and coral to see. I didn't bring the go pro so no underwater photos. Public transportation to and from cost me only 2 to ten bucks total.

Excellent to snorkel and it’s a very quiet beach to relax and enjoy!

A smaller more secluded beach. Best to get there earlier in the day as there aren't as many umbrellas available compared to the other bigger beaches. The snorkeling here was amazing! So many fish close to shore near the rocks. Lots of snorkeling ships stopping by here as well.