Boca Catalina

Boca Catalina is a small, sheltered cove on Aruba's calm northwest coast that has become one of the island's best-loved shore-snorkeling spots. The compact crescent of pale sand drops into clear, shallow water where schools of reef fish gather close to shore, so you barely have to swim out to be surrounded by them. The calm, protected conditions make it ideal for beginners and families.

Because the snorkeling is so good and so easy, snorkel-and-sail boat tours often stop here, and the cove can get busy at midday. Early morning is the calmest and least crowded time, with the best visibility. There are no facilities on the sand itself, so come prepared. The rocky edges of the bay shelter the fish and keep the water still.

Snorkel tips for Boca Catalina

• Bring your own snorkel gear; there are no rentals at the cove.
• Arrive early to beat the boat tours and find a spot on the small beach.
• Stay near the rocky edges where the reef fish gather.
• There is little shade and no lifeguard, so pack sun protection and water.

Boca Catalina sits in the Noord district between Malmok Beach and Arashi Beach, all calm snorkeling coves within a short drive. A guided Boca Catalina snorkel trip often pairs the cove with the nearby Antilla shipwreck.