Eagle Beach

Eagle Beach is the beach most people picture when they imagine Aruba: a broad, brilliant-white ribbon of soft sand backed by sea-grape bushes and the island's famous wind-bent divi-divi trees. Regularly ranked among the best beaches in the world, it is wider and far less built-up than the high-rise strip to the north, with low-rise hotels set back from the sand and plenty of open space to spread out.

The water is calm, warm and shallow for a long way out, shading from clear aqua near the shore to deep turquoise further out. Constant trade winds keep the air comfortable even at midday, and the gentle entry makes it ideal for families, swimmers and anyone who just wants to float. The two leaning divi-divi trees near the middle of the beach are the most photographed spot on Eagle Beach, framing the classic Aruba sunset shot.

What to know before you go

• Entry is free and there is public parking along the road behind the sand.
• Natural shade is limited, so bring an umbrella or rent a palapa where available.
• Beach bars and food trucks operate along the back of the beach.
• There are no full-time lifeguards, but the water is calm and family friendly.

Eagle Beach sits just south of the resort strip, an easy hop from Palm Beach and the quieter, low-key Manchebo Beach and Druif Beach next door. A sunset catamaran cruise is a popular way to end an Eagle Beach day. Come early for the calmest water and the best stretch of empty sand.