Aruba Beach Day Essentials: What to Pack and Local Tips 🌴

Aruba’s beaches are famous for their soft white sand and crystal clear waters, but each one has its own character. Packing smart (and with Aruba in mind) means you’ll enjoy the island like a local, not just a visitor. Here’s our SunStays insider guide for what to bring and how to make the most of your Aruba beach day.

1. Sun Protection, Aruba Style 🌞

The Aruban sun is strong year-round, and shade isn’t always guaranteed.

• Reef-safe sunscreen: Protect your skin and the coral reefs. Aruba is encouraging visitors to use only reef-safe products to help preserve the island’s marine life, especially at snorkel spots like Boca Catalina and Mangel Halto.

• UV shirt or rash guard: Locals often wear these when swimming to avoid reapplying sunscreen constantly.

• Hat & sunglasses: Even under a palapa on Eagle Beach, the reflection off the sand and water can be intense.

💡 Local tip: Palapas (thatched umbrellas) on Eagle and Palm Beach are free, but they’re first-come-first-serve. Arrive early if you want one without renting chairs.

2. Hydration & Snacks – Stay Cool 🥥

• Plenty of water: Aruba’s dry trade winds trick you into feeling less hot, but dehydration sneaks up fast.

• Coconut water: Sold fresh on some beaches, a refreshing, natural electrolyte boost.

• Packable snacks: Boca Catalina Beach has no vendors, while Baby Beach has 2 beach bars. If you prefer flexibility, bring fruit, wraps, or trail mix.

💡 Local tip: If you’re planning a full beach day, stop by a local supermarket in the morning to grab ice, drinks, and snacks for your cooler.

3. Comfort on the Sand

• Quick-dry towels: The fine white sand sticks less to microfiber towels than cotton ones.

• Beach chairs/umbrella: At Palm Beach, you can rent loungers and umbrellas from some vendors. But if you’re exploring quieter beaches like Tres Trapi, bring your own compact chair, mat and umbrella.

• Water shoes: Not all beaches are powdery soft: Some places at Mangel Halto and Tres Trapi have rocky entry points where these come in handy.
  

4. Fun in the Water 🌊

• Snorkel gear: Must-have for Baby Beach (gentle waters) and Boca Catalina (lots of fish near shore). Bringing your own means you avoid rental queues and can hop between snorkel spots.

• Floaties or paddle ball: The calm waters of Palm Beach are perfect for lounging or a game.

• GoPro or waterproof phone case: The sea turtles at Tres Trapi and colorful reefs at Mangel Halto are worth capturing!
  

5. Keep Your Belongings Safe

• Dry bag: Especially useful if you’re hopping between beaches or kayaking at Mangel Halto.

• Cash: Some smaller beach bars and food trucks don’t always accept cards.

• Reusable tote or bag: Great for carrying your essentials and keeping plastic waste off Aruba’s beaches.

• Clip-on beach bag: Bring a small bag you can clip or attach to your chair or palapa to keep your belongings safe.

💡 Local tip: Although Aruba is one of the safest islands in the Caribbean, it’s best not to leave valuables unattended when you go for a swim.

6. Bonus Extras 🌴

• A light sweater: Sounds odd, but if you stay for the sunset at Arashi Beach, the breeze can feel cool after a swim.

• Portable speaker: Music is part of the Aruba vibe, just keep the volume respectful on quieter beaches.

• Reusable cup: Perfect for sundowners while watching Eagle Beach’s famous sunsets.

Whether it’s Eagle Beach, Baby Beach, or one of Aruba’s hidden spots, the right essentials make all the difference. A bit of planning ensures you can relax and enjoy the island to the fullest. Looking for more tips or information? Please don't hesitate to reach out to us directly, we would be glad to assist you!