Aruba has some of the finest snorkelling and diving in the southern Caribbean — the Antilla wreck (largest in the Caribbean) and Arashi Beach are the top spots; year-round calm water on the west side.
Why It’s Worth Your Time
Aruba's calm west-side waters and year-round visibility make it one of the best snorkelling destinations in the Caribbean. The Antilla (a German WWII cargo ship scuttled in 1940) is the largest wreck in the Caribbean and an extraordinary dive or snorkel site accessible by boat tour. Arashi Beach at the northwest tip has excellent snorkelling directly off the beach with no boat needed — coral, tropical fish, and turtles. Boca Catalina and Malmok are also excellent. Numerous operators offer morning tours from Palm Beach ($35–55 including equipment).
What Stands Out
- Antilla wreck — the Caribbean’s largest shipwreck
- Arashi Beach snorkeling directly from shore
- Calm water year-round
- Boca Catalina and Malmok Beach nearby
- Snorkel tours from Palm Beach (~$35–55)
- Turtles, coral, and tropical fish
- Excellent visibility