Boca Catalina Beach

The beach is petite in size and offers limited parking spots. There is no bar available, as it is open to the public. The beach is an ideal spot for snorkeling enthusiasts, with its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life.

This beach is an ideal spot for snorkeling enthusiasts, as the underwater world is simply excellent. Moreover, it is a peaceful and serene location, perfect for unwinding and soaking up the sun. Whether you want to simply relax or explore the marine life, this beach has something to offer everyone.

Looking for a beach that's not overcrowded with tourists? Look no further than this hidden gem. But don't dilly-dally, as the limited number of umbrellas means that early birds get the shade. And if you're a fan of underwater exploration, you'll be blown away by the snorkeling opportunities. The vibrant marine life is so close to the shore that you don't even need to be a strong swimmer to appreciate it. It's no wonder that snorkeling tours make a pit stop here - it's a true underwater paradise.

During our initial visit to Aruba, boca catalina was not the top choice for snorkeling among tourists. In the past, many would have preferred baby beach due to its abundant fish and coral life, but unfortunately, it was destroyed by tour companies and overcrowding. The same fate is now befalling boca catalina, with around 10 ships dumping tourists into the water, causing damage to corals and disturbing the turtles. We even witnessed a heated argument between locals as a boat docked at the beach, disrupting swimmers. While not ideal for swimming, there are areas with sand and a few palapas for shade. If you seek shade under the trees, expect to have some lizard companions while sunbathing. Despite its flaws, boca catalina remains a favorite among locals. There are no restrooms or concessions available, but Arashi beach, which is not too far away, has both.

The snorkeling experience at this beach is absolutely delightful. Despite the presence of some tourist boats, one can still witness an abundance of exquisite fish and coral formations. Unfortunately, I was unable to capture any underwater photographs due to the absence of my go pro. However, the cost of public transportation to and from the beach was very reasonable, ranging from only 2 to 10 dollars in total.