Aruba: Natural Pool Swim & Baby Beach Snorkel Day Trip

Summary

Snorkel Aruba’s turquoise pools and swim at hidden coves with a local guide

You’ll ride across Arikok’s desert landscape in an open truck, swim in Aruba’s Natural Pool surrounded by volcanic rocks, explore ancient caves with Arawak drawings, and end your day snorkeling at Baby Beach. With a local guide handling all logistics—including pickup, snacks, park entry fees—you’re free to soak up every salty breeze and splash of sunlight along the way.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t think I’d ever ride in an open-air truck across such dry, wild land—Aruba’s Arikok is nothing like the rest of the island. The air tasted dusty and warm as we bounced past cacti that looked like they belonged in a cartoon. Our guide, Franklin, waved at a guy on horseback and then pointed out these tiny lizards darting under rocks. He joked that if we saw goats on the road, they had right of way. I believed him.

The first real stop was the Natural Pool. It’s tucked behind volcanic rock and you can hear the waves crashing just beyond—louder than I expected. We climbed down to this basin where the water glows turquoise against black stone. I hesitated before jumping in (it looked cold), but wow, it felt good after all that sun. Salt on my lips, hair plastered to my face—I just floated for a while watching little fish zip around my toes. Franklin handed me a snorkel mask and grinned; “Best spot on the island,” he said, and yeah… maybe he’s right.

After drying off in the wind (Aruba never stops blowing), we ducked into a limestone cave with old Arawak drawings scratched into the walls—honestly gave me chills thinking about how long people have been here. There was this pond outside where tiny fish nibbled at our feet—free pedicure, Franklin laughed. Then came Baby Beach: shallow water so clear you could see every ripple over white sand. I tried to snorkel but mostly ended up floating on my back, staring up at clouds drifting by. On the drive back through San Nicolas, murals flashed by—bright faces and birds painted on crumbling walls—and I realized how much color there is here if you just look sideways.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Aruba National Park and Beach

• Enter park and visit visitor center
• Swim in natural seawater pool
• Explore limestone cave and fish pedicure
• Swim in shallow waters at Baby Beach
• Drive through San Nicolas, see murals

Top questions

Is pickup included for this Aruba tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in the tour price.

Do I need to bring my own snorkel gear for Baby Beach?

No, use of snorkeling equipment is provided as part of the tour.

How long does this Aruba Natural Pool & Baby Beach tour last?

The total duration includes travel time; expect a half-day trip.

Are snacks or water provided during the tour?

Yes, bottled water and snacks are included for all guests.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant travelers or those with health issues?

No, it is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular conditions.

What will I see inside Arikok National Park?

You’ll visit volcanic rock pools, limestone caves with ancient drawings, unique desert plants and animals.

Is there an entry fee for Arikok National Park?

No extra fee—the park entrance is covered in your tour price.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off anywhere in Aruba, all national park entry fees taken care of by your local guide Franklin (or someone equally friendly), bottled water to keep you cool under that desert sun, light snacks when hunger hits between stops, plus use of snorkeling equipment so you can dive straight into Baby Beach without packing extra gear.