Aruba: Private Shore Snorkel Tour & Sea Turtle Spots

Summary

Aruba private snorkel adventure with sea turtles and coral reefs guided by locals

You’ll wade straight into Aruba’s blue water with a local guide who knows where sea turtles hang out and how to keep things eco-friendly. Expect two unique snorkel stops chosen for your group, plus fresh fruit, all your gear (even reef-safe sunscreen), underwater photos—and maybe a story or two you’ll remember later.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest—I was a little nervous about snorkeling in Aruba without a boat. But our guide, Daniel, met us right at the sand with this big easy smile and a cooler full of cold water. He handed out fins (he’d actually asked for our shoe sizes ahead of time—never had that happen before) and some mineral sunscreen that smelled kind of like oatmeal cookies. I liked that he talked about why we weren’t using a boat—something about the engines scaring away turtles and fish. It made sense once we waded in. The water was so clear I could see my own toes wriggling in the sand.

The first spot was quiet except for the sound of our own breathing through the snorkels and Daniel pointing out these little flashes of color darting between rocks. I didn’t expect to see so many fish so close to shore—or to feel so calm floating there, just bobbing with the current. Then suddenly Daniel tapped my arm (I jumped a bit), and there it was—a sea turtle gliding by like it owned the place. I probably grinned too wide behind my mask. He snapped a photo underwater; I still look at it sometimes when I need a mood boost.

We moved to another reef after that, walking along the beach with our gear dripping everywhere. The sun felt warm but not sharp—maybe it was just the breeze or maybe because we kept stopping to laugh at each other’s mask marks. Daniel sliced up some fruit while we dried off, telling us how he grew up swimming here and how things have changed since more people started coming to Aruba for snorkeling tours. He seemed proud but also careful—like he really wanted us to love this place without hurting it. I get that now.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private snorkel tour with two stops

• Meet eco-conscious local guide
• Receive fins after sending shoe sizes
• Snorkel first location from shore
• Snorkel second location from shore
• Spot sea turtles and coral reefs

Top questions

Is this Aruba snorkel tour really private?

Yes, this is a completely private snorkel tour for your group only.

Do you use a boat for the snorkeling trip?

No boats are used; all snorkeling is accessed from shore to protect marine life.

Will I see sea turtles during this Aruba snorkeling tour?

Your chances are high—guides report seeing 1-20 turtles on every trip since 2019—but sightings aren’t guaranteed.

What’s included in this private snorkel tour?

You get all snorkel equipment, reef-safe mineral sunscreen, towels, cold drinking water in reusable containers, fresh fruit, underwater photos, and a private guide.

How long does each Aruba snorkeling stop last?

This half-day trip includes two stops; timing depends on your pace and comfort level.

Can beginners join this Aruba snorkeling tour?

Yes! Sites are chosen based on your group’s skill level and conditions that day.

Is pickup included in this Aruba snorkel experience?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; you meet your guide at the designated beach location.

What’s included

Your day includes all snorkeling equipment fitted to your size (just send shoe sizes after booking), reef-safe mineral sunscreen, towels for drying off after each swim, cold drinking water in reusable containers (no plastic here), sweet fresh fruit served beachside by your guide, plus underwater pictures taken during both stops—all led by an experienced local who shares stories along the way.