Aruba: Sea Glass Island Kayak Tour & Beach Treasure Hunt

Summary

Sea glass hunting by kayak in Aruba with local stories and beach time

You’ll kayak along Aruba’s coast with a local guide, searching for sea turtles as you paddle toward Sea Glass Island. Spend time combing the beach for colorful sea glass, listen to stories from your guide, and relax with included drinks before heading back across crystal waters. It’s a simple adventure that leaves you smiling longer than expected.

What’s the experience like?

“You see that green piece?” Ericko asked, pointing at something glinting between the pebbles. I’d barely caught my breath from paddling — it’s really just five or ten minutes from shore, but the water is so clear you keep getting distracted looking for turtles. We’d all laughed when one of us nearly tipped over trying to snap a photo. The sun was already warm on our backs, even though it wasn’t even 9am yet.

I didn’t expect Sea Glass Island to feel so quiet. Just the soft crunch of sand under our water shoes and the sound of little waves slapping at the kayaks. Ericko handed out these tiny rakes (honestly, I thought they were toys at first) and showed us how to sift through the top layer for bits of blue and amber glass. He told us about growing up nearby — apparently his grandma used to collect here too, long before anyone called it a “tour.” There’s something oddly peaceful about crouching down, hands in cool sand, not really talking much except to compare what we found. I still think about that.

We stayed maybe two hours? Time goes fast when you’re busy filling your pockets with colors you never see at home. At some point I realized my bottle of Powerade was almost gone — salty air makes you thirsty without noticing. A couple people tried to pronounce “Arashi” like locals do; Ericko just grinned and shook his head (I definitely butchered it). The paddle back felt easier somehow, or maybe we were just happy and sun-tired.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Kayak and explore Sea Glass Island

• Meet at the tour starting point
• Receive safety briefing
• Put on water shoes
• Kayak 5-8 minutes to Sea Glass Island
• Spot sea turtles along the way
• Explore island and collect sea glass
• Enjoy complimentary Powerade and water
• Kayak back to starting point

Top questions

How long is the kayak ride to Sea Glass Island?

The kayak ride takes about 5-8 minutes each way along Aruba’s coast.

Is transportation to the meeting point included?

No, transportation to the meeting point is not included in this tour.

What should I bring for the Sea Glass Island Aruba tour?

You need water shoes. All other equipment like life jackets and rakes are provided.

Are drinks provided during the tour?

Yes, each guest gets a bottle of Powerade and a bottle of water included.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant travelers?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with certain health conditions.

Can I book a different departure time?

Yes, if 8:30 AM doesn’t work for you, you can contact them to arrange another time.

Is there insurance or safety coverage on this tour?

Yes, this is the only licensed kayak tour to Sea Glass Island with insurance and regular safety checks.

What’s included

Your day includes all kayaking equipment like life jackets and small hand rakes for treasure hunting on Sea Glass Island, plus a bottle of Powerade and water per person—just remember your own water shoes since those aren’t provided. Transportation isn’t included but flexible start times can be arranged if you ask ahead.