Druif Beach

Druif Beach is a long, oval-shaped stretch of ivory sand on Aruba's west coast, on the Oranjestad side of the Eagle Beach stretch and in front of casual low-rise resorts. The Aruba Tourism Authority describes the water as relatively calm and clear and the beach as quiet despite being close to downtown; Wikipedia gives its length as about 300 metres. It suits swimmers, families and anyone who wants Eagle Beach's setting with a little less going on.

Where is Druif Beach?

It lies on the west coast, a short drive from downtown Oranjestad and continuing into Eagle Beach. One travel magazine says the two are separated by the small Punto Brabo peninsula, and the tourism authority notes that Druif connects directly to the neighbouring sands, so in practice you can walk from one to the other along the shore. The name comes from the sea grape trees (druif is Dutch for grape) that once grew there. Coordinates from OpenStreetMap: 12.5340, -70.0574. The wider area is described in Eagle Beach & Druif.

Is Druif Beach good for swimming?

Usually yes. The Aruba Tourism Authority describes calm, clear water suitable for swimming and aqua jogging, and the west coast faces away from the trade wind, which is why it is far gentler than the north and east coasts. It is still open sea: swim within your depth and keep children within arm's reach. Water sports run in the area, both motorised and non-motorised; a travel article notes that motorised sports are banned in front of the beach bar, so look for where swimmers and boats are separated before you go in.

What facilities does Druif Beach have?

The tourism authority lists beach huts (palapas), beach chairs and a beach volleyball court, with resort rooms and restaurants a short walk from the sand. Public transport is listed as an amenity without details, and the page says nothing about parking, so do not assume there is a car park at the beach; the tourism authority's page for neighbouring Eagle Beach mentions ample public parking. Within about a mile there are beach and baby-equipment rentals, a fitness club, a car rental agency, a yoga and Pilates studio and a restaurant and bar.

What is there to see and do?

• Swimming and aqua jogging in the calm water.
• Pelicans. The tourism authority mentions pelicans roosting on poles in the water, a regular sight for anyone looking out from the beach.
• Beach volleyball on the court.
• A long walk along the sand towards Eagle Beach, where most of the island's sea turtle nests are found; keep clear of any marked nest.
• Sunsets, because this coast faces west.

Who is Druif Beach best for?

The tourism authority recommends it for day-long beach outings, water sports and swimming, for active sun-lovers and for visitors who want a quiet, relaxing spot; the nearby rental of baby equipment also makes it practical for families. For more space and public palapas, head along the coast to Eagle Beach; for a town beach with shallow water close to the airport, see Surfside Beach. Families can find more ideas in Aruba with kids, and the best months for beach days are covered in Aruba in November and the best time to visit guide.

What do visitors misjudge?

• Shade and seats. Beach huts and chairs are listed, but there is no guarantee one will be free; carry an umbrella or hat.
• The sun. Aruba sits at about 12.5° north, and white sand reflects strong light; use sunscreen and water.
• Turtle nests next door. Never step inside a barricaded nest area, and keep lights off at night on the beach.