Hadicurari Beach (Fisherman's Huts)

Hadicurari Beach, better known as Fisherman's Huts or simply "the Huts", is a rocky strip of shore just north of the Palm Beach hotels, past the Marriott, and the centre of windsurfing and kitesurfing on Aruba. The Aruba Tourism Authority calls it the most popular spot on the island to learn and practise both sports, with many schools based on the beach. Each year in June or July it hosts the Aruba Hi-Winds, the largest windsurfing event in the Caribbean.

Why is it called Fisherman's Huts?

The beach was once home to the island's fishermen, and the name comes from the small huts they built here. Today the huts are joined by the stands of wind- and kitesurf schools, paddleboard rentals and other non-motorised water sports.

Is Hadicurari good for windsurfing and kitesurfing?

Yes, for learners and improvers above all. The tourism authority notes that the water is very shallow and calm, so beginners can stand up, fall and restart without being swept away, while the steady trade wind blows across the bay. Lessons and equipment rental are available on the beach; if you have never kited, take a lesson rather than launching alone, as kites are powerful and the beach is busy. Aruban windsurfer Sarah-Quita Offringa, a multiple freestyle world champion, trains in these waters when she is not touring. See windsurfing and kitesurfing for how the sports work in Aruba.

Is it safe for swimming?

The shallow, calm water makes it popular with local families and children. The real hazard is traffic: boards and kites move fast and kite lines can cut. Swim and paddle close to the shore and away from the launch areas, keep children within sight, and never walk under or between kite lines on the sand. The shoreline is also partly rocky, so water shoes help.

When can you watch the kites?

The kites come out whenever the trade wind is blowing, which on Aruba is most days, though its strength varies with the season. Check the weather page and the best time to visit guide before planning lessons around it. During the Aruba Hi-Winds in June or July the beach becomes a festival site with races and spectators.

What is nearby?

Palm Beach begins just to the south, with its bars, piers and calmer swimming; Malmok and Arashi lie a few minutes north. The Arubus L10A line has a stop named "Fisherman's Hut – Hadicurari".