Malmok Beach
A rocky Aruban gem offering incredible shore snorkeling with sea turtles and breathtaking sunset views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calmer waters, better visibility
Malmok Beach
Best Time
Calmer waters, better visibility
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A rocky Aruban gem offering incredible shore snorkeling with sea turtles and breathtaking sunset views.
"This is by far the best snorkel spot we found on our visit to Aruba."
🥾 Wear Water Shoes
Essential for navigating the rocky entry and exit. Protect your feet and enjoy the water more!
🐢 Swim for Turtles
Head about 100 yards offshore for the best chance to see sea turtles.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sea Turtle Encounters
Offshore
Swim out a short distance to witness majestic sea turtles in their natural habitat. They often swim close by, unafraid of visitors.
Crystal Clear Waters
The entire beach
Experience incredibly clear turquoise waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling, offering excellent visibility.
Rocky Shoreline Charm
Beachfront
Unique rocky terrain creates a picturesque setting, with some built-in umbrella tables for shade.
Sunset Views
Western horizon
Malmok Beach offers a perfect vantage point to enjoy breathtaking sunset views over the Caribbean Sea.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for Rocky Terrain
Snorkeling Success Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Water Shoes
Essential for navigating the rocky entry and exit. Protect your feet and enjoy the water more!
🐢 Swim for Turtles
Head about 100 yards offshore for the best chance to see sea turtles.
🤿 Bring Snorkel Gear
Malmok is a top shore-snorkeling spot with clear water and abundant fish.
☀️ Seek Shade Early
Limited natural shade; utilize the built-in umbrella tables if you arrive early.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Water Shoes
Essential for navigating the rocky entry and exit. Protect your feet and enjoy the water more!
🐢 Swim for Turtles
Head about 100 yards offshore for the best chance to see sea turtles.
🤿 Bring Snorkel Gear
Malmok is a top shore-snorkeling spot with clear water and abundant fish.
☀️ Seek Shade Early
Limited natural shade; utilize the built-in umbrella tables if you arrive early.
🚗 Rent a Car
Convenient for exploring Malmok and nearby beaches like Arashi.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Malmok Beach is highly praised for its exceptional snorkeling, particularly for the chance to see sea turtles in crystal-clear waters. Visitors appreciate the natural beauty and the stunning sunset views. However, the rocky entry and lack of amenities are noted drawbacks.
"This is by far the best snorkel spot we found on our visit to Aruba. We stuck to spots we could swim to; we did not do any of the excursions during our stay. There is a shallow shipwreck a few hundred yards off the coast of Malmok that some of the tours were stopping at, but it was way too far out to swim to.
The way into the water is shallow, slick, and pretty hard on the feet. Swim shoes are a massive help. The sand is a little rocky at the water, too. The waves knocked us around a bit while we were getting out. You'll probably be better off tossing your fins up on the sand so you have your hands free.
There was not a wide variety of ocean life there, but there was a lot of what few fish we found. We went there one evening and enjoyed it enough to go back the next morning. The differing times didn't seem to really matter as far as the variety of fish we found. The water seemed a tad cooler earlier in the day, though.
If you're in Aruba to snorkel then this may be the best place you can get to from the shore."
Brian Poe
"Great place to hang out and sight see but no good access for swimming and snorkeling."
T A
"If you’re looking to see some turtles this is the place to visit. Just a small swim 100 yards straight out and they will be waiting for a visit. It was even cool to watch them come up for air, they swim right up beside you not even worried. I suggest grabbing some type of float or even easier pool noddle just to make life easier when swimming out. Especially if the water starts to get a little ruff you keep yourself safe out in the water."
Chris Frias
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Malmok Beach is located on the northwestern tip of Aruba. The easiest way to get there is by renting a car, which offers flexibility to explore the island and nearby beaches like Arashi. Taxis are also available, but can be more expensive for longer stays.
Yes, there is typically parking available near Malmok Beach, though it can fill up during peak times. Arriving earlier in the day is advisable.
If you are staying in the northern part of Aruba, like near Arashi Beach, it might be walkable, but it's a considerable distance. Renting a car or taking a taxi is generally more practical.
Renting a car is highly recommended for easy access and the freedom to explore. Taxis are an option, but consider the cost for extended visits. Some guided tours also include Malmok Beach.
Public transport options to Malmok Beach are limited. It's best to rely on a rental car, taxi, or organized tour for convenient access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Malmok Beach is a public beach and does not have an entrance fee. You can visit and enjoy its natural beauty for free.
Malmok Beach is accessible at all hours, as it is a natural public space. However, for safety and the best experience, visiting during daylight hours is recommended.
No booking is required for Malmok Beach as it is a public beach. You can visit anytime without prior reservation.
There are no specific entry restrictions for Malmok Beach. However, it's important to respect the natural environment and follow any posted guidelines.
Absolutely! Malmok Beach is a fantastic destination for a day trip, offering excellent snorkeling, relaxation, and beautiful scenery.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
For the best snorkeling, swim about 100 yards straight out from shore. You'll find clearer water and a higher chance of seeing sea turtles and diverse fish. Consider using a float for comfort.
Malmok Beach is known for its sea turtles and a variety of colorful fish. While the variety might not be extensive, the abundance of the fish you do see is impressive.
While the water is clear and beautiful, the rocky entry can make swimming challenging for some. It's best suited for snorkelers and those comfortable with a rocky shoreline.
Malmok Beach is a natural beach with limited facilities. There are no public restrooms or showers directly on the beach. It's advisable to come prepared.
The morning offers soft light for photography, while late afternoon provides a golden glow. The sunsets here are also spectacular and perfect for capturing memorable shots.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Malmok Beach itself does not have restaurants or food vendors. You'll need to bring your own snacks and drinks or travel to nearby areas for dining options.
The Malmok Beach area is primarily residential and natural. For dining, you'll need to drive a short distance to areas like Palm Beach or Eagle Beach, which offer a wide range of restaurants and bars.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks to Malmok Beach. It's a great idea to pack a picnic to enjoy during your visit.
No, Malmok Beach is a more natural and less developed beach, so there are no beach bars directly on site.
The nearby areas of Palm Beach and Eagle Beach offer a diverse culinary scene, including international, local Aruban, seafood, and casual beachside dining.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the stunning turquoise waters, the unique rocky coastline, and the vibrant marine life while snorkeling. The sunsets here are also incredibly photogenic.
Yes, drone footage of Malmok Beach can be spectacular, showcasing the clear waters, coastline, and surrounding vegetation. Always check local drone regulations before flying.
Early mornings offer soft, beautiful light, while late afternoons provide a warm, golden glow. Sunsets are a must-capture moment.
While there isn't one single landmark, the natural beauty of the rocky shore meeting the clear blue sea is the main photographic draw. You might also capture the shipwreck if you venture further out.
A waterproof camera or phone case is highly recommended for capturing underwater shots while snorkeling. A wide-angle lens can be great for landscapes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing floatation devices like pool noodles or small inflatable rafts to help kids (and adults!) navigate the water more easily, especially if the waves are up.
🐠 Snorkel Enthusiasts
While the rocky entry requires caution, it's a small price to pay for the incredible underwater experience. Bringing your own snorkeling gear is essential, and consider packing a float or noodle for added buoyancy and comfort during longer snorkeling sessions.
🌅 Sunset Chasers
Find a comfortable spot on the rocky shore or near the water's edge to witness the sky transform into a palette of warm colors. It's an ideal location for a romantic evening or a quiet moment of reflection. While there are no dedicated sunset bars, the natural beauty is the main attraction.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Snorkeling Paradise: What to Expect
While the underwater visibility is excellent, the entry into the water can be a bit challenging due to the rocky and sometimes slick terrain. Many visitors strongly recommend wearing water shoes to protect your feet and provide better grip.
For those looking for a unique underwater sight, there's a shallow shipwreck a few hundred yards offshore. However, it's generally too far to swim to for most visitors, so it's typically only accessible via boat tours.
Navigating the Rocky Shores
To enhance your comfort and safety, water shoes are a highly recommended item to pack. They provide essential grip and protection against sharp edges or uneven surfaces.
Despite the rocky nature, Malmok Beach offers some conveniences. You'll find four built-in umbrella tables integrated into the rocks and sand. Arriving early gives you a good chance to claim one of these spots, offering a welcome bit of shade from the Aruban sun.
The Appeal of Malmok Beach for Sunset Lovers
The relatively undeveloped nature of Malmok Beach, compared to some of Aruba's more bustling tourist hubs, allows for an unobstructed view of the sunset. The gentle lapping of waves against the rocky shore provides a serene soundtrack to the visual display. It’s an ideal setting for couples seeking a romantic evening or for anyone wanting to end their day with a moment of tranquility and natural beauty.
While there are no specific sunset viewing platforms, simply finding a comfortable spot on the shore or near the rocky outcrops will offer a fantastic vantage point. The clear skies often seen in Aruba further enhance the vividness of the sunset, making it a memorable experience for all who visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit