Spanish Lagoon
Aruba's protected Spanish Lagoon offers serene mangrove exploration, abundant birdlife, and a glimpse into the island's gold mining past.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better wildlife viewing
Spanish Lagoon
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better wildlife viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Aruba's protected Spanish Lagoon offers serene mangrove exploration, abundant birdlife, and a glimpse into the island's gold mining past.
"Amazing place for take pictures and recreation."
Park at the Mill Ruins
Park near the Balashi Gold Ruins to access hiking trails leading down to the lagoon. :car:
Kayak the Mangroves
Experience the serene beauty of the mangroves by kayak for an up-close encounter with nature. :kayak:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mangrove Exploration
Spanish Lagoon
Kayak or paddleboard through serene mangrove forests, a vital ecosystem teeming with marine life and coastal birds.
Balashi Gold Ruins
Near Spanish Lagoon
Explore the remnants of Aruba's gold mining history, offering a glimpse into the island's past and scenic views.
Birdwatching Paradise
Spanish Lagoon
Spot diverse bird species, including Arubian owls and herons, amidst the natural beauty of the lagoon and its surroundings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Spanish Lagoon
Getting to Spanish Lagoon
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Park at the Mill Ruins
Park near the Balashi Gold Ruins to access hiking trails leading down to the lagoon. :car:
Kayak the Mangroves
Experience the serene beauty of the mangroves by kayak for an up-close encounter with nature. :kayak:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Sturdy footwear is recommended for exploring the trails and ruins. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Your Camera
Spanish Lagoon is a fantastic spot for photography, with unique landscapes and wildlife. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Park at the Mill Ruins
Park near the Balashi Gold Ruins to access hiking trails leading down to the lagoon. :car:
Kayak the Mangroves
Experience the serene beauty of the mangroves by kayak for an up-close encounter with nature. :kayak:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Sturdy footwear is recommended for exploring the trails and ruins. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Your Camera
Spanish Lagoon is a fantastic spot for photography, with unique landscapes and wildlife. :camerawithflash:
Consider a Boat Tour
Many tours offer access to Spanish Lagoon with activities like snorkeling and rope-swinging. :boat:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Spanish Lagoon for its natural beauty, serene mangrove exploration, and opportunities for birdwatching. The nearby Balashi Gold Ruins add a historical dimension. While access can involve a hike or boat tour, the unique ecosystem and scenic views make it a worthwhile stop for nature lovers and photographers.
"Cool place to stop and enjoy the view. You need to park at the Mill Ruins. You can even take a hike / walk down along the lagoon stream."
Honey Nett
"Pretty interesting. Fair amout to see. Also saw some wild goats around the lagoon."
Hendricks Window Cleaning
"Great place to hike just a few miles from Oranjestad. We saw Arubian owls and a Heron, mangroves and more birds"
Ray Hunte
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Spanish Lagoon is accessible by parking near the Balashi Gold Ruins and taking a hike down, or more commonly, via boat tours that cruise along the south coast. Some visitors arrive by car and explore the surrounding areas.
While it's a protected natural gem, signage might be limited. Following directions to the Balashi Gold Ruins is a good starting point for land access. Boat tours provide direct access.
Direct driving access to the lagoon itself is limited. Parking is typically available near the Balashi Gold Ruins, from where you can hike down.
Options include driving to the nearby Balashi Gold Ruins and hiking, or booking a boat tour that includes Spanish Lagoon as a stop.
Yes, Spanish Lagoon is a great option for a half-day trip from Oranjestad, especially when combined with visits to nearby attractions like the Gold Ruins.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Spanish Lagoon itself is generally free as it's a natural area. However, if you visit via a boat tour, you will need to purchase tickets for the tour.
As a natural lagoon, there are no official opening hours. It's best visited during daylight hours for safety and to enjoy the scenery and wildlife.
The lagoon itself is free to access. Fees would apply if you choose to participate in organized activities like kayaking tours or boat excursions.
Absolutely! Many luxury cruise and snorkeling tours in Aruba include Spanish Lagoon as a destination, offering various activities. 
Information on specific entry fees for the Balashi Gold Ruins can vary. It's advisable to check locally or with tour operators if you plan to visit them as part of your trip.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy kayaking through the mangroves, birdwatching, hiking around the area, and taking in the scenic views. Boat tours often include snorkeling and rope-swinging. +1
While the lagoon itself is more for mangrove exploration, many boat tours departing from or passing by Spanish Lagoon offer snorkeling opportunities in nearby waters.
Spanish Lagoon is a haven for wildlife, including baby fish in the mangroves, crabs, various coastal birds like herons and owls, and sometimes even sea turtles.
Yes, families can enjoy the natural beauty. Kayaking in the calm waters and observing wildlife can be engaging for children. Ensure supervision, especially near water.
Kayaking through the mangrove channels offers an intimate experience. For a broader perspective and access to activities, a boat tour is highly recommended.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the unique mangrove roots, the clear waters, diverse birdlife, and the historic Balashi Gold Ruins. Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting.
Absolutely! It's a prime spot for capturing coastal birds, marine life within the mangroves, and the serene natural landscape of Aruba.
Early morning or late afternoon provides the best natural light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and enhancing colors.
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check current local laws and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in protected areas like Spanish Lagoon.
The trails around the lagoon and the elevated areas near the Balashi Gold Ruins offer excellent vantage points for panoramic shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a family-friendly boat tour that includes Spanish Lagoon. These tours often provide a safe and engaging way to experience the area, with activities like guided snorkeling or gentle cruising that cater to various ages. The nearby Balashi Gold Ruins also offer a touch of history that can spark curiosity.
🌿 Nature & Wildlife Enthusiasts
Birdwatchers will be delighted by the variety of species, including owls and herons. The lagoon's role as a nursery for marine life makes it a dynamic environment to observe. Remember to bring binoculars and a good camera to capture the incredible biodiversity.
📸 Photographers
Aim for the golden hours – early morning or late afternoon – for the most dramatic and beautiful lighting. The reflections in the calm lagoon waters can create stunning photographic opportunities.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Mangroves of Spanish Lagoon
When exploring the mangroves, keep an eye out for baby fish darting between the roots, curious crabs scuttling along the muddy banks, and a variety of coastal birds. The clear waters often reveal the underwater world, making it a fascinating spot for nature lovers. Ecotours Aruba highlights that this isn't just water, but 'life in motion,' emphasizing the dynamic ecosystem.
For the best experience, consider a guided kayak tour. Local guides can point out hidden wildlife and share insights into the ecological importance of the mangroves. This approach also ensures you navigate the channels safely and respectfully, preserving this delicate environment for future visitors.
A Glimpse into Aruba's Past: Balashi Gold Ruins
These ruins provide a stark contrast to the natural beauty of the lagoon, offering a unique dual experience for visitors. The elevated position of the ruins also provides scenic views of the surrounding landscape, making it a popular spot for photography. Some visitors have even reported seeing wild goats in the vicinity of the ruins, adding an unexpected element to the exploration.
Accessing the lagoon often involves parking near the Gold Ruins, making it a convenient starting point for a combined visit. The hike down from the ruins to the lagoon is relatively short and offers a pleasant walk through the arid Aruban terrain.
Birdwatching and Wildlife Encounters
The protected waters of the lagoon serve as a vital breeding ground and feeding area for many species. The mangrove roots provide shelter for juvenile fish, which in turn attract larger birds and marine predators. If you're lucky, you might even spot a sea turtle gliding through the waters.
For the best wildlife viewing opportunities, plan your visit during the early morning or late afternoon when birds are most active. Bringing binoculars can greatly enhance your experience, allowing you to observe these creatures from a respectful distance without disturbing their natural behavior.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit