Dos Playa
A wild, untamed beach in Arikok National Park, famous for its dramatic twin coves and powerful, dangerous surf.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light for photos
Dos Playa
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A wild, untamed beach in Arikok National Park, famous for its dramatic twin coves and powerful, dangerous surf.
"This beach is BREATHTAKING!!! Beautiful blue water and white sand. As the other reviews have stated, this is not a place for swimming."
🚗 4x4 Recommended for Access
Unpaved roads to Dos Playa can be rough. A 4x4 vehicle is best for a smoother journey into Arikok National Park.
🚫 No Swimming Allowed
The ocean here is powerful with strong currents. Enjoy the views, but stay out of the water for your safety.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Twin Coves
Arikok National Park
Two dramatic coves carved into the coastline, offering breathtaking natural beauty and a sense of wild isolation.
Dramatic Coastal Scenery
Shoreline
Rugged cliffs and powerful waves crashing against white sand create a visually stunning and untamed landscape.
Leatherback Turtle Nesting Site
Beach
An important natural habitat for nesting sea turtles, highlighting the area's ecological significance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for a Rugged Arrival
Ocean Safety is Paramount
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 4x4 Recommended for Access
Unpaved roads to Dos Playa can be rough. A 4x4 vehicle is best for a smoother journey into Arikok National Park.
🚫 No Swimming Allowed
The ocean here is powerful with strong currents. Enjoy the views, but stay out of the water for your safety.
🅿️ Strategic Parking
Park on the plateau before the main lot to see both coves. The main lot only offers views of one.
💰 Arikok Park Fee
There's a $22 daily entrance fee for Arikok National Park. Plan accordingly for your visit.
staying at dos playas faranda
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 4x4 Recommended for Access
Unpaved roads to Dos Playa can be rough. A 4x4 vehicle is best for a smoother journey into Arikok National Park.
🚫 No Swimming Allowed
The ocean here is powerful with strong currents. Enjoy the views, but stay out of the water for your safety.
🅿️ Strategic Parking
Park on the plateau before the main lot to see both coves. The main lot only offers views of one.
💰 Arikok Park Fee
There's a $22 daily entrance fee for Arikok National Park. Plan accordingly for your visit.
📸 Best for Photography
The dramatic scenery is perfect for photos, especially during golden hour.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Dos Playa is lauded for its breathtaking, wild beauty and dramatic coastal scenery, offering incredible photo opportunities. However, visitors consistently warn that it is absolutely not a place for swimming due to dangerous waves and strong currents. The rough access roads and park fee are also noted considerations.
"Part of Arikok national Park. $22US daily park fee. Take a left before getting to the Fontaine cave. Don’t park right at the beach. Pull in on the road just before it and park on the plateau. You’ll see both beaches from there. If you go to the parking lot, you’ll only see one. Video taken from parking lot. Photo showing both playas taken from alternate spot."
Laurie Fox
"Stay out of the water here, the surf has changed over the past decade due to forming sand bars which produce converging breaks at the SSW side and a powerful northward current towards the north that pushes you out. Conditions can change in minutes too."
steve
"Very beautiful point and view. Sure do visit as it is very close from many other attractions. When we visited, it was too sunny, so we couldn't get nice pictures. Swimming is not allowed. The sea is too rough."
Abhilasha A Rathi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Dos Playa is located within Arikok National Park. Access is via unpaved, bumpy roads, so a 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended. Some visitors suggest parking on the plateau just before the main beach lot to get a view of both coves, rather than parking directly at the beach.
Yes, Dos Playa is situated within Arikok National Park on Aruba. An entrance fee is required to access the park and its attractions.
The drive involves rough, unpaved roads. A 4x4 vehicle is strongly advised to navigate these conditions safely and comfortably.
Generally, Dos Playa is a wild, undeveloped beach. Don't expect shops or amenities directly at the beach. It's advisable to bring your own water and snacks.
While technically possible, it's not recommended. The unpaved roads can be challenging for standard vehicles, and a 4x4 offers a much safer and more comfortable experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a $22 daily park fee for Arikok National Park, which includes access to Dos Playa and other attractions within the park.
Tickets are for Arikok National Park entry, not specifically for Dos Playa. You can typically pay the park fee upon arrival at the park entrance. It's always a good idea to check the official Arikok National Park website for the most current information.
Dos Playa is accessible during Arikok National Park's operating hours. The park is generally open daily, but it's best to confirm the exact hours on the official park website before your visit.
The $22 fee is typically per vehicle for entry into Arikok National Park, allowing access to various sites including Dos Playa.
Information on potential discounts for seniors, children, or residents is usually available on the Arikok National Park's official website. It's recommended to check there for the most up-to-date details.
🎫 🌊 Onsite Experience
Absolutely not. Swimming at Dos Playa is extremely dangerous due to powerful waves, strong currents, and rip tides. The ocean here is very rough and unforgiving.
Dos Playa is primarily a place for sightseeing and photography. You can explore the dramatic coastline, admire the rock formations, and enjoy the wild beauty. It's also an important nesting site for sea turtles.
Dos Playa is known for its wild and remote feel. While it can attract visitors, it's generally less crowded than more accessible beaches, especially if you visit during off-peak hours.
Bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, and a towel. Comfortable walking shoes are also a good idea for exploring the rocky terrain.
While beautiful, Dos Playa is not suitable for swimming with children due to the dangerous ocean conditions. Families can visit to admire the scenery and learn about the natural environment, but supervision is crucial.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon, during the golden hours, offers the best light for photography. The dramatic coastal scenery is particularly stunning with the warm, soft light.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal views. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance the blues of the ocean and sky. A sturdy tripod can be useful for long exposures if you're shooting during sunrise or sunset.
The two coves themselves are the main attraction. Parking on the plateau before the main lot allows you to capture both coves in one frame, which is a popular viewpoint.
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check the latest rules and regulations for flying drones within Arikok National Park before your visit to ensure compliance.
The combination of rugged cliffs, white sand, powerful turquoise waves, and the dramatic rock formations makes Dos Playa incredibly photogenic. Its wild, untouched nature adds to its appeal.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Accessing Dos Playa requires navigating unpaved roads, so a sturdy vehicle is recommended. Consider packing plenty of snacks and water, as there are no facilities at the beach. The park entrance fee also applies. It's a great spot for a scenic stop and a picnic, but not for a typical beach day involving swimming.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The best times for photography are during the golden hours – early morning and late afternoon – when the light is soft and warm, enhancing the natural colors. A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the expansive coastal vistas. Be prepared for the elements; the sea spray can be significant, so protect your gear. Remember that swimming is prohibited, so focus on the stunning landscapes and the raw beauty of the coastline.
🚗 Adventure Seekers
Once there, the adventure continues with exploring the dramatic coastline and witnessing the raw power of the ocean. While swimming is off-limits, the rugged beauty and the sense of being in a remote, natural environment offer a unique adventure. It's a place to connect with nature's untamed side, far from the usual tourist crowds.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating to Dos Playa
The drive is part of the experience, offering glimpses of Aruba's wilder side. Take your time, enjoy the scenery, and be prepared for a bumpy ride. The effort is well worth it for the secluded beauty that awaits. The park's natural landscape is a key part of the allure, so embrace the journey as much as the destination.
The Dangers of the Water
Instead of swimming, visitors are encouraged to enjoy the beach by exploring the shoreline, feeling the spray of the waves from a safe distance, or simply relaxing on the sand. The raw power of the ocean is part of what makes Dos Playa so dramatic and visually striking. Respecting the ocean's might is paramount to a safe and enjoyable visit.
Ecological Significance
While the beach is open for exploration, it's essential to be mindful of the environment. Visitors should stick to designated paths and avoid disturbing the natural habitat. The presence of these turtles underscores the need for responsible tourism and the preservation of Dos Playa's wild, untouched character. It's a reminder that we are guests in a delicate ecosystem.
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