Black Stone Beach

Black Stone Beach, or Boca Keto, is a cove on Aruba's north coast where the shoreline is covered not in sand but in smooth black stones, rounded by the surf and running back from the water in a bank. The rock is volcanic, from the older basement geology that underlies the island's limestone cap, and the contrast between the black stones, the white surf and the pale cliffs is why photographers make the effort to get there. A small natural arch stands at one end. It is inside Arikok, reached by rough track, and it is almost always empty because the drive puts people off.

What you actually see

• The black stones - smooth volcanic cobbles instead of sand.
• The small arch - a natural bridge at one end of the cove.
• The surf - breaking hard on the stones with a distinctive rattle.
• The emptiness - almost nobody makes the drive.

When to go

Year-round. Mornings are cooler for the drive and walk. The track is rough and requires four-wheel drive or a guided tour. The park is open through the day with set closing hours.

Honest expectations

Do not swim: the surf on this coast is heavy, the stones move underfoot in the backwash and the current is strong. The stones are protected and must not be taken. The track is rough and hire agreements often exclude it. There is no shade, no water and no facilities.

Nearby

Dos Playa is along the coast; the Natural Pool is further east.