Mangel Halto

Mangel Halto sits on Aruba's leeward south coast, sheltered from the wind and swell that batter the north, and it is a favourite of islanders rather than a resort beach. Small sandy clearings among the mangroves give access to calm, clear water, and wooden steps and platforms let you get in past the roots. Just offshore the seagrass and shallow reef teem with fish, and a short swim out brings you to the edge of a reef wall that drops away, which makes it one of the better shore-snorkelling and shore-diving spots on the island. The mangroves themselves are a nursery for young fish and a nice contrast to the arid interior. It is peaceful, shaded in patches, and free.

What you actually see

• The snorkelling reef - shallow coral and fish close to shore, with a wall a short swim out.
• The mangrove channels - sheltered clearings and the roots that nurse young fish.
• Shore diving - a popular easy-entry dive site off the same beach.
• The calm south coast - a contrast to the windward north side of the island.

When to go

Year-round; the south coast is sheltered and calm most of the time. Mornings usually have the clearest water before boat traffic and afternoon breeze stir things up. Weekends bring local families.

Honest expectations

This is a natural cove, not a serviced beach: facilities are minimal, the entry is over roots and rock rather than soft sand, and water shoes help a lot. The reef wall drops into deeper water and current can pick up, so it suits confident swimmers and snorkellers more than small children. Boat traffic offshore means staying aware of your surroundings.

Nearby

Savaneta and the fishing-village restaurants are close; the Spanish Lagoon and Arikok lie nearby.