Wariruri Bay
A rocky windward cove on the north coast, used by surfers when the swell runs.
Updated 3 September 2026
Wariruri is a cove on Aruba's northern windward coast, a stretch of coarse sand between rock with the Atlantic coming in and enough of a break in the right conditions that it is the island's surf spot. Cliffs and scrub back it and nothing is built there. When the swell is down the cove is calm enough to enter, though the current is always working. The whole northern coast is exposed limestone and this is one of only a handful of places with sand at all.
The landscape
- The break - the wave that makes this the island's surf cove.
- The rocky cove - coarse sand between rock on the windward shore.
- The cliffs and scrub - the dry ground backing the bay.
- The emptiness - a coast with nothing built on it.
When to go
December to April brings the swell that makes the surf work. The windward coast is rough year round. Trade winds are constant.
What to expect
The current and shore break are dangerous and the cove has a bad reputation for it. There is no shade and no facilities. The track down is rough.
Nearby
The Alto Vista chapel is west, and the California lighthouse is northwest.
What to pack for Wariruri Bay
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
- Broken-in walking shoes or boots - Grip and ankle support matter more than looks; never hike in brand-new boots. Find on Amazon
- Quick-dry clothing - Board shorts or synthetics that shrug off spray and dry fast. Find on Amazon
- Layers + a waterproof shell - Mountain weather turns fast; a packable rain jacket saves the day. Find on Amazon
- Secure water shoes or reef boots - Grip on slippery launches and protection on rocky shores. Find on Amazon
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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
