Surfside Beach, Aruba: The Complete Guide to Calm Water, Restaurants, Families, and More
Surfside Beach is a convenient and relaxing beach near downtown Oranjestad and the airport. With calm water, nearby restaurants, and a more local city-beach feel, it is a great option for visitors who want an easy beach stop without going far.
This beach is especially useful for families, travelers staying near Oranjestad, or anyone looking for a calm beach close to dining and city attractions.
If you are planning your Aruba vacation, you may also want to explore our best beaches in Aruba guide.
Why Surfside Beach Is So Popular
Surfside Beach is popular because it is easy to reach, calm, and close to restaurants and Oranjestad. It offers a relaxed beach experience without requiring a long drive or full beach-day commitment.
Where Is Surfside Beach?
Surfside Beach is located near Oranjestad and close to Aruba’s airport. Its location makes it a practical choice for a first beach stop, a final beach visit before departure, or a casual afternoon near town.
What Surfside Beach Is Like
Surfside Beach has calm water and a relaxed city-beach atmosphere. It is not as dramatic or wide as Eagle Beach, and it is not as lively as Palm Beach, but it is convenient, comfortable, and easy to enjoy.
Looking for a place to stay in Aruba!
Surfside Beach is a great reminder that Aruba has beautiful beach options across the island, from quiet local spots to famous white-sand destinations.
Is Surfside Beach Good for Families?
Yes. Surfside Beach is known for calm, shallow water, making it a comfortable beach option for families and relaxed swimmers.
Best Things to Do at Surfside Beach
- swimming in calm water
- relaxing near Oranjestad
- enjoying nearby restaurants
- walking along the waterfront
- visiting before or after airport travel
Make the Most of Your Aruba Beach Days
Surfside Beach is convenient and calm, while beaches like Eagle Beach, Palm Beach, Arashi Beach, and Baby Beach each offer a different experience.
Final Thoughts
Surfside Beach is a great choice for travelers who want calm water, easy access, and a beach close to Oranjestad. It is practical, pleasant, and especially useful if you want a relaxed beach stop near town.
Best Beaches by Activity
Families and Kids: Baby Beach, Eagle Beach- Relaxing/Secluded: Manchebo Beach, Santo Largo
- Windsurfing/Kitesurfing: Boca Grandi
- Snorkeling: Arashi Beach, Mangel Halto and Boca Catalina
Families and Kids: Baby Beach, Eagle Beach
Relaxing/Secluded: Manchebo Beach, Santo Largo
Windsurfing/Kitesurfing: Boca Grandi
Snorkeling: Arashi Beach, Mangel Halto and Boca CatalinaExplore other Beaches of Aruba
Arashi Beach: A quieter, white-sand beach located near the California Lighthouse, popular for snorkeling and sunsets.
Eagle Beach: Consistently ranked among the world’s top beaches, Eagle Beach is known for its soft white sand, broad shoreline, and distinctive fofoti trees.
Surfside Beach: Located in Oranjestad near the airport and downtown, Surfside Beach features shallow water and unique views of planes passing overhead.
Rodgers Beach: Close to Baby Beach, Rodgers Beach is a quiet, less crowded spot with calm, crystal-clear water favored by locals.
Tres Tapi: This small cove is often considered a hidden gem, known for its sea turtle sightings and access via carved stone steps.
Baby Beach: Located on the southeastern tip of the island, this shallow, sheltered lagoon is especially well suited for families, young children, and first-time snorkelers.
Boca Grandi: Situated on Aruba’s east coast, Boca Grandi is a top choice for kitesurfing and windsurfing thanks to its stronger winds and rougher waves.
Rennaissance Island: This private island, accessible to hotel guests or by day pass, is best known for its exclusive atmosphere and famous flamingos.
DePalm Island: Part of the all-inclusive De Palm Island experience, this beach offers calm, clear water, a relaxed resort-style setting, and easy access to snorkeling, water activities, and family-friendly attractions.