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Tres Trapi: Where to See Sea Turtles in Aruba
If seeing a sea turtle is on your Aruba list, Tres Trapi is the place people point you to. It’s a small stretch of rocky coast on the northwest side of the island, between Malmok and Arashi.
Why it’s called Tres Trapi
“Tres trapi” means “three steps” in Papiamento, Aruba’s local language. It’s named after the steps cut into the rock that lead down to the water from shore.
The turtles
Sea turtles come to this coast to feed, and Tres Trapi has a reputation as the number one spot on the island to swim with them. Wildlife is never guaranteed, but your odds here are as good as anywhere in Aruba.
How to visit respectfully
- Keep your distance. Don’t chase, touch or block a turtle’s path to the surface.
- Use reef-safe sunscreen. Aruba has restricted sunscreens containing oxybenzone.
- Don’t stand on rocks or coral.
Shore or boat?
You can snorkel Tres Trapi from shore, but the entry is over rock and steps, which isn’t easy for kids or older travelers. The easier way is by boat: the clear boat stops at Tres Trapi along with the Antilla wreck and Boca Catalina, with snorkel gear and life jackets included. And if you’d rather not get in, you can still watch from the boat through the clear floor.
Which turtles live around Aruba?
Several species of sea turtle are found in Aruba’s waters, and the ones snorkelers see most along the west coast are usually green and hawksbill turtles. All sea turtles in Aruba are protected, which is why the rules about distance and not touching matter.
Best time to see them
Turtles can show up at any time of day. Many snorkelers find early mornings calmer and less crowded, which helps visibility. Whatever time you go, move slowly and stay still once you spot one. Turtles tend to carry on feeding if they don’t feel chased.
What to bring for Tres Trapi
- Mask and snorkel (included on the clear boat)
- Water shoes if you’re going in from shore
- Reef-safe sunscreen and a rash guard
- A waterproof phone pouch
Shore vs clear boat, compared
| From shore | Clear boat | |
|---|---|---|
| Entry | Rocks and carved steps | Straight off the boat |
| Gear | Bring or rent your own | Included |
| Non-swimmers | Not really | Watch through the floor |
| Other stops | None | Antilla wreck and Boca Catalina |
If you’re a confident swimmer on your own, the shore entry is free. For families, mixed groups and anyone who wants the wreck and the reef in the same trip, the boat is the easier and safer way to do it.