Expert: Andy Mendyk - 1/23/2005

Question
My husband and I are planning a Caribbean getaway in the next month.  We have been to Bonaire twice, and like it very much. Now we are thinking of trying Aruba.  We are serious snorkelers (no diving) and would like to know the availability of good (preferably great!) snorkeling from the shore.  Are there any hotels located in good snorkeling areas so that we could step from our room right into the fish (across a small beach).  We realize that Aruba is probably not as good as Bonaire for snorkeling, but we would hope to find live coral as well as fish.

Answer
Hi Pat! As much as I like Aruba, it really is not as good as Bonaire for snorkeling. Forget the hotel areas...Just sand and some fish..maybe a sand dollar, but no coral or exotic/colorfull fish!. However, on the east side of the island there are some spots, but you will have to drive there. Baby Beach and Rogers beach at the lower end of the island boasts good snorkeling, but nothing compared to Bonaire. The best suggestion I can make is when you get there, find a tour that goes to snorkeling sites, as the locals will know the best areas. You can reasearch more info at www.aruba.com  or www.aruba4u.com. I like snokeling myself, but you will not find anything at/near any of the hotels. A tour is the only way to go to make it worthwhile! I do know Aruba protects the coral reefs and imposes a heavy fine if they are damaged, but once again, there are no reefs near the hotel area. If there is anything else in particular I can help with, please do not hesitate to contact me again!!   Otherwise..have a great trip!!