Page 6 - HOH

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local Monday 29 SepteMber 2025

Visit the island’s hidden natural pools

(Oranjestad)—Amongst If you decide to hike from
the countless beaches sur- the entrance of the Arikok
rounding the island that are National Park, this is also
well-known and frequently possible: do bring plenty
visited, there are an addi- of protective clothing and
tional two “hidden” natural enough water and food—it
pools that are situated in the could take you up to three
northern coast of the island, hours to hike there!
two ideal stops in your tour
itinerary. However, when you eventu-
ally do get there, you will be
Conchi (Natural Pool) greeted with crystal blue wa-
For many years, Conchi was ter surrounded by a natural
the only natural pool that we rock formation that protects
had on the island. Located you from the wild waves on
in the Arikok National Park, the other side. Though the
near Boca Keto and the pool is located on the north-
Daimari Ranch, Conchi— ern side of the island (where
also known “Cura di Turtuga the sea is largely rough and
(Turtle’s Cove) or just Natu- largely no suitable for swim-
ral Pool—is reachable with ming), the pool itself is very den there. Because it’s still for touring visitors. you have to climb down
any 4×4 vehicle or by foot calm. It’s also relatively so new, there is no official some stairs. Be careful when
if you’re up for a long hike. deep, and you can climb name for it, but most people When you get there, may- climbing down and follow
However, since it is part of up the rocks and jump in! just call it the cave pool. be you won’t be able to the instructions of your tour
the National Park, you must spot the pool immediately, guide if you have one.
first get permission from park Cave Pool Just like the Conchi, the new because you will probably
management to enter. You This relatively new pool ap- natural pool is situated on notice the moon-shaped And just like Conchi, this pool
would have to purchase peared just a few years ago, the northern coast of Aruba. lagoon where wild northern also has a jumping spot, and
a day pass, and receive a when a part of the dried up However, this pool is much waves crash into each other. a rope to climb back up the
wristband as proof of pay- coral cliff floor broke off and easier to reach with any type Sounds scary, but if you look boulder.q
ment. Once you’ve com- created a partition between of vehicle, and there is no down on your right, you’ll see
pleted that, you are set! the ocean and what is now hiking needed. This spot has a calm, crystal blue little pool Picture of cave pool is cred-
the natural pool that is hid- also become a regular stop in the corner. To get there, ited to RockaBeach Tours

Feeling parched? Grab refreshment by the side of the road!

(Oranjestad)—Touring the island in the blistering heat can
leave one feeling rather thirsty and looking to cool off. Luck-
ily there are a few stands along the roads of Aruba that can
offer you just what you need: a nice, refreshing beverage!

These “coconut stands” can be found at several locations
on the island, where you can cool off with delicious smooth-
ies, drinks, snacks, and of course, fresh coconuts! Perfect dur-
ing family outings around the island, these stands can be
found in the following locations:
• Near the red Anchor in San Nicolas
• On the Linear Park in Oranjestad (in front of airport run-
way)
• At the California Light House hill
• Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruin
• Bushiribana Beach (Near the Ling & Song Supermarket)