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a8 local
Friday 17 May 2024

How Aruban beaches came to be!

also contribute to this, one
small bite at a time. Over
the course of thousands
of years, as waves contin-
ue to crash and fish con-
tinue to eat off the corals,
sand starts to accumulate
around the area. Howev-
er, whether the sand stays
there is another question
to be answered, and this is
where we highlight the big-
gest difference between floors—has sand that island. The island actu-
the northern and southern stretches for miles. In con- ally forms part of South
coast of the island. trast, the northern area, America, and the space
(Oranjestad)—We’ve talk- How did Aruba get its where the stream is much between Aruba and the
ed about the best beaches white, sandy beaches? The sand that accumulates stronger and the ocean South American continent
to visit on the island before, Aruba’s beaches have de- around a torn coral reef floor is much deeper, there is simply referred to as land
but have you ever won- veloped over the span of is swept away along with is no sand present—they that runs under the ocean.
dered how Aruba got its thousands of years. Waves the debris by the ocean were swept away with the This is why it gets gradu-
white, sandy beaches, and crashing on the rocky for- stream. However, in areas current! ally deeper in the south,
why there’s a clear differ- mations along our coast where it’s shallow and the whereas the ocean floor in
ence between the northern line (which consists mainly stream is weaker, the sand Why north deep, but south the north runs steeply to the
and southern shores? Here of coral reefs) have start- tends to sick to the bot- shallow? bottom.q
are some fun facts about ed to wear and tear the tom faster. This is why the Ah! Good question…and
the development of Aru- reefs over time, resulting beaches in the south—the interesting phrasing. Source: archival document
ban beaches. in its gradual breakdown. areas with weaker stream provided by the National Ar-
Fish that feed off corals and shallower ocean Aruba is a continental chive of Aruba (ANA).

Visit the island’s hidden natural pools

and food—it could take you
up to three hours to hike there!

However, when you even-
tually do get there, you will
be greeted with crystal blue
water surrounded by a natural
rock formation that protects
you from the wild waves on
the other side. Though the
pool is located on the north-
(Oranjestad)—Amongst the (Turtle’s Cove) or just Natural ern side of the island (where it, but most people just call wild northern waves crash into
countless beaches surround- Pool—is reachable with any the sea is largely rough and it the cave pool. each other. Sounds scary, but
ing the island that are well- 4x4 vehicle or by foot if you’re largely no suitable for swim- if you look down on your right,
known and frequently visited, up for a long hike. However, ming), the pool itself is very Just like the Conchi, the new you’ll see a calm, crystal blue
there are an additional two since it is part of the National calm. It’s also relatively deep, natural pool is situated on little pool in the corner. To
“hidden” natural pools that Park, you must first get permis- and you can climb up the the northern coast of Aruba. get there, you have to climb
are situated in the northern sion from park management rocks and jump in! However, this pool is much down some stairs. Be care-
coast of the island, two ideal to enter. You would have to easier to reach with any type ful when climbing down and
stops in your tour itinerary. purchase a day pass, and Cave Pool of vehicle, and there is no follow the instructions of your
receive a wristband as proof This relatively new pool ap- hiking needed. This spot has tour guide if you have one.
Conchi (Natural Pool) of payment. Once you’ve peared just a few years ago, also become a regular stop
For many years, Conchi was completed that, you are set! when a part of the dried up for touring visitors. And just like Conchi, this pool
the only natural pool that we coral floor broke off and cre- also has a jumping spot, and
had on the island. Located If you decide to hike from the ated a partition between the When you get there, maybe a rope to climb back up the
in the Arikok National Park, entrance of the Arikok Na- ocean and what is now the you won’t be able to spot the boulder.
near Boca Keto and the tional Park, this is also possible: natural pool that is hidden pool immediately, because
Daimari Ranch, Conchi— do bring plenty of protective there. Because it’s still so new, you will probably notice the Picture of cave pool is cred-
also known “Cura di Turtuga clothing and enough water there is no official name for moon-shaped lagoon where ited to RockaBeach Tours