What is the Natural Pool?
The Natural Pool, or Conchi, is an enclosed area along the eastern coast of Aruba. The “pool” is formed by volcanic rocks forming a basin which is fed by the waters of the crashing waves of the Caribbean Sea. Why is it a hidden gem? Well, it’s far from your normal resort-style beaches and it does require a sense of adventure to reach this place.
How to get there?
This area is on the Eastern coast of Aruba in Santa Cruz. You can access the beach by hiking, horseback, or 4×4 in Arikok National Park. There is an entrance fee. It is quite a trek by horseback and hiking, about 7 mi round trip, so plan accordingly. The entire National Park itself makes up over 20% of Aruba, so the journey to the beach is just a small part of the National Park.
Horseback
We did horseback through a local ranch Rancho Loco. It is a sustainable and eco-friendly ranch. Their horses roam freely and are not confined in stables. They also alternate their horses and half day operation on Sundays to allow their horses to rest. If you want to do horseback, I would book them through here. Easy booking, and free 24 hour cancellation. You will also get a discount through that link 😉
The entire trip took half a day. The trek to the pool is very open under the sun, so I would plan for a morning trip. The landscape changes, so it is quite a beautiful site—desert, rocky to soft sands and clear blue waters. Bring reef-friendly sunblock and a towel. This is my favorite sun block because it truly is reef-friendly (mineral sunblock) with an spf of 50. It is also great for kids and toddlers. I take this towel everywhere because it is multi-functional as a sarong, sand repellant, and dries quickly. Hiking shoes or hiking sandals are recommended as well. There is a small hike down to the beach from where the horses will wait for you while you’re exploring the beach and Natural Pool.
Natural Pool
The water is warm! Be VERY careful because the rocks are slippery! The waves can be pretty harsh too, so take precautions. Once you’re in the pool, it’s pretty calm and relaxing. Plan an early trip, and if you go on your own and not with a guided tour, go VERY early to beat the heat and the crowd.
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