I recently visited Aruba and wanted to share my experience with the beach palapas. Before my trip, I did some research online about whether they were free or if resorts could charge for them. Most information I found stated that all beaches, except for Renaissance Island and De Palm Island, are public. The government sets up the palapas. This means anyone can use them, and no one can charge you for them. However, what they can charge you for are chairs. This was confirmed by local guides and a police officer I spoke with.
Challenging the Hotels
During my stay, several hotels tried to tell me that I needed to move my chairs because their palapas were “rented.” I stood my ground. My reasoning was simple: first, the beaches are public. Second, the government places palapas for everyone to use. It felt a bit awkward to argue, but it was definitely worth saving approximately $50 each time. It seems wrong that hotels try to charge people for reserving palapas when they truly can’t reserve a specific one. They can only rent out chairs. My advice: bring your own chairs and just find a spot under a palapa. They can’t do anything about it.
The Official Regulations
I found official documentation that supports this. The government’s directive makes it quite clear. You can find this document from the Directorate of Infrastructure and Planning (DIP) if you know where to look. It outlines the specific rules regarding public beaches and their facilities.
The directive states that the beaches of Aruba are public. They must be accessible to everyone, residents and visitors alike. This access is meant to be equal for all, and it should stay that way.
Regarding palapas, the directive is very specific. Renting or reserving shade facilities installed on the beach is not allowed. These facilities are on public beach land without a special permit. Under legal principles, they are the property of the Land of Aruba. These amenities must be within a designated “Facilities strip.” Any shade facilities located elsewhere must either be moved to this strip or taken down.
It also clearly states that these shade devices are equally accessible. This applies to both visitors and residents of Aruba. The principle is “first come, first served.” The directive even mandates that a “beach steward” be assigned to each beach section. Their job is to ensure an orderly allocation of beach chairs. This allocation should follow the “first come, first served” principle for available space under palapas or parasols. This condition will also be part of any pitch license issued to hotels or other entities.
Therefore, the information I gathered and my experiences on the beach are fully supported by official regulations. It’s truly a matter of knowing your rights and standing firm.
Understanding the “First Come, First Served” Principle
The “first come, first served” rule for palapas is crucial. It means that the palapa itself cannot be reserved. If you arrive early and find an empty palapa, it’s yours to use for the day. This applies whether you are staying at a fancy resort or just visiting for the day. The hotels cannot claim ownership or exclusivity over these structures. They are for everyone.
This principle ensures fairness. It prevents wealthier visitors or specific hotel guests from having exclusive access to these public amenities. It’s a great way to maintain equality on the beautiful Aruban beaches.
The Role of Beach Stewards
The mention of a “beach steward” is interesting. Their role is to manage the allocation of chairs beneath palapas. This suggests that while the palapa structure is public, the space directly under it, especially if chairs are provided by a hotel, needs some form of organization. However, their primary duty is to ensure the “first come, first served” rule is upheld. They are not there to enforce hotel-specific reservations for palapas themselves. Instead, they manage the chairs available for use under those public structures. This reinforces the idea that the palapa is public property.
What Hotels Can Charge For
This whole situation boils down to a key distinction: chairs versus palapas. Hotels can legally charge for their own chairs. If a hotel provides comfortable loungers, towels, and perhaps even drink service to your spot under a palapa, they can certainly charge for that service and the use of their chairs. What they cannot charge for is the shade provided by the palapa structure itself. This is a subtle but very important difference.
So, if you want to avoid paying, simply bring your own beach chairs or a towel to sit on. You are perfectly within your rights to set up under any available government-provided palapa. This can save you a significant amount over a multi-day trip.
Navigating Confrontation
Encountering hotel staff who insist on paying for a palapa can be uncomfortable. However, remembering the official regulations helps build confidence. You can politely explain that you understand the beaches and palapas are public. You can even mention the “first come, first served” policy. Having a printout or digital copy of the relevant section of the directive from DIP could be helpful, though typically just knowing the facts is enough.
It’s about being firm but respectful. You’re not breaking any rules; you’re simply exercising your public rights. The value of saving money and upholding public access far outweighs the temporary awkwardness.
This experience highlighted the importance of being informed about local laws and customs when traveling. What might seem like a common practice (charging for beach shade) in some places is explicitly forbidden in Aruba. It’s a wonderful aspect of the island that contributes to its accessible charm.
Learning this detail truly enhanced my beach experience. Knowing I could simply find a palapa and set up without worrying about rental fees was liberating. It made enjoying Aruba’s stunning coastline even more straightforward and enjoyable.
So, next time you’re on an Aruban beach, remember this. Go ahead, find an open palapa, set up your spot, and enjoy the beautiful Aruban sun and shade without worry. It’s your public right.
FAQ Section
Are all beaches in Aruba public?
Yes, almost all beaches in Aruba are public. The main exceptions are Renaissance Island and De Palm Island, which are private. All others are accessible to everyone.
Can resorts charge me to use a palapa in Aruba?
No, resorts cannot charge you to use the palapa structures themselves. The government places these palapas on public land, and they are available on a “first come, first served” basis to all visitors and residents. Charging for their use is explicitly not allowed.
What can resorts charge for on the beach?
Resorts can charge for amenities they provide, such as beach chairs, loungers, towels, and any food or beverage service delivered to your spot. This is distinct from charging for the palapa’s shade.
What does “first come, first served” mean for palapas?
It means that whoever arrives first at an empty palapa gets to use it for the day. There are no reservations allowed for the palapa structure itself by hotels or individuals.
What should I do if a hotel employee tells me I need to pay for a palapa?
You can politely explain that you understand the beaches and palapas are public and operate on a “first come, first served” basis. If you have your own chairs, you are well within your rights to use an available palapa without charge.
Who installs the palapas on Aruba’s public beaches?
The government of Aruba installs the palapas on public beaches for the use of everyone.
Are beach stewards present on Aruban beaches?
Yes, according to official directives, beach stewards should be assigned to beach sections. Their role is to ensure orderly allocation of beach chairs under palapas, adhering to the “first come, first served” principle.
Can I bring my own chairs to use under a palapa on a public beach?
Absolutely. Bringing your own chairs or even just a towel to sit on under an available palapa is a great way to enjoy the shade without incurring any costs for rental chairs from hotels.
References List
Directorate of Infrastructure and Planning (DIP) Official Directive (RRIS-2013-1A-Directive)
Discover Aruba’s Public Beaches
Now that you know the ins and outs of Aruba’s public beaches and palapas, it’s time to experience them for yourself. Pack your beach essentials, perhaps a comfortable chair or a big towel, and head out to enjoy the stunning coastline. Embrace the freedom of finding your perfect spot under a government-provided palapa, knowing it’s there for everyone to enjoy. Don’t let misconceptions or hotel policies deter you from experiencing the true public charm of Aruba’s shores. Go forth, find your shade, and soak in the beauty of the “One Happy Island” on your terms.
