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You are here: Home / Aruba / Spaans Lagoon

Spaans Lagoon

  • About Spaans Lagoon
  • How to Get There

Spaans Lagoon is one of the largest inlets and also the healthiest mangrove stand on the island. It is the only nature area in Aruba designated by an International Conservation status (Ramsar). Among the mainly dry cactus landscapes, this large evergreen forest stands out immediately. The denseness of the mangroves provide excellent shelter areas for many migrant bird species on the island. It is easily accessible from the road to Frenchmen pass.

Birds at Spaans Lagoon (Photo by Tatiana Becker)

There is a trail going around mainly the western and northern part of the island. Just next to the lagoon you will also find an important historical site, the (ex) gold mill of Balashi. Various bird species can be seen. Visibility is highest at the salt pond.

Spaans Lagoon (Photo by Angiolina Henriquez)

Although this beautiful nature area is a designated Ramsar site, it lacks local environmental protection which is being threatened by development projects. The Department of Nature and Environment is working on legally protecting this location, among others within the country.

Black-necked Stilts (Photo by Jonathan Colina)

Spaans Lagoon lies just south of the landmark Frenchmen Pass/gold mill. From Route 1 at Balashi, turn to Route 4 going towards the Balashi gold mill ruins where you can park your car and walk down towards the Lagoon. You can also take a turn from Route 1 to Frenchmen Pass where you will drive along the Spaans Lagoon.

Spaans Lagoon

Aruba Sites

  • Spaans Lagoon

Recommended Field Guides

Birds of Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao by Jeffrey V. Wells and Allison Childs Wells

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Waterbird Identification - Part II: Shorebirds! Today, 21 Jan, 4 PM EST. Part II will cover those challenging shorebirds. Learn tips & tricks to help you ID all the birds you see for the 2021 #CaribbeanWaterbirdCensus & beyond! Sign up here: bit.ly/Waterbird-ID-… @WetlandsInt pic.twitter.com/NE5C…

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