For several years, growing conflicts over the use of Aruba beaches have raised concern within the local community. Although the law clearly states that the first 10 meters from the shoreline are public property, many beachfront hotels and restaurants behave as if this area belongs to them.
Through palapas, beach chairs, and “reserved” areas, these establishments limit public access and, in many cases, charge for their use. This not only raises legal questions but also creates moral concerns regarding respect for public space.
This situation is not new. For more than a decade, there have been repeated complaints about charging for palapas on public beaches something that, according to the law, is not allowed. If hotels and restaurants charge for this, does that money actually go to the government? If not, are we dealing with an improper use of public property?
Beyond the legal aspect, there is a deeper social issue. Many Arubans feel like they are becoming strangers in their own land. Beaches that were once accessible to everyone now seem reserved mainly for tourists. Authorities and government, instead of protecting their citizens, remain passive while these practices continue unchecked.
This issue is not limited to Aruba. In Curaçao, similar problems have occurred where hotels tried to restrict locals’ access to beaches. In Curaçao you have to pay to access the beach. This led to protests and public outrage because many Curaçaoans felt disrespected in their own country.
Bonaire has had similar experiences. In the past, STINAPA attempted to introduce fees for beach access, which became a national political issue. Although the plan was halted, there remains fear that foreign investors will continue trying to privatize the coastline. This represents a lack of respect for island residents in their own country.
An important question is: could Arubans, Bonaireans, or Curaçaoans do the same in the Netherlands, the United States, or Spain? Could they simply take control of public property and exclude locals? The answer is clearly no, because governments in those countries protect their citizens and require all investors and immigrants to respect national laws. Why should it be different in Aruba?
Parliament also appears ineffective there are no visible legislative initiatives to protect Aruba’s natural environment or regulate coastal business development. Meanwhile, Minister Geoffrey Wever travels abroad promoting trade without first ensuring that proper laws are in place, potentially leading to chaos on the island. Is Aruba truly being governed responsibly?
Recently in Aruba, a tourist refused to pay for a palapa on a public beach, bringing the issue back into the spotlight. Ironically, it was not a local person but a visitor who exposed the problem.
Goverment are aware of what is happening but have not taken firm action. This is not only embarrassing for our country but also a threat to our cultural and social sovereignty. For years, many residents have protested against these disrespectful practices taking place on the island.
If this continues, Arubans will gradually lose their rights to their own beaches. What was once a communal space is becoming increasingly commercialized and exclusive.
The time has come for the government and relevant institutions to act to protect public beaches and ensure that the law is respected, not only for tourists but especially for local residents. Beaches are often the only place where locals can relax, relieve stress, and disconnect from mental, emotional, and social challenges present on the island.