What Is Sea Glass Island?
A Hidden Gem in Aruba’s Southern Waters
Nestled off the sun-kissed southern coast of Aruba lies a natural wonder known for its surreal beauty and tranquil energy — a small reef island where time and tide have worked their magic. This place is unlike any other in the Caribbean: here, nature has transformed the past into shimmering treasure, scattering the shore with wave-polished fragments of colorful sea glass. Sea Glass Island isn't a typical tourist destination. It’s a rare escape, reachable only by kayak or small boat, surrounded by calm turquoise waters and teeming with marine life. What draws visitors here isn’t just the scenery — it’s the story.
How Sea Glass Was Born
Written by the Sea
Over 50 years ago, long before sustainability became a global conversation, locals believed that waste dumped far offshore would simply vanish into the sea. On this tiny reef island, bottles, ceramics, and household glass were discarded and forgotten.
But nature had a different plan.
Over decades, powerful waves, coarse sand, and saltwater wore away the sharp edges, reshaping the discarded remnants into smooth, frosted jewels. Today, those same fragments — now known as sea glass — glimmer along the island’s shore in hues of jade green, sapphire blue, deep amber, and even rare lavender.
What began as waste is now one of Aruba’s most unique natural wonders.
How to get there
LOCATION
Sea Glass Island rests just off the coast of Savaneta, Aruba’s oldest fishing village. It’s a short paddle away — around 15 to 20 minutes by kayak — from the departure point near the iconic Flying Fishbone restaurant.
Because of its remote location, the island has stayed untouched by mass tourism. There are no docks, no kiosks, no souvenir stalls — just nature, and the sound of water meeting shore.
Map Coordinates: Open in Google Maps
How to get there:
Visitors typically access the island via guided kayak tours, which include all necessary equipment and safety gear.
Plan Your Visit to Sea Glass Island
Meeting Point
Tours typically depart from the Sea Ramp next to the Flying Fishbone restaurant in Savaneta, a scenic coastal village in southern Aruba.
Google Maps Pin:
Sea Ramp Departure Point
If you’re booked for a private tour, an alternative pickup location may be arranged at The Casita, which is even closer to the water.
Google Maps Pin:
Casita pickup location
Meeting Time: 15–20 minutes before your scheduled tour
Duration: Kayak to the island takes ~15 minutes, with total tour time around 2 hours
Look for brightly colored kayaks and a friendly local guide!
How It Gained Popularity
One-of-a-Kind
For decades, this island was known only to local fishermen and curious explorers. That changed in 2022, when a popular YouTuber and sea glass hunter known as Captain Ky showcased the island in a video that captured international attention. His walkthrough, titled “Sea Glass Heaven in Aruba”, has since drawn tens of thousands of views — and inspired a new wave of eco-tourists to seek out the island’s beauty.
Suddenly, collectors, photographers, adventurers, and families all wanted to discover this hidden jewel.
There are sea glass beaches across the world — California, England, Japan — but very few in the Caribbean. And even fewer with a story like this.
Sea Glass Island combines:
- A rare ecological formation (reef island formed by erosion),
- A visual spectacle (sea glass in dozens of colors),
- And a peaceful remoteness that makes it feel like a secret only a few know.
It’s not just a beach — it’s a natural museum of color and history.
Sea glass is a finite resource
A Message of Sustainability
While the island’s transformation is poetic, it’s also a powerful reminder.
Sea glass is a finite resource. Visitors are encouraged to enjoy the beauty, take small souvenirs if they wish, but always with care and respect. Overcollecting or disturbing the ecosystem could erase the very magic that makes this place special.
Most guided experiences to the island follow a sustainable ethos:
- Small group sizes
- Non-motorized transport (kayaks)
- No waste left behind
- Educational storytelling during the journey
Every visit is an opportunity to reflect on nature’s ability to heal — and our responsibility to protect it.
Start Your Adventure
Discover Aruba’s Hidden Sea Glass Paradise
Join an unforgettable journey through secret beaches, colorful treasures, and natural wonders – guided by local experts who know every tide and trail.
