Marina Pirata Restaurant – Sunset Seafood on the Spanish Lagoon

Atmosphere & Story

Family-run since the late 1970s, Marina Pirata sits at the edge of Aruba’s tranquil Spanish Lagoon in Savaneta. Wooden docks, string lights, and open-air palapas stretch over turquoise water, so you can watch tarpon glide below while the sun dips into the horizon. Longtime regulars mingle with first-timers, creating a welcoming, everyone’s-a-local energy.

Tradition with Island Flair

The kitchen keeps true to Aruban flavors—fresh catch cooked in creole sauce, garlic butter, or island spices—while introducing subtle twists that keep regulars curious. Much of the fish is sourced daily from local fishermen, and platters arrive with island staples like pan bati, funchi, fried plantains, and garden vegetables.

Chef’s Recommendations

• Spaans Lagoen Special – A shareable platter of fresh fish, shrimp, lobster, and scallops showcasing the lagoon’s best bites.
• Shore Platter – Mixed seafood medley with classic creole and garlic sauces for dipping.
• Whole Red Snapper – Seasoned to perfection, served fried or grilled with crisp skin and flaky interior.
• Grilled Caribbean Lobster – Butter-brushed tails with lemon and herbs.
• Catch of the Day – Prepared Aruban style, blackened, or in garlic butter depending on the day’s haul.

Starters & Sides

• Conch Fritters – Crispy bites with tangy remoulade.
• Coconut Shrimp – Sweet coconut batter, mango dipping sauce.
• Seafood Chowder – Creamy blend of fish, clams, and shrimp.
• Garden Salad – Local greens with house vinaigrette.
• Garlic Bread – Fresh-baked and perfect for soaking up sauces.

Drinks & Hospitality

House-made sangria, tropical cocktails, Balashi or Chill beer, and a curated wine list pair easy with sunset bites. Expect warm service, plenty of local stories, and thoughtful touches like citronella candles and shawls for breezy evenings.

Good to Know

• Location – Spaans Lagoenweg, Savaneta—15 minutes from Palm Beach resorts.
• Hours – Dinner nightly; reservations timed for sunset are most popular.
• Dress Code – Resort casual; sandals and sundresses fit the dockside vibe.
• Reservations – Highly recommended, especially for lagoon-edge tables.
• Perfect For – Seafood lovers, romantic dinners, families seeking a relaxed waterfront meal, travelers exploring Aruba’s south coast.

Why Visit

Between the lagoon setting, family recipes, and relaxed service, Marina Pirata delivers the classic Aruban seafood experience that locals have trusted for generations.