β’ What they are: Caesalpinia coriaria β a native Caribbean tree bent permanently by Aruba’s northeast trade winds
β’ Direction: Always point southwest β the opposite direction of the prevailing wind
β’ Best location: Eagle Beach, California Lighthouse area, throughout the island
β’ Local name: Watapana in Papiamento β Aruba’s local language
β’ Significance: Aruba’s natural compass β used historically for navigation on the island
The Aruba divi divi tree is the island’s most iconic natural symbol β permanently bent by the trade winds and pointing southwest across every corner of the island. Here’s everything to know about the Aruba divi divi tree.
The divi divi tree (Caesalpinia coriaria) is Aruba’s most iconic natural symbol β the permanently bent tree whose shape is carved by the island’s relentless northeast trade winds. Every divi divi tree on the island points in the same direction, making them a natural compass. Here’s everything to know about them.
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Why Are Divi Divi Trees Bent?
Aruba’s northeast trade winds blow consistently at 15β25 knots almost every day of the year. Divi divi trees grow in the direction of least resistance β bending away from the prevailing wind and pointing permanently to the southwest. Because the trade winds blow from the same direction year-round, every divi divi on the island ends up pointing the same way. They’re often called Aruba’s natural compass β if you’re lost on the island, find a divi divi tree and you know which direction is southwest.
Where to See the Best Divi Divi Trees
Eagle Beach
The most photographed divi divi trees in Aruba grow on Eagle Beach β the famous fofoti (a similar species also bent by the wind) trees on the sand with the turquoise water behind them. This is the classic Aruba postcard image. Walk south along Eagle Beach past the Bucuti resort for the best specimens right on the sand.
California Lighthouse Area
The northern coast near the California Lighthouse has beautiful divi divi trees in their natural setting β bent against the dramatic rocky coastline and the trade winds coming off the open Atlantic. Jeep tours always pass through this area.
Arikok National Park
The national park covers 20% of the island’s landmass and contains divi divi trees throughout the rugged interior. The natural, undisturbed landscape shows the trees in their true environment.
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Divi Divi Tree Facts
- Scientific name: Caesalpinia coriaria
- Local name: Watapana (in Papiamento, Aruba’s local language)
- Height: Typically 3β8 metres
- Wood: Historically used for tanning leather due to tannin content in the pods
- Related: The fofoti tree (Conocarpus erectus) on Eagle Beach looks similar and is also bent by the wind β often confused with the divi divi
- Protected: Divi divi trees are protected in Aruba and cannot be cut without government permission
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