Frenchman's Pass
About
Franse Pas (in Dutch) or Rooi Frances (in Papiamento) (literally: Frenchman's Pass) is a narrow passage on the island of Aruba, nestled between coral cliffs in Balashi. Frenchman's pass is located north of the area known as Spanish Lagoon and near the remnants of the Balashi Gold Mine.
The legend has it that in the early 17th century, French pirates attempted to invade Aruba but were confronted with fierce resistance from the indigenous people in this narrow passage. This significant encounter left a lasting impact, and as a result, the passage came to be known as Franse Pas in Dutch or Rooi Frances in Papiamento. In English, it translates to “Frenchman Pass".
Nearby
More to see within walking distance
Geography of Aruba
Notable place
1.1 mi awaySpaans Lagoen
Protected area in Aruba
0.6 mi awaySanta Cruz, Aruba
Town and region in Santa Cruz, Aruba
1.1 mi awayAruba First Mosque
Mosque in Savaneta, Aruba
1.3 mi awayBarcadera
Port in Aruba
1.3 mi awayPalm Island, Aruba
Island in Aruba
1.4 mi awayPlaces to eat nearby
Finding places to eat…
Traveler reviews
Tickets & tours
Tickets and tours for Frenchman's Pass
We may earn a commission from some of these links, at no extra cost to you. Learn more
Photos from Unsplash, Wikipedia and Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA); facts from Wikipedia; maps © OpenStreetMap contributors, weather from Open-Meteo. Huginn’s tips are AI-written — check prices, hours and entry rules before you go.