EXHIBIT 23.8
                     [LETTERHEAD OF ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP] 

                   CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS

As independent public accountants, we hereby consent to the incorporation by 
reference in this S-4 registration statement (No. 33-57033), filed by 
Westamerica Bancorporation, of our reports dated February 4, 1994, included (or 
incorporated by reference) in North Bay Bancorp's 10-K for the year ended 
December 31, 1993 and to all references to our Firm included in this 
registration statement.

                                      /s/ ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP

San Francisco, California
 January 31, 1995