Aruba is a fantastic destination for families, boasting sunshine, sparkling coastlines, and a plethora of activities to keep everyone entertained. Forget the typical beach vacation boredom; Aruba offers everything from thrilling water sports to fascinating wildlife encounters. This guide dives into specific locations around the island – the best spots – detailing family-friendly adventures perfect for all ages and activity levels. Get ready to discover your Aruba family itinerary!
Baby Beach: Shallow Waters and Kid-Friendly Snorkeling
Baby Beach, located at the southern tip of Aruba, is renowned for its incredibly shallow and calm waters, making it ideal for even the tiniest family members. The water is so clear that you can see your toes! This is the spot for parents who want their little ones to safely splash and play without worrying about strong currents or deep waters. The maximum depth in the designated swimming area is about 4 feet, ensuring a safe and relaxing experience.
What to do: Besides swimming and playing in the shallows, Baby Beach offers amazing snorkeling right off the shore. The enclosed area is teeming with colorful fish, providing a gentle introduction to the underwater world for kids. Remember to bring your own snorkeling gear or rent it from one of the vendors on the beach. Also, look out for the floating water park near the entrance of the beach.
Practical Tip: While Baby Beach offers natural shade from palm trees, it’s recommended to bring your own beach umbrella or rent one for extra protection from the sun. Sunscreen is a MUST! Baby Beach also has a restaurant, Big Mama Grill, that is shaped like a jumbo jet, serving kid-friendly meals and refreshing drinks. There are also clean restroom and shower facilities available, making it a convenient choice for families.
Cost: Access to Baby Beach is free. Renting beach chairs and umbrellas can cost around $30-$40 per day. Snorkeling gear rental is typically around $10-$15 per set.
Directions: Baby Beach is located at the southern tip of Aruba, near San Nicolas. The easiest way to get there is by car. From Oranjestad, take Route 1 south towards San Nicolas. Follow the signs for Baby Beach. Ample parking is available.
De Palm Island: A Day of All-Inclusive Fun
De Palm Island is a privately owned island just off the coast of Aruba, offering an all-inclusive experience perfect for families seeking a day of non-stop entertainment. With a single admission fee, you gain access to a whole host of activities, from snorkeling and swimming to water park adventures and even flamingo encounters!
What to do: Snorkeling tours are a highlight, with the chance to see vibrant coral reefs and colorful fish. The island also boasts a thrilling water park with slides and splash pads, perfect for kids of all ages. For a truly unique experience, book a Flamingo Encounter, where you can get up close and personal with these graceful birds. Other activities include banana boat rides, air jumpers, and even salsa lessons. The best thing is, you can repeat whatever you want, all day!
Food and Drinks: The all-inclusive package includes unlimited food and drinks throughout the day. Expect buffet-style meals with a variety of options, including kid-friendly favorites like pasta and pizza. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are also included.
Practical Tip: Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season. The all-inclusive package covers most activities, but certain experiences, like SNUBA or Sea Trek, may require an additional fee. Remember to bring sunscreen, towels, and water shoes. Consider bringing or purchasing a reef-safe sunscreen to help protect Aruba’s coral reefs.
Cost: The all-inclusive day pass to De Palm Island typically costs around $129 per adult and $99 per child (ages 4-12). Children under 4 are usually free. Prices may vary depending on the season and any special promotions.
Directions: De Palm Island is accessible by a short ferry ride from the main island. The ferry departs from a dedicated dock located near Oranjestad. Transportation to the dock is usually included in your De Palm Island booking.
Arikok National Park: Hiking, Caves, and Natural Pools
For families seeking adventure beyond the beach, Arikok National Park offers a rugged and beautiful landscape to explore. This protected area covers a significant portion of Aruba’s interior and is home to diverse flora and fauna, ancient caves, and stunning coastal scenery. While the terrain can be challenging in certain areas, there are plenty of trails suitable for families with older children and teenagers.
What to do: Several hiking trails wind through the park, ranging in difficulty and length. The Cunucu Arikok Trail is a relatively easy loop that showcases the park’s unique vegetation. For a more challenging hike, consider the trail to the top of Jamanota Hill, Aruba’s highest point, offering panoramic views of the island. Explore the Fontein Cave, adorned with ancient Arawak Indian drawings, and venture to the Quadirikiri Cave, famous for its bats and sunlight streaming through its roof openings. Do remember to adhere to the safety signs when entering the caves.
The Natural Pool (Conchi): One of the most popular attractions in Arikok National Park is the Natural Pool, also known as Conchi. This secluded pool is formed by volcanic rock formations, creating a protected swimming area. Reaching the Natural Pool requires a 4×4 vehicle or a guided tour, as the road is extremely rocky and challenging. Swimming in the Natural Pool is a unique and unforgettable experience, but be mindful of the waves and currents.
Practical Tip: Wear sturdy hiking shoes, bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat. Consider hiring a 4×4 vehicle or joining a guided tour to access the more remote areas of the park, including the Natural Pool. The park also has a visitor center where you can learn more about the park’s history, geology, and wildlife.
Cost: Entrance to Arikok National Park costs $11 per adult per visit. Children are free. If you are planning to visit regularly, consider purchasing an annual pass. Guided tours typically cost $75-$150 per person, depending on the tour operator and the duration of the tour.
Directions: Arikok National Park covers a large portion of Aruba’s interior. The main entrance is located on the east side of the island. From Oranjestad, take Route 7 towards Santa Cruz. Follow the signs for Arikok National Park.
Aruba Butterfly Farm: A Magical Experience for All Ages
Step into a tropical paradise at the Aruba Butterfly Farm, home to hundreds of exotic butterflies from around the world. This enchanting attraction offers a unique opportunity to observe these delicate creatures up close in a lush and vibrant setting. It’s a sensory delight for visitors of all ages, providing a magical and educational experience.
What to do: Wander through the farm’s expansive garden, filled with flowering plants and fluttering butterflies. Knowledgeable guides will share fascinating facts about the butterfly life cycle, their habitats, and their unique characteristics. You’ll learn how butterflies are raised and released, and you’ll have the chance to see caterpillars munching on leaves and chrysalises transforming into butterflies. The colours and patterns of the butterflies are just mesmerizing.
Photography Opportunities: The Aruba Butterfly Farm is a photographer’s dream, offering countless opportunities to capture stunning images of butterflies in their natural environment. Bring your camera and prepare to be amazed by the beauty and diversity of these winged creatures.
Practical Tip: Arrive early in the morning when the butterflies are most active. Wear brightly colored clothing to attract butterflies. The farm is open daily from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. You can re-enter as many times as you like during your stay in Aruba with the same ticket, so don’t throw it away!
Cost: Admission to the Aruba Butterfly Farm costs around $16 per adult and $8 per child (ages 4-12). Children under 4 are free.
Directions: The Aruba Butterfly Farm is located in the High-Rise Hotel area in Palm Beach. From Oranjestad, take Route 1 north towards Palm Beach. The Butterfly Farm is located on your left, across from the Divi Phoenix Beach Resort.
Philip’s Animal Garden: Rescue and Rehabilitation
For animal-loving families, Philip’s Animal Garden is a must-visit. This non-profit rescue and rehabilitation center provides a safe haven for over 50 different species of animals, many of which have been rescued from abandonment or abuse. It’s a heartwarming experience to see these animals thriving in a loving and caring environment.
What to do: Take a guided tour of the garden and learn about the animals’ stories and the center’s mission. You’ll have the chance to feed and interact with some of the animals, including monkeys, kangaroos, ostriches, and donkeys. The garden also features a playground for children and a snack bar where you can purchase refreshments.
Supporting a Good Cause: By visiting Philip’s Animal Garden, you are supporting a valuable cause. The center relies on donations and visitor fees to provide food, shelter, and medical care for the animals. It’s a great way to give back to the community while enjoying a fun and educational experience.
Practical Tip: Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking. Bring cash for feeding the animals. And note that the animals can be fed at specific zones and you may only use the animal feeds provided, not your own food. The garden is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Cost: Admission to Philip’s Animal Garden costs around $10 per adult and $5 per child (ages 3-13). Children under 3 are free. Animal feed costs extra. You can purchase a bag of animal food for around $5.
Directions: Philip’s Animal Garden is located on the north side of the island, near Alto Vista Chapel. From Oranjestad, take Route 4 north towards Noord. Turn left onto Rooi Lamoenchi and follow the signs for Philip’s Animal Garden.
California Lighthouse and the Dunes: History and Panoramic Views
Standing proudly on the northern tip of Aruba, the California Lighthouse offers stunning panoramic views of the island’s coastline and the surrounding Caribbean Sea. This iconic landmark is a must-visit for families looking to capture breathtaking photos and learn about Aruba’s maritime history.
What to do: Climb to the top of the lighthouse for unparalleled views. The climb is manageable for most ages, although there are some steep steps. At the base of the lighthouse, explore the sand dunes and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the coast. The area is also popular for horseback riding and ATV tours.
History and Legends: The lighthouse is named after the S.S. California, a ship that sank off the coast of Aruba in 1891. Learn about the stories and legends surrounding the lighthouse and the ship.
Practical Tip: The best time to visit the California Lighthouse is during sunset, when the sky is ablaze with color. Bring your camera and capture some unforgettable memories. There is a restaurant (El Faro Blanco) located near the lighthouse, offering delicious Italian cuisine with stunning views. The restaurant is perfect for sunset views. The best time to visit the lighthouse is during sunset for unforgettable views.
Cost: Climbing the California Lighthouse costs around $5 per person. There is no cost to visit the surrounding area or explore the dunes.
Directions: The California Lighthouse is located on the northern tip of Aruba, near Arashi Beach. From Oranjestad, take Route 1 north towards Noord. Follow the signs for the California Lighthouse.
Palm Beach and Eagle Beach: Classic Beach Fun
No trip to Aruba is complete without spending time on its world-famous beaches. Palm Beach and Eagle Beach are consistently ranked among the best beaches in the world, offering pristine white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and a wide range of activities for families.
Palm Beach: Known for its lively atmosphere and abundance of water sports, Palm Beach is a hub of activity. Rent a jet ski, go parasailing, or take a banana boat ride. The beach is also lined with hotels, restaurants, and shops, offering plenty of dining and entertainment options.
Eagle Beach: A bit more relaxed and quieter than Palm Beach, Eagle Beach is known for its wide stretch of sand and iconic fofoti trees. This beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles. Keep an eye out for sea turtles, as they often nest on this beach.
Practical Tip: Both Palm Beach and Eagle Beach offer plenty of beach chair and umbrella rentals. Bring sunscreen, towels, and water shoes. Be mindful of the sun and stay hydrated. Enjoy a sunset cocktail at one of the beach bars.
Cost: Access to Palm Beach and Eagle Beach is free. Renting beach chairs and umbrellas can cost around $30-$40 per day. Water sports activities vary in price, depending on the activity and the duration.
Directions: Palm Beach and Eagle Beach are located on the west coast of Aruba, near the High-Rise and Low-Rise Hotel areas. From Oranjestad, take Route 1 north towards Noord. Follow the signs for Palm Beach or Eagle Beach. Parking is available at both beaches.
Donkey Sanctuary Aruba: A Heartwarming Visit
The Donkey Sanctuary Aruba provides a home and care for rescued donkeys. Visiting is an amazing educational and heartwarming experience, especially for families with young children. You can interact with these gentle creatures, learn about their history on the island, and support their wellbeing.
What to do: You can feed the donkeys; they love carrots and apples (you can purchase these at the sanctuary). Pet them, and learn about the donkeys and their stories from the volunteers. It’s a very hands-on experience.
Practical Tip: The sanctuary is located in Santa Cruz. Entrance is free, but donations are greatly appreciated. The donkeys are gentle, but supervise young children carefully. Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking around the sanctuary.
Cost: Entrance is free; donations are welcome and much needed to support the care of the donkeys. Carrots can be purchased at the sanctuary for a small fee.
Directions: Located in Santa Cruz. From Oranjestad, take Route 7 east towards Santa Cruz. Follow the signs for the Donkey Sanctuary.
Snorkeling and Boat Tours from Moomba Beach
Moomba Beach is a popular hangout spot located between the Holiday Inn and Marriott Surf Club on Palm Beach. It’s a great place to base yourself for various snorkeling and boat tours, and the beach itself offers a fun, lively atmosphere.
What to do: Several tour operators offer snorkeling trips to nearby reefs and shipwrecks. Consider a catamaran cruise that includes snorkeling, swimming, and open bar. Many tours are family-friendly and cater to different age groups and swimming abilities. If you are lucky, you may even see some sea turtles during your snorkeling or cruise tour!
Practical Tip: Book your tour in advance, especially during peak season. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and a towel. If you are prone to motion sickness, consider taking medication before the tour.
Cost: Snorkeling and boat tours vary in price depending on the duration and inclusions. A typical snorkeling tour costs around $50-$75 per person. Catamaran cruises with open bar can cost $80-$120 per person.
Directions: Moomba Beach is located on Palm Beach, between the Holiday Inn and Marriott Surf Club. Take Route 1 north towards Palm Beach. Public parking is available nearby, but it can get crowded during peak hours. Many hotels offer direct access to Moomba Beach for their guests.
Exploring the Street Art in San Nicolas
For a more unique and cultural experience, take a trip to San Nicolas, also known as “Sunrise City.” This vibrant town is home to a growing street art scene, with colorful murals adorning buildings throughout the city. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in local art and culture.
What to do: Take a walking tour of San Nicolas and admire the colorful street art. Many of the murals depict scenes from Aruban history, culture, and nature. There are also several art galleries and studios in San Nicolas where you can meet local artists and learn about their work.
Practical Tip: Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking. Bring your camera and capture the vibrant street art. Visit during the Art Fair (typically held in September) for an even more immersive experience.
Cost: Exploring the street art in San Nicolas is free. Guided tours are available for a fee.
Directions: San Nicolas is located on the southern tip of Aruba. From Oranjestad, take Route 1 south towards San Nicolas. Public transportation is also available.
FAQ Section
Is Aruba safe for families?
Yes, Aruba is generally considered a very safe destination for families. Crime rates are relatively low, and the island has a strong police presence. However, it’s always important to take basic safety precautions, such as locking your valuables and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
What is the best time of year to visit Aruba with kids?
Aruba has a warm and sunny climate year-round, so there’s no “bad” time to visit. However, the best time to visit with kids is generally during the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-November), when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are smaller. The peak season (December-March) is the busiest and most expensive time to visit.
What should I pack for a family trip to Aruba?
Pack lightweight clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, insect repellent, water shoes, and any necessary medications. If you plan on doing any hiking, bring sturdy hiking shoes. A reusable water bottle is also a good idea to stay hydrated. And don’t forget your camera to capture all the amazing memories!
Are there any restaurants in Aruba that cater specifically to children?
Most restaurants in Aruba are family-friendly and offer kid-friendly options on their menus, such as pasta, pizza, and chicken nuggets. Many restaurants also have outdoor seating, allowing kids to run around and play while waiting for their food. Some restaurants, like Big Mama Grill at Baby Beach, are particularly popular with families due to their playful atmosphere and kid-friendly menus.
How easy is it to get around Aruba with kids?
Getting around Aruba with kids is relatively easy. Renting a car is the most convenient option for exploring the island at your own pace. Taxis and public buses are also available. If you plan on visiting Arikok National Park, a 4×4 vehicle is recommended. Many hotels offer shuttle services to popular attractions.
What is the currency of Aruba?
The official currency of Aruba is the Aruban Florin (AWG). However, US dollars are widely accepted throughout the island. Credit cards are also accepted at most businesses. It’s a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases and tips.
References
- Aruba Tourism Authority
- Arikok National Park Foundation
- De Palm Island Official Website
Ready to plan your unforgettable family adventure in Aruba? Ditch the stress and create memories that will last a lifetime. Start booking your flights and accommodations today! Aruba awaits your family with open arms and sunshine-filled days. Don’t just dream about it, do it!
Explore Places to Stay in Aruba
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