Aruba is more than just stunning beaches; it’s a fantastic playground for families seeking adventure and unforgettable memories. From exploring hidden coves to encountering friendly wildlife, Aruba offers a diverse range of kid-friendly activities that will keep everyone entertained. This guide dives into the best spots in Aruba for family fun, offering practical tips and real-world insights to help you plan the perfect vacation.
Baby Beach: A Gentle Introduction to the Caribbean Sea
Baby Beach, located on the southern tip of Aruba, is aptly named for its incredibly shallow and calm waters, making it ideal for toddlers and young children. The water rarely reaches above knee-height for a considerable distance, allowing kids to splash and play safely. The beach also features a convenient roped-off area, further ensuring a secure swimming environment.
What to do: Besides swimming, Baby Beach offers excellent snorkeling opportunities, especially around the man-made reef. Although the reef isn’t as vibrant as some other snorkeling spots, it’s still a great place for kids to see colorful fish in a protected environment. Rent snorkeling gear right on the beach. Building sandcastles is, of course, a must! The soft, white sand is perfect for creating impressive structures.
Food and Facilities: Baby Beach has a restaurant and bar called Big Mama Grill, themed like the Flintstones’ home, adding to the family-friendly atmosphere. The food is decent, and it’s convenient to grab lunch or a snack without leaving the beach. There are also restrooms, showers, and changing facilities available for a small fee.
Getting There: Baby Beach is about a 45-minute drive from the hotel area. You can rent a car and drive yourself, take a taxi, or book a tour that includes transportation. Driving allows you the flexibility to explore other nearby attractions, like the Colorado Point Lighthouse.
Cost: Beach access is free. Snorkel gear rental is around $15-$20, and chair rentals are approximately $8-$10 each. Budget around $20-$30 per person for lunch and drinks.
Arikok National Park: Discovering Aruba’s Wild Side
Arikok National Park covers nearly 20% of Aruba’s landmass and offers a stark contrast to the pristine beaches. It’s a landscape of rugged terrain, cacti, and dramatic coastline, perfect for families seeking adventure and a glimpse into Aruba’s natural beauty. Keep in mind that some parts of the park are only accessible with a 4×4 vehicle.
What to do: The park is home to several fascinating caves, including the Fontein Cave and the Quadirikiri Cave. Fontein Cave features Arawak Indian drawings on the ceiling, providing a glimpse into Aruba’s history. Quadirikiri Cave is known for its two chambers illuminated by sunlight filtering through holes in the roof, creating a magical atmosphere. Bring flashlights for better visibility. Hiking is another popular activity. Several trails offer varying levels of difficulty. The Cunucu Arikok trail is a relatively easy walk suitable for families, while the Arikok Hilltop trail offers more challenging climbs and rewarding panoramic views. Remember to wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water.
Animals to Spot: Keep an eye out for the Aruban Whiptail Lizard (Cododo), the Aruban Burrowing Owl (Shoco), and various bird species. The park is a sanctuary for these animals, and responsible viewing is essential. Always maintain a respectful distance and avoid feeding the wildlife.
Visitors Center: Start your visit at the Arikok National Park Visitor Center. Here, you can learn about the park’s flora, fauna, and geology. You can also purchase park entrance tickets and get maps of the hiking trails.
Getting There: Renting a 4×4 vehicle is highly recommended for exploring Arikok National Park, especially if you plan on venturing beyond the main roads. The roads can be rocky and uneven, and a regular car might not be suitable. You can also take a guided tour, which often includes transportation and a knowledgeable guide.
Cost: The entrance fee to Arikok National Park is $11 per adult per day. Children under 17 are free. Guided tours vary in price, but expect to pay around $50-$100 per person.
Philip’s Animal Garden: Up Close and Personal with Exotic Animals
Philip’s Animal Garden is a non-profit animal rescue and rehabilitation center dedicated to rescuing and caring for exotic animals. It’s a wonderful place for families to learn about different species and interact with them in a safe and educational environment.
What to do: The garden is home to over 50 different species of animals, including monkeys, kangaroos, lions, tigers, and various birds. You can purchase a bag of food and feed some of the animals, which the kids will absolutely love. The staff is knowledgeable and passionate about the animals, and they are happy to answer questions and provide information. Philip’s Animal Garden also offers guided tours. You can learn more about the animals’ stories and the work that goes into caring for them.
Ethical Considerations: Philip’s Animal Garden is committed to ethical animal care and rescue. The animals are provided with spacious and enriching environments, and the focus is on rehabilitation and well-being. Supporting organizations like this helps promote responsible tourism and animal welfare.
Getting There: Philip’s Animal Garden is located off of a main road. It’s easily accessible by car or taxi. Consider combining a visit to the Garden with a trip to the nearby Alto Vista Chapel.
Cost: The entrance fee to Philip’s Animal Garden is $10 per adult and $5 per child. Bags of animal food are available for purchase.
De Palm Island: A Day of All-Inclusive Fun
De Palm Island is a private island offering an all-inclusive day of fun for the whole family. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a hassle-free experience with a variety of activities and amenities included in one price.
What to do: De Palm Island boasts a water park with slides and play areas for kids of all ages. There’s also a dedicated kids’ area with smaller slides and shallow pools for the little ones. The island also offers unlimited snorkeling in a designated area with a vibrant coral reef and plenty of colorful fish. Snorkeling gear is included in the all-inclusive package. You can also take a ride on the banana boat, try your luck at beach volleyball, or simply relax on the beach. For an extra fee, you can experience a helmet dive and walk on the seabed, or try the Sea Trek underwater adventure. Other activities include salsa lessons, ziplining, and power snorkeling.
Food and Drinks: The all-inclusive package includes unlimited food and drinks throughout the day. There are several restaurants and bars on the island serving a variety of cuisines, from grilled burgers and hot dogs to Caribbean specialties. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are also included.
Flamingo Beach: De Palm Island is also home to a flamingo beach, where you can get up close and personal with these iconic pink birds. While there is an attendant that hands out food, for ethical reasons, it is best not to feed the flamingos. Enjoy observing them in their natural habitat.
Getting There: De Palm Island is accessible by a short ferry ride from the mainland. Transportation to and from your hotel isn’t typically included in the price, so be wary of that. Be sure to check the specific details of your booking.
Cost: The all-inclusive day pass to De Palm Island costs around $125-$150 per adult and $100-$125 per child. This price includes transportation, food, drinks, and most activities. Extra activities, such as the helmet dive and Sea Trek, cost extra.
Aruba Ostrich Farm: A Unique Wildlife Encounter
The Aruba Ostrich Farm offers a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with ostriches and emus. It’s an educational and entertaining experience for the whole family, providing insights into these fascinating birds.
What to do: Take a guided tour of the Ostrich farm. Learn about the life cycle of the ostriches and the emus, their feeding habits, and their behaviors. You can even try to feed them from a bowl, which is a thrilling experience. There is also a restaurant on site. Enjoy casual food while watching the birds roam; this makes for a memorable meal.
Safety Considerations: Always follow the instructions of the tour guide. Ostriches are large and powerful birds, and it’s essential to maintain a safe distance and avoid any sudden movements. They may peck if they feel threatened, so ensure the kids are supervised at all times.
Getting There: The Aruba Ostrich Farm is located on the eastern side of the island. Check the bus routes from your hotel, or take a taxi to get there. The roads are well-maintained, making it easy to drive yourself.
Cost: The entrance fee to the Aruba Ostrich Farm is around $15 per adult and $8 per child. The price includes a guided tour.
California Lighthouse & Arashi Beach: Picture-Perfect Views and Relaxation
The California Lighthouse, located on the northwestern tip of Aruba, offers stunning panoramic views of the island and the surrounding coastline. Combined with a visit to nearby Arashi Beach, it makes for a relaxing and scenic family outing.
What to do: Climb to the top of the California Lighthouse (pre-booking is recommended). It can be a bit of a climb, but the views are well worth the effort. You can see the entire coastline, from the high-rise hotels to the rugged terrain of Arikok National Park. The area surrounding the lighthouse is also great for exploring. Take a walk along the rocky coastline and search for seashells and unique rock formations.
Arashi Beach: A short drive from the California Lighthouse is Arashi Beach. This is is a beautiful beach with calm, clear waters. It’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles. There is also a snack shack and a place to rent beach chairs and umbrellas.
Getting There: The California Lighthouse and Arashi Beach are easily accessible by car or taxi. The roads are well-maintained, and there is plenty of parking available.
Cost: There is a fee to climb the California Lighthouse. Arashi Beach is free to access, but there is a cost to rent beach chairs and umbrellas.
Butterfly Farm: A Magical Flutter of Wings
The Butterfly Farm in Aruba is a tranquil oasis where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of hundreds of exotic butterflies. It’s a captivating experience for both children and adults, offering a glimpse into the fascinating world of these delicate creatures.
What to do: Stroll through the lush gardens of the Butterfly Farm and observe the butterflies in their natural habitat. You’ll see butterflies of all shapes, sizes, and colors, from the tiny Jewel Pansy to the large Blue Morpho. The farm’s guides are knowledgeable and passionate about butterflies, and they’re able to share information about the butterflies’ life cycle, feeding habits, and behaviors. You’ll also see caterpillars, chrysalises, and emerging butterflies.
Photography Tips: Bring your camera and capture the beauty of the butterflies up close. A macro lens or a close-up filter can be useful for capturing the intricate details of their wings. Be patient and wait for the butterflies to land on a flower or a leaf to get the perfect shot.
Getting There: The Butterfly Farm is located in the high-rise hotel area. It’s easily accessible by car, taxi, or public transportation.
Cost: The entrance fee to the Butterfly Farm is around $16 per adult and $8 per child. Your ticket allows you to return as many times as you like during your stay, which is a great value.
Snorkeling and Boat Trips: Exploring Aruba’s Underwater World
Aruba’s crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life make it a paradise for snorkeling and boat trips. Several companies offer family-friendly excursions that cater to all ages and skill levels. From exploring coral reefs to swimming with sea turtles, there’s a snorkeling or boat trip for everyone.
Popular Snorkeling Spots: Arashi Beach, Boca Catalina, and Malmok Beach are all popular snorkeling spots with calm waters and vibrant coral reefs. Mangel Halto is also a good option for more experienced snorkelers. The Antilla Wreck, a German freighter that sank during World War II, is a famous dive and snorkeling site. However, the wreck is in deeper water, so it’s only suitable for adults and older children.
Choosing a Boat Trip: Look for a boat trip that caters to families with children. Many companies offer shorter excursions with activities like snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing. Some boats also have slides, trampolines, and other fun features for kids. Check the trip’s itinerary, duration, and included amenities before booking. Make sure the boat has appropriate safety equipment, including life vests for children. Some boats also include food and drinks in the price of the excursion.
Tips for Snorkeling with Kids: Choose a snorkeling spot with calm, shallow water. Make sure your kids are comfortable in the water and know how to use a snorkel and mask. Consider using a flotation device, such as a life vest or a snorkeling vest, to keep your kids safe and comfortable. Apply sunscreen liberally and reapply it often, especially after swimming. Bring a waterproof camera to capture your underwater adventures.
Example Trip: A wonderful family trip to try is Jolly Pirates Sailing Cruises & Snorkeling. This family-friendly boat trip includes snorkeling at multiple spots, rope swings, and a fun, energetic crew. The cost is roughly $70-80 per person.
Donkey Sanctuary Aruba: Supporting Animal Welfare
The Donkey Sanctuary Aruba is a non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing and caring for Aruba’s wild donkey population. It’s a heartwarming place to visit, where you can interact with these gentle creatures and learn about the challenges they face.
What to do: Visit the Donkey Sanctuary and learn about the history of donkeys in Aruba and the sanctuary’s work to protect them. You can pet and feed the donkeys. Purchase carrots as a treat for the donkeys. It’s a great way to connect with the animals. The sanctuary also has a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs, with proceeds supporting the sanctuary’s work.
Donkey History: Donkeys were once essential to Aruba’s economy, used for transportation and agriculture. However, with the advent of cars and tractors, they were largely abandoned and left to roam wild. The Donkey Sanctuary provides a safe haven for these animals, offering them food, shelter, and medical care.
Getting There: The Donkey Sanctuary is located in Santa Cruz. A car is the best way to get here.
Cost: The Donkey Sanctuary is free to enter, but donations are greatly appreciated. Carrots for feeding the donkeys can be purchased on-site.
Beach Relaxation and Sandcastle Building: Free Fun in the Sun
Of course, no trip to Aruba is complete without spending plenty of time relaxing on the beach and building sandcastles. Aruba’s beaches are renowned for their soft, white sand and crystal-clear waters. And the best part? It’s completely free!
Popular Beaches: Eagle Beach consistently ranks as one of the best beaches in the world. Palm Beach is known for its calm waters and gentle waves. It is ideal for swimming with children. Baby Beach, as mentioned earlier, is perfect for toddlers and young children.
Sandcastle Building Tips: Bring along buckets, shovels, and other sandcastle-building tools. Wet the sand before building to make it more compact and easier to mold. Use shells, seaweed, and other natural materials to decorate your sandcastles. Have a sandcastle building contest with your family and friends. The most creative sandcastle wins an ice cream treat!
Sun Safety: Remember to apply sunscreen liberally and reapply it often, especially after swimming. Wear hats and sunglasses to protect your skin from the sun. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Seek shade during the hottest part of the day.
Practical Tips for Traveling to Aruba with Kids
Traveling with kids requires some extra planning and preparation. Here are some practical tips to help make your trip to Aruba as smooth and enjoyable as possible:
Pack appropriately: Pack light, comfortable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and insect repellent. Bring any medications your children need, as well as a first-aid kit. Don’t forget swim diapers for babies and toddlers.
Book accommodations with kid-friendly amenities: Look for hotels or resorts that offer kids’ clubs, swimming pools, playgrounds, and other amenities that cater to families. Consider renting a vacation rental with a kitchen and laundry facilities.
Plan your activities in advance: Research the activities and attractions that interest you and your family and book them in advance, especially during peak season. Consider the ages and interests of your children when planning your activities. Allow for downtime to relax and recharge.
Pack snacks and drinks: Pack snacks and drinks for your kids to avoid hunger pangs and keep them hydrated. You can purchase snacks and drinks at supermarkets in Aruba, but it’s always a good idea to have some on hand.
Consider renting a car seat: If you plan on renting a car, consider renting a car seat for your children if they still require one. Check with the rental car company about their car seat options and availability.
Be prepared for the Caribbean sun: The Caribbean sun is strong, so it’s important to take precautions to protect your family from sunburn. Apply sunscreen liberally and reapply it often, especially after swimming. Wear hats and sunglasses to protect your skin from the sun. Seek shade during the hottest part of the day.
FAQ Section
What is the best time to visit Aruba with kids?
The best time to visit Aruba with kids is during the shoulder seasons, which are from mid-April to May and from September to early December. The weather is pleasant, and the crowds are smaller than during the peak season. Summer is also a good time to visit, but it can be hot and humid.
Is Aruba safe for families?
Aruba is generally a very safe island for families. The crime rate is low, and the locals are friendly and welcoming. However, it’s always important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
What currency is used in Aruba?
The official currency of Aruba is the Aruban Florin (AWG). However, U.S. dollars are widely accepted throughout the island. Credit cards are also accepted at most businesses.
Do I need a visa to enter Aruba?
U.S. citizens do not need a visa to enter Aruba for tourism purposes for stays of up to 30 days. However, you will need a valid passport.
What language is spoken in Aruba?
The official languages of Aruba are Dutch and Papiamento. However, English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.
References
- Arikok National Park Official Website
- De Palm Island Official Website
- Aruba Ostrich Farm Official Website
- Philip’s Animal Garden Official Website
- Donkey Sanctuary Aruba Official Website
Ready to create unforgettable memories with your family in Aruba? Start planning your adventure today! Book your flights, reserve your accommodations, and explore the exciting activities that await you. Aruba’s kid-friendly paradise is calling, and it’s time to answer with a resounding “Yes!” Get ready for sunshine, laughter, and a vacation your family will cherish forever.
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