Aruba Family Vacation: Ultimate Guide to Beaches & Activities for Kids

Are you planning a family trip to Aruba? This Caribbean island is perfect for families. It has sunny weather all year. The beaches are safe and beautiful. The people are very friendly. This guide will help you plan your trip. You will learn about the best places to stay. You will discover fun activities for kids. You will get practical tips for traveling with children. Let's explore Aruba together!

Why Choose Aruba for Your Family Vacation?

Aruba is a special island. It is part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. It sits just north of Venezuela. The island is only 20 miles long and 6 miles wide. But it has so much to offer families. First, the weather is amazing. It is sunny almost every day. The average temperature is 82°F (28°C). There is very little rain. This means you can enjoy outdoor activities. You don't need to worry about bad weather ruining your plans.

Second, Aruba is very safe. The crime rate is low. You can walk around with your family. You will feel comfortable. The local people, called Arubans, are kind and welcoming. They speak many languages. Most people speak English, Dutch, Spanish, and Papiamento. This makes communication easy for tourists.

Third, the island has great infrastructure. The roads are good. There are many family-friendly resorts. The restaurants offer kids' menus. The beaches have calm waters. This is important for young children. The island also has modern hospitals. This is good to know in case of emergencies.

Finally, Aruba has diverse activities. You can relax on the beach. You can explore natural parks. You can learn about local culture. There is something for everyone in the family. According to the Aruba Tourism Authority, over 1.1 million tourists visit the island each year. Many of them are families. They come back again and again.

The Best Time to Visit Aruba with Family

You can visit Aruba any time of year. The weather is always warm. But some months are better for families. The high season is from December to April. The weather is perfect during these months. However, it is also the most expensive time. Hotels cost more. Flights are pricier. The island is more crowded.

The low season is from May to November. Prices are lower during this time. You can find good deals on hotels. The island is less crowded. But there is a higher chance of rain. The rain usually comes in short showers. It does not last all day. The ocean water is warmer. This is good for swimming.

Many families choose to visit in the shoulder seasons. These are May-June and September-October. You get good weather. You also get lower prices. The crowds are smaller. This is a smart choice for families on a budget.

Top Family-Friendly Beaches in Aruba

Aruba is famous for its beaches. The sand is white and soft. The water is clear and blue. Many beaches are perfect for families. They have calm waters. They have facilities like restrooms and restaurants. Here are the best beaches for your family vacation.

Eagle Beach

Eagle Beach is often called one of the best beaches in the world. It is wide and beautiful. The sand is very soft. The water is calm and shallow. This makes it safe for young children. There are palapas (thatched shade huts) for rent. You can rent chairs and umbrellas. The beach is public. Anyone can use it. There are several resorts nearby. You can walk to restaurants and shops. Eagle Beach is great for swimming and building sandcastles.

Palm Beach

Palm Beach is the main tourist area. It is lined with high-rise hotels. The beach is long and beautiful. The water is calm because of an offshore reef. This reef breaks the waves. The beach has many water sports operators. You can rent jet skis. You can go parasailing. You can take a banana boat ride. There are many restaurants along the beach. You can find food for every taste. Palm Beach is lively and fun for families with older kids.

Baby Beach

Baby Beach is located in San Nicolas. This is on the southern tip of the island. The beach is shaped like a half-moon. It has very calm, shallow water. The water is only waist-deep for a long way out. This is why it is called Baby Beach. It is perfect for toddlers and young children. They can play safely in the water. There are shaded areas. You can bring your own food. There is also a small snack bar. Baby Beach is a bit far from the main hotel area. But it is worth the drive.

Arashi Beach

Arashi Beach is on the northwestern coast. It is known for excellent snorkeling. The water is clear. You can see many colorful fish. The beach has natural shade from divi-divi trees. These trees are bent by the wind. They look like they are dancing. Arashi Beach has restrooms and a small parking lot. It is less crowded than Palm Beach. It is a good spot for families who love nature.

Best Family-Friendly Resorts and Hotels

Choosing the right place to stay is important. You want a hotel that welcomes families. It should have amenities for children. Here are some top choices in Aruba.

All-Inclusive Resorts

All-inclusive resorts are popular with families. You pay one price for everything. This includes your room, food, drinks, and activities. It makes budgeting easier. You don't need to worry about extra costs. The Riu Palace Aruba is a great all-inclusive option. It has a kids' club. It has multiple pools. The food is good. The Barcelo Aruba is another good choice. It has a large water park. Kids love it. The resort has family rooms. It offers nightly entertainment.

Family-Friendly Hotels

Some hotels are not all-inclusive but are very family-friendly. The Holiday Inn Resort Aruba is a top pick. It has a huge pool complex. There are water slides. There is a lazy river. Kids can spend hours playing. The hotel has a kids' club for children aged 4-12. It offers supervised activities. Parents can have some time alone. The Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort Spa and Casino is another excellent hotel. It has a beautiful pool with a waterfall. It has a kids' club. It is located right on Palm Beach.

Vacation Rentals

Some families prefer vacation rentals. You can rent a house or an apartment. This gives you more space. You can cook your own meals. This can save money. Websites like VRBO and Airbnb have listings in Aruba. Look for rentals in areas like Palm Beach, Eagle Beach, or Oranjestad. Make sure the rental has amenities for kids. Check if it has a pool. Read reviews from other families.

Fun Activities for Kids and Teens

Aruba offers many fun activities for children of all ages. Here is a list of the best things to do.

Water Sports and Adventures

• Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: The water in Aruba is clear. You can see beautiful coral reefs. You can see shipwrecks. The Antilla wreck is popular. It is a large German ship from World War II. Many companies offer snorkeling tours. Some tours are specifically for families. They provide equipment and guides.
• Glass Bottom Boat Tours: This is perfect for younger kids. They can see the underwater world without getting wet. The boat has a glass bottom. You look down and see fish and coral. It is a fun and easy activity.
• Submarine Adventure: The Atlantis Submarine takes you deep underwater. You go down to 130 feet. You sit in a real submarine. You see coral, fish, and maybe even a turtle. Kids find this very exciting.
• Banana Boat and Jet Ski Rides: Older kids and teens love these. A banana boat is a large, inflatable boat. It is pulled by a speedboat. You hold on tight. It is a bumpy, fun ride. Jet skis are also available for rent. You must be at least 16 years old to drive one.

Land Adventures and Educational Fun

• Arikok National Park: This park covers almost 20% of the island. It has hiking trails. It has caves with ancient drawings. It has natural pools. You can see wild goats and donkeys. The park is a great place to learn about Aruba's nature. You can take a guided tour in a jeep. This is better with young children.
• Butterfly Farm: The Butterfly Farm is a magical place. You walk through a garden filled with butterflies. Hundreds of butterflies fly around you. A guide explains their life cycle. Kids can see caterpillars and cocoons. It is educational and beautiful.
• Ostrich Farm: This is a unique attraction. You can see ostriches and emus. You can feed them. You can even stand on an ostrich egg. It is very strong. The farm has a restaurant. You can try ostrich meat if you want.
• Donkey Sanctuary: Aruba has many wild donkeys. The sanctuary takes care of them. You can visit and pet the donkeys. You can feed them carrots. It is a fun and free activity. Donations are welcome.

Cultural Experiences

• Bon Bini Festival: This festival happens every Tuesday night in Oranjestad. It is held at Fort Zoutman. There is local music and dancing. There are craft stalls. You can try local food. It is a great way to experience Aruban culture.
• Aloe Vera Factory Tour: Aruba is famous for its aloe vera. You can take a free tour of the factory. You learn how aloe is grown and processed. You can buy aloe products at the end. The lotion is great for sunburn.
• Archaeological Museum: This small museum is in Oranjestad. It shows the history of Aruba's first people. You can see pottery and tools. It is interesting for kids who love history.

Practical Tips for Your Aruba Family Vacation

Planning a trip with kids requires extra thought. Here are practical tips to make your vacation smooth and enjoyable.

Before You Go: Planning and Packing

1. Documents: Everyone needs a valid passport. Check the expiration dates. Some countries also require a visa. U.S. citizens do not need a visa for stays under 30 days. Always check the latest rules on the U.S. Department of State website.
2. Health and Safety: No special vaccines are required for Aruba. But routine vaccines should be up-to-date. Pack a good first-aid kit. Include band-aids, antiseptic cream, and children's pain reliever. The sun is very strong. Pack high-SPF sunscreen (SPF 50+). Pack hats and sunglasses for everyone.
3. Packing List: Pack light, comfortable clothing. Bring swimsuits for each day. Bring a cover-up for going to restaurants. Bring water shoes. The sand can get very hot. The coral can be sharp. Pack snacks for the kids. Familiar snacks can be comforting.

Getting Around Aruba with Kids

1. Renting a Car: Renting a car is the best way to explore the island. It gives you freedom. You can visit different beaches. You can go to Arikok Park. All major car rental companies are at the airport. You need a valid driver's license. You must be at least 21 years old. Some companies require you to be 25. Remember, they drive on the right side of the road, just like in the U.S.
2. Taxis and Buses: Taxis are available but can be expensive. They do not have car seats. If you need a car seat, you must bring your own. The public bus system is good and cheap. It runs along the main hotel strip. It goes to Oranjestad. Buses are air-conditioned.
3. Car Seats: Aruban law requires car seats for young children. It is safest to bring your own. You can check it on the plane for free. Some car rental companies offer them for rent. But they may be old or not available. It is better to bring your own.

Money and Budgeting Tips

The official currency is the Aruban Florin (AWG). But U.S. dollars are widely accepted. Most places take credit cards. It is good to have some cash for small purchases. Tipping is customary. Tip 15-20% at restaurants. Tip taxi drivers and tour guides. Here are some average costs for a family of four:

• Budget hotel room: $150-$250 per night
• Mid-range hotel room: $250-$400 per night
• Luxury resort: $400-$800 per night
• Meal at a casual restaurant: $60-$100
• Gallon of water: $3
• Taxi from airport to Palm Beach: $30

To save money, book flights and hotels early. Travel in the low season. Choose a hotel with free breakfast. Eat some meals at your rental if you have a kitchen. Buy snacks and water at a supermarket. The Super Food and Ling & Sons are popular grocery stores.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is the tap water in Aruba safe to drink?

Yes, the tap water in Aruba is very safe. It is some of the cleanest in the Caribbean. The island has a large desalination plant. It turns seawater into drinking water. You can drink from the tap. You can also use it to brush your teeth. This saves money on bottled water.

2. What language do they speak in Aruba?

The official languages are Dutch and Papiamento. Papiamento is a local language. It is a mix of Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch, and African languages. But almost everyone speaks English very well. Spanish is also widely spoken. You will have no problem communicating.

3. Do we need to bring a power adapter?

No, you do not need an adapter. Aruba uses the same plugs as the United States. The voltage is 110V/60Hz. This is the same as in the U.S. You can plug in your phone charger, hair dryer, and other devices.

4. What is the food like? Will my kids find something to eat?

Aruban food is diverse. You can find American food like burgers and pizza. You can find Dutch snacks like bitterballen. You can find fresh seafood. Local dishes include keshi yena (stuffed cheese) and funchi (cornmeal porridge). Most restaurants have kids' menus. They offer chicken fingers, pasta, and fries. Picky eaters will be fine.

5. Are there mosquitoes or other bugs in Aruba?

Aruba has very few mosquitoes. The island is dry and windy. This is not good for mosquitoes. You do not need strong bug spray. You might see small sand flies on the beach. They are called "no-see-ums." They are more active at sunrise and sunset. A little bug spray can help.

6. What should we do if someone gets sick?

Aruba has good medical care. There are two modern hospitals: Dr. Horacio Oduber Hospital and Aruba Medical Center. There are also many clinics. Pharmacies are called "boticas." They can help with minor problems. It is a good idea to have travel insurance. This covers medical emergencies. It also covers trip cancellation.

7. Can we use our cell phones in Aruba?

Yes, but check with your provider first. Many U.S. plans include Aruba in their coverage. There may be extra charges for data. To avoid surprises, turn on "international roaming" before you leave. You can also buy a local SIM card at the airport. Free Wi-Fi is available at most hotels and restaurants.

Real Family Vacation Examples

Let's look at two sample itineraries. These can help you plan your days.

Sample Itinerary for a Family with Young Children (Ages 3-7)

Day 1: Arrive at the airport. Pick up your rental car. Check into your hotel. Go to the pool. Have a relaxed dinner at the hotel.

Day 2: Morning at Eagle Beach. Build sandcastles. Swim in the calm water. Afternoon nap at the hotel. Evening at the Bon Bini Festival.

Day 3: Visit the Butterfly Farm in the morning. Have lunch nearby. Afternoon at Baby Beach. Let the kids play in the shallow water.

Day 4: Take a glass bottom boat tour in the morning. See the fish without getting wet. Afternoon relaxing at the hotel pool. Order pizza for dinner.

Day 5: Visit the Donkey Sanctuary. Pet and feed the donkeys. Have a picnic lunch. Afternoon shopping in Oranjestad.

Day 6: Morning at Arikok National Park. Take a short, easy hike. See the natural pool. Afternoon packing and last-minute swimming.

Day 7: Last morning at the beach. Return the rental car. Fly home.

Sample Itinerary for a Family with Teens

Day 1: Arrive and check in. Explore Palm Beach. Try jet skiing or parasailing. Dinner at a beachfront restaurant.

Day 2: Go snorkeling at Arashi Beach or take a snorkel boat tour to the Antilla wreck. Afternoon at the hotel's water park. Evening visit to a casino (for parents) or arcade (for teens).

Day 3: Take the Atlantis Submarine adventure. Have lunch in Oranjestad. Afternoon shopping for souvenirs. Evening at the movies (many films are in English).

Day 4: Rent a jeep and explore Arikok National Park. Visit the Quadirikiri Cave. Hike to the natural bridge. Have a barbecue dinner.

Day 5: Try windsurfing or kitesurfing lessons (Aruba is famous for wind sports). Relax on the beach in the afternoon. Go to a nice restaurant for dinner.

Day 6: Visit the Ostrich Farm. Take an aloe vera factory tour. Afternoon at the beach for final photos. Pack your bags.

Day 7: Enjoy a final breakfast. Do some last-minute shopping. Head to the airport.

Conclusion: Your Unforgettable Aruba Family Adventure Awaits

Aruba is a wonderful place for a family vacation. It is safe, clean, and welcoming. The weather is perfect. The beaches are stunning. There are activities for all ages. You can relax or seek adventure. You can learn about nature and culture. Planning is key to a great trip. Choose the right time to visit. Book a family-friendly hotel. Rent a car to explore. Pack plenty of sunscreen.

Remember the highlights: Eagle Beach for soft sand, Baby Beach for toddlers, Arikok Park for hiking, and the submarine for underwater fun. Try local food. Talk to the friendly Aruban people. Most importantly, spend quality time with your family. Create memories that will last a lifetime. Aruba's motto is "One Happy Island." You and your family will leave feeling happy and relaxed. Start planning your Aruba family vacation today. Your perfect Caribbean getaway is waiting for you. For more travel inspiration, check out our other Caribbean island guides.