15 Best Family-Friendly Things to Do in Aruba With Kids
Aruba is an amazing destination for families, with its warm weather, friendly people, and countless activities for kids of all ages. From breathtaking beaches to fun-filled animal encounters, Aruba has something for everyone.
This island in the Caribbean offers many safe and exciting places where children can play, learn, and make memories. If you’re planning a family trip to Aruba, here are 15 of the best things to do that everyone will enjoy.
Relax at Eagle Beach
Eagle Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Aruba and is perfect for families. With its soft, white sand and gentle waves, it’s an ideal spot for kids to play and swim safely. Parents can relax under beach umbrellas while watching the kids build sandcastles or splash in the shallow water.
The beach also has convenient facilities nearby, making it easy to spend a full day there. You can rent beach chairs and even enjoy a picnic lunch on the shore. Families love Eagle Beach for its beauty and family-friendly atmosphere.
Explore Arikok National Park
Arikok National Park offers families a chance to explore Aruba’s natural beauty and history. This park covers nearly 20% of the island, featuring caves, stunning views, and wildlife unique to Aruba. Kids will enjoy spotting lizards, birds, and maybe even a snake or two in a safe, natural environment.
Some areas of the park have ancient cave paintings, which can spark curiosity about Aruba’s early history. Make sure to wear good shoes and bring water, as the park can be hot. Guided tours are available and can help families learn even more about the park’s wonders.
Visit the Butterfly Farm
The Butterfly Farm in Aruba is a magical experience for kids and adults alike. As you step inside, you’ll find yourself surrounded by beautiful butterflies from all over the world. Kids will love watching the butterflies up close, and the staff offers educational tours to teach everyone about the life cycle of these colorful creatures.
It’s a peaceful place where families can enjoy nature together and even get tips for attracting butterflies at home. The Butterfly Farm also has a small gift shop with fun souvenirs. This is a must-see stop for nature-loving families.
Snorkel at Baby Beach
Baby Beach is known for its shallow, calm waters, making it a fantastic snorkeling spot for beginners. This protected beach area is ideal for young swimmers and offers a safe place to explore underwater. Kids can swim with colorful fish close to the shore, which can be an unforgettable experience for them.
The beach is shaped like a lagoon, so parents can relax while keeping an eye on their little snorkelers. You can rent snorkel gear nearby, and there are food options if you want to grab a snack. It’s the perfect spot for a fun, family-friendly water adventure.
See the Donkey Sanctuary
Aruba’s Donkey Sanctuary is a hit with animal-loving kids. The sanctuary cares for rescued donkeys and allows families to interact with these gentle animals in a safe environment. Kids can pet and feed the donkeys while learning about the sanctuary’s mission to protect them.
It’s a unique experience that lets children get up close to animals they may not encounter at home. The sanctuary is open daily, and admission fees go toward caring for the animals. This outing is both educational and heartwarming for the whole family.
Tour the Aruba Aloe Factory and Museum
The Aruba Aloe Factory and Museum is a great spot to learn about Aruba’s long history with aloe vera. Kids will enjoy seeing how aloe is grown, harvested, and turned into products that help soothe skin. The guided tour is both fun and informative, offering insights into how aloe is used and its benefits.
Visitors can sample products and even pick up some aloe items to take home. The tour is short and engaging, making it perfect for kids’ shorter attention spans. It’s a memorable experience and a chance to learn something new.
Watch Flamingos on Renaissance Island
Renaissance Island is a private island with beautiful beaches and unique wildlife, including a group of friendly flamingos. Families can visit the island and take photos with the flamingos, which often roam freely along the beach. Kids will love being close to these colorful birds, and it’s an incredible photo opportunity.
There’s also plenty of space for swimming, relaxing, and even enjoying lunch at the beach bar. Access to Renaissance Island is available through the Renaissance Aruba Resort, but day passes can be purchased as well. This is a one-of-a-kind experience that’s fun for everyone.
Visit Philip’s Animal Garden
Philip’s Animal Garden is a rescue center that is home to a wide variety of animals, including monkeys, parrots, and iguanas. Kids can feed some of the animals and learn about their rescue stories, which can be both entertaining and educational.
The garden offers guided tours, and the staff is always happy to share information about the animals and the center’s work. It’s a great way to introduce kids to exotic animals in a safe environment. The garden also has picnic areas, so you can relax and have lunch after the tour. This visit is a highlight for many animal-loving families.
Take a Submarine Tour with Atlantis Submarines
For an unforgettable adventure, families can explore Aruba’s underwater world without getting wet. The Atlantis Submarine takes passengers on a dive below the surface, allowing everyone to see coral reefs, shipwrecks, and marine life up close.
Kids will be thrilled to look out the windows and see fish swimming just inches away. The submarine has comfortable seating and is fully air-conditioned, making it a comfortable trip. It’s an educational experience that’s also exciting and memorable. This is a must-do activity for families who love the ocean.
Discover Gold Ruins at Bushiribana
The Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins offer a glimpse into Aruba’s gold mining history. This abandoned gold mill was once part of Aruba’s bustling gold industry, and it’s an exciting spot for kids to explore.
Families can wander through the ruins, learn about the history of the site, and enjoy views of the coastline. It’s a short drive from the main tourist areas and is a unique spot for family photos. Kids will enjoy climbing around and imagining life during Aruba’s gold rush days. The ruins are a fun mix of history and adventure for all ages.
Visit the California Lighthouse
The California Lighthouse is one of Aruba’s most iconic landmarks, offering stunning views of the island and the ocean. Families can climb to the top of the lighthouse for a panoramic view that’s worth the effort. Kids will love the adventure of climbing the spiral staircase, and the view from the top is breathtaking.
The area around the lighthouse also has some great photo spots, and there’s often a breeze to cool you down. It’s a great outing for families who enjoy sightseeing and learning about Aruba’s history. The nearby restaurant is a nice bonus for a post-tour treat.
Check Out the Aruba Ostrich Farm
The Aruba Ostrich Farm gives kids a chance to learn about ostriches and see them up close. Families can take a guided tour, where they’ll learn fun facts about these large, fascinating birds. Kids can even feed the ostriches with the help of the staff, which is a big thrill.
The farm also has a gift shop and a small restaurant serving unique dishes for those feeling adventurous. It’s a memorable and educational outing, perfect for an afternoon trip. The farm provides a great mix of fun and learning for animal-loving families.
Try Windsurfing at Fisherman’s Huts
Fisherman’s Huts is a popular spot for windsurfing and is known for its calm, shallow waters. Families with adventurous kids will love trying out this exciting water sport. Several nearby schools offer beginner lessons and equipment rentals, making it easy for first-timers.
It’s a fun way for kids to experience Aruba’s famous winds while trying something new. Parents can watch from the beach or join in on the fun. Whether you’re a pro or a beginner, windsurfing at Fisherman’s Huts is an unforgettable experience.
Take a Jeep Tour Across the Island
A Jeep tour is a great way to explore Aruba’s rugged terrain and see parts of the island you might miss otherwise. Families can book guided tours that take them to exciting places like natural pools, hidden beaches, and the rocky Arikok National Park. Kids will enjoy the thrill of the bumpy ride and seeing Aruba’s landscapes up close.
It’s an exciting way to see the island’s hidden gems and learn about Aruba’s unique geography. Many tours include stops for swimming and snorkeling. This adventurous outing is perfect for families with older kids.
Enjoy Family-Friendly Dining at The West Deck
The West Deck is a family-friendly restaurant located on the beach, offering great food with a fantastic view. The menu features Aruban dishes that kids and adults will love, with plenty of options for picky eaters. Families can enjoy their meal while watching the sunset, creating a memorable dining experience.
The relaxed, open-air setting makes it a comfortable place to unwind after a day of exploring. Kids can play on the sand nearby while parents enjoy a laid-back meal. It’s the perfect spot to end a day of adventure in Aruba.
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