20 Things to Do in Aruba with Kids

There is nothing more attractive than the white sandy beaches and the turquoise waters in Aruba.

Aruba is a Caribbean Island far from the city’s fast and tiring life. It is a great destination for relaxation and rejuvenation. When it comes to vacation, who is thinking of something different than a distant and beautiful getaway?

Aruba is also known as “One Happy Island”, which offers magnificent attractions and landmarks, along with fascinating landscapes, waterfalls, and limitless fun activities. 

However, is Aruba a family and kid-friendly destination? The answer is definitely yes! There are far more things to do in Aruba with kids than just visiting the beautiful beaches.

Aruba is an amazing destination, and you can create the perfect to-do list for a family vacation of a lifetime.

After all, Aruba is one of the safest places in the Caribbean for holidays, with low rates of both violent and petty crime.

Things To Do in Aruba with Kids list

1. Find the perfect beach

things to do in Aruba with kids
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You may be able to find a lot more activities in Aruba than find the perfect beach.

However, it is really tempting to explore all the white sandy beaches and the turquoise waters in order to find the best place for you and your young ones. 

Finding the best things means that you care about the find the perfect place for entertainment. One of the best places to be is the Palm Beach or Eagle Beach.

Palm Beach is a high-end beach that houses some of the biggest hotel and restaurant chains. That kind of holiday is a bit top end for a family regular budget.

However, Eagle Beach may be a bit further from the coast, but it seems like the most beautiful and affordable place to spend your family vacations.

Eagle Beach is a ‘low-rise’ zone with smaller hotels, and fewer facilities but it’s a lot more quiet, and your kids will definitely love it. 

2. Snorkel at Baby beach 

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Baby Beach is one of the most well-known beaches in Aruba. It’s a beach famous for its calm and shallow waters. As its name recommends “Baby Beach” is even suitable for babies

Baby Beach is a great option for your little ones as the beach slopes gently into the waves, and the water is crystal-clear and warm. 

It is worth mentioning that Baby Beach is the best beach for new snorkellers. There are many reviews from people who let their little ones have their first snorkelling experience on the beach.

Near the centre of the beach are patches of seagrass and little silvery fish, whereas further out is a much richer marine life with dazzlingly coloured fish swimming beneath the waves.

However, you need to know that there aren’t many shades at the beach, so if you are planning to spend a whole day at the beach it’s better to bring your own umbrellas and not depend on the few trees and palm umbrellas that you’ll find on the beach. 

3. Visit De Palm Island

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If you are planning to stay in Aruba, one of the most famous things to do with your little ones is visiting De Palm Island.

De Palm Island is one of the top touristy destinations in Aruba, and it offers plenty of fun activities for all ages.

De Palm private island is located 5 minutes on a boat from the quay near Oranjestad. If you are planning an organised tour, then the transfer is always included.

De Palma Island is quite small, but it can definitely occupy all. Some of the most well-known activities on the beach are snorkelling and watching the flamingos. 

If you are visiting the island with kids 8 years old and above, you can do scuba, visit Sea Trek (unique undersea helmets to explore the underwater), do the zip wire and try a banana boat.

If you are not that active, De Palm Island has an open bar, with food included, for all the tastes.

You can start by having your favourite breakfast and then try the buffet and grill. Keep in mind though that there are few vegetarian options on the menu. 

4. Kayak at Mangel Halto

Mangel Halto Beach is one of the most picturesque beaches in Aruba. Mangel Halto has five separate shades of blue in the waters.

You can discover new places that are usually inaccessible with kayak boats. 

When travelling with a kayak is far more possible to see the unique marine life of the sea. 

A kayak tour in Mangel Halto will let you and your family stay away from the regular paths and will give you an ultimate and unique experience.

Another great activity to do is snorkel at a reef home to tropical fish and colourful coral.

Mangel Halto Barrier Reef is an amazing destination for guided snorkelling.

On the edge of the reef, you will find species including parrotfish, yellowtail snapper, sergeant majors, and blue tangs, along with deep water gorgonians, sponges and anemones.

5. Take a cruise

There are plenty of theme boats in Aruba that can offer you a unique cruise experience. In Aruba, you can find pirate-themed boats, sunset cruises and plenty more.

However, at the end of your day, you should think of adding a bit of snorkelling. 

When it comes to themed cruises in Aruba, you can choose between, Jolly Pirate Morning Sail and Snorkel Cruise, Jolly Pirate Sunset Sail and Jolly Pirate Afternoon Sail and Snorkel Cruise.

Aruba has plenty of magnificent spots to visit with your kids and let them explore the wonderful marine life. However, watching the sunset like the Caribbean pirates of the past can definitely give a whole new feeling to your holidays. 

6. Submarine Tours

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Aruba’s underwater world is one of the most beautiful in the world. So, the Submarine tour can give you the option to explore the bottom without getting wet.

It is one of the safest experiences in Aruba and it is suitable for all ages. So why don’t you think of giving your little ones the most fascinating experience in their lives?

Pick one of the certified submarine tours and get views of the underwater world, including the Arashi Reef and The Antilla, a WWII German shipwreck.

Trips are usually around 90 minutes, and it is the greatest option for those who don’t want to snorkel.

Apart from that Aruba’s submarine tours have no age limit and they are available for all children above 2 years old. 

7. Visit the Butterfly farm

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If you want a natural experience some steps away from Palm Beach, you should visit the charming Butterfly Farm. The Butterfly farm is a great experience for children of all ages. 

Aruba’s Butterfly Farm is a great encounter with nature, and it has to offer beauty and diversity.

Take your children and visit the tropical garden which is teeming with butterflies. Butterflies are considered the world’s most colourful creatures.

On the farm, you will be able to observe the life cycle of those colourful animals. The experienced tour guides will help you and your young ones have the most fascinating natural experience. 

8. Visit the Donkey Sanctuary

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Aruba Donkey Sanctuary may not be an original native place in Aruba; however, it exists for 500 years as transportation to the island.

After the Arubans didn’t need the donkeys anymore, most of them have been abandoned. 

However, around 20 years ago, decided to build a sanctuary and protect the donkeys.

Finally, the donkeys become safe and found a new home. Discovering the donkey’s sanctuary is a great place to feed and explore the inhabitants. 

Of course, there is a small cafe where you can freshen up and also take a small break from the exploration.

It is worth mentioning that some of the organised tours on the island have a planned tour on the Donkey’s Sanctuary. 

9. Feed the Ostriches

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There are guided tours every 15 minutes, and you have the opportunity to learn everything about the ostriches. In the ostriches’ tours, kids have the opportunity to become brave and feed one of them.

Some of the ostriches may come to you in order to give them a peck on the head. 

Keep in mind that you better not try to outrun an ostrich. 

10. Visit Philip’s Animal Garden

Philip’s Animal Garden is founded in 2009 and is the only non-profit organisation that rescues and houses native exotic animals in Aruba.

If you are searching for a family activity in Aruba then Philip’s Garden Animal Garden can offer you the greatest experience. 

Your children will have the opportunity to enjoy creatures that have never seen before.

Do you want then to experience a real natural experience? Then Philip’s Animal Garden will teach them how to cater to all the various species in the area.

Philip’s Animal Garden is recommended for all kids above 3 years old. 

11. Tour on the Archaeological Museum Aruba

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The National Archaeological Museum of Aruba is one of the most fascinating infrastructures in the heart of Oranjestad.

The Archaeological Museum houses some of the oldest artefacts in the world. 

It is recommended for all families that want to learn about the great history of the island.

Take your little ones and travel back to 2500 BCE with the rare collection of this museum.

The Archaeological Museum also offer some kid-friendly activities in Aruba.

Some of the most well-known are the comprehensive narrative about the Arawak People and the exploration of the 10,000 Amerindian artefacts that are aged over the historical eras of the Pre-Ceramic.

12. Beach Safari 

One of the best family things to do in Aruba is the Jeep Safari. The Jeep Safari will allow you and your children to explore the fascinating landscapes along with the crystal blue waters of this beautiful Southern Caribbean Island.

There are loads of places to take kids to Aruba, and a Jeep tour will let you see them all.

The island is filled with majestic scenery and there are tons of things to do for kids. El Tours Jeep Safaris offer some amazing experiences for the whole family!

Learn about the historical importance of the island without worrying about your convenience

El Tours Jeep Safari is suitable for families with children of all ages.

13. Bubali Bird Sanctuary

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If you are planning to visit Aruba with your family, then you definitely plan your visit to Bubali’s Bird Sanctuary. This immersive experience takes you deep into the wetlands of the island.

At the Sanctuary you can do some birdwatching and also enjoy the Bubali Pond.

The Bubali Bird Sanctuary protects different species of birds like pelicans, black cormorants, wood storks and sandpipers.

It is a cheap family activity that will allow you to watch 80 different bird species.

Perhaps while visiting the Sanctuary, you can even see the ethereal birds in their natural habitats soaring and flapping their wings as you climb the observation towers.

14. Horseback Riding Tours

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Horseback riding tours are the experience of your dreams. Enjoy the sunset on the back of a beautiful and trained horse.

Gold Mine Ranch Horseback Riding Tours offers an amazing experience for the whole family.

Aruba offers the captivating landscapes and waterfronts that it is worth visiting with your little ones. 

Ride the horse and visit the magical beaches on the northeast coast and the Hidden Valley & Lagoon. There are more than 7 spots that you can visit while horse-riding. 

It’s an exciting adventure that it is recommended for kids older than 7 years old.

15. Discover Guadirikiri Caves

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In the Guadirikiri Caves, you can see incredible stalactites and stalagmitesancient Indian rock carvings and jaw-dropping structures.

Guadirikiri Cave is mostly known for its two large chambers which are enlightened with sunlight through some small natural holes.

The cave is extended into a large area of about 100 feet. Explore the champers and watch the nest of hundreds of harmless bats.

Guadirikiri Caves are suitable for older kids, aged above 5 years old.

16. Arikok National Park

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Arikok National Park covers approximately 20% of the whole island of Aruba and it is considered one of the most famous and must-see destinations on the island. It is a great experience for the whole family!

Arikok National Park is harsh terrain with desert-like hills and a plethora of tall cacti.

Beyond its unique geological and historical sites, the park provides a wide variety of educational and informative activities for children.

It’s a trip for all youngers that want to create a memorable experience. 

17. Aruba Surf and Paddle School

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If you have slightly older kids then the best activity that you can plan is visiting the Aruba Surf and Paddle school and learning how to master the waves. 

In Aruba Surf & Paddle School teachers have 20 years of experience in the field and they are the best people that can teach you how to tame the stunning waves.

The worst choice that you can do in Aruba is to try to surf and paddle on the waves by yourself. It may seem amazing and challenging, and it can be proven disastrous. 

Take your kids to Aruba’s Surf and Paddle School and show them a fun and safe way to become active and adventurous on the sea. 

Enjoy the Caribbean Ocean, beach life, and island scenery as you glide peacefully along the enthralling shores.

This amazing opportunity is suitable for kids older than 7 years old.

18. Try Linda’s Dutch Pancakes

Searching for the best meal is one of the most challenging activities to in with your kids.

Linda’s Dutch Pancakes can save you from all the hassle as it can offer you the most delicious pancakes

Linda’s Dutch Pancakes is located in the heart of Aruba and it is ready to serve a delicious breakfast and pastries that will keep you and your little ones full the whole day.

The serving sizes are really huge and you can fill them with the toppings of your choice

Are you ready for the perfect dining experience?

19. Climb the Ayo Rock Formation

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The Ayo Rock Formation is located 3.2km away from the Ayo village, and it is considered one of the most magnificent locations on the island.

It is a place that will leave you speechless. Are you ready to be impressed by the weird rock structures in the Ayo Rock Formation? Then plan your tour as soon as you get to the island.

The Ayo Rock Formation is a great place to experience the beautiful gardens along with the smells of the blossom flowers and the voice of the birds. The Ayo Rock Formation is considered an attraction for both tourists and locals. 

It is easy to climb to the top and enjoy the panoramic view of the shores and the massive park that spreads right beneath the hill. 

20. Eagle Aruba Resort & Casino

As we already mentioned Eagle beach is a great location for a family vacation.

But the Eagle Aruba resort and casino is the best resort to make your vacation comfortable and luxurious

Choose if you want to take a dip dive on the resort’s pool or go straight to the beach which is located 5 minutes away.

The Eagle Aruba Resort and Casino has plenty of facilities, like restaurants and entertainment sections that are suitable for kids of all ages

The resort is open and ready to welcome all families. Are you ready to live the extraordinary experience?

Aruba is an excellent location for family holidays as it has plenty of activities suitable for kids of all ages.

Whether you’d like to relax on sandy and magnificent beaches, interact with local wildlife, explore national parks, or take a submarine tour, there’s something for everyone.

As parents, you should build memorable experiences with your little ones. Are you ready to enjoy the perfect holidays in Aruba? Choose your favourite activities and get started.