Top 11 Tours and Activities To Do in Aruba For Families With Kids

If you’re thinking of a Caribbean Family Holiday, Aruba would be one of the best options. Aruba is a perfect vacation destination in the Caribbean for families with children. There are numerous kid-friendly tours and activities on the island for families with children. Besides the many shallow shores and clear blue waters, there are plenty of other fun activities in Aruba for kids, but also the rest of the family.

We made a list for you of the most fun family things to do in Aruba with kids to make your vacation planning a little easier.

1. Seaworld Explorer Semi-Submarine

One of the best things to do in Aruba with kids is going on an adventure in a Seaworld Explorer Semi-Submarine. Originally used for research on Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, This Semi-Submarine stays 5ft below the surface with the hull to give you fantastic views, so you can explore the underwater world without totally submerging.
An expert guide will take guests through the depths of the breathtaking Arashi Reef and the Antilla shipwreck for just under two hours! Kids just love this surreal underwater experience. You can spot fish, sea turtles, and other native sea animals in the largest shipwreck in the Caribbean. Not only will the experience be educational, but it’ll also be fun for the entire family!

2. Visit the Butterfly farm

The Aruba butterfly farm is a fun morning activity for kids before heading to the beach. The butterfly farm is a tropical garden filled with butterflies, where you can witness their life cycle. A knowledgeable guide will teach your kids everything about the habits and metamorphosis of these beautiful butterflies.
The butterfly garden is a gat place to take some beautiful pictures If you arrive in the morning you might witness new butterflies emerging from their chrysalis and taking their first flight.
Your ticket includes free return entrance for the rest of your stay in Aruba!

3. Donkey Sanctuary

Visit the Donkey Sanctuary where you can feed and pet the donkeys from the enclosed porch. This conservation facility is working since 1997 to shelter and rehabilitate Aruba’s small population of donkeys, whose ancestors were originally brought to the island 500 years ago for agricultural work.
The donkeys love apples and carrots, so feel free to bring some along. This experience is a great learning opportunity for kids and these sweet donkeys will reward any affection with lots of love.
There is no admission fee, though donations are greatly appreciated so the volunteers can continue to take care of the donkey family.
Opening times: every day from 9 am till 4 pm

4. Feed the ostriches at the Aruba Ostrich Farm

The ostrich farm is another great informative and interactive activity to do in Aruba with kids. There are guided tours every 30 minutes throughout the day, with many facts to learn about the emus and ostriches. If you’re brave enough, you can feed the not-so-shy ostriches.
The farm has also an Art Shop and a Lodge Bar & Restaurant where you can enjoy a home-cooked meal.

5. Ayo Rock Formation

Located inland, Aruba’s Ayo and Casibari rock formations offer a fun opportunity for kids to climb and explore. Discover historic petroglyphs made by Aruba’s native Arawak people and say hi to the family of goats who make themselves at home among the rocks.

6. Guadirikiri Caves — Arikok National Park

Explore the Guadirikiri Caves which are famous for their two large chambers which are impressively illuminated by the sunlight streaming through holes in the roof of the cave.
In this beautiful natural wonder in Aruba, you’ll be mesmerized by the amazing stalactites & stalagmites, ancient Indian rock carvings, jaw-dropping structures, and hundreds of harmless bats.
Guadirikiri Caves exploring is recommended for children age 5 and up.

7. Climb the California lighthouse

Near Aruba’s northwestern tip you’ll find the California Lighthouse overlooking the beautiful Arashi beach. The lighthouse was named for the steamship wrecked nearby at the end of the 19th century on its journey from Liverpool to Central America.
The many steps to the top of the lighthouse will reward you and your family with stellar views of the island and the Caribbean sea.

8. Snorkeling tour

What’s a family trip to Aruba without experiencing the tropical underwater sea life? There are several snorkel excursion companies in Aruba, most provide snorkel equipment and life jackets as well. Choose for a private boat snorkel excursion or a sailing cruise.

9, De Palm Island

De Palm Island is a private island a few minutes from Aruba’s western shore, with many great activities for kids to do. A ticket for De Palm Island includes a boat ride to get to the island, snorkel equipment, a water play area with slides, and unlimited banana boat rides. Also included are a lunch buffet, an open bar, and a snack corner. Children can play on the beach and shallow waters for hours.
There is also the option to upgrade at an additional cost for activities for children age 8 and up, such as SeaTrek and/or SNUBA. They also offer beach massages, hair braiding, temporary tattoos, and there is a store located on the island.

10. Kayak at Mangel Halto

One of the most beautiful places in Aruba is Mangel Halto. This picturesque secluded beach is a perfect snorkeling and kayak spot in Aruba with calm, shallow waters and a rich mangrove forest full of wildlife.

11. Hobie Cat

An amazing activity in Aruba for families with kids is gliding around the water on a Hobie Cat with a captain. The ease and comfort of this boat make it a breeze for a day on the water. The clarity of the water will allow your kids to spot all kinds of fish and if lucky a sea turtle.
If you bring snorkeling gear your kids can jump overboard for some snorkeling fun too!