Top 10 kid-friendly activities in Aruba

‘One happy island’ – this is the motto of the gorgeous tropical island of Aruba, which makes a perfect choice for a holiday for the whole family. The weather is perfect all year round as this island gets the least rainfall in the Southern Caribbean and is also located outside of the Hurricane Belt – not the last thing to consider when travelling with kids. We have collected the top activities that are both fun and safe for kids as well as the whole family!
Top 10 kid-friendly activities in Aruba
What you will read about
  • Meet animals at the Butterfly Farm, Donkey Sanctuary, and Philip’s Animal Garden, fun and educational for kids.
  • Explore the ocean on a semi-submarine, Atlantis Submarine dive, or pirate ship snorkel cruise.
  • Try family adventures like horseback riding, Segway tours, and snorkeling at Malmok Beach or De Palm Island.
  • Enjoy cultural experiences at the weekly Bon Bini Festival with music, dance, and food.
  • De Palm Island offers an all-inclusive family escape with unlimited food, drinks, water sports, and relaxation.

1. Get to know the most spectacular exotic butterfly species at the Butterfly Farm

The farm is located in a lush tropical rainforest setting where these amazing creatures will be flying around you. It’s not only a beautiful place and a fun activity, but kids also get to learn about metamorphosis and the life of butterflies. 
Special tip: wear bright colors and citric cologne to attract more of these colorful creatures and take the best shots!
Opening times: from 8.30 am till 4.30 pm
More info

 

If you get there early, you can help with the daily chores of feeding and caring for the donkeys, a great and educational experience for children!
If you get there early, you can help with the daily chores of feeding and caring for the donkeys, a great and educational experience for children!

 

2. Make some new furry friends at the Donkey Sanctuary

Donkeys have been around for 500 years in Aruba and were used for transportation. Unfortunately, a serious disease in the 1970's almost drove the wild donkeys of the island to extinction. Thankfully they have a safe home at the Sanctuary today where they have been taken excellent care of. Visitors are welcome to take part in the daily care of donkeys.These sweet animals will reward any affection with lots of love. It’s a great learning opportunity for kids. 
Opening times: every day from 9 am till 4 pm
More info

 

3. Explore life underwater at the Seaworld Semi-Submarine

The Arashi reef of Aruba is the home of the SS Antilla shipwreck that has been turned into a submerged observatory. Visitors get to enjoy a close encounter with marine life accompanied by insightful commentary from the guide. If your kids are fascinated by fishes or water, make sure not to miss this activity!

 

4. Take some horseback riding lessons and discover the beautiful beaches of the island

Take a new skill home with you as a souvenir or try out horseback riding as a new hobby. Explore the Aruban country side on the 7 different riding trails with different length and difficulty. Kids from 6 years old are welcome to join the family fun. You will receive safety instructions from a guide in advance.

 

5. Show some love to the rescued animals at Philip’s Animal Garden

Philip’s Animal Garden is a non-profit organization focusing on rescuing exotic animals around Aruba. Today they have a notable collection of exotic animals as well as a world-class animal shelter, providing care round-the-clock. You not only get to observe how these species in extinction are being protected but also get to interact, pet and feed them. You never know, it might be your support that makes a difference.
Opening times: from 9 am till 5 pm
More info

 

6. Take part in a real underwater expedition on board of the Atlantis Submarine

Who hasn’t dreamed about taking a journey underwater in a submarine? Experience what it’s like to dive 130 feet below the sea level while admiring the Barcadera Reef, local shipwrecks and the marine life. This U.S. Coast Guard-certified vessel provides a safe activity even for small children who hasn’t learnt to swim yet. Grab a window seat and get ready for the dive!

 

7. Sail like a pirate on the Caribbean Sea

Hunt for the best snorkeling spots around Aruba on a real pirate ship! Snorkel around the famous World War II shipwreck, the SS Antilla and go for a swim at Boca Catalina. There is also an on-board rope swing where you can perfect your Tarzan skills. Of course, they haven’t forgotten about parents, either. They will be treated to an open bar along the journey.

 

8. Dance the night away at the Bon Bini Festival

Luckily the Bon Bini Festival is an event that takes place every week on Tuesday at the Historical Museum of Aruba. Watch local dancers, taste local food and take a deep dive into the Aruban culture!

More info

 

9. Explore Malmok Beach on wheels on a Segway Tour

Learn how to operate Segways and set off for a 1-hour long journey around the beautiful Malmok Beach. Take your official family photo at Boca Catalina beach and enjoy a complimentary drink. Kids from 10 years are welcome to take part in the activity.

 

10. Treat your family to a peaceful getaway to De Palm Island

De Palm Island is a unique coral island that hosts an endless array of beach and water activities for the whole family. Escape the routine of your hotel and treat the family with a day of unlimited food, beverage, activities and fun. Tireless kids will find great fun in the limitless banana boat rides or meeting blue parrot fish and other marine life while snorkeling, whereas, parents will be treated to chilling drinks and free sunbeds on the shore.

Do you have an other question?
Ask previous travelers in our private Facebook group.
Profile
Levente
Your Carib Expert
Help me keep going

Creating this travel magazine takes an insane amount of time and money. If you’ve found it useful and would like to support me in helping other travelers like you, your donation would go a long way. Thanks, you’re the best!

Friendly stranger
$5
Prices are in USD
or
You can also help for free in two simple ways!
1
Follow me on social media: It helps more than you would think.
2
Click any / all links below: I might get a tiny reward for bringing traffic.
1
Follow me on social media:
It helps more than you would think.
2
Click any / all links below:
I might get a tiny reward for bringing traffic.
Traveling to Aruba? You’re going to love these!
Excursions
77 Activities
Itinerary
7-day & 24-hour plan
Weather
Best time to visit
Videos
Walking tours
Requirements
Visa, customs & more
Transportation
Get in, out & around
Useful info
Stats & facts

Related content

DISCOVER THE CARIBBEAN ISLANDS

Travel ideas for your next Caribbean holiday
Send us a messageBusiness Messenger by