Discover Aruba: A Family Friendly Destination

Looking for a family friendly destination? Gather everyone and hop on a plane to Aruba. When you arrive, you’ll be greeted by the warm smiles of friendly Arubans. The multi-cultural country includes people from South America (primarily Colombia, Venezuela and Peru), other Caribbean islands, Chinese, Philippines, and even 17 different African countries. You’ll have fun getting to know the locals and learning about their different backgrounds. While you stay in Aruba, you can participate in activities such as horseback riding, scuba diving, snorkeling, and cycling tours. Keep reading to learn why Aruba will be your next family vacation.

Why Choose Aruba for Your Family Vacation?

Beach Life

Aruba has white sandy beaches with crystal clear waters that will mesmerize the entire family. Pack a picnic lunch and head to Eagle Beach, which is across from several hotels. Palm Beach is another family friendly beach. Baby Beach is located at the southeastern end of the island and offers families a peaceful swimming cove. You may want to stay away from Rodgers Beach because the surf can be rough. If family members are experienced swimmers, you may consider taking them to this beach. But use your best judgment.

Fun Outings

Take a guided, narrated underwater tour in a submarine or semi-submarine. Not only will you see various sea creatures, exquisite coral reefs, and shipwrecks, but you’ll enjoy learning about the watery life in Aruba. Of course, you may opt for a scuba diving adventure. Keep in mind that age restrictions may apply. If you have first-time divers, they may take a “resort course” to learn the necessary skills to complete one 30-foot dive. Family members who are land lovers will appreciate visiting Aruba’s Butterfly Farm where they can encounter butterflies from around the world. You may want to arrive early, so you can see butterflies take their first flight. Get your camera or smartphone ready to capture the beautiful moment.

Family Resorts

There are plenty of accommodations for you and your family. For example, the Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort, located in front of Eagle Beach, offers many amenities. You can shop at the mini-market or gift shop (buy souvenirs). If you bring your electronics, you can use the free WiFi. Need to do laundry? No problem. The resort offers guest laundry and a dry-cleaning service. Relax by the freshwater pool or take the kids to the kiddie pool.

Playa Linda Beach Resort is the Travelers’ Choice® 2015 Winner in the Family category. Consider it your home away from home while you’re vacationing in Aruba. It’s located on Palm Beach and overlooks six miles of Caribbean coastline. The resort offers a Kid’s Club for kids from 4-12.The activities schedule varies and may include story time, movie and pizza night, t-shirt coloring, and more. Teens will enjoy horseback riding, paddle boarding, windsurfing, a real life board game, ping pong tournament, and more. Moms and dads will enjoy yoga classes, shopping, beach restaurants, and more. See that. There’s something for everyone!

The family will enjoy staying at the Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort and Casino. Family activities include a video arcade, daily games, and water sports. Make sure kids check out Camp Hyatt Watapana where they can partake in pool games and arts and crafts along with meeting new friends. While they’re being watched by trained camp counselors, you can sneak off to the spa and get a relaxing massage or facial or both or have a romantic dinner for two on a sailboat.

Plan Your Family Vacation to Aruba

Now that you know why Aruba is a great family vacation destination, it’s time to contact your TPI travel agent and have him or her plan your trip. If you’re worried about the distance, you can fly direct non-stop to Aruba from the U.S., Canada, South America, Europe, and Columbia into Queen Beatrix International Airport. When you arrive, you’ll be greeted with, “Bon Bini” – Welcome to Aruba!” Don’t worry about getting around because public transportation, car rentals, taxis, and tour operators who shuttle guests between the airport and hotels are available. Finally, before you leave for your Aruba family vacation, you may want to learn the official languages such as Dutch and the local language of Papiamentu (Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch, English, and French). The locals will appreciate your attempt to speak their language. Bon voyage!
by Amandah T. Blackwell, Savvy-Writer