For some parents, choosing a vacation destination can be a big challenge. You need to find a balance between rest for adults and fun for the kids. Aruba is the perfect choice for both situations, filled with tours and activities that combine the best of both worlds.

The fun at the island’s incredible resorts is just the beginning. Families looking for something beyond a traditional Caribbean experience will discover numerous attractions and special activities.

Most hotels in Aruba are part of the One Happy Family program, which benefits families with lodging and free breakfast for children under 12 years and sharing a room with parents, as well as discounts on special activities.

Check out a list of activities and attractions for families to enjoy the island, which is considered the happiest in the world.

1 – Catamaran and snorkeling

The catamaran rides are fun guaranteed! The route has stops for participants to refresh themselves in the waters and to dive in unusual points. In one of them it is possible to swim above a wrecked ship of World War II, the Antilla. Several companies have this type of service and it is very easy to find them on the edge of Palm Beach. The boats bring live music, bar and snacks. Full of excitement, the tour is ideal for families, who can soak in the crystal clear sea, explore the marine life with snorkeling or paddle with life jackets.

2 – From Palm Island

Those who want to escape the traditional itinerary and still soak up the sun can opt for De Palm Island. The island has an exclusive beach that houses a real amusement park to give the perfect dose of action for the trip. Visitors can enjoy an incredible water park filled with water slides, banana boat rides and even a stroll with the Sea Trek Submarine. It is still possible to relax in the lounge chairs and enjoy the best view of the Caribbean Sea.

3 – Baby Beach

This is the perfect beach for the kids. Paradisiac, it has crystal clear waters, white sand and one of the best places to enjoy a quiet day in Aruba. The waters of this beach are the shallowest and most transparent of Aruba, providing moments of carefree fun for parents and children. Located on the opposite side of the hotel zone, Baby Beach is a true Nature Oasis, away from the tourist center and is perfect for family picnics.

4 – Butterflies Farm

Located in Palm Beach, across from the Divi Aruba Phoenix Beach Resort, the Butterfly Farm is a tropical garden filled with butterflies from around the world. Children delight as they discover the miracle of metamorphosis, witnessing the new butterflies emerge from their cocoons and fly for the first time. Experts offer guided tours of 15 to 20 minutes, every day, revealing secrets of this fascinating species.

5 – Arikok National Park

Occupying almost 20% of the total area of ​​Aruba, the Arikok National Park is an environmental protection zone. An exciting leisure area for families looking for something more than a quiet day on the beach. People of all ages can enjoy and venture into the 32 miles of desert and terrain by renting a Jeep Safari, riding or doing trail walking. Located behind the rocky area to the north, Arikok National Park is home to many hidden beaches, cacti species, natural pools and bridges, historical paintings, flora and fauna, including owls and the blue lizard – typical of the region. The park’s visitor center offers a rich panorama of land culture, history and conservation efforts. Admission is free for children.

6 – Beach Tennis

Known as the birthplace of beach tennis, Aruba attracts world-renowned professionals and amateurs of the sport to have fun and compete on the island. Easy to play, the sport is very popular among families who enjoy exercise. Those who want to practice can book their tennis and rackets at Moomba Beach Bar & Grill for five dollars or venture into classes with local professionals.

7 – Ostrich Farm of Aruba

These birds found in Aruba the perfect climate to feel at home. Elegant and imposing, a stroll in the Ostrich Farm is fun guaranteed for both the small and the adult. Every half hour is offered guided tours, with professionals who teach about the details of the species, reproduction and eating habits of the largest birds in the world.

8 – Archaeological Museum of Aruba

It was originally the former family home of the famed World War II hero, Boy Ecury. The Archaeological Museum of Aruba opened in 1981 and is dedicated to educating visitors about the rich culture and history of the island ever since. Interactive museum activities and attractions bring the culture of Aruba to life in an interesting way for both children and adults. The modern building houses spaces dedicated to Amerindian culture and archaeological finds of various excavations around the island.

9 – Bubali Bird Sanctuary

More than 80 species of migratory birds are found in a veritable oasis of lush vegetation at the Bubali Bird Sanctuary. Admission is free and the place is ideal for parents and children to closely observe herons, seagulls, cormorants and countless species of ducks. The entrance is by a dirt road and tourists can still visit the great Dutch Red Mill at the entrance to Palm Beach.

10 – Sanctuary of Donkeys

Situated next to the unusual Ayo Rock rock formations, the Aruba Donkey Sanctuary takes care of approximately 90 animals in danger of extinction. Families who visit the place can help with the daily chores of the Sanctuary, such as feeding the animals. It is a great educational experience for children and adults alike.

Photos: Reproduction