When people think of Aruba, they often picture endless sunshine, turquoise waters, and palm-lined beaches—and while that’s all true, what surprised me most is just how kid-friendly the island is. From sandy play days to interactive animal encounters, Aruba is a Caribbean destination where parents can relax while kids explore. Here’s how we spent our family trip:

Eagle Beach: The Perfect Family Beach Day

Eagle Beach is Aruba’s most famous stretch of sand, and for good reason. With calm waves, soft white sand, and plenty of shaded palapas, it’s an ideal spot for kids to play safely. We spent hours building sandcastles, splashing in the gentle surf, and taking breaks under the trees. Unlike some busier beaches, Eagle Beach felt laid back and perfect for families who want space to spread out without worrying about crowds.

Pro tip: Pack snacks and water, but don’t stress too much—beachfront food trucks and small restaurants are nearby when little tummies start rumbling.

Renaissance Island: Flamingos and Family Adventures

One of the most unique things we did was visit Renaissance Island, a private island owned by the Renaissance Resort. While adults are drawn by the famous flamingos, families will love that there are actually two sides of the island: one designed for adults and another that’s perfectly set up for kids.

Our kids loved watching iguanas, splashing in the shallow waters, and playing in the sand. And yes—the flamingos make for an unforgettable photo moment, even if the kids were more interested in chasing minnows in the water. And yes, you can still see the flamingos on the family side of the island!

The Aruba Ostrich Farm & Animal Encounters

The animal spot you might be thinking of is the Aruba Ostrich Farm, a surprisingly fun stop for families. Kids can get up close to these tall, curious birds, feed them with the help of a guide, and learn fun facts about their behavior. The farm also has other animals and a small petting area where little ones can interact more closely, making it a hit for children who love animals.

It’s educational, interactive, and a great change of pace from beach days. Go when it first opens thought as it gets quite toasty during the day!

Exploring Downtown Oranjestad

Taking the kids downtown was a highlight in its own right. Oranjestad is colorful, walkable, and full of Dutch-Caribbean charm. We strolled past pastel-painted buildings, stopped for ice cream (a must with little ones), and browsed small shops. The kids especially loved hopping on the free trolley that loops around the city—it’s both a fun ride and a convenient way to sightsee without tiring little legs.

Hunga Indoor Playground

For a break from the sun, Hunga Indoor Playground is the ultimate spot for kids to burn off energy. It’s a large, air-conditioned play space with climbing structures, slides, trampolines, and a toddler area designed for the littlest ones. Our kids loved running from one activity to the next, and we appreciated that it was safe, clean, and had plenty of seating for parents to relax while keeping an eye on them. It’s the perfect rainy-day backup plan or just a fun way to balance out all the beach time.

Final Thoughts

Aruba truly surprised me with how welcoming it is for families. Between the calm beaches, unique animal experiences, and colorful downtown, our kids were entertained from morning to night. And as parents, we appreciated that Aruba is safe, easy to get around, and full of kid-friendly spots that made traveling with little ones a breeze.

If you’re dreaming of a Caribbean trip that’s fun for the whole family, Aruba might just be your perfect match.