Plan the Ultimate Family Fun Vacation in Aruba: All-Inclusive Hotels, Adventure & More

The One Happy Island of Aruba is coming up on many families’ bucket lists in 2025. As they start to plan their exciting getaways, families are seeking affordability, easy planning and unique, immersive natural experiences. Meanwhile, the island of Aruba has all that and much more for a family FUN vacation in the Caribbean. Read on to learn more about all-inclusive hotels and the many exciting activities on offer.

The One Happy Island of Aruba offers accommodations and more for family getaways

Located outside the hurricane belt, Aruba features all-year-round sunshine, idyllic white sand beaches, and many family-friendly activities. This makes for a stress-free, fun-filled escape for all ages. Meanwhile, the One Happy Island offers direct flights from many major US airports, including Miami (around a 2.5-hour flight) and New York (around a 4-hour flight).

Among the exciting activities, families can hike the terrain of Arikok National Park, uncover Aruba’s rich history, or kayak the calm waters of Mangel Halto to get an up-close and personal look at the island’s vibrant and colorful marine life.

When it comes to booking accommodations, Aruba is home to several all-inclusive resorts that offer the perfect blend of convenience, value, and family-friendly amenities, including Kids’ Clubs, and resorts where the little ones can stay and eat for free.

Where to stay on a family vacation in Aruba

Aruba offers a wide range of hotels, suitable for the whole family as follows:

Divi & Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusives

The Divi & Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusive Resorts are perfect for families and offer a fun-filled escape for all ages, on the beach and in the water. Meanwhile, kids aged 4 to 12 can have fun with the Sea Turtles Club while their parents relax. Moreover, family fun activities include arts and crafts, face painting, scavenger hunts, pool time, movie time, and much more.

Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort

The Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort offers families an enjoyable, laid-back yet engaging island getaway. The kids can challenge each other to oversized chess or connect four, build sandcastles on the beaches and explore marine life in the ocean with guided snorkeling adventures. Meanwhile, the unbeatable location on Aruba’s famous Palm Beach, the Hilton offers classic family fun with a side of luxury.

Holiday Inn Resort Aruba

Meanwhile, Holiday Inn Resort Aruba takes family fun to the next level with its dedicated Kids’ Club (ages 4-11), including exciting theme days, games, crafts, and more. Moreover, parents can unwind while their kids enjoy the on-site Activity Center, ping pong, tennis clinics, and a kid-friendly pool. Families can also enjoy complimentary bike rentals to explore the area together. The resort’s all-inclusive package includes daily meals, unlimited drinks, complimentary Wi-Fi, and special discounts, plus kids eat and stay free.

Riu Palace Aruba

Offering a vibrant, all-inclusive escape for families, Riu Palace Aruba is designed with families in mind. Kids ages 4-12 can enjoy fun-filled days at the supervised Kids’ Club, while the whole family get to enjoy multiple pools, including a dedicated kids’ pool. Moreover, they have direct access to an idyllic and beautiful white-sand beach. Meanwhile, the resort also offers exciting water activities, including kayaking, snorkeling, and stand-up paddleboarding. Moreover, Mom and Dad can unwind at the fitness center or casino, then together enjoy nightly shows and live music as part of Riu’s signature entertainment. Furthermore, diverse dining options and activities are available for all ages.

Divi Village Golf & Beach Resort

For a family all-inclusive experience for families, Divi Village Golf & Beach Resort offers a vibrant resort experience. Moreover, not only can families enjoy this vibrant resort, but they also have access to sister properties like Divi Dutch Village and Tamarijn Aruba via a complimentary shuttle. Children under five can stay and eat free at the resort, with each paying adult, making this a budget-friendly choice.

Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino

Endless family fun awaits at Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino on Palm Beach! The resort is home to Aruba’s largest spa and casino, and offers spacious ocean view rooms, direct beach access, large pools, and a swim-up bar. Moreover, active guests can enjoy new pickleball, tennis, and volleyball courts, and water sports including snorkeling and paddleboarding. Meanwhile, parents can unwind at the Mandara Spa or try their luck at the Stellaris Casino. This makes for an ideal blend of relaxation and adventure.

Fun and educational activities for the whole family

Besides the ideal all-inclusive hotels and resorts for families to stay, Aruba offers several great activities and adventures for adults and kids alike.

Arikok National Park

Almost 20 percent of Aruba is under protection as a National Park, preserving the island’s rich biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and cultural heritage. In Arikok National Park, families will find caves, Indian rock drawings, and land formations made of lava, quartz diorite, and limestone. Families can explore the scenic trails on guided nature walks, heading through dry riverbeds, leading to hidden bays, including Moro, Boca Prins, and Dos Playa, each of which offers a unique glimpse into Aruba’s natural beauty.

California Lighthouse

The California Lighthouse nestles on the high, northern tip of the island and offers some of the best 360-degree views around. Moreover, travelers can even climb to the top of the lighthouse for an unforgettable panoramic experience.

Donkeys and Butterflies

Donkeys have been a major part of Aruba’s culture for more than 500 years. Known for their affectionate and gentle natures, they make wonderful companions. The whole family can visit the Donkey Sanctuary for a private 30+ minute session of hugging and petting with some of the friendliest, most loving donkeys around.

Meanwhile, they can also visit The Butterfly Farm, which is nestled in a lush tropical garden. This enchanting sanctuary hosts hundreds of butterflies, fluttering freely every day of the year.

Kayaking at Mangel Halto

Mangel Halto is renowned as the ideal location to kayak or snorkel in its calm and shallow waters. It is a must-visit for those who want to experience the island’s ocean life up close.

Water Sports in Aruba

For those travelers who love water sports, Aruba is the Caribbean’s premier destination, offering everything from windsurfing and kitesurfing, paddle boarding, snorkeling and even SUP yoga. Whether a beginner or an experienced adventurer, lessons are available for all skill levels.

Experience your next family vacation in The One Happy Island of Aruba! Visit the island’s official tourism website to find out more about the Aruba Effect!

Also, read more articles about Aruba here.