12 day itinerary
Aruba
Itinerary
Aruba is a fantastic destination for families, with its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. Here’s a fun and family-friendly 12-day itinerary that includes parks, green spaces, restaurants, and shopping. Let’s dive in!
Day 1: Arrival in Aruba
- Morning: Arrive at . Check into your family-friendly hotel or resort (consider places like the Marriott or the Hilton).
- Afternoon: Head to for some relaxation. It’s known for its soft white sand and calm waters, perfect for kids to play.
- Evening: Dinner at . Enjoy fresh seafood with a view of the sunset.
Day 2: Explore Oranjestad
- Morning: Visit , the oldest structure in Aruba, and learn about the island’s history.
- Afternoon: Stroll through , a lovely green space with sculptures and a playground for the kids.
- Lunch: Grab a bite at for some delicious pancakes.
- Evening: Explore the shops in downtown Oranjestad. Don’t miss the colorful buildings and local boutiques!
Day 3: Adventure at
- Morning: Head to . Explore the trails, caves, and unique landscapes. Don’t forget to bring water and snacks!
- Afternoon: Visit the Natural Pool (Conchi) for a refreshing swim. It’s a bit of a hike, but the kids will love the adventure!
- Lunch: Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the park’s scenic spots.
- Evening: Dinner at , a cozy Italian restaurant with a family-friendly atmosphere.
Day 4: Beach Day at
- Morning: Spend the day at . Rent some beach chairs and umbrellas for a relaxing day in the sun.
- Afternoon: Try out some water sports like paddleboarding or snorkeling. Many places offer rentals right on the beach.
- Lunch: Enjoy a casual meal at right on .
- Evening: Dinner at , where you can enjoy fresh seafood and local dishes.
Day 5: Visit the
- Morning: Head to the . It’s a magical experience for kids to see butterflies up close and learn about their life cycle.
- Afternoon: Visit . Kids will love interacting with the friendly donkeys!
- Lunch: Have lunch at , where you can try traditional Aruban dishes.
- Evening: Relax at your hotel or take a sunset stroll along the beach.
Day 6: Day Trip to
- Morning: Take a trip to , known for its shallow waters, perfect for young children.
- Afternoon: Enjoy a beach day with snorkeling and swimming. Bring along some beach toys!
- Lunch: Have a casual lunch at nearby, famous for its local cuisine.
- Evening: Return to your hotel and have dinner at , a fun teppanyaki restaurant.
Day 7: Cultural Day
- Morning: Visit the to learn about the island’s aloe vera production.
- Afternoon: Explore the to discover the island’s indigenous history.
- Lunch: Enjoy lunch at , which offers a great view and local dishes.
- Evening: Dinner at , a family-friendly sushi spot.
Day 8: Relaxation and Spa Day
- Morning: Enjoy a leisurely morning at your hotel pool or beach.
- Afternoon: Treat the family to a spa day. Many resorts offer family-friendly spa packages.
- Lunch: Have a light lunch at the hotel or nearby café.
- Evening: Dinner at Bistro de Suikertuin, known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious food.
Day 9: Water Park Fun
- Morning: Spend the day at at the Atlantis Resort. It’s packed with slides and pools for all ages!
- Lunch: Grab lunch at one of the park’s eateries.
- Evening: After a fun-filled day, have dinner at for a lively atmosphere.
Day 10: Nature and Wildlife
- Morning: Visit the . Kids will love seeing these giant birds and learning about them.
- Afternoon: Head to for some snorkeling. The waters are calm and teeming with fish.
- Lunch: Enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach.
- Evening: Dinner at , set in a beautiful garden setting.
Day 11: Shopping and Local Markets
- Morning: Visit the for some shopping. It has a variety of stores and boutiques.
- Afternoon: Explore the for souvenirs and local crafts.
- Lunch: Have lunch at in the mall for a quick bite.
- Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at , where you can dine with your feet in the sand.
Day 12: Departure
- Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel.
- Afternoon: Depending on your flight time, you might squeeze in a last-minute beach visit or some final shopping.
- Evening: Head to the airport for your departure, taking with you wonderful memories of Aruba!
I hope this itinerary helps you plan an unforgettable family vacation in Aruba! Enjoy the sun, sand, and all the adventures that await you! 🌴🌊✨
