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Family Getaway Guide To Aruba

Families love the opportunity to escape on an Aruba vacation. Combined with perfect temperatures, the many activities available in Aruba make it possible for families to have the best vacation possible. Kids will love exploring the water while mom and dad kick back on the sand and enjoy their island getaway. While in Aruba, there are plenty of things for families to do together, but yet there is still plenty of time for everyone to spend some time doing what they enjoy — including spending time in the spa for mom and getting in a round of golf for dad.
Places To Stay 

Aruba is home to many all-inclusive resorts that are very family-friendly. Parents love staying at these resorts because everything is included in one simple price. Kids can participate in the many activities available, while the parents enjoy a nice dinner overlooking the water. Though there are many resorts that are non-inclusive that are just as amazing as the all-inclusive ones. However, many families love the idea of not having to worry about giving money to the kids just to go get a soda. Popular resorts in Aruba include Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino, Divi Aruba All-Inclusive, Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort Spa & Casino, Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino and The Mill Resort.

Related: Best All-Inclusive Resorts In The Caribbean

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Places To Eat

Of course, when staying at an all-inclusive resort families will be able to enjoy the many restaurants located at their resort. However, it is always fun and exciting to explore the island away from the hotel and resort. There are many restaurants in Aruba that offer families a variety of cuisine and dining style options. Families will find everything from quick-service restaurants to fine dining establishments and casual restaurants to budget-friendly cafes. No matter how picky the kids (and adults) may be, families are sure to find something everyone will enjoy. Let's take a look at some of the more popular restaurants families love to visit while vacationing in Aruba.

Fine dining restaurants include Passions on the Beach, Carambola Restaurant, Amuse Bistro, Barefoot Restaurant and Windows on Aruba. Popular casual restaurants include Que Pasa Restaurant, Bavaria German Restaurant, Matthew's Beachside Restaurant, Fishes & More and Smokey Joe's Island Grill. Families on a tight vacation budget are sure to find something everyone will love at Pizza Bob's and Salt & Pepper.

Getting Around

There are plenty of paved roads throughout Aruba that will take travelers to just about anywhere on the island they want to go. There are several car rental companies on the island offering both pick-up and drop-off service at the hotel or resort. Those who do not want to rent a car can use the many taxis available across the island. An affordable transportation option in Aruba is the bus service. Bus service is available daily between many main areas of the islands and to and from hotel areas.

Another unique way to get around the island and see the sites is to board a sightseeing tour. Many of these tours will take you to the must-see locations on the island aboard an air-conditioned bus, aboard a four-wheel drive vehicle or on a motorcycle. This transportation option offers families the opportunity to get away from their resort and see the island, while have the assurance they will not get lost trying to get back to the resort. If a tour is not something a family wants to do, motorcycles, scooters and ATVs are also available for rent to go exploring the island.

Related: Best Family Getaways Near Los Angeles

Photo Credit: Thinkstock Photo Credit: Thinkstock
Top Things To Do

Aruba has much more to offer families than the activities available at the many all-inclusive resorts. Families will find everything from museums to quiet beaches and natural sanctuaries to historic sites while exploring Aruba. Many of these must-see attractions can be easily accessed by driving or taking public transportation.

Things that every family must try to fit in while visiting Aruba include Archaeology Museum Aruba, Butterfly Farm, Eagle Beach, Philip's Animal Garden and Wilhelmina Park. If time allows, there are many other things to do and sites to see. More things to enjoy while in Aruba may include Palm Beach, Donkey Sanctuary, Arikok National Park, California Lighthouse, Pendernales Wreck and Bushiribana Ruins.

Visiting Aruba can offer families a unique vacation they can enjoy together. Plus, there are so many things to do, making it possible for everyone to find something to enjoy while on vacation. Whether families want to relax or go exploring the island, Aruba offers the opportunity to do both in a single vacation.

Heather Landon (Heather Leigh Carroll) is a freelance writer with more than 20 years of experience. She has combined two of her passions - writing and travel - to share her experiences with others. You can read more of her articles at Examiner.com.
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