*This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Aruba Tourism Authority. All opinions are 100% mine.
Aruba has always been on my travel bucket list ever since the song Kokomo by The Beach Boys was released in the 1980s.
Aruba which is part of the West Indies in the Caribbean is known for its white sand beaches with calm turquoise waters, and comfortable temperatures.
Located just below the hurricane belt, it does not rain much in Aruba with less than 20 inches total each year.
Little rain and a near-constant breeze make it comfortable enough for people to vacation in Aruba all year round unlike other destinations in the Caribbean.
My parents visited for a day as part of a Caribbean cruise several years ago and commented that it was their favourite port just for that reason. Canadians aren’t used to extreme heat!
The other islands were too hot and they had to head back to the boat after a few hours on land.
Friends that have vacationed in Aruba tell me there’s something for everyone – foodies, families with kids and adventure enthusiasts.
For Foodies
Aruba has a very diverse population, with more than 90 nationalities and as such there are many international influences in the food and dishes that are offered at restaurants and grocery stores.
Everything from curry goat, fish creole, Dutch favourites like pea soup and of course tons of seafood – a delicious playground for a foodie family like mine!
For Families with Kids
My kids love the beach and Aruba has many that are family friendly.
The one we’re most excited about is Baby Beach (named for its shallow waters) and is ideal for families with young children who are just learning how to swim or be comfortable in water.
Perfect for both our 5 and 2 year old!
There are also many kid friendly attractions including the Butterfly Farm, Ostrich Farm and Donkey Sanctuary.
For Adventurers
There’s a plethora of options for adventure and adrenaline junkies – from kitesurfing, deep sea fishing and diving.
Guadirikiri, Fontein and Huliba cave tours (don’t worry the bats are harmless!) and horseback tours are offered at Arikok National Park.
Segway tours are available near the California Lighthouse and it is near the top of my list!
Although small in size, Aruba has become a hot spot for foodies, families and adventure travellers with over 1 million visitors a year. Aruba also has one of the highest visitor return rates in the Caribbean.
If you’ve visited Aruba – whether by cruise or vacation on the island – and know of something we MUST see or do, please let me know! I’d love to add it to my list.
Check out Aruba travel for more information on this popular Caribbean destination.
Aruba is definitely on my bucket list – thanks for the tips!
We LOVED Aruba when we went in March – we will definitely go back. It was so lovely, the people were kind, and the food delicious. When we go back, we’ll explore a bit more and take advantage of the beautiful island.
So glad to hear you had a good time in March, Julia and you plan to go back. I’ve heard the same thing from many friends who have been there too. I can’t wait until we visit!
Aruba is one of my favorite islands. I’ve love it everytime I’ve visited. Would love to take my kids there as I’ve only visited prior to kids.
Great tips – and the photos – love!
How many times have you visited Kerrie?
I’ve always wanted to go to Aruba! My friends who have visited have said the most amazing things about the island. I’ve done a Segway tour before and it’s a lot of fun! Love how family friendly the island is.
I just went on my first Segway tour downtown (Toronto) – can’t imagine what it would be like in the Caribbean!
That is so funny that you associate Aruba with the Beach Boys. Me too! The beaches sound so family friendly and I like that there is a bit of adventure for the grown-ups too.
I associate a lot of the Caribbean with that song Susannah :). Only been to Jamaica so far but Aruba has been on my visit list since the 80s when the song was released!
I wish I had been, and had advice or ideas to give! Did you go?
Haven’t been to Aruba yet Victoria but hopefully we will get to visit soon. Maybe we will find a cruise that ports there just to get our feet wet and then make a week long trip to Aruba after that 🙂
Beautiful photos of stunning scenery! Would love to visit Aruba – on the bucket list!
Aruba does look very pretty in the pictures.
I’d love to visit that Baby Beach with my family…my daughter is 20 months old and would love it. Thanks for sharing!
It is on my bucket list, but now i am anxious. so beautiful
just look at those white sandy beaches
Aruba looks so relaxing and stunning.
Havent yet been but we are off to Cuba for a week on Saturday