If you’ve ever dreamed of a tropical getaway with turquoise waters, sun-kissed beaches, and a laid-back vibe, Aruba should definitely be on your radar!
We recently took a family trip there—my husband, our 3-year-old, 6-month-old, and I—and it exceeded all our expectations. From the stunning beaches to the warm-hearted locals, Aruba offers plenty to enjoy at a slower, more mindful pace.
Since having kids, slow travel has taken on a new meaning for me. It’s about letting them explore at their own speed while soaking in the beauty around us, free from packed schedules. In Aruba, we watched our children enjoy the beach and nature while learning to travel mindfully and care for the environment. This intentional, slower way of traveling was incredibly rewarding and made connecting with the island feel genuine.
Aruba’s commitment to sustainability and responsible tourism made it the perfect destination for teaching our little ones to respect the world around them. Here’s a peek at how we spent three memorable days on the beautiful One Happy Island.
Day 1: Arrival and Settling In
We checked into the Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort, which immediately felt like a dream. The resort is family-friendly, spacious, and perfectly located on Palm Beach. From the pool area with waterfalls and shallow spots for little ones to the easy access to local shops and restaurants like Gianni’s and Craft Coffee & Bar, everything was ideal for families.
After settling in, we spent the afternoon exploring the resort, playing in the pool, and enjoying the beach. It was refreshing to arrive and simply let the island’s relaxed vibe take over.
Dinner at Caya House Aruba
Just a 4-minute walk from the resort, Caya House Aruba is a hidden gem. With a casual yet sophisticated vibe, it serves delicious steak and seafood, perfect for unwinding after traveling with kids.
Day 2: Exploring Aruba at Our Own Pace
Breakfast at Santos Coffee with Soul
We started the day at this cozy café, which quickly became a favorite. The coffee is incredible, and the pastries and light bites were perfect for a relaxed start.
Morning Activities:
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The Butterfly Farm – A tranquil sanctuary filled with hundreds of butterflies from around the world. Watching our 3-year-old chase them was priceless and set the tone for our slow exploration.
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Philips Animal Garden – This non-profit rescues exotic animals, and we loved feeding goats, horses, and sheep. It was a unique, educational, and fun way to connect with the island’s wildlife.
Lunch at One Happy Bowl
A plant-based, locally sourced café with a laid-back atmosphere. Supporting a sustainable, family-owned restaurant felt great, and the food was delicious.
Afternoon at the Resort
We spent the afternoon soaking up the sun, swimming, napping, and enjoying family downtime. It was exactly the balance we needed after a busy morning.
Dinner at Taste My Aruba
This authentic, family-owned restaurant serves fresh, farm-to-table and sea-to-table dishes. The outdoor garden provided a charming, relaxing setting—a true hidden gem.
Day 3: A Slow Day at the Resort
On our final day, we hit pause—no plans, no pressure—just time to savor the island.
Breakfast at Palm Beachside Grill
Starting the day with a meal overlooking the Caribbean Sea was pure bliss.
Wildlife Tour at the Hyatt
The tour was both educational and interactive, letting the kids meet and learn about the animals that call the resort home.
Dinner at Ruinas Del Mar
Our last meal was a treat at this award-winning restaurant. The Caribbean-Mediterranean fusion menu, paired with koi lagoons, waterfalls, and stunning views, made for the perfect ending to our trip.
Traveling Responsibly in Aruba
Throughout our stay, we made mindful choices to minimize our impact on the island:
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Using reef-safe sunscreen to protect coral reefs and marine life
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Bringing reusable water bottles to reduce single-use plastics
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Picking up garbage on the beaches to keep Aruba clean
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Taking the Aruba Promise, committing to being respectful and responsible guests
Slow travel isn’t just about going at a leisurely pace—it’s about being conscious of your footprint and making meaningful connections with the places you visit. In Aruba, we found the perfect balance for our family: fun, relaxation, and mindful exploration.
Photo credits : https://www.aruba.com/us/blog/little-feet-slow-days-exploring-aruba-with-our-kids
