While the beautiful sandy shores and turquoise sea should be enough to draw visitors to Aruba, it is also a place where families will find many outdoor activities to partake in. Being located in the Caribbean and having various conditions that vary from desert-like climate to tropical ones, Aruba is ideal for hiking. Whether youre on Aruba with tots or teens, there are several kid-friendly hikes that you can do together to get in touch with nature and make memories that will last a lifetime. So, in this article, we will help you familiarize yourself with some of the most accessible and simultaneously exciting family hikes in Aruba.

Benefits of Family Hiking in Aruba

Going for a walk as a family is fun and a great way of making good memories in the natural world. There is a large number of trails in Aruba, making it possible for families not only to get a physical benefit from the hike but also a mental and emotional one. Exercise is a wonderful thing, fresh air is a blessing, and nature, after all, is the best teacher for the whole family.

Further, Aruba hiking is also a good way to find out more about the islands environment and the surrounding ecosystem. When families are hiking along trails, they are able to see different types of plants, observe local animals, and enjoy the landscapes. I believe that hiking is also a perfect chance to explain to children what environmental conservation is, why we should protect nature, and how we should treat animals. If ever there is a need to get the most out of a family vacation in Aruba, hiking is a wonderful way to have fun, learn a thing or two, and even exercise together.

Best Family Hikes in Aruba

Arikok National Park

It is most prominent treasures and a great destination for families that are up for a hike. The park occupies approximately one-fifth of the island and encompasses a diverse range of topographical geographies ranging from desert-like to palm savannah. The trails in Arikok are still not very challenging, and families can hike; that is why you should start your Aruba hiking here.

It has several miles of easy to moderate trails, most of which have ends at waterfalls, natural pools, caves, and vantage points. A walk on the Conchi Trail will lead you to the parks natural pool, an excellent place to swim in calm water amidst rocks. This one is an easy to moderate trail, and once you get to this natural pool, families can also swim in the clear water. During the tour, tourists have an opportunity to see the desert on the island and even some animals like iguanas as well as a number of interesting rock formations. There are other additional trails for families who wish to continue their excursion to caves with paintings on the stones and other exciting geographical curiosities.

Hooiberg Trail

Hooiberg, the island of Arubas Hay Hill, is one of the most famous sights on the island, and the trail to its top is quite easy, so families will definitely like this hike. Hooiberg is the highest point of Bonaire and provides a full 360-degree view of all of the islands beaches and even the other islands nearby. The trail to the summit is slightly more rigorous than others on the island, and the path includes 561 steps. Still, it is not very hard for families with children and for those people who have older children who are capable of climbing the rocks.

Once you reach the top, the reward is worth every step: It is, however, incredibly breathtaking to capture the views of the island from up close from this position. From here the families can look at the coastlines of Aruba, the hills, and the sea around the island. The steps that lead to the top of Hooiberg are ideal for taking breaks while chatting with other family members, who might be around. It is also a perfect area for taking those all-important family photos that will show the stunning island of Aruba.

California Lighthouse Trail

The California Lighthouse is another famous site in Aruba, and the track to the lighthouse is one of the simplest family hiking trails in Aruba. This trail is a nice one that will lead one through the island and has views of the coastline and some of the best beaches. The trail goes up to the lighthouse constructed in the early twentieth century to serve as a beaconary for Aruba. The lighthouse offers yet another wonderful opportunity to enjoy the views of the nature of Aruba.

The California Lighthouse Trail is easy and flat, which is good for those who have children or just prefer an easy walk. On the way, there is a possibility to have a nice view, smell the sea, and listen to the wind blowing. This short hike is an excellent chance to become acquainted with the history of the lighthouse and enjoy the views of the island and the surrounding area.

Baby Beach to Rodgers Beach Trail

The Baby Beach to Rodgers Beach Trail is a family-friendly, easy trail that brings people from one of Arubas top beach destinations, Baby Beach, to another, more secluded Rodgers Beach. This is an easy trail that is suitable for families with young children or those who do not fancy long hikes.  The trail is quite easy with only a few steep sections and the beautiful scenery of Arubas southern coast, its crystal clear waters and rocky shores.

During the trek, families can have a view of the beaches, play with the sand and the water at Baby Beach, or even take a break at Rodgers Beach. It is possible to swim, snorkel, and even take a picnic at both beaches.

Conclusion

Hiking in Aruba is something that families can do in order to spend time together while getting some fresh air and seeing some beautiful parts of Aruba. While some of the trails at Arikok National Park are physically challenging, there are also many easy walks all along the coast of Aruba for the whole family. From climbing up Hooiberg to strolling to the California Lighthouse, these are the perfect hikes to connect with nature and with your loved ones. So take your hiking shoes, grab the kids, and lets go discover the wonders of Aruba on foot.