A Birthday Surprise to Remember

When I decided to surprise my husband with a trip to De Palm Island, I knew we were in for a treat. As a family travel writer, I’m always on the lookout for experiences that offer both adventure and relaxation, and this all-inclusive Caribbean adventure promised just that. The day began with a smooth pick-up from our hotel, and a short, scenic boat ride to the island. The excitement in the air was palpable as we received our wristbands and a brief orientation.

The island itself is a paradise for families, with activities that cater to all ages. My kids were thrilled with the water park, and I couldn’t resist joining them on the body drop slides. The laughter and screams of joy were infectious, and it was a perfect way to start our day. Meanwhile, my husband and I decided to indulge in the Snuba experience. Our instructor, Yeli, was fantastic, guiding us through the safety procedures and ensuring we were comfortable with the equipment. The underwater world was mesmerizing, and it was a joy to share this unique experience with my family.

Flamingos, Salsa, and More

One of the unexpected delights of De Palm Island was the chance to see flamingos up close. While the flamingos were a hit with the kids, I found myself captivated by the pelicans and frigate birds soaring freely in their natural habitat. It was a reminder of the beauty and diversity of nature, and a wonderful educational moment for the kids.

As the day progressed, we stumbled upon a salsa class in full swing. The instructor was engaging and managed to get a group of us involved, including my husband, who usually shies away from dancing. It was a blast learning the steps and watching everyone come together in a joyful dance. The sense of community and fun was infectious, and it was one of those spontaneous moments that make travel so rewarding.

Relaxation and Refueling

After a morning of activities, we took a break to refuel at the snack bar. The kids enjoyed burgers and chicken strips, while my husband and I savored the local Balashi beer on draught. The food was satisfying, and the relaxed atmosphere made it a perfect spot to unwind. We didn’t try the sit-down restaurant, as we were too busy soaking up the sun and enjoying the island’s offerings.

The afternoon was spent lounging on sunbeds by the beach cove. While the beach was a bit rocky, it didn’t deter us from enjoying the serene surroundings. Water shoes came in handy, and we found a quiet spot to relax and reflect on the day’s adventures. The unlimited banana boat rides were a hit with the kids, and watching them splash around in the water was a joy.

In the end, our day at De Palm Island was everything we’d hoped for and more. It was a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and family bonding. If you’re looking for a memorable family experience in Aruba, I highly recommend adding this to your itinerary. It’s a day of fun under the Caribbean sun that you won’t soon forget!