The Water is Where it’s At: Aquatic Experiences at Barceló Aruba

Dive into the mystery! ! Just a short distance off the coast from the all-inclusive Barceló Aruba is the resting place of the SS Antilla, the largest shipwreck in the Caribbean. At 400-feet long, the Antilla is now an underwater playground, suitable for all levels of scuba diving experience. Over the years, the ship has become an eco-system in its own right, providing a home for colorful tropical fish and coral. Dive in and see …

• Good to know: Scuba divers will see lobsters, moray eels and other exotic sea life. Kee your eyes open – you may even encounter dolphins or a gentle sea turtle.

The centerpiece of Barceló Aruba is its enormous freshwater swimming pool. Surrounded by rocks and tropical palm trees, this isn’t your typical resort pool – it feels like you’re sunbathing and swimming in a natural setting, free from all care. No matter where you are in the resort, you’re only steps away from this incredible pool.

The calm currents and crystal-clear azure waters of Fisherman’s Hut Beach make it a favorite spot for snorkeling. There’s a whole world waiting under the waves. It’s also the perfect place to learn to windsurf or kitesurf, with gentle breezes and shallow depths. You’ll want to stick around until evening, too. Fisherman’s Hut Beach boasts legendary sunsets.

A visit to Aruba isn’t complete without discovering the island’s most amazing natural attraction, located in the Arikok National Park. Arikok is home to Conchi — better known as “The Natural Pool. A one-of-a-kind spot, Conchi is located along the park’s windswept volcanic coastline. When you arrive, you’ll be greeted by a well-maintained staircase that will take you to the pool. The oval-shaped Conchi is about 20 feet long and 25 feet wide, and its calm waters are protected from the surf by a series of rock formations. The water is deep enough for cliff diving, and if you’ve brought the right equipment, it’s great for snorkeling as well. The journey to the Natural Pool is an adventure all by itself and only possible by foot, horse, ATV or 4×4 vehicle. . Check out a Viator 4X4 Natural Pool tour.

• Good to know: Beyond the Natural Pool, Aruba’s Arikok National Park is filled with amazing sights, sounds and experiences. Founded in 2003, this pristine 8,000-acre natural setting is home to all kinds of diverse flora and fauna living amidst gorgeous landscapes, from mountains to sand dunes, from hidden coves to subterranean caves. There are endless adventures to be had here, from wildlife encounters to surfing. That’s right, surfers, Aruba is one of the Caribbean’s best under-the-radar surfing destinations.

The catch of the day can be yours! Charter a skippered boat for an early morning fishing expedition, where you can try to land Wahoo, Blue Marlin, White Marlin, King Fish, Tuna & Bonito. Fishing charter boats are available at the Renaissance Marina. Check out some of your best Aruba deep sea fishing charter options.

Little known fact: Aruba is home to the world’s largest passenger submarine fleet. Atlantis Submarines let your family take a trip under the waves in comfort and style during your Aruba family vacation. It’s as close as you can get to scuba diving in Aruba — without actually getting wet! At 130 feet below the ocean’s surface in an air-conditioned, high-tech submarine, you’ll float past two shipwrecks right out of Pirates of the Caribbean. You’ll visit beautiful coral reefs teeming with colorful marine life. It’s one of the most unique things to do in Aruba with your family.

• Good to know: Children must be a minimum of 36 inches in height (90 cm) or four years old to ride the submarine.

For one of the most fun things to do in Aruba with younger kids, take a day trip to the aptly named Baby Beach. Known as the best kids beach in the Caribbean, Baby Beach’s shallow waters in the calm lagoon are perfect for your young ones, whether they want to just splash around or even try out snorkeling (the water is crystal clear). Located close to San Nicolas, Baby Beach is ideal for a family picnic on the sand. Nearby refreshment stands make it even easier.

Start planning your splash-filled Aruba getaway now. Barceló Aruba offers an array of great packages and deals.