Aruba has made history! Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba has been awarded two MICHELIN Keys by the prestigious MICHELIN Guide 2025, becoming the first and only hotel in the ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao) to ever receive this honor.
This remarkable recognition places Aruba on the map among just 21 Caribbean destinations included in the MICHELIN Keys program — and celebrates Boardwalk’s distinctive style, warmth, and authentic island charm.
An Exceptional Distinction
Out of more than 7,000 carefully selected hotels in the MICHELIN Guide, only 572 properties worldwide earned a Two Keys distinction in 2025.
According to MICHELIN, this level recognizes “an exceptional stay — a place that is truly unique and exceptional in every way, where a memorable experience is always guaranteed.”
In a personal note to the hotel, MICHELIN inspectors highlighted Boardwalk’s “remarkable ability to distinguish itself among thousands of hotels.”
From Surf Retreat to Barefoot Luxury
Boardwalk’s story is as inspiring as its surroundings. In 2011, Aruba-born twin sisters Kimberly and Stephanie Rooijakkers took over a quaint surf retreat and transformed it into the vibrant, barefoot-luxury boutique hideaway it is today.
Set amid lush tropical gardens on a historic coconut plantation, the hotel now offers 49 colorful casitas — each designed with local flair and a strong connection to Aruba’s culture and nature.
Just steps from Palm Beach, Boardwalk has become a beloved escape for travelers seeking privacy, warmth, and authentic island hospitality.
A Recognition Close to the Heart
“Receiving this recognition from such a well-established organization is truly a great honor for us,” said Kimberly Rooijakkers, co-owner of Boardwalk. “It’s a testament to the hard work, passion, and positive energy of our entire team, making sure our guests receive the best possible vacation experience in Aruba while staying with us.”
She adds, “It truly makes us proud that our efforts to deliver authentic, high-quality ‘like-a-local’ experiences and service — in a hotel environment that connects deeply with Aruba’s nature, culture, and heritage — are recognized this way.”
What Makes Boardwalk Stand Out
- ⭐ 19.6 / 20 (MICHELIN guest rating)
- ⭐ 4.9 / 5 (TripAdvisor & Google)
- ⭐ 9.6 / 10 (Booking.com)
These glowing reviews echo what the MICHELIN Keys celebrate — exceptional character, authenticity, and unforgettable stays.
About the MICHELIN Keys
Launched in 2024, the MICHELIN Keys distinction is the hospitality counterpart to MICHELIN’s famous restaurant stars. Hotels are awarded one, two, or three keys based on excellence in design, service, atmosphere, and sense of place.
- One Key: A special stay
- Two Keys: An exceptional stay
- Three Keys: An extraordinary stay worth a special journey
With its Two Keys award, Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba now stands among the most remarkable boutique hotels in the world.
Jeff Herron Photography, Inc.
About Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba
Located on a lush former coconut plantation just minutes from Palm Beach, Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba offers 49 unique casitas in a colorful, adults-only setting. The property blends barefoot luxury with island soul, featuring tropical gardens, private patios, and handcrafted design elements that reflect Aruba’s spirit.
Guests can enjoy all-day dining, fresh juices, and handcrafted cocktails at Coco Café, the hotel’s on-site eatery — or unwind in private plunge pools surrounded by nature.
