MICHELIN Awards Two Keys to Boardwalk Hotel Aruba

Big news from the Caribbean: Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba has been awarded Two MICHELIN Keys by the prestigious MICHELIN Guide 2025, making it the first and only hotel in the Dutch Caribbean to ever receive a MICHELIN Key distinction. 

Out of more than 7,000 carefully selected hotels in the MICHELIN Guide, only 572 worldwide received a Two Keys distinction in 2025. That places Boardwalk in an elite global category of exceptional hotels offering remarkable, character-driven stays. 

From surf lodge to a barefoot luxury icon 

In 2011, Belgian twin sisters Kimberly and Stephanie Rooijakkers took a leap of faith and purchased a charming but worn-down surf lodge in Aruba. With vision, passion, and a whole lot of heart, they transformed it into what is now Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba a barefoot luxury, adults-only hideaway full of charm and Caribbean soul. 

Today, the property features 49 private casitas, set amidst lush tropical gardens on a historic former coconut plantation, just steps from Aruba’s famous Palm Beach. The hotel has become known for its colorful charm, locally inspired design, island conscious approach and warm, personalized service. 

Guests consistently rave about the experience: 

• MICHELIN guests rated the hotel 19.6 out of 20 
• Boardwalk scores 4.9/5 on both TripAdvisor and Google  

A heartfelt recognition 

“Receiving this recognition from such a well-established organization is truly a great honor for us,” shares Kimberly Rooijakkers, co-owner of Boardwalk. 

“It’s a testament to the hard work, passion, commitment and positive energy of our entire team, making sure our guests receive the best possible vacation experience in Aruba while staying with us.” 

“The MICHELIN Keys are provided to hotels that are an open door to the destination, deliver consistently outstanding quality, service and guest experiences, stand out in design and reflect personality and authenticity,” 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. It means a lot.” 

What do Two MICHELIN Keys mean? 

According to the MICHELIN Guide 2025: 

"An exceptional stay. A place that is truly unique and exceptional in every way, where a memorable experience is always guaranteed. A hotel of character, personality and charm, run with obvious pride and considerable care. Eye-catching design or architecture, and a real sense of the locale make this an exceptional place to stay." 

In its personal note to the hotel, MICHELIN added: 

“Our inspectors were impressed by your property’s remarkable ability to distinguish itself among thousands of hotels.” 

The numbers speak for themselves 

• 7,000+ hotels are part of the MICHELIN Guide 2025 
• Only 572 hotels worldwide received Two MICHELIN Keys 
• Boardwalk is the only hotel in Aruba, Bonaire & Curaçao with a Key distinction — and it received two 
• Guests rate Boardwalk an average of 19.6/20 (MICHELIN), 4.9/5 (TripAdvisor & Google), and 9.6/10 (Booking.com) 

About Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba 

Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba is a colorful, adults-only boutique hotel nestled in a lush former coconut plantation. Just a two-minute walk from the beach, the hotel offers 46 unique casitas, surrounded by tropical gardens and vibrant island vibes. Boardwalk invites guests to experience barefoot luxury with a local soul - combining privacy, design, and warm hospitality in an intimate setting. Guests can also enjoy all-day dining, fresh juices, and handcrafted cocktails at the on-site Coco Café. 

Explore Boardwalk on the MICHELIN Guide: 
https://guide.michelin.com/en/hotels-stays/noord/boardwalk-boutique-hotel-aruba-11992 

More information about Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba: www.boardwalkaruba.com