Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba

"Set in a former coconut grove, The Boardwalk Boutique Hotel is locally owned and family-run by twin sisters Kimberly and Stephanie Rooijakkers who were born and raised in Aruba. While it's less than half a mile from the heavily populated Palm Beach, it somehow feels worlds away. The property features 50 casitas surrounded by lush, tropical landscaping, and is the ideal place to truly unplug. Expect to spot every type of traveler here, from groups of friends and families to honeymooners and solo travelers. While it's not directly on the sand, the resort is just minutes from the beach, accessible via a short walk or by the property's shuttle. The casitas are private, while still offering all the amenities of a resort, alongside rarities like kitchens and BBQs. If you choose to eat out, the on-site Coco Café is a laid-back outdoor restaurant serving classic Aruban culinary treats, Belgian items, and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine." - Jacqueline Dole

"Aruba’s Palm Beach is known for its powdery white sand, tranquil blue waters, and sprawling full-service luxury resorts. Just steps away, however, the intimate Boardwalk Boutique Hotel is a laid-back alternative. Owned and operated by Belgian twin sisters Stephanie and Kimberly Rooijakkers, who were born on the island and spent their childhoods there, the 46 casitas are scattered on the grounds of a former coconut plantation and individually decorated: studio, one-, and two-bedroom spaces are outfitted with bright pinks, yellows, and aquas, fully equipped kitchens, air-conditioning, and private patios with their own charcoal barbecues and hammocks. There are also two pools on site (one for relaxing, one with over-water hammocks and cocktail service), plus guests have access to a private area on Palm Beach with traditional Aruban huts and comfy sunbeds. Breakfast and lunch offerings include vegan and plant-based fare from local Eduardo’s Beach Shack, and can be delivered to your casita or one of the pools, but with no restaurant on site dinner is up to you." - AFAR Editors

"Aruba’s Palm Beach is known for its powdery white sand, tranquil blue waters—and sprawling full-service luxury resorts. Just steps away, the intimate Boardwalk Small Hotel is a laid-back alternative. Owned and operated by Belgian twin sisters Stephanie and Kimberly Rooijakkers, who were born on the island and spent their childhoods here, 14 casitas are scattered on the grounds of a former coconut plantation and individually decorated: studio, one-, and two-bedroom spaces are outfitted with bright pinks, yellows, and aquas, fully equipped kitchens, air-conditioning, and private patios with their own charcoal barbecues and hammocks. Breakfast offerings range from the local (think tropical fruit and house-made arepas ) to the luxe (bottles of champagne), and can be delivered to your casita or beachside palapa , but with no restaurant on site lunch and dinner is up to you."