Live Like A Local - Boutique Experiences

Why we think it’s so important for hotel guests and island visitors to explore Aruba? Good question. Here's our answer! We believe the island has so much more to offer than the small sliver of white sand beach that most vacationers get to see when in Aruba. Oftentimes the main reason to come to Aruba is to have an excellent beach experience, soak in the sun, enjoy the sand & surf vibe and relax. Which is great, for sure, however, we find that other sides of the island are very worth exploring as well. From culinary adventures and excursions to the rugged coastline and cactus-filled countryside, Aruba has a lot to offer

One of our signature experiences is a private foraging excursion with local chef and nature-expert Frank Kelly, aka Taki Aruba. Taki takes you on a foraging tour through Aruba’s countryside and along the island’s coastline, scouting for sea salt, eatable flowers and seaweed. In the early morning as nature awakes and the sun slowly rises, find yourself taking in gorgeous vistas. During the tour, Taki will share his knowledge about various local flowers and plants, their function and use. While the hike during the foraging excursion is already a feast, you’ll also be able to enjoy the foraged finds afterward, through freshly prepared local snacks and refreshing cocktails and mocktails. Taki will cook at your casita at Boardwalk, using your locally sourced ingredients in meals and specialty drinks. Unique local vibes guaranteed!

Want to be served something truly special on your patio? Another amazing culinary option is to order the mouthwatering paella experience prepared by chef Vincent of Green Fish. You might want to make a note of that. Too good! And since you’re on vacation, why not indulge in dining out quality, while staying in. Fishing lovers and adventurous at heart might even want to join a deep-sea fishing charter. Catch your own fresh fish in the morning and bring it back to Boardwalk for a barbecue feast later on in the day. It doesn’t get more local than that! Our concierge and front desk staff can gladly hook you up with a local fishing charter. Just remember to bring your sea legs.

Something we are incredibly proud of, is our long-standing collaboration with talented local artists in Aruba. Throughout our public spaces and inside all of our casitas you’ll discover artworks by the hand of local artists. Some sourced by Artisano, a foundation working with artists that have a distance to the labor market or society, other art works commissioned especially for Boardwalk and depicting the historic background of the hotel’s grounds as a coconut plantation. Hotel guests that would like to explore their inner artist and welcome a creative mindset, are encouraged to book a private art class with one of Aruba’s most productive local artists at the Elisa Lejuez Art Studio in close-by Malmok (5 min drive).