It’s hard to walk more than few steps at Bamboo Bonaire without finding a hammock. There’s one in every one of the 13 rooms, others scattered around the property, under (and even above) the palms. 

If there is a symbol of this place, it’s the hammock: because Bamboo Bonaire, a 13-room gem in on the western coast of the island, has made relaxation an art form. 

The adults-oriented (guests must be 12 and up) Bamboo, which has been open for a little over a decade, won’t remind you of many other hotels in Bonaire or the wider Caribbean. The feel here is decidedly Bali, with a remarkably lushly landscaped property where shaking palm trees provide the daily soundtrack, and running fountains dot the pathways. 

The rooms are full-fledged sanctuaries, whether you choose a traditional deluxe cottage with kitchenettes and endlessly comfortable outdoor patios or you go for one of the rooms with private plunge pools or jacuzzis. 

We’re rather fond of the plunge-pool rooms, where the “backyard” patios with outdoor showers and magnesium pools seem to turn your room into its own private resort. 

Bamboo is just a lovely place to be, a thoughtful, luxurious, unpretentious corner of the island that is the epitome of a great boutique hotel: a place with the perfect confluence of personality, design and service. 

The amenities are outstanding at all levels, from the Nespresso machines in the rooms to a wellness center that is home to the best spa on the island. 

There’s a wonderful main pool area that doubles as an almost outdoor library and relaxation area, 

And while Bamboo has cultivated a temple of relaxation on its grounds, it isn’t just a place for serenity. This is a resort for exploring Bonaire, for driving out to the Washington Slaagbai park or windsurfing in Lac Bay. 

If you’re a diver, you’ll find unlimited, 24-7 tanks on property, all delivered with an easy, convenient experience. 

It’s also home to one of the best restaurants in the Caribbean, the world-class culinary experience that is CHEFS Bonaire.  And then there’s the service, as attentive and friendly as you’ll find at any five-star resort, where the focus is, as it should be, on saying “yes” to guests. 

These are all of the things that take an ordinary small hotel and turn it into a fantastic boutique hotel, the touches and inclusions that transcend the number of rooms. 

It is the place you won’t want to leave — and not just when it’s time to check-in for your flight.

Simply put, Bamboo is the best boutique hotel in Bonaire — and, right now, the best boutique hotel in the Dutch Caribbean. And there isn’t really anything else like it. 

For more, visit Bamboo Bonaire.