Grand Windsock Ocean Club — Fresh Menu, Local Flavors

Xp Bonaire IslandLife Feature Story

On the west coast of Bonaire, right across from the Grand Windsock Resort, sits Grand Windsock Ocean Club — a relaxed beachfront spot known for good food, friendly service, and a front-row seat to the island’s sunsets. With its casual vibe, lounge chairs, and direct beach access, it’s a natural choice for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, whether you're in flip-flops or fresh off a dive.

What sets the Ocean Club apart these days is its refreshed menu and the hands-on approach of Chef Ivo, who’s been quietly shaping the kitchen into something more personal — for both visitors and locals.

“We wanted to move away from the standard menu idea,” Ivo says. “Our guests asked for more local dishes, more variety, and we worked that into everything — from breakfast to dinner.”

A Menu with a Broad Appeal

Rolled out earlier this season, the new menu strikes a balance between comfort classics and island flavors. Breakfast features tropical smoothies, energizing a-la-carte options, and a few personalized unexpected twists. Lunch brings gourmet sandwiches, crisp salads, and island favorites that highlight local produce and fresh seafood. Dinner rounds it out with seared salmon, Caribbean-style ribs, bold-flavored pastas, and grilled specials like fresh tuna or tenderloin — all prepared with a laid-back touch that fits the setting.

For those wanting an authentic taste of Bonaire, the Ocean Club now serves traditional stoba (local stew), island-style grilled fish, and homemade Quesilo (flan), giving both visitors and residents a chance to enjoy classic dishes made with a chef’s attention to detail.

“I’m Dutch, but I’ve always liked stepping out of the usual European comfort zone,” Ivo says. “Working with local chefs here — who know the island’s flavors — has been a real plus. It’s a good mix of influences.”

Specials That Keep It Moving

The Ocean Club keeps things fresh with weekly events: 

Pizza Night (Saturdays): Hand-tossed, wood-fired pizzas 

BBQ Night (Sundays): Live-grilled meats and sides ($25 per person)

“I like doing the BBQ live — right there for the guests,” Ivo explains. “It keeps the quality high, and people enjoy watching it happen.”

Service runs all day: breakfast from 8 AM to noon, lunch from noon to 4 PM, a snack menu from 4 to 5 PM, and dinner until 10 PM. The bar stays open until 11 PM, serving signature cocktails and island drinks.

A Chef Who Found His Place

Ivo arrived on the island in 2020, just before the global pandemic reshaped travel and hospitality. Originally from the Netherlands, with formal culinary training and fine dining experience, he came looking for something different — and stayed.

“I thought I’d be here for a year,” he says. “But I liked the people, the vibe… and then you get involved with places like The Beach, Ingredients, Captains Table and now the renewed Ocean Club. Things kind of grow naturally.”

From helping launch takeout services during COVID to returning to familiar faces at Windsock, Ivo is a known name in Bonaire’s dining scene. His straightforward, hands-on style fits both the kitchen and the beach club setting.

“I’m more of a practice person — I like being involved on the floor, in the kitchen. And now, I really enjoy helping young chefs find their way too. That’s part of the future here.”

Today, with two rescue dogs, a house he built with family, and a steady spot in the local community, Ivo balances work with island life — boating, eating out, and keeping things simple.

More Than a Beach Club

Grand Windsock Ocean Club keeps its focus on good food, a relaxed vibe, and a team that knows its guests. Whether you’re grabbing a coffee after snorkeling, sharing a BBQ dinner with friends, or just dropping in for pizza night, it’s a place that works for both locals and travelers.

“We’re building something step by step,” Ivo says. “The goal is a place that really fits the island — nothing overdone, just good food, good people. Keep an eye out for the monthly events… lots of fun to come!”

Quick Info

Grand Windsock Ocean Club

Location: EEG Boulevard 14, Kralendijk, Bonaire

Open: Daily 08:00–22:00 (Bar until 23:00)

Reservations & Info: WhatsApp or call +599 701‑7887

Website: grandwindsockbonaire.com

Highlights: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, BBQ Sundays, Pizza Night Saturdays, Local Specials, Chef’s Menu Mon–Fri

Vibe: Casual, beachside, friendly — perfect for locals and visitors alike