Boracay has become one of our favorite islands in the Philippines. Why?
In 2018, the whole island had a temporary closure in order to rehabilitate and redevelop the place.
The efforts aimed to promote a more sustainable tourism and thanks to those, we are now enjoying a cleaner and better experience.
Since, we went several times to Boracay.
The first time was really random as we just took the first flight from Manila to any destination and it appeared to be Boracay.
This was with one of our travel vlogger friends Daniel Marsh, here is the vlog.
And we just loved our experience! We were able to relax and sometimes go to party without leaving the island dirty.
To help you preparing your trip, here are our best hotel recommendations there:
THE GUIDE OF THE BEST HOTELS ACCORDING TO YOUR BUDGET
The sunset and beach at Boracay are just some of the beautiful natural wonders that the Philippines is proud of.
So it’s no surprise why you’ll see Boracay on top of any list of must-see travel destinations.
And we bet that the COVID-19 pandemic and cabin fever is making you dream of sinking your feet in Boracay’s powdery sand as well!
So here’s your guide on how to go to Boracay and where are the best spots of the island paradise.
Getting to Boracay (Safety Protocols)
With the current pandemic, some guidelines and safety measures set by local government units need to be followed for hassle-free trip.
Keep in mind that depending on when you’re reading the article, some of them might change.
(You can skip this if you know that already.)
As of Dec. 1, 2021, that’s what we know:
(…) the current requirements from the Boracay LGU (as of 01 December 2021). This might change from time to time, depending on the LGU and IATF’s protocols and quarantine classification of Boracay and your point of origin. Kindly follow these steps to ensure a worry free beach holiday:
Before accomplishing the Online Health Declaration Form, please ensure to have digital copies of the following requirements:
Proof of Identification with Philippine Residency or Passport for foreigners or OFWs
Poof of Vaccination Status
i. For fully vaccinated tourists
VaxCertPH Covid-19 Vaccination Certificate with full vaccination status from https://vaxcert.doh.gov.ph; OR
Locally-issued Vaccination Card or ID with full vaccination status with verifiable QR code; OR
Locally-issued Vaccination Card or ID with full vaccination status with Certificate of Vaccination from vaccination center with contact details; OR
Vaccination Card or ID or cerficate issued abroad
For unvaccinated or partially vaccinated tourists or in the absence of the above-mentioned documents
Negative RT PCR results. Extraction date should be done 72 hours prior to your flight to Boracay. . Below are the options
Saliva RT-PCR conducted by Philippine Red Cross. You may book a drive thru test through their website.
Swab RT-PCR conducted by any DOH Accredited Testing Center. Below are our recommended testing centers:
Philippine Diagnostic Laboratory (PADLAB)
We advise you to check the official website: https://aklan.gov.ph/guide-for-tourists/ for more information.
Where to Stay in Boracay?
The most famous beach in Boracay is White Beach. It’s about 4km long and divided into three stations.
Station 1 is the relatively quiet part of Boracay. It also has some of the most luxurious hotels on the island.
Meanwhile, most bars, restaurants, and dive shops are in Stations 2 and 3.
Therefore they’re usually the most packed and crowded stations.
But besides White Beach, Manoc-Manoc Beach, Bulabog Beach, and Yapak Beach (also known as Puka Shell Beach) are the lesser-known beaches but equally beautiful spots on the island.
We’ve categorized this guide into the different areas of Boracay:
- Bulabog Beach
- Station 3
- Station 2
- Station 1
- Station 0
The island is teeming with luxurious resorts and budget-friendly accommodations.
This island paradise welcomes all sorts of travelers.
With the various inns and resorts lining the beach, Boracay certainly has something for everyone. It depends on your budget, your personality, and the activities you’re interested in.
There will always be a hotel ready to welcome you and be your home away from home.
Bulabog Beach
For the thrill-seeking traveler
Bulabog beach is in the Eastern part of Boracay Island. It is not the main beach (White Beach).
Thrill-seekers will be blown away by all the exciting activities they can do here — literally.
The Habagat (westerly winds) gives strong currents and fierce winds from around June to September.
So this is the perfect time for windsurfers, kitesurfers, and parasailers to ride the wind and bust some moves!
And come October, the Amihan (easterly winds) blows gentle and constant winds ideal for other water sport activities such as snorkeling, island hoping, and diving.
If you’d like to pass your dive certification, the teachers might bring you there from white beach.
But despite all the sport activities that could go on at Bulabog Beach, it’s the most serene part of the island.
Also, there are less tourists compared to White Beach.
Besides the thrill-seekers, Bulabog Beach is also perfect for the traveler who wants an escape from all the chaos and crowd.
Note: the usual crowd of Boracay is no more. For now, even white beach is a very calm place.
7Stones Boracay Suites
Solitude at its finest.
The word ‘bulabog’ means disturbance in Filipino.
But tucked deep in Bulabog Beach is a hotel where no disturbance will mess with your tranquility — 7Stones Boracay Suites.
It’s probably the most peaceful place on the island.
Away from the main roads and hotspots of the island, but still at the oceanfront and accessible to popular establishments.
7Stones Boracay Suites has a large lagoon swimming pool with jacuzzi, and even a poolside bar.
Meanwhile, rooms range from a 33 sqm Superior up to a luxurious 277 sqm Suite with a private pool and jacuzzi at the rooftop!
There’s no better way to enjoy the serenity of Bulabog Beach and an undisturbed view of the ocean than at their 2-bedroom Sky Suite with Private Pool.
7Stones Boracay: Bulabog Beach, Bargy. Balabag, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan, Philippines
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Chill Out Hostel Boracay
Backpacker’s choice
Just as the name suggests, the Chill Out Hostel is a great place for backpackers to chill out!
They have a mixed dorm, a female-only dorm, and private rooms for those who want some extra privacy.
The Chill Out Dine and Lounge provides affordable food and drinks for guests.
Meanwhile, free Wifi, a widescreen television, darts, board games, and a whole lot of other activities are also available at the lounge.
The fun vibe and dynamic atmosphere definitely make it an interesting place to hang around.
You even get a free night if you book kitesurfing or diving lessons, or a discount on different activities like island hopping and water sports if you book through the hostel reception.
But the absolute best thing is free rum nights from 7-8PM.
Chill Out Hostel is a minute away from Bulabog Beach and an 8-minute walk away from White Beach, but you’re still guaranteed to have a splendid time when at the hostel
Chill Out Hostel Boracay: Zone 5-A Bulabog, Malay, Boracay, Philippines
Station 3
For the chill out and recharge traveler
Two words that we immediately think of when we hear White Beach’s Station 3: peace and nature.
That’s why we’d recommend this station for travelers who’d like to chill out and recharge. The sight of the greenery is rejuvenating.
While the peacefulness and quietness will let you get lost in reverie as you sit back and enjoy the cool sea breeze.
Although it’s generally the most quiet spot, it peeps also know how to have fun! Nightlife here is chillier.
There’s a handful of laid back bars in the area.
We’d also like to remind you that the waters are deeper compared to Stations 1 and 2. Some parts also get steep suddenly, so be careful when you’re going for a dip.
Hotels are often the most affordable in the entire island.
But even with affordable rates, hotels offer comfortable and luxurious accommodations coupled with award-winning service.
Pinjalo Resort and Villas
Unique ambiance
That’s why backpackers and travelers with modest budgets often head here.
You might think that having a slice of paradise will cost a lot.
But at Boracay, you don’t have to spend too much just to see the world-famous island destination.
Amid the cluster of restaurants and establishments is what seems to be a mini-forest where the hustle and bustle of Boracay seem to be a stranger — the Pinjalo Resort Villas.
And this resort offers spacious and comfortable accommodations. But for a modest price, and set in a vast tropical garden.
It even becomes more enchanting at night, as the garden is lit with beautiful lamps.
Pinjalo Resort and Villas has a large, 5ft swimming pool and a 2ft kiddie pool for guests.
Also, accommodation rates also include breakfast served at the Garden Cafe, the resort’s own restaurant.
Pinjalo Resort and Villas’ isn’t right in front of the beach, but its location is still convenient because it’s just a two-minute walk away from the famous White Beach and other restaurants and establishments.
In addition, you can ask the resort to pre-book water sport activities for you through their email address.
Snorkeling, scuba diving, helmet diving, parasailing, windsurfing, and cliff diving are just some of the activities you can do in Boracay.
Pinjalo Resort and Villas is your perfect spot if you want to be away from the hectic world. Be one with nature and experience the island life.
Pinjalo Resort Villas: Station 3, Manggayad Boracay Island, Malay Aklan, Philippines
Villa Caemilla
Charming and intimate
Villa Caemilla is a boutique hotel located in a serene location at Station 3.
It’s only 10 minutes away from the jetty port and a short stroll away from buzzy Station 2.
Villa Caemilla’s rooms are airy, spacious, and cozy.
With only about 39 rooms in a small villa-style building, this charming boutique hotel gives you the right balance of privacy and peacefulness.
While being able to channel the energy of Boracay island.
Have a chat with the receptionist to find out what island activities they can arrange for you. You can go snorkeling, glass-bottom boating, or banana boating, just to name a few.
But if you’d like to bask in the sun and enjoy the beach, sit back and relax on Villa Caemilla’s private sun loungers right in front of the hotel.
Perhaps grab some of their yummy snacks while you’re at it!
Here is a more complete guide with our hotel review as it was one of the places, we stayed at: Villa Caemilla Boutique Hotel
Villa Caemilla Beach Boutique Hotel: Station 3, Brgy. Manoc-Manoc, Boracay Island, Malay Aklan, Philippines
Station 2
For the fun-loving traveler
Station 2 is the hotspot for all things fun and exciting — it’s the station that never sleeps!
That was the case before covid but we can still feel the good vibes there.
Fun-loving travelers would enjoy mingling with other tourists and meet new friends.
One of the popular landmarks in Station 2 is D’Mall.
It’s an open-air mall squeezed between White Beach and Boracay Main Road. Everything you need is here!
From food stalls and fruit stands, to souvenir shops and even ATM machines and money changers.
There’s also a Santis grocery if you’re craving for European food.
And at night, the coolest bars and clubs come alive with great music and lots of booze!
The king of all bars here is Epic Boracay, from the creators of Manila’s top clubs, Revel, Valkyrie, etc.
You know you’re guaranteed to have an EPIC night!
It’s the best decision to stay at a hotel in Station 2 if you’d like to be close to all the action and buzz.
Hotels here are at the mid-range.
So, the fun-loving travelers who’d like to spend on experience but stay in good hotels will fit perfectly in Station 2.
The District Boracay
No FOMO here
Amid the crowd and establishments, you surely won’t miss the grand facade of The District Boracay.
It’s an opulent hotel conveniently placed in Station 2, where everything is conveniently within reach.
D’mall and other popular establishments are just a few minute stroll away from the hotel.
The District Boracay is at a bustling location.
But with only 48 rooms, the hotel still offers some privacy and intimacy for the guests.
The rooms are comfortable and equipped with all the amenities you need for a comfortable and convenient stay.
Every room has a private veranda as well, so you can take in the breathtaking vistas in the comfort of your own room!
Most hotels in Boracay don’t have their own swimming pool. But the District Boracay has its own 15-meter lap pool free for guests to use.
Other facilities that guests of The District can enjoy are the gym and spa.
Definitely a great place to stay whether you’d like to work out or chill out.
I went there during my birthday and the staff was just amazing.
The best part of the District Boracay is certainly The Star Lounge on the rooftop.
It offers a laid-back nightlife experience, so you can have an intimate chat with friends over cocktails and underneath the starry sky as you enjoy the cool sea breeze.
But for those who’d like to see Boracay’s wild side, a lot of bars are just footsteps away from the hotel. The District Boracay is luxury, relaxation, and excitement all in one.
Here is our review of the hotel for more details: The District Boracay Hotel Review.
The District Boracay: Station 2, Brgy. Balabag, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan, Philippines
The Tides Hotel Boracay
Perfect for the squad
Right at the heart of the famed White Beach is The Tides Hotel Boracay.
So it’s at the center of all the action, amidst the shops, restaurants, and bars, and just footsteps away from the beach.
The rooms range from 25-30 sqm, making it ideal for couples and small groups who’d like to spend most of their time outdoors.
The Tides Hotel has their own fitness center, spa, and a rooftop restaurant.
But the most beautiful spot in the hotel is the Pelican Sky Bar. It’s a roof deck bar that has a pool, couches, and bean bags.
The hip and stylish design against the teal-orange sunset sky makes it so Instagrammable!
The Tides Hotel Boracay: D’Mall Station 2, Brgy. Balabag, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan, Philippines
Station 1
For the luxurious traveler
Station 1 is the widest and most luxurious part of White Beach.
Therefore most of the upscale hotels are in this place, and almost all of them are directly on the beach.
Station 1 is also home to the icon Willy’s Rock — probably the most photographed landmark in Boracay.
It’s a famous rock formation that even has a man-made staircase that allows tourists to climb it.
There are fewer bars and establishments in this area. So Station 1 is one of the quieter areas as well.
This is the home away from home of the luxurious travelers looking for an escape from their busy lives back in the city.
The Lind Boracay
Great rooms and facilities
The Lind Boracay is a five-star hotel that really knows how to pamper and spoil the guests.
The rooms are ultra comfortable and plush.
And having airy balconies and a view of the pool, beach, or garden, every corner of the Lind Boracay is a feast for the eyes.
But besides the rooms, the hotel also boasts amazing facilities.
An infinity pool, lap pool, jacuzzi, fitness center, kid’s club, and even a spa in partnership with the Philippines’ leading wellness brand, The Spa Wellness.
Aside from getting treated to luxe accommodations, you also get treated to a gastronomic experience in The Lind’s three different dining outlets.
Have a taste of the continental classics and the flavors of Asia at the Tartine. Savor some artisan pasta or pizza fresh from the brick oven. And to cap off the day, sip cocktails at +36 while watching the sunset!
The Lind Boracay: Station 1, Sitio Pinaungon, Brgy. Balabag, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan, Philippines
Discovery Shores Boracay
Fun for the whole family
Discover a whole level of luxury at the award-winning Discovery Shores Boracay.
This hotel was hailed as the 2018 Winner in Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence as Best for Families (Asia), and a Country Winner: Luxury Family Resort at the 2017 World Luxury Hotel Awards.
So it’s no surprise why families enjoy themselves here.
With all their facilities and activities going on, Discovery Shores Boracay certainly guarantees that every member of the family will love it here.
The hotel boasts spacious and luxurious accommodations, three restaurants, a spa, a magnificent swimming pool, a fitness facility, and a kids’ center.
But to elevate your experience, 360 Roof Lounge will give you a 36-degree view of Boracay island.
Whether you laze on the hammock or take a dip in the infinity pool or jacuzzi, this is surely the best place to relax and unwind in the island paradise.
Discovery Shores Boracay: Station 1, Barangay Balabag, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan, Philippines
Station 0
For the indulgent traveler
Station 0 is for the indulgent travelers who’d like to experience Boracay at its finest.
The beach, however, is not as long and wide as Station 1 to 3.
But Station 0 still has the same heavenly sand, crystal clear waters, and stunning sunset, with more serenity.
It has the lush greens and tranquility of Station, the grandeur of Station 1, but the unique charm that only Station 0 has.
Only guests of the hotels in the area are allowed to enter the ulta-exclusive station.
So there’s more privacy and intimacy for those checked-in.
Station 0 isn’t as buzzy and dynamic as Station 2. But hotels here are packed with different activities to keep you entertained.
The Crimson Resort and Spa
Amazing activities
If you want to know what luxury really means, stay at the Crimson Resort and Spa.
It’s located at the ultra-exclusive Station 0, so there aren’t as many bars and shops in Station 0.
But the Crimson Resort and Spa has so many activities and facilities for an exciting stay.
Rooms and villas are spacious and absolutely elegant. It’s all about indulging yourself in comfort and relaxation when you stay at the Crimson Resort and Spa.
Any great place certainly isn’t complete without great food.
The Crimson Resort and Spa has three restaurants that offer an array of international cuisine and an unforgettable gastronomical experience.
Have a hearty meal at the Saffron Cafe, munch on delectable snacks at the Azure Beach Club, and sip refreshing cocktails at the Mosaic Latin American Grill.
Above all, the Crimson Resort and Spa will not fail to give you a fun-filled experience.
Take a dip in the infinity pools and feel one with the ocean. Dance your heart out at the Foam Party. Gym buffs can keep hustlin’ at the fitness center.
Little tots can play all day at the Crimzone. Sporty guests can get competitive at the beach. And to cap off an exhausting day, have a rejuvenating massage therapy at the Aum Spa.
For more details, we also stayed there and wrote this blog post: Crimson Boracay Hotel Review.
Crimson Resort and Spa Boracay: Station 0, Brgy. Yapak, Boracay Island, Malay, Akan, Philippines
Shangri-La Boracay Resort and Spa
A haven for the nature-lovers
Nestled in Station 0 is Shangri-La Boracay Resort and Spa, where you’ll experience tropical island luxury.
The rooms and villas exude the elegance of Filipino culture.
Indeed, they’re filled with traditional materials and authentic Filipino accents.
All rooms have a private balcony and a daybed, which lets guests enjoy the fresh air and relaxing sight of the greenery.
At Shangri-La Boracay, you can get up close and personal with nature.
Guests will learn about the island’s rich flora and fauna and appreciate the beauty of nature at the Eco Centre.
Besides the Eco Centre, Shangri-La Boracay also has a Marine Sanctuary Restoration Project. It’s their effort in helping regrow sea life and coral reefs.
Other activities at Shangri-La Boracay include catamaran sailing, wakeboarding, jet skiing, and helmet diving, for example.
The calm seas are great for cruises and having a closer look at the abundant and colorful marine life.
Shangri-La Boracay Resort and Spa: Station 0, Brgy. Yapak, Boracay Island, Malay, Akan, Philippines
By passing through our link and booking a room, you’re helping us financing the amazing content that we are freely sharing with you. We call it: affiliate link. It is a commission given as advertisement fees and that do not cost more for you 🙂 Support your favorite content creators like this!
If you have any question about Boracay, let us know the comments and we hope that this guide helped you to plan your trip in Boracay in 2022!
Cheers,
2frenchinmanila
