Where to stay on Boracay

Boracay is a small island in the central Philippines, famous for White Beach, around four kilometres of powdery sand on its west coast. After a six-month closure for environmental rehabilitation in 2018, it reopened with stricter rules, and it remains one of Asia's best-loved beach destinations.

White Beach is divided into three 'stations', named after old boat stops. The places we list are at Station 1 and quieter Station 3, plus one near Bulabog Beach on the windy east side.

Getting there
Fly to Caticlan or Kalibo, then a short boat from Caticlan jetty
Fees
Environmental and terminal fees are charged on arrival
Getting around
On foot along the beach path, or by e-trike
Kitesurfing
Bulabog Beach, best from about November to April

Places to stay in Boracay

6 hotels

"Our order" puts hotels we have fully written up first. Commission doesn't affect the order.

Boracay, area by area

White Beach runs along the west coast from Station 1 in the north to Station 3 in the south. Bulabog Beach is across the narrow island to the east.

Station 1

Best for the widest sand and upscale stays

The northern end of White Beach has the widest stretch of sand and many of the island's larger resorts, with Willy's Rock, a small shrine on a rock in the shallows, as a landmark.

Station 2

Best for shopping, food and nightlife

The middle of White Beach is the busiest, with D'Mall, restaurants, bars and water sports operators.

Station 3

Best for quieter beach days and value

The southern end, sometimes called Angol, is calmer and more local, with smaller hotels and good-value restaurants, yet only a short walk from Station 2.

Bulabog Beach

Best for kitesurfing and windsurfing

On the east coast, Bulabog Beach catches the wind in the north-east monsoon and is the island's kitesurfing and windsurfing hub. It's a few minutes' walk across the island from White Beach.

Questions about staying in Boracay

Which station is best on Boracay?

Station 1 for wide sand and resorts, Station 2 for nightlife and shopping, Station 3 for a quieter, better-value stay.

How do I get to Boracay?

Fly to Caticlan, which is a few minutes from the jetty, or to Kalibo, about 1.5 to 2 hours away by road. A short boat crosses to the island.

Is Boracay good for families?

Yes. White Beach has calm, shallow water for much of the year, and Station 3 and Station 1 are quieter than the busy centre.

Can I swim at White Beach all year?

Usually, yes, though the sea can be rougher during the south-west monsoon, roughly June to October.

What else is there to do?

Sunset paraw sailing, island-hopping to Puka Beach and Crystal Cove, snorkelling and the viewpoint at Mount Luho.

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