The island of Boracay in Aklan, Western Visayas, is not to be missed among the top Philippine beach destinations.
Boracay is famous for its four-kilometer-long white beach, gorgeous sunsets, and seaside nightlife. Adventure seekers will be spoiled for choice, given activities like banana boating, parasailing, skimboarding, Jet Skiing, island-hopping, helmet diving, riding the Zorb or Hurricane inflatables, ATVing, beach volleyball, yoga, and more.
But picking a place to stay can be tricky. The bone-shaped island has multiple areas, notably the three White Beach stations and other beaches, each with unique charms and advantages. For this story, we’ll highlight Station 1 (White Beach, north) and Station Zero or those located on Barangay Yapak, the northernmost area of the island.
Considered the most luxurious of the Boracay stations, Station 1 boasts the most expansive area of White Beach and a shallow surf. Resorts and other establishments are more spaced out here, giving the area a quieter, more upscale feel. The island’s famous Willy’s Rock is also in this area. Meanwhile, the so-called Station Zero is located beyond Station 1 and Diniwid Beach, along Punta Bunga Beach. This area of Boracay’s Barangay Yapak is considered a more exclusive location for tourists.
Check out Part 2 here for our recommended resorts on Stations 2 and 3, as well as the island’s Bulabog Beach.
Hot tip: The government of Aklan requires tourists to register and pay environmental and transport fees at the Tourist Registration Counter before boarding the seacraft headed to Boracay Island. Your hotel or resort can help speed up this process by having you fill out the form ahead of time and prepay the transfer fees. You should ask about it when booking your stay.
Keep reading for a list of our top picks out of the many resorts on this island paradise:
1. Shangri-La Boracay
Barangay Yapak, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan
Website and contact info: +6336-2884988, [email protected]
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Shangri-La Boracay is on the island’s northwestern tip, and stays here are pure indulgence. The resort boasts a “seaside sanctuary fronting two secluded beaches.” With its azure waters and lushly landscaped tropical garden, you’re sure to enjoy gorgeous views no matter which of its 219 rooms or villas you book.
Resort facilities include access to Punta Bunga and Banyugan white sand beaches, a large main swimming pool, a lap pool, a health club, a tennis court, a dive center, and the various massage services at Chi, The Spa.
For kids and the young at heart, the Adventure Zone features an indoor playground, drop slide, activity corner, and daily scheduled activities like arts and crafts or scavenger hunts. The Entertainment Centre boasts arcade games, karaoke, and ping-pong and pool tables. The Eco Centre offers environmental activities like fish feeding and a nature trek.
Room rates at Shangri-La Boracay vary, but their current online sale has these starting at PHP18,888 net per night, including breakfast and roundtrip van and speedboat transfers. Check out promos and packages including early bird and members’ exclusive rates at shangboracay.ph/offers.
2. Discovery Shores Boracay
Station 1, White Beach, Barangay Balabag, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan
Website and contact info: +63917-627 3780 (Reservations), +63917-6258507 (Front Office), [email protected]
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The award-winning Discovery Boracay is another top pick for luxury and indulgence. Known for its “service that’s all heart,” the resort prides itself in its top-notch hospitality, whether it’s in the staff for the 99 suites, three restaurants, two bars, rooftop lounge, Terra Wellness Spa, or various facilities.
If you’re looking for a jam-packed vacation, you’ll enjoy the fully equipped fitness facility and multiple options for water and land activities, including ATV and buggy rides, paddleboarding, paraw sailing, parasailing, and more that the resort staff can help arrange for you.
Family fun options include mermaid dress-ups, daily activities and playtime at The Sandbox Kids Room, and the kiddie pool. Mom and Dad will also appreciate the in-house babysitting service offered by the resort. The pool is not to be missed either, especially with the jacuzzi, poolside bar, and poolside butlers offering inflatable toys, free snacks and ice-cold pandan water, and Evian face spray, among other ways to spoil guests.
Current rates range from about PHP21,600 excluding taxes and fees for a one-bedroom suite with breakfast included. Rates increase for one-bedroom premier rooms, which feature a private jacuzzi on your balcony, and for two-bedroom suites and premier options. Direct bookings may enjoy additional savings, and you may also be able to avail of seasonal, early bird, or long-stay discounts. Just check the Special Offers page on their website for more information.
3. Crimson Resort & Spa Boracay
Station Zero, Barangay Yapak, Boracay
Website and contact info: +63998-5964626, [email protected]
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You’ll love this resort for its private white sand beach, crystal clear blue waters, and gorgeous infinity pools.
Facilities to enjoy include the full-service AUM Spa, an Art Room where you can check out exhibits from local artists and also create your own masterpieces, the Crimson Kids’ Club with indoor and outdoor play dens, a kiddie Pirate Ship, organic foam parties held every Saturday, and three different full-sized pools plus a kiddie pool.
While rack rates for the resort range between about PHP32,500 for a Deluxe Hillview Room to over PHP100,000 for a Signature Beachfront Villa, direct bookings through the website will give you best-rate offers, sometimes with massive discounts. A recent check saw rates ranging from PHP11,350 to PHP36,350 a night with 65% off the regular rates. You can also check out the Offers page on the Crimson website for local residents, long stays, and other promos.
4. Mövenpick Resort & Spa Boracay
Punta Bunga Cove, Barangay Yapak, Boracay, Malay, Aklan
Website and contact info: +6336-2882256, [email protected]
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This resort in Station Zero along Punta Bunga Beach offers a premium Boracay experience with its long and quiet beachfront, huge multilevel pool, and spacious rooms. The resort’s seven restaurants and bars offer a variety of cuisines, and its Sol Marina Beach Club has featured a mix of local and international DJs and performers.
You can max out relaxation at the Sagay Spa, and couples can avail of Romantic Dinner packages, or they and their families or friends can indulge in a Sunset Picnic package. And get the sweet deal of complimentary chocolate at the resort’s daily Chocolate Hour.
Current rates as published on the resort’s booking system are PHP8,200 to PHP9,200 for a room for two people; PHP13,700 to PHP16,200 for a family room or suite for up to four; and PHP43,200 to PHP53,200 for a suite or villa good for up to six people.
5. The Lind
Station 1, White Beach, Barangay Balabag, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan
Website and contact info: +632-8835888, [email protected]
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Modern tropical luxury is the vibe you’ll get when staying at the Lind. This resort boasts a wide beachfront with several beach loungers for your use, a lap pool, a children’s pool, a jacuzzi, a gym, a kids’ club with an indoor play area and video game play facilities, and five-star spa services at The Spa Wellness.
For dining options, Tartine offers an international menu, while Crust serves Mediterranean fare. For lighter fare, cocktails, and more, the +36 lounge is a good bet.
Current rates range from PHP21,314 to PHP40,533 (tax inclusive) per night depending on room type and view. However, rates are dynamic and may be cheaper on weekdays than weekends or holidays. You may want to check out special packages available for your booking dates, including those that include spa treatments or other services or experiences, or ones for multiple nights’ stays.
6. Astoria Boracay
Station 1, Barangay Balabag, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan
Website and contact info: +63908-8727922 (Reservations), +63969-2855611 (Front Office), [email protected]
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If you’ve stayed in other Astoria Hotels and Resorts, you’ll find this one is the OG. Not to say the resort offers you anything less than a premium modern experience. Its interiors mix the bright energy of the tropics with calming earthy tones and natural materials.
Amenities include a pool with poolside and submerged loungers, a kiddie pool, an Instagram-friendly and lush garden area, a gym, and access to a wide beachfront in the more exclusive Station 1.
Directly booking via the Astoria Boracay website can see you with as much as 25 to 35 percent off the published rates, which start at PHP16,600 per night for a deluxe room. Check out the resort’s Special Offers page for info on more discounts, such as for multi-night stays or when you pay with specific credit cards.
7. Henann Prime Beach Resort
Station 1, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan
Website and contact info: +6336-2889200, [email protected]
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Accommodations here aren’t just prime because of its Station 1 location—this was also Henann Group’s first beachfront resort. The property boasts a modern coastal design with over 150 rooms, some with Henann’s signature direct pool access. In-resort dining is available at Sea Salt, which overlooks the beach and features Asian fusion dishes.
Henann Prime Beach Resort has three swimming pools, one in the Beach Wing and two adjacent pools in the East Wing. With its access to the Station 1 beach, you’ll get the prime white sand without the crowds of Station 2 or 3, so it’ll be great for swimming or just lounging. The resort also has a gym and fitness center.
Rates for the Henann Prime Beach Resort are dynamic, but a search of their website booking engine yielded rooms for two for as low as PHP5,454 per night.
8. Henann Crystal Sands Resort
Station 1 (between Boat Station 1 and D’Mall), Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan
Website and contact info: +63915-9823998 (Manila Office), +6336-2889222 to 26 (Resort), [email protected]
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Pool lovers will love the choices when staying at the Henann Crystal Sands Resort. The ground floor pools are in Henann’s signature style, two adjacent pools between the buildings. There’s also the Sky Pool on the second level of the resort, from which you can view the beach and its stunning sunsets. Meanwhile, beach bums will appreciate the 30-meter stretch of white sand this resort claims as its own.
Foodie options include the Sapphire, which features international modern coastal cuisine and Filipino-inspired interiors, and the sunken Crystal Pool Bar at the Sky Pool. Other facilities include a gym and fitness center and a business center.
Rates for the Henann Crystal Sands Resort are dynamic and change daily, but we were able to find rooms for two for as low as PHP7,070 per night.
9. Savoy Hotel Boracay Newcoast
Newcoast Drive, Boracay Newcoast, Barangay Yapak, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan
Website and contact info +63917-8284663, [email protected]
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With rooms for solo travelers, couples, and families, the Savoy Hotel Boracay Newcoast offers tourists bright, clean, comfortable, and affordable accommodations away from the more crowded areas of the island. The hotel has two large pool areas: one that’s perfect for sunbathing and lounging (and swimming, of course!), right by the Chambray Pool Bar; and another one that’s meant for events and pool parties, complete with a stage area. Guests can indulge in their spa and wellness center, or keep those beach bods toned at the hotel gym. The young and young at heart can while away the time in the games area.
While the Savoy Hotel Boracay Newcoast doesn’t have direct access to Boracay Newcoast’s private beach, it is only a seven-minute walk away (through the private beach community’s commercial areas). It’s also a 10-minute drive to Puka Beach or 15 mintues to D’Mall and everything Station 2 has to offer. The resort offers free scheduled shuttles to and from D’Mall, just check with the concierge. The resort also offers bicycle rental, bike tours, water sports facilities, and more. (Learn more about Savoy Boracay in this feature.)
Published rates start at PHP7,500 per night, but special offers can see you with over 50 percent off these rates, with direct booking rates as low as PHP3,300 per night for two people.
Planning a trip to Boracay? Which of these resorts would you like to stay at? Whichever you pick, make sure you don’t miss the chance to dig your toes into that powdery white sand, catch a glorious sunset, and indulge in an adventure or two (or three or four)!
Don’t forget to check out more Boracay resort options here, featuring those on Stations 2 and 3 as well as Bulabog Beach!
