After spending an entire month living and working as a travel agent in beautiful Boracay, I’ve come to know this tropical paradise far beyond the usual brochure descriptions. Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or a long, laid-back stay, here’s everything you need to know – from the best places to stay and how to get here, to where you’ll find the island’s most atmospheric beach bars.
Understanding Boracay’s Stations
Boracay’s famous White Beach is divided into three main “stations,” each with its own character and appeal.
Station 1 – Home to the widest stretch of powder-white sand and the most upscale resorts, Station 1 is where you’ll find some of the island’s most relaxed and stylish beach bars. My personal favourites are Mai Tai Beach Bar and Café Got Soul, both perfect for sundowners with great music and a front-row view of the island’s famous sunsets.
Station 2 – This is the island’s beating heart, filled with restaurants, beach clubs, and shopping spots. If you’re visiting for just a few days, I’d recommend staying here – it’s lively, convenient, and puts you right in the centre of the action.
Station 3 – Quieter and more laid-back, Station 3 is ideal for longer stays or travellers who prefer a slower pace. You’ll still be close enough to Station 2’s nightlife but can retreat easily to peaceful surroundings when you’re ready to unwind.
Getting There from the UK
Travelling to Boracay from the UK is easier than you might think. The cheapest option is to book an international flight to Manila with major carriers such as Emirates, Qatar Airways, or Singapore Airlines, and then take a short low-cost domestic flight (book this separately) to Caticlan Airport (MPH).
From there, it’s a simple journey – a short transfer to Caticlan Jetty Port, followed by a quick boat ride to Boracay Island itself. The process is straightforward and well-organised, with plenty of assistance available for visitors.
Getting Around the Island
Once on the island, getting around is both easy and inexpensive. Tricycles are the most common mode of transport and run up and down the main road almost 24/7.
- A shared tricycle costs around ₱15–₱20 (25 pence) per journey, ideal for short hops between stations.
- If you prefer to travel alone or directly to your destination, a private tricycle ride costs about ₱150 (£2).
There are also motorbike taxis available for around ₱100 per journey, but they typically don’t carry helmets, so I recommend sticking with tricycles for safety and comfort.
Where to Stay – My Favourite Hotels
Hue Hotel Boracay
Although it’s not located directly on the beachfront, Hue Hotel is one of the island’s most stylish and modern stays. The highlight is the incredible central pool area that create a true resort atmosphere. It’s also connected to a mini lifestyle complex with restaurants, cafés, and shops, making it perfect for guests who like a bit of buzz without needing the beach at their doorstep.
Henann Lagoon Resort
A classic favourite for travellers looking for resort luxury at an excellent value. Henann Lagoon boasts a sprawling lagoon-style pool, swim-up bars, and comfortable rooms with balconies overlooking the water. It’s just a few minutes’ walk from White Beach, giving you a balance between relaxation and easy access to the island’s entertainment scene.
The District Boracay
Located right on the beachfront in Station 2, The District offers a more boutique, modern feel. You’ll enjoy elegant rooms, attentive service, and an unbeatable location – step outside and you’re directly on White Beach, surrounded by dining and nightlife options. The rooftop restaurant also offers fantastic views at sunset.
Boracay Ocean Club Resort & Spa
Boracay Ocean Club offers spacious swim-up rooms and a fantastic rooftop pool with nightly entertainment. It’s lively yet affordable, with friendly staff and easy access to beach activities.
If you’re travelling on a very tight budget, my top recommendation is Eurotel Boracay, where rooms start from as little as £10 per person per night.
Located in Station 2, this hotel offers excellent value for money while keeping you close to all the island’s main attractions. Rooms are air-conditioned, come with a private balcony and free Wi-Fi, and provide a comfortable base after a day in the sun.
Each morning, guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast at the on-site restaurant before heading out to explore. And with White Beach just a two-minute walk away, Eurotel Boracay is a great choice for budget-conscious travellers who still want convenience, comfort, and location without compromise.
How Much Spending Money Do You Need?
One of the best things about Boracay is that it can suit any budget.
- Meals: Local eateries serve delicious Filipino dishes from as little as ₱100 (£1.30) per meal, while high-end dining in top resorts can cost up to ₱2,000 (£26.70) per person.
- Drinks: Beers range from ₱75–₱300 (£1–£4) depending on the bar, and cocktails typically cost ₱130–₱500 (£1.75–£6.70).
- Excursions: Diving, island hopping, and party boat trips are popular and surprisingly affordable, with plenty of options for every traveller. For example a 5 hour island hopping tour would set you back around ₱1500 (£20)
- Transport: The island’s hop-on, hop-off bus service covers all the main areas for just ₱150 (£2) per day.
- Massages: Prices vary from ₱350 (£4.70) for a basic spa 1 hour massage to ₱1,500 (£20) for a luxury spa treatment, depending on where you go.
10 More Reasons to Consider Boracay for Your Next Beach Break
After a month of living on the island, I realised there’s even more to Boracay than its famous beach, lively stations, and great hotels. Here are ten additional reasons that make this destination truly special:
1. The Sunsets Are Unmatched
Every evening, the sky over White Beach transforms into a masterpiece of gold, pink, and purple. Locals and travellers alike gather on the sand just to watch it unfold – a nightly event you’ll never tire of.
2. Live Music Everywhere
From acoustic beach sets to local reggae bands and DJs, music fills the island every night. You’ll find something to suit your vibe, whether it’s a laid-back jam session or a full moon-style beach party.
3. Boracay’s Café Culture Is Growing Fast
The island’s café scene has exploded, with stylish coffee spots offering everything from cold brew to coconut lattes. Perfect for digital nomads, remote workers, or anyone who loves a lazy brunch with sea views.
4. Eco-Friendly Initiatives Are Thriving
Boracay went through a major environmental rehabilitation a few years ago, and it shows. The island is cleaner, better managed, and full of small eco-conscious businesses using bamboo straws, refill stations, and solar lights.
5. Unbelievably Clear Waters for Snorkelling
The coral gardens and marine life around the island are beautiful and easy to access. You don’t need to dive – a quick snorkel off the coast will reward you with colourful fish and crystal-clear visibility.
6. Warm Weather All Year Round
Even during the so-called “rainy season,” showers tend to be short-lived, leaving behind fresh air and clear skies. It’s a true year-round destination with temperatures staying warm and tropical.
7. A Foodie’s Paradise Beyond the Beachfront
Step just a few streets inland and you’ll discover authentic local eateries serving Filipino favourites like adobo, sinigang, and seafood straight from the market – often at a fraction of the price of beachfront dining.
8. Incredible Day Trips Nearby
Beyond Boracay itself, you can hop over to nearby islands like Crystal Cove or Ariel’s Point for cliff jumping, snorkelling, or quiet coves – perfect for day adventures away from the crowds.
9. A Great Base for Digital Nomads and Long Stays
With reliable Wi-Fi, comfortable co-working cafés, and plenty of monthly rental options, Boracay is becoming a hotspot for remote workers who want to mix business with beach life. There are quite frequent Brown Outs (power cuts) but most buildings have generators.
10. It’s Just the Right Size
At only seven kilometres long, Boracay is compact enough to explore easily but big enough to offer variety. You can walk, cycle, or tricycle from one end to the other in a day, discovering hidden gems along the way.
Boracay truly lives up to its reputation as one of the world’s best islands. From luxury beachfront resorts to vibrant nightlife, calm stretches of sand, and endless water adventures – it offers something for everyone.
Whether you’re visiting for a few days or settling in for a month like I did, you’ll quickly find that Boracay’s charm lies not only in its beauty but also in its friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
