Known for its white sands and world-class hospitality, Boracay has made its mark as a prime tropical destination. Its inviting sun, tranquil seas, and fine sands make the perfect beach getaway. Apart from its pristine white shores and crystal blue waters, Boracay also boasts an array of accommodation choices. Renowned hotel chains, boutique resorts, and chic B&Bs line up its shores.

With the famed island’s reopening to the public, the local government has imposed guidelines to ensure the safety of its visitors. Upon entering the island, tourists must present a printed booking confirmation from an accommodation approved by the Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT). To see the full list of accredited hotels and resorts, check out the official website of the Province of Aklan.

3 sections divide Boracay’s White Beach: Station 1, Station 2, and Station 3. I’ll describe each section below in detail. To help you choose the right one, we listed the best hotels in Boracay for each station.

The Best Hotels For Each Station

Station 1: Discovery Shores Boracay

If you wish to treat and pamper yourself, Station 1 is the place to be. The quiet beach and its shallow waters help you de-stress after a long trip. Boracay’s most spacious station offers a front-row view of the island’s white sands. You can also witness the gorgeous Boracay sunset on top of Station 1’s famous Willy’s Rock. Station 1 has the most luxurious vibe of all three stations. If you value privacy and enjoy the finer things in life, this station is your best bet. Make the best out of your five-star vacation by staying at Discovery Shores Boracay. A favorite among island regulars, this award-winning resort features two outdoor pools, a world-renowned wellness spa, and two of the Philippines’ best restaurants: Indigo Restaurant and Sands Restaurant. 

Pros:

• Shallow water
• Private and quiet
• Offers a spectacular view of Boracay’s white sands and fiery sunset

Cons: 

• Quite pricey
• Limited nightlife

Station 2: COAST Boracay Resort

Station 2 is best for those who want to be in the middle of the action. This is where you’ll find Boracay’s outdoor mall (D’Mall) and seafood market (D’Talipapa). Filled with restaurants and nightclubs, Station 2 offers no dull moments.

To match the station’s good vibes, check in at COAST Boracay Resort. This chic resort blends contemporary design with Filipino craftsmanship. Handmade accent weaves from Mindanao adorn each room. Its cozy style, location, and price make this resort the best in Station 2. The resort’s Cha-Cha’s Beach Cafe transforms into a bar at night. With live DJs every night, it has become one of the most famous happy-hour spots on the island.

Pros:

• Vibrant nightlife
• Plenty of restaurant choices
• Places are accessible and within reach

Cons: 

• Can be loud
• Can be crowded

Station 3: Asya Premier Suites

If you’re planning to visit Boracay for some soul-searching, you’ll love Station 3. Coined as the most peaceful part of Boracay, this station helps ground you in the present moment. Resorts in Station 3 have a laid-back feel. 

Our favorite, Asya Premier Suites, provides state-of-the-art amenities. Their bamboo decor and lush tropical plants make you feel like you’re in Bali or Phuket. Whether you’re meditating under a palm tree or sipping a drink by the quiet beach, you’ll find your peace here. Unlike other resorts, only a few people from other hotels walk along its beach.

Pros:

• Quiet beach
• Peaceful and laid-back
• Excellent area for snorkeling
• Lots of nature and palm trees 

Cons:

• Minimal nightlife
• Not ideal for swimming as water becomes deep

Station Zero: Crimson Resort and Spa Boracay

Situated on ‘Station Zero’, Crimson Resort and Spa Boracay is 2.8km away from Boracay’s White Beach. The resort provides exclusive access to undisturbed white sand beaches and clear waters. Minimalist design and furniture with modern flair embellish Crimson’s spacious rooms and villas. Aside from its top-tier spa facility, the resort also offers plenty of water sports and activities. Crimson hosts foam parties on Saturdays, too. The resort’s restaurants also serve exceptional gastronomic delights. The Saffron Cafe serves delectable global cuisines. Lovers of South American food must try the Mosaic Latin American Grill. If you’re looking for a posh place to drink and unwind, head over to the Azure Beach Club.

Pros:

• Private beach
• Exclusive facilities

Cons:

• Limited nightlife
• Away from the landmarks of White Beach

Best Overall: Shangri-La Boracay Resort and Spa

Nestled in a secluded beach on Boracay’s pristine northern coast, Shangri-La Boracay Resort and Spa offers the best views on the island. It stands on a hilltop overlooking the sea. Although it’s about a kilometer past Station 1, you may not want to leave the premises at all. Shangri-La provides everything you’ll ask for on a vacation. Apart from the five-star amenities, the resort also takes pride in its unparalleled quality of service. Upon landing, resort personnel will usher you to a private lounge as you wait for your speed boat. The private boat will ferry you to Shangri-La’s own pier, where hotel staff will welcome you with live music and dancing. It’s no wonder why many – including us! – consider this resort is the best on the entire island.

Pros:

• private and quiet
• breathtaking views
• exceptional service
• only 500m away from Puka Beach

Cons: 

• Pricey
• Minimal nightlife
• Away from the landmarks of White Beach

Conclusion

The beautiful island of Boracay has plenty to offer – crystal clear sea, sugary-white sand, hospitable people, and so much more! Each hotel has its own pros and cons. The same goes for the stations. Take note that a disadvantage for one person may be an advantage for another. Whatever hotel you pick has something unique to offer. It’s only a matter of preference. We hope this guide helped you decide on where to stay on your upcoming Boracay trip.