If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, velvety white sand, and sunsets that look like they have been painted across the sky, visiting Boracay Philippines is the destination that belongs at the very top of your list. Boracay is a small island in the central Philippines. Often hailed as one of the world’s best island getaways, Boracay combines natural beauty, warm hospitality, and vibrant island culture into an experience that keeps travelers coming back again and again.
Last year we traveled to Cebu Philippines and it ended up being one of the best family vacations we’ve ever had. So when it came time to decide where to visit for this year’s Fall break, heading back to the Philippines was an easy decision. There is no doubt that the foundation of our nearly perfect week started and ended with the amazing Shangri-La Boracay. I can’t say enough wonderful words about our stay there.
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Table of Contents
Getting to Boracay
Despite its small size, Boracay is easy to reach through Caticlan Airport (MPH), a small one stop shop that is rustic but effective. We had to stop over in Manila, but it wasn’t long. Once we arrived, we were whisked away in a shuttle van for a quick 5 minute ride to the port, where a speed boat was waiting to take us to our little island oasis. It felt bougie, in the best way. There was a feeling of awe as our boat pulled up to the private dock of the Shangri-La. We had our toes in the sand by dinner time, accompanied by a perfect sunset.
The Star of the Show – the Beaches
The first two days of our trip were filled with exploring the 2 beaches that sat at the base of the Shangri-La, the private Banyugan Beach and the famous Punta Bunga Beach. They have the most temperate turquoise waters, with gentle waves and abundant seashells. I had my obligatory coconut smoothie and soaked up all the rays. There was some snorkeling at Punta Bunga, which is known for ocean activities, such as wind surfing and parasailing.
In recent years, Boracay Philippines has undergone an impressive transformation. Once facing overcrowding and environmental strain from its rapidly growing popularity, the Philippine government temporarily closed the island in 2018 for a major rehabilitation. This bold move led to beach and water revitalization, stricter sustainability regulations, and eco-friendly tourism practices. Today, Boracay is healthier, greener, and more beautiful than ever—serving as a model for responsible tourism around the world.
Pandan, Seashells and Typhoons, Oh My!
Even among the Philippines’ 7,641 islands, Boracay stands out. There is just something about this relaxed little island that leaves a big impression. Boracay Philippines has a rustic, natural feel, like discovering a hidden gem in the most unexpected place. Here were a few things that surprised us on our trip!
Surviving Typhoons
While we came with plans to be beach bums, we did have a Typhoon roll through that took the beach out of commission for a few days. With wild wind, pouring rain and big surf, these storms can be very devastating to the population of these small islands. Fortunately, this one wasn’t too bad and we made the best of it by visiting the Shangri-La Chi Spa, game room (complete with VR, ping pong, pool and more), hitting the pool in the rain and ordering room service like true vacationers.
Despite the storm raging outside, the staff were attentive, well prepared and drove us all over in covered golf carts, so we could still enjoy all the amenities without getting soaked. Once the storm cleared and the beach was cleaned up, it was back to the regularly scheduled program of enjoying the grounds.
Pandan – My New Favorite Treat
Filipino dishes like adobo, lechon, halo-halo, and fresh seafood offer flavors you won’t find anywhere else, but the real star for me was Pandan. How I missed it on our first trip to Cebu, I will never know, but this gorgeous green ingredient makes everything taste better!
Pandan, often called the “vanilla of Southeast Asia,” is a fragrant tropical plant prized for its sweet, floral aroma and vibrant green color. Its long, blade-like leaves are used to flavor everything from rice and curries to desserts like cakes, jellies, and the popular Filipino buko pandan. My personal favorite was added to a custard croissant and layered in yogurt parfaits. I went through withdrawals our first week back, but I’m determined to use it in a recipe soon enough.
Beyond the Beach
Boracay, Philippines is divided into three main “stations”, each offering its own vibes and experience. Station 1 is known for its wide beachfront, luxury resorts, and peaceful atmosphere. Station 3 has a more laid-back, rustic feel with quieter stretches of sand and budget-friendly stays. Sitting right in the middle is Station 2, the bustling heart of the island.
A Night out in Station 2
Beachfront cafés, night markets, and sunset bars give Boracay a vibrant side. We headed out for an evening in Station 2, with a walk through of D’Mall and White Beach. It was bustling and full of all the touristy shops that one could need. While we didn’t have the best meal of our lives, it was fun to step into the lively nightlife of Boracay. English is readily spoken but we did bring along Pesos to use for small purchases.
Filipinos are known for their friendliness, hospitality, and genuine care for visitors, this was evident everywhere we went. From Spanish colonial influences to Indigenous traditions, the Philippines has a unique and colorful cultural blend.
A Few Goodies That I Was Happy We Brought
There were a few items that I was very happy I remembered to pack along with us, here they are:
- Table Topics Travel Edition: These are hit for my whole family and make screen free dinners so much fun! My daughter remembers to bring them to all our meals.
- Kopari Sun Shield, SPF 45: My new favorite sunscreen, and this is from a sensitive skin family. It has a hint of shimmer and goes on so nicely.
- You Shouldn’t Have Come Here: A perfect vacation read, complete with some surprise twists.
- Perfect Beach Tote: Perfect for carrying all your sunscreens, books and cover-ups down to the beach from your hotel room.
Final Thoughts
This trip was yet another home run for the Philippines. From Seoul, it’s only a 4–5 hour flight (plus any layovers), which makes it an easy pick for us—but even if you’re coming from much farther away, it’s absolutely worth the journey. Whether you’re drawn to Boracay’s sparkling shoreline, its beautifully restored natural landscape, or the feel-good island energy, Boracay, Philippines has a magnetic pull that keeps travelers returning time and time again.
exploring:
This looks like my kind of place for a relaxing vacation!
I can’t recommend it enough!
I hadn’t realized this was such a short trip from Seoul. Looks like a wonderfully relaxing vacation spot.
Hello! Boracay is such a charming place! I guess every tourist knows about its white-sandy beaches. I like you mentioned not only well-known highlights, but other interesting places & activities.
The Philippines are on our travel wish list but we don’t yet have a plan of where to visit. We are big water fans so will definitely want to visit Borocay. Although hopefully we will miss the typhoons! Glad it did not ruin your trip.
Both Boracay and Cebu have had some of the best “water” experience our family has ever had, can’t recommend it enough! I hope your travels take you there!
We visited Boracay as a family about ten years ago. I agree the beaches are awesome. We did a snorkeling tour and I had to laugh at the “Ice cream man” who came out in a boat to sell his wares.
Ha! There is not many limits when selling tourist items, we did find lots of peace on the private beach from local sellers.
What a beautiful relaxing place. It looks so charming.
It was one stunning view after another. I’ve been spoiled by the warm waters and lush landscapes.
Such a beautiful recap of your trip! Boracay has that rare mix of unreal beaches, warm hospitality, and a relaxed island vibe, and you captured it perfectly. I love that you returned after visiting Cebu—once the Philippines hooks you, it’s hard not to go back. Your stay at the Shangri-La sounds dreamy, and that moment of pulling up to the private dock must have felt like stepping straight into a postcard.
The mix of beach days, typhoon adventures, exploring Station 2, and soaking in the island’s culture makes this such a fun read. And yes—Filipino hospitality really is something special. This post has me craving turquoise water, pandan treats, and a sunny White Beach walk!