Beautiful Boracay: a guide to the best luxury resorts
Well-known for its long stretches of white sand beaches and warm turquoise waters, there’s something for everyone on the island of Boracay in the Philippines. A centrally located island in the Philippines’ expansive archipelago and easy to reach from Manila, the island attracts all kinds of travellers who each have their own idea about what makes the perfect getaway.
The lively palm-lined White Beach on the island’s west coast is famous for its water sports and trendy hotels, bars, and restaurants, while the charming laneways behind are teeming with boutique stores and market stalls selling all kinds of fresh fruits, vegetables, and seafood. But away from all the buzz and excitement of the island’s main beach and cultural hub, Boracay’s northern tip is a luxury playground offering a selection of indulgent resorts with private beaches – all discreetly tucked away in the tranquillity of its unspoilt and leafy coastline. We’ve listed Boracay’s best luxury resorts;
Shangri-La Boracay
The frequently awarded Shangri-La Hotel in Boracay features its own private beachfront and two beautiful pools in landscaped surrounds. While rooms are spacious and well-appointed with high-quality finishings and furnishings, guests can also choose to stay in one of the resort’s secluded villas, some of which have their very own pool or hot tub.
The resort also has its seafood restaurant and clifftop bar, while romantic sunset sailing trips are also offered to guests for the ultimate exclusive Boracay experience.
Discovery Shores
Discovery Shores at the northern end of White Beach is in a peaceful setting and has been carefully designed – inside and out – to be your luxurious home away from home. Rooms are made up of modern suites with floor-to-ceiling windows to capture the views and range from one-bedroom to two-bedroom with spacious living areas. All suites feature balconies with gorgeous views and sun loungers, but the resort has plenty to offer to entice you out.
At Discovery Shores, you can enjoy sunset cocktails at its popular beach bar, relax in the pool and spa, treat yourself to a variety of spa treatments at the resort’s wellness centre, and try something new every evening at one of its 3 restaurants.
Movenpick Resort & Spa
In the idyllic setting of Punta Bunga Cove, the Movenpick Resort & Spa is set right behind its private palm-fringed beach – also boasting a huge pool area where you’ll never struggle to find a quiet space to call your own. In this beautiful natural setting, all rooms offer sweeping views of the ocean or manicured gardens while the resort is conveniently only a short stroll away from the famous Baling Hai Beach and Diniwid Beach.
Crimson Resort & Spa
Imagine morning walks on a secluded beach, retreating to a private villa at night, gazing over the ocean from an infinity pool, and spending your days lounging on a comfortable day bed – all these indulgent experiences capture the essence of a stay at the Crimson Resort & Spa. Aside from living in a true slice of natural paradise, guests will also be treated to a range of high-quality international cuisines at the hotel’s 3 oceanside restaurants boasting fresh contemporary interiors.
Henann Palm Beach Resort
Recognised for its contemporary beach club vibe, the Henann Palm Beach Resort is set around 3 outdoor pools complete with a pool bar. All rooms offer beach or pool views while the interiors are a shining example of modern-day grandeur and sophisticated style. Simply relaxing with a cocktail by the ocean or pool and enjoying a range of modern Filipino dishes at the Palm Tree restaurant are a must at the Henann Palm Beach Resort.