Where to Stay in Boracay (2020 • COOLEST Areas!)

Boracay is a tiny island in the Philippines that’s only 7km long but packs a big punch. It’s the postcard perfect image of a tropical island, with warm, temperate weather, white sandy beaches, and crystal-clear water. Boracay has often been called the ‘New Phuket’ and it lives up to the hype as well. More and more discerning travelers are adding this tropical island to their South Asian explorations, so get there before it really explodes!

This island is small, but it still isn’t easy to find the best places to stay in Boracay, mostly because there are so many options in such a tiny area. But that’s why we’ve created this Boracay neighborhood guide, to help you find your ideal accommodation, so you can get on with the fun parts of your trip!

So, if you’re ready to book your relaxing beach vacation with a difference, then here’s a guide to the coolest places to stay in Boracay.

Quick Tips – Where to Stay in Boracay

• Where to stay in Boracay first time – Bulabog Beach
• Where to stay in Boracay on a budget – Station 3
• Best neighborhood in Boracay for families – Station 1
• Best area to stay in Boracay for nightlife – Station 2
• The Coolest place to stay in Boracay – Tambisaan Beach

Where to Stay in Boracay

Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Boracay.

Best Hostel in Boracay: Frendz Resort & Hostel Boracay

If you’re looking for the best location possible, then this hostel in Boracay delivers. It’s just two minutes’ walk from the beach and close to local eateries and nightlife options. The hostel offers lots of activities so you can socialize and get to know your fellow travelers as well as private and dorm rooms.

Best Airbnb in Boracay: Bamboo Bungalows Rest House

This bungalow is simply amazing. It’s located in the best neighborhood in Boracay to stay in if you want to be close to the beach but also have your own private oasis. It’s within walking distance of the beach but on a quiet street, so you won’t have any trouble relaxing or sleeping. And the space is airy and bright, contains a kitchen and bathroom, and everything else you’ll need for a relaxing stay.

Best Hotel in Boracay: Boracay Haven Resort

Whether you’re trying to decide where to stay in Boracay for families or with friends, this hotel has everything you’ll need. It has a fitness center with a pool, laundry facilities, massage services, and a free shuttle. The rooms are clean and comfortable and there’s a bar and restaurant on site so you can have a meal and a drink at the end of a long day.

Boracay Neighborhood Guide

Boracay is a small island, only 7km long, and yet it packs a lot into the small area. White Beach is the centrepiece, where most people stay and spend the bulk of their time. It’s around 4km long and broken up into 3 main areas: Station 1, Station 2, and Station 3. These names hark back to the island’s history, when boat stations were located in these areas and welcoming tourists from the mainland. Each of the three stations have their own vibe, appeal, and attractions, and are among the best places in Boracay to stay.

The first area to consider when you’re looking for Boracay accommodation options is Bulabog Beach. This is on the eastern side of the island, directly across from Station 2, and offers a great mix of amazing water activities and accommodation at every price point.

If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Boracay on a budget, then consider Station 3. This is a quieter backpacker area that most travelers ignore. And that’s a good thing because it means that the surrounding area is relatively untouched.

Station 1 is a more luxurious area that’s filled with resorts surrounds a section of beach with shallow waters, suitable for almost any size traveler. It’s also close to Station 2, so you can head in there any time for a meal or for shopping.

And when you’re trying to decide where to stay in Boracay for nightlife, you can’t go past Station 2. This is basically the island’s center, where all the action is, and the bars and restaurants in the area are first rate.

And finally, you have Tambisaan Beach, one of the coolest places to stay in Boracay for its incredible array of marine life and more authentic, local vibe.

Boracay’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in

If you’re ready to explore this amazing island, then here are some of the best areas to stay in Boracay no matter what your travel preferences are.

#1 Bulabog Beach – Where to Stay in Boracay First Time

Bulabog Beach is the best area in Boracay to stay in for your first trip. It’s on the eastern side of the island, directly across from Station 2 and has a young vibe and sporty atmosphere. Best of all, the more touristy parts of the island are just ten minutes away, so you can head over there for some more action before retreating to your quieter Boracay accommodation.

Bulabog Beach is known for its water sports. The winds on the eastern side of the island are extremely strong, so the wind-surfing and kite-boarding are very good in this area. And best of all, there are lots of cheaper accommodation options on this part of the island, which makes it idea when you’re deciding where to stay in Boracay on a budget.

Things to See and Do in Bulabog Beach

– Take advantage of the wind and go kite boarding or wind surfing.

– Head over to White Beach to enjoy the gentle waves.

– Go snorkeling and explore the reef around the beach.

– Try some other water sports like paddle boarding, jet skiing, or kayaking.

– Head over to the D’Mall for great souvenir shopping and dining.

– Make your way up to Puka Shell Beach to enjoy beach activities without the crowds.

– Visit Zipline Boracay for amazing views over the whole island.

– Try some local food at Happy Home or Munchies.

Best Hostel in Bulabog Beach: Nooky Hostel in Boracay Island

This hostel is one of the best places in Boracay to stay if you like new facilities. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a day on the beach with a rooftop hangout and modern, clean shared dorms and communal bathrooms. It’s also close to the beach and local eateries.

Best Airbnb in Bulabog Beach: Room in Kite Beach

This studio apartment overlooks Bulabog Beach and has stunning 270 degree views. The space is bright and welcoming and the apartment is in one of the best areas to stay in Boracay if you want a bit of peace and quiet during your holiday.

Best Hotel in Bulabog Beach: Luxury Suites at Karuna Boracay Suites

Located in the best neighborhood to stay in Boracay, this hotel is close to White Beach without being right in the middle of the crowds. It offers luxurious, clean, comfortable rooms with seating areas and room service. There are massage services, babysitting, car rental services and a tour desk on site for the ultimate in convenience.

#2 Station 3 – Where to Stay in Boracay on a Budget

Station 3 is one of Boracay’s best neighborhoods if you’re on a tighter budget or want some peace and quiet. This is the area where backpackers tend to congregate, as the accommodation is cheaper, allowing you to spend all of your money on activities, food, and souvenirs. And like most places on Boracay, Station 3 is within easy walking distance of the main beach and all its attractions, so you won’t miss out on any of the fun.

One of the biggest draws of Station 3 is the pristine natural surroundings. Not only is the beach ideal, with gentle waters and pristine sand, but the whole area is close to its natural state. That means you’ll get to swim, stay, and eat surrounded by lush greenery. This natural state makes Station 3 seem impossibly peaceful, especially considering the fact that it’s so close to the busiest parts of the island.

Things to See and Do in Station 3

– Relax in one of the chilled out local bars like the GR8 Art Bar and Resto or CocoLoco Bar and Restaurant.

– Go swimming and enjoy the quiet, calm waters.

– Go deeper underwater by learning to dive or flexing your diving skills!

– Grab a snack or some souvenirs at the Budget Mart E-Mall.

– Devour an early breakfast at the Sunny Side Café.

– Grab a cheap and tasty meal at Sulu Plaza or Prana Restaurant.

Best Hostel in Station 3: My Hostel Boracay

This hostel in Boracay is perfectly positioned to allow you to explore the island. It offers shared or private rooms with ensuite bathrooms and a free continental breakfast every morning. There’s also a roof top terrace and bar where you can have a drink and get to know your fellow travelers.

Best Airbnb in Station 3: Loft Apartment

This cozy apartment must be in any Boracay neighborhood guide. It’s just 80m from Station 3 and the beach and offers clean, bright spaces with complete privacy. There’s a fully equipped kitchen and bathroom in the apartment, which has enough space for up to 4 guests.

Best Hotel in Station 3: Le Soleil de Boracay

Located in the best neighborhood in Boracay to stay if you want to a little bit of peace while still being close to all the action, this hotel is a good choice for travelers of all kinds. It has a private beach, indoor pool, gym, beauty center, bar, and a café, so you basically don’t need to leave the hotel at all if you don’t want to!

#3 Station 1 – Best Neighborhood in Boracay for Families

If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Boracay with kids, then Station 1 is ideal. It’s located at the northern end of White Beach, the most popular beach in Boracay, and contains many of the island’s best resorts. It also has a wider beach with quiet waters that are perfect for even the smallest member of your travel group. And of course, it offers all the same water sports as more touristy parts of the island.

As an added bonus, Station 1 is also within easy reach of Station 2 with all its shops and nightlife and also has its own bars, clubs and restaurants to keep you entertained. This makes it a good choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Boracay for nightlife as well as for the more family orientated traveler.

Things to See and Do in Station 1

– Head down to White Beach to enjoy the crowds.

– Enjoy the warm water close to the shore or head out into the deeper, colder water for amazing marine life.

– Check out Willy’s Rock, a volcanic remnant that looks amazing in pictures.

– Just relax on the sand and get some sun.

– Check out some of the local bars like the Aplaya Beach Bar, or Paraw Beach Club.

– Try some local and international dishes at Kasbah Boracay, the Indigo Restaurant, or Army Navy.

Best Hostel in Station 1: Chillax Flashpackers

Located in the best area in Boracay to stay if you want to be close to the beach and to local eateries, this hostel is perfectly positioned in Station 1. The hostel is dedicated to sustainable practices, from using recycled building materials to reusing gray water on the gardens, so you’ll be helping save the planet when you stay there! It also offers clean, modern dorm rooms and facilities.

Best Airbnb in Station 1: Nonna House’s Room

Nonna’s House is cozy, welcoming, and located in the best neighborhood to stay in Boracay if you want to be close to the beach. You can walk to the local beaches as well as eateries or make your own dinner inn the small kitchenette. The house has a private entrance, for complete privacy during your stay, and is large enough to fit 2 guests comfortably.

Best Hotel in Station 1: Bluewaves Westcliff Villa

This hotel in Boracay is close to local shops and eateries, so you’ll never get hungry or bored while you’re staying there. It boasts a massage service, outdoor pool, tour desk, and room service as well as spacious, clean and comfortable rooms with all the usual amenities.

#4 Station 2 – Best Area to Stay in Boracay for Nightlife

Station 2 is basically the island’s center for tourists and activities. It’s filled with shops, restaurants, and bars, which makes it the best neighborhood to stay in Boracay if you like a busy, slightly noisy holiday. Because it’s so popular, there are also lots of hotels and other accommodation options in this part of the island, so you should be able to find somewhere to stay no matter what your budget is.

Station 2 is in the middle of Stations 1 and 3, so it offers the best of both worlds. This area has a famous party atmosphere, so don’t expect quiet, peaceful nights or early mornings to explore. The beach off Station 2 is ideal for quick dips as it’s shallow and warm, which makes it a good choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Boracay for families.

Things to See and Do in Station 2

– Try local and international dishes at Natalia’s Kusina, the Great Wall Restaurant, or Chinese Royal Cuisine.

– Head over to D’Mall for amazing shopping and eating.

– Grab a drink at bars like the Exit Bar, Summer Place, or Epic.

– Head up to Ariel’s Point for amazing views and some serious cliff diving.

– Take an island-hopping tour to explore other islands in the area.

– Go parasailing, snorkeling, kite surfing, or any other water sport you may want to try.

– Go on the Boracay Pub Crawl.

– Soothe your muscles and your mind with a massage.

Best Hostel in Station 2: The A Hostel Boracay

Located in one of Boracay’s best neighborhoods, this hostel is close to the beach and to local eateries, so you’ll never lack things to do when you stay there. It’s just moments from D’Mall and offers comfortable but affordable dorm rooms and shared bathrooms.

Best Airbnb in Station 2: Budget Beachfront Room

If you’re on a tight budget, this room will suit your visit to Boracay. The room is suitable for up to 4 guests and includes the use of the shared kitchen and private bathroom. Housekeeping is provided and airport pickup and drop off can be arranged. And best of all, the apartment is close to the beach, so you can enjoy your summer holiday.

Best Hotel in Station 2: The Boracay Beach Resort

If you want to be in the middle of all the action, this hotel in Boracay is perfect. It’s just steps from nightlife and dining options and offers babysitting services, an in-house spa, and a café. The rooms are clean and modern and include all the usual amenities you’ll need during your stay.

#5 Tambisaan Beach – The Coolest Place to Stay in Boracay

If you’re a quieter kind of traveler who likes to be in nature, then this is a great choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Boracay for one night or for a longer visit. Tambissan Beach offers some of the most amazing marine life on the island, and the reefs are right off short, so you shouldn’t have any trouble getting there. The amenities in this part of the island are fairly basic, but you can also walk to the more populated areas if you want to go bar hopping and then return to your natural oasis.

Staying at Tambissan Beach means that you’ll enjoy a more authentic island experience. However, you may have a little more trouble finding the best places to stay in Boracay in this part of the island, but the search isn’t impossible and will be worth it.

Things to See and Do in Tambisaan Beach

– Tambissan is popular among the locals for its street food, so wander and see what looks popular.

– Head out beyond the coral reefs for simply incredible snorkeling or diving.

– Try some local restaurants like Fusion Sports Bar, Deo Anda Picnic House, or Aodai.

– Take advantage of the boat port to explore other islands.

– Wander up for Cagban Beach for eateries.

Best Airbnb in Tambisaan Beach: Paras Inn Vacation House

Whether you’re trying to decide where to stay in Boracay for your first time, or on a return trip, this is an awesome choice. The private villa is large enough for up to 6 guests and is surrounded by a lush tropical garden. It includes 3 bathrooms and bedrooms and is only steps away from the beach.

Best Hotel in Tambisaan Beach: Feliness Resort

With a beautiful outdoor pool, private beach, kids’ pool, and proximity to local shops and eateries, this hotel is a great choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Boracay for one night or for a longer visit. The rooms are comfortable and modern and include air conditioning and all the usual amenities.

Best Luxury Hotel in Tambisaan Beach: Under the Stars Luxury Apartment

If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Boracay with kids or with friends, this is a great luxury option. It’s right on the coast, with easy access to the beach and all its charms, and has a private beach, outdoor pool, babysitting services, and luggage storage. The apartments are self-contained with a dining area and all the usual amenities.

Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Boracay

Whether you’re trying to decide where to stay in Boracay for your first time or on a return trip, this island offers a lot more than its small size suggests. It’s a slightly unusual, but still rewarding to your beach island holiday cravings. And as long as you choose the right area, you’ll return from your trip to the island relaxed, tanned, and happy, just as you should be after a beach getaway!

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