In the 2011 Travelers’ Choice Beaches Awards byTripAdvisor, Boracay was named as the 2nd Best Beach in the world, after Providenciales in Turks and Caicos. The list was based on reviews and ratings of TripAdvisor users, which are mostly based in North America.

Note that most of the beaches that made the list have high accessibility to high-end accommodations, restaurants and bars, which reflect the preference of the TripAdvisor users.

It’s not surprising that Boracay made it but we’re still glad to know that the Philippines has made this list as the 2nd best. With this recognition there’s still the perennial issue of sustainable development of beaches in the Philippines, in which the government has to get its act together.

Beaches in the Philippines are as diverse as its people. While some are deserted island getaways and some have loud and noisy beachfronts, each beach has its own character. The list we compiled below is not confined to a specific set of criteria, such as the availability of modern amenities, accessibility, etc. Instead, by their own uniqueness.

1. White Beach, Boracay. The grand dame of the Philippine beaches and the unofficial summer capital of the Philippines.

2. Maira-ira Beach, Pagudpud. A great getaway up north complemented by Ilocano dishes.

3. Alona Beach, Panglao island. Has a status of playing second fiddle to Boracay.

4. Malapascua, Cebu. Great getaway for those seeking peace and tranquility.

5. Bantayan, Cebu. Another great beach in the premier province of the Visayas.

6. Siargao Island. A surfer’s paradise in the South.

7. Camiguin Island. Great beaches accompanied by extreme activities inland.

8. Miniloc Island, Palawan. Lime stone formations that rival those in Thailand and Vietnam.

9. Sogod Beach, Cebu. Nice beach with a well-serviced resort.

10. Potipot Island, Zambales. Easily gets crowded in the peak summer months. But a very good substitute to white sand beaches of the South without flying by plane.

On the northern part of Boracay Island, nestled into a secluded hillside inside an eco-reserve, lies the five-star Shangri-La Boracay Resort. The resort comprises 219 luxury rooms including 36 villas. They all feature ethnic Filipino décor.

The resort has been planned with several different types of guest in mind.
Families will find lots of fun things to do in the Entertainment Center and for the kids there is the specially designed Adventure Zone.

For those guests who wish to indulge in a totally relaxed vacation The Spa offers many means of pampering yourself. The Spa features a range of treatments based on Chinese and Himalayan healing techniques.

For guests that have work to do, or for business group meetings, a fully and comprehensively equipped business center is available. Private meeting rooms, computer stations and private meeting rooms are just a few of the amenities that can be provided.

There are seven food and beverage outlets catering to every taste. There is 350 meters of beautiful beachfront, a Marine Center and Dive Shop, a water sports pavilion, two swimming pools and tennis courts. There is a Health Club, game room and indoor recreation area. You will not get bored while staying at the Shangri-La Boracay Resort!

In summary, the Shangri-La Boracay Resort is a five-star hotel set in a beautiful eco-reserve and it has a range of facilities and amenities to please every kind of guest.

Photo from: zimbio.com

This resort is located at the northern part of white beach. This is a perfect place to stay if you prefer seclusion.

Telephone: 288 4000

Native hut accommodations for visitors staying in Bulabog Beach.

Telephone: 288 3161

You would think you are in Bali at Nigi Nigo Nu Noos with its Balinese inspired rooms.

Telephone: 288 3101

A low-key resort with Jacuzzis in two of its suites.

Telephone: 288 4777 or 0917 527 4777

A mediterranean-themed hotel in Boracay. The whole place is wi-fi enabled.

Telephone: 288 6209

A small boutique hotel with modern amenities. It’s location is ideal – located on the quiet side of theb each but a short walk from the bars and restaurants.

Telephone: 0927 361 0826

Located in Station 2 near D’Mall. The rooms are very comfortable.

Telephone: 2885401