Boracay Island has attracted the backpacker crowd over the years. And who can blame them? It has a reputation for being absolutely gorgeous – and having been, I can vouch it certainly lives up to that.

It has pristine, white sand beaches, the clearest water ever, an abundance of thriving marine life, and some of the friendliest locals you’ll ever meet.

But what is it like if you’re not a backpacker? Is Boracay a great place for kids? You bet! Although, your list of attractions may be slightly different.

In this guide, we’ll be sharing our top things to do on Boracay Island with kids, so you can make planning your Boracay itinerary easy.

Is Boracay Worth Visiting?

Boracay has gained a reputation for being a backpacker’s playground, with Boracay pub crawls and fire dancers on the beach – a similar vibe to the full moon parties in the South of Thailand.

But this tends to only really happen around the White Beach area. The rest of Boracay is idyllic and super chilled.

White Beach is still worth a visit, but when traveling to Boracay with kids, I recommend staying elsewhere.

It definitely made our list of things to do on Boracay Island with kids, but I find the other beaches on Boracay Island are just as good, if not better.

If you’re a foodie, beware that the Philippines is not as good as Thailand (in my opinion), but the people are just as friendly, the lifestyle super chilled, the beaches some of the best in the world, it’s relatively cheap, and there are plenty of things to do in Boracay with kids.

For that reason, I do think Boracay is worth visiting.

Things to Do on Boracay with Kids

Here are some of the best things to do in Boracay Island with kids that we experienced on our short visit.

1. Visit Punta Bunga Beach

Punta Bunga Bach has pristine powdery white sand and turquoise waters and no crowds. It was our pick of Boracay Beaches and one of the most beautiful beaches I’ve seen in the world.

Punta Bunga is a private beach for guests of Movenpick Resort and Shangri-La’s Boracay Resort.

I’m not sure if you can get access otherwise, but it’s worth a try because it is one of the best things to do in Boracay.

We had a spectacular morning kayaking and stand up paddling in the crystal clear water.

2. Explore Puka Beach

We loved Puka Beach on Boracay Island. The sand may not be white, but it’s a golden color I like just as much.

Puka Beach is much quieter than White Beach and reminded me of the Thai beaches like Railey’s Bay back in 1999.

We got caught in a torrential rain storm (the tail end of the typhoon), but it soon passed and added to the fun and moody drama.

You can hire a beach chair and umbrella  – payment by way of overpriced shakes and food. They line the beach so go for a walk first to find one that suits your vibe. It’s worth doing if you intend on hanging around for the day.

I’d buy your one drink to reserve your seat and eat at the restaurant at the entrance to Puka Beach. It’s about a third of the price to what they charge for food from the chair rental shacks. Beer is way cheaper than fruit shakes, so why not make that your one drink?

Our chair rental shack came with free tubes, which Kalyra spent ages floating out on the clear waters on her own. Savannah wasn’t brave enough to do it, but she loved playing in the waves with Kalyra.

The rest of the time she hung with me on the chairs and had her photo taken by passing Filipinos who adored her blonde hair, blue-eyed look.

While Kalyra was floating, Craig and I had a cheap foot massage and watched the local boys on their skim boards riding the waves. You can rent them also. I was pretty impressed with the aerial maneuvers they were performing.

3. Go on a Snorkeling and Boracay Island hopping tour

On our last day in Boracay, the sun shone brightly, and Boracay glimmered. We joined a snorkeling and Boracay Island hopping tour on a banca boat organized by Movenpick Resort.

You can join these snorkeling tours anywhere in Boracay and is one of the best things to do in Boracay.

It was a fantastic way to spend the day. We loved visiting some of the other beaches and enjoying pretty decent snorkeling. I say pretty decently because after you’ve snorkelled the Great Barrier Reef most places from now on will be pretty decent!

4. Visit Balinghai Beach

We jumped off the boat for some snorkelling in the waters just offshore from Balinghai Beach. Balinghai is a private beach that looks like it belongs in the Greek Islands. It would be worth a visit if you can get there.

Balinghai Beach covers over at high tide, and you do have to pay a fee to enter the beach.

Savannah had a brilliant time snorkelling and couldn’t wait to jump back in the boat with the sea animal chart to point out to me what she saw. Our guide told us that close by to this snorkeling spot in the deeper waters; he has seen whale sharks before when scuba diving.

5. Marvel at Diniwid Beach

Diniwid is a quiet and pretty beach. You can walk here from Station One or catch a trike. Or, like us, visit on your Boracay Island hopping boat tour. Diniwid Beach looks very family friendly.

The highlight of most travelers to this beach is The Spider House (see below)

It’s noted everywhere as one of the best things to do in Boracay.

6. Swim at Ilig Iligan Beach

This gorgeous little beach on the north east of the island is secluded, but accessible by road via motorbike, bicycle or hiking.

I loved our journey to Ilig Iligan past Puka Beach and the bats hanging upside down in the trees on the jungled and rugged coastline on our boat tour.

The sand is white (although not as powdery as White Beach), the water is clear and turquoise, and the beach quiet. It’s a good spot for a seafood lunch and snorkeling a little further out from shore.

I found the snorkeling at Ilig Iligan Beach better than Balinghai Beach.

7. Visit Spider House for lunch or sunset

I don’t think it matters when you visit, the Spider House will exhale a few wows out of your system.

Built on the edge of the cliff on the north side of Diniwid Beach, and accessed via a small tunneled cave, its bamboo decks hang out over the water and offer stunning views back towards Diniwid Beach.

We arrived by boat on our island tour for a quick snack stop. We picked up calamansi juice and enjoyed the panoramic views out over the ocean. You can walk down the stairs from your cliff top position straight into the water and on the reef for a snorkel.

Apparently, sunsets on Boracay from the Spider House are spectacular as the sun appears as a giant orb in the sky. We missed this amazing thing to do in Boracay – don’t you make the same mistake.

Hopefully, you’ll get lucky and jag this spot for your sunset cocktail.

8. Explore the White Beach area

White Beach is consistently known as one of the best beaches in Asia for its stunning white sand and turquoise water. We didn’t get to see White Beach in its full glory as it was overcast – it still looked pretty gorgeous in the grey light.

The locals call it Long Beach, as you can also guess, it’s quite long. It’s broken up into three sections called Stations.

Station Two is by far the busiest area; Station One is at the northern end, and a little quieter with some excellent views overlooking a small island just off the beach, and Station Three is further south near the jetty port.

We didn’t visit Station Three, but Andrew had some good tips about it in this post he wrote for us on traveling to the Philippines with a tween.

9. Try Real Coffee at Real Coffee

Recommended to us as a thing to do in Boracay to try a real coffee with a calamansi muffin at the Real Coffee in Station Two, Boracay. It was a delicious combination and we loved watching them froth up the milk over the hot stove.

There are beautiful views from Real Coffee over White Beach as well, although the ocean views were obstructed by the protective typhoon walls. Damn typhoons.

10. Sip on Jony’s shakes

Another community member recommended the shakes from Jony’s Shakes at Station One. The papaya and lemon shake was delicious. But, the standout was Kalyra’s Bananatella. Very naughty for my standards, but oh so delicious.

This is a must not miss activity in Boracay with your kids!!

11. Shop at D’ Mall

When you arrive on Boracay Island, you’ll hear everyone talk about D Mall. It’s quite the centre point of White Beach and a good marker to know where things are located.

It’s the place for shopping on Boracay as well as many restaurants and cafes to eat at.

12. Enjoy Dinner at PauPatri

There are hundreds of restaurants that line White Beach – take your pic and enjoy some ocean views and scenery.

I loved the look of several of the bean bags laying on the beach and pre-kids I would have cemented a spot in them with a bucket of beers or tow. (beers are cheap on Boracay!!)

For a more local place to eat in Boracay, head down the alleyway off Station Two (you’ll have to ask someone to help you) to find PauPatri, but it’s worth it.

Dining at PauPatri Restaurant was a tip from the Italian pizza chef at the Movenpick Resort. It’s Philippine cuisine in a rainforest setting. You have to take off your shoes and walk down a long wooden bridge over a waterway to reach the main restaurant area.

Once there, little alleyways like spider web strings lead down to private wooden cabanas over the water.

The prices are maybe slightly more than what you’d pay at the restaurants on White Beach. Eating out in Boracay is not as cheap as you’d think for an Asian destination, but for us, our meal came to around $55 Australian dollars.

We ordered a lot of food too including beer, calamansi juice, and two juices for the girls.

13. Don’t Miss The White Beach sunsets

Sunsets on White Beach is an infamous experience on Boracay.

We visited in low season, and I could not believe how many tourists there were on the beach. There is also an insane amount of boats going out for a sunset tour. I’ve heard these are good to do, but, for myself, I couldn’t stand going out on one of those with all the masses like that. I’d opt for other places on Boracay for sunset instead.

Despite the crowds, I did enjoy walking along the beach at sunset amongst the atmosphere and checking out all the sand sculptures. The sunset wasn’t brilliant due to the weather, but I could see how amazing it would be.

14. Enjoy Sand sculpting on the beach

There are lots of young boys who’d be happy to sculpt your name in the sand for a price. It wasn’t until the boys were halfway through carving out Savannah’s name that I twigged with what was happening. I thought when they asked me to write her name in the sand they were curious and friendly.

Welcome to Boracay!

I was more than happy to give them a few dollars. I was most impressed with their entrepreneurial spirit, and it offered a lovely exchange for the girls with some local kids. It also gave them an insight into creation and innovation!

See more in the video:

15. Go Paraw Sailing

Paraw Sailing is a unique thing to do on Boracay Island with kids since it’s found nowhere else in Southeast Asia.

Paraw Sailing is a sailing on a sailboat made of a bamboo double outrigger paraw. These boats are traditional boats in the Philippines and are powered by sea breeze.

They’re quiet and relaxing, and a little slower than the normal speed boat.

You get to sail around the beautiful bay while your boatman mans the ship. Sit back, relax and enjoy the ride.

Just watch out for those kite surfers kite surfing!

16. Visit Philippine Mermaid Swimming Academy

Have you, or your little one, ever wanted to swim like a mermaid? Well, now you can!

The Philippine Mermaid Swimming Academy is a cosplay experience where you can dress up with mermaid tails and have your photo taken.

As well as this, you can learn to swim in your mermaid tail, including breathing techniques, from the helpful skilled instructor.

You can find this unique experience in front of the lifeguard tower by Seawind Resort on White Beach.

17. Hike Mount Luho

Mount Luho is the highest peak on Boracay as just 330 feet above sea level, so it’s not a strenuous hike to get. tothe top.

Located in Aklan, and leads up through a lush jungle with vibrant green plants on either side. At the top, you will find a viewing deck with panoramic views.

It’s also possible to rent a mountain bike or take a tricycle to the top if you don’t feel like walking.

18. Go Cliff Diving at Ariel’s Point

Cliff diving isn’t a sport we would recommend for families with young kids, but if you’re children are a little older and love adrenaline, then this might be a thrilling adventure for you.

Before you have visions of tall, craggy cliffs with a hundred-foot drop, let me ease your mind.

The cliff jumping at Ariel Point is man-made, with a wooden platform sitting just meters above the water.

There are a few platforms where you can jump into the refreshing water below. The highest is 15 meters.

There is also a bar and restaurant at Ariel’s Point so you can load up on refreshments between jumps.

19. Enjoy a Helmet Dive Experience

Want to go diving but want to do it in a unique way? Then a helmet dive experience might be one of the top things to do on Boracay for you.

This way, you can stroll along the seabed just as you do on land, which is perfect for those who aren’t a confident swimmer.

Boracay Helmet Dive starts with a speed boat ride out to the ideal dive location. From there you will be briefed and given your helmets.

After that, you can explore the ocean’s floor and see amazing corals, colourful fish and more!

20. Go Island Hopping

Don’t just stay on Boracay, head out to one of the nearby islands for a break! Some of the most popular islands to visit nearby are Crocodile Island, Crystal Cove Island and Magic Island.

Crocodile Island is a great place to go snorkelling since there is a thriving reef surrounding it. The island itself doesn’t offer much else.

Crystal Cove Island is a resort, also known as Laurel Island. It has a few walking tracks and beaches, and offers an idyllic remote escape.

Magic Island is one of the smallest islands off the shores of Boracay. It’s famous for offering cliff diving, but it’s not worth visiting just for cliff diving. You will likely venture here if you book an island hopping boat tour.

Where to Stay in Boracay: Movenpick Resort and Spa, Boracay

We have a separate review post the Movenpick Resort Boracay. It’s possibly one of the best places we’ve stayed, especially for families.

The service at the Movenpick Boracay was exceptional, there were plenty of facilities and water activities, and it’s on its own private beach – Punta Bunga, which, as mentioned, I think is more stunning than White Beach.

The girls will argue that the pool was better – it’s the largest we’ve ever seen.

There are amazing things for kids to do at the Movenpick Resort including free hair braiding, art and face painting around the pool. The staff became new friends and helped to keep our kids entertained.

Mocktail lessons and free chocolate hour every day. You might want to tell them about that one on your last day there else they’ll never let you leave this Boracay resort.

By the grand opening in December, they will also have a hip and happening beach bar with live music.

If you’re looking for a Boracay resort for families, you can’t go wrong with Movenpick Resort.

Getting To and Around Boracay

On Boracay Island, you can walk or rent a mountain bike or motorbike. Motorized tricycle taxis are also available. Be sure to negotiate a price before setting off.

A shared trip from Station 3 to D’Mall at Station 2 should be 10-15PHP. A special trip is a private journey and will cost more than sharing with other trikers.

The Movenpick Resort had a free shuttle running to and from White Beach, so we did not catch a trike. Our Italian chef told us to expect to pay around 100 – 130 pesos if we wanted to trike it.

The easiest way to Boracay is via plane. We flew to Boracay on Cebu Pacific Air.

You can fly to Caticlan Airport or Kalibo Airport. Caticlan is closest to Boracay by a 15 minute boat. Kalibo is two hours away.

Tips For Visiting Boracay

Before you go to Boracay, here are just a few words of advice about visiting this idyllic island…

• Plan to visit in the shoulder season. The best time to travel to Boracay is outside of June – October, which is the typhoon months, and it’s best to avoid the busy Christmas, New Year’s, and Easter periods. November to April is the busiest months. You may find some sweet deals if you visit in May, since it’s just after peak season and before the rainy season.
• Bring a travel adapter. The electrical output is the same as in the US. If you have several tech devices that need charging, take a few US-style travel adapters.
• Visit ATMs early in the day and take out as much as possible. They run out of money quickly and are stocked up only a couple of times a week. Backpackers frequently get caught out by this and find they have no money for the weekend! As of January 2023, $1 AUD = 38.28 Philippine Peso
• Be prepared for brownouts. Power cuts are super common in the Philippines, so if you’re planning on catching up on some work, or if you have conference calls booked, then be prepared to get cut off from time to time. If in doubt, get an eSIM card and connect to your hot spot.
• Don’t forget your Travel Insurance! We recommend World2Cover for Australian families as kids travel free.
• Don’t forget to get a VPN when traveling and using unsecured WiFi. This also means you can catch up on your favourite shows back home on Netflix.

Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Boracay with Kids

So there you have it, those are the best things to do in Boracay with kids, and as you can see, there are a lot of adventures to be had.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation with the family or you want to step up the adventure with some water sports, you’ll find plenty of attractions to keep the whole family busy.

We hope this guide helped you plan your Boracay Philippines itinerary and gave you some ideas for what to expect at Boracay!

Video of Things to Do in Boracay with Kids

You can see more of our Boracay Beaches and Snorkelling tour by pressing play on the video:

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The love for nature and keeping the country beautiful is one of the things I love about The Philippines.

Everything about Filipino culture is about respect. Respect for their family, humankind, and the environment. Needless to say, if you want an island paradise to kick back and relax whilst receiving world-class service where you are waited on hand and foot, Boracay is the place to go.

When looking for family-friendly resorts that offer that Filipino welcome, you won’t need to look much further than The Movenpick Resort on Boracay Island.

We had the most fantastic, albeit short, stay at this family resort on the beautiful Boracay Island. In this Movenpick Boracay review, we reveal what we got up to, and what makes the resort so special.

Where is Movenpick Resort and Spa, Boracay?

Movenpick Resort and Spa Boracay is located on its private beach, Punta Bunga Cove.

As well as having access to the private beach, the resort also features modern rooms with a balcony that provide incredible views of the ocean or have garden views.

To get there from the airport, you must drive for 30 minutes from Caticlan Airport to the Caticlan Jetty Pier, followed by a short boat ride to Boracay. From there, it’s another short drive to the resort.

The resort also offers a free two-way shuttle service to D’ Mall Boracay, where all the restaurants and bars are.

The resort is just a 15-minute walk to Balinghai Beach and Diniwid Beach.

Accommodation at Movenpick Resort and Spa, Boracay

There are a variety of different room types at the Movenpick Resort and Spa, including Superior Rooms, Deluxe Rooms, Junior Suites, and the luxurious Sol Marina Beach Suites and a Royal Beach and Pool Villa.

Families can also get adjoining rooms plus extra beds, infant beds, and cribs for small children upon request.

Whichever room you have, you can guarantee an exquisite view and luxury amenities.

Each room is modern, spacious, clean, and beautifully decorated. We loved the super-sized bathroom and the ocean views from our balcony the most!

Of course, each room also comes with the usual safety features you might expect such as fire extinguisher, first aid kit, smoke detector and a security system.

Reasons to Stay at Movenpick Resort and Spa

If you’re on the fence about staying at Movenpick Resort and Spa, here are some of the reasons why we loved it so much.

1. It has a private beach

Punta Bunga beach had the wow factor for me. I fell in love with it and thought it was the best beach in Boracay.

With its crystal-clear waters and soft white sand, Punta Bunga is unspoiled and idyllic.

When the sun came out, we headed straight to the beach to lap it up.

Kalyra jumped on the stand-up paddle board, and I grabbed the kayak for a solo paddle to explore some of the beaches south of Punta Bunga heading towards Diniwid Beach.

There is a set allocated time each day when the snorkelling gear is free. The paddle boards and kayaks are available for rent.

There are also beach chairs and umbrellas that won’t cost you expensive shakes to use each day like our one at Puka Beach did.

As it’s a private beach, you won’t be dealing with maddening crowds either. One of the best reasons for staying at this incredible Boracay resort.

2. It’s away from White Beach, Boracay Island

White Beach felt crowded to us, and we visited in low season. Due to the overcast weather on our trip, we didn’t see it in its white shining glory. It looks stunning in other pictures I’ve seen.

However, it was just too busy for me. It would have been perfect when I was a solo traveller, and I would have been amongst the bean bags lying on the beach floor with buckets of beers beside me for sure!! It’s not what I’m after now.

There are lots of choices in Station 2 on White Beach for food, and a sunset stroll along the beach is worth the experience. I recommend families visit here, but I love that the Movenpick Resort gave us the chance to escape the madness.

3. There’s a Free shuttle to White Beach

If you want to go into White Beach, the Movenpick makes it easier with free shuttles all day. The run every hour until 5 pm when they run every half an hour. It’s a short 20-minute drive into White Beach, and you get to gaze out the window at village life as you go by.

Savannah had a hard time understanding that the goats and chickens she saw running around were not on a farm but lived in the village.

4. The Movenpick Resort has modern facilities

When we visited The Movenpick, Boracay wasn’t even officially opened yet!!

Previously, one of the buildings was part of the Sol Marina Resort, but Movenpick Resort and Spa has taken over management to reconstruct the luxurious resort and add facilities and rooms.

It meant the resort was super quiet for us with only a few guests visiting during their soft launch phase. It also meant there was a bit of construction work going on around us, but absolutely nothing that disturbed our peace.

In fact, the noise-free guestrooms means you get very little noise disturbance when you sleep.

Of course, all that is done and dusted now, and what’s left is a beautiful resort with modern fixtures and finishes.

5. Movenpick, Boracay has the biggest resort pool ever

It was very challenging to pull the kids out of the outdoor pool each day. We wanted to explore the other beaches on Boracay, but they wanted to swim from one level of the pool to the spa and back again.

At 3,300 sqm, the multi-level pool boasts its title as the biggest resort pool on Boracay Island. It was the biggest resort pool I’d ever seen.

The kids will love staying at this Boracay Island resort for the pool alone.

For smaller kids, there’s also a small children’s pool for them to play in.

Guests can have pool access from 7am – 9pm.

You have views out to the ocean, a swim-up, poolside bar, plenty of sun loungers  – I especially loved lounging in the pool – and lifeguards!!

6. There’s a Kids Club at the Movenpick Resort, Boracay

Mums – how luxurious does laying down on a poolside chair reading a book sound? You can do it at the Movenpick Resort and Spa.

The kids will have a ball swimming in the pool, the lifeguards will take care of their safety, and then when they’re waterlogged, they can sit in the poolside cabana for kids.

The staff will teach them art lessons, chat with them and crack jokes, and even braid their hair.

I was tempted to ask if they’d braid mine too. Our girls adored hanging in the kid’s area and the attention they received.

The Kids Club is called Pirates Cove and has a pirate theme, which kids love!

7. Attentive and friendly staff

They say the sweetest word anyone can ever hear is their name. I was amazed at how the staff remembered each of our names, even if they only briefly met us by the pool.

The front desk staff greet you with a smile and the great service continues for the rest of your stay.

The next day when they saw us, they’d be saying, “Hello Savannah, Hello Kalyra!”

I was super impressed.

As soon as you arrived at the pool, they’d greet you with a smile, and set up a chair for you with towels and a beach umbrella.

They would even bring out fruit snacks around the pool and engage in conversation with you. The service was equally outstanding in all the restaurants.

You felt like part of the Movenpick Boracay family. They sure do make you want to go back.

Outstanding service is another reason you’ll want to stay at the Movenpick Resort Boracay.

8. Free chocolate hour

I’m not a chocolate fan, so this feature of the Movenpick Boracay was not so exciting for me. But if you love chocolate then Movenpick will send you to heaven!

Take yourself up to the cafe every afternoon at 4 pm and fill up your plate with as many chocolates as you can fit in.

I did try the chocolate mousse which was divine and the perfect amount of chocolate for me.

Oh, and I did like the chili chocolate!! Savannah, not so much.

9. Airport Shuttle Service from Caticlan

Nothing pleases me more than to be picked up from an airport and transferred privately to our hotel. Nothing.

Especially now we travel with kids and persist in carrying too much luggage!!

We were going straight to South Australia from Boracay so, unfortunately, had to bring all our winter gear.

A boat took us to Boracay and then a shuttle to our resort.

10. Free Wifi Throughout

Ok, so this is the 21st century and we live in a world that is always connected. Part of visiting a tropical island is to disconnect from all that and unwind, so WiFi should not be a priority.

However, if you’re someone who can’t go ten minutes without uploading your Instagram stories, then you’ll be pleased to know there is free WiFi in all public areas, and rooms, at the resort.

Movenpick Resort Restaurants

The best thing about staying at the Movenpick Resort and Spa is you are never short of dining options. They have several cafes, bars and restaurants to choose from, each offering something different and unique.

We opted to eat at the restaurants for a couple of nights when the girls were tired and didn’t want to go to White Beach for dinner.

To be honest, I didn’t either.

I was so happy just to stay in one place and relax. It’s so rare we get to experience a family holiday like this in a gorgeous resort where we are not always moving and doing a lot of stuff!

The Movenpick has a wide variety of choices for places to eat. The Market is the all-day dining restaurant and the place for the buffet breakfast.

Ssäm serves Korean BBQ. It was our first experience trying this, and we loved it.

The La Riviera is the place for good Italian, especially their wood-fired pizzas.

The Café is the resort’s coffee shop and has coffee and pastries.

Then there is the pool bar, a fun pub for your sports and entertainment.

For couples looking for a romantic setting, the Sol Marina Beach Club is a beach bar and restaurant that sits right on the beach.

Activities at Movenpick Resort and Spa, Boracay

The Movenpick has plenty of tours and activities as optional extras for additional charges.

Two of the activities that we loved were the pizza-making classes and the cocktail and mocktail classes, which are available on special requests.

Savannah is the world’s fussiest eater, but she adores cooking.

If you follow our Instagram stories, you’d see Savannah and I cooking together a lot (@ytravelblog, @carolinemakepeace).

BUT, she often never eats what we cook. She loved cooking pizzas with Francesco, the Italian Chef at the La Riviera restaurant in the Movenpick.

He taught us how to cook a traditional Italian pizza in a wood-fired oven. Savannah nailed it AND ate her pizza after. It’s the first time she’s ever eaten pizza. We were celebrating.

The girls also had a blast learning how to make Shirley Temples and a Thirst Aid.

I quite enjoyed tasting the Tequila Sunrise and the margarita that the award-winning cocktail maker and sommelier made for us. And by award-winning, I mean like Tom Cruise in Cocktail throwing the bottles around!

Sagay Spa

If you’re not travelling with the family, or if the kids are having fun at Pirate Cove, then you might want to hit up the luxurious Sagay Spa.

Sagay are seashells that have been crushed by waves into powdery white sand. In Filipino culture, they are considered a natural protector and nurturers.

The Sagay Spa aims to offer just the same. It’s more than just a place offering spa treatments, but a sanctuary where you can partake in holistic therapies based on Filipino traditions.

Slow down, unwind, destress, and let the serenity of the spa be your muse. You will find eight treatment rooms, massage services including Swedish massages and facials, and a 24-hour health club.

You can also get in-room room service massages too.

Check-in, Check-Out Experience

Checking in was a breeze. Since we opted for a one-way airport shuttle, we had someone waiting for us at the airport when we arrived.

If you want to arrange a pick-up from the airport, you must contact the resort 72 hours before arriving and pay a surcharge.

Of course, guests can make their own way there and check in at the reception. Guests need to simply show up with their booking confirmation and the credit card or debit card they booked with.

Guests should note that the minimum age to check-in is 21, so you may not be able to make reservations if you are under this age. Guests must also have a printed copy of their hotel booking reservation to enter the island.

You may be asked to make a cash deposit for incidental charges.

Checking out is also simple. The check-out time is 12pm, and housekeeping will come knocking on your door if you are late haha!

FAQs About Mövenpick Resort & Spa Boracay

Here’s what people usually ask us about staying at Movenpick Resort and Spa Boracay.

Final Thoughts on Movenpick Resort & Spa Boracay

So there you have it, those are our thoughts on our stay at Movenpick Resort and Spa Boracay, and as you can see, we had a great time during our visit.

The Movenpick is a luxurious, 5* resort and caters to families and older couples, so you won’t find any of Borocay’s wild backpackers and young crowds here.

Whether you’re looking to just sit back on a private beach or you’re looking for a resort with an incredible outdoor pool, you’ll find all that and more at Movenpick.

Watch Our Video from Boracay:

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Of the countries that make up Southeast Asia, the Philippines is arguably the least traveled.

For many families, it doesn’t even seem to be on their radar.

Take us for instance, we are a Filipino-American family who have done their share of travel but have never visited the Philippines.

So when the time came for us to set up our itinerary for our around the world travel, we consciously chose to travel to the Philippines and use that as our home-base during the Southeast Asia segment of our Journey.

This was of great importance to us, as my wife, Brenda and I wanted to reconnect with our culture and introduce our 11-year-old, daughter, Bailey, to her heritage.

More importantly, we wanted to experience the country for ourselves and see if it’s recommendable for other traveling families.

Now that we have been here for two months, I can honestly say that it was a great decision to travel to the Philippines for our family vacation.

Once we arrived in the Philippines, we found no shortage of things to see and do.

I am aware that most people don’t have the two months, as we do to explore. So, I’ve segmented some of our favorite places and things to do into categories.

Things to do in Manila

Makati City, Metro Manila

Metro Manila can be gritty. Though I find charm within the grittiness, my tween daughter does not.

Luckily, Manila also has many beautiful pockets of neighborhoods that are quite well kept, and one of these pockets is Makati.

This neighborhood is one of the few neighborhoods in Metro Manila that have real sidewalks where one can actually take a stroll without risking being hit by a trike or a jeepney.

Greenbelt

In Makati, you’ll find Greenbelt, which is a series of malls forming its own mini-city, if you will. There you’ll find some great eateries and places to have a coffee or a drink.

Yes, there is shopping there but most come here for the lively atmosphere, and it’s also a great place to take a respite from the hot afternoon sun.

Ayala Museum

If it’s an educational and cultural day you’re looking for, attached to the mall is the Ayala Museum, which is an amazing heritage museum. If you crave more knowledge about the Philippines, this stop, is a must.

Peninsula Manila

Makati also boasts some of the most prestigious hotels, one of them being, The Peninsula Manila.

If you can swing it, there is no better place to stay in Manila. At the equivalent of 20% of the cost of its counterpart in New York, we decided to splurge for a few nights and had the best stay imaginable.

Bailey so loved it, that she considers it her favorite site in Manila. Which is fair to say, as it is considered a landmark by most people in Manila, who affectionately call it the Pen.

One doesn’t need to check into the hotel to enjoy its grandeur. Go there and grab a table in the front lobby and enjoy dessert with the family. It’s best on Sunday afternoons when many families tend to go.

I suggest ordering a Filipino classic called, Halo-Halo, which is made up of local fruit with shaved ice, topped with flan and usually Ube Ice Cream (Purple Taro). The one served at the Pen is considered the best in the city.

Tips:

• If you are only spending a few days in Manila, try to stay in this neighborhood. It’s safe and there are plenty of options for food. Moreover, the infrastructure in Manila isn’t pedestrian friendly, but here you can walk just about anywhere.
• Also, if you’re looking for a ride to get to other parts of the city, make sure to download the Uber App, It’s simply the best and most economical way of traveling around and they are plentiful in this area and the wait, never too long. It’s often less expensive than a taxi.

The Food Markets in Manila, Metro Manila

Manila is once again poised to become a truly international destination, and the food scene plays a large part.

There are plenty of restaurants worth trying, but as a family, there are no better venues for eating than that of the markets. The one’s that have stood out for us are the Mercato Salcedo and the Mercato at the Fort.

Mercato Salcedo

Mercato Salcedo takes place every Saturday from 9 am – 2 pm in Salcedo Park, in the Bel-Aire neighborhood.

This market is in the gourmet category, where you can find organic and locally sourced product.

Yes, you can get your fruit and vegetables here, but we go there for the food stalls. And there are plenty. What’s wonderful about the food stalls at this market, is that they are diverse.

You will find your ubiquitous Filipino Barbecue along with regional specialties from outside provinces. There are, of course, cuisines from neighboring countries such as Thailand and Vietnam as well.

But what makes this place special for travelers like us, that long for the taste of home every so often, is that the market offers Western staples such as pasta, hamburgers, tacos, steaks and hot dogs.

Bailey and I love lamb, and in this market the range goes even further into Middle-East and Northern African cookery.

We love to finish our market day off with sorbetes (ice cream) which are doled out of the most ornate looking mini ice cream carts. Our favorite flavor is queso, yes cheese. Not some mild ricotta or cream cheese, I’m talking cheddar.

I know that all the Michelin Star Chefs are dabbling in this now, but it’s been a flavor option in the Philippines since as far back as Brenda and I can remember.

Mercato at the Fort (Bonifacio)

Our other favorite market is the “Mercato at the Fort (Bonifacio)”. This takes place every Friday and Saturday night, starting at 6 pm and ends very late.

Not unlike the Salcedo Market in quality and in range, Mercato at the Fort, with its high energy is a travelers dream.

Our favorite stall is one that serves fried talangka (crablets). If you like crab, you’ll love this. They’re tiny, and when fried (whole), it’s literally like eating chips made out of crab.

There is no better way to spend time with friends and family than grabbing a bunch of food and drinks and eating and laughing your way through the night.

Tip: Get there early.

The Boracay Coast

White Beach, Boracay

Boracay Island is famous for it’s “White Beach” which lies on the beautiful Sulu Sea.

This beach is broken down into what is called, Stations (Stations 1, 2 and 3). It gets a bit crowded, but the sand is pristine and the sea a marvelous clear blue.

Running alongside the beach is its promenade, where you’ll find fruit vendors, massage therapists, hair braiders and, of course, restaurants and bars.

The energy is contagious, with music pouring out from everywhere and different languages spoken all around.

It’s a perfect place to take a tween starving for some fun.

It’s here that Bailey learned how to surf, it’s also here that she got her hair braided into cornrows, it’s here that we would watch people playing beach soccer and volleyball, it’s here that Bailey was cheered on by spectators while scaling a climbing wall, and it’s here that we witnessed the most beautiful sunset we had ever seen.

Getting to Boracay Tip:

There are two airports in Boracay, Kalibo, and Caticlan. Try to secure a flight going to Caticlan, it’s a much shorter ride to the dock where the boats depart for the actual island.

There are expediters at the airport upon arrival who charge 600 PHP per person (about $12 USD) that bring you from the airport to the door of your destination. If it’s your first time on the island, it’s well worth the price.

Angol Beach, Boracay

Bailey is being homeschooled, and part of her curriculum is to read some of the classics.

During her school year, with me being the teacher, I will be introducing her to some of my favorite novels I read as a kid. Two of them being, “Robinson Crusoe” and “Treasure Island”.

Growing up in the asphalt jungle that is New York City, it was hard for me to picture the setting in both books. This will not be the case for Bailey.

Past Station 3 is Angol Beach, a more quaint extension of the White Beach. It’s a beach less traveled and the atmosphere much more serene than the Stations.

There were many mornings there that I felt like a guy in a beer commercial having the beach to himself. Due to fewer crowds, the fish are a little more plentiful around these parts for those who like to do a bit of snorkeling.

Families in the know, like to settle in at this area, as it gives the kids more room to play in the sand and makes it easier to keep track of them as they swim out.

Our absolute favorite spot to plant ourselves for the day is in front of a place named, The Red Pirates. This little bar is run by the nicest and coolest band of pirates, who put out lounge chairs, tables and seats for their customers, right on the beach.

They don’t care if you purchase a drink, they just love having people around.

The pirates also own two sailboats that take people out to sea on little excursions.

Brenda, Bailey and I joined them on a couple of sails, once to see the sunset via sea view and another time, joined them for a picnic to another island, where they took us to an area with a freshwater river in which we swam and prepared the most incredible, rustic, lunch made from the fruit, fish, livestock and vegetables of the land.

If you want to play Robinson Crusoe for a morning, Angol Beach is your place. If it’s Treasure Island you seek, Angol Beach is your place. If it’s good people you seek, Angol is your place. If you are a family looking for a perfect beach experience, Angol Beach is your place.

Tip: Angol Beach is a great place to watch the sunset as tourist groups aren’t herded through these parts.

All cold beverages are available at the Red Pirates. For food, there is a small fish-fry vendor that sets up right alongside the Red Pirates where people love to go and get some fried goodies such as fried plantain, tempura shrimp, battered fish balls, fried cheese. It’s a great local experience for any traveler to have.

Travel to the Philippines

Most international flights will bring you to the Gateway, Manila. It is most likely here, that a connecting flight is made to the many beautiful provinces and islands that make up the Philippines.

From New York, it’s was quite the distance, so choosing a good airline was of great importance to us. We chose Cathay Pacific. The seats were comfortable (for the record, we flew coach), the pillows and blankets soft, and the service excellent.

There was plenty of space in the aisles to stretch out, and most importantly, Bailey had a multiple of movies, television shows, and music stations to choose from during the flight.

Cathay also serves unlimited Cup Noodles throughout, which my daughter happens to have an affinity for.

At one point during the flight, I looked over to where she was seated, finding her in bliss, as she was wrapped in her blanket, eating a cup of ramen, and laughing at the movie she was viewing. This was a good start. Tweens are not easy to please. Cathay delivered.

Tip:

As opposed to flying to Manila direct, consider a long layover in Hong Kong. It makes for a slightly shorter flight and eases the acclimation process.

Hong Kong is a true International City, there is nothing that can’t be found or done in Hong Kong. So coming from the States, it served as a soft introduction to Asian culture that was pleasing to Bailey.

From Hong Kong, we flew into Manila, which was only an hour and a half long flight. Philippine Airlines was our carrier of choice.

There is plenty more to come, so please join us again next time as we share more of our experiences and recommendations in the Philippines.

Since our last post here on yTravel, our itinerary has changed a bit because there were so many offers from generous families for us to stay with them and spend more time here in Manila while we work, start homeschooling and plan our travels.

On October 1, we set off to Malaysia and then Thailand, so stay tuned.

Read More: Things to do in Boracay Island with kids

Plan Your Trip to the Philippines

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What are your best tips for travelling to the Philippines with a tween? Share in the comments.

Just to get it out there, Manila isn’t the Philippines.

It’s where the main international airport is but I hope you don’t judge the country by its entrance (there are stories that they are spending billions to fix the international airport too, but I’ll wait until I see it).

After living in Sydney for eight years now, there are things that surprise me when I go back to visit family. Here are some realistic and practical tips when travelling to the Philippines – probably a guide that the tourism centre wouldn’t approve of.

Safe travel guides to the Philippines

• Have a trustworthy guide as much as possible. It helps if you know someone there because they know people who know people. Safe people. Maybe ask your hotel for a tour guide. But if you go on your own, ask the right people for information – hotel concierge, airport officials, information centres.

• Travel South. Get out of Manila to see what the country has to offer. There are popular tourist spots like Boracay, but personally, it’s too saturated with foreigners/tourists to be really culturally authentic. I suggest beautiful but quieter ones like Bohol, Camiguin, Palawan, Siquijor, Tagaytay, Baguio, or Vigan.

• Don’t travel too much South. Yes, kidnappings happen there. Yes, people will try to get as much money out of you. It’s a poor country, you knew that already. So don’t go where the trouble is – like where the rebels are, where most kidnappings happen, or where bombings mostly occur. Stick to the tourist-safe zones. Having said that, there are guides for journalists who want to see those “exciting” areas.

• Ask your hotel. If travelling in one area for a longer period, you can ask your hotel if they can recommend someone you can hire as a driver to take you around. If you ask, you can also find an assistant or a nanny to take with you for an agreed price. If you just want to use a cab, ask for the meter to be turned on instead of a flat rate because they might rip you off.

• IDs and uniforms. It is wise to check IDs and uniforms for services like porters, cab drivers, tour guides and so on. It’s much safer to get their details, or know their details. We usually hire a regular driver, assistant, nanny etc beforehand and agree on a specific payment during the duration of the stay — less headache with the travel arrangements.

• Have cash. The thing with secluded nature spots is that sometimes, there are no ATMs or credit card machines. It’s good to carry around cash, just don’t put it all in one spot, because yes, there are snatchers too. When travelling, don’t wave around your expensive cameras, phones and other gadgets. They’re easy targets for snatchers.

• Protect your tummy and health. Use bottled water for obvious reasons. Bring medicine around – panadol, diarrhea tablets, rash cream and so on. Insect repellent will also come in handy. It is humid, carry around a small towel because you will be sweating constantly.

Lastly, have fun. Although there are unscrupulous people around, generally Filipinos have a happy disposition and welcoming nature, and a hell of competitive streak in karaoke – just saying, you should be prepared.

 Bio: Kristyn is the blogger behind MummyK. She is a journalist, photographer, and first time children’s book author. She is enjoying life with her IT consultant/musician husband and three year-old toddler in Sydney. She tweets as @mummyk.