Unlike the majority of hotels packed side-by-side on this famous island’s 3-mile stretch of white-sand beach, Shangri-La carved out its own little tranquil retreat. Set on a hillside away from the crowds, this 219-room hotel is in an enclave with its own private beach. Opened in early 2009, the hotel incorporates indigenous materials in its contemporary design. Rooms are decorated with abaca-weave rugs and lamps made of capiz shells. Every room has a balcony with a view of either the resort’s lush tropical gardens or Boracay’s turquoise sea. CHI, The Spa at Shangri-La, is a spa village set within the resort, and it features treatments based on Chinese and native Philippine healing concepts. Other leisure amenities include one of the country’s largest free-form swimming pools, outdoor tennis courts, and a fitness center. Dining choices include a cliff-top seafood grill and an intimate Italian restaurant set amidst treetops. The hotel is a 45-minute flight from Manila, plus a 15-minute boat ride from the ferry station beside the Caticlan Airport.

Why We Love This Hotel

Beach: Quiet and clean private beach with clear warm water and soft sand.

Hospitality: Highly trained and welcoming staff.

Food: 7 restaurants and bars serving Mediterranean, Japanese, western and Filipino cuisine alongside great cocktails and wines.