Backpacking in Boracay: Hostels and Bars with the Best Vibes

Summer is fast approaching, and you know what that means! Yes, fun sun filled days at the beach. Boracay is often dubbed as one of the world’s top tropical tourist destinations. It is known for its relaxed atmosphere, friendly people, affordable rates, and (yup, you guessed it) stunning white beaches.

And while we’ve all seen the pictures on social media and the advertisements on brochures, there is a whole treasure trove of hidden experiences waiting to be discovered inside Boracay Island. So, put on your backpacks and forget all those places “you’re supposed to check out.” Keep on reading and discover great hostels and bars as you blend in this beautiful place on your own terms.

Frendz Resort and Hotel is a great place to begin your adventure. Set down your bags and chill out at the communal areas, where you can also meet other backpackers. Kick your feet up and enjoy the fresh drinks at the bar, pass some time at the pool table, or climb up to the roofdeck and enjoy a great view of a tropical paradise. And once you’re ready to venture out, you’ll find that the famous Boracay Beach is just a short walk away. This hostel is a backpacker favorite inside Boracay Island and for good reason. 

Address: Near Boat Station 1 Balabag main Beach, White Beach Path, Boracay (Aklan), 2002

Nothing like a delicious meal to go along with a feast for the eyes, right? Well, that’s what you’ll be enjoying at Pelican Sky Bar & Restaurant inside Boracay Island. This great rooftop spot serves up tasty meals and ice cold drinks with a breathtaking panoramic view of Boracay Beach. Drop by around sunset and enjoy the sky transform to a wondrous pink hue as you take a sip of your Piña Colada. And if you feel like mingling, locals and visitors alike love to hang out here so you’re bound to make some new friends.

Address: Roofdeck, The Tides Hotel Boracay, D' Mall Station 2, Boracay Island Malay, Philippines

Chill Out Hostel is for the backpacker whose first and primary desire is to just — well chill. Or, at least find a spot where you can have some peace and quiet before going on the day’s jam packed tropical adventures. Along with hammocks under trees and a small pool, you’ll find a large outdoor garden area perfect for silent meditations or quiet thoughtful strolls. And since it's located at Station 3 inside Boracay Island, you’ll find that this hostel will be much quieter and laid-back than most other hostels.

Address: Zone 5A, Bulabog Rd (Next to Cool Stay Inn), Boracay, Malay, 5608

If you’ve still got some energy after a full day of backpacking inside Boracay Island, you’ll definitely enjoy this popular nightlife spot! Exit Bar will have you feeling like you’re back in the big city with all its colorful lights, electrifying sounds, and delicious drinks. Make some new friends, hop on the dance floor, ask the DJ to play your favorite Avicii song. Or, you can just take your drinks and enjoy the breezy outdoor area as you chill out by the famous Boracay Beach. Locals and visitors alike love this place for the open, easy, and vibrant party vibes. 

Address: Station 2, Balabag, Malay, 5608 Aklan, Philippines

Lazy Dog Bed & Breakfast is a great low key spot for a backpacker to chill out in between the parasailing and the island hopping inside  Boracay Island. The vibes here just hum “relax.” Hang around in one of the many hammocks, get a tan at the sundeck, or unwind with a delicious meal and drink at their on-site restaurant “Whiskey’s Cafe.” And if you’ve always wanted to bring your furry buddy to Boracay Beach, you’ll be happy to know that they are pet-friendly too! 

Address: 1 Sesame Street Bulabog Beach, Boracay, Malay, 5608 Aklan

Two Brown Boys is a bar and burger joint found a bit of a distance from the famous Boracay Beach. But trust us, going off the well beaten path to visit this spot is so worth it. With new happy hour promos every week and a constantly revolving cast of live DJs, there is always a party going on. And if you’re starving after a whole day of exploring inside Boracay Island, you’ll definitely enjoy their burgers. You’ll have more than enough energy for backpacking after enjoying their “Rocky Mountain,” a towering burger overflowing with sauces, meats, and calamaries rings.

Address: Road 1-A, Bulabog, Boracay, 5608 Aklan

There is no better feeling than waking up to a dream, right? Hostel Avenue is that dream come true for all true beach bums on a budget. Unlike many other hostels inside Boracay Island, you’ll be starting the day off right next to the world famous white sand beach. Literally, just a step out of the door. Spend your whole day by Boracay Beach doing whatever you please at this affordable 3 star hostel found at the center of action. And if you just want to unwind without sand, chill out at the alfresco lounge area as you lay back on soccer themed bean bags.

Address: 3rd and 4th floor Pats Creek Bar Barangay Balabag Boracay Station 2, Malay, 5608 Aklan

A chill restaurant and snackbar by day, and an electrifying dance club at night. Paraw Beach Club could be a place where you spend the whole day. Dance to fantastic music, drink from a refreshing selection of alcoholic drinks, and party like there is no tomorrow. And if you ever want to take a break, you’ll find their bamboo beach mats to be very comfortable. Hang out with other backpackers, visitors, and locals as you party by Boracay Beach. And if ever there was a place to party inside Boracay Island, this place is it!

Address: Station 1, Boracay Highway, Central, Malay, Aklan Province 5608 Philippines