I'm planning to go to Boracay on February.
Is boracay beach one of the best beaches in the world?
Is the sea water clean?
Please, anyone who have been there recently send me some opinions.
Thanks in advance.

Have not been there but did consider going there on our trip to Manila in late february next year. My research indicates its a great beach but they do not have true 5 star accomodations. If that is not a requirement then maybe its ok.

Like any other popular destination, it is a bit overhyped and very crowded during summer season. White sand is still beautiful and yes, the water is relatively clear.

You may want to choose a pricier place so it can give you some semblance of privacy. These are cleaner. Go to www.boracay.com for some listings of hotels.

The sugar fine white sand and clear water is not overhyped. It's really exceptional. For the best beach front, stay in a upscale resort called Friday's or other resort in this side of the beach. It's location is farther away from the crowd and the sand is finer in this area.

Upscale here is not the same as upscale in places like Phuket, Bangkok etc.

yes boracay is still one of the best around. i have not seen sand like this--soft powder white. there are new resorts but don't expect ritz carlton, grand hyatt types since the island is quite small compared to bali or maybe phuket. try nami villas, baling-hai - both situated in the quiter parts of the island. or you can try the old favorite (still mine too) Friday's.

I have not been myself but some friends recently did a trip and they found it pretty amazing and good value! It's deffinately 'on my list'!

How does Boracay compare with Palawan? Anyone been to both?

Boracay is one long stetch of beach (around 7km if I remember right) and the resorts and restaurants are lined up along the shore. It's quite a party place during summer and around xmas holidays. The sand is very white and powder fine.

Palawan resorts that are well known like amanpulo, el nido, club paradise, etc are all island resort. Meaning each resort is situated in their own island...only accessible by boat or helicopter. Resorts are more exclusive and more luxurious than what is available in boracay.

Both offer something different. If you like more seclusion and privacy, go to Palawan. If you are a diver, Palawan is excellent for diving. If you are into water sports, more offerings in Boracay. If you like night life and lots of resto, boracay is best.

Thanks purplefish, I get the idea now, if you have been to Thailand ( where I live ) how would you compare Boracay to say Phuket/Samui, from what I have found out it seems more like a quieter beach on Samui, what's it like price wise?

Phuket and Samui are on my list of places to go but unfortunately I haven't been there. Although from some research I've done I can confirm what BillT pointed out that in Boracay there is no true 5 star accomodation. In that sense, Phuket and Samui wins out on luxury accomodations.

I've watched the move The Beach of Leonardo di Caprio and seen some video of Samui. The topography and physical appearance of those places are more similar to Palawan than Boracay.

Boracay's the best! you can also try to go to Puerto Galera. they also have great beaches there. and if you're looking for a place to stay, you can try to check http://www.asiahotels.com/hl/Philippines.asp. you can book online and ahead of time before you got here so you can just enjoy the beach and not worry on anything.

Anyone interested in Boracay should read this:

http://www.manilatimes.net/others/sp...30120spe1.html