Over the years, and
after many visits to Boracay’s white-sand shores, I’ve stayed in a variety of accommodations:
from beachfront luxury to modest guesthouses hidden into inner alleys. But of
all these stays, one property has become my island constant: Azalea Hotels
& Residences. On my most recent trip, I checked in here for the third time,
making it the hotel I’ve returned to more than any other on the island.
What keeps me
coming back? For starters, value meets comfort here in a way that’s
surprisingly rare in a destination as popular as Boracay. Azalea’s suites
aren’t just rooms, they’re full-mode apartments with living areas,
well-equipped kitchens, and enough space to spread out after a day in the sun.
Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a small group, the flexible
1- to 3-bedroom layout makes it feel like a true home base.
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| Inside the 2-bedroom guest room layout. Imagine, this is just the space of my room. There's still the living room and the kitchen and dining |
There’s also an
ease to staying here. The open-air lobby invites lingering with a coffee or
simply taking a breather under the island wind. The rooftop pool, while simplistic,
offers a clear view of Boracay’s famed sunset, making it an ideal spot when the
beach gets crowded. And if you’re not in the mood to venture far for food, the
in-house Kuya J Restaurant serves up hearty Filipino food that satisfies after
a day of exploring.
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| The living area, kitchen and dining |
While Boracay is
ever-changing, Azalea remains a familiar comfort, the kind of place you find
yourself booking again before your current trip even ends.
A
Well-Placed Property in the Middle of It All
Location
has long been one of Azalea’s greatest assets. Set at the center of Boracay’s
tourism corridor, the hotel allows guests to dip easily into the island’s vibe whether
by foot to the beach or to the surrounding cluster of restaurants, cafés, and
souvenir shops. Still, the building’s internal layout, with its pool deck and
rooftop perch, provides pockets of privacy that soften the island’s daily grind.
Design
That Serves Its Purpose
The
rooftop houses two modest pools: one for adults, the other child-friendly,
flanked by a simple arrangement of loungers and shaded nooks. It’s a functional
retreat more than a spectacle, though the view especially at sundown offers a cinematic
moment perfect for capping the day.
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| Some of the multi-bedroom guest rooms comes with spacious double bed thus increasing number of occupancy. Value for money indeed. |
Inside,
the design language is extra. Muted tones, straightforward finishes, and smooth
surfaces make up the common areas, with a lobby and restaurant that reflect a
utilitarian, almost residential feel. The in-house eatery, Kuya J, doubles as
the breakfast hall, offering standard local fare in a space that, while bright
and accessible, can feel roomy even during peak hours.
A
Room for Every Type of Traveler
Accommodations
range from compact Deluxe Rooms to full-size holiday apartments with up to
three bedrooms. Even in the smallest units, the layout is deliberate: two
double beds, a convertible sofa, and a kitchenette make the space work well for
families or small groups. The aesthetic leans toward the neutral linen-covered
beds, minimalist lighting, simple storage offering ease over flair.
The
larger units emphasize livability, especially for longer stays. Bedrooms branch
off from a shared living and dining area, while the kitchen comes fully
equipped with essentials: stovetop, microwave, refrigerator, and basic
cookware. It’s not luxurious, but it’s functional and for many travelers,
that’s the appeal.
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| Thumbs up Filipino food at Kuya J's |
On
my first stay, I stayed in a studio room. On the next two visits, I shared a
two-bedroom suite with a friend, giving each of us privacy while enjoying the
shared living room and kitchen, ideal for getting work done and preparing lunch
with ingredients we bought from a nearby market.
A
Good Base for Exploration
From
Azalea, most of the island is within reach. A five-minute walk takes you to the
beachfront. A few more steps put you at D’Mall. Staff can arrange boat tours or
water sports, and for those looking to explore beyond the central strip, Mount
Luho and quieter beaches like Tulubhan are a tricycle ride away. (will write a
separate blog post about our island activities curated by the staff of Azalea).
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| Kuya J Restaurant |
Azalea
isn’t designed to dazzle, but it doesn’t have to. Its success lies in how it accommodates
the needs of a wide range of guests, from large families to solo travelers.
With its emphasis on practicality, accessibility, and just enough design, the
hotel offers a grounded alternative to Boracay’s flashier accommodations. Not
quite boutique, but not purely no-frills either, Azalea occupies a thoughtful
middle ground.
