The hype
Families love the endless pools and 'safe' compound feel, but couples seeking nightlife hate the isolation and shuttle waits.
Fairways and Bluewater Boracay
$60-150/ night
Book this if You want a massive, self-contained resort world with a private beach and golf course, and don't mind taking a shuttle to reach the main White Beach action.
Why People Love It
- Six different swimming pools (including a foam party pool and an infinity pool)
- Exclusive access to the private Ilig-Iligan Beach (away from the crowds)
- CityMall is directly across the street for cheap eats and grocery runs
Quick Take: It’s less of a hotel and more of a sprawling, gated township where you trade walkability for scale and amenities.
Reviewed by @Sarahtravel: I spent the whole afternoon just chilling on this lounger. The pool is massive, so even with kids playing, it felt relaxing. Having the bar right there for a cold drink was a lifesaver in the heat. Honestly, the vibe here is just pure vacation mode.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'private beach' can be rough and windy compared to White Beach, and the older buildings smell a bit musty.
- You are a family who wants a 'one-stop-shop' vacation with pools, play areas, and safety
- You are a golfer (it has the only course on the island)
- You prefer a quiet, gated community vibe over the chaos of D'Mall
Cleanliness & Maintenance
7.8
- Housekeeping: Generally good daily service, though they can be stingy with towel replacements.
- Bathroom hygiene: Newer rooms (Monterrey) are sparkling; older rooms have reports of moldy grout and weak flush.
- Maintenance: The property is huge so maintenance is a game of whack-a-mole; expect occasional AC drips or peeling paint in older wings.
- Linens & towels: Clean but basic. Be paranoid about staining them.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells fresh; older rooms can have a lingering musty/humid smell.
Sleepability™
7MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Loud guests in hallways (thin walls)
- Shuttle engines and carts buzzing by ground floor rooms
Before you book
Good to know
- Download the resort map immediately; you will need it to navigate the 80-hectare property.
- The 'CityMall' across the street is a lifesaver for cheap water, snacks, and fast food (Mang Inasal, Jollibee/Chowking).
- Airport transfers booked through the hotel are convenient (private boat) but pricey compared to DIY.
What to pack
- Stain remover pen (to avoid the infamous towel damage fees)
- Slip-on shoes (for constantly hopping on and off shuttles)
- Waterproof phone case (for the foam parties)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Monterrey Building (Newer, central location near the main reception and gym)
- Premier Grand with Pool Access (Direct access to the pool, worth the upgrade)
- Rooms near the Ventana Pool (Best views of the ocean)
Rooms to avoid
- Older buildings like 'Lucia' if you are sensitive to musty smells or dated decor
- Rooms far from a shuttle stop (you will be stranded walking in the heat)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am requesting a room in the 'Monterrey' building or a renovated unit near the Ventana Pool. Please avoid ground-floor rooms in high-traffic shuttle areas.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the private beach swimmable?
Yes, but it's on the other side of the island (Bulabog side), so it can be wavier and windier than White Beach, especially during Habagat season.
How often does the shuttle go to D'Mall?
It runs roughly every hour from 9 AM to 10 PM. If you miss it, you'll need to pay for an e-trike (approx. 150 PHP).
Is breakfast included?
Usually yes, but check your booking. It's a massive buffet that gets very crowded; go before 8 AM to avoid the zoo.
Can I bring outside food?
Technically discouraged, but many guests buy supplies at CityMall across the street and bring them to their rooms discreetly.
Is there a resort fee?
No hidden resort fee, but there is a strict incidental deposit and the aforementioned towel stain fees.
Are the pools heated?
Most are not heated, but the Philippine sun usually keeps them warm enough. The whirlpools at Ventana are warmer.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'Ventana' pool has the best view and a swim-up bar—it's the 'party' pool. 'Laguna' is quieter.
- ✨
Walk to 'Cujo's Keyhole' (a famous rock formation) directly from the private beach; it's a great photo op without the crowds.
- ✨
Buy your booze and snacks at the Savemore in CityMall across the street to save 50% vs. the minibar.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'shuttle' is often a converted jeepney or van that packs people in tight.
💡The 'private beach' is shared with other Newcoast developments, so it's not 100% exclusive to Fairways.
💡You might get a room that requires two different shuttle rides to get to breakfast.
💡The gym is surprisingly good and often empty because everyone is at the pool.
💡WiFi can be spotty in the far corners of the resort (like the golf course edges).
Local Playbook
Map
See where Fairways and Bluewater Boracay is located and what's nearby.