The hype
Travelers rave about the incredibly friendly staff and the 'heart of the action' location.
Mandarin Nest Boracay
$75-150/ night
Book this if You want to be in the absolute center of the Station 2 party zone and don't mind trading a window for a lower rate.
Why People Love It
- Prime beachfront location right next to D'Mall
- Unexpected freebies like afternoon 'merienda' snacks and night-time sweets
- Rooftop pool offers a perfect sunset vantage point away from the beach crowds
Quick Take: A hyper-central crash pad that kills it on service and free snacks but struggles with claustrophobic, windowless rooms.
Reviewed by @Awaywithjess: I honestly didn't expect this level of detail! Walking into my room to find a handwritten note and treats was such a sweet touch. The rooftop pool became my go-to spot for sunsets away from the crowds, and having White Beach right downstairs made everything so easy.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The windowless rooms feel damp and small, with some guests reporting dim bathroom lighting that makes getting ready difficult.
- You prioritize being steps away from bars, D'Mall, and the beach path
- You love free food (afternoon snacks, welcome drinks, turn-down sweets)
- You plan to spend 90% of your time outside the room
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.8
- Housekeeping: Daily service is consistent and praised; staff are proactive about sand control.
- Bathroom hygiene: Generally clean grout and surfaces, but drainage issues ('water logging') in showers are a recurring complaint.
- Maintenance: Newer property (opened ~2023), so paint and fixtures are fresh, though windowless rooms feel stuffy.
- Linens & towels: Crisp and white, though beach towels can run out during peak hours.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells fresh; windowless rooms carry a risk of damp/musty odors due to lack of ventilation.
Sleepability™
6.5MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Live bands and DJ music from nearby Station 2 bars
- Foot traffic from the busy beach path right outside
Before you book
Good to know
- The hotel entrance is right on the beach path; tricycles drop you off at the main road (about a 3-5 minute walk through D'Mall alleys)
- WiFi is generally strong (25+ Mbps) and works well for remote work
- Breakfast is buffet-style at Hakuna Matata but can get crowded by 9 AM
What to pack
- Cash for the security deposit (PHP)
- Earplugs if you're in a windowed room facing the beach
Room Genie
Best picks
- Premier Seaview — the only way to guarantee natural light and a view
- Premier Family with Daybed — slightly more floor space if you're squeezing in a group
Rooms to avoid
- Deluxe Queen (No Window) — often described as small, damp, and box-like
- Any room near the elevator on lower floors (noise bleed)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am looking forward to my stay. Please assign a room on a higher floor to minimize beach path noise. If possible, I would strongly prefer a room with a window or at least not directly adjacent to the elevator.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there a pool?
Yes, a small but scenic infinity pool on the roof. It's great for sunsets but small for laps.
Do all rooms have windows?
No. A significant number of rooms are windowless. You must book a 'Seaview' or specific category to ensure a window.
Is breakfast included?
Yes, a daily buffet breakfast at Hakuna Matata restaurant is typically included in the rate.
How far is the beach?
Zero meters. You step out of the lobby directly onto the White Beach path.
Is it quiet at night?
Not really. Station 2 is the busiest part of Boracay. Expect music and crowd noise until at least midnight.
Is there an elevator?
Yes, there is an elevator, which is a rare perk for smaller hotels in this area.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'merienda' (afternoon snack) is served around 3:30 PM at the pool — don't miss the free desserts.
- ✨
There is a foot washing station at the front entrance; use it to avoid tracking sand into your room (and avoiding fines).
- ✨
If you have a late flight, the hotel will let you use the shower facilities after check-out.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'No Window' rooms can struggle with drying swimsuits; they stay damp for days.
💡The bathroom lighting in standard rooms is surprisingly dim — bad for makeup.
💡You get a 20% discount at the Hakuna Matata restaurant just for being a guest.
💡The rooftop pool has a 'happy hour' vibe that's actually cheaper than some beach bars.
💡The security deposit must be paid in cash or card, but card refunds can take weeks to process — bring cash.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Mandarin Nest Boracay is located and what's nearby.