After calling Boracay home for more than two decades and watching countless resorts rise and fall, I can tell you that Fairways and Bluewater stands out like a towering coconut palm in a field of grass. This sprawling resort sits majestically on Station 1’s coveted beachfront, but what most visitors don’t realize is that staying here feels more like living in a small village than checking into a typical beach hotel.
The Resort Layout: A Mini-City by the Sea
Fairways and Bluewater isn’t just big – it’s enormous by Boracay standards. The property stretches so far inland that some guests joke they need a GPS to find their rooms. The resort cleverly divides into distinct areas, each with its own personality:
- Beachfront Villas: The crown jewels with direct beach access
- Golf Course Rooms: Overlooking the 18-hole championship course
- Garden Suites: Tucked away in tropical landscaping
- Pool Villas: Private retreats with personal swimming areas
Here’s a local secret: the staff uses golf carts to navigate the property, and they’re usually happy to give you a ride if you wave them down. Don’t be shy – walking from the farthest villa to the beach in flip-flops under the midday sun isn’t exactly what vacation dreams are made of.
The Accommodation Experience
The rooms at Fairways and Bluewater feel like they were designed by someone who actually understands tropical living. High ceilings, marble bathrooms, and those blessed air conditioning units that could cool a small airplane hangar. The furnishings lean toward elegant Filipino-colonial style, though some pieces have seen better days – a common story in our salty, humid climate.
Room Categories Breakdown
| Room Type | Best For | Insider Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Deluxe Garden View | Budget-conscious travelers | Quieter but farther from beach |
| Premier Sea View | Couples wanting romance | Request upper floors for better views |
| Beachfront Villa | Families or luxury seekers | Book early – only a handful available |
| Golf Course Villa | Golf enthusiasts | Morning tee times get priority |
Dining: A Culinary Adventure
The resort houses several restaurants, and here’s where things get interesting. Punta Fuego offers fine dining with a view that’ll make you forget your own name, while Malay Cafe serves up local favorites that even picky locals approve of. The breakfast buffet at Punta Fuego deserves special mention – it’s where you’ll find the best longganisa on the island, prepared by a chef who learned the recipe from his grandmother in Iloilo.
Pro tip from someone who’s eaten here more times than I care to count: the seafood at Malay Cafe is caught by local fishermen each morning. Ask your server what came in fresh that day – they’ll steer you toward the best catch.
The Golf Course: More Than Just 18 Holes
Fairways and Bluewater’s golf course holds the distinction of being Boracay’s only championship golf course, designed by Graham Marsh. But here’s what the brochures don’t tell you: early morning rounds offer spectacular sunrise views, and you might spot fruit bats returning to their roosts in the ancient mango trees.
The course plays tougher than it looks. Local caddies are worth their weight in gold – they know every hidden water hazard and can read the greens like fortune tellers. Plus, they’re fantastic storytellers who’ll regale you with island folklore between holes.
Beach Access and Activities
Station 1 beach stretches right outside the resort, offering that famous Boracay white sand that feels like powdered sugar between your toes. The resort’s beachfront section remains relatively uncrowded compared to the public areas, though don’t expect complete solitude – this is Boracay, after all.
Beach Activities Available
- Paraw sailing (traditional Filipino boats)
- Island hopping tours
- Stand-up paddleboarding
- Beach volleyball
- Sunset watching from the beach bar
The Challenges: Keeping It Real
Living on this island has taught me that paradise comes with its quirks, and Fairways and Bluewater has its share. The sheer size of the property means service can sometimes feel impersonal – you’re not going to get the intimate, everyone-knows-your-name experience of smaller boutique resorts.
Maintenance issues pop up more frequently than management would like to admit. The combination of sea air, tropical storms, and constant use takes its toll on fixtures and furnishings. I’ve seen guests deal with everything from temperamental air conditioning to plumbing hiccups, though the maintenance team typically responds quickly.
The resort also attracts large groups and conventions, which can transform the peaceful tropical vibe into something resembling a busy conference center. Check the events calendar before booking if you’re seeking tranquility.
Insider Tips for Maximum Enjoyment
- Book directly with the resort: They often throw in perks like room upgrades or dining credits
- Request a room away from the events pavilion: Trust me on this one
- Use the golf cart shuttle service: It’s complimentary and saves your energy for beach activities
- Try the spa during off-peak hours: Better service and sometimes spontaneous discounts
- Ask about the manager’s cocktail hour: Free drinks and appetizers for returning guests
Who Should Stay Here
Fairways and Bluewater works best for travelers who appreciate having options without leaving the property. Families love the space and variety of activities, while golf enthusiasts obviously find their paradise. Business travelers appreciate the conference facilities and reliable internet, though they might question their life choices when surrounded by all that tropical beauty.
Solo travelers might feel a bit lost in the vastness, and couples seeking intimate romance might prefer smaller, more boutique properties elsewhere on the island.
Common Questions
Do I need to rent a vehicle to get around the property?
The resort provides complimentary golf cart shuttles, but they don’t run 24/7. Late-night trips to your room might involve a longer walk than expected. Some guests rent bikes from the concierge for easier navigation.
Can non-guests use the golf course?
Absolutely, but resort guests get priority tee times and better rates. The course opens to the public after 10 AM, though prime morning slots are usually reserved for staying guests.
How’s the internet situation for remote work?
WiFi is complimentary throughout the property, but speeds vary dramatically by location. The business center and lobby areas offer the most reliable connections. Don’t expect to stream Netflix in 4K from your garden villa.
Are there any hidden fees I should know about?
The resort is fairly transparent with pricing, but watch out for automatic service charges on dining bills and spa treatments. Golf cart rentals for extended periods cost extra, and some activities like island hopping are outsourced with separate pricing.
What’s the best time to visit for lower rates?
Local rainy season from June to October offers significant savings, though you’ll trade guaranteed sunshine for occasional afternoon showers. The shoulder months of May and November often provide the sweet spot of decent weather and reduced rates.
The Bottom Line
Staying at Fairways and Bluewater feels like temporarily joining an exclusive club where the dress code is perpetually casual and the biggest decision you’ll face is whether to have your morning coffee overlooking the golf course or the ocean. It’s not perfect – few places are – but it offers something increasingly rare in today’s world: genuine space to breathe, explore, and lose yourself in the simple pleasure of being exactly where you want to be. After all these years watching visitors come and go, I’ve noticed that guests who embrace the resort’s village-like atmosphere rather than expecting typical hotel efficiency walk away with the fondest memories and the strongest urge to return.
