Blue Marina Hotel

The room was a decent size and kept clean, with our needs taken care of. It could use a little extra attention, though, and the shower pressure was on the weak side. The bathroom itself was spacious. We had a smooth ride from Caticlan airport, where staff met us, and check-in was quick. For breakfast, we could pick from local or continental plated options and change our choice each day. Everyone we met was polite, smiling, and willing to help. We didn’t need a ride to the airport after checkout, so they took us to our next hotel instead. A very nice stay.

Blue Marina suited us better than COAST because it’s on the quieter side, away from the beach crowds and noise. We could still use COAST’s facilities, which was a nice way to relax by the pool after the beach or a meal out. The transfers and check-in were smooth and convenient, and every staff member we met was friendly and accommodating. The hotel was clean, and we really liked the free breakfast. It kept us full until after lunch. For a hassle-free vacation, you get what you pay for. I’d happily book with them again, 10/10.

The staff made the stay for us. From airport pickup to the restaurant and beach, they were attentive, smiling, and ready to help. Special props to Joni, who took our pictures and looked after us at the beachfront like VIPs. We liked the calmer feel at COAST compared with the resorts next door. Maybe it was the lean season in November, when the beach was free of algae, or maybe it’s because COAST is smaller. Either way, it felt like a vacation instead of a mosh pit, and the beachfront sunset was beautiful. The breakfast spread at Cha chas had the usual morning food, including cheeses, cold cuts, and cereal, plus rotating dishes like BEEF TAPA, bacon, adobo, dilis, danggit, an egg station, taho, and fruit. BEEF TAPA was my favorite. Our 4d3n BPI deal was about 4.4k PHP and included buffet breakfast at ChaChas plus land and boat transfers. That’s hard to beat, especially with some MNL pool resorts costing more. Blue Marina is about a 10-minute walk from the actual Coast beachfront and pool amenities, but it was no big deal since you can stroll along the white beach. The rooms were clean, cool, and comfortable. Even at the full rate of around 6k, I’d still call it great value.

The shared access to The Coast’s amenities was our favorite part. We spent mornings by the pool and on the beach lounge chairs. Ben and Ben, the beach attendants, were wonderful, with fresh towels ready when we came out of the water and ice-cold water waiting at our chairs. We’d stayed at The COAST on our previous trip, but wanted something more budget friendly this time, so we booked its sister hotel, Blue Marina. The included transfers were easy: a driver took us to the port, we crossed to Boracay on their private boat, then another driver brought us to the hotel. We didn’t touch our luggage until we unpacked in the room. It’s down a short, plain-looking alley, less than a minute’s walk from the beach. Jutic recognized us from COAST and was there with a genuinely warm smile, helping with the door and bags. He’s one of our favorite staff members and really stands out at Blue Marina. The room was quiet, clean, and comfortable, with a dreamy bed, lovely-smelling linens, down pillows, and a daybed that could fit a third guest. There was a fruit basket and a huge, delicious birthday cake for my 50th, along with complimentary COAST branded beach bags, hand sanitizer, and flip-flops. Breakfast was included as a plated meal with several choices. We both liked the beef tapas, and one morning we paid 280 Pesos to upgrade to The Coast’s beachfront buffet. The service and value were astonishing for the price. We’re recommending Blue Marina and hope to return soon.