Boracay Muslim-Dedicated Beach: A Haven for Privacy and Culture

Boracay, one of the Philippines’ most popular tourist destinations, is set to offer a unique experience for Muslim travellers. In September 2024, the island will unveil the Boracay Muslim-dedicated beach area within the Boracay Newcoast, a 150-hectare township developed by Megaworld Corporation. This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to make Boracay more inclusive and accommodating for visitors of all backgrounds, particularly Muslim women who seek privacy while enjoying the beach.

Also read: Muslim-Friendly Boracay: A New Era of Inclusive Tourism

What we know about the Boracay Muslim-dedicated beach

The concept of a Muslim-dedicated beach emerged during the Boracay Diplomatic Visit and Business Forum in April. During the forum, ambassadors from various Southeast Asian nations, including Islamic countries like Malaysia and Brunei, emphasised the need for a private beach space where Muslim women could swim and relax in alignment with their religious practices. Responding to this feedback, the local government of Malay, in collaboration with Megaworld Corporation, designated a secluded cove within Boracay Newcoast specifically for this purpose.

Harold Geronimo, Vice President for Public Relations at Megaworld, shared that while the area is open to all hotel guests and walk-in visitors, it provides a more private setting where Muslim women can enjoy the beach with greater comfort and peace of mind. The Malay-Boracay Tourism Office announced the launch on Facebook, inviting tourists to experience this new offering starting 10 Sep 2024.

This initiative is part of a broader push by the Department of Tourism (DOT) to promote Muslim-friendly tourism in the Philippines. As part of the National Tourism Development Plan for 2023-2028, the DOT has been actively encouraging the development of halal-certified accommodations and services. DOT Undersecretary for Muslim Affairs, Myra Paz Valderrosa-Abubakar, highlighted the importance of providing such facilities, noting that while some Muslims are comfortable swimming in public, others prefer more private environments. The new private cove in Boracay offers an ideal solution.

In addition to the Muslim-dedicated beach, Boracay Newcoast is home to the Savoy Hotel, one of the few hotels in the Philippines with a Halal kitchen certification. This aligns with the DOT’s efforts to make Boracay a more welcoming destination for Muslim travellers. Further enhancing the island’s appeal, Boracay’s port will soon be redesigned to include a prayer room and an ablution area, catering to the needs of Muslim tourists.

Also read: Boracay's White Beach Crowned World's Best White Sand Beach for 2024

The Boracay Muslim-dedicated beach reflects its commitment to diversity and inclusivity, ensuring that all visitors can enjoy the island’s beauty in a way that respects their cultural and religious practices.

Featured image credit: Pierrick Lemaret via Canva Pro