Travelers’ Must-See! Where to Go for Souvenirs in Boracay Island
Boracay Island, the Philippine paradise renowned for its pristine white beaches and vibrant nightlife. One of the greatest joys of any trip is undoubtedly ‘souvenir hunting,’ isn’t it?
As a resort destination, Boracay Island boasts numerous shops, primarily centered around the enormous open-air mall, ‘D’mall,’ in the heart of the island. However, when you’re ready to shop, it’s easy to wonder, ‘Where should I buy what?’ or ‘Where can I find affordable and delicious snacks for distributing to many people?’
This article provides an in-depth look into the ‘real shopping scene unique to Boracay Island’ that every traveler, from short-term visitors to long-term residents, wants to know. We’ve meticulously selected and introduce 5 must-visit souvenir spots, covering everything from exquisite coconut jams only available locally to savvy shopping tips at local supermarkets!
SOUVENEA Boracay Souvenir Shop
📍 Address: Boracay Island, 36 D Mall phase 4, Balabag, Malay, 5608 Aklan, Philippines
Located within D’mall, ‘SOUVENEA Boracay’ is the first shop we’d recommend for anyone looking for unique Boracay goods and trinkets. While the store isn’t vast, it’s well-organized and easy to navigate, allowing you to enjoy efficient shopping even with limited time.
The main appeal of this shop is undoubtedly the high quality of its items and its reasonable pricing. Beyond classic keychains and magnets, you’ll find a delightful array of tasteful products, including seashell-themed candles that evoke the ocean, and tropical fabrics and T-shirts. The aromatic candles and soaps adorned with seashells, in particular, make perfect gifts for women, as they instantly transform any room into a resort-like ambiance just by being displayed.
Another pleasing aspect for travelers is the ongoing generous promotions, such as ‘Buy 10, Get 1 Free (10+1)’. This is ideal for buying popular banana chips and fruit-flavored snacks in bulk to distribute as ‘baramaki’ (shareable) souvenirs to friends and colleagues. Discounts may also be available through local tour companies (e.g., Salamat Boracay), so tour participants should definitely inquire.
Greencoco
📍 Address: 1F, Aklan Brgy. Balabag, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan, Philippines
Currently making waves among travelers visiting Boracay Island is the exquisite coconut jam known as ‘Devil’s Jam’. To get your hands on this famous jam and premium coconut chips, head to ‘Greencoco’. It’s conveniently located opposite D’mall and Budget Mart, near a small lake, making access excellent.
The store offers a rich selection of high-quality coconut products with sophisticated packaging designs, which you might not find in typical local markets. The most delightful aspect is the ‘extensive tasting corner’. You can sample intriguing jams, sweets, and jellies before buying, effectively preventing that common traveler’s regret of, ‘I bought it as a souvenir, but the taste wasn’t great…’.
Furthermore, this shop deeply understands travelers’ needs, offering flexibility by accepting USD payments, some e-wallets (such as Alipay, KakaoPay), and even bank transfers, should you run short on Philippine Pesos. This makes it a reliable spot to confidently pick up last-minute souvenirs, even when you’ve used up your remaining pesos before heading home.
Budget Mart
📍 Address: XW7G+7GW, Boracay Highway, Central, Malay, Aklan, Philippines
Standing prominently at the entrance of D’mall in the heart of Boracay Island, ‘Budget Mart’ is more than just a supermarket; it’s a landmark for Boracay travelers. It’s constantly bustling with people, serving as a popular meeting point for tours and friends. Step inside, and you’ll immediately feel the local energy and atmosphere.
When hunting for souvenirs here, you should target Philippine national snacks and local ingredients. Especially popular are the spicy-sour snacks from the ‘OISHI’ brand and ‘Sinigang mix,’ an essential for the sour Filipino soup, both available at local supermarket prices and highly sought after as souvenirs for friends who love cooking. Naturally, an extensive selection of beers, including ‘San Miguel Light’ – indispensable for a tropical resort evening – is also available, with over five varieties to choose from.
However, there’s an important local rule to be aware of when shopping: Boracay Island has strict plastic regulations for environmental protection, so free plastic bags are not provided. When shopping, you’ll need to bring your own reusable bag or purchase an eco-bag at the counter for about 12 pesos. This original eco-bag itself can be a cute souvenir, so buying one is also a good option.
AT IZ Boracay Co. (GIFT MARKET)
📍 Address: Unit 2, Dmall Market, Boracay Island, Malay, 5608 Aklan, Philippines
When it comes to classic Philippine souvenirs, dried mangoes and banana chips are kings. If you want to stock up on them at the lowest possible prices, ‘AT IZ Boracay Co.’ within D’mall Market will be your best ally. Its prime location, right next to the popular ice cream shop ‘Coco Mama’ and a money exchange, makes it easy to drop by during your sightseeing.
This shop is so specialized in dried goods souvenirs that it’s also known as the ‘House of Dried Products’. While dried mangoes and banana chips can surprisingly be pricier at large supermarkets, here, new products are constantly piled high at affordable prices, earning high praise from price-conscious travelers who exclaim, ‘It’s cheaper than the supermarket!’
Many products come in proper packaging, and the friendly staff serve with smiles, making even bulk purchases a pleasant experience. If you find yourself panicking the day before your departure, thinking, ‘I don’t have enough snacks to share at work!’, don’t hesitate to rush here.
CityMall Boracay
📍 Address: XWHC+J6X, Boracay Tambisaan Jetty Port Rd, Malay, Aklan, Philippines
For those staying in the northern area of Boracay Island (at resorts like Alta Vista or The Lind), ‘CityMall Boracay’ is an oasis where you can complete your shopping without needing to venture into the crowded central area. It’s a rare indoor shopping mall on the island.
While it might seem a bit smaller if you’re imagining a large Japanese shopping mall, it houses a reliable supermarket called ‘Save More,’ a 7-Eleven, and various eateries. Its selection is more than sufficient for acquiring daily necessities, beverages, and shareable souvenirs during your trip.
Although the air conditioning inside the facility might be a bit weaker, a charming local quirk, cooling down with a cheap 25-peso mango ice cream from the food court is a delightful way to immerse yourself in local daily life. Free shuttle buses from hotels often operate, so those staying in the northern area should definitely take advantage of them.
[Column] Tips for Fail-Proof Souvenir Shopping in Boracay Island
To make your souvenir hunting in Boracay Island even more fulfilling, there are a few strategic tips you should know.
First, ‘don’t miss out on bulk purchase promotions’. Many souvenir shops in Boracay regularly offer discounts like ’10+1 (Buy 10, Get 1 Free)’. If you’re traveling with friends, instead of buying individually, combine your purchases at the register to apply this promotion, making for very savvy shopping.
Second, ‘comply with environmental rules’. As mentioned in the article, Boracay Island has strict regulations to protect its beautiful beaches, and plastic bags are not provided. Bringing 1-2 foldable eco-bags that you usually use from home will allow you to safely carry items like alcohol or heavy jars (such as Devil’s Jam).
Third, ‘actively utilize tasting and sampling opportunities’. Jams and soaps made with tropical fruits may have different aromas or sweetness compared to those in Japan. At shops like Greencoco that offer tastings, or stores that provide soap scent samples, don’t hesitate to use your five senses to try them out. This way, you’re sure to discover ‘your unique favorites’ that you’ll truly be satisfied with even after returning home.
