Puka Beach, also known as Puka Shell Beach, derives its name from the distinctive white puka shells that once littered its northern Boracay shoreline, each shell featuring a natural hole ('puka' in local vernacular) that made them ideal for crafting necklaces and bracelets sold to visitors. Located at the northern tip of Boracay Island in Malay, Aklan, this 800-meter beach remained a well-kept secret frequented primarily by local fishers and shell collectors throughout the mid-20th century, only gaining wider recognition in the late 1900s as Boracay's tourism industry expanded. The beach's relative isolation and raw natural beauty attracted travelers seeking alternatives to the island's increasingly crowded southern beaches, establishing Puka Beach as a tranquil escape showcasing Boracay's original character.
Swimming in the crystal-clear turquoise waters provides refreshing relief in a more peaceful setting than White Beach, with slightly coarser sand created from crushed shells underfoot. Snorkeling reveals vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical marine life just offshore, offering windows into thriving underwater ecosystems. Beachcombing for puka shells remains a signature activity, though visitors should collect sparingly to allow natural replenishment. Island hopping tours frequently include Puka Beach stops combined with snorkeling at nearby islands, while paddleboarding, skim boarding, crystal kayak photo sessions, and paraw sunset sailing operate when wave conditions permit. The lush tropical backdrop and tranquil atmosphere make the beach ideal for beachfront picnics and relaxation away from Boracay's busier commercial areas.
Nalka Seafood Restaurant at The Muse Hotel Station 1 offers order-all-you-can-ala-carte seafood featuring grilled fish, prawns, squid, and Filipino preparations with beachfront seating. Sirena at Shangri-La's Boracay Resort presents three-tier seafood platters, fresh oysters, lobster thermidor, and premium catches with panoramic ocean views. Dos Mestizos serves Filipino-Castilian fusion including calamares fritos, oysters al ajillo, paella, and langostinos en aroma de azafrán y ajo. Sugba de Boracay delivers massive platters of crabs, shrimp, Aklan oysters, and seafood kare-kare at affordable prices in Station 1 and Station 2. Mama's Fish House offers beachfront dining with fresh seafood prepared Filipino and Asian-style including grilled fish, sinigang soup, and coconut-based dishes.
