What is Puka Shell Beach?
Located on the northernmost tip of Boracay Island, Puka Shell Beach (also known as Yapak Beach) is the island's second-longest beach at approximately 800 meters. It takes its name from the white puka shells — small, naturally perforated shells used in jewelry — that are scattered throughout its coarser sand. Unlike the ultra-fine talc of White Beach, the sand here has more texture and character.
Puka Shell Beach remained relatively undeveloped for years due to its location away from the main tourist strip. While it has become more popular recently and now has several food stalls, it retains a distinctly more natural, relaxed atmosphere than its famous counterpart.
How to Get to Puka Shell Beach
From White Beach, Puka Shell Beach is approximately 4 kilometers north. The easiest way to get there is by tricycle from your hotel, which takes 10–15 minutes and costs ₱100–₱150. You can also visit it as part of an island hopping tour — most tours stop here for 45–60 minutes, making it a convenient addition to a full-day excursion.
For the adventurous, a motorized banca boat can be hired directly from Cagban Jetty to approach from the water. Alternatively, some visitors enjoy a long beach walk from Station 1 northward, though the route passes through a private resort section and requires beach hopping.
What Makes It Special
The first thing you notice at Puka Shell Beach is the quality of the water. The beach faces north, creating slightly different wave patterns than White Beach. The water is brilliantly clear with excellent visibility for snorkeling directly from shore. The protected reef areas nearby harbor sea turtles, which are frequently spotted by snorkelers.
The setting is framed by dramatic karst hillsides covered in tropical vegetation, creating a more dramatic backdrop than the relatively flat landscape of the White Beach area. Coconut trees lean dramatically over the water, and local vendors sell freshly cracked coconuts for ₱50. A handful of simple restaurants on the beach serve grilled seafood, cold drinks, and Filipino meals at very reasonable prices.
Collecting Puka Shells
Shell collecting is technically regulated in the Philippines to prevent depletion of marine resources. Taking large quantities of shells is prohibited. However, finding and photographing the beautiful puka shells is an enjoyable activity in itself. The shells are small (typically 0.5–2 cm), disc-shaped with a natural hole, and range from white to cream to pale brown. They're easiest to find near the waterline at low tide.
Best Time to Visit
Puka Shell Beach is best visited during the Amihan season (November–May) when the northern winds create calm, clear conditions. During Habagat (June–October), the northern-facing beach can experience stronger wave action. Mornings are best — by noon, tour boats from island hopping tours arrive and the beach gets crowded for a few hours before groups depart.
