D’Mall is the lively center of Boracay, offering a unique shopping and dining experience. It’s not like a big, air-conditioned mall; instead, it’s an outdoor market packed with an assortment of shops, restaurants, and stalls. You can find everything from beachwear and souvenirs to tasty food and fun activities. Located in Station 2, it’s easily accessible for everyone staying in Boracay.
What to Expect at D’Mall
Picture wandering through winding pathways, surrounded by colorful shops and cozy eateries. That’s what D’Mall is all about. The atmosphere is chill and welcoming, with vendors eager to showcase their products without being too pushy. Be ready to share the space with many fellow tourists, especially in the evening when the area comes alive. Since it’s a pedestrian-only zone, you don’t have to worry about vehicles, making it safe for everyone. Keep an eye out for street performers and musicians; they add to the lively vibe, especially near the beachside.
Shopping Spree: What You Can Buy
D’Mall is a treasure trove for shoppers, every corner revealing potential souvenirs, gifts, or treats for yourself. Here’s a closer look at some popular items you can find:
Beachwear: Since Boracay is famous for its beautiful beaches, D’Mall offers a wide range of beachwear. You’ll find shops selling swimsuits, cover-ups, sunglasses, hats, and flip-flops. From budget options to high-end brands, you’ll be able to find something that fits your style. Expect to spend around PHP 500-2000 (USD 9-36) for a good swimsuit, depending on the brand and quality.
Souvenirs: D’Mall is perfect for picking up fun souvenirs like personalized keychains, t-shirts printed with Boracay logos, handcrafted jewelry, shell crafts, and even local snacks. The prices vary, and your bargaining skills may help you land a better deal. A simple keychain might run you around PHP 50 (USD 0.90), while a beautiful shell craft can start from PHP 500 and go up to PHP 1500 (USD 9-27).
Handicrafts: Showcasing local craftsmanship, you can discover wooden carvings, woven bags, and stunning paintings. These unique pieces make excellent gifts and help support local artisans. Prices for handicrafts can vary based on size and complexity. A woven bag might start at PHP 300 (USD 5.40), while larger art pieces can command several thousand pesos.
Jewelry: Several stalls boast beautiful jewelry made from shells, pearls, and local materials. Be sure to check the quality of items, especially pearls, and remember that prices are often negotiable. A basic shell bracelet can cost around PHP 100 (USD 1.80), whereas pearl necklaces can range from PHP 500 to PHP 5000 (USD 9-90) or even more, depending on their quality and size.
Clothing: In addition to beachwear, D’Mall features casual clothing such as shorts, t-shirts, dresses, and skirts perfect for the island vibe. Look for items made from lightweight fabric so you’ll feel comfortable. Prices can range from PHP 300-2000 (USD 5.40-36), depending on the brand and material.
Local Delicacies: Don’t forget to explore local treats! You can sample and buy dried mangoes, otap (a flaky pastry), and banana chips. These local delicacies make wonderful gifts to take back home. Expect most packs to cost between PHP 100-300 (USD 1.80-5.40).
Foodie Adventures: Where to Eat
D’Mall is not just a haven for shoppers; it’s a foodie paradise, where you can savor various meals and snacks to satisfy your taste buds!
Filipino Cuisine: Relish local favorites like adobo, sinigang, and lechon. Many restaurants offer combo meals that are budget-friendly and allow you to sample multiple dishes. For instance, you might find a set meal containing adobo, rice, and a drink for around PHP 300-500 (USD 5.40-9). If you’re looking for a delicious roasted chicken, check out Andok’s—it’s a popular choice among locals and tourists alike.
Seafood: Naturally, being on an island, trying the local seafood should be on your list. Many places display fresh seafood, allowing you to choose what you want to eat. Common options include grilled fish, prawns, and squid. Pricing can vary depending on the catch of the day, ranging from PHP 800-2000 (USD 14.40-36) per kilo for grilled dishes.
International Flavors: If you’re in the mood for something other than Filipino food, D’Mall has you covered with a variety of international restaurants. Italian, American, Korean, and other cuisines are available. You can find pizza, pasta, burgers, and ramen easily. Generally, prices for international meals are higher than local ones, with main courses typically costing between PHP 500-1500 (USD 9-27).
Street Food: Don’t overlook the street food highlights! Traditional snacks like grilled corn, isaw (grilled chicken intestines), and kakanin (sweet rice treats) are cheap and delicious ways to experience local flavors. Prices for these tasty snacks usually range from PHP 20-100 (USD 0.36-1.80) per item.
Desserts and Drinks: Satisfy your sweet cravings with refreshing fruit shakes or indulge in the Filipino dessert halo-halo. Many food stalls providing various desserts and drinks are available, perfect for cooling off. Fruit shakes usually cost around PHP 100-200 (USD 1.80-3.60), while a serving of halo-halo can range from PHP 150-300 (USD 2.70-5.40).
Budget-Friendly Eats: For those keeping an eye on their budget, smaller eateries and food stalls offer affordable meals without sacrificing flavor. It is possible to feast on a simple rice meal with a viand for around PHP 150-250 (USD 2.70-4.50).
Entertainment and Activities
Beyond shopping and dining, D’Mall has a variety of entertainment options to enjoy.
Live Music: Many of the restaurants and bars have live music, especially in the evenings. You can enjoy acoustic performances, reggae bands, or DJs playing your favorite tracks while you eat or relax. Most of these performances don’t have a cover charge.
Fire Dancers: After sunset, head to the beach area near D’Mall to catch incredible fire dancers putting on a show. It’s one of the top attractions for tourists, and it’s customary to tip dancers. A tip of about PHP 50-200 (USD 0.90-3.60) is ideal, but feel free to tip according to your enjoyment.
Henna Tattoos: For a unique keepsake, consider getting a temporary henna tattoo from one of the many talented artists in D’Mall. You can choose from various designs or even request custom artwork. Prices vary based on size and detail—a small design might cost around PHP 200 (USD 3.60), while a larger piece can be anywhere from PHP 500-1000 (USD 9-18).
Massages: After a long day of shopping or beach activities, treat yourself to a relaxing massage. Many establishments within and around D’Mall offer massage services. Prices can differ based on the type of massage and duration. A 30-minute foot massage usually costs around PHP 300-500 (USD 5.40-9), while a full-body massage might run between PHP 500-1000 (USD 9-18) or more.
Beach Access: The best part? D’Mall’s location right on White Beach means you can easily mix shopping and dining with a refreshing swim or a leisurely stroll along the sandy shore.
Tips for a Smooth D’Mall Experience
Bargain: Don’t hesitate to negotiate, especially in small shops. Many vendors expect haggling and will often lower their prices if you ask.
Bring Cash: While credit cards are accepted in many places, having some cash handy is a good idea, especially for quick purchases at food stalls. ATMs are available, but they can sometimes run low on cash or have long queues.
Stay Hydrated: The heat can be intense, so drink plenty of water while you’re out and about. Bottled water is easily available in the shops throughout D’Mall.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: As in any busy tourist area, keep an eye on your belongings and be cautious of pickpockets.
Dress Comfortably: Wear light, comfortable clothing and shoes since you’ll likely be doing a lot of walking.
Visit During Off-Peak Hours: If large crowds aren’t your favorite, consider visiting D’Mall in the early morning or during the day to avoid peak times.
Compare Prices: Before making any purchases, take a moment to compare prices in different shops so you’ll know you’re getting a good deal.
Respect Local Customs: Always be respectful of the local customs and traditions, especially if you’re venturing away from tourist areas. Modest dress is appreciated when visiting religious sites.
Call to Action!
D’Mall is more than just a shopping hub; it is a vibrant piece of the Boracay experience. With its rich blend of shops, delightful restaurants, and entertainment options, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re hunting for that perfect souvenir, wanting to indulge in local flavors, or looking to soak up the lively atmosphere, D’Mall should be on your must-visit list. So wander around, bargain for a great deal, savor the local dishes, and create unforgettable memories in the heart of Boracay.
