The Economics of the Sea View Premium
In established vacation rental markets around the world, sea-view or ocean-facing accommodations consistently command 25–60% higher nightly rates than comparable units without the view. Boracay is no exception. Data from online travel agencies consistently shows that sea-view units in Boracay achieve higher average daily rates, higher occupancy during shoulder seasons, and stronger guest review scores.
How to Assess the Quality of a Sea View
Not all 'sea view' claims in Boracay are equal. Investors should assess sea views using five criteria: (1) Directness — Is the sea visible directly, or is it a partial or angled view? (2) Permanence — Could future development obstruct the view? (3) Floor level — Higher-floor units typically achieve better views. (4) Orientation — West-facing sea views in Boracay capture the famous White Beach sunsets. (5) Distance from water — A sea view from 300 meters away is fundamentally different from one from 50 meters away.
Valuing a Sea-View Premium Correctly
When evaluating a sea-view unit against non-sea-view comparables, the incremental purchase price premium should be assessed against the incremental rental income expected. If a sea-view unit costs PHP 2 million more than a comparable interior unit but generates PHP 150,000 more in annual net rental income, the premium payback period is approximately 13 years — reasonable if the property is held long-term. If the premium costs more than 15 years of incremental income to recover, the view may be overpriced relative to investment fundamentals.
