travel article about boracay

Experience the best of the Philippines in Boracay

Pristine beaches and enhanced safety measures make this idyllic island worth a look when the Philippines is ready to welcome you again.

Since there’s so much to see and do in the Philippines , it can be daunting to decide where to go. The string of islands feature an astounding 22,500 miles of coastline and is brimming with extraordinary travel experiences. While no single place encapsulates all the Pacific archipelago has to offer, Boracay comes close, making the small island a smart choice for a best-of-the-Philippines experience.

Boracay is also well-positioned to be a first-trip destination for people in the nearby regions who are eager to travel again. Hotels are required to meet strict health standards based on World Health Organizations coronavirus guidelines, and only confirmed hotel guests are permitted into the island. Limiting the number of visitors is one of the many “new normal” steps Boracay has taken to help everyone stay safe.

SEAMLESS TRAVEL

Boasting sugar-white beaches, crystalline coves, and all manner of water adventures, four-square-mile Boracay is the Philippines in microcosm. The island’s compact size inspires exploration. Discover a varied array of outdoor activities and sights across Boracay’s three barangays or districts: Yapak on the northern end, Balabag in the middle, and Manoc-Manoc in the south. Use environmentally-friendly electric tricycles, or e-trikes, to get around on land, and traditional paraws , or double outrigger sail boats, to travel by water.

Enhancing the ease of travel in Boracay is the island-wide commitment to curb the spread of COVID-19. No matter where you go, wearing face masks and maintaining safe physical distancing are the norm. Each visitor also receives a QR code upon arrival in Boracay, allowing for contactless transactions across the island.

BEACH PARADISE

Of the more than a dozen beaches in Boracay, none is more famous than the three-mile-long White Beach. Stringent environmental protections and health protocols are enforced to keep this famous beach pristine, serene, and ready to welcome the tourists again.

At the northern edge of White Beach, follow the cliff-bottom footpath to one of Boracay’s best pocket beaches: Diniwid. The craggy bluff separating the two beaches makes tiny Diniwid a bit of a hidden treasure. It’s also one of the best spots in Boracay to watch the sunset.

OCEANS OF ADVENTURE

The clear, shallow waters surrounding Boracay are perfect for adventures in and on the water. Elite kiteboarders and windsurfers flock to the windward eastern coast, while the sheltered waters on the island’s western side are best for activities like kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, and even learning how to swim like a mermaid—complete with tail and fin.

For an adrenaline-pumping rush, hop over to neighboring Carabao Island where you can go cliff jumping into the turquoise sea and swim in submerged caverns. Off Boracay’s southeastern tip, go snorkeling among parrotfish, pufferfish, and the other brilliant aquatic life found around Crocodile Island. The rocky islet’s shape resembles a sharp-toothed reptile (hence the name) and its sloping coral reef is a top dive spot.

LEGENDARY HOSPITALITY

Visitors instantly feel at home in Boracay thanks to the bayanihan , or spirit of cooperation and community, deeply ingrained in Filipino culture. Genuinely warm and welcoming, Filipinos are legendary for their hospitality. One reason why the Philippines regularly receives kudos as one of the world’s friendliest countries is this. The authentic kindness and positive vibe make it easy to relax, unplug, and fully embrace the laid-back, island life.

The cooperative spirit of the Philippines is particularly appreciated now as everyone navigates the world of “new normal” travel. For traveler peace of mind, Boracay has rolled out a number of helpful resources, including a COVID-19 hotline. The island is also equipped with a hospital for coronavirus testing and treatment, one of the many reasons to consider a getaway to Boracay—when you’re ready to travel again.

For Hungry Minds

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2024 BORACAY TRAVEL GUIDE with Requirements, Sample Itinerary & Budget

Any conversation about tourism in the Philippines feels incomplete without at least a mention of Boracay . After all, it is undoubtedly the country’s most popular destination, topping various publications’ lists of best islands not just in Asia but in the world.

This massive attention transformed what used to be a quiet village into a developed — or in the eyes of some, overdeveloped — tourist destination. Resorts of all shapes, sizes and classes have sprouted along its shining coast. Lanes of restaurants and shops mushroomed along its streets and alleys. And two airports have been built to serve the growing number of locals and visitors coming in and out of the island.

SAVE THESE ESSENTIAL BORACAY LINKS

Top Boracay Hotels Find Deals on Agoda! Convenient Airport Transfer Packages to Boracay Caticlan Airport to Boracay Top Activities on Klook Boracay Island Hopping Tour Photo Session at White Beach! Boracay Restaurant DISCOUNT Vouchers Parasailing (Parachute) UFO Ride Banana Boat Ride

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

UNDERSTANDING BORACAY

It’s easy to see why Boracay has been enchanting millions of tourists a year. Even for non-believers, its sheer natural beauty will smack you in the face as soon as you set foot in the island’s biggest asset — White Beach . This sparkling picture-perfect strip must be what paradise is made of. We’ve been to countless other beaches around the world, but only few could rival Boracay’s shimmering sand.

Boracay’s development has also made it a destination for everyone. Whether you’re a budget backpacker or a luxury traveler, young or old, solo or on a honeymoon, with friends or with family, you’ll find something to fall in love with here. Plus, most conveniences that we enjoy in the city can also be found here.

Boracay Island is part of the Municipality of Malay , which is a part of the Province of Aklan, which is a part of Panay Island. Caticlan, the barangay on the mainland closest to Boracay, serves as the gateway to the island. Both the Caticlan Airport and the Caticlan Jetty Port are located here.

Here are more bits about Boracay.

• Location: Boracay is within the municipality of Malay, province of Aklan in the Philippines. Mainland Aklan is part of Panay Island.
• Languages: Aklanon and Ati are the native languages. But locals, especially those working in the tourism industry, can fluently speak and understand Tagalog and English.
• Time Zone: UTC+8 (Philippine Standard Time). The Philippines is in the same time zone as Singapore and Beijing, one hour ahead of Thailand, and one hour behind Japan.
• Currency: Philippine peso (PHP, ₱). PHP100 is around USD 1.81, EUR 1.66, SGD 2.45 (as of July 2023).
• Modes of payment: CASH, primarily. Some establishments accept credit cards, but most smaller stores and eateries accept only cash or GCash.

BORACAY TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

Because Boracay is visited by millions of tourists, the local government is monitoring and regulating the entry of visitors. Here are the requirements that you’ll need to prepare and present upon entry.

• Tourist Arrival Form. To be accomplished upon arrival at the Caticlan Jetty Port. I also found this online form , but in my experience, even if you accomplish this, a physical form will still be filled out on site, which makes the online form pointless.
• Valid ID. For Filipinos, any valid ID will do. For foreigners, passport.

A confirmed hotel or resort booking is no longer required, but it remains HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. Boracay has a list of accredited resorts, hotels, inns, and guesthouses. To see the complete list, check out: LIST OF ACCREDITED BORACAY RESORTS AND HOTELS! ✅

But given the sheer number of lodging options in Boracay, where is the best place to stay?

WHERE TO STAY IN BORACAY

When looking for a place to stay in Boracay, it is important to be familiar with its geography. Boracay is a bone-shaped island politically divided into three barangays (villages): Balabag, Manoc-Manoc, and Yapak. Manoc-Manoc is the southernmost barangay, where the jetties are located. You’ll be encountering the names of these barangays when checking out accommodations online. But for tourism purposes, it’ll be easier to split the island not by barangay but by beach.

Most people who haven’t been to Boracay are under the impression that it has only one beach because most media features focus on its main stretch — White Beach. And while it is the longest and most popular, it is not the only strip of sand here. The island is hemmed by over a dozen beaches!

White Beach , the busiest, most crowded, and the most stunning beach on the island. This has the highest concentration of accommodations. It is also the longest beach, split into three boat stations:

• Station 1 is the northern section of White Beach, in Barangay Balabag. It is the quietest of the three stations and what many regard as the most beautiful, thanks to its wide bed of white sand. It’s also where you’ll find the iconic Willy’s Rock (grotto). However, while there are a few budget-friendly options, most resorts here are on the more upscale end of the spectrum.
• Station 2 is the epicenter of all the action in Boracay. It is the busiest part of the island, where you’ll find the greatest concentration of lodging, dining, and shopping establishments including D’Mall, arguably the most visited area here. It’s also the most accessible and most connected part of the island. The catch is, it’s loud, crowded and always abuzz with activities.
• Station 3 is tucked in the southernmost end of White Beach. Because the sand here is narrower and steeper, it is not as popular or as crowded as Station 2, but it is still pretty accessible. The area is also brimming with more affordable inns, hostels, and guesthouses.

Aside from White Beach, you’ll also find other accommodations in other parts of the island.

• Station 0 is not part of White Beach. It is the nickname given to Punta Bunga Beach, a cove shared by Shangri-La Boracay, Crimson Resort and Spa, and Movenpick Resort and Spa. These are all high-end resorts, which means only a few guests have access to the place. Prices per night at these resorts range from PHP 11,000 for a room to PHP 30,000 for suites to PHP 70,000 for super posh villas.
• Diniwid Beach is a short patch of sand north of White Beach, separated only by a promontory. Although seemingly isolated, there is a cemented walking trail along the beach that connects Diniwid to White Beach. Some of the establishments you’ll find here are Microtel by Wyndham and Dinibeach Bar & Restaurant.
• Banyugan Beach serves as the private cove of Shangri-La Boracay. Yes, Shangri-la has access to two coves.
• Boracay Newcoast is a 150-hectare township-style property occupying the northeastern edges of the island, between Lapuz-Lapuz Beach and Ilig-iligan Beach. Located here are Savoy Hotel and Belmont Hotel, among others. If you’re looking for some peace and quiet away from the crowd, it’s something to consider. It’s not the most accessible, but the hotels here provide free shuttle service to White Beach.
• Bulabog Beach is another long stretch hugging the eastern side of the island, almost parallel to White Beach. The sand here isn’t fine, but it is also very accessible and is most well-known as the jump off point for many exciting water activities and great for sunrise watching.

If you’re on a budget, another place to consider is the inland area between White Beach and Bulabog Beach. You’ll find many pleasant guesthouses and apartments for rent here like Dakong Amihan and Villa D’enghien.

Best Neighborhood to Stay

What’s best depends on why you’re in Boracay in the first place and how much you’re willing to shell out for accommodations. We wrote a more detailed comparison of each area here: BEST AREA TO STAY IN BORACAY!

But here’s a quick summary:

• If it’s your first time, any of White Beach’s three stations is ideal. This will give you easy access to everything.
• If you’re on a budget, try looking for affordable places to stay in Station 3 and in inland areas. Beachfront properties tend to be much more expensive. The border between Stations 1 and 2 have a number of relatively cheap backpacking hostels, too.
• If you’re after peace and quiet or you’re celebrating a special occasion, Boracay New Coast and Diniwid Beach may be worth a look.

I personally prefer White Beach Station 1 because it is the quietest but still very accessible. But Stations 2 and 3 are also good and have more pocket-friendly options.

IMPORTANT! If you wish to stay in Boracay, NO BOOKING, NO ENTRY. You must show proof of booking or reservation with any of the accredited hotels.

To see the complete list, check out: DOT-APPROVED BORACAY RESORTS AND HOTELS! ✅

Top Boracay Budget Hotels & Guesthouses

Below are the top Boracay budget hotels and hostels on Agoda and Booking.com, as ranked by users. Most of these are NOT beachfront.

• Kommons by Kamino , Station 3. Check Rates! • Check Availability! ✅
• Villa D’enghien , Inland. Check Rates and Availability! ✅
• Villa Caemilla Beach Boutique Hotel , Station 3. Check Rates! • Check Availability! ✅
• OCEAN BREEZE INN , Station 3. Check Rates! • Check Availability! ✅
• Serene La Playa Boracay , Station 1/Inland. Check Rates! • Check Availability! ✅
• The Paragon Boracay Suites , Station 3. Check Rates! • Check Availability! ✅
• Jony’s Beach Resort , Station 1 (along Main Road). Check Rates! • Check Availability! ✅
• Jinjiang Inn – Boracay Station 1 (along Main Road). Check Rates! • Check Availability! ✅

Top Boracay Hostels

If you’re a backpacker or a solo traveler, here are some hostels to consider:

• Frendz Hostel Boracay , Station 2. Check Rates! • Check Availability! ✅
• W Hostel Boracay , Bulabog Beach. Check Rates and Availability! ✅
• Chill Out Hostel , Inland, closer to Bulabog than White Beach. Check Rates! • Check Availability! ✅
• Shore Time Dormitel , Inland/Station 3. Check Rates! • Check Availability! ✅
• Boracay Backpackers , Station 1. Check Rates! • Check Availability! ✅
• Viajeros Hostel Boracay , Bulabog Beach. Check Rates and Availability! ✅
• The A Hostel , Inland/Station 2. Check Rates! • Check Availability! ✅

Top Boracay Hotels for Families and Groups

Traveling with family or barkada? Here’s a list of properties in Boracay that have rooms that can accommodate groups of four or more. Out of all of these, we have tried Azalea Hotel, Le Soleil de Boracay, and Henann Park Resort, and we enjoyed our stay.

• Azalea Hotels & Residences Boracay , Station 2. Check Rates! • Check Availability! ✅
• Le Soleil de Boracay Hotel , Station 2. Check Rates! • Check Availability! ✅
• Fairways and Bluewater Boracay . Check Rates! • Check Availability! ✅
• Henann Park Resort , Station 2. Check Rates! • Check Availability! ✅
• La Carmela de Boracay Hotel , Station 2. Check Rates and Availability! ✅
• Henann Regency Resort and Spa , Station 2. Check Rates and Availability! ✅
• The Piccolo Hotel of Boracay , Station 2. Check Rates! • Check Availability! ✅
• COAST Boracay , Station 2. Check Rates! • Check Availability! ✅
• Kamusta Boutique Hotel , Station 1. Check Rates! • Check Availability! ✅

Search for more Boracay Hotels!

How to get to boracay.

All tourists traveling to Boracay must pass through Caticlan, a barangay in mainland Aklan. It has two ports that passengers may use to get to the island, depending on the season: Caticlan Jetty Port and Tabon Port . You don’t need to worry about it because they are not too far apart and every driver in Caticlan knows which port is operational at any given time.

The first step to reach Boracay is to make your way to Caticlan. You have several options.

• By plane, via Caticlan Airport
• By plane, via Kalibo Airport
• By ferry, via 2GO Travel

The island is served by two airports: Kalibo International Airport (KLO) , which involves around 2 hours of travel time; and Caticlan International Airport (MPH) aka Boracay Airport , which is just 15 minutes away from either sea port. All major airline in the country flies to both airports, but Caticlan offers more options from morning to evening.

Hence, if you’re coming from Manila, the fastest and easiest way to Boracay is by flying to Caticlan Airport.

But if budget is limited and you have a lot of time, you may take an overnight ferry from Batangas Port to Caticlan, too.

Caticlan to Boracay

If flying to Caticlan, you will deplane at the Arrivals Terminal located on the other end and on the other side of the runway, far from the Departures Terminal. After collecting your luggage, exit the terminal building and book a tricycle to Caticlan Jetty Port or Tabon Port. The driver knows which port to go to. We have a more detailed transfer guide here: Caticlan Airport to Boracay .

• Fare: PHP 150 per tricycle, maximum of 2 passengers or PHP 75 per person.
• Travel time: 10 minutes.

It doesn’t need to be a tricycle ride. If you want a more comfortable, hassle-free experience, consider booking a packaged transfer service. Aside from the air-conditioned van transfer from Caticlan Airport to the jetty port, you will also be assisted through the port processes and the driver can help you with your luggage. The price already includes the van airport transfer, boat crossing, and multi-cab hotel transfer.

✅ CHECK TRANSFER PACKAGE RATES HERE!

If you’d rather travel on your own, upon arrival at the jetty port, enter the building and follow these steps:

• Find the Documents Check counter and fill out the Tourist Arrival Form. Only one per group is needed to queue up and accomplish the form. But the staff will check the IDs of ALL passengers and hotel booking. The number of passengers must match the number of guests in the hotel booking. Once cleared, you’ll be given a slip.
• Pay the fees. Here are the current rates: – Terminal Fee: Regular, PHP 150; Seniors/PWD/Student, PHP 120; Kids 5yo and below, FREE – Environmental Fee: Local, PHP 150; Foreigner, PHP 300 – Boat Fee: PHP 50 For a regular domestic tourist, the total amounts to P350, one-way.
• Proceed to the Boarding Area. You’ll need to fill out the form on the boat stub. Once accomplished, exchange the boat stub with a boat seat number.
• Board your assigned boat and find your seat. The ride to the island should not take more than 20 minutes. Depending on the season and the weather, the boat will land at either Cagban Port or Tambisaan Port. The process is the same regardless.
• Ride an e-Trike or multi-cab to your hotel. The fare depends on the location of your hotel. – e-Trike fare: If shared, PHP 15-50 per person. If special/chartered trip, PHP 100-400 per e-trike. You’ll find the full fare matrix for e-trikes below. – Multi-cab fare: PHP 250 to Station 2 per vehicle, maximum of 10 pax.

Kalibo Airport to Boracay

If you’re coming in via Kalibo, the first step is to make it to Caticlan Jetty Port, and from there, the process is the same. Here are your options to get from Kalibo Airport to Caticlan:

• OPTION A: LOCAL BUS. Take a tricycle to the bus terminal and board a Ceres bus bound for Caticlan. Fare: PHP 147. This is the cheapest way to reach Caticlan from Kalibo. Once at Caticlan Jetty Port, follow the steps at the previous section (Caticlan to Boracay).
• OPTION B: TOURIST BUS/VAN. Look for “non-packaged” vans or buses that can take you directly to Caticlan Jetty Port. Fare should be only around P250. Travel time: around 2 hours. Once at Caticlan Jetty Port, follow the steps at Caticlan to Boracay section above.
• OPTION C: PACKAGED BUS/VAN TRANSFER SERVICE. If, for whatever reason, you don’t want to do the transfers on your own, a good option is to book a packaged transfer service. Aside from the comfortable transfer from Kalibo Airport to Caticlan, the price also covers the boat crossing, terminal fee, environmental fee and HOTEL transfer. You will also be assisted through the sometimes confusing process at the jetty port. This is great for those traveling to Boracay for the first time and traveling with kids, PWDs, or elderly. You can book them on Klook, too.

Below are where you can book packaged bus/van transfer services.

Manila to Boracay by 2GO Ferry

If you don’t like flying or the airfare is too much, you can also travel by sea. Caticlan is also the gateway to Boracay for those traveling by ferry. However, there is no direct ferry from Manila to Caticlan. Instead, you’d need to make your way to Batangas Port first.

2GO Travel has overnight sailings from Batangas to Caticlan every day. The ferry leaves Batangas Port at 9pm and arrives in Caticlan at either 8am or 11am, depending on your chosen route. Some sailings involve a stop in Odiangan, Romblon, but others go directly to Caticlan.

• Departure: 9:00 PM
• Arrival: 8:00 AM or 11:00 AM (the next day)
• Travel time: 11-14 hours (overnight)

We created a video showing the entire ferry process on our YouTube channel . You can also watch it below.

HOW TO GET AROUND

The e-tricycle or e-trike is the primary mode of transportation around the island. Most tricycles have fixed routes and will pick up or drop off passengers along the way, UNLESS you charter the entire vehicle for a “special” trip. A special trip means you’ll have the entire vehicle to yourself.

Here’s the approved e-trike fare matrix:

If you’re on a budget, be willing to share the tricycle with other passengers. Tell the driver “individual” and they’ll know you’re not arranging a private ride. Fare should be between PHP 15 and 20, depending on the distance.

That said, if you’ll be an inconvenience to other passengers — e.g. you’re soaking wet from swimming or you have a big luggage in tow — just charter a special trip.

You may also arrange an e-trike tour of the island. Although drivers usually have a suggested itinerary, it is completely up to you. Rate is per hour, anyway. However, for island tours, only 4 pax are allowed per vehicle.

Here are the details.

Fare: P500/hour (per vehicle) Maximum of 4 pax per e-trike

Usual Stops:

• Diniwid Beach
• Bulabog Beach
• Ilig-iligan Beach

By Hop-On Hop Off (HOHO)

Boracay now has a Hop-On Hop Off (HOHO) service, operated by Southwest Tours in partnership with Top.ph. The HOHO uses air-conditioned shuttle or mini-bus units with CCTV cameras and wi-fi. It runs from Tambisaan and Cagban ports on the southern edge of the island all the way to Puka Beach in the north, making stops in Stations 1 to 3 and even Newcoast along the way. Here are the stops.

• Fare: PHP 13-32, depending on distance/stop.
• Schedule: Ideally, there’s a mini-bus at any given stop every 15 minutes, from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

Only cashless transactions are accepted, so you need to purchase a HOHO QR Pass before using the service. But if you feel like you’ll be using it multiple times a day, consider getting a 1-Day HOHO Unlimited Pass Card. It normally costs PHP 200, but you can get a discount if you book with Klook.

✅ Buy HOHO Unli Pass Card here!

THINGS TO DO IN BORACAY

Boracay may be a small island but it is packed with natural attractions and exciting activities that travelers of all ages could enjoy. In this post, we’ll enumerate these briefly, but if you want a more detailed description of each tourist spot, you may check out our dedicated post about it: THINGS TO DO IN BORACAY .

White Beach

Boracay’s greatest treasure. This shining, shimmering, splendid beach is perhaps the first to come to mind when we think of Boracay. It is the island’s longest beach, measuring about 4 kilometers (2.5 miles), lined with picture-perfect coconut trees. Its biggest asset is its fine, white sand, something only a few can rival or come close to. Here are some of the activities you could enjoy at Boracay’s White Beach:

• Swim and laze on the sand , of course.
• Check out Willy’s Rock , the island’s iconic grotto.
• Watch the sunset . White Beach faces west, so it’s a magnificent sunset spot.
• Standup paddle . Rates: 30-Minute, PHP 500; 1-Hour, PHP 700. Book here!
• Crystal kayak . Rates: PHP 250/person for 15-20 minutes.

Although crystal kayak is available at White Beach, you could enjoy it for a much lower fare at other beaches like Puka Beach.

And because White Beach faces west, it’s also a fantastic sunset watching spot! Boracay displays some of the most gorgeous sunsets in the world. No wonder a lot of tourists come waiting for it on the beach every single day.

Photo and Video Session

Boracay is a fantastic place to capture wonderful moments and immortalize them in photos or videos. And now, you can easily hire a professional for a 2-hour photo/video shoot at any Station along White Beach! The bright turquoise waters in the background will make each shot breathtaking. Great for couples, families, and friends (barkada)!

✅ Book a PHOTO SHOOT here!

✅ Book a VIDEO SHOOT here!

Island Hopping

One of the most popular activities in Boracay. Most of the island hopping packages offered are on group tour basis — meaning, you’ll be sharing a big boat with other tourists as you visit other beaches and snorkeling sites. You’ll be following a strict itinerary that you must follow, around 40-60 minutes per stop.

Tours usually start and end at Station 1 and/or Station 3. Operators also use almost identical itineraries, with only a couple of variations, usually the lunch stop and the snorkeling site. Here are the common stops and the corresponding entrance fees:

• Puka Beach , no entrance fee
• Snorkeling Site , PHP 45
• Crystal Cove , PHP 300
• Magic Island (not all tours), PHP 250

Price: PHP 800-900 per person , inclusive of buffet lunch and sometimes, use of mask. However, this does not include entrance fees and snorkeling fee.

Jump off point : Station 1 or Station 3

If it’s your first time in Boracay, go ahead and join an island hopping tour. But to be honest, if you’ve tried island hopping in other Philippine destinations like Palawan, Bohol, or Cebu, you might get a bit underwhelmed. Boracay’s key assets are within the main island itself, not so much in the smaller isles surrounding it.

Land Tour (e-Trike or Multicab)

Another way to explore Boracay is by land. For this, you need to charter an e-trike, which costs P500 per hour (approved tariff). For an island tour, an e-trike driver is only allowed to accommodate up to 4 passengers per vehicle.

If you’re part of a bigger group, instead of hiring multiple e-trikes, consider a multi-cab instead. This was what we did on our most recent trip. A multi-cab is allowed up to 10 passengers. At P700 per hour, this ends up much cheaper and efficient.

• E-Trike Tour PHP 500/hour Maximum of 4 pax
• Multi-cab Tour PHP 700/hour Maximum of 10 pax

Just hail an e-trike or multi-cab at any time and tell the driver you’re interested in an island tour. Or if you’d rather have a tour arranged beforehand, here’s the contact number of the drivers we booked when we were in Boracay:

• E-trike: Kuya Ambro +63 943 1304164
• Multi-cab: Kuya Bong +63 939 823 8198

Unlike island hopping which has a fixed itinerary, on an e-trike or multi-cab tour, you have total control of the stops and duration. The driver usually has a suggested route, but it is completely up to you. Here are the usual stops:

• Lugutan Mangrove Park
• Sinagpa Beach
• Cujo’s Keyhole

None of these sites charge an entrance fee. For Lugutan Mangrove Park, however, you must register first before setting foot into the site.

Watersports & Other Activities

Boracay is also a giant playground for thrill-seekers and adventurers! Here are the rates of the most popular water activities:

• Parasailing (per person) – Solo: PHP 2500 – Tandem: PHP 1800 Check updated rates here!
• Helmet Diving : PHP 1000/pax. Check updated rates here!
• UFO ride: PHP 700/pax. Check updated rates here!
• Banana boat ride: PHP 450/pax. Check updated rates here!
• Kitesurfing (intro course): PHP 3800
• Paraw Sailing – Daytime (per person) – Solo: PHP 2000 – Duo: PHP 1000 – Trio: PHP 830 – Group of 4: PHP 750 – Group of 5: PHP 700 – Group of 6: PHP 670 Check updated rates here!
• Paraw Sailing – Sunset (per person) – Solo: PHP 2500 – Duo: PHP 1250 – Trio: PHP 1000 – Group of 4: PHP 875 – Group of 5: PHP 800 – Group of 6: PHP 750 Check updated rates here!
• Standup paddle – 30 minutes: PHP 500 – 1-Hour: PHP 700 Get discount here!
• Crystal kayak 15-20 minutes – At White Beach: PHP 250/person – At Puka Beach: PHP 150-200/person
• Jetski Rental (per vehicle) – 15 minutes: PHP 2200 – 30 minutes: PHP 3800 Check updated rates here!
• Scuba Diving , (Introductory Dive Rates) – Solo: PHP 5000 – Group of 2-6: PHP 3500 per person Check updated rates here!
• ATV Ride – 30 minutes: PHP 1500 Check rates or book here!

Massage and Spa Services

Rates may vary depending on the scope and length of each massage. Budget-friendly options abound along White Beach and the main road. As you walk along, you’ll probably be approached by spa staff offering various massage services.

But for more premium spa experiences, here are some options that you could book on Klook:

• Upperhouse Spa , The District, Station 2. Check rates & reserve here!
• Tirta Spa Boracay , Tambisaan. Check rates & reserve here!
• Mandala Spa , Station 3. Check rates & reserve here!
• Bella Isa Spa , Station 3. Check rates & reserve here!

This is the center of all the action in Boracay. Located sa Station 2, D’Mall has the greatest concentration of commercial establishments, including countless shops and restaurants. As you walk across this open-air mall, you’ll be tempted by stores selling all sorts of “essentials” from souvenirs to swimming gear, and a smorgasbord of iconic snacks, from Mango Halo to Coco Mama.

One thing Boracay has that many other beach destinations in the Philippines don’t is vibrant nightlife. While it’s no longer as wild as the pre-2018 era, it’s still quite fun; thanks to its roster of party places, many of which are beachfront.

Some of the most popular bars and clubs are:

• Paraw Beach Club
• Summer Place
• Two Brown Boys. Get 5% OFF here!

Our favorite drinking spot is Two Brown Boys , located along an inner alley near D’Mall (on the other side of the main road). It’s an island institution whipping out servings of its signature cocktails alongside giant burgers.

WHERE TO EAT IN BORACAY

If there’s one reason I love coming back to Boracay — other than the beach itself — it’s absolutely the food. While the island doesn’t have a globally revered traditional cuisine, it is bursting at the seams with reputable restaurants and food spots. Whatever you’re craving, you’ll probably find it in the island: Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, Indian, East Asian, Middle Eastern, and of course, Filipino food.

We wrote a separate, more comprehensive article describing some of the most popular restaurants in the island that we were able to try. READ: BORACAY TOP RESTAURANTS !

But here’s a short list of our top recommendations. We’re also including links to discount vouchers that you could avail of via Klook:

• Nonie’s . Get up to 15% OFF here! ✅
• Little Taj . Get up to 15% OFF here! ✅
• Two Brown Boys . Get 5% OFF here! ✅
• Dos Mestizos
• Pigout Bistro
• Barlo (Two Seasons Resort)

BarLo’s four-cheese pizza and sizzling oyster sisig are especially popular, so make sure you arrive early if you want to try it.

Boracay is also known for its iconic desserts and snacks, including:

• Ice Flakes . Our favorite! Order the mango or coconut bowls. Get 10% OFF here! ✅
• Halo Mango . Order mango ice cup (P250), crushed ice topped with real mango chunks and mango soft serve.
• Jonah’s Fruit Shake . Has several stores along White Beach.
• Coco Mama . Vegan coconut ice cream with real coconut strands and mango chunks, sprinkled with rice crispies.
• Ube Mama . Ube ice cream with ube pudding strands and palitaw balls, crowned with cornflakes.
• Real Coffee and Tea . Try its calamansi muffins (P70 apiece).

Admittedly, however, most of the well-known Boracay restaurants are on the expensive side. But it doesn’t mean you won’t be able to find budget eateries. We created a dedicated post enumerating affordable food spots in the island. READ: BORACAY AFFORDABLE RESTAURANTS!

HOW EXPENSIVE IS BORACAY?

While Boracay may be considered cheap by Western standards, it is much pricier than most other island destinations in the Philippines.

Here are the usual prices of common items in Boracay.

• Restaurant meal, average: around PHP 250
• Restaurant meal, upscale: around PHP 500
• Restaurant meal, budget eatery: PHP 50-150
• Street food (BBQ, isaw, etc): PHP 10-25 per stick
• Cocktails: around PHP 200 per glass
• McDonald’s Big Mac: PHP 188 (USD 3.45)
• Andok’s whole chicken: PHP 405
• Random street side roasted chicken: PHP 295

GROCERY ITEMS

• Bottled water, 1L: PHP 45
• Bottled water, 330-500 mL: PHP 17-35
• Softdrink in can, 320 mL: PHP 48
• Softdrink in bottle, 1.5L: PHP 90
• Softdrink in bottle, 2L: PHP 104
• Cup noodles: PHP 50-55

To compare, let’s use the Big Mac Index. In Boracay, the price of a Big Mac (solo) at McDonald’s is PHP 188 , which is PHP 17 costlier than the price in Manila and PHP 33 higher than in Batangas.

Same with Andok’s whole chicken, which costs PHP 405 in Boracay but only PHP 365 in many other places in the Philippines.

BORACAY BEACH SAFETY & RULES

Authorities strictly implement a number of policies throughout White Beach, including:

• NO drinking of alcohol
• NO illegal drugs
• NO littering
• NO loud music
• NO fire dancing
• NO pitching of umbrella
• NO beach beds/chairs
• NO taking home of sand

Safety first, so don’t dismiss the warning flags that are raised at specific spots along the beach. Here’s what each color means:

• Red with white line: No swimming (water closed to the public)
• Plain red: No swimming (high hazard)
• Purple: Dangerous marine life
• Yellow: Be cautious (medium hazard)
• Green: Safe to swim

Stating the obvious: if you don’t know how to swim, always wear a life vest!

Boracay has a hospital. And you’ll find a number of tourist police stations along White Beach and other areas. But take note of these emergency numbers:

• Hotline: 106
• Globe: 09630359648
• Smart: 09198514102

SAMPLE BORACAY ITINERARY

Here’s a sample Boracay long weekend itinerary that you may pattern your own after. It assumes you’re a party of 4 , splitting the cost of accommodations and other expenses. Feel free to adjust in order to match your flight schedules, tastes, and needs.

• DAY 1: ARRIVAL & LAND TOUR 09:00 am – Arrival at Caticlan Airport 09:20 am – Tricycle to Jetty Port, P75 09:40 am – Go through registration/verification 09:50 am – Pay fees: P150 terminal fee, P50 ticket, P150 environmental fee 10:10 am – Boarding 10:30 am – Arrival in Boracay 10:45 am – E-trike to resort, P37.50 (P150/4pax) 11:00 am – Hotel checkin or drop bags 11:30 am – Lunch, P200 01:00 pm – Land Tour for 4 hours, P500/pax 05:00 pm – Back to hotel, freshen up 07:00 pm – Dinner, P200 08:00 pm – Back to hotel
• DAY 2: ISLAND HOPPING 08:00 am – Wake up call, breakfast 09:30 am – Island hopping tour, P1245, Book here! 03:00 pm – End tour 03:30 pm – Crystal kayak, P250 04:30 pm – Swim and watch sunset 06:30 pm – Back to hotel, freshen up 07:30 pm – Dinner, P200 09:00 pm – Pasalubong shopping 10:30 pm – Back to hotel
• DAY 3: WHITE BEACH & DEPARTURE 6:00 am – Wake up call 07:00 am – Swimming at Station 1, Photo at Willy’s Rock 8:30 am – Jonah’s fruit shake, P175 09:00 am – Back to hotel, freshen up 10:00 am – Breakfast at hotel 11:45 am – Pick up bags at hotel reception 12:00 pm – E-trike to port, P37.50 (P150/4pax) 12:30 pm – Pay terminal fee and boat fee, P150 + P50 1:45 pm – Tricycle to Caticlan Airport, P20 2:00 pm – Flight check in 3:30 pm – Flight out

The itinerary above will cost you a minimum of PHP 3490 (USD 63, EUR 57.75, SGD 85) , excluding flights and hotel.

But please add plenty of allowance to accommodate any price adjustments and other possible incidental expenses. I recommend allocating at least PHP 3,990 (USD 72, EUR 66, SGD 97) for this itinerary.

If you’re able to snag a room with daily breakfast for PHP 1500/night/person, prepare a total of PHP 6990 (USD 126.20, EUR 115.60, SGD 169.60) , excluding airfare.

You can still reduce the costs further if you skip the island hopping altogether and have a full-day land tour instead on DAY 2.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

When is the best time to visit boracay.

November to May is the best time to visit Boracay.

Weather-wise, the months of February to May are the driest, which means there’s very little chance that unexpected showers would ruin your itinerary. However, it is also considered high season (peaking during Holy Week), so prepare to share the island with thousands of tourists!

The April-June period is also the peak of algal bloom at White Beach. In these months, the waters near the shore are covered by algae. Based on our most recent visits, March is when the algae is starting to make an appearance although not yet noticeable. It’s totally inescapable in April and May. By early July, the algae should be gone.

If you don’t like big crowds and algal bloom but you also want a relatively pleasant weather, November to February is the most ideal time to visit as long as you stay away from the days leading to Christmas and New Year.

Is Boracay safe?

Yes, Boracay is generally safe.

Like many touristy destinations, there are overcharging practices here and there, but scams are not as rampant as in other beach destinations in Southeast Asia. It’s also best to keep an eye on your belongings and don’t leave them just anywhere.

Again, take note of these emergency contact numbers:

What type of power plug / socket is used in Boracay?

Electricity Info: 220V, 60Hz. Plug and socket Type A.

What is the tipping custom in Boracay?

Just like in other places in the Philippines, tipping is NOT mandatory in Boracay. Restaurant bills usually include a service charge but it does not always go to the servers.

If you enjoyed the service, feel free to tip. A tip of 5-10% of the bill is generally well-appreciated.

Are there ATMs in Boracay?

YES, lots. You’ll fine most of them along the main road near Stations 1-3 and around D’Mall.

There are also money changers and Western Union branches throughout the same area.

Are drones allowed in Boracay?

YES, but you need to secure a special permit from the local government. The permit will specify the dates and times when and the areas where you can use your drone.

Example: This special permit is granted to Yosh Dimen to use his drone only at the front beach on June 15 and 17, from 6am to 6pm only.

The last time we checked, permit fee was PHP 1300 per day. It’s a bit steep, but you know what’s steeper? Fines. If you’re caught flying your drone without a permit, you’ll be fined around double the permit fee.

Only a limited number of drone permits are issued per day.

How to get back from Boracay to Caticlan Airport?

It’s easy. Just trace your steps back:

• Ride an e-trike to either Tambisaan or Cagban Port , whichever is operational at the time. If you’re coming from Station 2, it should be PHP 150 for a private ride.
• At the port, pay the terminal fee and boat fare , which cost PHP 150 and PHP 50 respectively. You’ll be given a boat card with a seat number.
• Board the assigned boat and find your seat on board . Travel time is 20 minutes.
• At Caticlan Jetty Port, find the tricycle terminal and ride one to Caticlan Airport . It should take just 2-3 minutes because the airport’s departure terminal is very close. If you don’t have heavy luggage in tow, you could even travel on foot to get there.

It just gets more complicated at night. If your flight is scheduled in the late evening or early morning, expect to wait longer at the Cagban/Tambisaan Port. Within these hours, boats to the mainland are few and far between. Below was the timetable when we visited in July 2023. This may have changed already.

That said, if there are enough passengers, the boat will leave as soon as it is full.

Bottom line, add plenty of time allowance when traveling back to the mainland at night.

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2024 1 5 – Removed confirmed hotel booking in the list of requirements to reflect new LGU update. 2023 11 20 – First uploaded

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A Guide to Vacationing in Boracay

On an island called Boracay — one of the more than 7,000 that make up the Philippines —travelers sun on powder-like white sand while scattered sailboats off the shore lean into the warm breeze. It’s not heaven, but it’s pretty close.

In fact, Boracay is just one of three islands that scored a spot on Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Islands list in 2017. Seekers of island paradises have not tired of the Philippines’ allure, and Boracay remains one of the country’s best-loved escapes.

Boracay is wild at heart, and is distinguished for its fun-loving social scene. The island is, consequently, a magnet for beach bums, backpackers, and party animals from all corners of the world.

There’s always some excuse to celebrate here, and even those who don’t come to party will find plenty in the way of amusement. For such a small island (just five and a half miles long), Boracay is an energetic place. From shopping to parasailing or jungle cruises on ATVs, to after-dark performances by fire dancers, there’s a reason Boracay has earned the nickname “the island that never sleeps.”

Here’s everything you need to know to plan a perfect vacation on Boracay — including how to get there, which beaches to visit, and where to pick up high-end souvenirs.

Getting to Boracay

Boracay is surrounded by hundreds of islands in the heart of the Philippines, and though the capital, Manila, isn’t really that far away, you’ll still need to take a plane to get here. All flights arrive at one of two airports: Kalibo (the bigger, more built-up international hub) and Caticlan (a smaller, regional airport that sits adjacent to the island).

Neither airport are actually on Boracay, however, so once you land you’ll need to catch a ferry from Caticlan Jetty Port . The journey lasts 15 minutes, and the whole thing costs $5 round-trip.

If that sounds like too much work, consider booking a room at a hotel that includes inter-island transfers. T+L favorite Shangri-La Boracay Resort & Spa, for example, shuttles guests via speedboat directly from Caticlan to the resort’s private jetty.

Picking the right beach

Every day of your vacation in Boracay will likely revolve around the beach. From lazy mornings spent floating in the crystal clear waters to the island-wide ritual of watching the sunset, life in Boracay simply happens on the beach. But each one has a distinct vibe.

Crowd-pleasing White Beach

Of the island’s 13 beaches, White Beach is easily the most famous. Spanning the island’s west coast, it covers two and a half miles, and is divided into three “stations.” Most of the island’s shopping malls, nightclubs, and hotels are concentrated here and, as a result, it’s quite a lively spot. Our favorite part? The wide, shallow sandbars that extend 200 feet from the shore, meaning you can wade out really far and still only be waist-deep in water.

Relaxed Yapak Beach

Also known as Puka Beach, this is the second largest beach on Boracay. Since it’s on the island’s northern, more exposed coast, the water gets a bit choppier. But Puka makes up for rough waves with its quiet, laid-back vibe. (Compared to White Beach, there are practically no nearby developments or hotels — hence, a less populated beach.) The beach’s name comes from the puka shells that wash up on the shore, making for a coarser texture on the soles of your feet. Pro tip: wear sandals, and pack a picnic lunch, since the restaurant selection here is limited.

Adventurous Bolabog Beach

On the east side of Boracay, Bolabog Beach is the must-visit spot for adventurous travelers. Best known as a destination for kiteboarders, there are numerous tour operators and outfitters ready to send you flying high into the air. At Greenyard , you’ll pay $140 for a 3-hour course that teaches you the basic setup and safety skills, how to launch from the water, and how to properly harness the wind’s power. For those interested in windsurfing, parasailing and other daredevil pursuits, there’s plenty of that available, too.

Coral-fringed Tambisaan Beach

If it’s snorkeling you’re after, head to Tambisaan Beach. In addition to being located at the island’s southern tip, away from the craziness of White Beach, it’s also home to the only true marine life on Boracay. There’s a rich coral garden less than 100 feet off the coast.

Shopping for dinner

Food is a big part of Filipino culture, and Boracay is no exception. Along the main stretch of White Beach, you’ll find countless street food carts, outdoor barbecue joints, and upscale restaurants that show off the country’s unique culinary influences. For something a little out of the ordinary, head to D’Talipapa, a bustling wet market on White Beach. Here, vendors show up each day with fresh-caught seafood, which can be purchased by the pound (bargaining for a lower price is all part of the fun), then brought to any of the surrounding restaurants and cooked to your liking.

Visiting during festival season

In case you hadn’t already heard, Boracay is a serious party destination. That may be most evident during LaBoracay — a celebration of Philippine Labor Day — which falls each year on May 1. Spanning the entire weekend, the lineup is a collection of all-night raves, concerts, regattas, and colorful events that take place across the island. May 1 also marks the official start to summer in the Philippines. Other festivals worth traveling for are Ati-Atihan in January (a traditional Filipino parade with street dancing and a feast) and the mesmerizing Dragonboat Festival in April.

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While only 7km tall and at its bikini line 500m wide, tiny Boracay is the Philippines' top tourist draw, fuelled by explosive growth and a tsunami of hype. The influx of visitors caused the Philippines government to temporarily close Boracay to tourists for six months. This 'rehabilitation' period, was used to restore the island to its former glory and it has since reopened with a limit on the number of daily visitors.The centre of the action is dreamy White Beach, a 4km, postcard-perfect stretch of sand lined from one end to the other with hotels, restaurants, bars and dive shops several blocks deep. The beach path is typically awash with visitors, including large groups of package tourists. The ocean is full of romantic paraws (an outrigger sailboat) giving rides; colourful parasails fill the air. After perfect sunsets, live music breaks out, and fire dancers twirl their batons.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

White Beach

With its glorious, powdered-sugar sand, White Beach is the centre of the action in Boracay and the only sight most visitors ever see. Beach locations are…

Mt Luho View Deck

Looming high above the east coast, this viewpoint has stunning views across the island, though the steps up were designed for giants. The lush cross…

Old bangka arrival point; now a geographic reference point.

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Boracay, Philippines

Paradise reborn.

I t had become known as “Paradise Lost,” or a “cesspool,” as former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte described it, after it was tainted by sewage. The once brilliant white sand and clear waters of Boracay Island were choking on the trash and traffic that comes from 2 million annual visitors. It reached a nadir in 2018, when Duterte closed down all tourism on the island for six months—an emergency Band-Aid for decades of ecological abuse.

Then the pandemic struck, and the Philippines closed its borders, halting even domestic tourism to Boracay. It took a severe toll on the local economy, but the silver lining was that this 4-sq.-mi. speck in the Visayas island chain had proper time to truly recover. As of February 2022, international visitors can finally revel in this revamped, recuperated, natural playground after what was effectively a three-year convalescence. Locals report the return of flora and fauna, like sea turtles, and hospitality has come back just as spectacularly. The luxurious Crimson Resort and Spa , originally opened in March 2018, offers 192 rooms including suites and villas, plus cascading infinity pools, and a private beach.

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Boracay Travel Guide: Experience the World’s Best Island

Hello, Boracay!

Hailed as one of the best islands in the world, the island paradise of Boracay is located in the Central Philippines province of Aklan, two kilometers north of the island of Panay. It is a 7 kilometer long island with about 3.5 kilometer stretch of perfectly fine white sand beach and a couple of other secluded beaches.

They say no other beach in the world can surpass its white and powdery sand, thus making it famous worldwide. Way back in 1980’s, Boracay was still a deserted island without commercial establishments and electricity. Two decades past, the island rapidly evolved to become the prime tourist destination of the country with the presence of numerous business establishments and modern infrastructures.

Boracay today is still reinventing and continue to evolve, but its timeless beauty and charm continue to prevail.

How to Get to Boracay Island

Via caticlan airport.

Godofredo P. Ramos Airport or simply Caticlan Airport is the nearest airport to Boracay.  Philippine Airlines,  Cebu Pacific , Philippines Air Asia, Skyjet, Air Juan and Air Swift connect Caticlan to Manila, Cebu, Cagayan de Oro, Clark, El Nido, Busuanga, Tagbilaran and Cuyo.

Via Kalibo Airport 

Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, Air Asia Philippines and Sky Jet have direct flights to Kalibo International Airport from Manila, Cebu, Clark, Davao, Busan, Incheon, Singapore, Pudong, Chongqinga and Kunming. From Kalibo, it is a two-hour ride to Caticlan Jetty Port. Look for vans outside Kalibo Airport, price ranges from P200 to P250.

Caticlan to Boracay

Caticlan uses two ports going to Boracay island. The Main Caticlan Jetty Port is being used all year round by fast crafts but trigger boats are only allowed during summer or dry months and when the western sea is calm. During monsoon season, when the western sea waves are strong, the trigger boats use Tabon Port.

The boat ride from Caticlan to Boracay takes around 10 minutes. Prepare P25 for the boat fare (P50 for the fast craft), P75 for environmental fee and P100 for the terminal fee. Boat trips start operating from 5AM up to around to 10PM. Boats dock at either Cagban Port on the southwest (when the western sea is calm) or at the Tambisaan Port in the southeast (when the western sea waves are strong).  From any of the ports, you can charter a tricycle to your hotel for at least P100 or you may opt to catch the public multicabs along the mani road that charge less (approximately P15).

By Roro (Land and Sea)

A cheaper alternative is to ride a 2Go RoRo ferry from Batangas Port directly to Caticlan Port. 2Go services the route with a trip daily (two trips on peak season). You can book your ferry from Batangas to Caticlan or vice versa below:

BOOK YOUR BUS FROM BATANGAS TO CATICLAN

Alternatively, you can also reach Caticlan from Batangas Port by following the old and inconvenient way of going there via boat-bus-but transfers: catch a RORO ferry (Montenegro Shipping Lines, Inc., Contact No: +63 043 723 7975 / +63 043 723 7598) to Calapan (2 hours); take a bus from Calapan to the Port of Roxas, Mindoro Oriental (3  to 4 hours); transfer to another RoRo ferry from Roxas Port ot Caticlan Port(4 to 5 hours).

If you want a lesser hassle, just ride the Ceres bus from Cubao to Caticlan. Bus fare is P920 (as of July 2013) inclusive of all ferry and terminal fees. Travel time takes at least 10 hours.

Where to Stay in Boracay

There are plenty of beaches in Boracay island, some of which are the Puka Beach, Baling Hai Beach and the most popular White Beach, where most tourists stay. If you are staying in White Beach on a tight budget, there are numerous cottages and rooms in Station 3, for as low as P500.00 per room during lean season. However, Lakwatsero prefers staying in La Carmela de Boracay or its sister hotel Boracay Courtyard , both in Station 2. They offer cheap hotel accommodations.

What to Do in Boracay

Boracay offers a wide range of activities suitable for most type of personalities.

• Bar hopping – with a variety of bars to choose from, having different themes, you will definitely find one that suits your liking
• Beach hopping – from vigorous White Beach to more tranquil Puka and Balang Hai Beach
• Island tour – explore the whole islands and its surroundings riding a banca
• Snorkeling/Scuba Diving – with plenty of diving and snorkeling sites, enjoy the rich marine life off the waters of Boracay
• Aquatic Sports – experience Banana Boat Ride, Fly Fish, Parasailing, Jetski and other aquatic sports and you will definitely enjoy the ride
• White Water Rafting/Kayaking – three hours away from Boracay is the Tibiao River in Antique where you can ride a kayak or a raft traversing with the rapids of the river

Hi! Nung nagpunta po ba kayo around september of 2013 malakas ang alon sa byahe ng bangka? I’d appreciate it if i get a reply. Thanks!

Nice article! I love Boracay because it’s like a city on the beach, you have everything you need and nature/beauty at your doorstep! 🙂 If you know where to go it’s easy to find peace as well.

What great information about such a beautiful place! For you backpackers looking for cheap lodging there are now places to stay for as low as 300p! Ridiculous right?? In dollar that may not seem like much but if your like me, every dollar saved is important! Another cool thing for you water sport lovers is that not is Boracay one of the best beaches in the world because of its pearly white beaches, but it is rated the number one spot in asia to kite surf! Try it out!

Hi! Just wanna ask. Do you think flights going to Boracay in early June would still be fully booked like in the peak season?

i realy like this blog! everytime i go for a travel i check this site first..haha

[…] the northernmost part of Bicolandia is an unknown paradise that can rival the white sand beach of Boracay and the serenity of Pagudpud, still virgin and unspoiled- the beautiful and enchanting islands of […]

[…] Foreigners outnumbered local tourists significantly on our estimate. Certainly, Malapascua is Boracay and Puerto Galera minus the crowd, the party and the chaos. It is probably how the two popular spots […]

[…] a leisurely stop at our restaurant’s bar, I appreciated Malapascua more. Perhaps, it was how Boracay or Puerto Galera looked like decades ago, and I am hoping that it stays as is on the decades to […]

Very Imformative!

[…] that spread across the Pacific. Some say that the place is like Coron or El Nido in Palawan and Boracay in Aklan combined. While I agree that the place reminded me of Coron with its white sand islands and […]

[…] Boracay Island | Lakwatsero […]

I love Boracay I could live there for years if someone would surport me LOL here are some of my Boracay photos to enjoy

http://101today.com/travel/index.php/topic,32.0.html

hello.. kelangan bah talaga na mag make ng reservations to any resort before departure time or ok lang ba nag mag walk-in during lean season para makahaggle?? thnx…

better of course to have reservation, they have lower rates during low season afterall…

hey guys! thanks for the info, we’re going to bora this coming april, please email me ( [email protected] ) the prizes of the Banana Boat Ride, Fly Fish, Parasailing, Jetski and other aquatic sports. Thanks!

* Island tour: P1200.00-P1500.00 (~$25-$30) * Banana boat ride, 15 mins: P250.00/pax (~$6) – minimum of 5 pax * Fly fish, 15 mins: P600.00/pax (~$14) – minimum of 3 pax * Parasailing, 15 mins: P2,500.00 (~$58) * Jetski, 30 mins: P2,000.00 (~$47) / 60 mins: P3,500.00 (~$81) * Tube ride, water ski, wake board, 15 mins: P1,500.00 (~$35) / 30 mins: P2,500.00 (~$58) / 60 mins: P3,800.00 (~88) * Speed boat rental, 60 mins: P3,500.00 (~$81)

[…] Boracay is indeed a paradise. With fine white sand beach and blue water as backdraft, the place is haven for those who like sea sports, swimming, sun bathing (if you like a tan), snorkeling and scuba diving not to mention island hopping. It is also a tropical party place with its cozy bars and restaurants. So for a typical tourist, those are the activities waiting for you. […]

[…] hours away from the famous Boracay is a quiet town of Tibiao, a fourth class municipality in the heart of the provice of Antique. With […]

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Can Boracay Beat Overtourism?

Called one of the world’s best islands, the Philippine resort was closed by the government for six months and reopened with a cap on visitors. Now, with travelers coming back, will it continue to hold the line?

Sunset on Boracay’s White Beach feels lively, but some worry it will tip back into being overcrowded. Credit... Chang W. Lee/The New York Times

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By Patrick Scott

• April 11, 2023

When the Philippine island of Boracay was in the rogues’ gallery of destinations marred by overtourism, large sections of its 2.5-mile main White Beach were jammed with thousands of visitors and long trains of beach beds and umbrellas. Fleets of boats motored up to the sand’s edge, and multitudes of peddlers sold trips and trinkets and gave massages, braided hair and applied henna tattoos right on the beach.

At night, a cacophony of music spilled from a phalanx of makeshift dining rooms in the sand, couches and cabanas unfurled toward the water, and fire spinners filled the air with flames and fumes.

Oil from the boats, litter from the beach and sewage illegally piped into the sea polluted the waters.

Early in 2018, however, then-President Rodrigo Duterte — known for his radical approaches — declared Boracay a “cesspool” and abruptly shut it down from April to October.

The government demolished or chopped off sections of several hundred hotels, restaurants and other businesses that had been built too close to the water and in forests and wetlands. It uprooted dozens of illegal sewer pipes along the beaches and upgraded the sewer system. It widened the notoriously clogged narrow roads and put in sidewalks. It devised a new promotion of Boracay as a sustainable ecotourism island rather than a 24/7 party ‌hot spot.

And in one of the rarest and most extreme responses to unbridled tourism growth, the national task force created to oversee the island imposed a limit on the number of visitors, setting the carrying capacity at 6,400 arrivals per day, or 19,215 tourists at any given time.

These days, the captivating White Beach is an open expanse of pristine sand, motorboats are confined to two floating docks and the aquamarine water has been cleaned up. Signs up and down the beach declare: NO STRUCTURES AND FURNITURE, NO DRINKING OF ALCOHOL, NO FIRE DANCING.

On a mid-February night, Tyler O’Dowd was part of a steady stream of tourists strolling on the sandy path up from the beach, pointing out to his ‌fiancée where the action used to be‌. The couple, on a four-day trip to celebrate Mr. O’Dowd’s 38th birthday, said they wouldn’t mind dining in the sand or a nightlife spot or two on the beach. Still, they said, they preferred the new vibe.

“I was younger back then so I liked the party lifestyle,” said Mr. O’Dowd, an American teacher living in Manila, referring to his first visit, in 2013. “Now I’m older so I do enjoy this mellowness.”

Few ‌hot spots across the globe have implemented caps on the number of visitors long-term, so it’s an open question as to whether this little island in the central Philippines, about an hour south of Manila by plane, can find a real and lasting solution to overtourism.

‌Islanders and local business owners said in interviews that they were generally pleased with the improvements to Boracay’s beaches and roads. But there was still debate over the carrying capacity.

Although a resolution by the national task force capped visitors, there was no provision for enforcement. So no one is in charge of limiting arrivals — not the airlines, not the boats that bring tourists from the main island of Panay, not the hotels on the island. According to the Malay-Boracay Tourism Office’s monthly tally of visitors, the number exceeded the cap in busy spring months in 2019 and again last spring. That prompted a new carrying capacity study by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (D.E.N.R.), which led the national task force, though its results have not yet been released.

In the coming months, the cap will surely be tested again. Flights are rapidly increasing at the nearby airports of Kalibo and Caticlan. And tourists from China and Korea — the biggest sources of visitors, accounting for 40 percent of tourists before the pandemic — are poised to return in the coming months.

What’s more, the national task force was dissolved in June 2022, and oversight of the island was returned to local government officials, some of whom want to lift some of the restrictions.

Dante Pagsuguiron, the longest-serving member of the Malay municipal council that includes Boracay, said in an interview in February that he’s opposed to any capacity cap and that the island could support triple the current 14,000 government-accredited hotel rooms. He supports bringing back beach beds and limited dining on the beach.

“To me, if there’s tourists coming to Boracay, regardless of the numbers, then we need to accept them,” Mr. Pagsuguiron said.

It’s unclear what will happen next. Mr. Pagsuguiron and others speculated that the D.E.N.R. study will raise the arrivals cap by 25 percent to 40 percent, allowing for up to 9,000 arrivals a day. The D.E.N.R. did not respond to multiple requests for comment.

In March the governor of the Aklan province that includes Boracay created a new oversight body for the island, the Boracay-Caticlan Sustainable Development Council, to sustain the gains of the rehabilitation. According to the province administrator, Selwyn Ibarreta, the new council has agreed that an independent entity should conduct another carrying capacity study.

Rehabilitation, then Covid

Boracay first became popular in the 1970s, when it appeared in a German guidebook and was the location of the war movie “Too Late the Hero.” By the 1990s, more than 100,000 backpackers and adventurers annually were visiting its beaches and forested hills. Locals opened dive shops, restaurants, ‌guesthouses and hotels. Big investors followed with resorts like the Shangri-La in private coves. Each year, it seemed, Boracay kept landing on best beaches and top islands lists. Tourism surged, nearing 1 million visitors in 2011 and double that by 2017.

Then came the abrupt shutdown, known as the rehabilitation.

Business owners were left without income, workers scrambled to find jobs and long-planned weddings and vacations were upended. Locals say the White Beach looked like a war zone from all the demolition. Like many businesses on the north end of the beach, the BAMA grill had to hack off a large beachfront section of its building to comply with the 33-yard setback from the high tide, and it had to knock off five inches of its street-side facade to make way for the road widening.

After six months, even though the demolition and road work was far from completed, the island ‌reopened to tourists in late October 2018. Arrivals the next year jumped back ‌to 2 million, just over half of them foreigners, but then evaporated again in early 2020 with the onslaught of Covid-19.

Boracay remained closed to foreigners during the pandemic for two years until early 2022, devastating the local economy. ‌

Many islands are especially susceptible to overtourism because of their fixed space and limited options for economic development. One of the key issues facing destinations is that “almost everyone making money out of tourists wants more of them and is not prepared to limit, let alone reduce, numbers,” according to “Overcoming Overtourism: A Review of Failure,” a 2022 report by the‌ academics and tourism experts Rachel Dodds and Richard Butler that looks at dozens of destinations around the world, ‌including Boracay‌.

“Wishful thinking about a smaller, greener tourism industry operating on a ‌noncapitalistic framework is likely to remain just that,” they conclude, “misplaced optimism.”

There is still some hope, they said in an email exchange. “Tourism is in a similar situation to climate change,” Dr. Butler wrote. “A lot of people agree there are problems, but few have realistic, acceptable (to most people) solutions, so a major change in general attitudes is needed.”

Smooth new roads and a cleaned-up beach

On a visit in mid-February, when daily arrivals averaged 5,750, the island felt pleasantly crowded, and the vast majority of tourists were Filipino. ‌

Boracay is just over 4 miles long and shaped like a dog bone, with the densest development along and behind the White Beach‌, which stretches 2.5 miles ‌along the west coast‌. White Beach is divided into three‌ main areas, known as stations, after the original boat landings. Development along the beach is agreeably low slung, with the height of buildings limited to three stories on the seafront. The other most popular sand-and-sea spots are on the east coast on Bulabog, one of the country’s top kitesurfing bays, and on the hilly north at Diniwid and Puka beaches.

The vibe on the island fluctuates ‌depending on where you are: ‌It’s serene on the sun-baked, lightly populated southernmost Station 3‌ section. It’s hectic in the center at Station 2, which is crammed with resorts and the D’Mall open-air shopping and dining complex. ‌And then it’s picturesque on the northern end at Station 1, with a few hundred people strolling the sand at sunset watching little sailboats glide across the flat blue sea.

The smooth, new road with brick sidewalks running up the spine of the island bustles with families, couples and groups of friends and a steady convoy of electric, three-wheeled motorbike buggies. But the road ‌is also blighted with dingy, shuttered restaurants and intermittent metal walls hiding abandoned or demolished buildings.

On the White Beach at night, I could enjoy myriad international cuisines and listen to live music ranging from Queen covers to duos crooning Adele‌. I was also repeatedly offered menus by polite waiters and propositioned by male and female prostitutes: “Hi, sir. Massage?”

‌The seven hotels of one of the island’s biggest resort chains, the Henann Group , ‌ were more than 80 percent full in February, mostly with Filipinos, said Dindo Salazar, a vice president of Henann’s operations on Boracay. He was expecting the return of Chinese tourists in the second quarter and saw a conundrum in carrying capacity: If local officials allow too many people on the island, the worry is that the national government could step back in and take over, he said.

Mr. Salazar is also the chairman of the Boracay Foundation, a tourism business group, which objected to the 2018 closure and capacity limit. The Foundation argued that only owners who violated the setback and sewer rules should be penalized and that the 14,000 government-approved hotels could accommodate thousands more tourists than the 19,215 limit set by the task force.

In the end, Mr. Salazar said, the closure was good for the island, because local laws that were long flouted were being enforced, including the beach setback, sewer hookups and a ban on single-use plastics.

“There was a free-for-all to get as many on the island without regard to impact,” Mr. Salazar said, “and now there is control.”

Part of the island’s plan to alleviate overcrowding is to make other parts of Boracay besides White Beach more attractive to visitors. At the mile-long Bulabog Beach on the east coast, the sole resort, Aqua Boracay, was considering starting a yacht service to bring guests directly to the bay, said Krista Tudtud, a sales and marketing manager.

“What we are trying to do here is to disperse the crowd, because most of the people, when they say Boracay, the only thing that they remember is the White Beach,” Ms. Tudtud said as scores of arcing kite surfers crisscrossed the clear shallow bay. “But there’s also a hidden gem on this side that we want to introduce to guests.”

Just down the new brick promenade, surfers traded stories at Habagat Kitebording’s open-air bar. The German owner, Winnie Levai, opened the first kiting school on the island in 2002, and within a few years the sport took off with about 10 schools, he said.

In 2018, his business was among the dozens on Bulabog targeted to be partly or entirely torn down. “I had all the legal papers to build,” he said. “So it was a kind of shock.”

Mr. Levai had to demolish his school and restaurant in the sand and move them back at a cost of $200,000, though his 10-room hotel was outside the 33-yard buffer. He said he’s pleased with the brick walkway and wider road out back, but ‌said that five years on, the rehabilitation and the quest to find the right balance of tourists on the little island are ongoing.

“My hope is that they do a good job, keep going on the situation and that they can finish it in a proper way,” ‌he said.

Patrick Scott writes frequently for Travel. Follow him on Instagram: @patrickrobertscott

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Boracay: The Ultimate Tropical Island

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Have you ever sat to the ultimate healthy meal, only to find yourself gazing at the unopened bag of Sour Patch Kids in your kitchen?

You made yourself a salad — an exceptionally healthy one. It’s vegan, gluten-free, has seasoned tofu for protein and even a good dose of goji berries and various nuts and seeds loaded with antioxidants.

You’re about to serve yourself — and then that bag of Sour Patch Kids catches your eye. It’s filled with Sour Patch Kids. And right next to it is a package of peanut butter M&Ms.

You know you should eat your salad like a proper person…but you really, really want that candy. And it wouldn’t be so bad to eat it. Just for one meal.

Boracay is candy in destination form.

With only two weeks allotted to explore the Philippines before heading on to Hong Kong and back to the US, my time was limited. My original plans for the Philippines had been to head up through North Luzon to see the UNESCO-listed rice terraces along with the hanging coffins of Sagada.

This region shows off some of the Philippines’ natural and cultural beauty, and I wanted to explore it — it seemed like the “smart” thing to do.

That said…it wouldn’t be the smoothest journey. It would take two overnight buses there and back, plus some crazy bus journeys along cliffs, very basic guesthouses, spotty connectivity…a region that I’d love to visit at the right time. But this wasn’t the right time. I had too much work to do and not enough energy to give this trip the attention it deserved.

Sabrina , my Philippines-expert friend, nearly exploded when I told her my plans. “You can’t go to the Philippines and not see a single beach!” she admonished me. “The beaches are the best part! Go to Boracay.”

That was all the convincing I needed. I booked tickets right away.

Getting to Know Boracay

Boracay is a tiny island in the Visayas region of the central Philippines. As the most popular travel destination in the Philippines, it’s far from undiscovered — the island absolutely teems with tourists, especially Filipinos, Koreans, and Chinese.

White Beach is the main hub of the island, stretching along the west coast, and it’s often cited as one of the world’s best beaches. And with a beach path running parallel to the shore, you could spend your whole stay on Boracay on sand — I know I nearly did!

White Beach is divided into three sections named after the former boat stations: Station 1, furthest north, is home to luxury resorts. Station 2, in the middle, is a huge commercial hub and home to tons of shops, restaurants, and hotels, as well as DMall, a massive shopping complex.

Station 3, furthest south, is much quieter and more relaxed. Just south of Station 3 is Angol, an even more chilled out neighborhood. Some people say that Angol is the only remnant of the “Old Boracay” before it got so developed.

There are a few other beaches — Bulabog Beach in the east is popular with the kitesurfing/windsurfing crowd in high season, and secluded Puka Beach in the north is a big day trip destination.

As for me, I loved the Station 3/Angol region and spent the bulk of my time there, but would often head up to Station 2 for dinner and drinks.

Boracay Life

Wake up, sit on the beach, get brunch, get lunch, read, swim a little bit. Watch the sunset, get dinner, maybe get a drink or two. That’s all you have to know.

The thing about Boracay is that the beach here is so great — the sand so white and fine, the beachfront so long, the landscape so beautiful, the water so warm and turquoise — that you can do nothing else and still feel entirely accomplished.

Also: eat mangos day and night. I swear that the Philippines is home to the sweetest, juiciest mangos in the world. I had mango juice, mango shakes, mango lassis, even a mango set on fire with burning cognac and topped with ice cream!

The World’s Best Sunsets

Back in the day, I thought that Koh Lanta was home to the world’s best sunsets. While I’ve seen some amazing sunsets on Lanta, quite frankly, they didn’t hold a candle to what I saw on Boracay.

On my third night on Boracay, I saw what was indisputably the best sunset of my life. My photos don’t remotely capture how incredible it was, but here are a few shots of it anyway.

The Philippines are OPEN FOR TRAVEL!

When I arrived in Manila, I got a tweet from one of my readers: “Must be crazy with the typhoon damage!”

“Not at all,” I replied. “Manila’s fine. The typhoon was nowhere near here.”

I thought it was a fluke — but then I got another message saying the same thing. And another. Many people thought that the Philippines was destroyed by Typhoon Haiyan (also known as Yolanda) in November 2013.

The truth: most of the Philippines was either unaffected or mostly unaffected by the typhoon. The city of Tacloban on the island of Leyte was hit the worst, and the city is still in very rough shape today. Volunteers are still working on rebuilding Tacloban.

But you know where was mostly unaffected by the typhoon and is functioning as normal today? Manila. North Luzon. Palawan. Bohol. Cebu. Negros. Malapascua. Sirgao. Siquijor. Camiguin. Most if not all of the major tourist hotspots.

And, of course, that includes Boracay. “All we got was a power outage and a new layer of white sand on everything,” one local told me. “It looked beautiful.”

Please don’t write off the Philippines. The small businesses on these islands are struggling due to the Philippines’ PR problem, and they need your tourism now more than ever.  The pictures in this post are from an incredibly developed island. The less-developed islands are even more pristine and gorgeous. And they are waiting for you.

Essential Info: To get to Boracay island, you can fly to either Caticlan or Kalibo, which are both on the island of Panay in the Philippines. Caticlan Airport is right by the ferry to Boracay; Kalibo is a 90-minute drive away (and tends to have cheaper flights to more destinations). The ferry takes 15 minutes. I stayed at a few different guesthouses, but the only one that I would recommend is Gracia’s Inn in Station 3. It has no website and is hard to find (on Google Maps it looks like it’s on “Angol Road,” which appears to actually be an alley), so ask around. I paid 1000 PHP ($22) per night for a private room with a double bed during Chinese New Year (peak rates). No wifi, and 3G did not work inside the room (something that I found throughout the Philippines), but it was clean and comfortable. You can find other hotels in Boracay here . In Station 2, I highly recommend CYMA for excellent Greek food (get the flaming cheese, mussels and flaming mango!) and Nigi Nigi Nu Noos for drinks (their Boracay Colada is the best pina colada I’ve ever had!). In the Station 3/Angol neighborhood, Cowboy Cucina was the most reliable wifi I found (though far from ideal), and they had great pizza and lattes. Be sure to get travel insurance before you visit Boracay. I never travel without it and always use World Nomads.

Is Boracay your kind of tropical island?

92 thoughts on “boracay: the ultimate tropical island”.

I can only imagine how incredible that sunset was from your photos! They are stunning enough! Boracay must be beautiful. And the fact that you experienced no problems in the aftermath of the typhoon just shows how we don’t always see the full picture in mainstream media. That’s why blogs have so much use for trip planning – we can read about what’s really happening and find out which particular parts of a country might be just fine to visit, rather than writing the entire place off.

Yes sunsets are super amaze in Boracay! I live there for 4 months last year and I love it. I always roll my eyes when bloggers/travelers who are traveling in SEA are posting pics of their “best sunsets ever” and know that they haven’t seen the ones in Boracay yet. I am so happy you enjoyed your time in Boracay and in the Philippines in general. We need more bloggers/travellers to talk more about the Philippines and not just Thailand all the time 😀

After seeing what I saw in the Philippines, I’m shocked that it isn’t more popular. Boracay was better than any beach I saw in Thailand, and the Philippines have far more unknown beaches at a lower price point.

I’d say I agree. Boracay is indeed beautiful. When I was still living in the Philippines – we never missed a summer in Boracay. My cousins and I always booked the trip ahead of time. Its our summer bonding. We stay up to watch for the sunrise and then sunset afterwards. Not only that its stunning and a must tourist destination – but who could ever say NO to the parties. I miss my hometown. You should also check Puerto Gallera and Palawan.

Did you dot he mermaid swim, Kate? I’m looking forward to your report!

I did not, Liv — I wish I did! Had soooo much work to do while I was in Boracay.

Wow looks so beautiful! Love your pictures and it sounds like this is a place I need to visit.

P.S. I told my sister about your website and I’m pretty sure she is in love. She now wants to travel the world by herself! 🙂

Aww, thanks so much, Michelle! And your sister too!

WOW at this point Koh Lanta is the most beautiful sunset I’ve seen so maybe I need to head here! THose photos are stunning

Great post on one of my favourite beach destinations in the world! I had written a similar post in the past about Boracay, you can check it out here:

http://cruzworldtravels.blogspot.com.au/2013/11/boracay-beach-resort-station-1.html

Oh my God, it looks amazing.

Definitely going on my “next time” list for Southeast Asia!!!

OMG your pictures made me so homesick. I grew up in Manila and spent several summers vacationing in Bora (as locals like to call it). Even after moving to South Florida, the beaches here don’t hold a candle to Boracay. Glad you visited the Philippines… I always look to your blog for travel inspiration. Have fun in NoLa. That’s another one of my fave travel spots.

Manila people like to call it ‘Bora’

Boracay locals have a very active advocacy group: Boracay Please, Not Bora.

We like to encourage people to call the island by its name to avoid confusion with other islands in the world

I thought about traveling to the Philippines and especially Boracay this summer, but then changed my mind to visit Thailand and Indonesia on my first trip to Southeast Asia instead – but your post and your pictures almost make me regret that decision! 🙂

Ah, I miss Boracay. It’s one of my fave islands in the world. Those sunsets are fantastic, as is the fresh seafood at restaurants with toes in the sand

It must have been so much more pristine back when you guys were there!

Kate… You writing is clearly progressing and just getting better and better. That intro with the candy! Good work – you’re rockin it! Keep kickin ass!

P.S. Those sunset pictures are unreal.

Thanks so much, Eric!

I was in Boracay in 2011 and loved it, in my top 3 islands I think. It was touristy but had a great vibe and of course, stunning beaches! Stayed in a bungalow called Friends Hostel, one of the best places i have stayed in my travels.

Was this your second visit to Boracay Kate? As I’m pretty sure I read that you’ve been before. If so, has it changed much in the past few years?

Also interested to know how it compares to other islands in the Philippines as I’m planning on going in the next few years.

This was my first visit. Sabrina, who I mentioned and linked to earlier, has traveled to Boracay a few times and has been all over the Philippines. She’s a great resource for that.

That last photo of the sunset?! DAMN. If that doesn’t do justice to what the sunset actually looked like…it must have been phenomenal. 🙂

I sort of love that you skipped the UNESCO site for the beach. Sometimes you just have to go for the candy! Looks like some amaaazing candy too.

HA. Well, when you put it like that…

The sunset looks amazing! The Phillipines hasn’t really been a destination on my radar but that ought to change pronto. Thanks for sharing Kate!

I love Boracay! I first went in 1996 when I was 14 (family had just moved to Manila) and there were only about 10 guest houses there! Visitors still got dropped off at their required stations in the traditional “bancas” and you had to wade through the shallow waters with your bag on your head to get to the shore. Nigi Nigi Noo Nus was already there, though!!

I have been lucky enough to return every few years and even though it has become more commercial every time, it is still one of my favourite beach holiday destinations! There are actually more beautiful beaches in the Philippines and yes, it´s touristy, but Boracay is one of the few places where you can have it all: a beautiful beach stay, outdoorsy activities, great selection of accommodation and restaurants to fit any budget and really good night-life that hasn´t yet become tacky.

I hope you get to return to the Phils soon, and discover more of the country!

WOW. Only 10 guesthouses in 1996? They must have built like mad!

It looks idyllic! I’d heard it was a crazy party town, which is often a little off putting for a relaxing vacation but after reading this I definitely want to visit next time I head to the Philippines.

It is a crazy party area — around Station 2 and D’Mall. The southern part by Station 3 and Angol is much quieter and more peaceful.

Boracay is definitely a beautiful piece of nature. The sunsets are magnificent as you said. Even I am curious to taste the mangoes. 🙂

Oh, once you have the mangoes, they will ruin you forever!! I haven’t had any since Boracay and I don’t know if I ever can again…

Wow! Usually photographs do a horrible job of capturing sunsets but yours actually gives a glimpse of how impressive it really was. Definitely sounds like an indulging place to visit 🙂

I appreciate that, Chantae! Thank you.

Wow Kate! This place is beautiful and those sunset are gorgeous. I had never heard of it before I read you were visiting. It so close to my in Sydney I might just have to pop on over there at some point, even if it is a bit of a trek once you get to the Philippines. Well worth it by the looks of it.

You know, it’s actually incredibly easy from Manila — just hop a flight to either Caticlan (easiest) or Kalibo (usually a tad cheaper) and you’ll be taken straight to Boracay.

Mmmm looks divine! And now I feel like eating sour patch kids and mangoes …

I would love to taste all the mango variations! Have you been to the Seychelles already? This was the most stunning place regarding beach and sunset for me.

Oh, if ONLY I could visit the Seychelles…it looks so beautiful there!

Ah! I can’t wait to go here… The Philippines is certainly one of the next places on the list. I think it’s sometimes better to go after natural disasters because not as many people are there! I guess it can be a good thing for travelers. Looks beautiful Kate!

Looking really nice! Would love to escape there right now 🙂

The World’s Best??! Looks absolutely gorgeous. Sometimes you just need a trip where your only agenda is to relax, eat, drink, and sleep 🙂

Honored to be the mentioned as the Philippines-expert friend lol 😉

I’m happy you had a great time in Boracay, this place is kinda magical, isn’t it? Did you had a chance to see the spider house?

I’m already 2 months in the Philippines and don’t want to leave. Next time discover the south, Mindanao is incredibly beautiful and far away from any tourism.

We’re heading to Boracay in April, full 3 weeks, just relaxing and working, I’m so looking forward to return to Boracay after more than a year.

I hope to welcome you soon again here in the Philippines, who knows, I might be still here… Hugs from Cebu 🙂

Thanks for giving me the kick in the pants I needed! 🙂 Hopefully we’ll meet up again in the Philippines sometime!

Boracay looks lovely! One of our friends went to Boracay for his honeymoon in Jan 2014.

I suddenly missed Boracay! Amazing sunsets indeed.

Thank you for promoting the Philippines Kate!

Safe travels always. 🙂

Have heard, read and saw (pictures) so much about Boracay. Would definitely love to visit one of these days! Oh, did I mention I LOVE mangoes too 🙂

First of all, I want your life. I just stumbled on your blog while trying to figure out credit card, student loan debt, and not going crazy from being stuck living in the same place for the last four years (even if that place is Japan).

I went to the Philippines to visit my bf’s family and didn’t get a chance to go to any beaches there. Hopefully I’ll get to go next time we visit. I met someone a few days ago who is heading to Manila next week for only two days. When I asked why he wasn’t going longer he had said because of the typhoon. I was surprised that, like you said, everyone seems to think that the Philippines has been completely destroyed. Everyone in Manila was going about their business like nothing at happened. It actually annoyed me a bit, especially after going to Leyte (where my bf is from) and seeing the damage and then back to Manila to see people acting like nothing happened. But I suppose it was the same way after the tsunami and earthquake in Northern Japan. The tourism is finally picking up again this year after three years of people being afraid of the radiation.

Safe travels and next time you’re in the Philippines, check out Biliran off of Leyte or Bantayan near Cebu, I’ve heard both places are beautiful and need the tourism more than ever now.

It’s really sad because a lot of people are suffering economically post-typhoon. What they NEED is tourism.

Seems absolutely gorgeous! Those white sands and the crystal clear waters are a dream, and those sunsets complete all that is needed for a complete soul-therapy!!

Boracay is #1 at the top of my Phillipines to-do list!

Isn’t it amazing how peoples’ minds work when it comes to disasters. It can be very hard for people to grasp the geography of a location they are not familiar with, and they can just write off an entire region based on a news report.

When I moved to Thailand in 2005 I was staying in Chiang Rai – you can’t get much further away from the tsunami zone than that (I was 45 minutes from the border of Myanmar, for crying out loud). Yet the day after the tsunami I had my co-workers coming to me begging to reconsider moving to Thailand. It was so hard to explain that not only was most of Thailand perfectly safe, but that these events are rare, I was far from the ocean (a wave would have to be very big indeed to reach that far inland or that altitude), and that, more importantly, the locals both in and out of the affected zone now RELIED UPON people coming to give them all the help they could get – both practically, and through their tourist dollars.

WOW. That’s crazy, Karyn, and yet I can picture that perfectly. That’s like people freaked out if you got a job in Chicago after Hurricane Katrina.

Wow, are those unretouched?!

My favourite sunsets were probably in Santorini, though there was a pretty spectacular one toward the end of our time volunteering in Italy

Retouched, but gently retouched. Nothing too crazy. 🙂

Yes, please! That looks amazing. This is always the time of year I am most craving some quality beach time. Currently, I just want to live full time on a beach and spend my weekends paddle boarding. Have you paddle boarded?

I paddle-boarded in South Africa and LOVED it. I need to get back on a board soon.

Kate, I just went to Boracay Island (working on a set of posts for it as well, funnily enough!) and LOVED IT! The Filipino people are some of the nicest people in the world! We stayed closer to Station 1 and I actually loved how peaceful it was, although the beaches weren’t as stunning as Station 3 🙂

I used to live in Manila when I was a kid, about 14 years ago. We used to go to Boracay all the time and I have so many incredible memories from there. Even now I can remember a the amazing sunsets! In fact, we used to stay at nigi nigi nu noos! I graduate University this year and I’m planning to spend 4 months travellind SE asia early next year; I can’t wait to go back to Boracay! It will certainly be very nostalgic, I just hope it hasn’t changed too much. It’s great to read that people are still loving Boracay and that its still a wonderful beach.

Awesome to see more endorsements for the Philippines – in my opinion, the most underrated country in Asia. Sunsets on Boracay are certainly magical, but #1 for me is still Kota Kinabalu. Just breathtaking.

So glad you enjoyed the Phils!

It was my first time going to Boracay this year for #Laboracay and man, the party scene was out of this world! I’ve never seen so much people on the beach partying although I really expected it that why that’s why one of my requirements was that I should have a hotel that’s away from the noise after all the partying. The hotel that I chose was 7stones Boracay. It was a little far from station 1 but I think that it really fulfilled my requirements.

Just message me if you wanna get in touch!

Kate this is some great information! Seems like you definitely enjoyed your stay on Boracay! I totally agree on your love for the Philippine mango too. They have to be the sweetest, smoothest mango’s I’ve ever eaten! The mango’s near and around Boracay all come from an Island called Guimaras! If you’re like me and can’t get enough of the heavenly mango’s I would suggest going to the Guimaras Mango Festival. It would be the most delicious stay of your entire life eating all sorts of amazing mango recipes! Though a bit of a drive from Boracay (6hrs), it is totally worth it. They even have all sorts of resorts and some great day spots like caves and waterfalls.

Hi Kate, thanks for visiting my country and enjoying your stay in the most popular beach in all of 7,100 islands. It will please you to know that Boracay is currently ranked by TripAdvisor as 19 in the Top 25 best beaches in the world and number 1 in the Top 25 Best Beaches of Asia in 2014. That said, with the number of islands we have, many hidden paradise and stunning but undeveloped beaches are waiting to be discovered. I have been blogging about a few best ones in our part of the islands. You would love them as well.

May I proudly share my photo of Boracay waters as recent cover of Silkair’s inflight mag? I agree with the most spectacular sunset scenes, you just can’t get enough of the sight. Do come back and explore more of the Philippines.

http://kodakerdabawenya.com/2014/04/09/my-aerial-photo-on-silkwinds-cover/

That is a BEAUTIFUL picture, Jojie. Nice job!

Thank you, hugs to you and keep safe in your travels as well. 🙂

Great post! Boracay is indeed one of the best attractions in the Philippines. However, I was looking at your blog for other attractions like Palawan, Cebu, Davao, Bohol and the rest but found none. Hope you could check out these spots as well.

Thanks for this writing this post! Carpe diem!

I absolutely hope to! 🙂

We’re headed to the Philippines in October and just came across this article on Boracay. Sounds amazing and we’re adding it to our list! I have seen some amazing sunset photos and we can’t wait to visit.

What a great post Kate.. I really love the sunset in Boracay it was breathtaking. and you will enjoy Boracay in so many ways. Im a party person, so Boracay just had a perfect night life I ever experienced in my life 🙂 but I always look for a peaceful place to rest and relax, and The Orient Beach Boracay is the perfect place I find.. It was so peaceful, relaxing and really had a great breakfast.. it was also affordable too.. I can say that it really made my vacation special. You gotta check it out guys! Cant wait for my next visit in Boracay. So excited! 🙂

its look like Mauritius island they are so luck to live there 🙂

Thankyou for sharing your experience at the Philippines. I personally haven’t been to Boracay myself, nor do I live in the Philippines, but I’m glad to hear that it looks like you’ve hit a jackpot of a destination. Happy travels! 🙂

Great info, glad to hear that as a seasoned traveler you enjoyed it. I’ve been to a few places in the Philippines including Palawan (amazing!!) but haven’t yet been to Boracay. Just booked tickets to go for a week in January.. we decided on Boracay over Langkawi in Malaysia. Have you been there at all? Of course I’ll be blogging my whole trip 🙂

I haven’t been to Langkawi, but I hope you have a fabulous time in Boracay! Go to my suggested places in the post!

Hi Erika. I am in Boracay right now and I was in Langkawi 3 years ago for 10 days for a visa extension. Boracay is a zillion times better than Langkawi. Langkawi is a duty free island, that’s the only good thing because booze is cheap (in Malaysia booze is quite expensive if you are on a lolowudget).

Amazing, never heard of it but the pics look amazing!

I was in Boracay during Typhoon Yolanda and also during the latest one (I forgot its name). The latest one was very hyped up and all we experienced was a puff of wind, nothing extreme. Yolanda knocked out power for a week though and internet for 3 weeks.

Anyway, life goes on 🙂

Boracay has a reputation of being crowded but when you know where to go (and when to go) then you can totally avoid the crows when you want peace. I love the place myself, and have been living there for the last 3 years.

What a great article! Philippines is really gifted with natural wonders and scenic places that is just waiting to be discovered. The country is really easy to travel with the opening of more routes going in from all over the world. As 2015 is now tagged as the Visit The Philippines year, we are expecting more people being drawn to the simple piece of paradise on earth.

Every island in the country is indeed worth a visit but on top of everyone’s mind is Boracay. I couldn’t agree more as Boracay is e\very tourist (and traveler) friendly! From the locals, vendors down to the visitors, you’ll get loads of smiles and nods on a single day! Strolling along the white sand beach is a must and just take in the serendipity of being in one of the most beautiful places on earth. Different types of food is abundant so one should not worry about being hungry.

Totally agree with you that one of the best sunsets in the world can be found in Boracay! Breathtaking and truly a mother nature’s piece of art! Glad you shared it here with that magnificent shot!

Boracay is probably my favorite place on earth, and I’ve done Thai beaches and Bali. I’ve gone to Boracay more than 20 times and have made many friends there. The vibe, sand, sun and fun are just overwhelming in a great way. The sunset, GOSH, I can’t express in words how much I love it, and now that I have a baby daughter, I want to show her the beauty of that island.

Alas, the pace of development and influx of tourists could be the ruin of that wonderful island. First, El Nido is named the best beach of the Phils, not Boracay, but the former is hard to get to but hopefully completion of the San Vicente airport in Palawan will fix that (whenever that happens).

I once stayed nearly four weeks in Boracay but it was the rainy season in July and August, and I don’t recommend going there at that time, though you might luck out and get a few sunny days. You might also avoid Boracay in peak season like around Christmas, New Year’s or Chinese New Year because prices shoot up and the crowds multiply.

A confession from a Filipino: I haven’t been to Boracay so it’s definitely in my bucket list. I’ve heard so much about it and I’m really envious of my friends who have gone there already. I hope that next year, I’d be able to go and experience all the good things that Boracay has to offer. Any here can recommend when is the best time to visit and where to stay? TIA.

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Boracay is one of the ‘World’s Greatest Places of 2022,’ according to TIME

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This is AI generated summarization, which may have errors. For context, always refer to the full article.

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MANILA, Philippines – The beautiful island of Boracay has been named as one of the World’s Greatest Places of 2022, according to the prestigious yearly list of international magazine TIME.

The list features 50 tourist spots from all over the world. Alongside São Paulo, Bali, and other well-known attractions, Boracay was hailed as a “Paradise Reborn.”

The popular Aklan island is endorsed by local and foreign tourists as one of the best beaches in the world, due to its white sand beaches and crystal blue waters. On top of that, the island is also filled with a variety of restaurants, hotels, and bars that would be perfect for all kinds of tropical getaway s.

In the article, TIME said how former President Duterte regarded the island as a “paradise lost,” or a “cesspool,” and ordered for its temporary closure due to the growing trash problem.

“The once brilliant white sand and clear waters of Boracay Island were choking on the trash and traffic that comes from two million annual visitors. It reached a nadir in 2018, when Duterte closed down all tourism on the island for six month – an emergency Band-Aid for decades of ecological abuse,” TIME remarked.

Although this abrupt closure initially had a severe impact on the local economy , it also gave the island a much-needed break from hosting an estimated 19,000-person crowd every day. 

Boracay was eventually able to recapture its former splendor . The native flora and fauna had been considerably restored by the time it was fully reopened in early 2022. The island now boasts pristine azure waters and a more spacious beach shore.

“As of February 2022, international visitors can finally revel in this revamped, recuperated, natural playground after what was effectively a three-year convalescence,” added TIME.

According to TIME , the list was compiled through a series of nominations from their “international network of correspondents and contributors.” They particularly picked the ones that could potentially offer “new and exciting experiences” this coming year.

Other places included in the list were: Ras Al Khaimah, UAE; Park City, Utah; Galapagos Islands; Dolni Morava, Czech Republic; Seoul, South Korea; Great Barrier Reef, Australia; Doha, Qatar; Detroit; Kerala, India; The Arctic; Ahmedabad, India; Nairobi, Kenya; València, Spain; Queenstown, New Zealand; Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe; and more.

In the past years, Boracay also bagged other awards, such as Asia’s Leading Beach Destination for the fifth time and Asia’s Leading Dive Destination for a third consecutive time during the 28th World Travel Awards 2021. It also was named one of the Traveler’s Top Islands of 2021 in the Conde Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards , alongside Siargao and Palawan. Boracay was also among the Top 25 Asia’s Best Beaches of TripAdvisor’s 2019 Travelers’ Choice Awards. – with reports from Bea Bertuldo/Rappler.com

Bea Bertuldo is a Rappler intern.

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2024 BORACAY TRAVEL GUIDE (ITINERARY + BUDGET)

by thepinay solobackpacker | Mar 9, 2024 | Aklan , Boracay , Itinerary , Philippines , Travel Guide | 0 comments

Detailed Boracay travel guide with DIY Boracay itinerary with budget including places to see in Boracay. 

The sun-drenched Boracay has brazenly succumbed to tourism. It placed the Philippines on the tourists’ radar because of its impeccable palm-fringed, powdery, white shore cuddled by turquoise, warm sea.  But there’s more to Boracay than its world-famous White Beach, the island is also packed water sports activities, beach parties, good food and fruit shakes, and friendly locals to boot.

TRAVEL BLOG CONTENTS

BORACAY PRE-TRAVEL GUIDE

About boracay.

The influx of tourists in Boracay started sometime in 1970’s, when the it was used as filming locations of the US movies Nam’s Angels and Too Late Hero.  After that, in 1978, German Writer Jens Peter mentioned Boracay as paradise on Earth in his book about the Philippines. Since then, foreign backpackers started to travel to Boracay and it quickly became a budget beach destination. Back in the days, Boracay is just one of the unfamiliar places in the province of Aklan, in the Philippines inhabited by the Ati and Tumandok, the indigenous people of Panay Island who thrive on coconut farming, fishing, and goat raising.

Sadly, as Boracay quickly became one of the world’s best beach destination and developed as a prime tourist destination, the Ati and Tumandok people, the original inhabitants of the island, were displaced on a mere 2.1 hectare walled community. Dexter Condez, the spokesperson of the Boracay Ati Tribal Organization (BATO) was gunned down, and the suspect is a security guard of a popular hotel chain. BATO, accused the management of the hotel and 2 other nearby resorts as allegedly interested in the lot occupied by the Ati people. The hotel strongly denied any involvement in the murder.

It is unfortunate that despite being the original residents of Boracay, the Ati and Tumandok people seem to have lost their rights and place in the island. Over the years, only a few of them work in hotels and restaurants around Boracay, when they should be the first ones benefitting from the influx of tourists there. I have visited other ASEAN countries, and I’ve seen how proud they are of their culture. They found a way to somehow preserve, integrate, and showcase their local culture and the way of life of the indigenous people to help educate visitors. Hopefully, in the near future, tourism in Boracay can create better economic opportunities for the Ati and Tumandok, after all, the island is originally their ancestral territory.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT BORACAY?

Boracay is a tropical beach destination, its peak season is around late March to May, the summer months in the Philippines. But take note that since it is the peak season, expect the prices of flights and hotels to skyrocket. Also, there are lots of tourists during the summer.  If you want to travel with less tourist, best time to visit Boracay is around January to early March, before the peak season.  August to November is low season, due to the rainy season and typhoons in the Philippines, but prices can be pretty low during this season, so if you want to save on flights and hotels, you can try visiting Boracay at your own risk during this season. Best to check the weather updates before your trip though.

BORACAY WI-FI

While most accommodations, cafes, and restaurants in Boracay offer free internet, having your own pocket Wi-Fi is still recommended. You can connect securely online when you have your own Wi-Fi and you can stay connected online even outside the confines of your resort or hotel.

PHILIPPINES POCKET WI-FI: RENT HERE

Boracay atm.

There are a handful of ATMs in Boracay (BDO, BPI, and Metrobank) and money exchange centers. Best to stack up on cash when in the island because almost everything is on a cash basis. Some establishments and hotels accept major credit cards.

BORACAY DRONE

Is drone allowed in Boracay? NO.  I was told they no longer allow flying drone for personal use.  As for business use, you need to secure a permit at the Municipal Mayor’s Office, fees may apply.

BORACAY SAFETY:

Is it safe to travel to Boracay? Yes, of course. Boracay is a tourist-friendly place and has been receiving tourists from around the world since time immemorial.  Locals here are easy going and pretty friendly.  But you have to understand that lately, due to the pandemic, which led to unemployment and closure of many businesses around the island, many locals are desperate to earn a living, so, please forgive some touts if they can be quite persistent to sell you tours or souvenirs. Thing is, Boracay is heavily dependent on tourism, that’s why the suffered a major blow when Covid-19 struck the world in 2020, because of the travel restrictions imposed by many countries. But overall, Boracay is still a great and safe destination to visit and enjoy, if you are looking to travel soon. It is also safe for solo female travelers, but I’d still recommend visiting in groups since it’s a beach destination that you’d cherish more if you are with your loved one, family, friends, or colleagues.

Travel Info Aklan Assistance Center

Smart: 0939 878 0715 Globe: 0975 580 9013 Email:  [email protected] or [email protected]

HOW TO GET TO BORACAY

Though you can reach Boracay by flying to Kalibo (Aklan), Roxas (Capiz), or Iloilo, because of Covid-19, Caticlan Airport (Godofredo Ramos Airport) is the only airport that accepts tourists traveling to Boracay because the IATF has implemented a one-entry-one exit policy for easier monitoring of tourists.

MANILA TO BORACAY/CEBU TO BORACAY/DAVAO TO BORACAY

  If you want a hassle-free trip from Caticlan Airport to your hotel, you can book a Boracay Airport transfer.

Caticlan Airport to Boracay (Shuttle Van) : RESERVE HERE

Caticlan airport to boracay (and vice versa): book here.

But if you want a DIY Tour of Boracay (Do-It-Yourself), here’s how:

• From Manila (1.25 hours), Cebu (1.5 hours), or Davao (6+ hours, via Manila or Cebu) you can fly to Caticlan Airport. Several airlines offer flights to and from Caticlan. Terminal fee is PHP 200 ($4), but that’s usually already included in your flight tickets.
• At Caticlan Airport, take a tricycle to Caticlan Jetty Port. Fare is about ₱150 ($3) per tricycle, good for 2-3 passengers. Travel time is approximately 10 minutes.
• Find the Registration Booth at Caticlan Jetty Port and register .
• Proceed to the Verification Area and present the Boracay requirements: the QR Code for the Health Declaration Card (HDC), the negative RT-PCR Test Result taken within 48 hours before your trip, and your confirmed hotel bookings.
• Pay the Boracay fees (boat fee, environmental, and terminal fee). There are 2 types of boats to get to and from Boracay:  the cheaper boat costs ₱25 ($0.52) per person one-way, whereas the fast craft costs ₱100 ($2) per person one-way. Meanwhile, the Boracay environmental fee is ₱75 ($1.55) and the terminal fee is ₱100 ($2).
• Enter the Caticlan Jetty Port Building and clear security check.
• Proceed to the Passenger Waiting Area. Wait for your boarding.
• Board your boat. Make sure to follow security protocols while on board. Travel time is approximately 15 minutes.
• Upon arrival at Boracay Port, ride a tricycle to your hotel. Chartered tricycle fare is roughly ₱100 ($2). Or if you’ve booked hotel pick-up through your hotel, look for your hotel shuttle.

Caticlan Jetty Port first trip starts at 5:00 AM and there’s one trip approximately every 15 minutes until 10:00 PM, daily.

On your return to Caticlan from Boracay, you need to pay the same fees at Cagban Port in Boracay – Environmental fee ₱75 ($1.55), Terminal fee ₱100 ($2), and boat fee ₱25 ($0.52) or ₱100 ($2) for fast craft.

KALIBO TO BORACAY

• 1.From Manila, you can also fly to Kalibo to get to Boracay. However, due to Covid-19, the IATF has implemented a one-entry-one exit policy for easier monitoring of tourists. Currently, only returning residents and OFWs are allowed to fly to Kalibo as of last year.
• .From Kalibo Airport, take a shuttle to Caticlan Jetty Port. Travel time is roughly 1 hour. Fare is about ₱500 ($10).
• Follow Step 3-9 above

KALIBO TO BORACAY BUS + FERRY : RESERVE HERE

Alternatively, you can also take the local yellow Ceres Bus to Caticlan Bus terminal. Then from Caticlan Terminal, take a tricycle to Caticlan Jetty Port.  Bus fare is roughly ₱120 ($2.47).

ROXAS TO BORACAY

If coming from Roxas, Capiz, here’s how to get to Boracay:

1.Take a shuttle bound for Kalibo. Fare is roughly ₱100 $2) to ₱150 ($3) per person.

2.Then once you’re in Kalibo, take a shuttle to Caticlan Jetty Port. Travel time is roughly 1 hour. Fare is about ₱500 ($10).

3.Follow Steps 3-9 above.

ILOILO TO BORACAY

If coming from Iloilo City, you may travel to Boracay by public transport. Here’s how:

1.Make your way to Ceres Bus Terminal in Tagbak, Jaro, District, Iloilo.

2.Board a Ceres bus bound for Caticlan, Aklan. Fare is roughly ₱327 ($7) for aircon-bus and travel time is roughly 5 hours.

3.At Ceres Bus Terminal in Caticlan, take a tricycle to Caticlan Jetty Port, fare is roughly ₱150 ($3) per tricycle, good for 2-3 passengers. Travel time is approximately 10 minutes.

4.Follow Steps 3-9 above.

ILOILO TO CATICLAN VAN : RESERVE HERE

Where to stay in boracay.

During my multiple visits in Boracay, I stayed at different hotels in different areas. One is located in Station 3, another in Diniwid Beach, and there’s also one in Station 2.  The most convenient  is the one at Station 2 of course, but I also liked my stay at Diniwid Beach it is quiet and the sunset was really great. Meanwhile, what I like about my hotel at Station 3 is, it’s inexpensive.  But my personal favorite is the one hidden in Bulabog Beach – Ferra Hotel and Garden Suites because it is spotless and has excellent customer service.  You can read my full review through the blog link below.

• Ferra Hotel and Garden Suites
• Location: Bulabog Beach
• RESERVE HERE
• BOOK PROMO HERE

RELATED BLOG: BORACAY FERRA HOTEL REVIEW

You’ll never really run out of places to stay in Boracay.  Hotels and resorts here have never stopped expanding, but make sure the hotel you’re booking is a Boracay accredited hotel. Here’s some of the top accredited hotels in Boracay according to online users.

1.Boracay Station 1 

White Beach in Boracay is divided into 3 stations, Station 1, Station 2, and Station 3.  Boracay Station 1 is often considered as the best place to stay in the island because of its more quiet and relaxing location compared to its neighbors. It’s the area where Willy’s Rock is located and has the finest, white shore in the island. Many of the luxury resorts in Boracay is concentrated in this area, accommodations here are pricey.

Here’s some of the top-rated hotels and resorts in Boracay Station 1:

• Boracay Backpackers
• Location: Boracay Station 1
• RESERVE HERE or BOOK HERE
• Hannah Hotel
•   BOOK HERE
• Cool Stay Inn
• Jony’s Boutique Hotel
• White Beach de Boracay
• Location: Boracay Station 1  
• RESERVE HERE  
• One Crescent Place
• Hennan Crystal Sands Resort
• The Lind Boracay

2.BORACAY STATION 2

Boracay Station 2 is sandwiched by White Beach Station 1 and Station 3. This is where most of the activities are happening and where you can find D’Mall and seafood market. Station 2 is packed with cafes, restaurants, souvenir shops, and bars that have never stopped expanding. It is a popular place to stay because of its convenient location. Hotels and resorts in Station 2 range from mid-range to high-end.

Here’s some of the top-rated hotels in Boracay Station 2:

• Lola’s Lodge
• Location: Boracay Station 2
• The Club Ten Beach Resort
• Aloha Boracay Hotel

3.Boracay Station 3

This area is adjacent to White Beach Station 2, and is a popular choice for backpackers and travelers on a budget.  Boracay Station 3 is where most budget hotels and backpacker hostels are concentrated.

Here’s a list of some of the top-rated hotels in Boracay Station 3:

• Boracay Pito Huts Resort
• Location: Boracay Station 3
• Calypso Dive Resort
• Anahaw Studio Suites
• Hue Hotels and Resorts Boracay

4.Diniwid Beach

Diniwid Beach is located after Station 1, it is about a 10-minute walk where you have to walk around a cliff.  It has a fine shore and good spot for sunset.  Hotels and resorts in Diniwid Beach are mid-range to upscale.

•   Sulu Sea Boutique Hotel
• Location: Diniwid Beach
• The Beach House Hotel
• Vilus Place Bed and Breakfast
• Microtel by Wyndham Boracay
• Boracay Amor Apartments

5.Bulabog Beach

I stayed here during my last visit to Boracy pre-covid. A rising star in best places to stay in Boracay is Bulabog Beach, situated on the east side of Boracay, across Station 2.  Here you’ll find hotel and resorts that won’t hurt your wallet. It’s just a tricycle away from Boracay White Beach or about 15-minute walk. Bulabog Beach is where most of the watersports are happening, thus, this is where watersports shops are condensed. It is the best spot for kiteboarding and kitesurfing.

Here’s some of the top-rated hotels in Bulabog Beach:

• Ralph’s Place
• The Lazy Dog Bed and Breakfast
• Aissatou Beach Resort
• Niu Ohana East Bay Apartment

BORACAY THINGS TO DO

You’ll never really run out of things to do in Boracay. Here’s some of the top activities in the island.

RELATED BLOG:  TOP BORACAY TOURIST SPOTS

1.swim at boracay white beach.

Mention Boracay and the image of White Beach with Willy’s Rock immediately comes to mind.  This jaw-dropping beach has powdery white shore lapped by a beautiful blend of blue and mint water. Tourists from all over the world are drawn to White Beach, which is now dotted with hotels, restaurants, cafes, bars, and souvenir shops. It is usually pretty busy during the summer months. White Beach deserves its fame, it boasts of the finest sand and definitely one of the best beaches I’ve visited in the Philippines. Even its seafloor has powdery sand, which makes it ideal for swimming.

White Beach is divided into 3 Stations: Station 1, Station 2, and Station 3.  Station 1 and 2 has finer sand compared to Station 3, and it is where most mid-ranged and luxury hotels are located.  That’s where you can find the posted boy of Boracay – Willy’s Rock.  Meanwhile. Station 3 is where most budget hotels are concentrated and is pretty popular to backpackers in Boracay.

How to get to White Beach: Take a tricycle to D’Mall.  From there, you can walk to Boracay White Beach Station 1, Station 2, and Station 3.

2.Boracay Island Hopping

If you still can’t get enough of Boracay, there are many beaches and isles sprinkled around this tiny island.  And the best way to get there is by hiring an outrigger boat or joining a Boracay Island Hopping Tour.  Island hopping boats can Boracay can accommodate 25 to 45 persons, depending on its size. You can join a Boracay Island Hopping Tour that typically costs ₱1,000 ($20) to ₱1,500 ($31) per person depending on the agency.  The group tour usually includes buffet lunch and roundtrip transfer to your hotel, entrance fee is typically excluded, you may have to pay separately.  The Boracay Island Hopping Tour usually includes a visit to:

• Puka Beach – Free entrance
• Crocodile Island – ₱20 ($0.41) entrance fee
• Crystal Cove – ₱300 ($6) entrance fee

Boracay Island Hopping Tour: DISCOUNTED HERE

Important: Always verify the meet-up point with the travel agency, especially if your hotel is NOT located around White Beach. Because usually the meet-up point is at D’Mall, which may be far from Yapak area or Diniwid Beach.

3.Boracay Land Tour

  If you want to explore other far more peaceful Boracay beaches without taking a boat, you can do so by hiring a tricycle for ₱500 ($10), good for 2-3 persons.  Alternatively, you can also rent an ATV for ₱800 ($17) – ₱1,000 ($21) per unit, good for 2 pax, and visit Mt. Luho Viewpoint. I took a tricycle tour during my last trip to Boracay and I enjoyed it, especially the view of Boracay from Mt. Luho Viewpoint.  The farther beaches of Boracay are undeniably more tranquil and still retains the appearance of a fishing village.

Here’s the usual list of Boracay tourist attractions included in the land tour:

• Puka Beach – free
• Luho Viewpoint – ₱ 150 ($3) entrance fee
• Ilig-Iligan Beach – free
• Bulabog Beach – free
• Diniwid Beach – free

Ilig-Iligan Beach

• Boracay Tricycle Tour

Usually ₱500 ($10) for a chartered tricycle, good for 2-3 persons. Just walk up and talk to a tricycle driver in Boracay. Discuss first the places you want to visit, the duration of the tour, the rate (per tricycle), and how many persons can the vehicle accommodate (pre-Covid19, it’s usually 2-3 pax).  Make sure you agree with the price and duration of the tour before hopping inside the vehicle for the Boracay Land tour.

• Boracay ATV Tour: BOOK HERE

Boracay ATV Tour

4.Try Boracay Water Sports

Boracay is a highly commercialized beach destination, it is crowded and crammed with water sports for adventure seekers. Here’s some of the water sports you might want to experience while in Boracay:

Boracay Helmet Diving: DISCOUNTED HERE

Boracay parasailing: book here, banana boat ride: book here, boracay fly fish: book here, boracay ufo and hurricane activity: reserve here, boracay jetski: book here, boracay mermaid swimming: book here, boracay mermaid photoshoot only: reserve here, boracay scuba diving: book here, 5.boracay fruit shake.

Boracay is well-known for its delicious fruit shake, and Jony’s Fruitshake is the original in the island, founded in 1982.  I was lucky enough to meet the amiable owner of Jony’s Fruitshake – Mr. Dionisio “Jony” Salme, who also owns Maya’s Restaurant, Pig Out Bistro, Jony’s Resort, and Jony’s Boutique Hotel. Jony’s Fruitshake is also served at Maya’s Restaurant and Pig Out Bistro.

Mang Jony is the long-time President of Boracay Business Foundation Incorporated (BFI), an organization of business owners in Boracay. He told me how he arrived in Boracay, back in March 2, 1972, when there was no electricity yet in the island. Back then, Boracay is still virtually empty, occupied mostly by Ati and Tumandok indigenous people, and a few foreign backpackers who visit the island occasionally. Mang Jony, who is originally from Pontevedra, Negros Occidental, worked for the Elizalde Group of Companies. But due to the land grabbing issues during the Marcos era, he was assigned to Boracay by his boss to manage the properties of Elizalde Family like the age-old D’Mall and a local radio station. Since there was no electricity yet, they use a generator. Jony’s Fruitshake started when an Austrian Dutch Backpacker who visited Boracay had a blender with him and sold him the blender when he went back to his country.  Apparently, the young guy got tired because there was no place to charge his blender.  Since they have a generator, Mang Jony eventually bought it, but said it was pretty expensive to maintain it since they had to travel all the way to Kalibo, which takes a whole day, just to buy gasoline for the generator to run the blender, to buy ice, and to buy fruits. Fortunately, a co-worker gifted him a refrigerator powered by kerosene where he made ice.  Soon enough, foreign tourists started lining up for his fruit shakes. He then added Mexican food to his menu, like tacos and burritos, since that’s what the foreigners like back then. He set up umbrellas and tables along White Beach, and the rest is history.  Today, you can get Jony’s Fruitshake beside Maya’s Restaurant and at Pig Out Bistro.

6.Boracay Food Trip

Boracay may not be the best place in the Philippines to go on a food trip, but it sure has a handful of relaxed restaurants and cozy cafés that serve both unfussy and creative dishes. Also, take note that because of Covid-19, many restaurants, cafes, and bars have closed. Here’s some of my personal favorites:

  Pig Out Bistro

  If you are wondering what Boracay looked like before the arrival of tourists, a huge mural painting inspired by one of the remaining old photos of Boracay taken by Dieter Schrottmann can be seen on the wall of the Pig Out Bistro in Boracay. But aside from the painting, what draws tourists to this tiny café is its ingenious food. Take for example the fresh oysters from Aklan, like the Oyster Mignonette, which, as its name suggests is garnished with mignonette sauce to balance out the brininess of the oyster. My favorite is the Green Oyster relished with herbed compound butter. And there’s also Oyster and Pearl, savored with egg roe, cucumber, and dill. If you’re in a group, try the seafood platter composed of grilled prawns, octopus, and gindara , oyster mignonette, baked oyster, steamed clams, and garlic steamed clams.

RELATED BLOG: PIG OUT BISTRO REVIEW

• The Pig Out Bistro Boracay
• Address: Brgy.Balabag Boracay, Aklan
• Open Hours: Daily 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM (last order at 9:30 PM)
• Facebook: @pigoutbistro
• Instagram: @thepigoutbistro

Maya’s Restaurant

This good old restaurant has been in Boracay since 1982, it was founded by Mang Dionisio “Jony” the same year as Jony’s Fruitshake. Maya is derived from the local name of a bird and the name of the indigenous people of Mexico – the Mayans, because the resto serves both Filipino and Mexican cuisines.

The palm-fringed Maya Restaurant is a beach-front diner located in White Beach Station 1 in Boracay, in front of Jony’s Hotel and beside Jony’s Fruitshake. It exudes an airy, tropical atmosphere and the interior is decked with modern-designed rattan chairs where you can sit snugly while sipping your favorite Jony’s Fruitshake.

The dishes here are also created by Chef Jun Salme of the Pig Out Bistro. The Mexican flavors include: Tacos Al Pastor , comprised of homemade fresh corn tortilla, slow-cooked pork, avocado, beans, onions, and cilantro rice. The Carnitas Burrito was inspired by the shared recipe of a former Mexican Ambassador to the Philippines.  Meanwhile, some of my favorite Filipino cuisines at Maya’s Restaurant are the Kansi – softened beef bone marrow stewed in lemon grass, ginger, and batwan , and of course, the Lechon Kawali – the popular pork belly served in small kawali , which is oven-steamed to preserve the crunchiness of the skin and the juiciness of the fat.

Other Places to Eat in Boracay

Nonie’s restaurant: reserve here, station x dip and dine experience: reserve here, 7.boracay sunset watching.

  The sunset of Boracay is legendary.  It is a big attraction on the island, while enjoying your fruit shake or beer at a beach-front café or a nearby swanky restaurant.

But if you want an extraordinary sunset watching experience, try the Boracay Paraw Sailing tours during sunset.  In the Philippines, “paraw” is a term for small boat with two katig (outrigger) that is propelled by sail. And there’s a plethora of paraw boats on the beach of Boracay used for sunset watching activity.  Paraw can accommodate up to 8-10 persons. Basically, you will ride the paraw and glide along the cerulean sea during sunset. Book ahead below to reserve a seat.

Paraw Boat Sailing: RESERVE HERE

8.boracay pub crawl.

Boracay is well-known for its night life.  Back in the days, during my first time in the island we met some friendly fire dancers who took us to local bars in the island where locals party like there’s no tomorrow. Nowadays, if you’re into party scenes, best to join the Boracay Pub Crawl where an experienced local guide will take you different popular bars in Boracay and get free shots and special drinks at every stop while still enjoying different activities.

BORACAY PUB CRAWL: RESERVE HERE

9.buy boracay souvenirs.

For a beach destination, Boracay is surprisingly a shopping haven, oozing with boutiques, souvenir shops, restaurants, cafes, and bistros. Its compact downtown area is perfect for shopping, strolling, and people-watching at an outdoor cafe. There are also souvenir stores in Puka Beach selling all kinds of beach outfits and Boracay souvenirs made of local materials.

  10. Boracay Side Trip

  While in Boracay, you can actually make day trips to neighboring tourist destinations.

Cliff Diving at Ariel’s Point

This popular tourist destination in Buruanga, Aklan is hugged by emerald and turquoise water and swimming holes hemmed in by rock formations. It’s often crowded with tourists, mostly foreigners, who want to try cliff diving from its 5 different diving boards starting at 3 meters to 15 meters high. If you’re not into cliff diving, Ariel’s Point Day Tour Package includes: paddle boarding, snorkeling, kayaking along Buruanga coast, and sunbathing with a scenic view of the Sulu Sea. A day trip here already includes a buffet lunch (traditional dishes), merienda (afternoon snack), and unlimited drinks (beers, rum, soda, mixed drinks, and water). If you book Ariel’s Point Day Tour Package below, it already includes a boat transfer to and from Boracay. Pick up from Boracay is around 11:15 AM, and return to Boracay is around 5:00 PM, so you have the whole day to spend at Ariel’s Point. You can book at least a day in advance through the link below to secure a slot since this is a popular destination.

ARIEL’S POINT DAY TOUR: RESERVE HERE

Carabao island.

If there’s one day trip from Boracay that I would recommend, it’s Carabao Island. I’ve spent a few days in this tiny quiet island, far from the trappings of commercialization, and I loved it. But if you don’t have much time to spend, you can book a day tour to Carabao Island.

CARABAO ISLAND DAY TOUR: BOOK HERE

And if you have the luxury of time after your Boracay trip, you can also visit other equally charming neighboring provinces.

Gigantes Island

If you still can’t get enough of the beach and islands, head to Gigantes Island, a group of islands off the coast of Carles in Northern Iloilo. Gigantes Island is speckled with islands and islets covered by dramatic rock formations, rough-hewn coves, and emerald lagoons. For details on how to get there and Gigantes Travel Guide, click the link of my blog below.

RELATED BLOG: GIGANTES ISLAND TRAVEL GUIDE

Boracay itinerary + budget.

Here’s a sample DIY Boracay itinerary with possible expenses. The sample Boracay budget below is good for 1 person, it can be cheaper if you are sharing the cost with someone or with a group.

REMINDER: You need to present the 2022 Boracay Travel Requirements and have it verified before traveling to Boracay.  See my instructions above.

Airfare + hotel + souvenirs are NOT included in the calculation of  sample Boracay expenses below.

BORACAY TRAVEL TIPS AND REMINDERS

Remember that you are only a visitor in Boracay, so, please, follow their rules and regulations for your safety and other people.

• Only 6,000 persons per day are allowed in Boracay.
• Urinating, defecating, vomiting, and spitting in public areas are prohibited.
• Dogs and other animals aren’t allowed to roam freely in public areas and beaches around Boracay.
• Visitors can only smoke at designated areas.
• Open fire and use of kerosene gas aren’t allowed on the shores of Boracay, that’s why fire dancers can only use LED lights.
• Flying a drone is not in Boracay.
• Building of sand castles in Boracay are prohibited. If caught, you may be jailed for it. This activity is prohibited because it may interfere with the natural terrain of the beach, resulting to prolonged presence of irregular contours which affect the natural symmetry of the beach.

RELATED TRAVEL BLOGS:

Puerto galera itinerary, baguio itinerary, guimaras travel guide, capiz things to do, iloilo itinerary, antique travel blog, legazpi itinerary, bohol itineraries 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 days, hundred islands itinerary, related posts.

PUERTO GALERA ITINERARY (TRAVEL GUIDE + BUDGET) 2024

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6 Boracay Tips I Wish I Knew Before Going: Must-Read for First-Time Visitors

1. Avoid the Boracay algae season

2. pre-book boracay airport to hotel transfers to avoid the long wait.

• 3. It's better to book Boracay activities in advance

4. You can access Boracay luxury resort amenities with day passes

• 5. There's so much to explore outside of White Beach Boracay

6. The Boracay Hop-on Hop-off shuttle service is a cheaper way to get around the island

The Philippines is home to some of the world's most beautiful beaches. Among them, Boracay stands out as one of the top places to visit in the Philippines . Located in the Western Visayas region, Boracay is known for its powdery white sand, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant Boracay nightlife . It's a paradise for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike.

I've visited Boracay many times already, and it has always been a great experience. I fell in love with its stunning sunsets, thrilling water activities, and delicious seafood. Some of my favorite memories include lounging on the beach, drinking coconut water, and getting an adrenaline rush with a Boracay windsurfing activity . Every day, there was a new thing to do in Boracay , and I didn't want to leave.

See our popular Boracay Tours and Activities

Boracay island hopping shared tour with lunch, kawa hot bath & snorkeling package, boracay island hopping package private tour with lunch, snorkeling gear & kawa hot bath, boracay paraw sailing sunset experience private tour.

In 2018, Boracay underwent a six-month closure for environmental rehabilitation. But since its reopening, it has regained its status as one of the most beautiful islands in the Philippines .

During my recent trip, I realized there were things I wish I had known before. Now, I'll be sharing these Boracay travel tips with you to help you make the most of your vacation, especially if it's your first time.

I had an interesting discovery during my recent trip to Boracay! During the algae season, usually around February to April, the stunning White Beach gets tinged with green. Although it wasn't exactly what I expected, I was intrigued to discover what actually makes this happen. It's all due to factors like warm water temperatures and nutrient runoff, which create an environment perfect for algae growth.

If you're curious about the best time to visit Boracay , I strongly advise avoiding the peak months of the algae season, from February to April. Instead, consider visiting during the beginning of the rainydry season that decreases the phenomenon, from May to June, when the beach is at its pristine best.

See our popular Boracay Vacation Packages

If you do find yourself in Boracay during the algae season, I've found that heading to other beaches aside from White Beach , such as the beach in Boracay Newcoast , is a great alternative. With fewer tourists and crystal-clear waters, it's like having your private paradise.

Another tip to avoid the green beach of Boracay during algae season: I booked a Crimson Boracay day pass , which includes access to a stunning private beach without a speck of algae in sight. It was such a relaxing experience, and I highly recommend it if you're looking for a picture-perfect and relaxing Boracay tour aside from the usual water activities.

So, if you find yourself in Boracay during the algae season, don't worry! There's still so much beauty to discover on this stunning island.

See our popular Crimson Resort Mactan Packages

During my weekend trip, the airports near Boracay were packed with tourists. I had to wait in a long line for a tricycle to Caticlan Jetty Port, pay registration fees, and then ride a boat to Cagban Port. I even hailed another tricycle again that could take me to my Boracay Station 2 resort . I wish I had booked a Boracay airport to hotel transfer beforehand to avoid the hassle. Watching others zoom past us to their transfers made me realize the benefit of pre-booking.

If you want a hassle-free vacation in the island, plan and book your Boracay airport transfers early. It will save you time and avoid stress. You won't have to wait in long lines like I did or worry about finding transportation when you arrive. So, remember to book ahead for a smoother trip.

• Cebu to Boracay packages
• Manila to Boracay packages

See our popular Boracay Transfers

Caticlan airport to/from boracay hotel | shared roundtrip boracay transfers (mph), shared boracay caticlan airport to or from any boracay resort land & sea transfers, caticlan airport to/from boracay hotel | boracay transfers (mph), 3. it's better to book boracay activities in advance.

When I visited Boracay for the first time, I was super excited to try out all the fun water activities! There were so many cool things to do, like parasailing , riding a banana boat , and trying a crystal kayak in Boracay . But what I was looking forward to trying were these unique activities: sunset paraw sailing and helmet diving in Boracay .

While walking along White Beach, I noticed lots of people offering tours and activities. At first, I thought it might be easy to just book something on the spot, which is why I paid for my activities there. But then I realized they were asking for much more money than I could have paid if I had booked Philippine guided tours in advance online, like through Guide to the Philippines.

I was really bummed I wasn’t able to book Boracay activities in advance at that time. Instead of relaxing, I constantly worried about how to enjoy the most beautiful Philippine beaches and other attractions in Boracay. It also made me vulnerable to some of the travel scams in the Philippines that I had read about.

In the end, I did manage to try the activities I wanted to, plus I was able to join a Boracay party boat and a Boracay sunset cruise , but the lack of planning definitely added unnecessary stress to my trip. Next time, I'll definitely be more prepared and book ahead to avoid this kind of problem.

Boracay is known for being home to some of the most luxurious resorts in the Philippines , mostly Boracay Station 1 resorts . But let's be real: staying at the best Boracay hotels for the whole trip can be pricey. That's why I usually stay at a  cheap hotel in Boracay (there are many budget-friendly  Boracay Station 3 hotels ). I realized, though, that booking resort day passes can be a great way to enjoy some of the luxuries of the more expensive Boracay resorts without the high cost of staying there.

Two accredited hotels in Boracay that I wish I had visited during my recent trip are Crimson Boracay and Movenpick Boracay. With their day passes, I've heard you can enjoy their top-notch amenities without spending too much! I'm definitely considering them for my next trip.

A Crimson Boracay day pass will give you access to their 5-star resort facilities, including the main pool, kids pool, and private beach, along with the use of outdoor showers and public restrooms at Azure Beach Club and Beach Pavilion. 

See our popular Crimson Boracay Packages

You can also enjoy beach activities such as volleyball, soccer, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding while receiving complimentary use of sunbeds and towels. Additionally, the pass also includes a consumable amount of P1,500 for ala carte dining at Azure Beach Club and a 2-hour free-flow beverage package from 1 to 3 PM!

Meanwhile, a Movenpick Boracay day pass will give you access to their luxury facilities, including their swimming pool, private beach, gym, and shower room. You'll also receive a welcome drink at Sol Marina Beach Club and a meal entitlement at various Movenpick restaurant outlets. Additionally, you'll enjoy complimentary access to Movenpick Chocolate Hour, a 10% discount on additional a la carte orders on food and drinks, and 10% savings on massages and treatments at Sagay Spa.

So, even if you can't afford to book a Boracay beach resort package like me, these day passes will allow you to experience the best of Boracay's luxury scene.

• Check out the best Philippine travel packages in Boracay for a longer tour duration
• Relax and unwind with your family at one of the hotels in Boracay with family rooms

See our popular Movenpick Boracay Packages

Amazing 4-day movenpick boracay 5-star resort package with airfare from manila or clark & transfers, boracay movenpick resort & spa day pass with access to facilities, chocolate hour & meal, luxurious 5-day boracay package at 5-star movenpick resort & spa with airfare & chocolate hour, 5. there's so much to explore outside of white beach boracay.

When I visited Boracay, I spent most of my time at White Beach, which was incredible. But looking back, I realize there's so much more to this beautiful island than just one beach. If you're planning a trip, here's a tip: don't miss out on other amazing tourist spots in Boracay !

First, there's Puka Beach. I was told that the vibe there is totally different from White Beach. It's quieter and more serene, with amazing shells scattered along the shore. Then, Diniwid Beach is smaller and a great spot to watch the Boracay sunset as it's away from the crowds. Both beaches are included in most Boracay island hopping tours . I regret not joining one!

See our popular Boracay Island Hopping Tours

Luckily, I was able to hike to Mount Luho, which is the highest point on the island and offers breathtaking scenery. However, I wasn’t able to visit Ariel's Point. It's a cliff-jumping spot with different platforms, perfect if you want an adrenaline rush.

I wish I had known about Punta Bunga Beach and Banyugan Beach during my trip as well. They're perfect for peace and quiet, known for their exclusivity and pristine beauty. I heard it’s the ideal place for a relaxing day. In fact, when my friend went there, she told me someone proposed there! No wonder the island is one of the most romantic places in the Philippines . 

There are also places to eat in Boracay where I enjoyed the food. However, most popular food outlets got crowded at night. If you're looking for exclusivity, I was told you can dine at restaurants inside beachfront resorts in Boracay or at high-rated restaurants. In fact, I’m planning to try a 5-course meal at Aria Cucina Italia on my next trip. If you're a Muslim traveler, some restaurants also serve halal food in Boracay . 

So, don't just stick to White Beach like I did; get out there and explore other attractions in Boracay! 

• Find out more about other romantic destinations in the Philippines besides Boracay. 

Getting around the island can be pricey. During my recent Boracay trip, I paid PHP100 for a single tricycle ride because I was traveling solo, and they considered it a "special" fare. If only I had known about the Boracay Hop-on Hop-off shuttle service earlier! It's a much cheaper way to explore the island's attractions.

With this service, you can easily visit Boracay's top tourist spots or move between Station 1, Station 2, Station 3, Bulabog Beach, and Newcoast Boracay. Plus, you can enjoy unlimited rides with a 1-day pass. If you're staying longer, there are options to upgrade to a 2-day or 3-day pass.

Booking the Boracay Hop-on Hop-off shuttle is a no-brainer, especially if you're unfamiliar with the local transportation system. It takes away all the hassle of figuring out how to get around. Just check the nearest pick-up and drop-off points, plan your itinerary, and you're good to go!

• Discover other Aklan tourist spots besides Boracay by joining an Aklan tour .

Follow these Boracay Tips and Advice for a Great Vacation

For me, the best time to visit the Philippines is during its dry season, which is why I’m planning to visit Boracay again soon. I’m very excited to try what I learned from my previous trip! For a more worry-free vacation, here’s a bonus tip: you can book a Boracay all-inclusive package or a Philippines itinerary travel package if you're going to stay longer. You can also book flights to the Philippines , including cheap flights to Boracay , like cheap flights from Manila to Caticlan , with Guide to the Philippines.

Stress-Free 4-Day Boracay Package at Tides Hotel with Airfare from Manila or Clark & Island Hopping

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Solenn Heussaff takes daughters Thylane, Maëlys to a Boracay beach trip

It’s a girls’ trip for Solenn Heussaff and her daughters! On Instagram, Solenn shared photos from her recent beach trip to Boracay with her adorable kids Thylane and Maëlys. In the post, the three could be seen spending time at a beachfront while playing with the island's fine white sand. In the last slide of the photo carousel, the Kapuso artist showed off her fit figure while wearing a colorful two-piece bikini. “Last minute beach trip to Boracay with my girls,” Solenn said in the caption. During their trip, Solenn and her kids were joined by Carla Humphries and Bianca King . Thylane and Maëlys are Solenn’s kids with Nico Bolzico . The couple tied the knot in 2016. In January, Solenn gave a peek inside their new modern tropical-themed family home .

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Solenn Heussaff (@solenn)

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Princess is launching an all-inclusive, 4-month, around-the-world cruise for $20,000— see what it'll be like

• Princess Cruises announced a 114-day  world cruise to 52 destinations in 2026, starting at $20,000 per person. 
• Guests who book early would get a free, all-inclusive package, a first for Princess' global itineraries.
• Extended and all-inclusive cruises have emerged as big trends in the vacation industry.

Princess Cruise's new around-the-world voyage will hit two vacation trends in one itinerary.

In January 2026, the company says its Coral Princess will embark on a 114-day cruise to 52 ports in 28 countries and six continents — more destinations than any of its previous global sailings .

It's the Carnival Corp brand's latest appeal to the extended cruising trend . But it's not the only fad this four-month vacation is targeting.

The sailing, which starts at $20,000 per person, also marks the first time Princess is offering a complimentary all-inclusive package as a way to entice early bookings.

Ultra-long and all-inclusive cruises have emerged as big trends in the industry.

Regent Seven Seas, Azamara, and Oceania's 2024 around-the-world cruises all sold out before departing in January. The former was fully booked within three hours, while every cabin on the latter was called for in 30 minutes.

Besides being high-end, these three companies share one commonality: some level of all-inclusiveness , as is common with premium cruise lines.

Mass-market cruise companies rarely go the all-inclusive route.

Princess, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian are generally beloved for their affordability.

But if you want to experience all their ships have to offer, be prepared to face a list of up-charged amenities like pay-to-play rides and specialty restaurants . After all, there's a reason their base fares are much cheaper than their increasingly popular ultra-luxury, all-inclusive counterparts.

But Princess has been increasingly vying for a slice of the luxury cruiser pie.

The cruise line says guests who book its 2026 world cruise early (that is, by the end of October) will receive its most inclusive Princess Premier package for free. The perk — launched two years ago — covers amenities that typically have a fee, like WiFi, premium drinks, some specialty restaurants, and workout classes.

Travelers who reserve one of the ship's high-end cabins by the same deadline would also receive complimentary airport transfers and airfare, services normally exclusively offered by luxury cruise lines .

The itinerary would have two roundtrip embarkation options: Fort. Lauderdale, Florida, on January 5, 2026, or Los Angeles 16 days later.

From there, the 2,000-guest Coral Princess would sail more than 35,000 nautical miles to ports in North America, the Pacific Islands, New Zealand and Australia, Asia, the Mediterranean, Europe, and Central and South America.

It wouldn't be Princess' longest voyage — that title goes to its 116-day world cruise in 2025 — but it would be one of its most destination-heavy.

While two days longer, next year's around-the-world cruise would hit six fewer ports and four fewer countries than its 2026 counterpart.

According to the itinerary, about half of the 2026 voyage consists of sea days.

That's a lot of time on the water with no land in sight. Luckily, travelers can keep themselves entertained by attending lectures and programs related to the destinations, leisuring around the adult-only lounge, or taking a dip in Coral Princess' four pools.

The 21-year-old ship also has 10 places to grab a bite, although the Italian and steakhouse restaurants are considered specialty. Premier is the cruise line's most inclusive package, but it only includes 16 free dinners at these upcharge restaurants, paced once a week.

Princess is still a mass-market cruise line, after all.

The company has been increasingly dangling its inclusive package as a big perk.

The company says its two-month-old Sun Princess will debut in the US in October with its first-ever Sanctuary Collection . Travelers who splurge on these expensive and luxurious accommodations would be rewarded with two major benefits: a private lounge and Princess Premier.

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