Experience the ultimate island paradise in the Philippines with Boracay.

Are you ready for an adventure like no other? Look no further than Boracay, the world-renowned island paradise that will take your breath away. With its stunning white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and awe-inspiring sunsets, Boracay is the ultimate destination for thrill-seekers and relaxation-seekers alike. Get your adrenaline pumping with exciting water sports like parasailing, scuba diving, and kite surfing, or immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife scene with countless bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from.

But that’s not all that Boracay has to offer, this tropical oasis has something for everyone. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, Boracay has it all. From pristine beaches and thrilling water sports to luxurious spas, world-class shopping, and delicious cuisine, you’ll never run out of things to do.

Getting to Boracay is a breeze, with direct flights from major cities like Manila, Cebu, and Clark, as well as ferry services from nearby ports. And with a range of accommodation options to suit any budget, from budget hostels to luxury resorts, you’ll have no trouble finding the perfect place to stay.

But perhaps the best thing about Boracay is its friendly and welcoming locals, who are always ready to help and speak English fluently. With the island’s recent rehabilitation efforts to restore its natural beauty and environment, you can rest assured that your visit to Boracay will be safe and sustainable.

A Glimpse into History

Boracay is a beautiful island in the Philippines that was originally inhabited by the Ati people, an indigenous tribe known for their curly hair and dark complexion. They named the island “Bora” which means bubbles, and “Bocay” which means white, referring to the sand and the foam of the waves.

Boracay remained unknown to the outside world until the 1970s when a German traveler named Jens Peters wrote a book about his travels in the Philippines, which included a chapter on Boracay. His description of the island’s beauty and tranquility attracted other foreign travelers, which led to the development of the island’s infrastructure and economy.

However, the influx of tourists also led to the displacement and marginalization of the Ati people, who were forced to sell their lands and move to other parts of the country. In 2018, the Philippine government ordered a six-month closure of the island to tourists to address the environmental and social issues caused by overdevelopment and overcrowding.

During the rehabilitation process, the sewage system was improved, illegal structures were demolished, environmental laws were enforced, and the restoration of Ati’s ancestral domain was carried out. The island reopened in October 2018, with new rules and regulations to ensure its sustainability and preservation.

Some of the new rules include a limit on the number of tourists, a ban on single-use plastics, a prohibition on smoking and drinking on the beach, and a requirement for hotels and resorts to have environmental compliance certificates. With these measures in place, it is hoped that Boracay will continue to be a beautiful and sustainable destination for many years to come.

Reaching Paradise

Boracay is a scenic island located around 315 kilometers (196 miles) south of Manila, which is the capital of the Philippines. If you plan to travel to Boracay, the most convenient and quickest way to reach the island is by air. There are two airports near the island: Caticlan Airport, also known as Godofredo P. Ramos Airport or Boracay Airport, and Kalibo Airport. Both airports have regular flights from Manila and other domestic and international destinations.

Caticlan Airport is the closest airport to Boracay, and it takes only a 10-minute ride to reach the Caticlan Jetty Port, where you can take a 15-minute boat ride to the island. However, the flights to Caticlan Airport are usually more expensive and limited as this airport can only accommodate small planes.

On the other hand, Kalibo Airport is a larger and cheaper airport as it can handle bigger planes and more flights. However, it is around 68 kilometers (42 miles) away from the Caticlan Jetty Port, so you will need to take a 1.5 to 2-hour bus or van ride to reach the port from there.

Once you arrive at the Caticlan Jetty Port, you will need to pay the terminal fee, the environmental fee, and the boat fare. The total cost for all three fees is approximately PHP 300 (USD 6). Additionally, you will need to show a confirmed booking from an accredited hotel or resort in Boracay as per the new regulations to limit the number of tourists on the island.

Upon completion of the boat ride, you will arrive at one of the three jetty ports in Boracay, which are Cagban Jetty Port, Tambisaan Jetty Port, or Tabon Jetty Port. From there, you can take a tricycle, a motorcycle, or a shuttle to your hotel or resort. The fare for this ride will depend on the distance and the number of passengers. However, it usually ranges from PHP 50 to PHP 150 (USD 1 to USD 3) per person.

When to Visit Boracay

As we look forward to the coming months, it is important to keep in mind the climate and weather conditions in Boracay. The island has a tropical climate, which means it is warm and humid all year round, but two seasons have a significant impact on the weather and sea conditions.

The dry season, or Amihan season, will begin in November and run through April. This is an exciting time to visit Boracay, as the weather is expected to be sunny and pleasant with calm and clear seas. During these months, the island will also be bustling with various festivals and events such as the Boracay Ati-Atihan, the Boracay International Funboard Cup, and the Boracay Dragon Boat Festival. However, it’s important to note that the dry season is also the peak season, which means the island will be crowded and the prices will be higher.

On the other hand, the wet season, or Habagat season, which runs from May to October, is expected to be less predictable with rain and rough, murky seas. While this is the low season with fewer crowds and lower prices, the months of July, August, and September can be challenging due to the possibility of typhoons and strong winds.

So, as we plan our future trips to Boracay, it is important to take into consideration the weather and seasons to ensure the best possible experience on this beautiful island.

What to See and Do in Boracay

Boracay, despite being a small island, offers a plethora of attractions and activities for its visitors. Whether you’re someone who loves spending time by the beach, exploring nature, seeking adventure, or getting immersed in different cultures, Boracay has something to suit everyone’s interests and budget. Here are some of the top things you can do and see while you’re in Boracay:

Beaches

Boracay is a tropical paradise that boasts a plethora of stunning beaches, each with its own unique charm and character. Of all the beaches, White Beach is undoubtedly the most famous and popular. Stretching over four kilometers along the island’s west coast, White Beach’s powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters make it a top destination for travelers from all over the world.

Divided into three sections, White Beach offers something for everyone. Station 1 is the most luxurious and tranquil area, with upscale hotels and resorts such as Discovery Shores, The Lind, and Shangri-La. Station 2 is the liveliest and most bustling section, with a variety of budget hotels, hostels, restaurants, bars, and clubs. Station 3, on the other hand, is the most relaxed and affordable area, with cheaper hotels and resorts, local eateries, and souvenir shops.

White Beach on Boracay Island is an ideal destination to bask in the sun and enjoy the sand and sea. You can also witness breathtaking sunset views and engage in various water activities, such as swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, parasailing, banana boat riding, and jet skiing. However, if you want to avoid the crowds and discover other beaches, there are several alternatives worth checking out.

• Puka Beach is a serene and secluded beach located on the northern tip of the island. The beach is named after the puka shells that cover its shore. Puka Beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. Additionally, you can collect puka shells and use them to make jewelry.
• Diniwid Beach is a small and cozy beach situated on the northwest coast of the island, next to Station 1 of White Beach. The beach is a hidden gem that provides a more peaceful and intimate atmosphere. You can also enjoy a stunning view of the cliffs and the ocean.
• Bulabog Beach is located on the east coast of the island, opposite White Beach. It is a long and narrow beach and is the primary destination for kitesurfing and windsurfing. The beach has strong and consistent winds from November to April, and several schools and shops offer lessons and equipment rentals.
• Ilig-Iligan Beach is a remote and rustic beach located on the northeast coast of the island. The beach is accessible by boat or motorbike and is an excellent place to experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Boracay. You can also explore the nearby caves and coves while at the beach.

Nature and Adventure

Boracay is not only a great beach destination but also a nature and adventure destination. The island has a rich and diverse ecosystem, with lush forests, hills, wetlands, and coral reefs. You can also spot various wildlife, such as monkeys, bats, birds, and butterflies. If you’re looking for some thrilling activities, then you should try some of these:

• Zipline and Cable Car: Enjoy the panoramic view of the sea and the sky while flying from one hill to another and experience the adrenaline rush. You can also ride a cable car that will take you back to the starting point.

• ATV and Buggy Car: Explore the island’s off-road trails and visit some of the island’s attractions, such as the Ocean Tower, the Butterfly Garden, and the Mount Luho Viewpoint. You can drive an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) or a buggy car and explore the flatlands to the hills.

• Helmet Diving: Explore the underwater world of Boracay without having any scuba diving skills or equipment. You can wear a helmet that will provide you with air and walk on the seabed where you can see and feed various fish and corals.

• Parasailing: Enjoy the breathtaking view of the island and the horizon while being towed by a speedboat and feel the wind on your face and the sun on your skin. You can also spot some dolphins or turtles.

• Cliff Diving: Test your courage and skills by jumping off a cliff into the deep blue water. You can choose from different heights, ranging from 3 meters (10 feet) to 15 meters (50 feet), and enjoy the scenic surroundings, such as the rock formations and the caves.

Culture and History

Boracay is not only a perfect destination for leisure and relaxation but also a cultural and historical hotspot. It’s a place where you can learn more about the island’s heritage and identity. You can visit some of the island’s landmarks and museums, as well as join some of the island’s festivals and events. Here are some of the things you can do to immerse yourself in the island’s culture and history:

• Boracay Ati-Atihan: Every third Sunday of January, the island celebrates the feast of the Santo Niño, the patron saint of the island, with a colorful and festive parade. The parade features the island’s indigenous people, the Ati, wearing traditional costumes and dancing to the beat of the drums. You can also paint your face with black soot and join the parade as a sign of respect and solidarity.
• Boracay Heritage Center: At this center, you can learn more about the island’s history, culture, and environment through exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia presentations. Additionally, you can see the replica of the Boracay Stone, which is a large boulder that bears the inscription of the island’s original name, Bora-Bocay.

• Motag Living Museum: Experience the rural life of Boracay before it became a tourist destination. At this interactive museum, you can participate in the daily activities of the local farmers, such as planting, harvesting, cooking, and weaving. You can also ride a carabao, which is a water buffalo, and taste some of the local delicacies.
• Boracay Dream Catcher: This is a show where the island’s performers showcase their amazing skills and talents. They display the island’s culture and diversity through music, dance, acrobatics, and fire. You can join the show and learn some of the moves and tricks from the performers.

Eating

Boracay is a paradise for food lovers, with a wide range of cuisines and dishes to suit every taste and appetite. You can find local and international restaurants, cafes, bars, and street food stalls all over the island, offering delicious and affordable food and drinks. Here are some of the best places to eat in Boracay, divided into different categories:

• Local: If you’re looking for authentic and flavorful Filipino cuisine, try these local restaurants and dishes in Boracay: Smoke Resto, where you can order the famous chicken inasal (grilled chicken marinated in vinegar and spices), sisig (sizzling chopped pork with onions and chili), and bulalo (beef bone marrow soup); Dos Mestizos, where you can savor Spanish-influenced dishes such as paella (rice with seafood and meat), callos (stewed beef tripe and chickpeas), and tapas (small plates of appetizers); and D’Talipapa, where you can buy fresh seafood from the market and have it cooked by nearby restaurants according to your preference.
• International: If you want to sample a diverse range of delicious cuisines from around the world, check out these international restaurants in Boracay: Aria Cucina Italiana, where you can enjoy classic and contemporary Italian dishes such as pizza, pasta, risotto, and gelato; Subo Boracay, where you can experience the rich and exotic flavors of Southeast Asian dishes such as nasi goreng (fried rice with meat and vegetables), laksa (spicy noodle soup with coconut milk and seafood), and rendang (slow-cooked beef in spices and coconut milk); and Los Indios Bravos, where you can indulge in hearty and satisfying British and American dishes such as fish and chips, burgers, steaks, and pies.
• Street food: If you’re looking for cheap and tasty snacks, try these street food stalls and delicacies in Boracay: Chori Burger, where you can bite into grilled chorizo (sausage) patty sandwiched between two buns, topped with sauces and condiments; Jonah’s Fruit Shake, where you can sip on a refreshing and fruity shake made with fresh fruits, milk, and ice; and Calamansi Muffins, where you can munch on a soft and moist muffin flavored with calamansi (local lime) juice and zest.

Nightlife

Boracay is well-known for its vibrant and exciting nightlife, offering a variety of venues and events to suit every mood and preference. You can find bars, clubs, lounges, and live music venues all over the island, particularly along White Beach, where the party never stops. Here are some of the best places to enjoy the nightlife in Boracay, categorized for your convenience:

• Bars: If you want to socialize with other travelers and locals, you can visit some of these bars in Boracay: Epic Boracay, where you can dance and drink to the beats of resident and guest DJs, as well as participate in themed parties and events; Exit Bar, where you can relax and drink to the tunes of live bands and acoustic performers, as well as play pool and darts; and Boracay PubCrawl, where you can join a group of fun-loving people and hop from one bar to another, wearing a signature yellow shirt and a shot glass necklace.

• Clubs: If you want to party and dance the night away, you can check out some of these clubs in Boracay: Club Paraw, where you can groove to the music of local and international DJs, as well as enjoy fire dancers and the beachfront view; Club Galaxy, where you can rave to the music of electronic and techno DJs, as well as enjoy laser lights and smoke machines; and Coco Bar, where you can boogie to the music of retro and disco DJs, as well as enjoy colorful and quirky decor.
• Lounges: If you want to relax and unwind with a drink and a view, you can try some of these lounges in Boracay: Spider House, where you can sip a cocktail or beer while watching the sunset and stars from a bamboo hut perched on a cliff; Solstice Rooftop Lounge, where you can nibble on tapas and wine while admiring the panoramic view of the island and ocean from a rooftop terrace; and Boracay Cocktail Lounge, where you can taste some of the best cocktails and spirits while listening to chill and ambient music from a cozy and classy lounge.

Accommodation

Boracay provides a wide range of accommodation options that cater to every budget and preference. You can choose from luxurious hotels and resorts, mid-range hotels and inns, budget hostels and guesthouses, or even homestays and apartments. Here are some of the best places to stay in Boracay, according to different categories:

• Luxury: If you’re looking for a lavish and comfortable stay, you can book a room or a villa at one of these top-rated luxury hotels and resorts in Boracay: Discovery Shores, The Lind, Shangri-La’s Boracay Resort and Spa, Crimson Resort and Spa, Movenpick Resort and Spa, or The District Boracay. These properties offer world-class amenities and services, such as spacious rooms, private pools, spa treatments, fine dining, and beach access. Expect to pay around PHP 10,000 to PHP 30,000 (approximately USD 205 to USD 615) per night for these accommodations.

• Mid-range: If you’re looking for a comfortable and affordable stay, you can choose one of these highly-rated mid-range hotels and inns in Boracay: Coast Boracay, Hue Hotels and Resorts, Astoria Current, Le Soleil de Boracay, or Boracay Haven Resort. These properties offer cozy and modern rooms, swimming pools, restaurants, and beach access. Expect to pay around PHP 3,000 to PHP 7,000 (approximately USD 60 to USD 145) per night for these accommodations.
• Budget: If you’re looking to save money and meet other travelers, you can choose one of these popular budget hostels and guesthouses in Boracay: Mad Monkey Hostel, Chill Out Hostel, W Hostel, Frendz Resort and Hostel, or Boracay Backpackers. These properties offer dorm beds, private rooms, shared bathrooms, common areas, and free breakfast. Expect to pay around PHP 500 to PHP 1,500 (approximately USD 10 to USD 30) per night for these accommodations.

Activities for Every Soul

Boracay is a playground for all kinds of activities, both on land and on water. You can choose from a variety of options, depending on your level of skill, interest, and budget. Here are some of the best activities to try in Boracay, according to different categories:

• Relaxing: If you want to relax and pamper yourself, you can try some of these relaxing activities in Boracay:
  • Spa, where you can enjoy a massage, a facial, a manicure, or a pedicure, from one of the many spas and wellness centers on the island, such as Mandala Spa and Resort Villas, Tirta Spa, and Bella Isa Spa;
  • Yoga, where you can practice your poses, breathing, and meditation, from one of the yoga studios or instructors on the island, such as True Yoga, Boracay Yoga, and Yoga Namaste;
  • and Sunset Cruise, where you can watch the sun dip into the horizon while sailing on a traditional outrigger boat, called a paraw, with a drink and a snack. 
• Romantic: If you want to romance and impress your partner, you can try some of these romantic activities in Boracay:
  • Helicopter Tour, where you can fly over the island and see its beauty from above, while holding hands and cuddling with your loved one, from one of the helicopter operators on the island, such as Island Helicopters, Boracay Helicopters, and Skyjet;
  • Dinner by the Beach, where you can dine under the stars, with the sound of the waves and the candlelight, from one of the restaurants that offer romantic packages on the island, such as The Sands, The District, and The Lind;
  • and Fireworks Display, where you can watch the sky light up with colorful and dazzling fireworks while kissing and hugging your sweetheart, from one of the venues that host fireworks shows on the island, such as Epic Boracay, Club Paraw, and Boracay Cocktail Lounge. 

• Fun: If you want to have fun and make memories, you can try some of these fun activities in Boracay:
  • Zorb, where you can roll down a hill inside a giant inflatable ball, while laughing and screaming with your friends, from one of the zorb parks on the island, such as Zorb Park and Zipline Boracay;
  • Mermaid Swimming, where you can wear a mermaid tail and swim like a mermaid, while posing for photos and videos with your friends, from one of the mermaid schools on the island, such as Philippine Mermaid Swimming Academy and Boracay Mermaids;
  • and Pub Crawl, where you can join a group of fun-loving people and hop from one bar to another, wearing a signature yellow shirt and a shot glass necklace, from one of the pub crawl organizers on the island, such as Boracay PubCrawl and Mad Monkey Hostel.

Stories that Linger

Boracay is a place where stories are made and shared, as it is full of interesting and inspiring people, events, and experiences. You can hear and tell stories of love, adventure, friendship, and more, as you meet and mingle with other travelers and locals on the island. Here are some of the stories that you can find and create in Boracay, according to different categories:

• Love: Boracay is a popular destination for couples, as it offers a romantic and intimate setting for their relationship. You can hear and tell stories of how you met, how you fell in love, how you proposed, how you got married, or how you celebrated your anniversary, on the island. You can also witness and participate in weddings, proposals, and vow renewals, on the island, as there are many venues and services that cater to these occasions, such as Boracay Weddings, Boracay Beach Club, and Boracay Celebrations. 

• Adventure: Boracay is also a popular destination for adventurers, as it offers a thrilling and exciting environment for their escapades. You can hear and tell stories of how you conquered your fears, how you challenged yourself, how you explored the unknown, or how you achieved your goals, on the island. You can also join and support adventure races, competitions, and festivals, on the island, such as the Boracay International Dragon Boat Festival, the Boracay Skyathon Beach Run, and the Boracay Open Ultimate Frisbee Tournament.
• Friendship: Boracay is also a popular destination for friends, as it offers a fun and lively atmosphere for their bonding. You can hear and tell stories of how you met, how you became friends, how you shared secrets, or how you had fun, on the island. You can also make and meet new friends, on the island, as some activities and events encourage socializing and networking, such as the Boracay Ati-Atihan Festival, the Boracay International Funboard Cup, and the Boracay Cocktail Festival.

Facts Worth Knowing

Boracay is a small yet stunning island that boasts not only natural beauty and entertainment but also a rich history and culture. It has some fascinating facts that you might not be aware of. Here are some of the most intriguing ones:

• Boracay is one of the smallest islands in the Philippines, with an area of only 10.32 square kilometers and a population of around 32,000 people. Despite its size, Boracay holds a special place in the hearts of Filipinos and tourists alike, thanks to its breathtaking scenery and friendly locals.
• The name Boracay was derived from the local word “borac”, which means “white cotton”. This refers to the island’s white sandy beaches, which are as soft and fluffy as cotton. The sand is naturally powdery and sugary, making it a perfect location for a relaxing day on the beach.
• Boracay is home to nine beaches, each with its unique charm and allure. The most famous of these is White Beach, which is divided into three stations: Station 1, Station 2, and Station 3. Station 1 boasts the finest sand and the most luxurious resorts, while Station 2 has the most shops and restaurants. Station 3, on the other hand, offers the most budget-friendly accommodation and a peaceful atmosphere.
• Boracay is known for its spectacular sunsets, which are among the best in the world. One of the best ways to enjoy them is by riding a paraw, a traditional Filipino sailboat. You can book a paraw sunset cruise and watch the sky turn into a mesmerizing display of orange, pink, and purple hues. You can also bring some drinks and snacks and make it a romantic or a party experience.

• Boracay is not only a haven for beach lovers, but also a sanctuary for rare and endangered species of wildlife. Among these are the flying foxes, the golden-crowned flying foxes, and the fruit bats. You can visit the bat caves on the island and witness these nocturnal creatures in their natural habitat. You can also gain insights into the conservation and protection efforts to preserve these species and their habitats.

Travel Tips:

If you’re planning a trip to Boracay soon, there are some things you should keep in mind to make the most of your visit. In the near future, the island is expecting to hold some exciting events and activities that you won’t want to miss. But first, it’s important to know the dos and don’ts when visiting Boracay to ensure that you’re respectful and responsible while enjoying your stay.

• Do make sure to respect the locals and the environment. It’s crucial that we all work together to preserve and protect Boracay’s natural beauty. Remember to dispose of waste properly and avoid littering, smoking, drinking, or collecting sand or pebbles on the beach. Be friendly and courteous to the local people, who are known for their hospitality and kindness.
• Don’t bring any pets or animals to the beachfront as they can disturb and contaminate the environment and other visitors. Also, avoid feeding or touching any wild animals you may encounter on the island such as monkeys, dogs, or cats.
• In the coming weeks and months, there will be some exciting events and activities to look forward to. Boracay has a diverse culinary scene, so make sure to try some of the local food and delicacies, such as seafood, barbecue, halo-halo, and calamansi muffins. Also, the island is known for its lively and vibrant atmosphere and has many events and festivals planned, such as the Ati-Atihan Festival, the Boracay International Dragon Boat Festival, and the LaBoracay Festival. Additionally, there are daily activities such as fire dancing, pub crawls, and foam parties that will keep you entertained throughout your stay.
• Remember, it’s important to follow the rules and regulations set in place to keep Boracay enjoyable for everyone. With these tips in mind, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience on this beautiful island.

Boracay is a dream destination that you should not miss. It has everything that you need for a perfect vacation: beautiful beaches, exciting activities, delicious food, and friendly people. Boracay is a place where you can have the best time of your life. I hope this blog post has helped you discover Boracay and inspired you to visit it soon. Thank you for reading and happy travels!