Boracay
Boracay, Philippines is a world-renowned tropical island paradise known for its stunning white sand beaches, crystal-clear blue waters, and vibrant nightlife.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Boracay in the Philippines largely depends on what you want from your trip. The island's tropical climate can be divided into two seasons: the Amihan or dry season, and the Habagat or wet season.
Amihan (Dry Season) - November to April: These months are usually the best time to visit Boracay if you prefer a sun-drenched holiday with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. During these months, temperatures are a comfortable 25 to 32 degrees Celsius (77 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit), and rainfall is less frequent. The most popular months during the dry season are December to February, when the climate is slightly cooler. The water during this season is calm, which is perfect for water sports like diving, snorkeling, sailing, and kiteboarding.
Habagat (Wet Season) - May to October: If you want to avoid crowds and take advantage of lower prices in accommodations and flights, you might consider visiting during the wet season. Keep in mind, though, that rain can be heavy, especially from July to September, which could disrupt outdoor activities and travel plans. On the positive side, the island is less crowded during these months, and the landscape is lush and green. The water can be a bit rough, but it can be ideal for activities such as windsurfing and kiteboarding.
Also, remember to take into account the local events and festivals when planning your trip. The Ati-Atihan Festival in January is one of the most vibrant festivals in the Philippines, and Boracay's annual dragon boat race in April is a spectacle worth witnessing.
How to Get There
Getting to Boracay involves a combination of air travel, land travel, and sea travel. Here's a detailed step-by-step guide on how to get to Boracay from Manila, which is the usual jump-off point for most international tourists:
Air Travel: The first step is to take a flight from Manila to either Caticlan (Godofredo P. Ramos Airport) or Kalibo. Caticlan Airport is the closest to Boracay and the most convenient option, but flights to this airport might be more expensive due to its smaller size. The larger Kalibo International Airport often has cheaper flights, but it is further away and requires a longer land trip to reach the ferry port to Boracay.
Land Travel:
From Caticlan Airport: From the airport, you can take a tricycle (a local form of transportation similar to a rickshaw) or a short walk to reach the Caticlan Jetty Port, which is just a few minutes away.
From Kalibo Airport: If you land at Kalibo, you'll need to take a bus or van to the Caticlan Jetty Port, which is about 1.5 to 2 hours away.
Sea Travel: At Caticlan Jetty Port, you will need to pay for the boat ticket, terminal fee, and environmental fee to board a boat that will take you to Boracay Island. The boat ride typically takes about 10 to 20 minutes. Upon arrival at the Cagban Port or Tambisaan Port (depending on the weather and season) in Boracay, you can take a tricycle or e-tricycle to your hotel.
Best Beaches in Boracay
Boracay is famous for its powdery white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. Here are some of the best beaches you should consider visiting on your trip:
White Beach: Boracay's most famous beach is known for its stunningly white sand and beautiful sunsets. It's divided into Station 1, 2, and 3. Station 1 has the widest beachfront and some of the island's high-end resorts. Station 2 is the commercial and geographical center of White Beach, while Station 3 is quieter and more laid-back.
Puka Shell Beach (Yapak Beach): Named after the Puka shells found in its sand, this beach is less crowded than White Beach. It's the perfect place to enjoy Boracay's natural beauty in a more serene setting.
Diniwid Beach: Located north of White Beach, Diniwid Beach offers a quieter atmosphere. It's a great spot if you're seeking tranquillity but still want to be relatively close to the action.
Bulabog Beach: Known as the 'back beach' of Boracay, Bulabog Beach is a favorite spot for water sports enthusiasts, especially wind and kite surfers, because of its strong winds from November to April.
Ilig-Iligan Beach: A quieter beach located on the eastern side of the island, it's a good spot for snorkeling as it's less crowded with boats compared to some other areas.
Tambisaan Beach: Another good snorkeling spot, Tambisaan Beach is where you'll arrive if you take a ferry to Boracay during the Habagat season.
Balinghai Beach: A small and secluded beach that's perfect for couples seeking privacy. It's part of a private resort, but it's open to the public for a fee.
Punta Bunga Beach: This is a private beachfront for guests of the high-end resorts located there, including Shangri-La's Boracay Resort and Spa, but it's possible to visit if you ask for permission.
Lagutan Beach: A peaceful retreat away from the crowds of the main beaches, Lagutan Beach is a great place for beachcombing and enjoying a serene environment.
Please note that some of these beaches may have access restrictions or require entrance fees.
Top 10 Attractions in Boracay
D'Mall: Located in Station 2, it's a large open-air market offering a variety of shops, restaurants, bars, and entertainment.
Ariel's Point: This eco-adventure destination offers cliff diving, kayaking, snorkeling, and trekking opportunities for the adventurous spirits.
Willy's Rock: A unique volcanic formation near Station 1 on White Beach, where a statue of the Virgin Mary stands.
Mount Luho: The highest point on the island offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Boracay and its surroundings.
Boracay Butterfly Gardens: A sanctuary for various species of butterflies, providing a tranquil break from the beach.
Crystal Cove Island: A small island close to Boracay famous for its beautiful coves and caves.
Magic Island: A lesser-known spot for cliff diving, which is a bit quieter than Ariel's Point.
Boracay Oceanarium: This underground aquarium beneath Crown Regency Resort is a great attraction for families with kids.
Boracay Wildlife Expo: Another family-friendly attraction where you can see different types of birds and animals.
Boracay Dream Land Theme Park: An amusement and adventure park featuring virtual reality games, a 7D interactive movie theater, and a trick art museum.
Top 11 Activities to do in Boracay
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: With an array of tropical fish and coral, Boracay offers some of the best snorkeling and diving in the Philippines.
Kiteboarding and Windsurfing: Bulabog Beach on the eastern side of the island is a hotspot for these watersports, particularly between November and April.
Sunset Sailing and Island Hopping: Renting a traditional Paraw (local sailboat) to explore the surrounding islands or to enjoy Boracay's stunning sunset is a must-do.
Zipline and Cable Car: Get your adrenaline fix and a panoramic view of Boracay at the same time by trying out the zipline and cable car at Fairways & Bluewater or at Bulabog Beach.
Spa Treatments: Boracay offers plenty of options for relaxing and rejuvenating spa treatments.
Boracay Pub Crawl: If you're into nightlife, don't miss joining the pub crawl to explore the vibrant night scene of Boracay.
Mermaid Swimming Lessons: At the Philippine Mermaid Swimming Academy, you can actually learn how to swim like a mermaid!
Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP): A fun and peaceful way to explore the island's clear waters.
Segway Tours: A unique way to explore the island on land.
Horse Riding: Explore Boracay's inland jungles and beaches on horseback.
Visit Local Art Shops: Check out local crafts at places like the Aklan Pina Cloth Weaving or the Motag Living Museum.
Best Shopping in Boracay
Shopping in Boracay can be an interesting experience, with options ranging from high-end boutiques to local markets where you can find unique and traditional Filipino items. Here are some of the best places to shop in Boracay:
D'Mall: This open-air market, located at Station 2, is one of the most popular shopping destinations on the island. It has a large number of shops where you can find clothes, souvenirs, beach essentials, and more. There are also several restaurants and eateries within D'Mall.
D'Talipapa Market: Also located at Station 2, D'Talipapa is a vibrant local market known for fresh seafood, fruits, and vegetables. There's also a section where you can buy souvenirs, handicrafts, and beachwear.
CityMall Boracay: This is Boracay's first full-scale commercial mall, where you can find a supermarket, boutiques, food outlets, and even a cinema. It's a bit removed from the busy beachfront area, located on the main road in Barangay Yapak.
E-Mall: This shopping complex located in Station 3 offers a variety of retail stores selling clothes, handicrafts, and souvenirs. It's smaller and less crowded than D'Mall.
Plazoleta Shopping Plaza: Located in Station 3, this plaza offers an array of shops and stalls selling clothes, souvenirs, and local handicrafts.
Boracay Uptown: Located in Station 2, it is a commercial complex with international dining and shopping establishments.
Crafts of Boracay Supermarket: It's a popular store where you can buy groceries, toiletries, snacks, and even souvenirs. It's open 24 hours and is located in Station 3.
Local Art Shops and Boutiques: Check out local crafts at various art shops and boutiques around the island. You'll find a variety of handmade items, local fabrics, jewelry, and more.
When shopping in Boracay, keep an eye out for locally made items like woven goods, shell crafts, and natural fabrics, which make excellent souvenirs. Also, remember that in some markets and stalls, bargaining is common and can be part of the shopping experience.
Entertainment & Nightlife
Boracay is well-known for its vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene. The island is teeming with an array of bars, clubs, restaurants, and live music venues. Here are some notable places to visit and experiences to consider:
Epic Boracay: One of the most popular spots on the island, Epic Boracay is a bar by day and turns into a nightclub after sundown. It's famous for its beachfront parties and often hosts international DJs.
White Beach: The entire stretch of White Beach, particularly near Station 2, becomes a lively scene in the evening with fire dancers, live bands, and beachfront bars serving cocktails and beers.
Boracay PubCrawl: This is a fun way to explore Boracay's nightlife. It's essentially a bar-hopping tour that takes you to different bars and clubs on the island, allowing you to meet new people and enjoy the local party scene.
Exit Bar: Located near Station 2, Exit Bar is a local favorite known for its chill atmosphere, affordable drinks, and great music.
Paraw Beach Club: A great place for sundowners, Paraw Beach Club offers cocktails and beers with a beautiful sunset view. It also transforms into a lively club with DJ sets in the evening.
Cocomangas Shooter Bar: Famous for its 15-shot challenge, Cocomangas is a must-visit for those looking to party. If you complete the challenge, you get your name on a plaque on the wall.
Prisma: A modern tropical bar located in Hue Hotel and Resorts, Prisma serves a variety of tropical cocktails and spirits.
Wave Bar and Lounge: Located at Henann Regency Resort & Spa, this upscale bar offers an extensive drink menu and a more refined nightlife experience.
Live Music: Many bars and restaurants around the island, like Loco Frio, offer live music performances ranging from acoustic sets to full bands.
Fire Dancing (Poi Dancing): A must-see in Boracay, fire dancers perform along White Beach every night, mesmerizing onlookers with their incredible skills.
It's worth noting that in recent years, local authorities have implemented certain regulations to maintain peace and order. One such rule is the 3 AM closing time for all nightlife establishments, and another is a ban on drinking and smoking on White Beach.
Local Cuisine
The local cuisine of Boracay is a delightful blend of traditional Filipino dishes, fresh seafood, and international influences. Here's an overview of what to expect when it comes to local cuisine in Boracay:
Seafood: Given Boracay's island status, seafood is abundant. You can often select your preferred fresh catch of the day from local markets like D'Talipapa, which restaurants will then cook according to your preference. Popular seafood dishes include grilled squid, garlic shrimp, and kinilaw (a Filipino dish similar to ceviche).
Lechon: This is a popular dish throughout the Philippines, and Boracay is no exception. Lechon is a whole roasted pig, often served at celebrations, but also available at many local eateries.
Adobo: Another classic Filipino dish, Adobo consists of meat (usually pork or chicken), marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and spices, then braised until tender.
Chori Burger: This is a must-try local street food in Boracay. It's basically a burger made with chorizo (a type of sausage) served on a bun with a sweet-spicy sauce.
Halo-Halo: This popular Filipino dessert is a mixture of crushed ice, evaporated milk, and various ingredients like sweet beans, jelly, fruit slices, leche flan, and ube (purple yam) ice cream. It's the perfect refreshing treat for Boracay's tropical climate.
Calamansi Muffins: This is a signature pastry you can find at Real Coffee & Tea Cafe in Boracay. Calamansi is a small citrus fruit widely used in the Philippines, and these muffins have a unique, tangy sweetness.
Local Fruits: Don't miss out on trying the local tropical fruits such as mangoes, which are some of the sweetest in the world, bananas, coconuts, and the more exotic durian and rambutan when in season.
International Cuisine: Aside from the local cuisine, Boracay also offers a wide range of international food options, from Italian and Greek to Korean and Indian, owing to its status as a world-class tourist destination.
Remember, dining in Boracay can be as diverse as you want it to be. You can find high-end restaurants serving exquisite dishes, casual beachfront eateries with stunning views, and vibrant food markets offering fresh produce and seafood. Enjoy exploring the culinary delights that Boracay has to offer!
Accommodations
Boracay is divided into several areas, each with its own unique vibe. Here are some of the best areas to stay in Boracay, depending on what you're looking for:
Station 1: This area is known for its luxurious resorts and quieter atmosphere. It's the perfect place to stay if you're looking for tranquility and don't mind paying a bit more for your accommodation. Some of the best resorts, like the Shangri-La and Friday's Boracay, are located in this area. This part of the beach also has the finest sand and a more spacious beach area.
Station 2: If you want to be in the heart of the action, Station 2 is the place to stay. This is where you'll find a high concentration of restaurants, bars, and shops. It's also where D'Mall, the island's main shopping center, is located. Accommodation options here range from budget hostels to mid-range and upscale hotels.
Station 3: This is the quietest among the three stations. Accommodations here tend to be more budget-friendly. It's the perfect place to stay if you're looking for a more laid-back and relaxed atmosphere but still want to be within walking distance of the action in Station 2.
Bulabog Beach: On the eastern side of the island, Bulabog Beach is the top spot for windsurfing and kiteboarding. It's a great place to stay if you're into these sports or want to give them a try. Accommodations here range from budget to luxury.
Diniwid Beach: North of Station 1, Diniwid Beach is a quieter area perfect for those looking for tranquility without being too far from the main attractions. There are several resorts and guesthouses in this area, most of them offering a more relaxed and secluded vibe.
Yapak: Located in the northern part of the island, Yapak is home to some luxury resorts, including the Shangri-La's Boracay Resort and Spa and the Fairways & Bluewater Resort. The gorgeous Puka Shell Beach is also located in this area.
Itinerary
Three Blissful Days in Boracay: An Ideal Itinerary
Day 1: Explore White Beach and Get Acquainted with the Island
Morning: Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at your resort. Afterward, take a stroll along White Beach to get a feel for the island's atmosphere. Consider stopping by Willy's Rock, a volcanic formation with a chapel atop, one of the most photographed spots in Boracay.
Afternoon: After lunch at a beachfront restaurant, spend your afternoon enjoying the water. You can rent a paddleboard, try snorkeling, or just swim in the turquoise sea. Don't forget to apply a good amount of sunblock!
Evening: Have dinner at D'Talipapa, where you can buy fresh seafood and have it cooked at nearby restaurants. Follow your meal with a relaxing massage from one of the many spas available in the area.
Day 2: Embrace the Adventurous Side of Boracay
Morning: Start your day early with a trip to Bulabog Beach for a kiteboarding or windsurfing lesson. It's the perfect way to kick off an adventurous day.
Afternoon: After a hearty lunch, go on an island hopping tour. This usually includes visits to places like Crystal Cove Island and Crocodile Island, and activities like snorkeling and swimming.
Evening: Return to your resort to freshen up, then head to Station 2 for dinner. You could try the popular Two Seasons' oyster sisig. After dinner, join the Boracay PubCrawl to explore some of Boracay's best bars and meet fellow travelers.
Day 3: Discover the Quiet Side of the Island
Morning: Visit Puka Shell Beach in the morning. It's less crowded and offers a more serene environment compared to White Beach. Have a picnic breakfast and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
Afternoon: Spend the rest of your afternoon at your leisure. You could try a cooking class, visit the Boracay Wildlife Expo, or just relax at your resort's pool. Alternatively, you could take a tricycle tour to explore the rest of the island.
Evening: Cap off your trip with a memorable dinner at one of Boracay's fine-dining establishments, such as the cliff-side restaurant at Nami Resort. Then, head over to the beachfront for the fire dancing shows, an exciting spectacle and a perfect ending to your Boracay adventure.
