Boracay Island

Looking for the perfect beach for your vacation?
A magical shore with white sand and clear waters?
A serene place with breathtaking views and a variety of attractions?

Boracay Island is one of the most beautiful islands in central Philippines and is located just an hour’s flight from Manila. Throughout the island, you will find stunning golden beaches. As your boat anchors on one of its beaches and your foot steps onto the warm and soft sand, you’ll immediately feel the unique and amazing sensation of freedom and endless pleasure.

On this page, we’ve compiled everything you need to know about the island!

The Most Popular Destination in the Philippines!

Boracay is undeniably considered one of the most popular destinations in the Philippines for over two decades. The island offers much more than just a holiday destination as it has all those wonderful things tourists are looking for, whether they want fantastic beaches or phenomenal social events. If you are planning a vacation in Boracay and want it to be a memorable one, here are some things to remember, especially regarding places to visit, accommodation, and how much money you will need to spend on your vacation.

While Boracay is relatively small compared to the nearby islands, it’s very active in everything related to water sports, wild parties, bars, and restaurants of all kinds. In Boracay, you will meet people from all over the world, as the island of Boracay was awarded the title of the best island in the world not too long ago.

“Recommended Trip – ‘From the Terraces to Boracay’ – Click for More Info
When is the best time to visit Boracay? Seasons in the Philippines.”

Boracay Island is located in the Western Visayas, in the northwest corner of Panay Island. Boracay is essentially a coastal area that houses some of the most impressive beaches in the Philippines. The weather, like the rest of the Philippines, is tropical all year round with a few bouts of rain during the wet season.

Getting to Boracay:

Flights to Boracay come several times a day via two airports – Boracay doesn’t have its own airport, and one must arrive through airports on the nearby island:

Through Kalibo Airport (about two hours’ drive + short sailing) – Kalibo Airport is about a two-hour drive from the pier from which boats are taken to Boracay Island. Upon arriving at the pier, a boat trip of about 10 minutes takes you directly to Boracay.
Through Caticlan Airport (short drive + short sail) – Caticlan Airport is only about 20 minutes in total from Boracay Island, a short ride to the boat pier, and from there a 10-minute sail to the island.

The flight from Manila lasts about 80 minutes, and after landing, travelers continue (by boat) to their chosen beach.

The flights are operated by several airlines, mainly Cebu Pacific, Air Asia, and Philippine Airlines. There are also flights from other companies with small aircraft, as well as private ones, but these are the main ones.

There are several modes of transportation common on the island, such as open vans (Multi Cab), coasters, buses, and minivans that can transport you from the airport to the port in Caticlan.

The flight price mainly depends on the month in which you travel to Boracay. Once you arrive at the airport, you will spend several hundred pesos on transportation to reach Boracay’s beaches. If you manage to get a “cheap” ride at the exit, something more organized will cost at least about 1,000 pesos one way.

For pickups from the airport to various hotels, you can coordinate with us. There is an option for shared transportation and an option for private transportation directly to the hotel.

Where to Stay?

In Boracay, there is a selection of hotels ranging from the highest level to guesthouse level. Travelers interested in staying in luxury hotels can find hotels such as the Boracay Shangri-La. Five-star hotels are scattered along the beaches and all over the island in hidden spots.

Depending on the beach you want to explore, there are several hotels, cabins, and lodges where you can stay. On average, room prices range from $30 to $100 per night (usually basic to medium level). Of course, there are options for higher-level hotels, but those on a limited budget can still expect decent accommodation as long as they know where to look.

Hotels

Here are some of the places to consider for accommodation in Boracay (examples only for obtaining price levels):

Boracay Haven Resort: Located in the center of boat station number 2. The hotel has about 60 rooms of different types to choose from: Garden Suite, Premier Room, Deluxe Room, Pool-facing Deluxe Room, Deluxe Room with Balcony, Deluxe Room with Beach Access, Family Suite, Junior Family Suite, and Family Loft. Prices vary according to the season, but the price range is between $75 and $150 per night.

Boracay Holiday Resort: The hotel offers standard rooms, deluxe, suites, and a mini apartment which is also the most expensive unit and provides the comfort of a home away from home with two separate bedrooms and a kitchenette.

HeyJude Resort Hotel: For those looking for affordable accommodation, this hotel is a good choice. For less than $50 a night, you can get a room with a comfortable bed and bedding. Good value for money considering that breakfast is included, even for guests in the simplest rooms.

So far the simpler ones…

Of course, for those who want to indulge a bit more, you can find the hotel chain: Hennan, which has several resorts including: Hennan Lagoon, Hennan Garden, and the well-known Hennan regency by its other name, Boracay Regency. These resorts are very large, equipped with everything possible, from pools, saunas, spas to the smallest details. The only downside is that they are simply very large and sometimes there are too many guests. Recently, new resorts have been established in the group named: Henann Prime and Henann Crystal Sand, and they are still building more resorts on the island. Some already call it “Henann Island” :-).

Luxury hotels in Boracay –

For those who want to indulge a lot more, you can find the following resorts:

Discovery Shores – Located at station 1 and considered one of the most famous and luxurious resorts on the main beach.

The Lind – Also located at station 1 and considered as new and no less luxurious than Discovery.

Crimson Island resort – Located at its own station and adjacent to the Shangri-la and Mövenpick resorts, sharing the same beach. Its station is called station 0, and it has a luxurious private beach.

Shangri-la Boracay – Considered the best resort in Boracay and one of the best in the Philippines, especially luxurious and suitable for honeymoon couples, family trips in the Philippines, and of course groups in the Philippines.

So fun!

What’s the most fun thing to do in Boracay?

Boracay for those who love to chill on the beach: It’s undeniable that Boracay mainly attracts people who love white beaches. The good news is that there are many beaches and hotels to choose from, depending on the type of activity you are interested in (from simple bathing, some beaches also offer extreme water sports and other fun activities for hotel and beach guests).

Bulabog Beach: Located on the eastern side of the island, this is the perfect beach for water sports like windsurfing and kiteboarding. This beach strip constitutes a very small part of the island and is the right choice for those who love challenging water sports or prefer more secluded beaches. (See below for more details)

White Beach: Perhaps the most popular beach in Boracay, it is the longest beach strip and certainly the most touristy, whether by local or foreign tourists. Apart from the beach itself, the entire strip is populated with shops, restaurants, bars, and other businesses. There is no shortage of fun on this part of Boracay, regardless of the time of day or night. (See below for more details)

Puka Beach: Also known as Yapak Beach, Puka Beach is an 800-meter long beach strip that reaches the end of Boracay Island. Compared to most other beaches on the island, Yapak Beach has coarser sand due to the abundance of shells. For those who love stunning beaches but also seek privacy and tranquility, Puka Beach is the excellent choice for them.

Ilig-Iligan Beach: You can get to this part of Boracay in two ways. You can simply walk straight to the beach itself or join an island-hopping tour and stop at the beach.

Lapus Lapus Beach: At some point in every beach lover’s life, they start dreaming of their private beach where they can enjoy the sand and water without seeing a soul. If you don’t mind the somewhat complicated way to get to the beach, you can indulge yourself and enjoy the secluded beach for hours. If you are trying to make your way to the beach, please ask locals for directions.

Sugod Beach: One of Boracay’s hidden gems, located near a cliff, Sugod Beach is one of those places you come to appreciate nature at its best, sitting on a giant rock watching the perfect sunset.

Tambisaan Beach: Snorkeling enthusiasts will surely rush to this beach every day. The beach boasts a particularly rich coral garden and is a must-visit for those who love the underwater world.

There are other beaches worth mentioning here:

Banyugan Beach, Balinghai Beach, Cagban Beach, Tulubhan Beach.

Note: The text appears to cut off at the end, so some beach names are incomplete. If you have additional details or need more translations, please let me know!

Attractions and Activities in Boracay

Apart from “lying on your back”, entertainment, hotels, and swimming alongside white beaches, we have a large selection of attractions on Boracay Island for your enjoyment. The attractions are divided into three categories for you to choose from: land activities, marine activities, and aerial activities.

Island Hopping: Although Boracay is essentially a small island, it still offers many places to visit. One way to make the most of the trip on the island is through beach hopping. In recent years, exclusive island-hopping tours have become very popular because they allow tourists to enjoy the islands and sights only with the people they are with, meaning family and friends. The best part of island hopping is that this tour presents the rare pristine nature to the traveler – it is important to note that island hopping in Boracay is indeed very nice, but on other islands like Bohol and Palawan, these tours are much better.

Island Jumping in Boracay – (In special events, the sail is done with this boat)

Water Activities in Boracay

Boracay is not just known for its white sand beaches, nightlife, and resorts. The island offers a diverse range of water activities for tourists to enjoy. Here’s a detailed description of some of these exciting water activities:

1. Sunset Sailing: The crystal blue waters offer so much more depth for those willing to explore. Scuba diving in Boracay is a must, especially because of the underwater caves, tunnels, and, of course, coral reefs. Every dive presents a new adventure waiting to unfold.

2. Parasailing: If you’re looking to see the world from a completely different perspective, parasailing in Boracay is the way to go. While some may see it as a challenging sport, everyone should try it at least once. Don’t forget to bring a camera, so the local crew can capture you soaring in the sky!

3. Flyfish: Think of this as an exhilarating version of the banana boat ride. This activity is especially enjoyable when done with family and friends. To truly understand the thrill, you need to experience it for yourself. But once you do, there’s a good chance you’ll want to do it again. Not suitable for the faint-hearted, but perfect for adrenaline junkies.

4. Kayaking & Paddleboarding: There’s never been a more fun way to get a full-body workout. If you’re in Boracay and want to maintain your fitness while also enjoying the waters, kayaking or paddleboarding is the activity to try. Whether you’re solo or with friends and family, it’s an enjoyable experience. Many hotels offer it as one of the top activities for tourists.

Water Activities in Boracay

Banana Boat in Boracay: One of the most popular water activities in Boracay is the banana boat ride. Here’s a description:

1. Banana Boat Ride: Experience the thrill of skimming over the azure waters of Boracay on a large inflatable “banana.” Perfect for families and groups of friends, the banana boat ride combines speed, balance, and waves to provide an exciting experience. As the speedboat pulls the inflatable banana, riders try to stay on as it bounces over waves and makes sharp turns. Laughter, splashes, and the occasional unplanned dip into the water make this activity a favorite among both adults and kids.

Safety is always a priority, so participants are provided with life jackets. There’s typically a photographer capturing the fun, so you can take home memories of your wild ride. The combination of Boracay’s clear blue waters, the tropical sun, and the exhilarating ride make the banana boat an activity not to be missed.

The Flying Fish – Flyfish

Helmet Diving

For those who don’t know how to swim (or are uncertain about their swimming skills) but still want to enjoy the wonderful underwater nature that Boracay has to offer. Diving with a helmet allows people to be several meters underwater and observe marine life and plants. You can see tropical fish and marine plants that grow only in tropical climates.

Food Tour

Anyone vacationing on a tropical island with a plethora of seafood will undoubtedly be more forgiving when it comes to their menu choices. Boracay offers countless lunch and dinner options, and of course, all-you-can-eat seafood at special prices. If you love fish, crabs, shrimps, squids, and the like, Boracay is a great place to dine with friends and family right on the beach. Hotels and restaurants offer dishes from the Filipino cuisine – another reason not to count calories when vacationing in Boracay.

Nightlife

Boracay is somewhat similar to Tel Aviv in certain respects. For one, the island never sleeps, especially if you’re on one of the main beaches. Nightlife in Boracay is cool and fun, with ever-changing attractions like live performances and band shows.

Don’t Miss! Quick Tips for Maximizing Your Stay in Boracay!

Safety and Security

If you’re a foreign tourist (as is the case anywhere), always ensure you keep an eye on your valuables. While many locals are friendly and courteous, the dense crowd, especially on certain beaches, might increase the risk of losing your belongings at some point. Ensure your wallet and mobile phone are safe and secure.

If you ever find yourself lost or think you are, ask the locals for directions. Most Filipinos understand and speak English, so you’ll always find friendly faces willing to guide you.

Currency Exchange

The Philippine peso is the only accepted currency in Boracay (except in some hotels or stores that might accept foreign currency), so ensure you have enough local currency for your entire trip. If you find yourself short of money, there are hotels and local changers willing to exchange your cash. There are also ATMs in the D-Mall area where you can withdraw local currency.

Finding the Best Deals for Flights and Hotels

Like any other tourist destination, there are peak and off-peak seasons. In the Philippines, the summer peak runs from mid-March to the end of May. If you want to save on flights and hotels, consider traveling between June and October.

Boracay Island offers everything that any renowned tourist beach worldwide does, and perhaps even more. Staying in Boracay is especially delightful, and the island’s residents are as warm as the tropical climate that millions of tourists around the world so adore.

The central coast of Boracay is divided into four main stations and are named:

Stations 0,1,2,3 in Boracay and other beaches in Boracay.

For over twenty years, Boracay has held the leading spot in the list of sought-after tourist destinations in the Philippines, and there are many good reasons for this. While the island itself is small compared to other popular destinations worldwide, the number of options available to travelers in terms of hotels and activities will astonish even the most experienced tourists. Staying and visiting Boracay are life pleasures not to be missed. To make the most of such a trip, ensure you’re familiar with the destination before heading there.

Continuing the comprehensive guide to Boracay, its beaches, and all it has to offer. The beaches, as well as the hotels, are not ranked in a particular order but appear based on their specific location on the island.

Station 1:

This is the widest part of White Beach, hosting some of the island’s most impressive hotels. Station One is the place to go if you have money to spare and want only the best hotels available. Many hotels in Station One are situated right on the beach and enjoy the most facilities on the island. Here are some of the hotels in this area:

Discovery Shores – Modern design in a tropical paradise, a tourist destination for foreign and local celebrities alike. Just like White Beach with its blue and magical waters (visible from every suite’s window), Discovery Shores offers spacious and well-designed rooms that exude perfect style.

The Villa – A home away from home is the feeling this villa gives to its guests. A three-story villa with three bedrooms and a pool. Located right on the beach, just a 2-minute walk from the water. Privacy and tranquility are guaranteed in this type of accommodation, with breathtaking views from the pool and bedrooms.

The Lind – One of the most luxurious resorts in Boracay, its reputation for service and accommodation is unparalleled. Its beachfront section of White Beach is undoubtedly the quietest on the island, a sort of refuge, yet it is not far from less luxurious beaches. The resort is tree-covered and can satisfy even the most discerning tourists. At night, the resort is even more picturesque with soft, not too bright lighting. Many guests find the resort’s atmosphere romantic and calming.

If you prefer the very best parts of White Beach, Station One is the place to stay in Boracay. It boasts a prime location, and the experience of staying in the hotels in this area is unparalleled.

Station 2:

Modern and trendy are two of the most fitting ways to describe this part of Boracay. While Station 1 is characterized by excellent accommodation, Station 2 is the entertainment, shopping, and dining hub of the island. It’s very accessible via the main road, especially if coming from Station 1. A significant difference between the two stations is that Station 2 can sometimes be overwhelmingly crowded, so if you want a quieter area with a clean and spacious beach, it’s worth booking a hotel in Station 1.

Attractions

D’Mall – Instead of a single large building, Station 2 has D’Mall, a melting pot of businesses. Hundreds of shops, clubs, and restaurants can be found in this area, and tourists tend to visit at least once or twice during their stay on the island.

The restaurants in the area feature a wide variety of cuisines, both local and international. Several restaurants offer signature dishes with unique seafood to Boracay, in addition to Filipino, American, Middle Eastern, and Asian dishes. The seafood selection is especially impressive as it’s exceptionally fresh, straight from the ocean (less than 12 hours after being caught), and they are cooked to perfection.

Nightlife in Station 2 is an unmissable attraction. The beach turns into an open party area where people can dance, drink, and laugh all night with friends and family. Shops mainly offer souvenirs, clothing, and accessories. Moreover, you can find sports and water activity equipment in shops, such as swimming, snorkeling, deep diving, and more.

Station 3:

This is the more remote area of White Beach (though all parts of the beach are accessible with a short walk) and the least developed. However, in recent years, several mid-to-high-end hotels have been built in the area to attract more visitors. True, these hotels aren’t as luxurious as those in Station 1, but the beach is perhaps the most pristine of all the island’s beaches. The advantage of staying in this area is that since Station 3 is relatively far from the main tourist attractions, it offers all the peace and tranquility one could ask for. Additionally, the hotels offer excellent value for money, even if they are relatively basic compared to the hotels in Stations 1 and 2.

The Beaches

White Beach – Typically considered the crown jewel of Boracay, thanks to its amazingly clear waters and soft, white sand. Anyone who has ever heard of Boracay has surely also heard about White Beach and all its wonders. The four-kilometer stretch of white shoreline is seen as a paradise among maritime sports enthusiasts and beachgoers. Whether you’re looking for a comfortable spot to laze on the beach or seeking the ultimate adrenaline-filled thrills, this is the place to be.

For those visiting Boracay for the first time, they will delight in this slice of paradise not only for the beauty of the beach but also for its accessibility. It’s very easy to get to White Beach, whether you’re coming directly from the airport or from one of the other beaches on the island.

This is undoubtedly the most developed and best-maintained beach of Boracay. During two seasons every year, hundreds, if not thousands, of tourists come to White Beach to enjoy the shore and cool off in the water. As a result of this large influx of visitors, the local government, with the help of the area’s commerce council, makes concerted efforts to keep the beach clean from garbage and potential contaminants.

While the hotels in this part of Boracay are undoubtedly of the highest standard, the food prices vary as much as the people visiting the island. For gastronomic adventurers, there are large and small restaurants offering exotic dishes from Filipino cuisine. On the other hand, those with more refined tastes can indulge in delightful dishes at some of the best restaurants in the area that focus on the freshest seafood, exquisite ingredients, and fresh meat.

There’s never a shortage of things to do at White Beach, whether it’s snorkeling, kayaking, swimming, diving, or jet skiing. The waters in this part of Boracay were naturally designed for fun.

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