Let’s not beat around the bush, the beaches in Boracay are some of the best in the Philippines, if not in South East Asia. Crystal clear, unbelievably blue, warm and shallow waters and powdery white sand all make a pretty spectacular beach holiday.
It’s no surprise that if you’re visiting this beautiful little island, it’s for the amazing beaches in Boracay. In fact, many people choose only to see the beaches of Boracay and don’t make it off the Island to see the rest of the Philippines.
To be honest, having enjoyed the beaches in Boracay first-hand, I can hardly blame them. It’s the place where I would have given my left arm to stay a little longer!
It’s no wonder people choose the beaches of Boracay to spend their precious annual leave. Guaranteed sunny weather, all the water sports and activities you can imagine, beach bars, clubs, cafes and restaurants a plenty and some absolutely stunning villas, resorts, bungalows and even hostels to stay in. Boracay is the master of both letting your hair down and achieving total relaxation.
So, here are my favourite beaches in Boracay and my recommendations of where to stay, where to eat, some travel tips and my favourite things to do if you can fit it in around your suntan regime!
If you’re visiting the beaches of Boracay as part of a backpacking tour of the Philippines, don’t forget to read my Manual; Backpacking the Philippines for hints and tips for your trip around this amazing country!
The Best Beaches in Boracay
On April 26 2018, the Philippine government announced that Boracay would be closed for a period of six months after the President called it a “cesspool” with videos going viral of sewage draining directly into the sea.
Since then, flights have been scaled back, smoking and drinking on the beaches in Boracay are now prohibited and the number of tourists has been limited to ensure the island’s capacity is not exceeded.
The successful clean-up of the beaches of Boracay and the environmental rehabilitation of the Island itself have caused it to become a model for sustainable tourism.
It has kickstarted a culture of environmentally conscious tourism throughout the Philippines with similar programmes suggested for El Nido in Palawan, Panglao and Manila.
White Beach Boracay
It would be rude not to start with White Beach which is often regarded as the Boracay beach as it appears in nearly every photograph of this amazing island!
White Beach is Boracay’s crown jewel and is recognised not only as one of the best beaches in Boracay but as one of the best beaches in the whole of the Philippines. It has been voted as one of the best beaches in the World by Trip Advisor over the years.
White beach is spectacular and truly lives up to its name and it is one of the only beaches in Boracay, or in the places we have travelled, that has truly blown us both away.
White Beach is located on the west side of the island and is approximately 4 kilometres long. White Beach is separated into three “stations” which can be differentiated by the restaurants and resorts which line them.
Station 1 is home to the fancy resorts and has the best stretch of beach and then the beach decreases in quality as you go down the stations with station 3 being the least desirable. However, Station 3 is still stunning and in my view, it’s all much of a muchness, and the entire beach is amazing. As you can see, I’m a big fan.
Station 2 is where you can find many restaurants and nightlife, along with the largest shopping centre D’Mall. Station 3 is a little quieter but a haven for budget backpackers due to its varied and cheap accommodation.
It takes around 10 minutes to walk between the stations so just because you’re staying in station 3 doesn’t mean you can’t easily explore station 1. We walked up to the Station 1 beach with no issues from Station 3!
Of course, as with any top tourist attraction, White Beach is the most touristy of the beaches in Boracay. However, since 2018, the number of tourists being allowed into the island to visit the beaches in Boracay has been limited which limits the crowds on this beautiful beach.
The 2018 clear-up also demolished all establishments within 30m of the shoreline meaning there is far more room on the beach now which makes it feel far less crowded.
One thing that must be mentioned, is White Beach’s famous sunsets. They are a sight to behold and watching the silhouettes of the sailboats against the fiery orange sky was unforgettable. Perfect for enjoying with a cold San Mig light and great company.
Diniwid Beach Boracay
A 10-minute walk from Station 1, Diniwid Beach is hailed as the most secluded of the beaches in Boracay.
Much like White Beach, Diniwid boasts white sand, still, turquoise water and an uncrowded and serene atmosphere. It is separated from White Beach by a big cliff so you can’t see one from the other but they are connected by a small footpath at the edge of the cliff!
Diniwid beach is the perfect place to really chill out as it is free from water sports and is a little more removed from the action and noise of White Beach. This is probably because people think the cliff marks the end of the road – you’re in on the secret!
Its location is also spectacular, nestled in between cliffs, rocks and palm trees and the snorkelling at Diniwid is supposedly much better than at white beach – the fish appear to prefer peace and quiet too! It’s a real tropical paradise.
The downside of the beach (and this comes down to personal preference I think) is that there are rocks in the water, which makes getting into the water a little more challenging than it is on White Beach where it is sand all the way into the water so might be a consideration for you when deciding if you want to visit.
Puka Beach Boracay
Puka Beach, also known locally as Puka Shell Beach, is located to the north of the Island, and as well as being one of the best beaches in Boracay, is also a beautiful hidden gem. It’s the beach in Boracay which has maintained a more rugged and untouched beauty.
Puka Beach is around a 20-minute ride from the centre and I’d recommend that you take a tricycle (if you’ve not rented a Motorcycle/moped already!) which will set you back around 150 Peso ($3/£1.50).
The sand on Puka Beach is not as powdery as it is on White Beach due to the small bits of coral in it. It gets its name from the puka shells which used to line the 800-meter-long beach.
Whilst it is the quieter of the beaches in Boracay, there are still a couple of arty stores selling souvenirs (you are still in Boracay after all) and food and drink that you’ll want on the beach during the day.
There are also a couple of restaurants and bars which are a bit pricey (in Philippines terms!) but a nice way to enjoy the beach.
At the entrance, you’ll find the most touristy part of the beach – the Puka Beach sign which was made by the locals using drift wood, shells and coral to suit the aesthetic of the beach. Here you’ll find the Instagram crowd!
The best time to visit the beach is from late afternoon till sunset when it is much quieter and a romantic spot to enjoy the sunset. Just don’t leave it too late as it could be tricky to get a tricycle back into town.
Bulabog Beach Boracay
Bulabog beach is a long, wide Boracay beach that benefits from a calmer atmosphere than that offered at White Beach.
Located on the eastern side of the island, it is easily accessible from all Stations (approximately a 10-minute walk from Station 3, 15 minutes from Station 2, 20 minutes from Station 1) on foot or if by tricycle if you don’t fancy the walk in the heat.
Bulabog beach is one of the beaches in Boracay that offers something completely different to the chill, swim, turn repeat routine that is so easy to settle into on the Island.
People from around the world visit Bulabog beach because of its perfect kite and windsurfing conditions.
Due to the wind and fairly strong currents (and the risk of being knocked out by a surfboard), it is not the best beach in Bohol for swimming.
It is still a beautiful beach for sunbathing so if you fancy a change of scenery from White Beach, then Bulabog Beach is still a great beach for relaxing.
As the party scene can mostly be found at White Beach, Bulabog beach is the perfect place to read a book and soak up the sun in peace.
Other Beaches in Boracay
Besides the four beaches above, there are some other spectacular beaches in Boracay for you to explore if you are on the island for a little longer!
To the north of the island, you can head to Ilig Iligan beach either on foot or via one of the island hopping tours which I mention below. It is secluded and off the beaten track with some great snorkelling.
If you want more great snorkelling then head to Tambisaan Beach to the southeast of the island. It has the best snorkelling on the island with several coral gardens just off the shore.
If you want to head to a true local beach, then head to Manoc Manoc Beach. You may recognise it as it is next to the jetty port where the ferry brings over the tourists visiting Boracay. It is not as picturesque as some of the other beaches but as a result, is much quieter and more authentic.
If you like an adventure off the beaten track then head to Cagban Beach. It is in the far south-west of the island and is accessible by a narrow, unpaved road near Cagban port. It is a small cove but you will likely find that you have it all to yourself and so for some peace and quiet, it is worth the trip.
After these beaches, you are into the private beaches of Boracay including Balinghai Beach, Punta Bunga Beach and Lapuz Lapuz Beach.
If you want a unique dining experience in Boracay then head to Balinghai Beach which is part of the Balinghai Beach Resort. The beach is only accessible at low tide but the Balinghai Beach Resort restaurant sits on the beach giving breath-taking views whilst you dine. As Balinghai Beach is part of the resort, there is an entrance fee to access the beach which is redeemable as a credit against a meal in the restaurant.
Next to Balinghai Beach, you will find Punta Bunga Beach, another private beach this time owned by the Sol Marina Resort. It is a nice sandy beach but with an entrance fee (this time not redeemable against food!) of around 500 pesos ($10/£7.50), it offers nothing more than the public beaches in Boracay so only really to be visited if you are looking for a full house in Boracay beach bingo!
Activities at the Beaches in Boracay
Besides the incredible beaches in Boracay, there are various other activities in Boracay to keep you entertained throughout your stay on this slice of paradise!
Below I have listed a few of my favourite activities in Boracay to offer some inspiration for your stay!
Helmet Diving
Helmet diving is one of the most popular activities in Boracay and particularly amongst those of us who are not seasoned scuba divers!
Helmet diving involves you wearing a very large (and heavy!) diver’s helmet and being lowered into the water. The weight of the helmet pushes you all the way to the sea bed and a hose provides a constant supply of air into the helmet.
Once you hit the bottom, you are free to stroll around on the sea bed and explore the reefs and amazing tropical fish that you find down there!
You will be taken out to the dive location on a speed boat and then fitted with the helmet before descending some steps off the side of the boat to begin your float down to the sea bed.
You will be accompanied by a professional diver who will also take some photos of you in this underwater wonderland!
It really was one of our favourite activities in Boracay and it was a surreal experience for us as we aren’t (yet!) experienced scuba divers!
Parasailing
A beachside classic but this is another one of the very popular activities that can be enjoyed on many of the beaches in Boracay. As Boracay is quite a small island, you will have full views over the whole island from your lofty position!
You can parasail individually or in tandem and it offers some amazing photo opportunities of one of the most amazing paradise islands in the world!
Scuba Diving
If helmet diving has simply whetted your appetite for more underwater exploring, then why not try another of the more popular activities in Boracay; scuba diving!
Boracay offers some of the best diving in the whole of the Philippines and so those of you who are experienced divers will have the chance to explore some of the most amazing underwater landscapes in this part of the world.
Equally, if you are a beginner then you can still dive as part of a scuba diving adventure which is guided by a PADI-certified divemaster. You will be briefed on the basics of diving, given a full demonstration of all the equipment and then offered the chance to practice in some shallow water.
Once you are ready, you will set off in a boat to explore some of the amazing reefs and underwater habitats off the coast of Boracay. This is one of the most popular activities in Boracay for beginner and experienced divers alike!
Bella Spa Experience
If you are looking for a break from the water sports and from the beaches in Boracay then perhaps a luxurious and relaxing spa experience is for you!
One of the most indulgent activities in Boracay and perfect for refreshing yourself after all that sunbathing and fun in the sun!
Bella Isa is one of the best spas on Boracay and offers a huge range of different treatments from a full body massage to hand and foot treatments and a spa experience.
Certainly one of the most relaxing activities in Boracay; and one of my favourites!
Boracay Island Hopping Tour
If you have been on the island hopping tour in El Nido, Palawan then you will need no convincing that island hopping is one of the coolest activities in Boracay!
Hop aboard and visit some of the most beautiful beaches in Boracay as well as the amazing Magic Island. At Magic Island, you will be able to try some cliff diving, visit Crystal Cove to see some local artefacts and indulge in a delicious grilled buffet lunch as part of the tour.
You can join a public tour or if you prefer, book a private tour and enjoy this trip on your own schedule!
Boracay Sunset Cruise
One of the most romantic activities in Boracay is to experience the stunning sunsets by boat!
Take one of the sunset cruises and enjoy a 2-hour cruise along the coast of Boracay Island whilst the sun sets over the horizon. It’s a great opportunity to see some of the beaches in Boracay at sunset.
The cruise will also give you a chance to try some snorkelling, stand-up paddleboarding and swimming in the beautiful turquoise waters surrounding this magical island.
Bar Crawl
Boracay is renowned for its party scene and the best way to experience the multitude of bars in Boracay is to take part in one of the many advertised bar crawls on the island.
This is certainly one of the most sociable activities in Boracay and a great way to meet other travellers and to get to know your way around the island (or at least the bars!).
Expect up to 50 people of the bar crawl and a visit to at least 5 different bars, with drinks deals at each of the stops. There will also be a photographer with each bar crawl to record your night (which is not always a good thing…!).
This is a great way to meet other travellers and certainly one of those activities in Boracay we would recommend to any solo travellers (and anyone else who enjoys a cold drink on a tropical island…!).
Where to Stay in Boracay
When considering where to stay in Boracay, most people opt to stay at one of the three stations along White Beach but you can stay around many of the different beaches in Boracay if you don’t want to stay at the Stations.
If you want to stay on White Beach, then you need to consider which of the 3 stations you want to be near.
I talk about the stations briefly above and I have picked a few of my favourite places to stay at each of these.
Equally, if you are more interested in wind and water sports than lazing on the beach then perhaps a stay near Bulabog Beach would be more convenient.
Below I round up my favourite places to help you decide where to stay in Boracay depending on your preferred location and your budget.
Station 1, White Beach
As I mention above, Station 1 is generally considered to be the best part of White Beach and as a result, more of the resorts are located at this end of White Beach.
Here are some of my favourite Station 1 options.
Luxury Option: Henann Crystal Sands Resort
Beachfront resort, outdoor swimming pools and sunken pool bar…need I say more?
This epic resort is one of the best hotels on the island. It is located on White Beach at Station 1 but within a 15-minute walk to Bulabog Beach and so is an ideal location to relax in the luxury of this incredible hotel and get out and explore the island.
In addition to its idyllic location, Hennan Crystal Sands Resort also boosts a beautiful outdoor swimming pool, a sunken pool bar and a restaurant serving Filipino breakfast in the morning and delicious evening meals. Cocktails and snacks are served all day and an on-site gym is available for those wanting to work off that delicious food!
The rooms are beautiful, clean, modern and spacious. If you are looking to indulge yourself whilst on Boracay, this is the place for you!
Budget Option: Boracay Backpackers Inc
This is one of the newest hostels in Boracay and is located in the premium station 1 end of White Beach.
The modern and fresh feel of this hostel is unmatched on the island for this price. The hostel comprises clean and modern buildings throughout from the grassed gardens and outdoor seating areas, the modern and well-equipped bar, the sofa-filled communal area and the clean and modern dorms and spacious private rooms, with variations to suit all budgets.
Wi-Fi is available in every room, a pool table is located in the communal area and the bar and restaurant complete this perfectly equipped modern hostel. Boracay Backpackers Inc is setting the standard for future hostels in Boracay.
Station 2, White Beach
Station 2 is located in the middle section of White Beach and is renowned as the ‘party’ section of the beach.
There are fewer luxury options here but I have picked a budget and a mid-range option for you to consider.
So if you are looking for a sociable atmosphere and a location right next to the best bars in Boracay then Station 2 is a good choice.
It is also very well located for visiting the other stations and for heading over to the other coast and Bulabog Beach.
Mid-Range: Hotel Villa Sunset Boracay
If you are looking for a mid-range option located in the heart of White Beach then Hotel Villa Sunset is a great option for you.
It has a private pool and each of the apartments have a terrace or balcony overlooking the pool. The accommodation is set back from the beach making it an intimate and tranquil option whilst being in the heart of the action.
The rooms are clean, spacious and have some lovely views and the hotel has its own bar and restaurant, the latter offering lunch and dinner overlooking the pool.
All rooms have air conditioning and cable TV together with a fully stocked fridge and breakfast can be included in the price.
Budget: Frenz Resort and Hostel
One of the most popular hostels in Boracay and very highly rated on various booking websites including HostelWorld and for good reason!
This is a family-run and multi-award-winning hostel located between stations 1 and 2 along White Beach.
This fantastic hostel in Boracay boosts its own outdoor pool, a large communal area complete with a pool table, DJ/live music nights, free pasta nights, and organised boat trips every week.
They offer both dorms and private rooms, both of which are clean and modern.
If you are looking for a friendly, lively and sociable atmosphere complete with some fantastic accommodation then this is one of the very best hostels in Boracay.
Station 3, White Beach
Station 3 is often considered the more budget end of White Beach but in reality, you will still find powder white sand and turquoise water all within a very short walk of Stations 1 and 2.
It is also the closest Station to the jetty port and so is a great option for travellers looking for a quiet place to sleep, away from Station 2, but still within easy reach of the nightlife.
Mid-range: Cocoloco Beach Resort
Cocoloco beach resort offers simple and comfortable accommodation in the quieter Station 3 part of White Beach whilst still being within easy access of the more lively Station 2, giving you the best of both worlds!
This is one of the authentically designed hostels in Boracay with bamboo pillars holding up nipa roofs and being surrounded by lots of lush and green tropical plants making a spectacular traditional experience.
Cocoloco has a beachfront bar and restaurant which serves both western and Filipino foods and offers some great happy hour discounts.
The rooms are simple, clean and spacious and offer a variety of sizes and views depending on your budget. Air conditioning comes as standard and Wi-Fi is available in the communal areas.
If you are looking for a traditional beachside stop at an affordable price located in a peaceful part of White Beach but within easy reach of the action should the mood take you, then you should definitely check out Cocoloco!
Budget: Blue Coral Resort Boracay
Blue Coral Resort is the perfect choice for the budget traveller looking to stay in Station 3. Blue Coral is located on the beachfront within Station 3 but within easy walking distance of the party atmosphere of Station 2.
Each of the rooms has air conditioning, fridges, private bathrooms and flat-screen TVs with Wi-Fi offered throughout the property.
The rooms are all spacious and well furnished and Blue Coral is able to organise bicycle rental, massages and even boosts bbq facilities which make it one of the most popular budget hostels in Boracay.
Bulabog Beach
If you prefer to stay closer to Bulabog Beach, which is renowned for its water sports and perfect kite surfing conditions then here are a couple of nearby gems.
Luxury: 7 Stones Boracay
For those looking for a luxury stay at Bulabog beach then I would certainly recommend 7 Stones Hotel.
7 Stones is located right on Bulabog beach and has a private outdoor pool and spa pool which flows the length of the hotel. Each of the 28 rooms has good views of the beach or the lagoon outdoor pool and the entire hotel has a very relaxed and chilled-out atmosphere.
The rooms are all spacious and modern with Wi-Fi, air conditioning, cable TV and fully stocked fridges as standard as well as balconies offering great views.
7 Stones has a café bar which serves meals all day as well as a sunken pool bar offering good value happy hour specials and a beachside tiki bar providing the perfect venue to relax and watch the kite surfers who take advantage of the windier conditions on this side of the island.
Budget: Lazy Dog Bed & Breakfast
Anyone that knows me knows that I love all animals and so any animal-friendly hostels in Boracay were going to get my attention!
Lazy Dog is this and so much more with its own lazy dog who is often found at reception ready to welcome you to this great B&B!
Lazy Dog offers both private rooms and dorms and is perfectly located 50 metres from Bulabog Beach. The rooms are all spacious and airy and the larger private rooms have terraces overlooking the intimate and relaxing communal area.
Complete with an on-site café serving meals all day at very reasonable prices, this is one of the few remaining ‘traditional’ hostels in Boracay with super friendly staff (including Whiskey to the dog!) and a local charm that cannot be matched. If you are heading to Bulabog then head straight to Lazy Dog B&B.
Diniwid Beach, Boracay
If you are looking to escape the action of White Beach but still want a tranquil and calm beach then Diniwid Beach could be a great alternative to White Beach.
Luxury: Diniview Villa Resort
These absolutely beautiful and spacious villas are located on Diniwid beach which is accessible via steps at the property.
A really luxurious resort with stunning views of the island and the service here is second to none. A great location to enjoy the tranquil side of Boracay whilst still being within walking distance of White Beach and the restaurants and bars.
Mid-range: Sulu Sea Boutique Hotel
Sulu Sea is located 100 yards from Diniwid Beach and is next door to White Beach, which is just a short walk away.
If you’re looking for a quiet, romantic and peaceful holiday or break away from the fun and chaos of White Beach’s nightlife whilst still close enough to enjoy the restaurants and beautiful stretch of beach, Sulu Sea is for you.
The on-site restaurant serves delicious food too!
Eating and Drinking in Boracay
The food and drink scene on Boracay is really impressive and so there is something to cater for every taste.
Here I pick out some of my favourite places to eat and drink to whet your appetite!
Best Restaurants in Boracay
Lemoni Café
The best place for a bit of brunch (the eggs benedict are amazing!), a healthy lunch or not-so-healthy but SO delicious homemade pastries, bread and cakes.
This gorgeous café is the place to be for lunch on a budget costing as little as 150 pesos in station 2(£2/$3).
Lemoni is also the perfect place to grab a frozen cocktail or ice cold wine and enjoy in the afternoon sun!
Subo
Subo serves some of the best food in Boracay and is one of the best restaurants in Boracay for Filipino-inspired seafood.
The inside of the restaurant is inspired by its Spanish history and you’ll be serenaded by a guy with a guitar as you eat – not a bad way to enjoy some of the best Filipino food that Boracay has to offer!
Subo is located in Station 3 and a meal here will cost between 150-500 Pesos (£3-£7/$3-$5).
Mama’s Fish House
Mama’s in Station 2 serves up what may be the best seafood in Boracay and their paella is to die for.
Quiet and in a beautiful location, it can make a great spot for a couple looking for a romantic dinner.
Despite the delicious food, a meal will cost just 200-500 pesos (£3.50-£7.50/$5-10).
Nonie’s
If you need to cleanse after a few heavy nights on the booze, head over to Nonie’s who serves up healthy, delicious and guilt-free food at Station 2.
It’s good food on a budget, coming in at between 200-500 Pesos for a good meal (£3.50-£7.50/$5-10).
Los Indios Bravos
Need a budget meal that will fill you up? Head to Los Indios Bravos serves Filipino-inspired pub grub and showcases Filipino draught beers in Station 1 – what more could you want?
A meal here will cost between 250-500 Pesos (£3.50-£7.50/$5-10).
Crust
If pizzas are your thing then this is a contender for one of the best restaurants in Boracay.
Delicious brick-oven pizzas, hearty pasta dishes and handcrafted cocktails – need we say more?!
Located at Station 1, and part of the Lind Boracay Hotel, it is a mid-range restaurant and depending on your order and how many cocktails accompany your meal would put you back around 500-1000P (£7.50-£15/$10-20).
Steampunk Burgers
Sometimes, a good burger is all you need, and it doesn’t get much better than at Steampunk.
If you want something to feed the hangover, or you’ve eaten your body weight in seafood and fancy a change, this is your place.
Located at Station 2 and depending on what you eat, will put you back as little as 200 Pesos (£3/$5).
If you do head down for the best burgers on the island, make sure you try and save room for the Punk Shake! These are absolutely delicious – and are worth a return trip alone!
Check out their Instagram to keep up to date with their latest offerings!
Our Favourite Bars in Boracay
There are so many great bars in Boracay that it’s a little overwhelming to know where to go for what!
If you’re staying at a hostel, they’ll recommend the best places to go and may even organise nights out at some of the best bars in Boracay. When in doubt, follow where everyone else is going.
However, if you’re not staying in a lively hostel, here are a couple of bars in Boracay that we loved to get you started!
Exit
A relaxed bar during the day which is also popular with locals, and is the base for the kitesurfing crowd, it’s the place to be for live rock music and DJ sets.
Located in Station 2.
Area 51 Secret Party Facility
If you like to party, make sure you’re in Boracay at the same time as the full moon is and attend the underground party here.
Located away from White Beach, on the east coast at Lugutan Beach, this place offers no frills, island partying with DJs playing until sunrise – so fun!
Nigi Nigi Nu Noos
A beachfront bar at Station 2 with the best name ever!
If you’re a sports fan, you can catch all the live matches here and the local cocktail, Weng Weng (meaning ‘intoxicated’) is the perfect pre-drink.
Trust me, you won’t need many of these before you’re itching to get on the dance floor – absolutely lethal!
Aplaya Beach Bar
Up at Station 1, Apalaya Beach Bar is the perfect place to enjoy a refreshing cocktail and watch the sunset from your prime beach-side location!
Go for the cocktails (which are amazing) and stay for the food – the kitchen serves up delicious Italian food as well as beautiful fish dishes!
Aplaya brings the party with various themed nights throughout the weeks and amazing DJs spinning tracks whilst the sun sets and the evening gets going!
Give them a follow on Facebook or Instagram to keep up with the latest deals and events!
Getting to Boracay
There are two main ways to get to Boracay from within the Philippines; either by plane or by ferry.
By Air
Whilst many agents and tour operators will say that you can fly to Boracay there is in fact no airport in Boracay which can be a bit confusing at first.
So when we talk of flying to this amazing island, the ‘airport in Boracay’ is in fact Godofredo P. Ramos Airport in Caticlan on the neighbouring mainland island of Panay. This airport is also known as Caticlan Airport and more recently Boracay Airport (adding to the confusion!).
Fortunately, that is as confusing as it gets as the transit from Caticlan airport to the island of Boracay is very popular and as a result very straightforward.
As soon as you leave Caticlan airport, you will be inundated with drivers offering to take you ‘to Boracay’ in their trikes. Given the body of water between Caticlan airport and the island of Boracay, ‘to Boracay’ here means they will take you to the Caticlan ferry jetty port. This will be a 10-minute journey and should cost between 30 and 50 pesos.
From the ferry jetty port, it is a 15-minute ferry journey over to the island of Boracay with ferries departing every 15 to 20 minutes between 6 am and 6 pm every day.
The cost of the ferry comprises the boat fee, the terminal fee and an environmental fee, all of which should equate to between 200 and 300 pesos.
When you reach the island of Boracay, you can expect another trike journey to your accommodation if you don’t fancy the walk.
By Ferry
Equally, you can reach the island of Boracay by ferry from Manila to Boracay.
This is definitely an amazing experience for those with more time of their hands. There are various ferries each day and the journey takes between 10 and 12 hours including an overnight option.
Ferries depart from Bantangas Terminal in Manila and all details of timings and prices are available on the 12go Asia website.
Getting around Boracay
There are 3 main options for getting around Boracay; walking, taking a trike or hiring bicycles.
Boracay is a small island and so it is possible to walk everywhere; it will take between 2 and 3 hours to walk from one end of the island to the other. As White Beach extends along most of the western coast of the island, it can be a useful ‘highway’ to walk up and down to avoid getting lost!
Equally, trikes are in plentiful supply on the island and can take you anywhere you want which can be helpful if you want to visit some of the other beaches mentioned above.
As always, if you are going to take a trike then make sure you agree on a price before you set off. Here are some rough guidelines for prices to help you in your negotiations!
- From Caticlan ferry port to places along White Beach – I would expect to pay around 100 pesos ($2/£1.50) per ride (not per person, which is how other rides on the island are priced);
- Travelling along White Beach – I would expect to pay around 20 pesos per person ($0.50/£0.30);
- From White Beach to Puka Beach – 150-200 pesos ($3-$4/£2-£3)
- To rent by the hour – 250-350 pesos per hour ($5-$7/£4-£5.50)
Otherwise, you can hire bicycles either from your hostel/hotel or from one of the bicycle rental shops along the main road. The costs can vary but I would expect to pay around 50-70 pesos per hour ($1/£1 per hour) or up to 800 pesos per day ($15/£12).
You can hire scooters but despite my love of a scooter tour (check out my scooter itinerary in Bohol!) I would not recommend it on Boracay as the island is so small. You can travel from one end to the other in around 15 minutes on a scooter and scooter hire on the island can be relatively expensive at around 800 pesos ($15/£12) for half a day or 1,500 pesos ($30/£25) for a full day.
Weather in Boracay
As with the rest of the Philippines, the weather in Boracay is very tropical all year round.
The weather in Boracay is split into two seasons, the high season known as Amihan and the low season known as Habagat.
The high season generally runs from November to May and the low season runs from June to October.
With an average year-round temperature of 30°C and average humidity of around 75%, the weather in Boracay is consistent throughout the year as you would expect of a tropical island.
Ironically, both the hottest (December) and coldest (May) months occur in the high season. However, the high season is generally dry and the wettest months occur during the low season (particularly October).
Generally, in the high season, the east coast of the island (such as Bulabog Beach) sees winds and waves whilst the west coast (White Beach) has flat seas which are ideal for swimming and snorkelling.
During the low season, rain is of course more frequent although any downpours do not last long and the temperature dries the ground very quickly. Equally, you can expect more windy conditions on the west coast during the wet season.
As with other travel destinations, the weather in Boracay dictates the number of tourists which in turn impacts the price and availability of things such as accommodation and tours.
Generally, given the tropical weather in Boracay, this slice of paradise is popular year-round and so whilst there are lower visitor numbers in the low season there will still be plenty of people and activity on the island.
Enjoy Boracay!
Boracay is the perfect place to visit for a holiday, or as part of a backpacking trip. It’s a place where you can relax, party, learn a new hobby/sport, work on your tan, eat amazing food and see some amazing underwater wildlife (or a mixture of all the above!).
Moreover, the beaches in Boracay are something that must be seen to be believed so make sure that it’s on the top of your list of islands to visit in the Philippines – it cannot be missed!
Pin this blog to save for later and have fun planning those adventures!
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