Why Visit Boracay?
Boracay is a tropical island located in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines, just off the coast of Aklan province. Despite its compact size—only about 7 kilometers long—it packs a punch with its stunning natural beauty, vibrant nightlife, water activities, and warm Filipino hospitality.
The island was closed for environmental rehabilitation in 2018 and has since reopened with sustainable tourism policies in place, making it a cleaner, greener, and more beautiful destination than ever before.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Boracay is during the dry season (Amihan), which runs from November to May. Expect sunny skies, calm waters, and the perfect beach weather.
Seasonal Breakdown:
- November to February: Cool and breezy—perfect for beach lounging and sightseeing.
- March to May: Hotter and more humid—great for sunbathing and water sports.
- June to October: Rainy season (Habagat)—fewer tourists and lower prices, but expect occasional downpours and rougher seas.
How to Get There
While Boracay doesn’t have its own airport, the island is easily accessible via two nearby airports:
Option 1: Caticlan Airport (Godofredo P. Ramos Airport)
- Closest and most convenient
- 5-10 minute ride to Caticlan Jetty Port
- Short 15-minute boat ride to Boracay
Option 2: Kalibo International Airport
- About 1.5 to 2 hours away from Caticlan Jetty Port
- Ideal for international flights and budget travelers
Pro Tip from Travel Express: Book a transfer package that includes airport pickup, land transport, boat fare, and environmental fees. It’s stress-free and saves you time.
Where to Stay
Boracay is divided into three main stations along the White Beach area—each offering a different vibe:
Station 1: Luxury & Tranquility
- Home to the widest stretch of powdery beach
- High-end resorts like Shangri-La’s Boracay, Discovery Shores, and Ambassador in Paradise
- Quieter and more exclusive
Station 2: Central & Lively
- The heart of Boracay’s action
- D’Mall, restaurants, and bars
- Mid-range hotels like The District Boracay, Henann Regency, and Ferra Hotel
Station 3: Budget & Serenity
- Quieter, more relaxed
- Budget hostels, boutique hotels, and eco-lodges
- Great for backpackers and families
Alternative Stays:
- Bulabog Beach: Perfect for kiteboarders and surfers
- Diniwid Beach: Secluded and romantic
Top Attractions & Things to Do
- White Beach
The crown jewel of Boracay—4 kilometers of powdery white sand and gentle waves. Divided into Stations 1-3, it’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and sunset watching.
- Puka Shell Beach
Quieter than White Beach, this north-end spot is known for its coarse sand and laid-back vibe. Great for picnics and photo ops.
- Island Hopping Tours
Explore surrounding islands and snorkeling spots like:
- Crystal Cove Island
- Magic Island
- Crocodile Island
- Water Sports Galore
Get your adrenaline fix with:
- Parasailing
- Jet skiing
- Helmet diving
- Flyfish rides
- Paddleboarding
- Scuba Diving
Boracay has around 25 dive sites for beginners and pros, including:
- Yapak Wall
- Camia Wreck
- Crocodile Garden
- Kiteboarding at Bulabog Beach
From November to April, Bulabog becomes a global hotspot for wind and kite surfing.
- Mount Luho Viewpoint
The highest point on the island offers panoramic views of the beaches and sea.
- Sunset Sailing (Paraw Sailing)
A must-do! Glide across the water on a traditional sailboat while watching Boracay’s fiery sunset.
Food & Nightlife
Where to Eat
Boracay’s food scene is diverse and delicious—from fresh seafood to international cuisine.
Must-Try Local Dishes:
- Chori Burger: Grilled chorizo burger, a street food favorite
- Seafood Paluto: Choose your seafood and have it cooked your way
- Inasal: Grilled chicken marinated in vinegar and spices
Recommended Restaurants:
- D’Talipapa: Buy-your-own seafood market with cook-to-order stalls
- Los Indios Bravos: Gastropub with Filipino twists
- The Sunny Side Café: Famous for their all-day breakfast
- Nami Restaurant: Cliffside fine dining with a view
Boracay Nightlife
Although toned down post-rehabilitation, the nightlife is still vibrant.
Top Spots:
- Epic Boracay (Station 2): DJ sets and beachfront cocktails
- Coco Bar: Chill reggae vibes
- OM Bar: Late-night dancing
- Exit Bar: Laid-back with affordable drinks
Shopping & Souvenirs
Check out D’Mall in Station 2 for boutique shops, souvenir stalls, and cafes.
What to Buy:
- Handmade jewelry
- Boracay t-shirts and sarongs
- Shell crafts
- Dried mangoes and local delicacies
Travel Tips from Travel Express
- Respect Local Rules
- Smoking and drinking are prohibited on White Beach
- No single-use plastics allowed
- Follow environmental guidelines—Boracay is a no-litter zone
- Book in Advance
Boracay is popular year-round. Secure your accommodations, tours, and transfers ahead of time—especially during peak season (December to May).
- Cash is King
While ATMs are available, smaller vendors prefer cash. Bring enough Philippine pesos (PHP), especially when heading to remote parts of the island.
- Pack Light but Right
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Swimwear and beach shoes
- A dry bag for island-hopping
- Light clothing and a hat for sun protection
- Stay Connected
Most hotels and cafes offer Wi-Fi, but if you want consistent connection, grab a local SIM card with data at the airport.
Sustainable Travel in Boracay
Post-rehab, Boracay has embraced eco-friendly tourism. Support this by:
- Staying at green-certified accommodations
- Joining beach clean-ups or eco tours
- Avoiding reef-damaging activities
- Using reef-safe sunblock
Let’s keep Boracay beautiful for generations to come.
Sample 3-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Paradise
- Arrive via Caticlan
- Check-in at hotel
- Sunset sailing
- Dinner at D’Talipapa
Day 2: Adventure Awaits
- Island hopping tour (Crystal Cove, Magic Island)
- Snorkeling and cliff jumping
- Lunch on Puka Beach
- Happy hour at Epic Bar
Day 3: Chill & Explore
- Brunch at Sunny Side Café
- Mount Luho Viewpoint
- Shopping at D’Mall
- Farewell dinner at Nami Restaurant
