This article may contain affiliate links. When you purchase something we recommend, we make a small commission. You don’t pay anything extra. 💘 For more details, check out our Terms of Use page.
Boracay tops the list of most famous destinations worldwide.
And if you make it to the Philippines, you might want to strongly consider jumping on a plane to get here.
The island was shut down in 2018 for six months to recover from over-tourism. Since reopening, it’s been cleaner and better regulated, but still packed with tourists and locals alike.
Let’s see what you can expect from your visit to Boracay.
Where is Boracay?
Boracay is a small island in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines, around 300 km south of Manila. Just over 7 kilometers long, it’s famous for its White Beach a four-kilometer stretch of sugar-soft sand and turquoise waters that has consistently ranked among the top beaches in the world.
Getting to Boracay from Manila
A one-hour flight from Manila to Caticlan (also known as Godofredo P. Ramos Airport) is the fastest and easiest option. Delays are common, but once you land, it’s only a few minutes by tricycle to the port. There, you’ll pay a few small fees (environmental, terminal, boat ticket), and hop on a 10–15 minute boat to Boracay.
You’ll arrive at the island’s jetty port, and from there, take another short tuk-tuk or van ride to your accommodation. If you’re staying at a resort, transfers are often included and coordinated for you which saves a lot of hassle, especially if you land at night like we did.
Even in the dark, even with jet lag and rain in the air, I felt the excitement. The sense that I had finally arrived in one of those places the kind that stays with you.
What to Expect
The first thing I was told when I arrived wasn’t about the beach, the sunsets, or the water sports. It was: “We have a McDonald’s and a Starbucks and Jollibee.”
It was both a warning and a welcome.
Boracay is one of the most touristy islands in the world. It was even shut down by the government for six months in 2018 due to environmental concerns.
Where to Stay in Boracay
Boracay is divided into three main areas along White Beach Station 1, 2, and 3. They’re not actual stations but loose zones that help you get a feel for the island’s layout.
- Station 1 is home to the widest stretch of beach and some of the island’s top-end resorts. This is where I stayed, at Discovery Shores — a beachfront hotel with spacious rooms, great service, and direct access to the quieter, cleaner part of White Beach. If you’re looking for a splurge and want the “picture postcard” Boracay, this is where you’ll find it.
- Station 2 is the busiest area — the heart of the island, full of restaurants, bars, and shops. It’s lively, central, and convenient, though it can get loud.
- Station 3 is the budget zone, more laid-back with simpler guesthouses and hostels. It’s not as polished, but it has charm, and you’ll still be right by the water.
Popular places to stay:
- Discovery Shores – Ideal for couples or anyone after comfort and beach access.
- Henann Crystal Sands – Modern rooms, great pool, and central Station 2 location.
- Ferra Hotel & Garden Suites – Affordable, well-reviewed, tucked slightly inland for quieter nights.
- Frendz Hostel – For solo travelers or backpackers looking for a social vibe and good value.
Where you stay depends on what kind of trip you want: relaxation, nightlife, or a bit of both.
Things to Do in Boracay
Boracay is more than just a pretty beach. While lounging on the sand is a valid plan (and probably one you’ll follow through with), there’s a surprising number of things to do here especially if you like being on the water.
Also remember that a lot of the activities are advertised on Klook, so check that first for more options.
You’ll get recommendations and options through your accommodation provider, but I recommend booking ahead if you are only there for 3 days.
Island Hopping
This is one of the most popular activities. You’ll hop on a small boat and head to nearby islands and coves, like:
- Puka Beach – Less crowded, quieter, and known for its coral-and-shell sand.
- Crocodile Island – A good snorkeling stop.
- Magic Island – If you’re into cliff diving.
You’ll see signs for tours all along the beach or be approached directly. You can also book through your hotel. Just check what’s included: some tours include lunch, snorkeling gear, and pickup, others don’t.
Paraw Sailing
These are traditional Filipino sailboats with two outriggers. Go at sunset. Trust me. You’ll get an unobstructed view of the changing sky, with no engine noise just the waves and wind.
Water Sports
From paddleboarding and kayaking to jet skiing and parasailing, you’ll find all the classic beach resort activities here. Some are more chaotic during peak season (December to April), but still worth doing if you’ve got the energy.
Scuba Diving and Snorkeling
I’m still gutted I didn’t get to scuba dive here during my visit (since I hadn’t started learning yet) but it would the list of things to do for me next time. TBeginners can try discovery dives. The water visibility and marine life are best from November to May.
Massage on the Beach
Yes, it’s a bit cliché but lying under a palm tree with the sound of waves in the background while someone works out your travel knots is hard to beat. Prices are usually negotiable but you won’t be able to be directly on the beach.
Walking the Length of White Beach
White Beach stretches nearly 4 kilometers. You’ll pass changing scenery: from upscale resorts and boutique shops in Station 1, to the buzzing D’Mall and street food in Station 2, to the quieter, more local stretch in Station 3. If you walk early in the morning, you’ll have it almost to yourself. The sand is so soft and powdery!
Enjoying the Food Scene
Food in Boracay is hit or miss there’s a lot of western fast food, but also some great local spots if you look closer.
The food options can feel oh, so western but the smells are not. Garlic rice for breakfast, lunch or dinner, plus fried fish and crispy onions. Aromas that are earthy and sweet and drink choices that leave no doubt as to where you are: sweet or green mango shakes, calamansi juice, and pandan-flavoured water.
A few places to check out:
- Wokeria Crab Pasta House – this has become a famous spot, primarily for its instagrammable whole crab signature dishes. They also have squid, sinigang (must try at some point) and gambas. .
- Nonie’s – Healthy, sustainable food using local ingredients. If you want something that tastes good isn’t too heavy this spot is a gem.
- Gery’s Grill – Another spot in Station 1, that is expensive yet affordable for the area and will give you the change to try a lot of the local cuisine in a great setting.
You’ll also find loads of grilled meats, skewers, cheap fruit bowls, and snacks from beach vendors.
D’Mall and the Main Strip
Right in the heart of Station 2, D’Mall is the central shopping and dining area of Boracay. It’s not a traditional mall more like an open-air complex filled with souvenir shops, cafés, restaurants, and convenience stores.
You’ll find a mix of everything here smoothies, pasta, flip flops, SIM cards, tattoos. If you’re staying in Station 1 or 3, you’ll probably still end up here to grab a bite or stroll around in the evening. It’s busy and a bit chaotic, but also full of life. Expect queues at dinner time and a constant crowd flow.
Other Things to Do on the Island
If you’re staying a few days and want more than just water sports, here are a few extras to consider:
- Hike to Mount Luho Viewpoint – A short uphill walk or tuk-tuk ride to the highest point of the island. Not an epic hike, but you’ll get a decent view. Tuk tuk rides are affordable and a great way to go around the island. Unfortunately I don’t have any photos from those drives.
- Willy’s Rock – A small volcanic formation with a statue of the Virgin Mary, right in the shallow water off Station 1. It’s photogenic and worth a stop.
- Beach Clean-Up Events – Some resorts and groups organize community beach clean-ups. A small way to give back if you’re interested.
- Live Music at Night – Several bars host acoustic sets or DJs. It’s not a party island like others in Southeast Asia, but there’s still a night scene especially during the Christmas period.
Keep in Mind: Beach Rules and Practical Stuff
- No sun loungers or umbrellas on White Beach anymore. After the island’s reopening, the government banned commercial beach setups to preserve its natural state. Bring a towel or sit directly on the sand.
- Apply sunscreen and be aware that reef-safe SPF is preferred.
- Smoking, drinking alcohol, and eating are also banned directly on the beach (enforced mostly in Station 1 and 2).
Budget and Prices
Boracay can be done on a semi-budget, but it helps to plan. Here’s what you can expect:
- Flights from Manila to Caticlan Airport start at around $40-50 USD but you’ll plan to plan ahead.
- Airport-to-island transfers cost around ₱700 PHP / $12 USD one way per person (includes fees and boat)
- Nice hotels range from $40 to $80 USD per night and high end hotels range from $200-$500 per night.
- Street food and vendors: ₱100–₱200 PHP ($1.50–$3.50)
- Mid-range meals at cafés near the beach: ₱400–₱600 PHP ($7–$10) per person
- Island hopping tours: ₱1200–₱1800 PHP per person ($20–$30), depending on inclusions
- Massage on the beach: ₱400–₱600 PHP ($7–$10) for one hour
Boracay is not the cheapest island in the Philippines, but it’s still affordable compared to most global beach destinations. Tuk tuk transfers, booking accommodations early, and eating at local spots can help stretch your budget a bit so you can spend three days enjoying the beach.
Other Filipino Foods to Try
Filipino food doesn’t always get the spotlight it deserves, but I honestly think it’s one of the most underrated cuisines in the world. The flavor combinations — salty, sour, sweet — somehow just work, even when they sound strange on paper.
Beyond the fresh fruit like mango, calamansi, and lanzones, which I always go for, there are a few dishes and snacks I keep coming back to.
Adobo is the obvious one. It’s a vinegar and soy sauce-based stew made with pork or chicken. Every family does it differently. Some add coconut milk. Some make it dry. I like both.
Kare Kare is rich and heavy, made with oxtail and peanut sauce. You eat it with rice and a side of fermented shrimp paste called bagoong, which sounds weird but balances the heaviness perfectly. This together with Adobo and Sinigang is what a lot of people think of when they think of Filipino food.
Sinigang is one of my favorites. It’s a sour tamarind soup with pork or shrimp and leafy greens. It’s simple but hits the spot, especially on cooler or rainy days.
Turon was my go-to snack during long stays in Manila, especially from street food vendors. You want to look for crispy, caramelized edges, and not too oily.
Halo Halo is more of a dessert with shaved ice, sweet beans, jellies, milk, and purple yam. It looks chaotic, but if you mix it properly, it works. Not my favorite but definitely worth trying.
And then there’s ensaymada. These came from Spain but have become their own thing in the Philippines. They’re soft, buttery, and slightly sweet from the sugar, then topped with a local type of cheese called queso de bola. You’ll see them around Christmas especially, often gifted in boxes or eaten with hot chocolate. It is very hard not to eat the whole box straight away, so if you are there around the Christmas season, had to a bakery to ask for them.
If you’re open to trying a few things, even if you don’t love everything, you’ll get way more out of the food experience here. And odds are, you’ll end up missing at least one of them when you leave.
ESSENTIAL INFORMATION
Must Know When Visiting Philippines
- Emergency: Dial 911 for all emergencies. Police: 117. Fire: 160.
- Language: English is widely spoken in most tourist areas. There are more than 100 different languages, with Tagalog and Cebuano being the most commonly spoken. Learn a few words like, “Salamat” (Thank you), “Mabuhay”, (Hello).
- Water: Tap water is safe in Metropolitan Manila but bottled water is best for other areas.
- Driving: Right-hand side, international driving permit recommended. Book your rental car with Discover Cars for best rates and comparisons across all major companies.
- Accommodation: Booking.com for the most options on hotels, apartments and hostels. Free cancellation in a lot of places and no need to pre-pay. Great for their rewards points system.
- Islands: There are a LOT of islands, spread out around the country. Start with a map to get an idea of travel times.
- Activities: From cultural sights to day trips, food tours and city guides, use Get Your Guide. Another option very popular in Asia is Klook. Customer service can be tricky but there are more options.
- Public Transport: Options for public transportation are buses, jeepneys, and the MRT. Not recommended as the main way of transportation. But great if you want to have the “experience”.
- Domestic Airlines: The main airlines for airtravel are Philippines Airlines, AirAsia, Cebu Pacific.
- Taxi: Always use a taxi app, instead of flagging down a taxi from the road. Most popular option is Grab.
- Culture: The Philippines has a tipping culture. While there are no strict guidelines, a 10% gratuity is normal for most eating establishments. Do check cause some places will automatically add a service charge.
