Best Boracay Island Travel Guide: Tours + Hotels & Resorts
Escape to one of the best islands in the world, Boracay in the Philippines! Find out the best time to go, how to get there, the top things to do and see, where to eat, the best hotels and resorts to stay in, and other travel tips with this ultimate travel guide.
Boracay Island, one of the top beaches in the Philippines and one of the best Visayas tourist spots, is blessed with a long stretch of powdery white sand beach (called White Beach), crystal clear and azure waters, and a stunning sunset. The island doesn’t fall short on adventures and activities for people of all ages.
You'll never run out of exciting things to do in Boracay, from swimming, island hopping in the Philippines, diving, Boracay snorkeling, parasailing, and kayaking. Those who want an added convenience can also book a private island hopping in Boracay or a cheap Boracay tour package. Because of these, Boracay has been cited multiple times as one of the best islands and beaches in the world according to reputable publications and travelers' choice lists.
If you are going to Boracay to relax, try island-hopping, or experience water activities, you should take note of the weather during your target travel dates before booking your plane ticket. This is to avoid canceled plans and to lessen the hassle usually caused by unexpected rains and thunderstorms.
Dry and Summer Season | December to May
You can enjoy Boracay all year round, but the best season to experience the island and its beaches are from December to May, the dry season in the Philippines.
You would be able to walk around the powdery white sand beaches of Boracay while taking in the warm summer sun. A lot of locals and international travelers visit the island during this time as well, so you can expect bars to be lively at night.
Boracay’s peak season is from March to May, the country’s summer months. During this period, Boracay becomes the go-to beach destination for locals.
National holidays such as Christmas, New Year, Chinese New Year, and Lent or Holy Week (from Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday) are also peak seasons in Boracay.
Climate and Weather
No matter what time of the year you choose, the weather will never be too chilly or too hot. The average high temperature is approximately 30 °C, while the average lows are at around 25 °C. The hottest month in Boracay usually falls from March to June, while the wettest month often falls from August to October.
Here's an overview of the monthly average temperature in Boracay:
What to Wear
Bring beach necessities such as a swimsuit, a rashguard, shirts, shorts, slippers, shades, goggles, towels, and a hat or cap. Wear sunblock to avoid getting sunburnt.
How to Get to Boracay
Before traveling to Boracay, make sure you have a printed voucher from your pre-booked accredited Boracay resorts and hotels. You will be denied entry to the island if you don’t hold a voucher from your resort or hotel.
Going to Boracay Island from Caticlan Jetty Port
After the registration, you will take a short ferry ride to Cagban Jetty Port on Boracay Island. From here, you can take another tricycle or your hotel’s private van to your chosen accommodations.
If you’re a solo traveler, it’s better to join a group or book shared Boracay transfers so you can save more money on transportation.
Getting Around Boracay
The primary public transportation vehicles in Boracay are electric or motorized tricycles, motorbikes, and shared or private tours. Depending on where you're staying and your budget, it's essential to take note of the following types of transportation for a more convenient getaway.
By Walking
You can explore some of the parts of the island by walking around. Just make sure to bring a handy map or download an offline map with you so you'll know how to go to the tourist spots in your itinerary. There are walking and hiking trails, too, if you plan to trek to farther places such as Mount Luho.
By Tricycle
The tricycle is the standard type of transportation in Boracay, especially if you're traveling from one station to another. Take note that during off-peak hours, special rides (private) might be the only ones available in the area and can be much more expensive than the regular ones (shared). Make sure to bring enough cash with you and ask how much you'll be paying beforehand to avoid any extra charges.
By Mountain Bike/Motorbike
If you're passing by tricycles, chances are you can see motorbikes moving around the area too. It's not regulated, but many locals use it because of the convenience it offers. You can also rent one if you want! It gives you the freedom to check out the other tourist attractions on the island without having to pay extra for a driver.
By Shared/Private Tours
If you're not keen on commuting, there are various Boracay tours that include hotel pick-up and drop-off. It's hassle-free and convenient, especially if you're in a big group.
Where to Stay in Boracay
It's best if you have reserved accommodations with one of the Boracay hotels or resorts on the island. While some of the more popular properties get fully booked during peak season, you have dozens of others to choose from.
Beach Resorts
Most travelers in Boracay stay at beach resorts. It is more convenient because you get easy access to the beaches. Resorts are also a good place to stay if you're on your honeymoon in the Philippines. Most of their amenities also focus on creating a relaxing atmosphere. Depending on your resort, you might get access to luxurious spas and indoor pools. If you want to save money but still want to experience the amenities of these resorts, you may book a Boracay day pass.
Hotels
If you're looking for a more comfortable place to stay, then it might be best to stay at a hotel. In Boracay, you can find a lot of this type of accommodation; luxury accommodations (some of which offer Philippine luxury vacation packages), mid-range, and budget hotels are all available, some even offering free cancellation. Most basic amenities can be found in Boracay hotels, such as en-suite bathrooms, minibars, and free WiFi.
Hostels
For budget backpackers, staying at a hostel is best. Hostels have dorm-type rooms and single rooms. The common denominator is they usually offer shared bathrooms only.
Neighborhoods and Areas
There are barangays and towns in Boracay, but when it comes to distinguishing the different areas on the island, the stations in White Beach act as a map for both locals and tourists. White Beach is divided into three sections: Station 1, Station 2, and Station 3. There is also an area called Station 0, where resorts like Crimson Resort and Spa Boracay have the advantage of offering more private stays.
Discovery Shores Boracay
One of the most famous upscale hotels in Boracay, Discovery Shores packages offer a stay at a beachfront property with a spa and an outdoor pool with a sunken bar. It’s a sprawling resort that’s perfect for families with children, couples, and groups of friends.
Top Things to Do and Tours in Boracay
Your trip to Boracay isn’t complete without experiencing the wide variety of activities the island offers. While the new rules have prohibited some events after the island’s rehabilitation, your Boracay trip will still be full of things to do and places to see. Here are some of our highly suggested activities that you can add to your itinerary:
Explore White Beach and the Other Boracay Beaches
Boracay White Beach - It stretches about 4 kilometers, and walking along its shores should be part of your itinerary! Walk towards Station 1, and you’ll see Willy’s Rock. It’s a must-see grotto that you won’t miss. Go Beyond Station 1, and you’ll find Steve’s Cliff, where a foreign hotel owner was buried. His grave can even be seen from the beach.
Diniwid Beach - This is much less crowded than Station 1 or Station 2 of White Beach. Lounge around and swim at Diniwid Beach, but make sure to head back to Station 1 before high tide. At the opposite end of Boracay Island, you will find interesting rock formations and hidden beaches. So, make sure to pack a bottle of water for the long walk. You may want to schedule two separate trails, one heading towards Station 1, and another leading to Station 3, so you won’t be too tired. But if you’re used to having a long walk, you can go from Station 1 to 3 (or vice versa) in one afternoon.
What to Eat and Drink in Boracay
One of the best things about Boracay is that there are a lot of restaurants serving different cuisines for every budget. If you want a quick bite to eat, head to one of the fast food joints at D’Mall. If you want a luxurious meal, try one of the famous restaurants by the beach. If you’re craving fresh seafood, then go to D’Talipapa.
Recommended Best Restaurants
To help you plan out your meals for any time of the day, here’s a list of the restaurants you can include in your itinerary. It is categorized by the three meals of the day: breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Take note that the ones included here are the most frequented by the locals, so you might have to call in for a reservation first.
Breakfast in Boracay
Never start your day in Boracay without breakfast, because you’ll soon burn all the calories with all the activities waiting for you.
Sunny Side Café - They are famous for their Filipino-American cuisine. They serve all-day breakfast meals and artisan coffee that will surely keep your energy up for an entire day of beach activities.
Lemoni Café - Conveniently located in D’Mall, Lemoni Café serves Filipino and American breakfasts, salads, and pastries. Their on-site bakery ensures that you have access to the freshest homemade bread and cakes.
Real Coffee & Tea Café - Home to the Original Calamansi Muffins, this small but cozy café by the beach is a must-visit when in Boracay. Be sure to bring home a box of their calamansi muffins!
Lunch in Boracay
Partied all night and can’t get up for your hotel-provided breakfast? Well, then, you better do brunch or straight to lunch!
Nonie’s - If you want contemporary Filipino cuisine with vegan options, then lunch at Nonie’s is something you wouldn’t want to skip. They also specialize in a wide variety of fruit shakes and smoothies.
Cha Cha’s Beach Café - Cha Cha's Beach Café at the Coast Boracay is known for its all-you-can-eat buffet featuring Western-Oriental Fusion cuisine. And because they’re open from breakfast until after hours, you can try their delectable and uniquely crafted dishes any time of the day.
D’Talipapa - Buy fresh seafood and other main ingredients from the wet market and have one of the family-owned restaurants in D’Talipapa cook it the way you want!
Mang Inasal - If you want to fill up your belly but want to keep expenses low, then this is the place for you. It is perfect for lunch, as you’ll surely feel famished after your morning activities.
Dinner in Boracay
Smoke Resto - Smoke Resto specializes in delicious yet straightforward Filipino dishes to fill up your belly. Drop by for a quick meal or cool down with a fresh mango shake.
Vintana Asian Café - If you’re looking for a more romantic setting, the ambiance of Vintana’s al fresco dining is perfect for you. It is located at Shangri-La Boracay Resort & Spa, so you’ll surely enjoy a private and luxurious dinner. If you book a Shangri La Boracay promo, you can dine here more often during your stay.
Dos Mestizos - This rustic restaurant allows you to feel and taste the true essence of Filipino-Spanish heritage with a relaxing and sumptuous feast with your family, friends, or significant other.
The Pig Out Bistro - At The Pig Out Bistro, there’s a wide variety of choices for the discerning palate, and each serving is certainly filling. Try their seafood platter and bone marrow burger!
Basic Reminders
Drinking is not allowed on White Beach, which is why beachfront parties are banned. You can only drink alcoholic beverages inside the approved bars. Dining by the beach is also prohibited. Smoking is not allowed on the beach, but you can find designated smoking areas to avoid penalties.
Don’t light a campfire by the beach. Any open fire by the beach is prohibited. And most of all, don’t litter. Pick up after yourself and throw your trash in the right garbage receptacle.
Sample Itinerary in Boracay
Boracay is an exotic island that will give you everything you’re looking for in a vacation: from a relaxing swim in its calm waters to exhilarating water sports to fun parties. This is why it's one of the most visited islands not only in the Philippines but in the whole world. If you have a pretty tight schedule, fret not. You can experience Boracay Island in just three days and two nights!
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