Boracay
The world-famous White Beach · Aklan
Boracay’s 4 km White Beach is regularly ranked among the world’s best — powdery white sand, paraw sailboats at golden hour, and an island that somehow manages to be lively without feeling trashy. It went through a controversial six-month closure in 2018 for environmental rehabilitation, and came back cleaner and better-regulated. The crystal-clear water and sunsets are still the real deal.
Things to do in Boracay
🏖️ White Beach Stations 1–3
Station 1 is the quietest and most pristine — wider sand, fewer vendors, higher-end resorts. Station 2 is the busy center with restaurants and nightlife. Station 3 is the budget backpacker end. Walk the full length at low tide for the best views.
⛵ Paraw sunset sailing
A traditional outrigger sailboat glides out from White Beach at golden hour — ₱1,500–2,000 for a 1-hour trip. Bring a camera and book in the afternoon on the beach (vendors approach you). Non-negotiable if it’s your first Boracay visit.
🪂 Water sports at Bulabog Beach
The windward east side of the island is the kite-surfing capital of Southeast Asia (October–May). Kiteboarding lessons from ~₱5,000/half day; windsurfing and paddleboarding also available.
🌊 Island hopping & cliff diving
Magic Island, Crystal Cove and Puka Beach by bangka — half day trips from ₱1,000 per person. Crystal Cove has a small entry fee (₱150) and good snorkeling. Magic Island has a cliff jump platform if you’re feeling brave.
🗓️ Best time to visit Boracay
November to May (Amihan northeast monsoon — calm seas, White Beach perfect). June–October brings the Habagat (southwest monsoon): White Beach gets choppy but Bulabog Beach on the east side is calm. Don’t go during typhoon season (August–October) unless you’re flexible with dates.
✈️ How to get to Boracay
Fly to Caticlan Airport (MPH) — the closest, just 10 minutes by boat to the island (₱100 terminal fee + ₱100 boat). Flights from Manila: ~1 hr, from ₱2,000. Alternative: fly to Kalibo (KLO) — larger airport, more flights, often cheaper, but 1.5 hrs by van to Caticlan port. Factor in the extra time and cost.
Plan your Boracay trip
Compare flights, hotels and tours — booked through trusted partners, always at the best price.
Frequently asked questions — Boracay
Is Boracay still worth visiting after the 2018 closure?
Yes — most travellers say it’s better. The water is cleaner, the beach is less cluttered, and the rehabilitation fixed the worst of the sewage problems. The beach is regulated now (no motorized vehicles, limited vendors) which makes it more pleasant to walk.
Which Boracay station should I stay in?
Station 1 if you want quiet and pristine sand. Station 2 if you want to be in the middle of the action, restaurants and nightlife. Station 3 if you’re on a budget. All three are walkable along the beach, so the choice is mainly about vibe and price.
How do I get around Boracay?
The island is small — you can walk the length of White Beach in 30 minutes. Electric tricycles (E-trikes) run fixed routes for ₱25–50 per person. Rent a bicycle (₱100–200/hr) or motorbike (₱300–500/day) to get to Bulabog or the quieter north end.
Is Boracay suitable for families with kids?
Very much so. The shallow calm waters of White Beach are ideal for children. There’s a range of family-friendly resorts, and the island is small enough that everything is close together. Avoid peak season (Christmas/Easter) for the sake of the crowds.
What is the best month to visit Boracay?
February and March — the sea is flat, the sky is blue, and the post-Christmas crowds have thinned. January is also good but still busy after New Year. April–May starts to get hot. December and Holy Week are the most crowded and most expensive.