Boracay, Philippines: Exciting Things To Do

Nestled in the Philippines, Boracay is a tropical paradise renowned for its powdery white sands, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. Beyond its stunning beaches, this island offers a plethora of activities that cater to every type of traveler, from adrenaline junkies to leisure seekers. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast, a water sports aficionado, or simply looking to unwind amidst breathtaking scenery, Boracay has something for everyone. Let’s dive into the top activities that make Boracay an unforgettable destination.

When is the best time to visit Boracay?

It is best to visit the island between November to May when it’s the dry season. There’s a lesser chance of typhoons and the main beach is calm and suitable for swimming. There are more tourists though and expect bigger crowds especially on the weekends, holidays (Christmas and New Year’s, Chinese New Year, and Lenten season).

Dry season: November to May
Wet season: June to October

During the rainy season from June to October, the flights and travel costs in general will be cheaper so other travelers prefer to visit these months. Just a word of caution though, delays and cancellations are also common because of weather changes or typhoons. Better to check the weather forecast before you travel and always leave a bit of a buffer in between land, water, or air travels in case of delays.

Exchanging money and other costs

Main currency: Philippine Peso (Php)

Where to exchange money?

• At the airport – You can exchange money at the airport but I highly suggest to exchange just the amount that will cover what you need to get to your accommodation because the rates are not competitive.
• Banks or local exchangers – This is another option just make sure you find good rates.
• Withdraw money at local ATMs – I recommend this option however make sure you enable international transactions before making any withdrawals. Some banks have this option on their mobile apps, but in case there’s no option there, you can always reach out to them via phone or email. Just tell them you are traveling and will make ATM withdrawals while abroad. This avoids your card getting blocked for suspicious transactions.

Prepare two or more cards. One VISA, one Mastercard, etc. To be on the safer side prepare several cards that allow you to withdraw locally.

Always keep cash: Most establishments accept cards nowadays but not all will have the technology for it especially the smaller businesses. Other than the lack of the facility, downtimes are also common. So even if you have read online that a restaurant, for example, accepts cards, be prepared in case they say the system is offline or they have internet connection issues.

Safety on the island

It is relatively safe on the island but that does not mean petty crimes do not happen. Just practice the same caution when you travel anywhere else and always be aware of your surroundings. Avoid dark narrow alleys at night and don’t give money to pay for a service you haven’t verified. Before going on a tour or booking a paid activity or even getting transportation, do your research or better yet ask a trusted friend/local about the rates.

Where to stay in Boracay

If staying for a longer period this post can help you find a long-term rental.

But if you are staying for a few days on the island I suggest comparing daily rates on Agoda, Booking.com, and Klook.

Fun Activities

Beach Bumming 

Boracay’s white beach its main draw, and rightfully so. Spend your days lounging on the soft, white sand of White Beach, hailed as one of the best beaches in the world. Enjoy sunbathing, building sandcastles, or simply taking in the mesmerizing sunset views.

Bring a book, cold drinks, and spend an afternoon relaxing then when you feel like it, dip your toes and swim in the clearest turquoise waters.

Water Sports

For thrill-seekers, Boracay offers an array of water sports activities.

Bulabog beach has kiteboarding and windsurfing activities. Where strong winds create the perfect conditions for these exhilarating sports.

While in white beach, go parasailing, jet skiing, or banana boating for an adrenaline rush against the backdrop of azure waters.

Island Hopping

Explore Boracay’s surrounding islands and discover hidden gems. Join an island-hopping tour to visit nearby attractions like Puka Beach, known for its seclusion and stunning shells, and Crystal Cove Island, where you can snorkel amidst colorful marine life or explore intriguing caves.

Here are the main four stops of the island hopping tour.

• Puka Beach
• Crystal Cove Island
• Stop for buffer lunch
• Coral garden site for snorkeling activity

A regular island tour usually lasts 8 hours but if you don’t have enough time you can arrange for a private boat that can accommodate your schedule. The whole day tour will cost you around Php800 – Php 1000 per person that includes lunch buffet. The meet up point is either at Station 1 or Station 3 but the time varies so make sure to ask your tour operator.

Snorkeling and Diving

Dive beneath the surface and uncover Boracay’s underwater wonders. The island boasts vibrant coral reefs teeming with diverse marine life, making it a haven for snorkelers and scuba divers alike. Explore sites like Coral Island, Crocodile Island and Yapak for unforgettable diving experiences.

Land Adventures

Beyond its beaches, Boracay offers thrilling land adventures. Embark on an ATV or buggy adventure and traverse rugged terrain to reach scenic viewpoints overlooking the island. Alternatively, go ziplining through lush forests or trek to Mount Luho for panoramic vistas of Boracay’s coastline.

Related: Moving to Boracay Island: Finding the Right Accommodation

Sunset Sailing Cruises

Experience Boracay’s enchanting sunsets aboard a sunset sailing cruise. Relax on deck with a refreshing cocktail in hand as you sail along the coast, basking in the warm glow of the setting sun. It’s the perfect way to cap off a day in paradise.

Enjoy the Nightlife

Because we go to Boracay for the beach and the nightlife. Party by the beach, go to bars, and go on pubcrawls we have it all.

The white beach has the main night parties from Station 1 to Station 3. Although the party scene these days may not be as loud as it was before, there are still plenty of bars and parties that you can enjoy.

Cultural Immersion

Immerse yourself in Boracay’s rich culture and heritage by exploring its local markets and villages. Visit D’Mall for souvenirs and handicrafts, sample traditional Filipino cuisine at local eateries, or take part in cultural performances showcasing the island’s vibrant traditions.

Wellness Retreats

Indulge in some well-deserved pampering at Boracay’s luxurious spas and wellness retreats. Treat yourself to a rejuvenating massage or holistic therapy session, and unwind amidst serene surroundings, surrounded by the soothing sounds of nature.

Boracay is a paradise that offers an abundance of activities to suit every traveler’s preferences. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, this tropical gem has it all. From thrilling water sports and breathtaking island-hopping excursions to tranquil beachfront retreats and immersive cultural experiences, Boracay promises an unforgettable getaway filled with sun, sand, and endless possibilities. So pack your bags, leave your worries behind, and embark on a journey to discover the magic of Boracay.