Boracay

DESTINATIONS philippines boracay

Boracay

Palm trees swaying in the wind, crystal turquoise seas, and seemingly endless stretches of talcum powder-white sand beaches, along with a distinctively laid-back way of life, characterise this beautiful island. Boracay offers everything from golf, trekking, sailing, and water sports such as windsurfing and scuba diving, to great hotels, gourmet restaurants, and festivals. Additionally, you can enjoy its fabulous beaches, including White Beach, which has been voted among the finest in the world.

The Island

One of the Philippines’ most popular tourist destinations, Boracay island lies just off the coast of Panay in the western Visayas region. It comprises thirteen areas, known by the Filipino name of Barangays, including Manoc-Manoc and Balabag. Boracay became an independent state in the 1950s, and was something of a secret until a film crew "discovered" the island while filming in the area in the 1970’s. Once the secret was out, tourists began arriving and have continued to do so ever since. Boracay is probably most famous for its beaches, especially the White Beach, which is around four kilometres long. It is the island’s main tourist beach known the world over. The sea is especially shallow here, which makes it safe for water sports. The beach is lined with hotels and restaurants, some of them directly on the waterfront, others separated by a long esplanade. There are other beaches, too, including the quieter Diniwid Beach and the second largest Bulabog Beach, which is popular among windsurfers, kitesurfers and kiteboarders. In fact, the brightly coloured sails are a part of the beach's identity. Boracay is also famous for its nature and eco-trekking, its bargain shopping in markets, diving, parties and the many spas found in its holiday resorts.

Do & See Dining Cafes Bars & Nightlife Shopping Tourist Information

Do & See

Relaxing on its beautiful beaches is, perhaps, the top choice of many tourists who visit Boracay, but there are many other attractions and things to do. Boracay, for instance, is a magnet for festival-goers and sport event enthusiasts. Special events include dragon boat races, the Paraw regatta sailing race, and the open Asian Frisbee beach tournament held every summer — an important event for Boracay’s own top ranking team, the Boracay Dragons. Golfing enthusiasts can enjoy the world-class 18-hole par 72 Fairways & Bluewater Resort Golf & Country Club course. Nature lovers, on the other hand, can explore the natural areas of rice terraces, waterfalls and lush plantations around the Tibiao whitewater river, where the most adventurous ones can even go whitewater rafting.

White Beach

White Beach is considered to be one of the best beaches in the world. The four-kilometre stretch of sugary, fine white sand and the crystal clear blue water is the first thing that comes to mind when you picture paradise. This is where most of the island’s hotels, restaurants and bars are …

Windsurfing

Every January, Bulabog beach is abuzz with locals and visitors who come to see or even take part in the Boracay International Funboard Cup Competition. Windsurfing and kite-surfing are popular activities all year round. There are several companies across the island that offer classes and courses for beginners and advanced …

Ariel's Point

If you take a 30-minute boat ride from Boracay Island, you will find a cliff jumping spot called Ariel's Point. The views here are stunning, and the trip is an enjoyable experience whether or not you decide to go cliff diving. Participants can choose the height they're comfortable …

Ati-Atihan Festival

The two-week long Ati-atihan festival takes place the third Sunday of January each year. People throughout the Philippines wear elaborate fancy dress costumes and make-up. They party with music, dances and carnivals. The religious festival is held in a nearby municipality and is in honour of the Holy Infant Jesus, a patron saint of …

Puka Shell Beach

Contrary to White Beach, Puka Shell Beach is much less crowded. This is a stretch of white sand that is a must-visit for all travellers to the island. Given its convenient location, in the north of Boracay, it is usually included in most beach-hopping itineraries. There are quite a few bars around, some of …

Bat Caves

The area Barangay Yapak is home to the special breed of bats called the Philippine flying fox. These giant fruit bats have wings of more than 1.2 metres. The best time to visit is in the afternoon, when you can see them take flight into the stunning …

Butterfly Garden

The Boracay Butterfly Garden is a very popular attraction due to its attractive landscape. It is home to rare species of exotic tropical butterflies as well as rare trees and plants. It is estimated to host between 200 and 300 live tropical Philippine butterflies all year …

Banana Boats

Banana boats are a lot of fun, and a very popular water activity among tourists. The boats come in different sizes. You can fit 3 to 10 people on one banana boat per ride. You find these boats on almost all of the beaches across the island, where they can be …

Mountain Biking & Hiking

What better way to discover the island than to put on your hiking shoes and get out there? You are sure to find remote places and breathtaking scenery. There are paths criss-crossing the whole island. Some of the best hiking trails are the Boracay Trail, Mount Ilijan and Calimbajan Peak. If you prefer renting …

Willy's Rock

Located at Station 1, Willy's Rock is somewhat of an iconic location on the island of Boracay. The best time to visit is during low tide. This beach is also home to some of the island's best sunsets, so stay until the sun goes down and watch it disappear behind the …

Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary

Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary is a small Catholic Church in the Station 1 area of Boracay Island. Mass in English is held almost daily, so do not hesitate to visit it for a spiritual moment or join the Sunday mass. Everyone is welcome to …

Motag Living Museum

To learn more about Boracay's culture and traditions, visit the Motag Living Museum. Many of the exhibits are interactive, which means you'll be able to plant rice and try other activities performed by local farmers. Visits are by appointment, so make sure you book at least one day in advance. There are also food …

Mount Luho

If you're looking for a beautiful, panoramic view of the island, take the 15-minute hike uphill to Mount Luho, the highest point of Boracay. Alternatively, you can hire an all-terrain vehicle or tricycle to get to the top. There is a small entrance fee and a mini zoo as you approach the top. Last …

Diniwid Beach

This secluded, cosy beach with a private feel to it is a great alternative to the often busy White Beach. Several scenic restaurants are perched on the cliffs north of this beach. It's only a 20-minute walk, or an even shorter tricycle ride if you're on the north side of Station …

Boat Tours

There are several tour operators in Boracay offering boat tours that will help you discover the Island from a new perspective, and even see some of its hidden places. Have a great time with friends and family, enjoy the included lunch and watch the sunset directly off the …

Crystal Cove Island

On the Crystal Cove Island, you can enjoy the beautiful, pristine nature, while also take part in other activities such as snorkelling, trekking and water sports. There's a small entry fee to enter to the coves. If you hire an island hopping tour, make sure Crystal Cove Island is in the …

Dining

Boracay has a huge choice of restaurants to suit all tastes and pockets — from local eateries to lavish gourmet-style venues. Dishes like char-grilled chicken, meat cooked to perfection over coals accompanied by salads and local vegetables, or fish caught fresh from the sea, marinated and grilled, can be found on most tables. Try grilled prawns with bacon and avocado, fresh Oriental-style spring rolls, or delicacies like seared tuna with soy sauce. The hotels and resorts tend to have a selection of restaurants too, serving both Filipino and international cuisines.

I Luv Backyard BBQ Grill

The busy I Luv Backyard BBQ Grill is located at D'Mall, the island's busies shopping village. Their chicken and pork dishes include tasty treats such as litson kawali, crispy pata, sisig and of course roasted and fried chicken. Their seafood menu is just as …

Aria Restaurant

Aria is an Italian restaurant with great food at affordable prices. Their pizza is baked in a wood-fire oven which makes the crust perfectly chewy and crunchy. Another thing to try is the appetiser platter containing olive tapenade, caprese, peppers and …

Cyma Greek Restaurant

This Greek restaurant has been popular ever since it opened, and it is not hard to understand why. The menu is perfect for vegetarians and meat lovers alike with vegetables, seafood, soup, pasta and lamb. The atmosphere is typically 'beachy' - cosy, relaxed and …

Mayas Filipino & Mexican Cuisine

Sink your toes into the sand at this waterfront restaurant located at Jony's Beach Resort. The menu features a large variety of items, with Filipino and Mexican dishes available, including seafood in abundance. Their cocktails are also a must-try, especially the one called …

Yellow Cab Pizza

At Yellow Cab Pizza you can find different types and sizes of New York-style pizza with premium ingredients and generous toppings. Other foods, such as pasta, calzone and desserts are also on offer. If you want a piece of the Big Apple in Boracay, order delivery or dine …

Epic Boracay

Epic Boracay is a modern restaurant with an elegant atmosphere by day and a stylish, beachfront club lounge by night. Brunch is served, along with a variety of dishes ranging from starters to main courses, these include chicken, pork and …

Smoke Resto

The Smoke is a casual dining Asian restaurant, with a laid-back atmosphere and affordable, delicious food. Here you can find tasty meat, chicken or seafood soups, and rice dishes. They also offer tofu-based, vegetarian options. Some international foods, such as burgers, are served as …

Aplaya the Beach Bar & Italian Restaurant

At Aplaya the Beach Bar & Italian Restaurant, you'll be able to tuck into delicious pizza and pasta, as well as steaks and other Italian cuisine specialities. At night, the ambiance becomes more relaxed and patrons often opt for ordering water pipe, served directly on the beach, or their incredible …

Christina's

Located at Hennan Regency Resort & Spa, Christina's is an elegant restaurant set directly on the waterfront. The food is exquisite, with a selection of international dishes available. Choose from meats, seafood, and Italian specialities such as risotto and pizza. Live bands play at …

Nagisa

Nagisa is an elegant restaurant serving an impressive variety of Asian food, with an emphasis on Japanese cuisine. Choose from prawns, spring rolls, tuna and salmon ceviche, sushi, Gyoza, ramen noodles and much …

Dos Mestizos Restaurant

Dos Mestizos showcases the Hispanic culinary heritage of the Philippines. The paella served here is one of the best in Boracay. You can also indulge in other traditional Spanish delights such as varied tapas and 'tortilla de patata,' the famous Spanish potato omelette. The owners also run a Spanish deli Gusto y …

Sea Breeze Café

The Sea Breeze Café, adjacent to the Hennan Regency Resort, welcomes drop-in visitors for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. All meals are served buffet-style, with a rather generous array of dishes on offer, including desserts. Drinks come at an extra …

Cafes

There are plenty of cafes and casual eateries to choose from in Boracay. Some offer international foods like burgers, pizzas and kebabs, while others specialise in local delicacies like spring rolls and rice dishes that are ideal as a light snack. As for salads, they often contain fruit like mango or pineapple diced in along with lettuce and other veggies. Fruit is also the main ingredient of the colourful, vitamin-packed smoothies — a very popular drink among both visitors and locals.

Jonah's Fruit Shake Boracay

A must when visiting a tropical island is definitely to enjoy a fresh fruit shake. A good place to do that is Jonah's Fruit Shake Boracay. They also serve breakfast, lunch, fruit bowls and other snacks. The best-selling shake is the banana-peanut-chocolate. You can't go wrong with …

Lemoni Café

Lemoni is a café for all-day breakfast, lunch and snacks; however, it transforms into a full-blown restaurant for dinner. They serve tasty sandwiches, healthy juices, smoothies and delicious pastries in a clean and fresh atmosphere. The eatery offers indoor and outdoor …

Aria Gelato Italian Ice Cream

At Aria Gelato you can find real Italian ice-cream. Unique on the Boracay island, this gelatteria offers a large variety of different flavours - fruit- and chocolate-baased. Try the milkshakes - a perfect blend of refreshing drink and dessert for the hot sunny …

Cafe del Sol Boracay

Cafe del Sol is one of the first modern cafés on Boracay island. You can either have a meal or just a coffee with a piece of delicious cake. You will find an amazing place where to spend your time with family or friends. Coffee beans are locally …

The Sunny Side Cafe

The Sunny Side Cafe serves up some of the best breakfast foods on Boracay. Breakfast is served on an all-day basis, which includes menu items like Bacon & Mango Grilled Cheese sandwich, Espresso-Caramel Pancakes and Avocado-Bacon Smash. Serves specialty …

Bars & Nightlife

Boracay is the party capital of the Philippines. Taking a stroll along the waterfront at night will almost certainly mean stumbling upon lively beach bars and dance clubs. Nightlife establishments are usually rather informal, and the dance floor or the seating area is often directly on sand. Stations 1 and 2, on the northern end of White Beach, are known for being the lively party areas. Conversely, Station 3 is a better fit for those looking to spend a relaxed evening listening to the sound of the waves.

Summer Place

Summer Place is a fun open bar facing the beach. Easily the hottest nightlife venue in the Station 2 area, if not on the entire island. Summer Place has a rather compact dance floor, which often extends directly onto the beach. Arrive early to avoid the entrance …

Club Paraw

The dream of sipping cocktails on the beach comes true at Club Paraw, where evenings are spent listening to acoustic reggae and folk songs. As the night progresses, party vibes are generated in abundance by livelier music like house, hip hop and …

The Ruf Resto Bar

Located on the Ferra Hotel rooftop, this elegant bar is a very relaxed evening venue with a selection of drinks and food items on offer. Light, jazzy music fills the air, and the views of the Boracay skyline are some of the best on the island. Conveniently located by the …

Wave Bar and Lounge

Wave Bar and Lounge boasts an attractive location right on the beachfront, at the Hennan Regency Resort. It's an elegant bar before sundown; however, the venue gradually turns into a lively night club with a busy dance floor as it gets darker. Prices are on the higher …

Exit Bar

With its authentic 'beachy' vibe, Exit is a relaxed bar that is popular for pre-drinks and after-parties. Sink your feet into the sand and enjoy reggae and hip hop music with a beer in your hand, imbibing the chill party atmosphere. Drinks are very reasonably …

Shopping

Shopping in Boracay revolves around its fabulous markets and speciality shops. As befits an island community, there are multiple corner shops selling items of beachwear, water sports attire, swimming costumes and the like. The island's largest market is Talipapa, a must-visit if you are looking for local crafts and fresh seafood. Local craftsmen produce intricate wood carvings, leather items, musical instruments, and jewellery.