12 Best Things To Do In Boracay Philippines

Best Things To Do In Boracay

Boracay is an island that needs little introduction! Once so popular, it had to be closed to tourists for nearly a year; we visited this iconic destination six years later to establish if it’s still worth the hype! From the powdery white sands of White Beach to the thrilling adventures of water sports, Boracay offers a blend of relaxation and excitement.

However, Boracay is a very touristy destination compared to the rest of the Philippines, and with this comes some eye-watering inflated prices. Fear not, though; you know we love a bargain. In this travel guide, we explore the 12 best things to do in Boracay and offer some top tips for those looking to escape the crowds and visit Boracay on a budget.

We value your time! If you have your eye on specific things to do in Boracay, then head to our table of contents above and choose the option that best matches your interests. If you’re short on time right now, feel free to pin this on Pinterest for later!

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You Can Also Check Out Our Complete Boracay Travel Guide On YouTube!

How To Get To Boracay?

To get to Boracay, you typically start your journey by flying into either Caticlan Airport (Godofredo P. Ramos Airport) or Kalibo International Airport. Caticlan is the closer option, with a short 15-minute boat ride to the island, while Kalibo is about an hour away by land, followed by a 30- to 60-minute boat ride.

From Caticlan, you can easily catch a boat to Boracay, where you’ll arrive at the main port. Once on the island, various transportation options, including tricycles and e-bikes, are available to take you to your accommodation. Make sure to book your flights and transfers in advance, especially during high season, to ensure a smooth journey.

You can pre-book packages, including all land and ferry transfers, for very affordable prices with 12Go. Check out all the options below.

We have highlighted Boracay’s location on Google Maps below for your reference:

The Best Things To Do In Boracay Philippines:

1. White Beach

No trip to Boracay is complete without experiencing the world-famous White Beach. Stretching over 4 km, this powdery white sand beach is the heart of the island. Divided into three stations, each offering a unique vibe, White Beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and watching breathtaking sunsets. Don’t miss the vibrant nightlife and beachfront dining options here, but be aware prices are higher than most other areas in The Philippines, given it is such a popular tourist location.

2. Sunset Sailing

Speaking of White Beach, next on the list of best things to do in Boracay is sunset sailing. There’s no better way to end your day in Boracay than with a sunset sailing adventure. Hop aboard a traditional sailboat from the beachfront and glide across the crystal-clear waters as the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colours. It’s a romantic and peaceful experience you won’t forget.

3. Willys Rock

Willy’s Rock is an iconic volcanic formation located at Station 1 of White Beach. This unique rock formation, topped with a statue of the Virgin Mary, is not only a great photo spot but also offers a glimpse into the island’s geological history. We recommend visiting during low tide for the best experience. Its also worth noting that the section of White Beach next to Willy’s Rock tends to be much quieter than further up the beach, so this is a great place to head to escape some of the crowds!

Want To Get A Feel For Boracay?

Check Out Our Vlog On YouTube!

4. The Motag Living Museum

For a culturally immersive experience, we highly recommend visiting the Motag Living Museum. Step back in time at this interactive museum, which offers a unique glimpse into traditional Filipino village life. Participate in hands-on activities like rice farming, weaving and cooking and gain a deeper appreciation for local customs and traditions. We absolutely loved our experience here and highly recommend it!

If you want to book a visit to The Motag Living Museum we recommend this tour from Tripadvisor.

If You Want To Get A Feel For This Museum You Can Check Out Our Full Experience On YouTube:

5. Bulabog Beach

For those looking for a quieter beach away from the hustle and bustle of White Beach, Bulabog Beach on the eastern side of the island is a must-visit. Known as the kitesurfing and windsurfing capital of Asia, this beach offers perfect wind conditions for water sports enthusiasts. Even if you’re not into extreme sports, the quiet atmosphere and beautiful views make it worth a visit.

6. Crystal Cove Island

Crystal Cove Island, located just a short boat ride from Boracay, is a stunning destination known for its hidden caves and unique rock formations. This small island features two beautiful coves with pristine beaches and vibrant marine life, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling and, in our opinion, one of the best things to do in Boracay.

We highly recommend exploring the hidden caves and enjoying breathtaking views from various vantage points around the island. It’s a great day trip destination, but be aware it can get very busy during the high season.

You can check out our full experience at Crystal Cove on YouTube in this video:

If you want to book a trip to Crystal Cove, we have included a group joiner tour and a private tour option below:

7. Puka Beach

Another great way to escape the crowds on Boracay is to head over to Puka Beach. Named after the abundant puka shells found on its shores, this serene stretch of white sand offers a more laid-back atmosphere compared to White Beach. It’s an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the natural beauty of Boracay.

Be aware lots of day trips do stop at this beach, so for an hour or two, it can sometimes get quite busy, but when the day trips head off again, it’s usually much quieter.

8. Magic Island Cliff Diving

Just a stone’s throw from Crystal Cove Island lies Magic Island. Thrill-seekers won’t want to miss this iconic destination, famous for its cliff diving spots. With platforms ranging from 3 to 10 meters high, there’s a jump for every courage level. Even if you’re not up for diving, the views from the cliffs are spectacular, making Magic Island one of the top things to do in Boracay. Just like Crystal Cove, you can book a day trip to Magic Island as part of an Island-hopping tour. We have included some great options below.

9. Hop On Hop Off Bus

You can also check out our full guide of money-saving hacks for Boracay here: Boracay Philippines | 10 Must-Know Tips To Visit On A Budget

10. Tambisaan Beach

For a local dining experience, visit Tambisaan Beach. Known for its fresh seafood and traditional Filipino cuisine, this is the perfect spot to refuel after a morning of island exploration. Enjoy your meal with your toes in the sand and the sound of waves in the background. A number of island hopping tours stop at this beach, or alternatively, you can take the hop-on hop-off bus and make your own way there!

11. Boracay Island Hopping Tour

Explore the surrounding islands and hidden beaches with a Boracay Island Hopping Tour. Visit secluded coves, snorkel in vibrant coral reefs, and discover the diverse marine life that calls these waters home. It’s a fantastic way to see more of what the region has to offer. This is also the best way to visit Crystal Cove and Magic Island mentioned previously. But there is way more to see than just these two spots; you can even plan your own private trip to visit your favourites!

12. Boracay Land Tour

To truly appreciate Boracay’s beauty and culture, take a land tour of the island. Visit local markets, explore hidden viewpoints, and learn about the island’s history and development. For the thrill seekers, you could also consider an ATV adventure. A Boracay land tour is an excellent opportunity to see beyond the beaches and get a comprehensive Boracay experience.

How Long Should You Stay In Boracay

The ideal length of stay in Boracay really depends on what you are looking for! If you love adventure travel or are a budget backpacker, then you may not need too long here; 2 to 3 days should be enough for you! This will keep costs lower and allow you to enjoy all the top things to do in Boracay. However, if you love to relax on beautiful beaches and treat yourself to luxurious holiday stays, then you can easily spend over a week here!

Where To Stay In Boracay

The Best Time To Visit Boracay

The best time to visit Boracay is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. This period offers sunny weather, calm seas, and pleasant temperatures, ideal for beach activities, water sports, and outdoor exploration.

December to February is particularly popular among tourists, as the weather is most comfortable and the island hosts various festive events. However, if you prefer fewer crowds, visiting in the shoulder months of November and May can provide a good balance of nice weather and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Average Monthly Rainfall In The Philippines

Conclusion

Whether you’re seeking relaxation on pristine beaches, thrilling water sports, cultural experiences, or natural wonders, Boracay has something for everyone. In our opinion, Boracay is definitely more touristy than other areas in the Philippines; however, if you know where to go, you can still get an authentic feel! With such a diverse range of activities, we hope our list of the best things to do in Boracay helps you plan your trip!

Don’t hesitate to let us know any questions you might have in the comments below! 

Big Love 

Beth and Denz 

Looking For Other Top Things To Do In The Philippines?

Check our all our Philippines travel guides with all the top things to do in each destination here!

Additionally, you can check out our complete Philippines packing list, to ensure you are prepped for all that The Philippines throws your way!