Boracay stands out as one of the Philippines’ top tourist spots, celebrated for its breathtaking white-sand beaches and pristine, crystal-clear waters. It’s been half a decade since my last visit to the island, and I’m excited to return for a solo adventure, eager to witness the current state of this beautiful destination. In this blog, I will share with you my experiences, itinerary, and list of expenses. And hopefully, provide you with a little insight into planning your itinerary.
Boracay Overview:
First, let me give you a short introduction to the island. Boracay is a small island, approximately 7 kilometers long and 1 kilometer wide, located in the western part of the Visayan Sea. It is part of the municipality of Malay in the province of Aklan. Just to give you an idea here’s a map of Boracay.
Where To Stay In Boracay
The first thing that I put into consideration when I plan this trip is where to stay in Boracay. The best option is the hotels near Station 1, 2, or 3 in White Beach but the prices of those accommodations are way beyond my budget. Good thing I found Shore Time Dormitel. It is near the Jetty Port and is 5 minutes away from White Beach. They also have a shuttle service going to Dmall in Station 2 and back to the hotel.
| BOOK NOW – Shore Time Dormitel Boracay, Philippines |
But if you have a budget, my suggestion is to stay the the hotels near White Beach or Bulabog Beach since they are just opposite each other. Here’s the Agoda link so you can choose your hotel.
How to Get from CATICLAN AIRPORT to BORACAY | DIY Transfer
There are no direct flights to Boracay Island, I booked a flight to Caticlan International Airport (MPH), less than 10 minutes away from the port that will bring me to the Island. Here’s the complete guide for your reference.
Things To Do in Boracay
Even if Boracay is just a small Island, there are a lot of things to do. I even tried just chillin’ at the beach for a day and that didn’t make me bored. I listed below those that I tried and enjoyed.
Boracay Island Hopping
I booked a tour from Klook amounting to Php 900 per pax. We started at 10 am and ended at 2:30 pm. I really enjoyed it. We visited Crocodile Island, Puka Beach, and had a free lunch at Crystal Cove. I bring my own snorkeling gear so I enjoyed it when they let us snorkel in an area I forgot the name of. It was a very nice experience.
| BOOK NOW – Boracay Tour Package (Island Hopping) |
Water Activities
Boracay offers a wide range of water activities. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced adventurer, there are options for everyone. When I reached White Beach, there were a lot of locals approaching me to offer different water activities, but I already pre-booked those I wanted to try through the Klook link below. If you are on a budget, and can only try one or two activities, just don’t miss Crystal Kayak and the Parasailing.
| Boracay Crystal Kayak Photo-op Experience |
| Boracay Parasailing |
| Boracay Paraw Sailing |
| Boracay Sunset Paraw Sailing |
| Boracay Helmet Dive Experience |
| Stand-up Paddle Board |
Boracay DIY Land Tour
Aside from the famous Stations 1, 2, and 3 of White Beach, there are also other spots to check out in Boracay. The most common way to land tour the Island is through an e-trike or electric tricycle. It is the most common mode of transportation around the island. To arrange a land tour, you can simply hail an e-trike in the streets. The approved rate is Php 500 per hour with 4 pax. The e-trike land tour usually lasts 3 to 4 hours, so it will cost you around Php 2,000 to Php 3,000 which you can divide among your group. Just a little tip, I’ve heard drivers overcharging tourists so make sure you set the deal straight first before riding an e-trike.
- E-Trike Tour
P500/hour
Maximum of 4 pax
In my case, Php 2,000 is too much since I am alone so I thought of trying to do a DIY style land tour with the use of Boracay Hop-On Hop-Off Shuttle Service. I purchased a 1-Day Unlimited Pass (Per person) through Klook amounting to Php 180. The validity of the pass is 24 hours so I was able to visit places around the Island at my own pace.
| BOOK NOW – Boracay Hop-On Hop-Off Shuttle Service |
Since I purchased online, I got the physical card in the Southwest Office in Station 2 near the well-known restaurant, Jaspers. It is so easy to use because I just tap it inside the bus every time I take a ride. The inside is well-airconditioned and clean.
Places To Visit in Boracay
No matter, what negative remarks I’ve heard about Boracay these past few years I am still in awe of the Island’s beauty. I guess others are right when they say, “You have to see it yourself”. Boracay is still beautiful. Touristy? yes especially if you visit during peak season. But there is room for everyone. If you want a quiet and few people. there are other beaches aside from the famous White Beach that you can enjoy.
These are just a few of the top tourist spots in Boracay. Whether you’re interested in water sports, natural beauty, or simply lounging on the beach, Boracay has something for everyone to enjoy.
White Beach
Boracay’s White Beach is like the focal point of every visit to the island. It is the most famous beach in Boracay and is divided into three sections: Station 1, Station 2, and Station 3. Each section offers a different vibe but they are all connected and just a walking distance to each other.
I am amazed by its stunning powdery white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. I enjoyed relaxing under the swaying palm trees with mango shake. Station 3 is the meet-up place for the Island hopping and parasailing I availed through Klook.
The first thing I did after I checked into my accommodation was to enjoy the sunset here. There are a lot of tourists around 4 pm onwards. There is also a lively nightlife along the beachfront bars and clubs.
Puka Beach
Puka Beach can be accessed via land tour or Island hopping tour. It is located in the northern part of Boracay and is a serene and unspoiled escape from the bustling White Beach. Puka Beach offers a tranquil environment with its coarser, less crowded sands, pristine azure waters, and picturesque natural surroundings. It’s an ideal spot for those looking to unwind, sunbathe, or take leisurely walks along the shore. The beach is named after the beautiful Puka shells that can be found here, making it a great place for beachcombing and collecting souvenirs. Additionally, the absence of large-scale commercial development preserves its natural charm, making it an essential stop for travelers seeking a more peaceful and authentic Boracay experience.
Diniwid Beach
Just a short walk from White Beach, Diniwid Beach has an idyllic and secluded ambiance, providing a perfect escape from the more crowded areas on the island. Diniwid Beach is nestled in a picturesque cove, surrounded by lush vegetation and dramatic cliffs, creating a serene and romantic atmosphere. It provides a peaceful retreat while still being conveniently close to the vibrant scene of White Beach, making it a must-visit for those seeking a more tranquil Boracay experience.
Lambros Point
Lambros Point for me is what separates White Beach Station 1 from Diniwid Beach. The sunset stroll here is a must.
Bulabog Beach
If you look at the map of Boracay above, Bulabog Beach is situated on the opposite side of the island from White Beach. It is a 5-minute walk from Dmall in Station 2 to this beach. The main attractions here is this I heart Boracay and the Slanting Palm tree which to tell you has a long queue for those who wanted to take a picture.
I went to Bulabog Beach almost every day to take a picture of this slanting coconut tree but every time I came here there was a long line waiting for their turn to be photographed here. Good thing, that on my last day I saw just 3 groups waiting so I was able to get my chance. Wooh!
Willy’s Rock
Willy’s Rock is a natural volcanic formation located right off the shore of White Beach. What makes it stand out is the small grotto built into the rock, which houses a statue of the Virgin Mary. This unique and visually striking landmark provides a stunning backdrop for photographs and is often considered one of the most recognizable symbols of Boracay.
D’Mall
D’Mall located in Station 2 is Boracay’s main shopping and dining area. There are numerous shops, restaurants, and bars here. It is very lively here day and night.
Cujo’s Keyhole
Cujo’s Keyhole also known as “The Keyhole” is the new attraction in Boracay. It is located in Boracay Newcoast, a private real estate and resort development on the island’s northeast coast. Most tourists come here via e-trike or a tricycle land tour which includes a Keyhole stop in the itinerary. But I visit here via the Boracay Hop-On Hop-Off Shuttle Service and walk for 5 minutes.
New Coast Beach
To be honest, I never intended to visit New Coast Beach nor does it include on my Boracay itinerary. But I was able to have a glimpse of it when I went to the Keyhole and on my way back I decided to check out the beach. And I’m glad I did because this place is awesome. Very quiet and only a few tourists are here.
The Keyhole is even visible on this beach. It was a nice view.
Boracay Itinerary
Here’s my itinerary during my visit to Boracay. I have 3 full days on the Island. I arrived in Boracay at 4 p.m. on my first day and went home on my fifth day.
Day 1: DIY Transfer from Caticlan Airport to Boracay, Accommodation
03:00 PM – Arrival
03:30 PM – Check-in
05:00 PM – Sunset at White Beach
07:00 PM – Dinner @ Jaspers
08:00 PM – Back at the Hotel
Day 2: Island Hopping Adventure
08:00 AM – Breakfast
09:00 AM – Arrival at Station 3 for the Island Hopping
10:00 AM – Start of Island Hopping
12:00 PM – Lunch at Crystal Cove (Included on the Island Hopping)
02:00 PM – End of Island Hopping
02:30 PM – Back at the Hotel, Rest
05:00 PM – Back at Station 2 and pick up Boracay Hop-On Hop-Off card at Southwest Tour office
07:30 PM – Dinner @ Jaspers
08:00 PM -Explore White Beach and DMall at night
09:30 PM – Back at the Hotel
Day 3: DIY Land Tour
08:00 AM – Breakfast
09:00 AM – Arrival at Station 2
09:15 AM – Start of Land Tour
09:30 AM – Cujo’s Keyhole
10:00 AM – New Cost Beach
11:00 AM – Puka Beach
12:00 PM – Lunch at Puka Beach
01:00 PM – Willy’s Rock
01:30 PM – Lambros Point
02:30 PM – Diniwid Beach
03:30 PM – Back at Station 1, Jonah’s Mango Shake
03:40 PM – Rest and Nap under a tree at Station 1
04:30 PM – Bulabog Beach
06:00 PM – Back at White Beach for the Sunset
07:30 PM – Dinner
08:30 PM – Back at Hotel
Day 4: Thrilling Water Activities
08:00 AM – Breakfast
09:00 AM – Arrival at Station 2
10:00 AM – Parasailing
11:00 AM – Helmet Diving
12:00 PM – Lunch
12:30 PM – Back at the Hotel
02:00 PM – Crystal Kayak at Station 1
02:30 PM – Stand Up Paddle Board
03:30 PM – Chill at White Beach
07:00 PM – Dinner
Day 5: Saying Goodbye to Boracay
04:30 AM – White Beach to wait for the sunrise
06:30 AM – Breakfast
07:00 AM -Back at the Hotel
09:00 AM -Check out
09:30 AM – Start going to Caticlan Airport to catch my 1:00 PM flight
My Boracay Expenses
Here is the list of my expenses when I visited Boracay. Hopefully, this will help you budget your own trip.
| EXPENSES | AMOUNT | |
| Day 0 | Accommodation (5 days and 4 nights) | ₱1,600.00 |
| Roundtrip Plane Ticket | ₱2,750.00 | |
| Day 1 | MyBus to Cebu Airport | ₱50.00 |
| Tricycle to Caticlan Jetty Port | ₱75.00 | |
| Environmental Fee | ₱150.00 | |
| Terminal Fee | ₱150.00 | |
| Boat Fare | ₱50.00 | |
| Multicab to Accommodation | ₱20.00 | |
| Dinner | ₱120.00 | |
| Tricycle back to accommodation | ₱20.00 | |
| Day 2 | Breakfast | ₱160.00 |
| Island Hopping lunch included – OPTIONAL | ₱900.00 | |
| Hop-on Ho-Off Shuttle Bus 1-day Unli Pass | ₱180.00 | |
| Dinner | ₱130.00 | |
| Day 3 | Breakfast | ₱85.00 |
| Lunch | ₱180.00 | |
| Jonah’s Mango Shake | ₱160.00 | |
| Dinner | ₱110.00 | |
| Day 4 | Breakfast | ₱85.00 |
| Parasailing – OPTIONAL | ₱1,800.00 | |
| Helmet Diving – OPTIONAL | ₱800.00 | |
| Lunch | ₱210.00 | |
| Crystal Kayak – OPTIONAL | ₱270.00 | |
| Stand Up Paddle Board – OPTIONAL | ₱460.00 | |
| Dinner | ₱175.00 | |
| Day 5 | Breakfast | ₱85.00 |
| E-trike going to the Port | ₱15.00 | |
| Terminal Fee | ₱150.00 | |
| Boat Fee | ₱50.00 | |
| Tricycle from Caticlan Port to AIrport | ₱100.00 | |
| TOTAL | ₱11,090.00 | |
| TOTAL without the Optional Activities | ₱6,860.00 | |
What to Bring
In summary, I am glad I was able to visit Boracay’ and I can say it never loses its charm. Sure there are other beautiful beaches in the Philippines but Boracay is different. Its unique blend of natural beauty, diverse culture, and recreational opportunities makes it a captivating and appealing destination for travelers seeking a tropical paradise with a mix of relaxation, adventure, and vibrant experiences.
If you have questions let me know in the comment section below. You can also check my How to Get from CATICLAN AIRPORT to BORACAY | DIY Transfer blog. Also, I would really appreciate it if you subscribe to our YouTube channel below:
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