It was wintertime in Northern New Jersey, the USA was preparing an escape from the freezing cold during the holiday season, and Boracay island in the Philippines was the perfect place to be where people could experience the summer atmosphere throughout the year. Boracay is a small island near Kalibo in the Western part of the Philippines. One of the popular traveler’s paradises is widely known for its stunning white-sandy beaches, island-hopping adventures, and lively nightlife. It is also a sanctuary for watersport hobbyists, especially scuba divers, snorkelers, kayakers, and windsurfers.
Day 1 – Arrival In Boracay
There are two airports located near the island of Boracay. Caticlan (IATA: MPH) and Kalibo International Airport (IATA: KLO). The Caticlan airport is right next to the Jetty port, where you can take the boat to Boracay, whereas Kalibo is about 72 km away from the jetty, about 90 minutes by bus. Therefore, minivans, coasters, and buses serve travelers between Kalibo International Airport and Caticlan Jetty Port.
I took Air Asia Flight FY7493 from Kuala Lumpur (KUL) at 11:05 am – Arrived at Kalibo Airport (KLO) at 2:50 pm. Then took the prearranged airport transfer from 12go Asia to the Caticlan jetty, then transferred to a boat, and once on the Boracay side of the island, took a van to our Agos Boracay Rooms & Beds accommodation. When we checked in and settled at the hotel, it was late evening, so we took it easy, relaxed a little, and then hung out around the White beach area for a while.
Day 2 – Activities Boracay
On our first full day in Boracay, we were jampacked with activities. We woke up early, got ready, and headed towards the white beach on the west side of the island after breakfast.
Visit The Stunning White Beach
White beach is one of the main attractions and one of the most visited beaches on Boracay island. Therefore the first thing we planned was to explore by taking a long walk on this four kilometers long White beach. That way, we will be able to get to know all the activities around the beach, like resorts, nightlife, restaurants, spas, markets, and exciting beach activities, and get a sense of what this place has to offer. Then, walk from one end to there other and find an interesting subject for my photography.
The best view of Willy’s rock is from White beach, which is one of the most recognizable attractions on the island of Boracay. We had no set schedule to meet, so we wanted to relax, take our time, and enjoy the beautiful beach and crystal clear water.
Visit D’Talipapa Wet Market & Have Lunch at Station 2
During lunchtime, we visited D’Talipapa Wet Market – because a tropical island trip is not complete without trying out local seafood! It was interesting to be able to practice our bargaining skills and buy a different kind of freshly caught seafood from the market, then simply walk to a nearby restaurant to have them cook them for us.
The grilled fish and eggplant for lunch were delicious, and for the first time, I tried this local beer called Red Horse.
Visit Spider House Restaurant for Sunset Viewing
Spider House Restaurant is on the northwestern side of the island and is absolutely one of the best locations on Boracay to watch the sunset. That is why this place gets very busy before the sunset, so we went there a little early to secure a nice cozy table. I got a drink, sat back, and relaxed while watching the activities in the water. We enjoyed every moment since we got there. The sunset was spectacular; based on my great experience, it is a must-do when visiting Boracay.
Hang Out on White Beach at Yellow Cab Pizza Co.
In the evening, there is no better place to be on the island but to hang out at the white beach and watch beach performances while having our dinner.
Day 3 – Island Hopping Around Boracay
On the 3rd day, we planned to visit a small island on the north side of Boracay called Carabao Island. Then late afternoon, return to White beach on Boracay to view the sunset. More details are below.
First Stop at Bulabog Beach to Enjoy The Sunrise
This beach is on the eastern side of Boracay island, and sunrise is best viewed from here, not too far from our hotel; it’s about a 5 to 10 minutes walk. So just plan to get to this beach very early to enjoy the sunrise. Bulabog beach is also ideal for wind and kitesurfing during the windy season between November and April.
A Boat Trip to Carabao Island
Carabao Island, also known as Hambil to the locals only 30 minutes away from Boracay. The island got gorgeous coastlines, crystal-clear turquoise water, and picturesque beaches. It is a perfect day trip location from Boracay. We rented a motorized private boat from the station 1 area of white beach for 6 hours and headed for our day trip. There are two famous beaches on the island; renting a motorbike is the only possible way to get from one end to the other.
Lanas beach is an excellent place for sunset viewing on the island’s west coast. Unfortunately, there are few resorts and restaurants available for day-trippers.
Said Beach is on the east coast, close to the town of San Jose. This beach is very quiet and beautiful, with fine white sand and leaning coconut trees.
Lunch at Nipa Hauz
We had our lunch at Nipa Hauz Resort & Restaurant in Carabao Island; they serve Filipino and Western cuisine. Undoubtedly one of the best food I ever had during my entire Philippines trip.
Return to Boracay from Carabao Island
At the end of our Carabao day trip, we headed back to Boracay, refreshed ourselves at our hotel then returned to the mainstream activities.
Watching Sunset from White Beach was on our Plan
Ask any person who has been to this beautiful island, and they will merely tell you about Boracay’s remarkable sunsets. There are so many ways to enjoy the sunset, and we have done most of all, and today we planned a different way of experiencing the sunset just from the white beach.
Day 4 – Snorkeling and Watersports
On the fourth day, we plan to hire a Banca and visit a few islands, swim, and do snorkeling. Details of our activities are mentioned below.
Early Morning – Island Hopping
Among all the activities, island hopping is one of the most popular ones. It is not expensive to hire a boat or join a tour boat shared by others, depending on if you’re in a small or large group and if you want lunch included in the trip. We did not share the boat with other travelers; instead, we hired a private boat for 4 hours to complete our island hopping adventure.
- Our 1st stop was at Crocodile Island
- 2nd. Magic Island
- 3rd. Stop Crystal Cove
- Final Stop Puka Beach
Quiet and Relaxing Puka Beach
It’s the second largest beach on the island, relatively quieter and beautiful at the northern end of Boracay. Renting ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle) is a fun and great way to explore the long stretch of the beach.
Later we visited Balinghai beach
In time the most visited white beach gets crowded, as we were looking for some privacy in a quiet, relatively less visited beach, so we headed for Balinghai beach. It is easily accessed by a sailboat (Paraw), motor boat Banca) or by rowing a canoe from white beach. It’s a small beach but peaceful with white sand and crystal clear water. Once we got there, somehow, I felt like being on an isolated island away from civilization. We found two small stores selling snacks for beachgoers. The coconut water and beer struck our attention. We enjoyed spending quality time there.
Exploring Ilig-Iligan beach (Lapus Lapus Beach)
Ilig-Iligan beach, also known as Lapus-Lapus Beach, is located on the northeastern side of Boracay. A private beach for Fairways and Bluewater Boracay Resort and championship Philippines Golf Course making it quiet and protected. Moreover, you could visit their bar and restaurant. Ideal for diving, swimming, snorkeling, and just chilling out on the white sandy beach. We enjoyed this windy beach as it was not all crowded as White or Puka beach.
Snorkeling in Crystal Clear Water
Snorkeling is just one of the leading activities on the island since the water is warm, and you will have an excellent chance to discover the colorful wonders under the sea. With the ideal snorkeling methods and tools, you will undoubtedly appreciate sightseeing and touring under the island’s pristine waters. There are many great places to snorkel around Boracay, especially the beaches.
Dinner at Subo Restaurant
Subo Boracay is, without a doubt, the most modern food site on Boracay Island. This is the most recognized Filipino joint on the island, and you should be certain about your shortlist.
Day 5 – Returning to Manila
Today we are returning to Manila from Kalibo by 9 pm flight, so we have enough time to explore a few places on the island of Boracay—mainly a few beaches on the island’s eastern side and then to the top of Mount Luho. After lunch, we will start our journey to Kalibo airport.
Visit Tambisaan Beach
Tambisaan Beach, at the southeastern tip of the island, has several coral gardens just off the shore, perfect for snorkeling. If you have snorkeling gear and want to save more on costs, this is a better alternative to island hopping trips offered on White Beach. Tambisaan also happens to be an alternative port to Cagban, so the channel may sometimes get a bit bus.
Climb Mount Luho
Mount Luho is the highest point in Boracay and one of their tourist attractions that rises to an altitude of 100 meters above sea level. It is a small mountain with a viewing deck. A bird’s-eye view from the top of Mount Luho makes the demand for climbing worthy. On the viewing deck of the mountain, you will see the terrific view of the ocean surrounding the entire island, especially Bulabog Beach, Ilig-Iligan Beach, crocodile island, and Carabao island in the far distance.
We hired a tricycle to get here but saw many people rented ATVs to climb up there.
Lunch at Lemoni Café and Restaurant
The Lemon Cafe Boracay offers different kinds of food, including tasty desserts and roast chicken. The restaurant also serves up Mediterranean cuisine and other delectable dishes. Visit the restaurant and savor the taste of good food.
Heading back to Manila
Airport transfer by Southwest Tour from Agos Boracay to Kalibo Airport Pick up time at 3:40 pm Air Aisa Zest flight Z714 Departure Kalibo (KLO) at 9:40 pm – Arrival Manila at 10:45 pm.
Where to stay in Boracay, Philippines
The concentration of accommodations is located surrounding White Beach, divided into three stations. The north side of the section is station 1, where many of the upscale resorts are located; in the middle section is station 2, mostly populated with mid-range hotels, and for more budget accommodation is in the south end, station 3. I stayed at Agos Boracay Rooms & Beds close to station 2. But here are a few recommendations from friends.
Henann Garden Resort, Boracay
Offering private access to White Beach, Henann Garden Resort, offers private access to White Beach, 4 pools, and a swim-up bar. D’mall Shopping Center is also less than a 5-minute walk away. Landscaped gardens provide guests with a quiet place to relax. In addition, currency exchange and laundry services are available at Henann Garden Resort.
Guests can dine outdoors at Garden Café, which has a delightful Asian and Western menu. Refreshing cocktails and snacks are served at Garden Pool Bar.
Microtel by Wyndham Boracay
Microtel by Wyndham Boracay is a beachfront hotel located on Diniwid Beach. It features an outdoor swimming pool, restaurant, and air-conditioned rooms with a TV. Free Wi-Fi is available in public areas. Guestrooms at Microtel by Wyndham Boracay come with modern décor. Recreation choices include windsurfing or snorkeling. Sightseeing arrangements can be made at the tour desk. The on-site restaurant serves a fine selection of local and international dishes. Microtel by Wyndham Boracay is a 20-minute drive from Cagban Jetty Port.
My Opinion and Last Word
Have you been to Boracay, Philippines? Any cool tips to share?
loved being in Boracay, Philippines, and want to go back again. I hope my story has motivated you to visit Philippines.
Please leave a comment below! I’d love to hear from you to improve my knowledge.
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