Boracay needs no introduction. When people hear its name, the first things that come to mind are sugary white sand, crystal-clear water, relaxation, and nightlife—and honestly, that image still holds true.
Boracay is a small island in Aklan, Philippines, consistently recognized as one of the world’s top beach destinations. Over the years, it evolved from a quiet backpacker haven into a global tourism icon—until it reached a point where the island needed to pause, reset, and heal.
I’ve only been to Boracay twice, but those visits were enough to show me its different faces: famous, crowded, closed, and reborn. This DIY travel guide is a mix of personal experience, practical planning, updated activities, and honest reflections to help you plan your own Boracay trip—smoothly and responsibly.
📌 What’s Inside This DIY Guide
🏖️ Beaches & Boat
Stations Explained
✈️ Why Visit Boracay?
📅 Best Time to Visit Boracay?
🛫
How to Get to Boracay
🚶
How to Get Around Boracay
🎉
What to Do & Nightlife (Activities + Prices + Booking Tips)
👀
What to See Beyond White Beach
🍴
Where to Eat in Boracay
🏨
Where to Stay (By Station)
📅
Sample 3-Day DIY Itinerary
💡
Budget & Travel Tips
🚨
Rules, Regulations & Rehab Updates
🧠
Final Thoughts
🌊 From Backpacker Secret to World-Class Island
During the 1980s, Boracay was a quiet, budget-friendly destination popular among backpackers. By the 1990s, it had exploded into global fame, attracting tourists like migrating birds seeking sun and sea.
In 2012, Boracay was even named the world’s second-best destination, next only to Providenciales in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Boracay’s name has several origin stories, but the one that resonates most with me is that it came from “Borac,” meaning white cotton—a perfect description of the island’s iconic sand.
🏖️ Boracay Beaches & Boat Stations Explained
Boracay has several beaches, but the most famous are White Beach and Bulabog Beach.
🏝️ White Beach (Main Beach)
White Beach is divided into three boat stations used as location references:
- 🚤 Station 1 – wide shoreline, fine sand, upscale resorts
- 🚤 Station 2 – the center: D’Mall, restaurants, bars, and shops
- 🚤 Station 3 – budget stays and lively nightlife
Station 1 is known for its shoreline, while Station 3 is more popular for nightlife.
🌬️ Bulabog Beach (Adventure Side)
During Habagat (Southwest Monsoon) season, White Beach waters can become unsafe for activities. Bulabog Beach, located on the opposite side of the island, becomes the better option.
- Ideal for kitesurfing and wind sports
- Sand is slightly coarser but still white
- Around 15 minutes walking from White Beach
- About 10 minutes by tricycle, depending on traffic
✈️ Why Visit Boracay?
Boracay is a world-famous island in the Philippines, known for its powdery white sand, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant island life. Whether you’re a solo backpacker, a couple on a romantic escape, or a family seeking a fun adventure, Boracay delivers unforgettable memories—all without breaking the bank.
📅 Best Time to Visit Boracay
- Peak Season: December to May (dry season)
- Off-Peak: June to November (expect rain but fewer crowds)
- Pro Tip: Visit in late January to early February for great weather and smaller crowds before summer hits.
🛫 How to Get to Boracay
✈️ Via Caticlan Airport (MPH) –
Recommended
Manila → Caticlan → Tricycle → Boat → Tricycle
✔ Fastest and most convenient
✈️ Via Kalibo Airport (KLO) –
Budget Option
Manila → Kalibo → 1.5–2 hrs land travel → Boat → Tricycle
✔ Cheaper flights, longer travel time
💡 Tip: If you value time and comfort, choose Caticlan.
Related Posts:
🚗 How to Travel from
Boracay to Kalibo: Complete Guide with Fares & Tips
✈️ How to Travel from Kalibo
Airport to Boracay Island: Van, Boat & Tricycle Guide
✈️ Manila to Boracay TravelGuide: Fly vs RoRo Ferry + Bus Route
🛬 How to Get from
Caticlan Airport to Boracay Island (Updated 2024 Guide)
🚶 How to Get Around Boracay
- Walking: Best for White Beach and Stations 1–3
- E-Trikes: Main island transport (agree on fare first)
- Boats: Used for island hopping and tours
- Motorbike rentals: Optional, not necessary
💡 Boracay is small—walking + e-trikes are usually enough.
🚨 The 2018 Boracay Closure: A Wake-Up Call
📅 February 2018
A nationwide announcement shocked the country: Boracay
would be closed starting April 26, 2018 for a six-month rehabilitation.
Only registered residents and employees were allowed entry. Many doubted the closure would actually happen.
📅 April 26, 2018
Boracay officially closed.
- About 400 hotels and restaurants were ordered shut for environmental violations
- 3 casinos were permanently closed
- Structures within the 30-meter shoreline easement were demolished
The impact was massive:
- Estimated ₱20 billion loss in potential gross receipts
- Around 700,000 foreign tourist bookings canceled
- Projected ₱30 billion loss in tourism revenue
- Reduced airline flights
- Thousands of workers affected
Despite this, crime rates dropped significantly—from 176 cases the previous year to just 14 index crimes during the closure period.
For me, the closure was painful—but necessary. Saving Boracay before it was too late mattered more than short-term loss.
🔧 Rehabilitation Updates & Reopening
📅 October 26, 2018 – Soft Opening
Boracay reopened with strict regulations:
- Proposed daily tourist limits
- Entry prioritized for tourists with confirmed hotel reservations
- No smoking or drinking in public places and beaches
- Large-scale parties like Laboracay banned
- Fire eaters, beach vendors, roaming masseuses, bonfires, and stray animals removed from the beachfront
- Water sports temporarily restricted
Rehabilitation continued in phases until 2019, with visible improvements across the island.
🎉 What to Do in Boracay (With Prices & Booking Tips)
Boracay isn’t the kind of place where you need to do everything to feel satisfied. I learned early on that choosing just a few activities—and actually enjoying them—makes the trip far more memorable. Whether you’re craving adrenaline, calm, or something in between, Boracay lets you build your days at your own pace. These are the activities I’ve tried, loved, and would happily do again—or recommend to friends visiting for the first time.
1. 🪂 Parasailing – Soar
Above Paradise
Price: ₱1,500–₱2,500 / person
Duration: 10–15 minutes
Best Time: Morning to late afternoon
Booking Tip:
Book via DOT-accredited operators or hotel desks. Avoid booking on windy
days.
2. 🚤 Jet Skiing – Speed on
the Waves
Price: ₱1,500–₱2,000 / 15 minutes
Best Time: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Booking Tip:
Ask for a safety briefing and instructor guidance if it’s your first time.
3. 🚤 Banana Boat Ride –
Group Fun
Price: ₱300–₱600 / person
Duration: 5–10 minutes
Booking Tip:
Negotiate if you’re a group—bundle discounts are common.
4. 🎐 Kite Surfing – Bulabog
Beach Favorite
Price:
• Lessons: ₱2,000–₱3,500 / hour
• Rental: ₱1,000–₱1,800
/ hour
Best Time: Amihan & Habagat seasons
Booking Tip:
Book early morning for consistent winds.
5. 🛶 Island Hopping –
Must-Do Experience
Price: ₱1,200–₱1,800 / person
Includes: Boat, guide, snorkeling gear, sometimes lunch
Booking Tip:
Always ask what’s included before paying.
6. 🐠 Snorkeling – Easy &
Relaxing
Price: ₱300–₱600 (gear rental)
Best Time: Morning
Booking Tip:
Often included in island hopping—no need to book separately.
7. 🧗 Ariel’s Point – Cliff
Diving Day Trip
Price: ₱2,000–₱3,000
Includes: Boat transfers, lunch, activities
Booking Tip:
Book as a day tour with transfers included.
8. 🧘 Spa & Wellness
Price: ₱600–₱2,500+
Best Time: Late afternoon or evening
Booking Tip:
Walk-ins are fine, but book sunset slots early.
Related Posts:
📍 Boracay Side Trips:Must-Visit Spots Beyond the Beach
🌴 Top Boracay Activities
2025 – Water Sports, Island Hopping & More for Every Budget
🏖️ Top 6 Budget-FriendlyActivities in Boracay You Can’t Miss (Even With Limited Time)
🏝️ Island Hopping in
Boracay: Ilig-Iligan & Crystal Cove on a Budget
🎉 Nightlife & Island Energy
Boracay isn’t just about beach lounging—it’s also one of the top nightlife destinations in the world. From chill beachfront bars to full-on party scenes, nights on the island can go as quiet or as wild as you want.
That said, popularity came at a cost.
👀 What to See in Boracay
Beyond the famous stretch of White Beach, Boracay hides quieter corners and viewpoints that reveal a different side of the island. These are the spots I wandered into when I wanted a break from the crowds—places where the island feels more personal, slower, and just as beautiful. Some are quick stops, others are worth lingering in, but all add depth to the Boracay experience.
- 🐚 Puka Shell Beach – quieter, rustic charm
- 🪨 Willy’s Rock – best during low tide
- 🌄 Mount Luho – island’s highest viewpoint
- 🏝️ Ilig-Iligan Beach – peaceful alternative
🎨 Boracay’s Lost Gem: MyUnforgettable Visit to the Trick Art Museum
🚲 Boracay’s Sky Cycle: Thrill, Fear & Laughter — A Ride to Remember
🎢 Farewell, Happy Dreamland: Boracay’s Only Theme Park is Gone But Not Forgotten
🍴 Where to Eat in Boracay (Foodie-Approved)
Eating in Boracay is part of the adventure. Some meals were planned, others were happy accidents after long walks or sunset watching. From casual beachside bites to comfort food I kept craving, these are the places that stood out to me—not just for the food, but for the moments tied to them. Come hungry, and don’t be afraid to try more than you planned.
- 🔥 Big Smoke – grilled favorites
- 🥩 Backyard BBQ – meat lovers only
- 🍔 Bite Club – addictive snacks
- 🍻 Gerry’s Grill – food + drinks
- 🍹 Jona’s Fruitshake – PB & banana is a must
- 🍕 Shakey’s Pizza – mojos required
- 🍽️ Globy Traveling Chef – underrated gem
- 🍦 Red Bean Hallowich – creative desserts
💳 Tip: Many places are still cash-only.
👉 Read more: 🍽️ Boracay Food Guide: Best Restaurants & Must-Try Eats on the Island
🏨 Where to Stay in Boracay (Quick Guide)
Where you stay in Boracay shapes your entire experience more than you might expect. I’ve learned that it’s not about choosing the “best” hotel—it’s about choosing what fits your travel style. Whether you want quiet mornings, easy access to food and nightlife, or budget-friendly comfort, Boracay’s stations offer different moods. This section helps you decide where you’ll feel most at home.
- Station 1: Quiet, scenic, upscale
- Station 2: Central, lively, convenient
- Station 3: Budget-friendly, energetic
Choose based on travel style, not hype.
👉 Also read these posts:
🏨 Where to Stay Outside
White Beach Boracay (2025 Guide) – Hidden Gems & Quiet Resorts
🏨 Best Hotels in BulabogBeach Boracay (2025 Travel Guide)
🏨 Top Hotels in Boracay
Station 3: Complete Guide with Contacts & Booking Info
🏨 Where to Stay in
Boracay: My Honest Hotel Reviews + Budget & Luxury Options
🏨 Top Recommended Hotelsin Station 2, Boracay
🏨 Top Hotels in Station
1, White Beach, Boracay Island – Your Ultimate Accommodation Guide
🗓️ Sample 3-Day Boracay Itinerary
Boracay is one of those places where it’s tempting to do everything—but based on my experience, the island is best enjoyed when you slow down. This 3-day itinerary isn’t about checking off every activity. It’s about balance: beach time, adventure, rest, and those quiet moments that make island trips memorable.
This sample 3D2N Boracay itinerary works well for first-timers, couples, barkadas, and even solo travelers who want a mix of fun and downtime—without feeling rushed.
Day 1 – Arrival & Sunset
- Arrival and hotel check-in
- Beach walk along White Beach
- Sunset viewing
- Dinner by the shore
Day 2 – Island Fun
- Island hopping / water activities
- Afternoon rest
- Sunset sail
- Night stroll at D’Mall
Day 3 – Slow Goodbye
- Early morning beach walk
- Breakfast with a view
- Souvenir shopping
- Departure
Related Posts:
🌅 Boracay Ocean Tower
View Point: 360° Panoramic Views & ATV Ride Ending Spot
🪂 Soaring Over Boracay:My Thrilling (and Terrifying) Parasailing Experience
🚨 Rules & Rehab Reminders
- No smoking or drinking on public beaches
- No large beach parties
- DOT-accredited hotels & tours only
- Waste segregation strictly enforced
💭 These rules helped Boracay breathe again.
💸 DIY Boracay Budget Breakdown (3D2N Stay)
One of the biggest myths about Boracay is that it’s always expensive. Yes, it can be luxurious and over-the-top—but it doesn’t have to be.
On my trips, I learned that with early planning, smart choices, and a little flexibility, Boracay can actually be done on a reasonable DIY budget. You don’t need fancy resorts or overpriced tours to enjoy the white sand, sunsets, and island vibe. What you need is a realistic breakdown of where your money goes—and where you can save.
Below is a sample 3 days / 2 nights Boracay budget, perfect for solo travelers, barkadas, or couples who want to experience the island without overspending.
💡 Think of this as a guide, not a rule. Prices may vary depending on season, promos, and how early you book—but this gives you a solid starting point for planning your own Boracay trip.
| Category | Estimated Cost (PHP) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| ✈️ Flights (Roundtrip from Manila) | ₱2,500 – ₱4,000 | Book 2–3 months in advance for seat sales |
| 🏨 Accommodation | ₱1,500 – ₱2,000 / night | Budget guesthouses or hostels (Station 3 or inland) |
| 🍽️ Food | ₱200 – ₱500 / day | Mix of carinderias, local eats & casual restos |
| 🎉 Activities | ₱1,000 – ₱2,000 | Island hopping, snorkeling, paddleboarding |
| 🛺🚤 Transport (Land & Boat) | ₱600 – ₱800 | Airport transfers, boat fees, terminal charges |
| 💰 Estimated Total | ₱6,000 – ₱9,000 | All-in budget for 3 days / 2 nights |
📸 Instagram-Worthy Spots
- Willy’s Rock (Station 1)
- Puka Shell Beach
- Diniwid Beach sunset
- Palm tree swing at Ilig-Iligan Beach
- Boracay keyhole near Newcoast
✅ Quick Tips for First-Time Travelers
- Bring cash; not all areas accept cards.
- Respect local culture and leave no trace.
- Apply reef-safe sunscreen.
- Avoid traveling during major public holidays unless you love crowds.
🧠 Boracay isn’t just about white sand anymore—it’s about balance.
Balance between fun and responsibility.
Between tourism and preservation.
Between doing more and slowing down.
Whether you’re parasailing above the sea, eating your way through Station 2, or simply watching the sunset barefoot on the sand, Boracay reminds us that paradise survives only when we take care of it.
And when we do—it welcomes us back.
🌿 Lakwatserang Ligaw Quote
🌊 “Boracay reminds us that paradise isn’t guaranteed—it survives only when we choose to protect it.”💖
📢 Have you visited Boracay before or after the rehabilitation?
💬 Share your experience
in the comments
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