By Kaylin Bailey

Kaylin Bailey

Hi there! I'm Kaylin, and I am from sunny South Africa. For the past eight years, I've been living abroad and exploring the world. My adventures have taken me to some of the most beautiful places and hidden gems around the globe. I thrive on the island lifestyle, but love exploring the hustle and bustle of city life too. My passion is uncovering the coolest activities, the best places to stay, and the most aesthetic beach bars that offer unforgettable experiences. Whether you're looking for travel tips, stunning destinations, or just a slice of paradise, I’m here to inspire and guide you on your own adventures 🌴✨

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11 de septiembre de 2024

Boracay Travel Guide 2024: Itinerary, Budget, and More

Ah, Boracay! The name itself just brings up images of sun-filled beaches, clear waters, and a tropical getaway like no other. If you're planning a trip to Boracay in 2024, you have come to the right place.

This island in the Philippines is a true paradise, with everything from exciting nightlife and luxurious hotels to natural beauty and cultural experiences.

In this Boracay Travel Guide, we'll take you on a journey through all the must-knows for an incredible trip. You'll get some inside tips on how to get to Boracay and the best times to visit. We’ll also dive into crafting the perfect itinerary with some budget-friendly options. You will learn about the top attractions and how to stay connected.

Get ready to use our ultimate travel guide when planning your holiday.

Boracay Travel Tips

When is the Best Time to Visit Boracay?

Boracay is in the tropics, which means it has a tropical climate. There are two distinct seasons: the dry season and the wet season.

• Dry season: November to April (cool, dry weather with moderate winds)
• Wet season: May to October (Heavy rains, high tides and strong winds)

The dry season is by far the best time to visit Boracay, as you can enjoy more beach time and activities. However, Boracay entertainment is largely based on the ocean and beaches, so it could get a little bit boring if you remove them from the equation.

However, the dry season can get very busy, and prices can skyrocket. If you prefer less crowded places and don't mind a little bit of rain, then you should visit during the wet season. You will also be able to do Boracay on a much tighter budget.

Boracay Internet and eSim

Boracay has limited internet activity, and browsing speeds may be slower than when you are used to back home. Intermittent outages may occur, too, which means there is no Wi-Fi. Borcay's internet is generally improving as the influx of tourists keeps visiting. Here are a few things to note:

• Most hotels and restaurants offer decent wifi connections
• Avoid connecting to open WIFI networks as they may be honeypots to monitor traffic and expose your personal information.
• You can purchase a local SIM card, which can sometimes be challenging.

One tip is to get an eSIM before you leave on your journey. You will be connected from when you land until when you leave, and purchasing data and managing the SIM cards is a whole lot easier and more efficient. Buying an eSim from EsimSuf would be a great idea because of the benefits they offer, such as no roaming charges, unlimited Wi-Fi, and easy activation.

Boracay ATM

Boracay used to be an island where you needed cash because there weren't many ATM options to get money. Currently, there are fifteen tellers on the island, with most of the significant Philippine banks. The ATMS on the island are:

• BDO
• Allied Bank
• Metrobank
• BPI

Most of these ATMs have a drawl limit of ₱10,000 per transaction and a maximum of ₱20,000 per day. During peak seasons, ATMs can run out of cash or go offline, and you might have to wait long in these lines, too.

Even though it is stressful, it is recommended to take a large amount of cash in dollars and local currency to avoid mishaps. Most hotels have safes, so once you arrive at your destination, you can lock the safe and take what you may need for the day.

Boracay Saftey

There is a strong police presence on the island, and you might be frightened to see armed men walking around. However, this has made it a very safe place with little crime. It is still recommended that you be wary of your belongings.

Remember to make sure you have a hotel booking before your arrival. The island only allows visitors with reservations, which can cause you great complications.

Drinking tap water is not recommended, and you should purchase bottled water from the stores.

There is strong enforcement of environmentally friendly rules, such as no smoking or drinking on the beaches or setting up your own chairs and umbrellas. So be sure to follow and respect these rules.

How to Get to Boracay

Islands are so beautiful because they are often secluded and far away from big cities. This can sometimes make travel a little more tricky and complicated. The Philippines has made getting to Boracay convenient by offering several options.

The island is served by two airports: Caticlan International Airport (MPH) and Kalibo International Airport(KLO). Here’s a detailed explanation of how to use both routes:

Via Caticlan Airport

1. Fly into Caticlan Airport, which is just a 15-minute drive from the island's ports.
2. When you exit the airport, book a tricycle at the Caticlan Jetty Port or Tabon Port (your driver will know which one to use)
3. When you arrive at the port, fill out your tourist arrival form and present your hotel booking.
4. Pay the fees: Terminal Fee (₱150 regular, ₱120 for seniors/PWD/students, free for kids below 5), Environmental Fee (₱150 for locals, ₱300 for foreigners), and Boat Fee (₱50).
5. Board your assigned boat and enjoy a scenic 15-minute ride to the island.
6. When you arrive at the Boracay port, you will need to get an e-Trike or multi-cab to your hotel.

Via Kalibo Airport

1. Arive at Kalibo Airport. You will have to travel about two hours to get to the Caticlan Jetty Port.
2. You can either take a bus, a van, or a packaged transfer service.
3. Once you reach the Caticlan Jetty Port, you will follow the same steps mentioned above.

Boracay Travel Guide: Boracay Things to Do

Boracay might be a small island, but there are so many different options for things to do. These are some of the more popular and fun things to do when on Boracay Island:

Island Hopping

Get on a boat like a speed boat or sailboat and explore all the surrounding islands. These islands are the Crystal Cove Islands, Magic Island, and Crocodile Island.

You can hop into the water and go snorkeling, diving, or simply just swim and cool off.

Snorkeling and Rock Diving

Take a trip to Ariel’s Point and feel gravity in its most exciting form. Jump off the cliffs into blue blue waters and feel the adrenalin. You can also kayak and snorkel here.

Drive a scooter underwater. Yes you read that right, at Reef Riders you can snorkel with the assistance of underwater scooters.

Parasailing

A fear of heights might make this a no-go, but if you love being in the sky, you can go parasailing behind a boat and see the beautiful islands from the sky.

Sunset Sailing

Go on a romantic or peaceful sailing experience on a traditional Paraw, which is a double-outrigged sailboat. Quiet and comfortable.

Stand-Up Paddleboarding

This takes a little balance to get right but it's worth a try. The waters are flat like a pool so it's perfect for first-timers. Rent a board and paddle off into the sunset. And it's no biggie if you can't stand up. Just float on your knees.

Kitesurfing

Bulabog Beach is known for kitesurfing and is able to host professionals and beginners alike. If you want to try this amazing sport you can get lessons for decent prices.

Beach Bumming

All these adventure tasks might take their toll on your body and energy levels. Instead, pick up a book, have a drink, and simply relax on these beautiful white-sand beaches.

Culinary Adventure

I'm sure you have probably heard about ADOBO, but Boracay has many other delicious food options. From local seafood to whole roasted pigs, your taste buds will be amazed.

Spa and Wellness

When on an Island, a massage or spa treatment is an absolute must. On Boracay island, you can choose from many world-class spas often located beachfront.

ATV Adventures

Venture from the beach into the interior of the island. Explore the jungles on an ATV and get a wonderful adrenaline rush. Visit Mount Luho for amazing views of the island.

Cultural Experience

You can learn about traditional farming and craft-making by visiting the Matag Living Museum and getting a different perspective on Boracay Island.

Nightlife and Parties

Shopping

Walking from destination to destination, you will encounter numerous local shops and sometimes markets. You can buy local souvenirs, crafts, and beachwear. For more shopping, visit the D’mall and Talipapa markets.

Helmet Diving

Technology has improved so much that you can now walk on the ocean floor. This is a unique experience and allows you to get very close to marine life for more extended periods of time.

Boracy 5 Day Itnerary

With all these different things to do, here is a suggested itinerary that can help you get the most out of your time and for those who like to be slightly more organized:

Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation

Morning: Touch Down in Boracay. Check-in and unpack, then walk around and get accustomed to your surroundings.

Afternoon: Have lunch at a beachfront restaurant and then go to Realx White Beach to swim and get your tan on.

Evening: Go for a sunset sail on a Paraw, one of the traditional sailboats. Eat dinner at D’Mall, where you can pick and choose what looks nice to you.

Day 2: Island Hopping Tour

Morning: Have a continental breakfast at your hotel. Then, take an island hopping tour. Visit Pula Shell Beach, Crystal Cove Island, and Crocodile Island.

Afternoon: Lunch is generally included in the tour, so you can enjoy a seafood BBQ on the beach.

Evening: Relax at your hotel and go out to shop and eat dinner

Day 3: Adventure and Water Activities

Morning: Enjoy a big breakfast at your hotel, then head to BulaBog Beach to try windsurfing or kite surfing.

Afternoon: Have some traditional food for lunch and try your hand at paddleboarding. Take a jetski or go parasailing.

Evening: Return to White Beach for a relaxing evening. Have dinner on the beachfront and enjoy some live music and fire dancing.

Day 4: Inland Tour and Cultural Experience

Morning: Enjoy your hotel breakfast and take an inland tour, which includes a visit to Mount Luho. Then, go on an ATV adventure and visit the butterfly gardens.

Afternoon: Lunch at a local restaurant and visit the Boracay Wildlife Sanctuary or the oceanarium.

Evening: Go to a cultural show or fira dance performance and eat at a Filipino restaurant.

Day 5: Leisure and Departure

Morning: Have breakfast at the hotel and spend your last morning relaxing on the beach or getting a massage at a beachside spa.

Afternoon: Go back to your favorite lunch spot on the island and get some last-minute shopping done.

Evening: Check out of the hotel and depart for your flights back home.

Boracay Budget Breakdown

Depending on the activities you want to do, your budget will differ. Per day, you will spend a minimum of PHP 3490 or USD63.00 if you follow the above itinerary. This excludes your accommodation and flights. Because it's hard to give you an exact number, let's break down the coasts:

Conclusion

In finishing, let this guide serve you as a trusted companion that will equip you with all the essentials for an unforgettable Island Escape. With these insider tips and insights, you will have a smooth trip without any hassles or problems.

While preparing to create cherished memories amongst Boracy's sun-filled beaches, crystal clear water, and vibrant atmosphere, remember our travel tips and consider them in your planning.

So, embrace the island lifestyle, enjoy the tasty cuisine, and create long-lasting memories.