Discover the Philippines: Boracay Vacation Ideas & Tips

When you think about island getaways, the Philippines might not be the first place you think of. But the country has a lot to offer. In fact, the country is home to one of the most beautiful islands in the world: Boracay. From white sand beaches with azure waters to exciting nightlife, the island is the perfect place to get away from it all. We’ve got travel tips to get to Boracay and inspiration for what to do when you get there.

Where Is Boracay? 

First things first: Where exactly is Boracay? The resort island is located in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines, just off the northwest coast of Panay. Boracay’s location makes it the ideal place to take in some breathtaking views. 

How to Get to Boracay

There are no direct flights to Boracay from outside of the Philippines. You can fly into Caticlan or Kalibo, and from there take a vehicle to Caticlan Jetty Port. Then, you’ll take a twenty minute boat ride and arrive at the island.

Where to Stay in Boracay

Boracay is divided into three boat stations, and each station has different amenities and qualities that might appeal to some travelers more than others. Boracay resorts come in a wide variety, which allows each visitor to customize their Boracay vacation. Depending on your budget and whether you want to be in the center of activity or you prefer somewhere more calm and secluded, you’re in luck. 

Station 1

This station has been built up with luxury travelers in mind. Here you’ll find the highest-end resort hotels on the island. It’s located in the North-Western section of White Beach. The water here is the shallowest on the island. This tourist traffic here is heavier than Station 3 but lighter than Station 2. 

Station 2 

This station is located in the center of the island. The water here is a little deeper than it is in Station 1. This section of the island runs along the world-famous White Beach and boasts some of the best nightclubs in the country. This is the busiest station. 

Station 3

This station is the quietest part of Boracay and it also offers budget-conscious travelers more options.  

Things to do in Boracay

• Relax on the beach. Beaches are easily the main attractions in Boracay, and for good reason. We’d be hard-pressed to find any traveler who wouldn’t like lounging on the white-sand beaches as brilliant blue waters lap at their toes. Boracay beaches are unforgettable. But the star of the show is the view. Here, you’ll discover firsthand the breathtaking beauty of the Philippines. No wonder the country is often called the “pearl of the orient.”  
• Try some kitesurfing. If you’re in Boracay between late October and early April, one thing you’ll see a lot of is kite-surfing. This is especially true in Bulabog Beach, where the water is perfect for the wind-powered sport. 
• Eat like a local. Food is an important part of any culture. The spices and ingredients that go into a country’s national dish should be experienced in the same way museums and town squares are. Fast food has its time and place, but when you’re in Boracay, why not explore the cuisine the country’s known for: Adobo, a sweet and savory stew that can be mixed with any kind of meat, though chicken adobo is arguably the more popular dish.  
• Take a sunset cruise. Given its prime location off the Pacific Ocean, Boracay has some of the world’s most unbelievable sunsets. You can even take cruises centered around giving visitors an even more beautiful view of the setting sun.
• Experience the nightlife. Whether you’re looking for a place to unwind and listen to music or somewhere to let loose and dance the night away, you’ll find it in Boracay.

Boracay on a Budget

The Philippines is fairly budget-friendly as it is, but there are a few things you can do that will make your vacation even cheaper.

• Stay at a budget hotel. The Station 2 section of Boracay offers a host of decent value hotels. 
• Pack light to avoid extra baggage fees.
• Keep track of your expenses as you go. There are budget-tracking apps you can use or you can just stick to paper and pen. Itemizing as you go will make it easier to be mindful of your expenses. 
• Feel free to haggle. While some places discourage haggling, you can pretty much bargain for anything in Boracay. 

Get Trip Insurance for Your Trip to Boracay

Before you book your trip to the Philippines, get trip insurance to protect your investment. From trip disruptions like missed connections, luggage loss, flight cancellations and delays to emergency medical care including emergency medical evacuation, trip insurance protects both the traveler and their trip. To learn more, visit VisitorsCoverage.