Travel Philippines: Boracay

Boracay

Boracay is a tropical island surrounded by stunning white sand beaches and clear blue waters located about an hour's flight from Cebu or Manila just off the larger Philippines island of Panay.

For beach connoisseurs, Boracay competes with the best beaches in more popular destinations such as the Caribbean and the South Pacific as well as neighboring Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia. For those wanting to just lounge around and top up their tan, beachfront hotels usually have lounge chairs set up just a few steps away from the hotel entrances. The more active will appreciate water sports and activities such as sailing, windsurfing, snorkeling, diving and jet skiing. The fun in Boracay doesn't end when the sun sets. The nightlife pulsates with many bars and restaurants serving food, drink and fun until the wee hours of dawn.

Booking.com

Understand[edit]

Map of Boracay

Areas[edit]

White Beach, Boracay

White Beach is divided into five areas from

Area 1 — Boracay Terraces (north) to Willy's Rock
Area 2 — From Willy's Rock to Red Coconut Resort
Area 3 — From Red Coconut to Boat Station 2
Area 4 — From Boat Station 2 to Station 3
Area 5 — From Boat Station 3 to Angol Point

In every station, there are two lifeguards on foot patrolling equipped with whistle, life buoy and hand-held radio. The boat station 2 is the lifeguard and rescue command center.

Climate[edit]

During the dry season of Nov-May (also known as Amihan), White Beach is calm and very suitable for swimming. The other side of the island has large winds and waves making it suitable for kite surfing and windsurfing.

During the rainy season of Jun-Oct (also known as Habagat), this is reversed, with a risk of typhoons (although this area of the Philippines is relatively protected by the mountains ofNegros and Cebu to the south-east from the worst weather). White Beach often gets large winds and waves which sometimes makes it unsuitable for swimming. Current weather conditions.

Get in[edit]

Whether you go by plane or by boat, you will pass through the small town of Caticlan on the "mainland" of Panay island. Outrigger boats or "bancas" leave every few minutes from Caticlan's jetty port. After exiting the Caticlan Airport, find the tricycle stand to the right, past the various resort offerings. A tricycle and boat for two people from Caticlan Airport to the Boracay jetty is ₱150. Tourists also have to pay a terminal fee of ₱100 and an environmental fee of ₱75. Tricycles are available at Cagban to bring passengers to their hotels. Tricycle fare is from ₱20 per pax up to ₱150 per trip depending where your resort is. If you have luggage, the standard fare is ₱100 minimum.

From Cagban Port to Station 1, the most that you should pay is ₱25 per head. That is, if you don't mind sharing the tricycle with other tourists. If you don't want to rent the tricycle and allow the driver to pick up other passengers along the way, say you just want the "Individual" price and not a "Special" journey.

Beware of the boat crews and workers at the ports. Some will aggressively rush to you and reach for your bags and belongings without explicitly asking if you would like help, and will all but demand a tip after carrying your things, even if it's only for several meters.

By plane[edit]

There are two airports located near to the island of Boracay.

Caticlan or Godofredo P. Ramos Airport (IATA: MPH). Only relatively small aircraft can land at this airport. Airlines with flights to and from Caticlan are: Cebu Pacific Air from Manila and Cebu, Philippine Airlines and SkyJet from Manila only. From Caticlan airport you can either take a tricycle (₱50 fixed price for airport tricycle, or ₱10 per passenger if you walk out to the main road and catch the shared ride on a tricycle passing by) or walk (10 minutes) to Caticlan Jetty Port. Due to short runway, only 10 kg of checked baggage is allowed on Caticlan flights (in 2015 it changed to 20kg on some rates on Cebu Pacific). Ttechnically, you may be allowed to bring more for an excess baggage fee, which is ₱200 per kilogram for Cebu Pacific, but this is not guaranteed. And it is quite common for your luggage to be delayed (ie put on the following flight) when flying into Caticlan without prior notice. If you are not comfortable on small planes (or with rough landings), you should consider flying into and out of the larger Kalibo Airport. After a lease was given to the rapacious San Miguel corporation by the local government, the terminal fee for flying out of this airport was increased. Make sure you have extra pesos when departing from here.

Kalibo International Airport (IATA: KLO) (ICAO: RPVK) - Compared to Caticlan's airport, the Kalibo Airport runway is able to land larger aircraft such as Boeing 737s and Airbus A320s. However, it is further from Caticlan's jetty port which is 80 minutes away. Cebu Pacific Air, Air Asia, Philippine Airlines[1] connects Kalibo to Manila, Taipei, Shanghai and Seoul. Philippines AirAsia connects from Clark/Angeles City in central Luzon to Kalibo with daily return flights. Tigerair Philippines connects Kalibo to Clark, Manila and Singapore.

There are minivans, vans, coasters and buses that serve travelers between Kalibo International Airport and Caticlan Jetty Port. Be sure to ask if your ticket includes a ferry ticket to Boracay (₱200 for a minivan and ferry, ₱300 for a more comfortable bus), and how much the additional environmental taxes will be (Official ₱100 for environmental fee and ₱75 for jetty fee that you have to pay in Caticlan port, regardless of which airport you fly into). Minivans start moving when they are full of customers (usually about 10 seats) so be prepared to wait up to half an hour in some cases.

After stepping off the boat in Boracay, you can see at least 10 tricycles waiting and offering to take you to your hotel. The trip usually costs up to ₱100. There are also several agents greeting you and offering hotels in case you have already not booked.

Southwest Tours offer a door-to-door service for 525P (One-way) or 995p(Return), you can book with them at the booth right outside the terminal. Price includes ferry terminal fee and environmental tax.

Note that if your flight connects in Manila, your ticket purchased after 1 August 2012 now includes the domestic terminal fee of ₱200. For flights to Korea, Singapore and other international destinations a terminal fee of ₱500 is to be paid after check in.

By road and ferry (RoRo)[edit]

The "Nautical Highway" is a combination of overland highways and roll-on, roll-off (RoRo) vessels that allows you to bring your vehicle to Panay Island[2] and visit key cities like Kalibo. Taking your car all the way to Boracay, though, isn't possible.

Public transport also operates on this same route and is the most cost-effective way of traveling between Manila and Boracay. Assuming good connections, the total journey time is around 12 hours.

The easiest way of arranging this is to book a van in Manila by contacting private operators such as Angel Star (+63 2 783-0886 c/o Abner) and Gope (+63 2 732-6891 c/o Cesar). This will enable you to book a straight trip from Manila to Caticlan at the cost of ₱1200, more or less. Their group operates several passenger vans which can load 10-14 or 15-18 persons. You book the trip exclusively or share with fellow travellers. The van leaves at 21:00 daily from Manila, travelling through Batangas-Calapan-Roxas (arrives Roxas at 05:00 or 06:00) to catch the 08:00 or 10:00 boat to Caticlan, where you are expected to arrive between noon and 2PM. Before proceeding to Boracay Island though, be sure to get your return ticket (Roxas-Manila) at the Caticlan Ferry Terminal (inquire about the updated schedule from the staff of the van operators). Take an early dinner before boarding the van and bring water and something to eat while on travel. Riding a van gives you a more relaxed pace to Caticlan because you wouldn't have to stop in many sub-destinations which lengthen your trip and therefore can be truly tiresome.

There are one or two ferries per day direct from Batangas Port to Caticlan Port, which eliminates the long sea and road journey from Batangas to Roxas. This ferry's offered by [http://travel.2go.com.ph/ 2GO Travel] (formerly Superferry).

The more challenging (but slightly cheaper) do-it-yourself version goes as follows:

The easiest way would be to book a straight trip that allows you to purchase just one ticket from Cubao terminal to Caticlan Port. The cost is between ₱1000-1200.

But if you really want to save money, you can also commute from Cubao bus terminal station (near Alimall). There is really no difference except for the fact that you need to purchase ticket/s in every stop.

Cubao-Batangas Best leave 07:00-08:00 so you arrive in Batangas Port before 22:00.

Batangas-Calapan the trip takes 2 hours via cargo ship or an hour to one hour and a half via Supercat. Do not purchase tickets for the Calapan to Roxas Van as this can either be a scam or you end up squeezed in one van along with several other passengers with tickets.

Calapan-Roxas Takes about 4 hr. Make sure you leave early so you arrive before 04:00. In the morning, the ship to Caticlan usually leaves at 02:00 and 04:00 and the next trip won't be until 10:00. The 10:00 trip usually leaves late.

You can also start your journey with Philtranco, Alps, Dimple, Ceres and Rodastco coaches which leave at regular intervals throughout the day from Cubao, serving the Manila-Caticlan route for ₱1,200. Rodastco also offers a door-to-door service with pick ups anywhere in Metro Manila. Not all buses have Wi-Fi on board, even though most of them do. The contact numbers for trip booking are +63 2 732-6891 or +63 917 382 0426, or +63 919 382 0426.

Get around[edit]

Boracay sandcastle

Locals use motorized tricycles, which act as the island's taxis and make up most of its traffic. The fares for the tricycles are fixed according to the distance, and there is government form that they are supposed to display up front that has the fares. Unfortunately Boracay trike drivers are some of the most dishonest rip off artists anywhere. There are two kinds of drivers, the first do the regular routes, you can tell because they will have Filipinos paying the government fair in it. If the trike is empty or has others foreigners in it, then no way they will give you the regular fare. The second kind doesn't do the regular routes but waits for foreigners they can rip off. Unfortunately most of the regular route drivers as of 2015 behave disrespectfully to a foreigner who wants to travel at the normal fare, more often than not refusing to take him/her. If you ask them the price they will either quote you 100 pesos (about 10 times the normal price) even if there are 4 Filipinos on the trike already or refuse to answer pretending to be retarded. They will also pretend to be hurt and make you feel cheap if you don't allow yourself to be ripped off. Don't fall for this scam. Apparently they have some cartel going where they agreed to behave this way to foreigners, because 80% of them follow this exact pattern. If you are savvy, and refuse to get ripped off, you have to deal with the fact that only about one if five are going to be honest. Ironically, these people are making a lot of money. Probably about 30 times the salary of an average Filipino, so please do not let them get away with this behavior. Call them out on their disrespectful behavior. Normal Filipinos are extremely friendly and respectful of foreigners, and the members of this mafia need to be stopped to make Boracay a better place.

Short rides on busy routes, say from D'Mall to Station 3 or from Station 1 to Station 3, are a standard rate of ₱20 per passenger if you hire a regular trike as they drive past. Trikes that are stationary and seeking passengers are seen as seeking a chartered fare and fares will start at ₱60. In short, if you wish to save money, you should flag down a moving trike that has people in it. Drivers often charge higher prices in the evenings.

Long rides, like Puka beach to D'Mall, should cost around ₱40. Drivers waiting near beaches, hotels, etc, generally ask a higher price like ₱150-200 even if you're alone. May be worth bargaining if there are a few people with you and you want an individual ride - otherwise, better catch a passing-by tricycle on the main road.

Scooters provide the best flexibility at a reasonable price. The downside is having to deal with island traffic which can be unnerving for visitors unused to the aggressive tricycle drivers.

Mountain bikes are also available for rent at several locations along White Beach, which is off limits to motorized vehicles.

To explore around the island, rent a native sailboat (paraw) or motorized outrigger (banca) and visit the many beaches of Boracay. Unless you are booking a sailboat or banca through your hotel or resort or an established tour operator, avoid paying for sailing trips in advance. Some tourists pay for a sailboat ride the day before only to be disappointed when the sailboat never shows up the following day.

See[edit]

Willy's Rock, White Beach, Boracay

Puka Beach

White Beach - This is what most people are here for. Not only is it a lovely stretch of powdery white sand against azure water, it's also the commercial center of the island. The long beach is divided into three sections, Station 1, Station 2, and Station 3. Station 1 is the northernmost and has the widest beachfront, where prime hotels and resorts are located. Accommodations are pricier, but quality is generally the best as well. Station 2 is the commercial and geographical center of white beach. This is the center of it all for for shopping, eating, partying, and etc. That said, the beach here is also the most crowded, and the area the noisiest. Station 3 is the southernmost section; quieter than station 2, it is the least developed, and also the lowest priced. All of White Beach from the northernmost tip of Station 1 to the southernmost of Station 3 (~4km) is open to the public, so one can relax and/or swim wherever you like, regardless of hotel location.

Puka Beach - A quiet stretch of white sand along the northern tip of the island, Puka Beach is an image of what most people expect on a tropical island: white sand, azure water, and relatively empty. This is where locals gather the small puka shells for some of the jewelry that is sold on the island so expect the sand to be more coarse than on White Beach. The water tends to be a little rougher on this side of the island but it is much quieter. Similarly, there are fewer services -- there are only a couple of restaurants, but you likely won't have a problem getting a cold drink or an ice cream as there are a few vendors that patrol the beach. The main road in Boracay terminates at Puka Beach therefore you'll be able to hire a tricycle to get there in less than 10-15 minutes from central White Beach. Make sure you arrange a pick up if it is a quiet day and no tricycles are hanging around the beach. Most people experience Puka as one of their sailboat or banca stops during a day trip. This is a good spot for a picnic, but be sure to bring your trash home with you.

Baling Hai Beach - This is a quiet little cove just north of Diniwid Beach, where you can enjoy swimming, snorkeling and dining in a relaxed, peaceful environment. There are some fantastic views from the cliff top restaurant. Baling Hai is often included as a stop-off on an island boat tour.

Bulabog Beach - Come there on a windy days to see kiteboarders doing high jumps and crazy tricks.

The Bat Cave. One will see in several tour guides and maps of Boracay something called the Bat Cave, which houses many small insectivorous bats (the larger fruit bats roost in the trees on the hillside above Punta Bunga Beach), and locals will be more than happy to accompany you there for a fee, or "tip". The cave is on the western-end of the island and down several dirt roads. The guide will then take you on a short hike through the forest to the mouth of a cave, which drops down at a very steep angle. The mouth of the cave is littered with large boulders, and is extremely difficult to enter and walk down. There is no visible path, no handrail, and the stones are extremely slippery with slime and bat guano, as well as extremely dangerous, since the cave is at such an extreme angle. Also, the air inside the cave is very warm and humid, and in addition to the amount of guano, is very difficult to breathe. Additionally, several snakes live inside the cave. Caution should be taken by those visiting and entering the cave. There are bats in the cave, but down at the bottom of it in the dark, and unless you have a flashlight or are there at dusk, you won't see them. The ceiling of the cave is interesting, however, with multiple, small stalactites. Just nearby, you can find another cave, called "crystal" cave which has a lot of stalactites and a hole on the opposite site of the entrance, from which you can watch out to the sea if you dare to climb up to it. You will have to pay ₱50 entry-fee to visit both caves on behalf of the family that owns the land, in addition to paying your guide. Visiting both caves can cost up to ₱2500 for the guide, but this is the "rich tourist price", so try to bargain if you like.

Do[edit]

Cliff Diving at Ariel's Point

Fire Dancing

Locals working in tourism will patrol the beach offering various excursions such as scuba diving or ATVing, and you are almost certain to be solicited. You should never agree to the price that is first quoted or that is written on the informational literature provided; solicitors can almost always be talked down and will often set the price far too high.

Scuba diving[edit]

For those interested in Scuba Diving and Diving Packages, there are literally dozens of Dive Centres along the White Beach; it is a good place to learn or to improve your skills, although tech, cave, wreck and instructor level qualifications can be earned. Cost is typically PHP3000 (about $64) for a discover scuba dive which includes hire of all equipment. The dive centres operate a cartel and have agreed standard prices amongst themselves so prices will be the same at all centres. There are 25-30 dive sites within 10-15 minutes speed boat ride from the beach, suitable for beginners up to advanced level. Dives range from 'Angol Point' (10m), through 'Crocodile Island' (22-25m), a straightforward wall dive, up to 'Yapak'- a deep wall dive suitable for only the most experienced divers due to strong currents, although there is the possibility of seeing sharks and stingrays.

Boat tours[edit]

Boat trip on a sunset

One way to see the beauty of Boracay and its various beaches is by Paraw (native outrigger sailboat), which sail along White Beach every afternoon just before sunset. You will be constantly asked if you want to take a boat trip, as there are literally dozens of companies offering this service.

There are a few entrenched and powerful brokers here who control much of tourist activities that do nothing more than rip the tourist off. Booking an activity through them can cost as much as 5 times what it would cost if you only had gone directly to the office of that tour/activity. These brokers have strong-armed their way into many hotels with 'commisioners' that book at the hotel or on the beach so you may not even know that you're dealing with their rep. The best thing to do is grab a trike and cruise around and visit the service providers directly. If you're on the beach and are interested in island hopping or parasailing, walk right up to the boat. Avoid the people with flyers and clipboards. Prices are usually negotiable except for scuba where competition is frowned on but you may find price fixing in other businesses as well because they don't like competition on the island.

Kiteboarding[edit]

Kites on Bulabog beach

Boracay's Bulabog beach is known as the best kitesurf destination in Asia. The season runs from November through to April with onshore winds varying between 12-30 knots. Small lagoon (2km wide) is protected from waves with coral reef. Water becomes almost flat on a low tide, making it easy to start learning kitesurfing and continue with freestyle tricks. Because of its nice conditions, spot becomes overcrowded with riders in high season.

Freestyle Academy Kitesurfing School, Bulabog Beach, ☎ +63 915 559 3080(info@freestyle-boracay.com), [3]. Kitesurfing School owned by local hero Ken Nacor, offers lessons from beginner to advanced. All instructors are IKO-certified. edit

GreenYard Kite School, Bulabog Beach, ☎ +63 917 3874402 (info@ilovekite.com),[4]. First kite school open on the island. Kite lesson for all levels. ok edit

Habagat, Bulabog Beach, ☎ +63 929 157 9871 (tonyboracay@hotmail.com), [5].School owned by a German who was one of the first kiteboarders to arrive in Boracay. School offers lessons from beginner to advanced. All instructors are IKO-certified. edit

Isla Kiteboarding school, Bulabog Beach, ☎ +63 36 288-5352(info@islakitesurfing.com), [6]. Offers courses from beginners to advanced level. All instructors are IKO-certified edit

Pinas Kite Boarding, Bulabog Beach, ☎ +63 918 257 4658, [7]. Locally owned kite-boarding shop, offers courses from level 1 to 3. All instructors are IKO-certified. edit

Gypsea Kite Kulture, Bulabog Beach, ☎ +63 917 326 8409(info@gypseakiteboracay.com), [8]. Locally owned kitesurfing school which offers kitesurfing lessons for beginners and advanced kiters, kite gear rentals and kite storage. edit

Skimboarding[edit]

Skimboarding in Boracay has been a new fun sport for kids and entertainment for older for people for several years. It is a welcome new attraction and a pleasure to watch. Skimboards are available for rent at several places along White Beach. But be sure to hire an expert to teach you to do the skills, 1-hour lesson from a local rider is usually around ₱300.

Massage/Spa[edit]

Budget[edit]

Along White Beach you will be approached frequently by women offering to give you a massage, which they will do on the spot or on a towel laid out on the beach - your choice.

A bit more organized, White Beach also has several "Massage Stations": collections of masseurs that have their mats set up. The stations are typically open as long as there are customers around but in general start to shut down just after sunset.

For Swedish, Accupressure, Shiatsu etc, visit Abe (pronounced Abby) the blind masseur who operates outside Cocoloco restaurant in Angol (south of boat station 3). Only P300 per hour.

There is a great outdoor massage station in the beach area of Nigi Nigi Beach Resort, where they have two tables set up. The booth is draped with curtains which they will close if you wish, or leave open if you want to watch the people on the beach. They offer every massage in the book, and charge 500 Peso for one hour.

Mid-range[edit]

Bella Isa Salon & Spa [9] is a little spot on the beach in Station 3 with upscale decor and professional staff. They provide a full range of services including massage, facials, foot spa, and hair services..

There are several smaller/mid-range spas in Boracay that offer a menu including massages, scrubs and facials but don't quite have the facilities to be considered a full spa. Most hotels in Boracay offer a limited spa menu that falls into this category.

Splurge[edit]

Ceasar's, found along the main road near boat station 3, specializes in Filipino and Thai massage and uses two masseurs simultaneously to deliver the service. A 90 minute massage is priced at US$50.

Tirta SPA [10]— found in Sitio Malabunot, Manoc-Manoc, area. Indian treatments in a stunning environment. Friendly and helpful staff. It is a good idea to compare prices between Tirta Spa, Mandala Spa, and Shangri-La Boracay to find the best deal.

Other[edit]

Bakhawan Mangrove Forest (or Bakhawan Eco-Park), ☎ +63 36 262-7696, [11]. Located on the mainland of Aklan province, the Bakhawan Mangrove Forest is a popular sidetrip for Boracay travellers. Hailed as one of the most successful mangrove reforestation projects in all of Southeast Asia, the Bakhawan Mangrove Forest is just 10 minutes away from Kalibo Airport, the international gateway to Boracay Island. This 200 hectare nature park features over 20 species of mangrove trees, 28 species of birds, and a wide variety of marine life such as mudskippers and fiddler crabs. While the forest's main attraction is its 1.1km nature trail, guests can also experience the park by paddling a kayak, riding a bamboo raft, or enjoying a locally-harvested meal. General admission is ₱100. Tickets can be purchased at the main entrance, and additional activities are available for a fee. Most Boracay tourists visit Bakhawan upon arriving at or prior to departing from Kalibo Airport. edit

Boracay PubCrawl, Station 1 inside Tibraz Bar, ☎ +63 917 808 8433, [12]. A bar hopping activity that aims to create friendship among its participants. Registration fee is ₱990 per person which includes a shirt, a baller, a shot glass, free entrance to 3 bars and 2 clubs, 10 free shots and fun get-to-know games. Boracay PubCrawl is ranked number 1 out of 48 activities in TripAdvisor and is awarded with a 2014 Certificate of Excellence. edit

Cliff Diving at Ariel's Point, [13]. A fun and affordable day-trip destination for Boracay visitors who enjoy new eco-adventures and meeting fellow travellers. Located 30 minutes away from Station 1 by outrigger boat, Ariel's Point offers a wide variety of adventurous activities such as cliff diving (five different platforms ranging in height from 3-15m), snorkeling, and kayaking in an unspoiled tropical paradise near volcanic caves, mangrove forests, turquoise pools, and remote beaches. Trips depart daily at 11:30. Purchase tickets at Ariel's House (along White Beach in front of the Boracay Beach Club) before 10:30 on the day of departure. Trips frequently sell out, so it is better to buy your ticket at least one day in advance. Avoid purchasing tickets from vendors along the beach. ₱2000 (Nov 2014) includes a round-trip booze cruise, BBQ buffet, unlimited drinks (bottled water, beer, soda, rum), cliff diving, snorkeling, and kayaking. edit

Parasailing: Take a parasailing tour around the island, to explore quiet beaches and snorkel sites. Ask your crew to organize a romantic BBQ on the beach with fresh grilled seafood, if you like. Cruise back at sunset to experience breathtaking views.

Motorbiking: It's worth hiring motorbikes or scooters to explore the island, as there are other beautiful beaches on the other side of the island that are even better for snorkeling that are not as crowded as White Beach. Hire them for a couple of days and you should get a discount. The roads are a bit dodgy, and some are still being constructed, so use caution.

Horseriding is a fun activity in Boracay. Get off the beaten path and experience villages and scenery most other visitors don't get to see. All levels of experience are catered to. Ask a tricycle to take you to the Boracay Horse Riding Stables.

Buy[edit]

D*Mall off of White Beach

Along White Beach, there is a wide variety of gift shops and boutiques along the beach path and in D*Mall, (mostly concentrated, including D*Mall* at Station 2). In addition to the crowded stalls that you expect in Asia, Boracay also has several high-end stores including clothing, art and household items. Some places will permit you to haggle, others have a fixed pricing system with price tags. Shop around as prices vary. Outside of White Beach, the shopping becomes sparse or non-existent. An alternative to D'Mall is D'talipapa at station 3, between the main road and White Beach, which features a number of shops, vegetable merchants and a large meat market also selling a large selection of live seafood. Prices at D'talipapa (including those for basic necessities such as milk, vegetables and meat) are about 25% below those of D'Mall, which seems like a ripoff in comparison.

While walking or laying on the sand, anywhere on Boracay, you'll be approached to buy a variety of items including jewelry made of shells, fresh fruit, ice cream, sunglasses or a nice massage.

Shell jewelry — similar to what you can find elsewhere in the world, the jewelry made of shells is popular as for the most part it is made locally from shells found on Puka Beach.

Paulo Collection BodyWear, D'Mall,Bamboo Beach Resort,PC Main -Fish eye diving shop,Island Magic near cocomangas beach Resort, ☎ +63 36 288-3448, [14]. Variety of beach wear and other souvenir items. edit

ATMs[edit]

There are about 8 ATMs on the entire island for the 16,000 inhabitants plus tourists, and when they run out of cash, they are not refilled until the next business day. On weekends and holidays it is even worse, as the ATM's might go several days without being refilled. On paydays, one will also see very long lines at the ATMs, and be aware that not every ATM accepts every card. One might only accept cards with the Visa logo, and not the MasterCard logo, so before standing in line for two hours, be sure it accepts your card. Also, be prepared for a very long wait in line, as many Boracay natives seem to do all their banking at the ATM, spending what seems like an unusual amount of time at it. Maximum withdrawal at any one time is ₱10,000 (₱20,000 at BPI ATM) the maximum per day at an ATM is ₱20,000.

The best solution is to bring travelers checks or withdraw cash prior to arriving in Boracay. Also, many establishments, including the tricycles, cannot break a bill (or refuse to) over ₱500 (around $12), so it pays to always have small bills.

Foreign money (US dollars, Euros, Korean Won, Japanese Yen, etc.) can be exchanged at several locations around the island. It's worth checking around for the best exchange rate, as all places don't offer the same rate. You're best off heading away from the beach for better rates.

Eat[edit]

Because of its wide draw of international travelers, Boracay has a wide variety of places to eat, including a surprising number of bakeries. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy one of the best mangoes in the world. The climate in the Philippines is perfect for growing mangoes, so you always get them mellow and sweet.

A1 Boracay, [15] serving only the best imported Italian arabica coffee beans.

Andok's, [16]. Andok's, which has 5 locations, sells rotisserie and fried chicken as well as favorite Filipino dishes.

A Loja Delicatessen was for many years the only deli on the island. A Loja Deli, working with Heidiland Deli, caters today more to the wholesale market, but offers also a nice quiet place to eat sausages and sandwiches and drink wine in a quiet garden, away from the crowded beachfront area. Wholesale prices also apply to visitors who buy in bulk.

Aria in "D' Mall". Delicious Italian food. If they don't give you the spicy olive oil bottle on the side for your custom made pizza, make sure you ask for it.

Arwana Coffee Shop (near Station 3) is one of the nicest spots in the area for a tasty breakfast at a beachside table.

Bamboo Lounge, near Station 1, serves a good selection of Chinese food in a relaxed beachfront setting.

Bistro Valhalla [17] in the mall is a newly refurbished steakhouse with a varied and interesting menu.

Blue Jade Cafe is in D'Talipapa and offers Asian and European cuisine. Customers can also shop in the market for fresh sea food and have it cooked for them at the restaurant.

Blue Mango, near Station 3, has a good reputation and serves unique mango-inspired creations on the menu, among other things.

Chez De Paris Resort, on the White Beach balabag (beside Le Soleil and The Mandarin), ☎ (036)288-3233. one of the first European restaurants on the island, the first in fact to have chocolate mousse and Italian pizza when the island was without electricity in the early 80's. Owned by the infamous and eccentric Frenchman Roger Deparis who has lived on the island since his backpacking days. It is a throwback to the old island style of mismatched decorations and heavy foliage. A little bit of island history resides in this sleepy getaway nestled between two large hotel edit

Cocoloco bar/restaurant near Station 3 serves great Filipino and international cuisine in an attractive native-style setting.

Cowboy Cocina near Station 3 serves affordable and tasty steaks, ribs and other grilled dishes, and arguably the best burgers in Boracay.

Crafty's Rooftop Bar and Coffee Shop is on the top level of Crafts Department Store at D' Mall's main road entrance. There is an excellent menu of Indian food as well as international dishes, and a wide selection of imported beers and ales. This is a great place to watch the sunset.

Cyma, in the new part of the mall. Excellent food and service at this Greek restaurant. Try the mezedes combination, spinach and artichoke fondue and chicken souvlaki.

D'Talipapa The cheapest - and for many people, the best - place to eat. Around the place are a variety of food stores that offer to cook for you. You could just buy fresh seafood, etc., right near the stores, then have the stores cook it for you with whichever way you like. (Imagine you can get crabs for 250 Pesos for 1 kilo opposed to buying in restaurants that charge 130 pesos per 100 grams).

Deja Vu, Station 2. 10AM - 2AM. Deja Vu serves fresh seafood, pizzas and burgers. Contemporary decor and big comfy lounge furniture. edit

Dos Mestizos This restaurant is the brainchild of respected Boracay chef-restaurateur Binggoy Remedios and his close childhood friend, Jose Ramon Valdes Nieto. Both owners have Spanish ancestors, hence the name "Dos Mestizos." Enjoy excellent tapas at this place, which is located between Stations 2 and 3 behind the Tourist Center. Live music is available on select nights.

Fridays Boracay tel: +63 36 288-6200 fax: +63 36 288-6222 [18] - all day dining, themed dinner, Friday night buffet, seafood grill, plus 3 cultural dance shows every week with fire dance.

Heidiland Deli [19] - Next to the main plaza at the D'Mall Phase IV is a fully air-conditioned European style deli selling all kinds of deli food as cheeses, cold cuts, salami, yoghurt, wines, etc. Locally famous for reasonably priced sandwiches.

The Hobbit House, [20] - (Also located in D'Mall) With great food, drinks and live music, this place is the best of the Hobbit House chain. The staff here are all people with dwarfism. Though such people are employed at this bar, visitors should consider the ethics of visiting a place that seems to exploit the staff's height.

Jammers, on the front beach of D'Mall. Up and running for more than 8 years, amazing burgers, hotdogs, fruit shakes, etc. Open 24/7

Jonas Fruitshake in Station 1. Their fruit shakes are to die for!

Kasbah Authentic Moroccan cuisine serving exquisite tagines and couscous. Next to Discovery Shores, Station 1.

Kurt's restaurant and bar near Station 3 has a wide selection of good German and Filipino dishes in front of the beach.

Lemon Cafe, in D' Mall. This place serves a variety of breakfasts, lunches and light meals. The service and presentation are excellent.

Lovells Swiss Bakery, Balabag (next to Pantelco and infront of the balabag main hospital). Boracay's first European bakery and pastry shop, founded and run by a Swiss guy since the early 1980s. edit

Manana, near Station 1, serves large portions of tasty Mexican food. Guacamole is only available when avocados are in-season despite what the menu says.

Munchies, Bulabog Road 1A (2 minute walk from D*Mall). Cheap, but extremely tasty local and Mexican food. Their sizzling fajitas are not to be missed.

Obama Grill Bar-Restaurant (Station 1), Beachfront & Main Road Frontage (across from Andok's Station 1 and Shore Time Hotel). Steak restaurant, opened April 2009. Some say it's expensive and the portions are small. edit

Ole (located in D'Mall) is a great place to go for Spanish tapas and other specialties. Beware - the main courses are enormous!

Real Coffee & Tea Cafe, now in a new location between Stations 1 and 2, serves a variety of pancakes, sandwiches, omelettes, baked goods and salads as well as freshly brewed coffee. The mother-and-daughter owners also get repeat customers who've been going there for years.

Rumbas, in D'Mall serves good steaks, pies and other British-style dishes. Enjoy curry, fish and chips and sausage sandwiches while watching live sports on big screens.

Shantal's Resto Bar, in Station 3 at the pathway toward Dave's Straw Hat Inn, Morenos and Escurel. Revered, family-owned cantina on the beach with great value homemade food. The menu offers a bit of everything and the friendly staff will make you feel right at home.

Smoke , located down one of the alleys opposite Lemon cafe in D'Mall is a very good budget eatery. Local dishes, meat and seafood dishes, omelets and excellent sandwiches are on offer. Most meals cost around 70 pesos and are all cooked fresh. If you are around between 11AM and 2PM you get a free drink of iced lemon tea with every rice meal.

Tilapia 'N Chips, G/F Kamayan Bldg. Station 2, Boracay (Beside Crafts), ☎ +63 36 288 2283, [21]. 12pm-10pm. Visit this place for good beer battered fish and chips. They also serve Asian and Western style fish dishes, burgers, sandwiches and soup at this modern, airconditioned restaurant. Take out also available. edit

True Food, in Station 2, offers fiery Indian cuisine that will awaken the tastebuds. The place is cozy with straw mats and over-sized cushions. The staff is polite and very accommodating. For those who enjoy the spicier side of life, try the tandoori chicken.

Wind riders, on Bulabog beach, offers tasty food before and after you kiteboarding sessions. Everything is delicious and made with passion. Try "Rider's fish favorite", Tuna pasta, Cheeseburger and mango shake.

Titos Resto & Grill, Station 2, Boracay, ☎ (036)663-0079. 10am to 2am. Serves modern Filipino food that combines the casual comfort of a home-cooked meal with the relaxed sophistication edit

Shenna's, Station 2 ish, south of d'mall. Filipino breakfast for only 150. Also offer for 75 without the meal so if you're feeling hungry it's a good deal. May also have rooms for booking. edit
Zest Boracay Restaurant, Bar & Billiards, Station 3, Manoc Manoc (Opposite EMall), ☎ 09185412040. 8am - 10pm. Tasty and great value western and continental snacks and meals. Famous for delicious burgers and a wide range of fresh fruit shakes. Homemade pizzas and yogurt deserts. As listed in the Lonely Planet. 100 to 250. edit

Drink[edit]

If you like to party, there are plenty of places to choose from. The livelier bars are situated near boat stations 1 and 2. There are plenty of places to party all night! Boat station 3 has a more laid back and relaxed atmosphere, with small native bars and restaurants - popular with backpackers.

Expect to check your handgun with the security guard!

Sunset during Happy Hour on White Beach

Bom Bom Bar (near D 'Mall) is a native-style beach bar that often has live music. It's a popular hang out for artists and musicians.

Charhls Bar, Station 2 (Right in the middle of the beach). This bar is a long-time favorite on Boracay with live bands that play covers. Customers are invited to sing with the bands. A great shame for locals and tourists alike as it got wiped out in Yolanda and will not be rebuilt in current location. Think they have opened up again between boat stations 2 and 3 but not right on the beach. edit

Cocoloco, near boat station 3, is an attractive beach bar/restaurant that also serves tasty food. You can enjoy your drink by the beach, under the coconut trees, and there's a pool table in the bar too.

Cocomangas, near station 1, is famous for it's "Still standing after 15" challenge. Drink 15 ferocious shots and win a t-shirt and a plaque on the wall. This bar is popular with the younger crowd but a few "working girls" are around for lonely men. Try the Jam Jar, a pineapple and vodka cocktail.

Crafty's rooftop bar has probably the most extensive selection of imported beers and ales on the island. Head to the top floor of Crafts Superstore.

Cream Cafe, right on White Beach, between La Reserve & Crystal Sand in Station 1. It's a great place for good old fashioned milkshakes and Arce Dairy Carabao (Water Buffalo) Ice Cream. edit

Deja Vu, Station 2. Contemporary design and big comfy lounge furniture. Deja Vu's disco starts around 10PM or so; however, the drinks start flowing in the afternoon during lunch and dinner. Deja Vu has at least 10+ drinks on their menu that you can only find there. edit

Juice located right between Boracay Regency and Boat Station 2 offers top notch cocktails and a variety of "sneaky smoothies". with a wide open courtyard opening up to the beach it tends to fill up by around 11PM but still very comfortable. The crowd is a nice mix of locals and foreigners. Great staff and charming bartenders.

Kurts Bar, near station 3, is run by friendly Bavarian Kurt and his wife Mags. It's a very popular spot to meet and chat, and one of the few places on the island serving draft beer.

Nigi Nigi's, between boat stations 2 and 3, three minutes walk north of the tourist center, is a popular centrally located spot to have a cool drink and enjoy a little people watching. The manager is an expat.

Red Pirates Pub, is a native style beach bar (Angol, near boat station 3) with a relaxed and friendly atmosphere and good selection of fruity cocktails as well as affordable ice cold beer. It's a good place to meet other travelers and chat, and on weekends, selected weekdays and full moon nights there is live music and an all-you-can-eat beach BBQ and buffet (Fridays).

Rumbas, in "D' Mall Plaza", is an English-style pub that attracts a friendly crowd. The menu is pretty good too, especially the sirloin steaks. Big TV screens show sports.

Shantal's Resto Bar, in Station 3 at the pathway to Dave's Straw Hat Inn, Morenos, and Escurel. Has a popular Happy Hour from 2PM to 8PM, offers one of the best beachside and sunset views on the island, and bumps a non-stop soundtrack of the best in electronic, hip-hop, R&B/soul, and reggae music.

Station 3 Sports Bar, located along the station 3 road has decent tapas and English food (at affordable prices), three good pool tables, dartboard, and plenty of large flat screen TVs to catch the sporting events of the moment.
Pat's Creek. Right on the beach close to D-mall. Live reggae music and nice tables on the beach. edit
Exit Bar. Also in station 2 close to D-mall. 50 pesos drinks and beer. edit

Sleep[edit]

Accommodation standards vary, with top of the line hotels and resorts to a simple bed rented from a resident. As such, whatever your budget, you could easily find a suitable place to stay. During peak periods such as Holy Week, Christmas and New Year, rooms are more difficult to find and more expensive, so book in advance.

Staying along White Beach gets you closer to the bars, lounging and food, while staying closer to Bulabog beach gives you better access to the popular wind and kite-boarding areas.

A word of warning: Boracay is notorious for travel agents (many in Manila) passing themselves off as the resorts, often through websites. When you call them to get a room rate or make a reservation, you will be quoted much more than if you called the resort itself. The travel agents simply take your request, call the hotel and make reservations and charge you extra for the service, up to double the original rate. Meanwhile, the traveler has no idea he wasn't talking to the resort. This can often lead to frustration, as the traveler will show up at his hotel or resort and see he was charged double the rate that the hotel is listing, even though the hotel had nothing to do with it! So the advice is, try your best to ignore the many travel agencies and make your reservation with the resort or hotel directly.

Better yet, don't make advance reservations in the low season. Just go to White Beach or the region you want to stay and negotiate deals with the places you want to stay at. Many street touts will offer to show you the rooms first and then you can negotiate

White Beach[edit]

Boracay Sunset

If you prefer peace and quiet, avoid accommodation at the centre of White Beach, as this is the most crowded area. Head further north or south instead. The area south of boat station 3 has a more relaxed and peaceful vibe - no pounding disco till 4AM. Accommodation is more reasonably priced, and there are some friendly little bars and restaurants where you can meet people and chat. North of station 1 you'll find many of the more luxurious (and expensive) establishments. The beach is at it's widest here, and the area is usually relatively peaceful.