Known for sparkling white beaches, luxury resorts and spectacular reef diving, the tiny island of Boracay is the go-to holiday destination of the Philippines. It’s all about water, waves, parties and sunshine when you reach the shores of this island paradise.

Things to do

White Beach on the west coast is by far the most famous strip of sand on Boracay, dotted with swaying palms, beach bars, cafes and dive shops. Offshore, the sailboats, parasails and inflatable “fly fish rides” paint the horizon with a blaze of colour. Take a stroll along the White Beach Path at sunset, and stop for seafood beach barbecues, live music and fire-dance shows.

More than a dozen beaches on Boracay cater to water activities such as kiteboarding at Bulabog Beach and snorkelling at Ilig-iligan Beach. Visitors can head to Puka Shell Beach to find craftspeople selling puka necklaces and accessories, or visit Tambisaan for its vibrantly coloured coral gardens. To see the ocean and islands from a broader perspective, climb giant-sized steps leading to the Mt Luho View Deck for panoramic views of the area.

Nightlife is one of the biggest draws in Boracay, with its variety of neon dance clubs, themed party bars and beachfront tiki pubs in the Station 2 area. Open-air beach bars serve the local favourite wengweng cocktail, as well as fresh mango, coconut and fruit-blend concoctions. For an authentic dining experience, graze the local street-food stalls for BBQ sticks and chorizo burgers, or pick up fresh seafood at D’Talipapa Market and have a professional chef cook it for you.

Getting around

Many hotels in Boracay offer transportation around the island by car, but the most common way of getting around is by tricycle, a motorised bike with a sidecar. Tricycles operate along main roads and from the White Beach Path, while pedicabs and e-trikes service the beach areas.