Boracay is a small island in Aklan Province, Philippines — ranked by Condé Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure among the best islands in the world. The sand here runs powdery white and the sea runs deep blue. The island covers every end of the spectrum: slow beach days on one side, serious water-sport adrenaline on the other, with photogenic corners in between.
#1 White Beach
White Beach is the heart of Boracay — nearly 4 kilometres of powder-fine sand divided into three zones. Station 1 is the quieter, upscale end with the top-tier resorts. Station 2 is the busy middle strip with restaurants and D'Mall. Station 3 is the laid-back, budget-friendly section. The sunset here ranks among the most photographed in the Philippines.
- Arrive before 8 a.m. — the beach is dramatically quieter in the early morning
- Smoking and drinking alcohol on the beach are strictly prohibited with fines enforced
- Station 1 has the finest sand and clearest water of the three zones
#2 Willy's Rock
A black volcanic rock rising out of the shallow water at Station 1, topped with a statue of Our Lady of Lourdes — Boracay's most-photographed landmark. Concrete steps lead up to the top, and both local fishers and travelers regularly visit to pay their respects.
- At low tide in the morning you can walk out to the rock without wading
- The best angle for photos is from the west side at sunset
- Dress modestly when climbing to the top — it is a place of worship
#3 Puka Shell Beach
A quiet little beach at the northern end of the island, named after the puka shells scattered across its sand. About 800 metres long, the sand here is slightly coarser than White Beach because of the shell fragments mixed in. The atmosphere is calm and tree-lined — a good retreat for anyone who wants a break from the main strip.
- Afternoon light is softer and better for photos
- Sun loungers and a handful of food stalls are available along the beach
- Puka shells sold as souvenirs are also available at D'Mall market
#4 Diniwid Beach
A small cove tucked just a few minutes past the northern end of Station 1. The water is clear and calm, good for swimming and snorkeling. The atmosphere is romantic and noticeably quieter than White Beach — a stretch of boutique resorts and solid beachfront restaurants lines the sand. Often called the quieter alternative to the main beach.
- Walk from Station 1 in just 5–10 minutes
- Snorkeling at low tide gives a good look at the coral
- Beachfront resorts here fill up fast — book well in advance
#5 Mount Luho
The highest point on Boracay at around 100 metres (330 feet), with a 360-degree viewpoint taking in White Beach, Bulabog Beach, and the surrounding island landscape. A small zoo and basic facilities are on site. Good option for travelers who want to see the whole island from above rather than from the sand.
- Entrance fee is around 120 pesos per person, open daily
- Mornings have less haze — visibility is sharper before the heat builds
- ATV rentals are available if you prefer to ride up rather than walk
#6 Island Hopping
The most popular boat tour around Boracay hits two main stops: Crocodile Island for shallow snorkeling over coral at around 2 metres depth, and Crystal Cove — a small island with limestone caves and a natural pool. Group tours run 1,000–2,000 pesos including lunch and depart daily year-round.
- Group tours cost less; private boat hire suits groups of 6 or more
- Pack sunscreen — you'll be exposed to direct sun all day
- During Habagat season (June–October) swells pick up and some tours are cancelled
#7 Parasailing
One of the most popular water activities at White Beach — a large parachute pulls you tens of metres above the water for sweeping views over the beach and surrounding islands. Each ride runs about 15 minutes and costs approximately 2,500–3,500 pesos per person. A good fit for anyone who wants a rush without a long learning curve.
- Give your actual weight — each rig has a maximum load limit
- The best photos are taken from the boat as you come in to land on the water
- Strong Amihan winds make for a higher, more exciting ride
#8 D'Mall
The shopping and entertainment hub of Boracay — an outdoor market-style mall with souvenir shops, clothing stalls, restaurants of every type, a tropical-fruit stand, and easy walking distance to D'Talipapa seafood market, where you can buy fresh catch and have it grilled to order on the spot.
- Prices at souvenir stalls are negotiable
- D'Talipapa is about a 10-minute walk away — easy on foot
- The fruit stalls here sell fresh mango and coconut at good prices
Where to stay in Boracay for this trip
A well-located hotel means less commuting and more sightseeing. Here are real, top-rated stays in Boracay — compare Agoda · Booking · Trip.com in one click.
Astoria Current
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Shangri-La Boracay
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Discovery Boracay
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The Lind Boracay
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Tours, tickets & activities in Boracay
Day tours, attraction tickets and travel essentials for Boracay — book ahead on Klook with mobile e-tickets.
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Before You Pack
Whether you're here to rest on the beach, snorkel over coral, or catch a sunset from a boat, Boracay covers every style of traveler. Plan around the Amihan season (November–May) for the clearest skies and calmest seas.