Visiting Boracay
Boracay is an island in the Visayas archipelago in the central Philippines, located about 300 kilometres from the capital, Manila. This small island, measuring 6 kilometres long by one to two wide, is known for its white-sand beaches and lively nightlife. In recent years, it has welcomed up to 2 million tourists annually. Victim of its own success, it recorded over 33,000 residents in 2018 compared to barely 12,000 in 2000. In 2018, the Philippine president at the time, Rodrigo Duterte, decided to close all access to the island for a duration of six months for environmental reasons, initiating a rehabilitation period for Boracay.
A tropical island in the heart of the Philippines
Boracay brings together numerous features that earn it its reputation as an island paradise: turquoise waters, exceptional marine life, sunshine and warm sand, a tropical vibe, along with upscale hotels, restaurants, and bars. It is a recognized destination for partying, lounging on the beach, or trying out scuba diving. Numerous activities are available on site including paddleboarding, surfing, parasailing, and jet-skiing, alongside the island's traditional market with its fresh seafood, D'Talipapa.
The two best-known beaches on Boracay are White Beach, a 4-kilometre-long stretch ranked among the top ten beaches in Asia, and Bulabog Beach, located on the opposite side where weather conditions are more favorable for water sports. White Beach is divided into several sections called stations that reference the former boat landings and help visitors get their bearings on the island. Other quieter beaches are also accessible, particularly in the northern part of the island, a sector that is less urbanized. You can also take great walks through the surrounding nature.
The rehabilitation of Boracay Island
During the few months of isolation ordered by the president of the Philippines, the island was cleaned up and new behavioral rules were enacted, such as a ban on drinking or smoking on the beaches. Quotas were put in place so the island can now accommodate a maximum of only 19,200 tourists at any one time. Hotels that fail to meet certain environmental standards are closed and the island roads have been renovated to improve traffic flow. To prevent the development of illegal activities along the shoreline, a special 30-metre-wide zone from the water's edge was established where all types of installations are prohibited.
When to go?
The best way to enjoy the beach activities Boracay offers is to visit during the dry season between December and March. Avoid the months between June and October, which see more rainfall. Make sure to book your trip well in advance due to the visitor quotas established to regulate island tourism.
How to get there?
Boracay is accessible by ferry boat from Caticlan on the neighbouring island of Panay, where the airport is located just across the strait. It is also possible to get there from Kalibo International Airport.
If you love white sand, turquoise water, and partying, then Boracay is for you.
Lots of atmosphere in the evening, fire dancing on the beach, and bars and restaurants as far as the eye can see along White Beach.
But there is also the option to find some peace and quiet by heading to the north side of the island.