Visiting Boracay
Boracay is an island in the Visayas archipelago in the central Philippines, located about 185 miles from the capital, Manila. This small island, measuring about 4 miles long and roughly a mile wide at its narrowest, is known for its white sand beaches and high-energy nightlife. In recent years, it has drawn up to 2 million tourists annually. Falling victim to its own popularity, the resident population surged to over 33,000 by 2018, up from barely 12,000 in 2000. In 2018, Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte ordered a six-month closure of the island for environmental rehabilitation.
A tropical escape in the heart of the Philippines
Boracay checks all the boxes for a classic tropical getaway: turquoise waters, coral reefs, warm sand, and a range of upscale hotels, restaurants, and bars. It is a destination for partying, lounging, or scuba diving. You will find plenty of activities on the water, including paddleboarding, surfing, parasailing, and jet-skiing, alongside the traditional D'Talipapa market for fresh seafood.
The island's two most famous stretches are White Beach, a 2.5-mile strip often ranked among the top ten beaches in Asia, and Bulabog Beach, located on the opposite side, where wind conditions are better suited for water sports. White Beach is divided into sections known as "stations," which refer to old boat landings and help with navigation. Other, quieter beaches are accessible, particularly in the less developed northern part of the island. There are also trails for hiking through the local landscape.
The rehabilitation of Boracay
During the closure ordered by the president of the Philippines, the island underwent a cleanup and implemented new regulations, such as bans on drinking and smoking on the beaches. Quotas were established, limiting the island to a maximum of 19,200 tourists at any given time. Hotels failing to meet environmental standards were shuttered, and local roads were renovated to improve traffic flow. To prevent illegal development, a 30-meter buffer zone from the shoreline was established where all permanent structures are prohibited.
When to go
The best time to enjoy Boracay's beach culture is during the dry season, from December through March. Avoid the months between June and October, which see significantly more rainfall. Be sure to book your trip well in advance, as the visitor quotas mean space can fill up quickly.
How to get there
Boracay is accessible by ferry from Caticlan on the neighboring island of Panay, where the local airport is located just across the strait. You can also travel via the international airport in Kalibo.
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.