Boracay is truly Philippines’ paradise, and it is the best beach in Asia that we have ever stepped foot on – yet. Every morning, we woke up to awe-inspiring views of the White Beach; palm trees swayed and seemingly orchestrated a symphony, azure waters still and calm, sands as white as cotton fluffs, heaven and earth merged. Nothing lingers in the mind more than this picturesque sight, and we could use hours just daydreaming and frolicking by the beach.
Here are 10 reasons why you should visit Boracay at least once in your life.
1. GORGEOUS BEACH WITH PRISTINE WHITE SAND AND AZURE BLUE WATER
You have probably seen photos of Boracay on magazines, postcards, travel websites, Facebook, and Instagram before, but trust us – seeing it in real life will make you cancel your return ticket and not leave the beautiful island. The sand is so pristinely white and the clear water has an amazing gradient of blues.
We have been to many beautiful beaches in Asia, but nothing comes close to Boracay. It is in a different league from the rest.
2. DIVE OFF A CLIFF
Cliff diving at Ariel’s Point is another popular activity in Boracay. There are different levels that are suitable for everyone – beginners can take the easiest jump and experience cliff diving for the first time, while dare devils who embrace thrill can challenge themselves by jumping from the highest spot. A day trip includes the boat ride, snorkelling, cliff diving, and BBQ buffet lunch.
3. ISLAND-HOPPING ADVENTURE
A visit to Boracay is not complete without going for an island-hopping tour. The island tour itinerary typically includes snorkelling for an hour at Crocodile Island – not to worry, the island is not infested with crocodile, it is named so because it resembles the shape of a crocodile – and heading over to other island(s) (depending on the arrangement with the tour operator), before going to Puka Beach – located at the Northern tip of Boracay – for lunch at what seemed like your private paradise.
4. LECHON, THE MUST-EAT LOCAL DELICACY
Lechon, or suckling pig, is the must-eat local delicacy in Philippines. Similar to the Balinese Babi Guling and the Chinese suckling pig, lechon is prized for its crispy skin and flavourful meat. While Boracay may not be the best place to eat lechon – Cebu is known to have the best lechon in Philippines – it is definitely still worth a try, especially if it is your first time to Philippines.
5. THE FRIENDLY AND HOSPITABLE LOCALS
Filipinos are some of the friendliest and most hospitable people in the world, and having been to Manila, Cebu and now Boracay, I have to say that the locals on this island are exceptionally friendly.
6. CALAMANSI MUFFINS FROM REAL COFFEE
I am not a fan of muffins – for the record, I prefer cupcakes – but the legendary calamansi muffin from Real Coffee stole my breath away. It is moist and sweet and tastes more like a cupcake than muffin. This alone is reason enough for me to leave on a jet plane for Boracay.
7. BEST FRUIT SHAKE ON THE ISLAND
Another thing that you must try in Boracay is the fruit shake from Jonah’s Fruit Shake. They say this is the best fruit shake on the island, and we cannot agree more. What better way to brave the hot afternoon sun than with a smooth mango shake?
8. THE FRESHEST SEAFOOD AT D’ TALIPAPA
D’ Talipapa is a famous wet market in Boracay where you buy fresh/live seafood from the stall vendors, and proceed to the restaurants – located just beside the market – and have the seafood prepared in your preferred styles. Blend into the local culture and dine by the roadside. Don’t forget the fresh coconut water, too!
9. CATCH THE MOST AMAZING SUNSET FROM A SAILBOAT
With a gorgeous sandy beach surrounded by turquoise blue water, you know that the sunset here will be more than spectacular. But Boracay brings it to a different level with its sunset sailing on a Paraw sailboat.
10. SUPPORT LOCAL BEAD CRAFTS
Philippines may not be a fashion capital, but if you look beyond this, you would find beauty in the local bead crafts. They can be found along the beaches, usually in the form of bracelets and necklaces, and the palette of colours are so pretty to look at.
While it is said that such local merchandises are becoming touristy and mass produced, we have no doubt that it is still one worth supporting, simply because the accessories are as lovely as the locals.
GETTING TO BORACAY FROM SINGAPORE
Getting to Boracay is quite a tedious journey, but it is made easy by Tigerair, where we get to fly in to the nearest Kalibo airport before changing to land and sea transfers. While it was physically taxing, the reward is the very gorgeous Boracay that we deem the best beach in Asia yet.
Tigerair is offering “all-in round trip fares from S$79″. Traveling to Boracay need not be bank-breaking expensive, and with this promotion, it can be a dream come true! Booking date closes on the 13th this month, but the travel period is valid till August/ September (depending on your destination). Check the list of prices here – they are inclusive of taxes, but do remember to add a S$9 booking fee.
What a gorgeous looking place. Thank you for the post. I hope to visit there one day and perhaps dive off a cliff when I’m feeling brave enough
When is the best time to visit?
Boracay is truly the best beach in asia. Summer is the best time to go to boracay. From months of march to may. You will also enjoy watching the fire dancers on the beach at night!
Maldives is THE paradise. You have to visit!
Nice article and photos! Very informative. You must also try Coron, Palawan, Philippines. Visit Malacapuya Island.
How many spending to visit here? Is that place great?
Hi LadyIronChef, first of all, I’m a fan! Anyway, are you still in Boracay? If you are still in the island, send me an email. I do have a few more suggestions, like Yellow Cab (NY-style pizza).
I was there a few years back. THE ISLAND IS STUNNING, absolutely fabuloussss!!!
The beaches are one of a kind, sunsets are amazingly beautiful and the seafood is deliciousssssss, I will definately return, some day….
Great Job Ladyironchef! You took amazing pictures and relevant information making this a must read! Hope you could visit the island of Boracay again! Soon, perhaps?
Hi Swee Hok! Boracay Island is such a picturesque place to visit and all year round one can marvel at its amazing sceneries. But if you are looking for some thrill and action and is also a water-activity enthuiast, then June to September is the right season for you, as this is the Habagat period when it is a little breezy. This is the perfect time to enjoy Kiteboarding, Paraw Sailing etc. If you are looking for a normal beach time and don’t want to worry about the humid breeze of the tropics, then travel between Oct-Feb when it is much cooler in the island, while the water remain still, perfect for Stand-up Paddleboard Kayak. For those who are into party scene, then visit Boracay from March to May. Almost the whole island is packed with parties and events that will surely unleash the party animal in you. The month of December is also jam packed with lots of events!
It is safe to say that Boracay is indeed a 24/7 Island!
stunning photos of Boracay.. i love that island, i do hate it too.. ^_^
Hi ladyironchef and mel! I recommend coron and el nido next time. If you have more time, calaguas is beautiful as well. Bantayan island in cebu is amazing! Be sure to stop by cebu city for the best lechon! love this post! I hope the next time i go to boracay, it’s not too crowded. Will try out some of your suggestions
Which hotels would you recommend in Boracay?
Which hotel is nice would you recommend in Boracay (Station 2)?
Hi Ladyironchef,
Appreciate if you could kindly recommend me a local tour agent and private driver as we are traveling in a group.
Which hotel do you recommend for a family of 2 adults +2kids?
What is the estimated budget per pax. Includes the activies on the island and dining for your trip?
That will helps alot for our budgeting.
Thank you.
Thanks for the write up and those beautiful pictures! heading there in less than a week and i hope to make the best of it.
whats wrong with me, with all this great pictures and i live just in Cebu i still was not able to visit boracay .. i must be out of my mind…
this guide is really detailed.. and with the fairys wheel pic it could be more exciting..
Hello,
Thank you for sharing the article. I am sure you have answered them before. What hotels would you recommend and an approx figure per pax for 4 night stay? or you could recommend a local tour agency.
Thank you,
Sarwari
Great article and glad you enjoyed Boracay so much! I agree, White Beach is really something special, I love the way it’s layed out, with a beach path separated from the relaxation part of the beach.
I couldnt agree mire with this post. I work with manu filipino nationals in a cruise ship amd they atr always urging me to visit. Well, i was in Manila and wanted to do something over thr CHRISTMAS period and here i am sat on the very same beach under a palm tree with hundtrds of different nationality people all enjoying this spectacular place lige doesn’t get much better than this….