Located at the northwestern tip of Panay, this small island has meanwhile become the number one tourist destination of the Philippines. It has also been voted in 1990 as one of the best beaches in the world by the BMW Tropical Beach Handbook. The British Publication TV Quick in its issue of December 21, 1996 gave the latest accolade for Boracay as the number one tropical beach in the world.
The island roughly shaped like a dumb-bell, is 7 kilometers long and the narrowest spot is nearly 1 kilometer wide.
The best part of the island is its 4 km. "White Beach", also called long beach by the locals. It is situated at the West Coast between the villages of Angol and Balabag, and some experienced travelers claim it to be the finest beach of all Asia. The water is shallow here, and its sand brighter and finer than most beaches in the archipelago. There are about 350 beach resorts with 2000 rooms to suit virtually everyone's taste. There is accommodation of all types and price categories. Restaurants range from the native fast-food stalls to establishments that would satisfy even a gourmet. One can find beer joints as well as discos with amazing light and sound equipments.
Those interested in fascinating underwater scenery can take part in diving courses in any PADI accredited diving school.
The island has a well established road network. Mountain bikes and motor bikes are available for rent. Tricycles (motorized bikes equipped with a sidecar) are ideal for touring the island at 150/hour. Back to top
Accommodation
Boracay establishments offer economy, superior and deluxe accommodations. Price ranges from as low as P300 ($12) to P3500 ($130). Indicated prices are those of peak season, which is somewhere between December to March. The rentals during low season decrease by 50 per cent or even less. However, rates can be negotiated, especially for long stays. Price categories refer to a cottage or room for two persons, having a verandah and a private toilet and bath. 220V electricity is available on the island. Back to top
Restaurants
Aside from numerous small snack bars and fast-food counters, a whole line of excellent restaurants with international dishes and atmosphere have been established.
Virtually, every larger resorts runs its own restaurant with Filipino and International cuisine. Apart from the specialty restaurants offered meals are usually similar in terms of prices and tastes. Fresh seafoods are at its best.
A number of cozy meeting places for after dinner chat are available. Snacks and international cocktails are served. Disco dancing is an active interest in Boracay. The latest hits and visual effects are belted out by sophisticated sound and light equipment. Back to top
How to Get There
From MANILA (by Air)
Philippines Airlines (PAL) provides three flights daily from Manila to Kalibo, the capital of Aklan Province. From Kalibo airport, air-conditioned coasters, coaches and vans are available for the one-and-a-half hour ride to Caticlan at P150/person. Or one can simply take the tricycle up to Kalibo town proper and board a jeepney for Caticlan for a lesser fare.
The most convenient way is a flight to Caticlan, jump-off point to Boracay by private airlines such as Asian Spirit, Pacific Air and Aerolift. They offer daily flights by smaller aircrafts. All flights depart from the Manila Domestic Airport.
From MANILA (by Boat)
The cheaper route when going to Boracay is by boat to the port of Dumaguit or to the town of New Washington and then proceed to Caticlan by public bus or jeepney. Boat trips are offered by WGA, Moreta Shipping Lines and Negros Navigation companies. All ships depart from North Harbor, Manila. However, it is advisable to inquire for accurate departure schedule before starting the trip.
From CATICLAN
There are frequent banca ferry services between Caticlan to the white beach in Boracay. Passengers should proceed to the boat station at Caticlan to buy a ticket and register with the Department of Tourism (DOT). There are no piers at the landing points, so pack valuables in plastic and be prepared to get wet. Three docking points have been designated in the island along the long beach area. Boat station No. 1 at the northern most, Station No. 2 in the middle and Boat Station No. 3 at the southern end. During "Habagat" season (southwest monsoon), boats dock on the other side of the island to avoid strong waves brought about by such seasons.
From ILOILO CITY
Ceres Liner buses and air-conditioned vans run almost hourly from Iloilo to Kalibo. The terminal on Iloilo is on Rizal St. (Tanza) and the trip takes about four hours. There are ordinary as well as express buses. A direct Iloilo-Caticlan bus service leaves Iloilo at 3:30, 8:30 and 10:00 a.m. daily.
From PALAWAN (By Air)
PAL flights to Iloilo from Puerto Princesa on Thursday and Sunday at 8:10 a.m.
To ILOILO
Ceres liner buses leave Kalibo from their terminal near the junction to New Washington and Banga almost hourly. The trip takes around four hours.
To PALAWAN
PAL flies from Iloilo to Puerto Princesa every thursday and Sundayat 6:40 am. Back to top
Watersports
An island like Boracay with its beautiful beaches and emerald waters offer a natural invitation for water sports activities.
Windsurfing and watersports equipment are available at prices almost everyone can afford (between 150 and 200 pesos per hour). Outriggers for sailing are for rent at P150 half day or P250 the whole day. Sailing courses with instructors are available. Sailing yacht for cruise to neighboring islands, such as Romblon and North Palawan can be chartered from time to time.
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