Quick answer
Boracay is a small, world-famous island known for White Beach. Plan for inter-island travel (flight + boat), simple visa requirements for most nationalities, a tropical climate with peak and rainy seasons, and local rules to protect the island (e.g., environmental fees and nightlife regulations).
Visa / entry requirements
- Many nationalities get a 30-day visa-free stay; confirm with the Philippine embassy or airline before travel.
- Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from arrival for many travelers—check your country’s rule.
- You’ll normally fly to either Caticlan (Godofredo P. Ramos) or Kalibo and transfer by land/boat to Boracay.
- Expect to pay local environmental/terminal/port fees on arrival (small cash or card options). Keep receipts; you may need them for boarding or departure.
Best time to visit
- Peak / best weather: November to April (dry season, calm seas, ideal beach conditions).
- Shoulder season: October and May — fewer crowds, sometimes good prices but variable weather.
- Rainy season / monsoon: June to September — heavier rains, rougher seas, some businesses may reduce hours.
Safety tips
- General safety: Boracay is tourist-friendly but exercise normal precautions: don’t leave valuables unattended, use hotel safes, and avoid isolated beaches at night.
- Water safety: Swim between flagged areas on White Beach. Be cautious with boat trips; confirm lifejackets are provided.
- Health: Bring reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, and basic meds. Tap water isn’t always potable—use bottled or filtered water.
- Scams & touts: Ignore aggressive vendors; agree prices for tours and tricycle rides in advance.
Local customs & etiquette
- Respect local norms: modesty in village/residential areas; swimwear is fine on the beach but cover up when walking through town or entering restaurants.
- Environmental respect: Don’t litter, avoid walking on coral, and use reef-safe sunscreen. The island enforces anti-littering and other environmental rules.
- Tipping: Appreciated but not mandatory—10% is common in restaurants if service charge isn’t included.
Currency & payments
- Currency: Philippine Peso (PHP).
- Cash is useful for small purchases, tricycle fares, local markets and fees. ATMs are available but can run out during peak season—carry enough cash.
- Cards: Major hotels and many restaurants accept cards, but smaller vendors often prefer cash.
Transportation & getting around
- How to arrive: Fly to Caticlan (closest) or Kalibo (cheaper flights, 1.5–2.5 hrs by land) → transfer to Caticlan jetty → 10–20 min boat ride to Boracay.
- On-island transport: No cars allowed. Most people walk White Beach; tricycles and e-trikes handle short inland trips. Boat tours and paraw sails for island hopping.
- Timing: Allow extra transfer time for weather, traffic, and lines at the jetty, especially during peak season.
Must-know practical tips & local insights
- Book accommodation and transfers in advance during Nov–Apr.
- Choose location by vibe: Station 1 (upscale, quieter), Station 2 (central nightlife, shopping), Station 3 (cheaper, more local).
- Beach etiquette: Avoid loud music early morning/night; follow signage for protected areas.
- Activities: Popular options include island hopping with snorkeling, helmet diving, parasailing, paraw sailing at sunset, scuba diving, and food tours.
- Environment rules: The island underwent rehabilitation and enforces sanitation rules—no open septic systems, limits on new business permits. Respect closures and park rules.
- Food & drink: Try fresh seafood and local dishes (e.g., kinilaw, grilled fish). Use caution with street food if you have a sensitive stomach.
- Connectivity: Many resorts and cafes offer Wi‑Fi; mobile data works but signal varies—consider a local SIM at the airport for better coverage.
Final quick checklist
- Passport & check visa rules
- Cash (PHP) + card backup
- Waterproof bag, reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent
- Book transfers & accommodation ahead in peak season
- Respect local/environmental rules and beach flags
Enjoy Boracay’s beaches and sunsets while traveling responsibly.