15 best things to do in Boracay

Located in the central Philippines, Boracay is an island paradise of white sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Though just 7 km long, the island boasts an incredible range of allures — from luxury resorts and vibrant nightlife, to water sports, eco-adventures, and wellness treats. Sound like your kind of vacation destination? Read on to be inspired by the 15 best things to do in Boracay.

1. Relax on White Beach

One of the best beaches in the Philippines, White Beach is the jewel in Boracay’s beautiful crown jewel — 4 km of powder-soft sand fronted by calm turquoise waters

Divided into Stations 1 (upscale), 2 (lively), and 3 (quiet), it caters to every type of traveler. While luxury resorts line Station 1, Station 2 buzzes with restaurants, shops and bars.

You can spend the day lounging under palm trees, swimming in gentle waves, or sipping cocktails at beachfront cafés. 

Come dusk, the beach is particularly stunning, when the horizon glows orange at sunset, and traditional paraw vessels speckle the sea.

While this is the island’s most visited area (hardly surprising, given that heading here is one of the best things to do in the Philippines), the beach remains pristine thanks to environmental controls.

2. Sail on a paraw at sunset

Put simply, there’s no more iconic Boracay experience than sailing in a traditional Filipino outrigger paraw at sunset. 

These low-lying boats glide smoothly over the water, powered only by the wind, offering a ride that’s peaceful, romantic, and thrilling all at once, especially when the sky turns fiery red and gold. 

Paraw sunset sails trips typically last 30 to 45 minutes and depart from White Beach (Stations 1 or 3). 

Either book a private ride for an intimate moment, or share with others for a sociable experience — many tours  include drinks and on-board acoustic music.

Just note that advance bookings are recommended in peak season.

Want more context on when to visit, the weather and tourist seasons? Read up on the best time to visit the Philippines.

3. Hop around idyllic islands

Though small, Boracay’s surrounding islands offer big adventures, and thrilling island hopping tours typically include stops at Crystal Cove, Crocodile Island and Puka Beach. 

While Crystal Cove boasts coves and sea caves, Crocodile Island is known for its vibrant coral reef and marine life, and Puka Beach is more rugged, famous for its crushed puka shells. 

You’ll travel by banca, a traditional Filipino motorized boat, and most tours include a buffet lunch on the beach and provide snorkel gear.

Both private and group tours are available, and some packages add stops at Magic Island (for cliff diving) or Ilig-Iligan Beach. 

Into island life? Discover the best islands in the Philippines — Boracay is among them. 

4. Snorkel or dive sublime waters

Boracay is home to over 15 dive sites, with options suitable for beginners and experienced divers, and several PADI-certified dive centers offering introductory dives and full courses. 

Popular spots include Crocodile Island, with its colorful coral gardens and abundant reef fish, and Camia Wreck, a sunken steel ship teeming with marine life. 

Many beachfront shops rent gear or offer packages including boat transfers and local guides, with guided snorkeling tours an easy way for non-divers to explore Boracay’s magical underwater world.

Expect to see parrotfish, clownfish, sea cucumbers, and occasionally turtles, and note that the water is especially typically calm and clear from November to May. 

5. Hike to Mount Luho viewpoint

As Boracay’s highest point, Mount Luho offers awe-inspiring panoramic views over the island, White Beach, Bulabog Beach, and beyond.

A short hike or tricycle ride brings you to the base, followed by a 15–20-minute climb via stairs and ramps. 

Along the trail, you’ll see exotic birds and flowering plants en route to a viewing platform that provides a 360-degree outlook.

Though the elevation is modest (just over 100 meters), the view is rewarding, especially at sunrise or just before sunset. As such, photographers wondering what to do in Boracay might want to take this trip twice.

For extra adventure, note that some ATV tours include Mount Luho as a stop.

Discover more options for fun adventure holidays in the Philippines.

6. Kiteboard and windsurf at Bulabog Beach

Located on the east of Boracay, Bulabog Beach is the island’s adventure hub, and one of Asia’s best spots for kiteboarding and windsurfing. 

From November to April, strong amihan winds create perfect conditions for beginners and seasoned pros alike, with several schools offering introductory lessons, gear rental and safety instruction, making it accessible even for first-timers. 

While the beach has a laid-back vibe, and fewer crowds than White Beach, the water buzzes with colorful sails and boards.

7. Paddle-board and kayak

For a peaceful, family-friendly adventure, try stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) or sea kayaking along Boracay’s shoreline. 

White Beach offers calm waters, especially in the morning, making it perfect for first-time paddlers. Rentals are easy to find and reasonably priced by the hour or day. 

Some tours offer guided SUP excursions at sunrise or sunset, often with a chance to spot marine life.

For a more remote experience, head to Puka Beach or Ilig-Iligan, where the water is usually even quieter. 

8. Embrace wellness 

Boracay isn’t just about beaches and water sports. It’s also a great destination for wellness, with several upscale resorts and independent studios offering yoga, meditation and spa treatments in tranquil beachside settings. 

Morning vinyasa flows or hatha classes are often held right on the sand, while sunset sessions are magical under swaying palms. 

Wellness seekers can also join detox programs, sound baths and breathwork workshops.

For example, resorts like Mandala Spa & Villas provide holistic experiences that combine yoga, organic meals, and luxurious spa therapies like hilot massage (a traditional Filipino healing art). 

On the subject of resorts, find out more about Philippines accommodation. 

9. Enjoy a private picnic on Puka Beach

For a sublimely tranquil beach experience, head to the impossibly pretty Puka Beach.

Located on the island’s northern tip, it’s known for having coarser sand (made from crushed puka shells) and is far less crowded than White Beach. 

You can arrange a beach picnic through many resorts and local tour providers, and tailor your trip to include shade tents, beanbags, drinks and gourmet meals. 

With clear water that’s ideal for safe swimming, and a row of rustic stalls selling snacks, souvenirs and fresh coconut juice, it’s a great place to disconnect and enjoy nature in a more secluded setting. 

10.  Dine at a beachfront restaurant

For something special, book a private beachfront dinner (or chef-prepared meal in your villa), complete with fancy table settings, wine pairings and a customized menu. 

Or, if you’re on more of a budget, check out beachfront restaurants that offer sunset views, affordable gourmet cuisine and ocean breezes. 

For example, places like The Lind’s Tartine, Dos Mestizos and Lemoni Café serve international and Filipino fusion dishes using fresh seafood and other local produce. 

11. Visit D’Mall 

Located in Station 2, just steps from the beach, D’Mall is Boracay’s central shopping and dining hub.

Though compact, it’s packed with personality, and offers a mix of local boutiques, souvenir shops, cafés and casual eateries. 

In short, it’s lively and colourful, but not at all overwhelming, and the perfect place to buy handmade jewelry, wood carvings, shell crafts and woven bags, along with beachwear and halo-halo (a shaved ice dessert).

For authentic local craftsmanship, seek out shops that feature products made in nearby Aklan or Panay Island.

12. Try parasailing

For a thrilling adventure, parasailing over Boracay’s turquoise waters is a pretty unforgettable activity. 

Safely harnessed to a colorful parachute, you'll be lifted hundreds of feet into the air by a speedboat.

Rides usually last around 15 minutes, and tandem or even triple rides are available, so you can enjoy the adventure with your loved ones or best mates.

You'll take-off and land from a platform on the boat, and operators provide safety briefings and life vests. 

It’s a great way to see Boracay and surrounding islands from a new angle, and to enjoy the thrill of flight without needing special skills. 

13. Visit the Motag Living Museum in Caticlan

Just 30 minutes from Boracay by boat and tricycle, the Motag Living Museum offers hands-on insights into traditional Aklanon farming and village life. 

Run by locals, the interactive museum allows visitors to try rice planting, weaving nipa leaves, grinding rice by hand and playing native instruments. 

14. Stroll the sea bed

For a fun and safe underwater adventure, try a helmet dive, also known as a sea walker tour. 

This unique experience allows you to walk on the seabed a few meters below the surface while breathing naturally through an air-supplied helmet. 

The helmets are weighted to keep you steady, and designed to keep your head dry. As such, it’s an accessible way to explore marine life up close, especially for those not ready for full scuba diving. 

Tours depart from White Beach and take about 1 hour in total, including briefing and boat transport to the site.

15. See the sun set to the tune of live music

Boracay’s sunsets are legendary, and the best way to enjoy one is from a beachfront lounge with live music and tropical drinks. 

Many bars and resorts along Station 2 host local musicians in the late afternoon, while Station 1 offers fewer crowds and stunning views. 

Whether with a mocktail or mojito in hand, experiencing sunset on White Beach is a must-do ritual that captures the soul of Boracay as the sky turns gold and pink.