Boracay guide
Every fact links to its source. Schedules, fees and prices change, so confirm with the linked operator or official site before you book. Last checked: Oct 17, 2026.
When to go
- Boracay has two seasons: amihan (northeast wind, little rain) roughly from October to March, and habagat (southwest monsoon, hot with heavy rain). Peak season is around Christmas through February. Wikipedia: Boracay
- During habagat, the west wind hits White Beach directly, so the water there can be rougher.
- Most typhoons hit between July and November, but they can happen any time. Boats and flights are cancelled in bad weather, so leave buffer days and follow PAGASA. State Dept
Getting there from the US
- From the US, fly into Manila (NAIA) or Mactan–Cebu (CEB). Philippine Airlines is the flag carrier; check PAL for current US routes. Wikipedia: Mactan–Cebu airport
- Caticlan: Godofredo P. Ramos Airport in Malay is the closest gateway, next to Caticlan port. Wikipedia: Caticlan Airport
- Kalibo: Kalibo International Airport is about 68 km from Caticlan port, so plan for a road transfer. Wikipedia: Kalibo Airport
- From Caticlan Jetty Port, a short boat ride crosses to Boracay. Fees and requirements for the crossing are set locally; check with your hotel before you go.
Where to stay
- White Beach: the main beach, about 4 km long on the west side, lined with resorts, restaurants and nightlife. Wikipedia
- Bulabog Beach: on the east side, Boracay's main windsurfing and kitesurfing beach. Wikipedia
- Diniwid and the north: quieter, reached by a footpath around the headland from White Beach.
Top things to do
- Sunset paraw (sailboat) sailing, island hopping and helmet diving. Klook: Boracay activities
- Kitesurfing and windsurfing at Bulabog Beach in amihan season. Wikipedia
- Puka Beach on the northern shore.
Rough budget
- We don't list hotel or flight prices because they change constantly. Price your trip with live searches, and treat any figures here as approximate.
- Group activities like island hopping and sunset sailing were listed on Klook from roughly US$13–30 when we checked in Oct 2026 (approximate).
- Expect local environmental and port/terminal fees at Caticlan. Amounts change, so confirm with your hotel or the Aklan provincial government.
- ATMs take most US debit cards, but fees can exceed $5 per withdrawal and limits can be low; smaller shops and taxis usually want cash. Carry pesos before heading to islands. State Dept
Tips
- SIM cards must be registered, so the State Dept suggests a travel eSIM before you leave the US. State Dept · eSIM option: Airalo Philippines eSIM
- Boracay was closed for six months in 2018 for environmental rehabilitation, and rules on the beach (smoking, drinking, structures) are enforced. Follow posted rules. Wikipedia
