The Philippines is blessed with thousands of stunning islands and beaches. Unfortunately, many of them have been overrun by commercialism and the natural beauty is a shadow of its former self. 

Calaguas Island remains relatively untouched and close to its original natural state. It also has the most stunning water and beachfront that I have seen anywhere in the world. 

While the pictures below show you the glowing blue water through the lens of a camera, nothing will prepare you for the real thing. And that alone is worth the many, many hours that it will take you to reach this remote island paradise.  

For the majority of the year, this destination remains pristine, unspoiled, and one of the most stunning islands to visit in the Philippines. 

But this is also changing as the island grows in popularity.

Virgin Island No More

While people still refer to Calaguas as a Virgin Island, in reality, it gets further from this status every year. 

It remains mostly undeveloped but there is now a resort at the beachfront, plus a handful of older beach huts. 

Every year there seems to be more of them and it is only a matter of time until more serious structures are erected. So I wanted to start off this article by saying that if you are considering going to do it as soon as you can! 

Having said this, it is still one of the more authentic opportunities to experience the natural beauty of the Philippines.

Calaguas Island Activities

I thought it was important to get you excited about visiting the island before we tell you how hard it is to get there. 

It is not an action packed place. It is slow, lazy, and a great place to get away from your everyday distractions like your cell phone/TV and live a simple life…. Even if it’s only for 24 hours. 

Almost everything revolves around the stunning beach. You will not find clearer blue water anywhere else in the Philippines, or the world for that matter.

It is worth the trip alone and you could easily just spend your time there swimming, eating, and laying on the beach. 

But there are a few other things available if you want. 

1. Snorkeling

Make the most of that crystal clear water and do some exploring along the rocky headlands. You will see all kinds of bright colored fish swimming around.

The currents are friendly and the water very warm. So it is a nice easy place to swim. If you are not a strong swimmer then the tour operators will have life jackets available so you can just float along and still enjoy the beautiful underwater spectacle.

2. Hiking

The surrounding hills are only a light walk but the view you get is still impressive given the island is very small. 

Sunset and sunrise are the stars of the show here. Both also happen at the time of day that isn’t uncomfortably hot to be hiking out in the open. 

You will usually find a local selling coconuts (buko) for just a few pesos. They are both refreshing and tasty!

3. Beach Volleyball

There are nets set up along the beach and free for you to use. 

If you have a small group of people it is a lot of fun and a good way to get active if you have been lazing about on the beach all day. 

4. Frisbee

The calm and shallow water was the perfect place to jump around trying to catch a falling frisbee. 

It is not something I had done since I was a kid and this kept us entertained for longer than I thought it would. 

It is also a great opportunity to get some amusing photos. 

5. Sand Boarding

I usually associate this activity with fail videos on Youtube. I had a go but it is surprisingly exhausting! 

I grew tired of it quickly, but some younger and more skilled companions were at this for hours and seemed to glide effortlessly onto the small waves lapping the shore. 

6. Island Hopping

Calaguas is actually the name of a small cluster of islands with Tinaga being the main island that you visit. 

You will not find any commercial tour operators on the island but can just approach locals with a boat to see if they will take you for a negotiated price (likely to be 1,000-1,500 PHP).

The one thing that all of the surrounding islands have in common is that you will be the only ones standing on them. All are uninhibited and just as beautiful. 

7. Fire Dancing

At night time fire dancers will walk  up and down the beach doing shows for the various groups of campers, and tour groups. 

This is common at most island destinations that are popular with tourists in the Philippines but there will not be much else going on at night.

So enjoy the show, and feel free to tip the performers. 

How to Get to Calaguas Island

Now before you get too carried away with excitement you should be aware of where the island is and the journey you will be required to take to get there. 

Flying to the nearest airport will save you some time but you will still need to put in many hours no matter where you are coming from.

But, I promise you that it is worth it!

By Air (7-9 Hours)

• Plane: Manila -> Naga (45 Min + check in time) 4k-12k PHP
• Van: Naga -> Daet (2 Hours) 200 PHP
• Jeepney: Daet -> Minaogan Port – 30 minutes (PHP 10 – PHP 20)
• Boat: Minaogan Port -> Calaguas (2 hours) 

Flight

The route is serviced by Cebu Pacific, but check for any other available flights and just book the cheapest one. All domestic airlines in the Philippines are equally unreliable so just book whatever suits your plans and budget best.

The advantage of taking a flight is that you can leave and arrive on the same day. Overnight buses or vans make it very hard to sleep and anything you can do to arrive fresher is worthwhile in my opinion. 

A return flight costs anywhere from PHP 4,000 to PHP 12,000 depending on when you book.

The downside is that even after you land in Naga you still have multiple legs before you step foot on the beach. 

Van (Naga to Daet)

There are usually plenty of vans available outside the arrivals area at the airport. 

They can get very cramped if it is busy and can be uncomfortable. So try and get a window seat so you at least have your own little corner. 

Jeepney (Daet to Minaogan Port)

If you are on an organized tour this is the pickup point and your guides will take care of things from here – but the methods of transportation are all the same. 

If you DIY (not recommended!), the ride should only cost PHP 10-20 and take about 30 minutes.

Frequency and routes can be unpredictable so just ask someone at the bus station for confirmation of the best pickup point.

Boat (Minaogan Port to Calaguas)

If you are DIY’ing you may have to ask around to find the correct boat. You will also find there is no set schedule – one of many reasons to just get on a tour. 

It is best to arrive at the port early in the morning to ensure you do not miss the boats heading to the island. It is also best to organize your return journey at the same time so you have a way to get back (just get a tour!).

The boat is fairly small and won’t be the most comfortable ride. My best advice is to put on some music, try and get comfortable, and tune out for the first 90 minutes of the trip. 

By then your butt will be numb and sitting will be uncomfortable. So get up and take a look around at the clear blue water that surrounds you. 

As you start to see the surrounding islands you will notice the turquoise water jumping out at you from a distance. You will go past many of these teaser beaches before you arrive at your final destination. 

But this final stretch will help you transition from tired commuter to a relaxed holiday mode. And nothing will beat that feeling when the boat turns into that shoreline. 

By Road (Up to 12-15 hours)

• Bus: Manila -> Daet – 9 Hours (PHP 650 – PHP 720)
• Jeepney: Daet -> Minaogan Port – 30 minutes (PHP 10 – PHP 20)
• Boat: Minaogan Port -> Calaguas – 2 hours

From Manila, the most frequent service runs from the Superlines terminal in Cubao. They offer multiple class options for the journey and I would recommend the air-conditioned bus, or higher.

Expect plenty of bumps and windy roads on the overnight bus trip. It is very hard to sleep which is why I recommend you just fly. 

A first-class bus will not cost much more and will give you the best chance of getting some sleep!

If you have a larger group you can also hire a private van for PHP 15K-30K depending on your length of stay. This moves faster than a bus but is even harder to sleep on due to the windy roads. 

The Jeepney and boat legs are the same as what we have already covered above. 

Organized Tour or DIY

Calaguas Tours

You already know my position on this – just get on a tour. They are cheap, easy, and you get to travel with a group. 

The value is excellent with your tent accommodation (upgrade to a hut if you want), and food (which is excellent!), and transport all taken care of. 

Prices generally range from PHP 1,799 to PHP 2,999 for a one or two-night stay. Which is around $50-$70.

Yeah you can DIY, but that means lugging a tent, food, and cooking utensils around. Plus navigating all the travel can be challenging. 

Booking a Calaguas Island tour gives you the comfort of a fixed cost with no surprises from a local trying to overcharge you for transport.

Most Calaguas tours will include the following:

• Meals (which were high quality)
• Boat and environmental fees
• Tent and beach hut access
• Snorkeling gear, volleyball, and frisbee use

Some tours will also include the round-trip bus ticket from Manila to Daet. This gives you the chance to make a few new friends before jumping on the boat.

When booking your tour online you will not be able to pay via credit card like with most modern travel sites. You will complete an online inquiry form and then have some email back & forth to confirm details and organize payment.

Two of the more reputable options are:

• Best Claguas Tour
• Way PH

DIY Accommodation

As mentioned at the top of the article, there is now a basic resort built on the island which has a small number of cottages and fixed glamping tents that are a cut above the regular camping options. 

You can organize this in advance and have a bit more comfort than what was available in the past. 

However, most people just camp. There is a 100 PHP fee for your tent space – but that just gets you a patch of grass.

Facilities are limited to a basic toilet (usually no toilet seat or running water) and bathroom that will vary in quality depending on which camping ground you stay at.

Showers are non-existent and you will have to purchase a bucket of water instead for PHP 10 per bucket. But this does the job just fine.

Best Time to Visit Calaguas Island

• Nov to Feb – Mild weather, less predictable seas. 
• Mar to July – Perfect!
• Aug to Nov – Typhoon Season (avoid!).

The weather is mild from around November to February but the sea conditions can be less predictable. February to July is more stable and you will get amazing weather throughout this period. 

However, I would strongly discourage you from visiting whenever there is a long weekend of any kind. 

Holy Week (from Easter Thursday) especially sees the tourist numbers explode! This really defeats the purpose of coming to Calaguas if it is crowded so avoid these dates and you will have a much more enjoyable experience. 

August through to November is typhoon season. Not the best time to visit isolated virgin islands as you will get regular rain and the occasional typhoon that could see you stuck for days. 

Final Word

Calaguas Island is one of the few remaining spots that are accessible to tourists but remains fairly untouched. 

But this is changing fast! So visit as soon as you can. 

Don’t let the arduous journey turn you off going. It will be worth it and you will be living the closest thing to deserted island life that you may ever get to experience. 

I guarantee that you will remember that glorious aqua-colored glow under the bright sun more than the uncomfortable boat seats.

Read more:

• Caramoan Island Experience
• Complete list of activities in Boracay
• Best activities and places to visit in Bohol

You will find a long list of activities that will suit every kind of holiday you could imagine when visiting this mid-sized island in the central Visayas region. 

There are numerous beaches and water activities on offer surrounded by natural beauty to rival anywhere else on earth. 

If you are more of a land lover then you will find some of the most unique animals and land formations in the Philippines.

Bohol really has something for everyone and we have put together a list of all of the best activities that Bohol has to offer. We have divided this into three categories – you can jump ahead using the links below – land, water and adventure activities.

Why Visit Bohol

One of the main draws of Bohol is the accessibility of the place.

It has it’s own airport which makes it a quick & easy trip from the capital Manila. From there you are just ten minutes away from being on the beach. 

Compared to other islands in the Philippines this is a very easy trip! 

This makes it a great destination for long weekends, or a stepping stone on a longer trip through the Visayas.

As you will see in the rest of this post there is a ton of activities to keep you busy. But you could easily spend a week lounging around the beaches and having a nice and relaxing vacation.

5 Land Based Activities in Bohol

1. Tarsier Sanctuary 

A Tarsier could best be disguised as a tiny little monkey-like creature that sleeps most of the time in trees, but whenever they are awake they have a cartoon like look of surprise on their face. 

They are very cute but those big beady eyes will make you wonder what they have going on inside their head… Or maybe they are that surprised to see you! 

The Tarsier sanctuary allows you to get close up to these funny little animals will a handful of enclosures scattered around a small area. 

2. Chocolate Hills 

This unusual natural landscape is the signature postcard view of Bohol.

The Chocolate Hills look like a series of oversized mole hills that cover an open plain. There are numerous platforms to view the hills but the best one can be found at Sagbayan Peak?

Unfortunately, an earthquake back in 2013 caused some of the hills to partially collapse. You will notice some of the mounds that were formally perfectly shaped have had one side collapse in what looks like a mini landslide.

3. Honey Bee Farm

This was located just near our hotel on Panglao Island and is a fun place to spend the afternoon. 

You will find a nice assortment of honeys, jams and other homemade goodies on sale here. But the highlight is on the on-site restaurant. 

They serve meals made only from fresh and organic ingredients and everything that I tried was great! The outdoor balcony overlooks the beautiful waters of the white beach and is a great place for lunch on a sunny day.

4. Fireflies and Night Kayaking

If you haven’t seen fireflies up close then this is an evening not to be missed.

As you head up the river you will see trees that light up like it is Christmas! But it is just the natural glow of hundreds of fireflies. 

It is both puzzling and beautiful how these tiny insects create this light, and the impact that it has on the landscape there are clusters of them flying around. 

It is very difficult to get a good picture of fireflies so if you have a SLR camera make sure you bring it along. Just hold on to it tightly!

5. Visit the Mangrove Monkeys (Loon Macaques)

Less popular than the famous Tarsiers, these little mangrove monkeys look and behave more like your regular monkey.

As you walk around the boardwalk style footpath that weaves in and out of the mangroves these little primates will play and follow you around for most of your visit once you start feeding them.

They are not quiet, shy, or sleepy like the Tarsiers. So expect a more lively (but less cute) experience!

4 Water Based Activities in Bohol

1. Island Hopping 

Almost every destination in the Philippines has their own version of island hopping. Caramoan is still my favorite, but Bohol is right up there. 

I really liked the fact that it was not a strenuous day and very relaxed for the most part. 

Some of the highlights were the marine sanctuary at Balicasag Island, and the mini food markets at the sandbar on Virgin Island with it’s selection of interesting eats. 

You finish by just hanging out at Alona Beach where you can swim, or just lay in a hammock drinking Buko (coconut).

Many of the organized tours also incorporate the following two activities on the list – but they are worth mentioning on their own also. 

2. Dolphin Watching 

Ok, this is more like Dolphin chasing. Although I have heard that they are not always as elusive as when I was there. 

There are a handful of boats that troll the waters searching for a glimpse of a pod of dolphins, and then as spoon as they are spotted all of the boats rush in. 

Unless you get lucky you may only see them from a distance, and only briefly. The rush of boats can force them to swim deeper rather than their signature pattern of diving in and out of the water.

3. Snorkelling at Balicasag Island Marine Sanctuary

The crystal clear waters surrounding Bohol make Snorkeling far more enjoyable here than in other parts of the world. 

The marine sanctuary especially is quite well looked after and you will be treated to a colorful and diverse mix of fish and coral.

You will find the water to be quite buoyant and the temperatures very nice. But if you are not a strong swimmer you can just float along with a life vest on. 

4. White Beach at Panglao Island

We stayed at the Amarela Resort which opens up onto the sands at White Beach. 

This stretch of sand is quieter than other parts of the island but the water is simply amazing! The turquoise colors just jump out at you on a sunny day and it is a very relaxed place to hang out. 

Given how cheap the hotel is for a 4 star resort I couldn’t recommend this highly enough.

3 Adventure Activities

1. Adventure Caving

There are better known caves in Bohol but I really enjoyed being able to climb down into a space with limited walkways, and fencing. 

Just some ropes and a tour guide is all you get as you descend into this dark and narrow cave. 

At the end of the descent there is an underground pool that is actually quite deep in places. It is a very refreshing swim! 

2. The Plunge

Ok i thought this was a bit lame, but people seem to really enjoy it. 

The anticipation of hanging in mid air not knowing when you will be dropped into a valley to become a human pendulum will make your heart skip a beat. 

But, if you have ever bungee jumped this may not quite measure up. 

3. Zip Line

If the above doesn’t excite you then the zipe line is another notch down the excitement scale. 

Better for those who struggle with heights. Otherwise not quite the rush you may be seeking. 

Other Activities that Didn’t Make the List

These all fall into the category of if you’re into that. 

• Butterfly Sanctuary
• Loboc Church 
• Cabagnow Cave Pool

Final Word

I returned to Bohol time and time again due to it’s mix of fun activities, natural beauty, and just the right blend of infrastructure (it has an airport!) and the peace and quiet you expect in a Filipino province. 

Due to the accessibility, and lifestyle on the island it is my top choice for a relaxing get away.

Read more: 

• 40+ Activities on Boracay Island

You will have a great time doing little more than swimming, eating, sleeping and drinking. 

But, there is so much more on offer for those who want to be a bit more active. 

We have put together this comprehensive checklist of everything you can do on the island so you can get organized ahead of time. 

Because once you are there, just lazing around on the beach is a tempting way to spend each day. 

How to Book Boracay Activities

When on the island you will constantly be approached by people trying to sell you these activities. 

Unless you are a local, expect the prices to be inflated at first. You will need to haggle your way down to something reasonable. 

I always found this to be a major hassle! 

Some of these activities can be booked online ahead of time. The price will be better than, or comparable to what you will get in person and removes that hassle. 

It also gives you some reassurance that you are not paying through the nose – which can leave a bitter taste in the mouth. 

Boracay activities that you can book online are below:

• Banana Boat
• Island Hopping
• Parasailing
• Helmet Diving
• UFO
• Sunset Cruise
• Day Sailing
• Day Spa & Massage
• Fish Spa
• Wakeboarding
• Scuba Diving
• Paddleboarding
• Reverse Bungee
• Cliff Diving
• ATV Tour
• Jet Ski Tour
• Kite Surfing
• Helicopter Tour
• Boracay Island Tour
• Professional Island Photoshoot
• Speed Boat
• Underwater Scooter

This is far from our full list (less than half), and many of the suggested activities are completely free. 

So read on and get planning!

Beaches to Visit 

There are lots of beaches on the island. The majority of which get very few visitors. 

They are all just a short tricycle ride away if you are in the mood to do some exploring. 

1. White Beach 

This is the most popular and where 90% of the visitors will spend all their time. The majority of this article is focused on this area so nothing further to add here. 

2. Puka Shell Beach

Located right at the northern tip of the island where you will find a beach just as beautiful as White Beach but without the clutter surrounding it.

You may run into the occasional boatload of tourists who are on island hopping trips. But aside from that it is generally quiet. 

3. Ilig-Iiligan Beach 

This would be the least popular place to visit and it is surrounded by little more than bushland and very little infrastructure. 

If you are looking for a window into the old Boracay this may be as close as you get. 

It may only be a matter of time until the commercial sprawl starts to creep into the area. So check it out while you can. 

4. Bulabog Beach

Located opposite Station 2 at the northern end of White Beach, this area is a hub for some of the more active watersports.

Kite surfing and windsurfers are constantly darting up and down the horizon as you look out to the east. 

Parasailing also transfers to this side of the island in the quieter months through rainy season. 

There are hotels and resorts here also and is a great place to stay if you are going to be spending a lot of your time immersed in the watersports on offer. 

Water Based Activities

As mentioned earlier, you will constantly run into people trying to sell you these activities.

By booking ahead of time you can get past this process which can be a hassle. Those activities that can be pre-booked have links included below where you can find the most up to date prices.

5. FlyFish

This is great fun and will challenge you far more than the Banana Boat which looks boring AF!! 

As the boat picks up speed the inflatable you are holding on to will fly up in the air and the strain to hang on while the boat corners will test you out. 

Expect to be flung around and eventually off the device, before they circle back and pick you up for another round. 

You can fit up to eight people on the ride, but stick to 3-4 for maximum carnage! 

6. Banana Boat

The poor boring cousin of the above…. Don’t bother unless you are easily amused. 

I guess it will make a good photo when traveling in a group. But seriously guys, get on the FlyFish.

>>>Check Price<<<

7. Parasailing

This is popular with parachutes airborne from sunrise to sunset most days. And this is another that I just cannot understand! 

Yes, you get up fairly high in the air…. But nothing happens when you are up there. You just cruise at a pretty dull speed. 

Unless you have an innate fear of heights it wasn’t much of a thrill. But the colleague I flew up with screamed the whole time.

So I guess most would enjoy it… 

>>>Check Price<<<

8. Island Hopping

This is a pleasant day sailing around the calm seas to nearby islands, and also check out some of the beaches on the other side of Boracay Island. 

Sample itinerary:

• Start at White Beach 
• Coral Garden
• Balinghai
• Tambisaan Beach
• Puka Beach
• Crocodile Beach 
• Ilig-iligan Beach 
• Return to White Beach

Some of the tours also include helmet diving (No. 10) if you wanted to kill two birds with one stone.

>>>Check Price<<< 

9. Cliff jumping

I have not tried this one, but it was always top of my list. 

After so many visits I have no excuse…. But I will do it next visit!!

I love jumping off ledges into the water and this has a number of springboards at differing heights. All the way up to 10 meters I believe.

>>>Check Price<<<

10. Helmet Diving

The helmets themselves are very cool. Unlike a sealed mask, the helmet creates an air bubble inside. 

This enables you to walk freely on the ocean floor with air to breathe. 

>>>Check Price<<<

11. Snorkeling

Similar view as the Helmet diving, but more freedom to get horizontal and swim around. 

This will be a better option if you are strong in the water. Whereas the helmet diving is more of a casual stroll. 

12. UFO Ride

A slightly more tame version of the fly fish experience. 

Rather than having to hang on for dear life, you can sit back in this inflatable space ship looking device as you get towed around the open sea. 

This is definitely a more family friendly activity. But if you are not traveling with kids then go for the fly fish instead! 

>>>Check Price<<<

13. Paddle Boarding

The waters around the island are usually very calm and are perfect for paddleboarding. 

You can cruise up and down the beach at your leisure and it is also great exercise! 

>>>Check Price<<<

14. Jet Skiiing

There is a designated jet ski area in the southwestern end of White Beach. 

It may be a little dull for those who are experienced on these watercraft but for the beginner, it would still be great fun. 

>>>Check Price<<<

You can also take a private jet ski tour around the island, and to neighboring islands. 

This is a bit more expensive, but is a cool way to go island hopping. It is also a bit more enjoyable to be jet skiing with a purpose than just going around in circles for no reason. 

It is one of the more expensive activities on the island.

>>>Check Price<<<

15. Mermaid Swimming

This must be a chick thing… I’ll leave it at that. 

16. Sunset Sailing 

At the northern end of Station 2 you will find a stack of boats sitting on the shore waiting for customers to take out onto the water. 

You can take a day trip on a sailing boat, but this activity comes to life at sunset where you will get front row seats to a pretty spectacular sight. 

>>>Check Price<<<

17. Fishing

You can find a local to take you out fishing, but this is one activity where you can expect to be disappointed. 

The waters are overfished and for a western recreational fisherman, you probably won’t find what you are looking for. 

But, if you want a nice day on the water to throw a line in while you relax with a few beers then you can still have a nice day out. 

Just stay away from the reefs. Fishing too close is illegal, and you will do damage to the coral. 

18. Scuba Diving

You will find scuba centers scattered along the beach that will accommodate both licensed and non-licensed divers. 

The water surrounding the island is both clear and calm so a relatively safe place to test the waters if you are new to diving. 

For the more serious diver you will find a diverse underwater world with some stunning sea life, and scenery.

>>>Check Price<<<

19. Glass Bottom Boating

Another more family oriented activity for those wanting a less immersive experience. 

The next best thing to diving, but it is a distant second! 

You are at the mercy of the weather with the visibility through the glass being poor at times when the wind picks up. 

You will have the option to snorkel at some of the stops you make along the way, and can also feed the fish if you want to. 

20. Slides N’ Splash Water Park

Here you will find a network of inflatable floating obstacles, slides and that big cushion thing where you can launch your mate into the air and crashing into the water. 

Great place to play around if you are looking for more action in your swim than the calm Boracay seas can offer. 

21. Kite surfing

This activity is done over on the eastern side of the island from Bulabog Beach and is not for the faint hearted! 

You can take a lesson to get you started and if you can master it then my hat goes off to you! 

>>>Check Price<<<

22. Wind Surfing

Similar to kite surfing, you will need a lesson to get you started.

You can hire a board and take off around the bay and attempt to get the hang of it. It looks like fun, but I could never quite get the balance right. 

23. Wakeboarding

If you have never wakeboarded before expect to be sore for the next few days…. Really sore!!

It takes some strength to pull yourself out of the water, and when you get there you have to stay composed enough to stay balanced and on your feet.

It is great fun, but the soreness will kick in two days later and it can be debilitating if you have not done it before. Trust me! 

>>>Check Price<<<

24. Speed Boat Rental

One thing you will see everywhere around the beaches are speed boats towing around all of the floatation devices mentioned so far in this list. 

But, if you scrap any load to be towed around these boats could pick up a hell of a lot of speed. 

This is a twist on the island hopping day tour and will see you flying along between islands, not wasting any time. 

The faster you go, the more you see! 

>>>Check Price<<<

25. Underwater Scooter

For those who are less confident in the water, you can motorize the whole experience! I have not tried this one – and would prefer to swim anyway – but I am so curious as to how this would work. 

Again the calm seas and lack of strong currents around the island would make this a simple craft to operate and will enable you to cover a lot of ground as you explore the ocean floor. 

>>>Check Price<<<

Land Based Activities 

This is focused on daytime activities. We will cover the bar scene and nightlife in the next section. 

For those looking for some good wholesome fun there is plenty to keep you occupied each day. 

26. ATV Tour

I found this activity to be a real snoozer! The only highlight being the (tower?) which gives you a stunning view of the island. 

You will be in a group of 10-20 ATVs and will move at a snail’s pace…. Nothing like the Mayon Volcano ATV – which was awesome! 

So you are really just paying for the experience of riding this thing at 5 mph down a dodgy island road. 

Some people on the tour really enjoyed it. So don’t let me turn you off, just wasn’t for me. 

>>>Check Price<<<

27. Tindahan it Boracay (Wet) Market 

Here you will find fresh seafood for a fraction of the price of the beachfront restaurants. 

You will need to haggle a little, but I have found that a kilo of prawns (or shrimp…), a lobster and a handful of clams would set you back about p1,500.

Every side of the market has small restos who will cook up your catch for p200 per plate with a sauce of your choosing and rice. 

They have cheap beer on offer to wash it all down too. 

Yes, this is open at nighttime too, but if you have cleaned up and ready to head out then hanging around a very fishy smelling market may not be the aroma you want to carry around with you. 

28. Regular Markets

The alleys that surround the Wet Market (name?) are full of flea market style vendors attempting to sell you tacky souvenirs and I Love Boracay singlets. 

If that is your thing then you can spend a good hour or two wandering around checking things out. 

29. Shopping 

Most shops are in and around D-Mall and along the beachfront. Here you will find all the usual beachy kind of places. 

I dislike shopping at the best of times so I have little advice to offer here except to wander around and see what you like.

Oh, and take note of the shop policies… 

<insert bikini shop pic>

30. Rock Climbing

Also in D-mall is a small rock climbing wall. It is right in the center where the narrow mall opens up into a larger area flanked by restaurants. 

There are multiple difficulty levels and any reasonably fit person should be able to give the wall a pretty good shake. 

31. Day Spa and Massage

For a more relaxing experience to get you into the laid-back island state of mind there are tons of cheap massage options around the island. 

You can have one right on the beach and listen to the waves and passing foot traffic. Or you can go into one of the more reputable establishments for a clean, air-conditioned environment. 

One suggestion I would make is that if you want the indoor option go to the actual storefront so you know where the massage will take place.

Many of the masseuses will stand at the beachfront to find customers and then take you to wherever their table is (although this was apparently banned after the island closure). 

You can spot these girls because they will be in a uniform and on the beach.

Whereas the ladies who give you a massage at the beach have no uniform and will sit you down at the sunbeds right in front of them.

I make this point only so you have a comfortable experience. I went with this option once and ended up in some room with no AC and dodgy bed sheet partitions separating the beds.

I had to listen to a room full of old white guys attempt to flirt with their young masseuse… Not a relaxing atmosphere at all. 

There are less reputable places on the island in the back alleys. I only know this because the entrance to my hotel on one stay was in the same back alley and the workers would call me in every time I walked by. 

It was a nuisance, but never threatening. 

>>>Check Price<<<

32. Fish Spa

For a different kind of massage you can dunk your feet into a tank of hungry fish. They will nibble at your skin and provide you with a very weird kind of cleanse that will leave you fresh oddly fresh toes.

If you are squeamish or overly ticklish then this may not be for you. But if you can get past the strange feeling it can be quite relaxing. 

>>>Check Price<<<

33. Zorba

Basically you get inside a giant ball and get rolled down a hill. 

The chaos once you are inside is multiplied if you have more than one person in there. You will be tripping over each other as you get thrown around.

34. Reverse Bungee 

You will get the best view available on the island here. The only problem is you will be moving way too fast to really enjoy it!! 

This is located in a small complex at Station 3. 

>>>Check Price<<<

35. Golf

I didn’t even know there were gold courses on the island until I went up the <name> tower and could see the full 360 degree view.

These are right at the northern end of the island where the luxury hotels are. 

It may even be part of the Shangri-La complex. I have never played, nor wanted to play when in island mode (despite being a keen golfer). 

The rounds are expensive and aimed at a different crowd. 

36. Helicopter Tour

Yes this one is a bit more expensive but what better way to see every corner of the island from a view that not many get to see. 

If you are lucky enough to get the window seat on the flight in you may catch a small glimpse of the island. This experience gives you the full picture of Boracay with it’s unique shape, colors, and beautiful island surroundings. 

When back on land you may be able to retrace your steps to a hidden beach that no one else knew was there… 

>>>Check Price<<<

37. Boracay Island Land Tour

This half day tour can be a great introduction to the island so you can get your bearings, and also get outside of the White Beach area. 

If you are new to the island you may not know what is out there, and once surrounded by the convenience and commercialism of the White Beach area you may not feel motivated to leave. 

By locking in a tour ahead of time you will see the less popular, but no less beautiful beaches, see how the locals live, and learn a thing or two about the island’s history while you are at it. 

>>>Check Price<<<

38. Professional Island Photoshoot

For those traveling as a couple you will get some memorable photos from a session with a professional photographer. 

With glistening blue water, white sand, and palm trees as your backdrop you can take home some lasting memories from your island vacation. 

Or if you just want some professional quality pics for your instagram account, there will be no shortage of instagrammable places. 

You will quickly see why Boracay is a popular wedding destination! 

>>>Check Price<<<

Night Time Activities

The fun doesn’t stop when the sun goes down. In fact, one of the main draws for Boracay as a destination is the nightlife. 

Most other destinations outside of the capital cities are very quiet after dark but the shores of White Beach will be buzzing until the early hours of the morning. 

39. Watch the Sunset

Ok, so this isn’t an activity as such (not a paid one anyway) it is something that you will be looking forward to every day! 

White Beach faces directly west and you will be treated to some amazing colors with a sprinkling of sailing boats in the foreground.

Combined with the music on the beach and the gathering of people all there for the same spectacle you get a unique atmosphere that is fun in a very Boracay kinda way. 

40. Bar Hopping

At night time you will find bars, clubs, and restaurants all along the beach offering a wide range of music and atmosphere. 

My best advice here is to just start walking and stop wherever catches your eye. 

You can have a quiet drink with some laid back reggae music playing in one bar, then move to have dinner on the sand with live singers and bands playing covers of popular songs. 

After that you can head to the clubs where things kick up a gear and the party crowd congregates. 

Plenty of options to satisfy your mood and taste. 

41. Karaoke

The staple of Filipino entertainment! You will find videoke on offer in a handful of the bars scattered along the beach at night time. 

But if you have a group of friends you can just head to one of the dedicated videoke places where you get your own room and can bust out your best high note without making a public spectacle of yourself. 

Something that only foreigners seem to mind… 

42. Pub Crawl

I had to throw this one in. Always a fun night out. 

For more info check out our full review of the Boracay pub crawl. 

Final Word

This list is only the start of your boracay experience. The best part is that you could choose to do none of these and still have an amazing time lazing around on the beach, swimming and eating. 

But as you can see there is a lot on offer here to ensure you have a fun time. 

Nothing on this list is unique to the Philippines though and it will be a more generic tropical island holiday. But that is what Boracay is these days. 

If you are looking for something more cultural then check out our list of Philippines Islands and I am sure you will find something to your liking.

Read more:

• Caramoan Island – Filming Location of Survivor Philippines
• Best Tourist Spots in Bohol

While the island was known for its nightlife, outside of the former big party weekends like Laboracay and Holy Week most of the venues can be very hit and miss.

Some nights they are full, others completely empty. If you get on the pub crawl then the party will follow you no matter where you go.

If you visit the island you should do the crawl at least once… Maybe twice.

The Pub Crawl Crowd

You will always find a hot pot of cultural diversity.

A mix of tourists, locals, and OFWs home for their annual visit will make up the crowd. Everyone has an interesting background and a story to tell (well most people).

You will usually have a good mix of guys and girls and somewhere between 50-150 attendees.

On the bigger nights, things can get a bit chaotic to say the least!

I have attended the pub crawl both with people, and when traveling solo.

Had a great time on both occasions and was a great way to meet some people to hang out with on the night and for the rest of your visit.

Cost and Inclusions

Your ticket for the night is p990 (about $20) and is pretty good value compared to a regular night out drinking, and to other activities on the island.

This comes with a stack of extras:

• Your pub crawl t-shirt
• Wrist band
• Shot glass
• Fast access to all venues
• Shots on arrival (and departure) at all venues

The shot glass will be on a lanyard that goes around your neck so you don’t lose it…. It will get a workout. Trust me!

Bar Itinerary

Meeting Point

The night always kicks off at the Exit Bar meeting point, which is home base.

I always enjoy this part of the night. It is a great chance to chat to as many people as you can before heading to a noisy venue.

This is also when everyone is at their soberest – so it is the most awkward part of the night.

Always best to move around and introduce yourself to people early so once the drinks to kick in you are more of a familiar face.

You will spend about 45 minutes at four or five bars throughout the night. I can never remember how many…. or where they are.

On arrival you will get a yellow t-shirt, and a shot of something. Again my memory is fuzzy here. I remember something that tasted like coffee.

Everyone will write a name, or nickname, of their choosing on the shirt so that people can learn your name.

Pro tip: This can be a great conversation starter. My brother just wrote Anonymous as his name. People couldn’t help but ask him about it all night.

The Crawl venues

The venues on the itinerary will change from night to night. This is great if you want to back up for a few nights on your visit.

Great to discover bars that you didn’t know were there, or at an end of the beach you had not yet visited.

• Epic
• Wave
• Club Paraw
• Gypsy Shack

Something that I do remember is that the list of venues does change regularly. I have been on the Boracay Pub Crawl three times now and my most recent adventure went to two bars I didn’t know existed.

So it is a good way to discover new places. Of course, if you want to go there again you have to remember where they all are. I can’t help you there.

Games Between Bars

At least once a night they will take the whole crowd down to the beach to play some games, have some shots, and get to know more of your fellow pub crawlers.

This is usually a few bars into the night when people are full of dutch courage and a bit more rowdy.

My memory is again hazy of what the games were, but I do remember laughing my ass off many times at this stage.

And once leaving the area handcuffed to two people for a long walk up the beach to the next venue.

One was an Indian working in Dubai and a Filipino OFW. Both interesting people and they became drinking buddies for the night.

The Final Stop

As the night draws to a close you always seem to end up a long way from D-mall towards Station 1.

Once the official crawl is over people will either hang around at the final bar until late, or disperse across the island.

You will always find a handful of yellow t-shorts at Epic until the early hours of the morning. So you will never run out of people to party with.

It can be a long walk from there back to your nearest late night food options. A drunken stumble down the beach is always fun with your new group of friends.

Great for Solo Travelers

My last trip was a solo one, and the pub crawl was great to meet a few people to party with.

A much better choice than being that random guy approaching tables for someone to share a beer with. Never an easy thing to do in Boracay with everyone always drinking at isolated tables, and being served at tables.

Not much room to make an introduction there unless you are very brave and/or charismatic.

It can also brighten up your trip to see some familiar faces the next day on the beach. Of course, the conversation always starts with “what was your name again.”

You can avoid this on the pub crawl as everyone has their name written on their yellow Boracay Pub Crawl shirt. An iconic symbol on its own.

The pub crawl leaders are all very welcoming and made sure you were looked after throughout the night, and that everyone was involved in the activities.

I had no hesitation in flying solo at the pub crawl. After attending a couple of times with my brother we kept losing track of each other in the crowd anyway.

So it wasn’t that much different once you got a few drinks deep.

Minor Precautions

When on your way home there are a few basics to be aware of to ensure safe passage. This is not including your drunken state – common sense prevails here.

Transport

If you are noticeably drunk, expect to pay more for a tricycle. Most drivers are well rehearsed in when a tourist becomes less price sensitive.

But the difference will be trivial in most foreign currencies. So don’t sweat it.

Prostitution

Another word of caution for the late night walk home is that there is a lot of prostitution in Boracay that comes out late at night.

Most just hang out in bars and keep to themselves unless approached.

But, when the crowd thins out the undesirables can become more persistent. You are likely to be approached by prostitutes lurking in the dark who’s gender can be a bit of a grey area.

This secret photographic evidence of such an encounter always makes me laugh.

Had to let this go on long enough to snap the pic before I let the guy know that this super friendly lady was, in fact, a prostitute… and wasn’t a lady.

The pub crawl runs on most nights with the biggest being the Friday and Saturday night crawls.

If you are on the island for a week you will find by Sunday you will have a mostly different crowd to party with as people come and go from the island.

How to Buy Tickets

During the day you will see the pub crawl reps at Station 2 recruiting people as they walk by.

They can be very persuasive!

You can also buy them online via the pub crawl website.

Check online for t

Final Word

I would recommend the pub crawl to both solo travelers and those in a group. It is great fun no matter what crowd you start off with and you will be sure to make plenty of new friends along the way.

My only word of warning is the dreaded Boracay Pub Crawl Facebook page.

They have a photographer who captures the night at every turn and some of those fuzzy memories could become very permanent and very public moments.

There are thousands and thousands of past pub crawlers who are members of the FB page and it is only a matter of time until someone you know finds the evidence of you in all your drunken glory.

Every island you can visit has a unique blend of culture, language, food and natural beauty.

Whether you are chasing the tropical party life of Boracay, or a secluded and isolated island experience in Calaguas.

There is an island to match all tastes, budgets, and appetite for adventure.

Best Islands in the Philippines

1. Caramoan

This tops the list due to the sheer variety of experiences on offer.

We stayed at the resort where Survivor Philippines was filmed and the waterfront digs made for a spectacular wake up call each morning.

It was hard not to smile the moment you looked outside.

The island hopping is as good as you will find anywhere else in the country with the exception of maybe El Nido.

It is a great day out and that is inclusive of some small hikes, lunch on a sandbar, and the impressive double sided beach on Matukad Island.

My favourite activity was an underground river/cave that put the more famous Puerto Princesa version to shame.

No boats, only life vests so you can float on your back in the areas where the river is shallow and the roof low.

We swam deep into this cave for at least 20-30 minutes. It was an incredible experience and one that is not widely advertised. You could drive past this cave and never know its there.

Aside from this there are rock climbing and hiking activities that are a lot of fun.

If you get a chance to try the local seafood then this was also a treat.

2. Calaguas

Easily the most beautiful place in the Philippines that I have visited. But, being a virgin island it doesn’t have the variety in activities that Caramoan offers.

But, if you are one for solitude and can kick back on an isolated beach for days on end then you will not find a better place to do it.

I am a city boy, so the deserted island thing wears thin on me at the 24-48 hour mark. Time really does slow down when you are here.

So while it is potentially good therapy for me to de-clutter the brain and slow down it wasn’t enough to land top spot.

What you will find though are mostly undisturbed beaches that have the clearest, bluest water you will encounter anywhere.

That aqua glow will make your jaw drop!

The clear water makes for some great snorkelling along the headlands, and if your venture out of the water there are some stunning views on offer at the top of <name> hill.

The tour operator that took us there set up tents next to the beach for us, and provided some high quality meals – which was unexpected, but very good!

But being one of very few people at the beach we ditched the tent and just slept on the sand next to the water under the stars.

3. Boracay

While this one is lower on the list, it is where I visited the most in my time in there… by far!

The thing with islands in the Philippines is that once the sun goes down there isn’t much going on except for the odd karaoke bar.

Boracay has a great mix of water sports, beaches, food, and at night time a fairly lively mix of beach bars and clubs.

It is a much more westernised destination and you can seek out everything from the full luxury experience to a seriously cheap stay.

Either way you are guaranteed to have a blast!!

Purists will tell you about the old Boracay when it was unspoilt. But go to one of the other islands on this list and you can find something closer to it’s original state.

Boracay ain’t it. But its awesome!!

My personal Boracay routine consists of a sleep in, followed by a morning swim to shake off the hangover.

Wander up to Jonah’s for a fruit shake and breakfast…. Followed by another swim.

For lunch head to the wet market where we would feast on lobster, prawns and whatever other seafood caught our eye while tucking into a few beers.

Then another swim.

Find a good spot to watch the famous sunset before a beach side dinner. Then off the famous pub crawl or one of the bars.

Of course there are the water sports too. Just about every aqua activity you can imagine:

• Parasailing
• Banana Boat
• Jet skiing
• Cliff diving
• Paddle boarding
• Underwater Scooter
• Snorkelling
• Helmet diving
• Kite boarding
• Scuba diving
• Island hopping
• Fishing

Back on land, you also have the ATV tours, golf courses, and a number of places with some incredible views of the island.

If you want to get away from the crowds then head over to <name> beach. This is on the opposite side of the island to white beach and is just as nice.

4. Bohol

I loved the mix of beaches and unique activities in Bohol…. And the convenience!!

There are not many island getaways that are suitable for a weekend getaway. Most places just take too damn long to get to! But with an airport in the middle of the island it is a quick trip from Manila.

In Bohol you will find a long list of well known tourist spots and activities:

• Honey farm place
• Zip line
• Chocolate Hills

Activities aside, you can find plenty of cheap hotels on <name> part of the island. The sparking blue water will rival that of Boracay, but in a more tranquil setting.

Bohol has its own airport and all of these sites are just a short taxi, bus or tricycle ride away.

One of my more memorable bus journeys was in Bohol where the bus was a little full, so they told me to just get on the roof.

I climbed up and hung on while we dodged tree branches the whole way home. After a few people alighted (and a few close calls) they called out for us to climb down and take a seat…

5. El Nido

El Nido is the crown jewel of Palawan. Unfortunately direct flights there are very expensive and the drive from Puerto Princesa is about six hours.

But it is worth the trip.

The island hopping day trips are a stand out in the Philippines. Absolutely stunning!

But for me this was not enough to place it higher on the list – it frequently tops global rankings though so perhaps my opinion is misplaced.

For me this was bumped down because there wasn’t that much else to do. Island hopping can get a bit repetitive and with four different day tours on offer you may get tired of it before completing them all.

The nightlife is ok, but not a stand out. The food also just ok compared to other destinations.

So overall I think your time may be better spent elsewhere unless you are ok to spend a full week where you can alternate between island hopping and lazy days.

6. Cagbelete

For something off the beaten path there is a small island in Quezon province that will feel like a trip back in time.

I once came to this island for an organised party with busloads of attendees shipped in from Manila.

The majority had the sense to book accommodation where the party was being held. I just picked one randomly from the list of options provided.

Turns out this was on the opposite side of the island, had no roads or paths, and was only accessible in the following ways:

• Via the coast at low tide
• At high tide through the middle of the island which included walking through 10ft high grass fields.
• By boat

There are some limitations to prepare for when visiting the island:

• Bring food with you. There are no guarantees you will find vendors offering anything more than two minute noodles and chips.
• Electricity is probably not available during the daylight hours in many places.

But what you will find are stunning clear blue waters, a very relaxed atmosphere, and some very friendly locals.

Islands that should be on the list

Other islands which I have not been able to visit but plan to in the near future:

• Palaui
• Coron
• Bantayan

Southern Philippines

You may notice that there are no islands mentioned in the south of the country around the Mindanao area.

There are plenty of islands in Mindanoa that are safe visited frequently by tourists. Some of the best known are:

• Siargao – well known for its surfing
• Camiguin – famous sandbar and stunning beaches
• Surigao del Sur – home of the Enchanted River

It is important to note that there are some regions that while beautiful are no go zones for tourists.

While many Filipinos have told me how safe they, you cannot get away from the multiple examples of western tourists being kidnapped in the region and any islands in and around the following regions should be avoided:

• Southern Mindanao
• Sulu Archipelago
• Zamboanga Peninsula

Final Word

For those who have the time to explore you will never run out of smaller islands to take you off the beaten path.

It is a wonderful country to get lost in and with the cost of living relatively cheap it is viable for the average westerner (who has the time!) to undertake long term travel in the Philippines.

So if you find a hidden gem then share it with us here. I would love to add it to the to do list!

Read more: 

• Best place to swim with whale sharks in the Philippines

The combination of culture shock, and the novelty of a venue that would be completely illegal in most, if not all, western countries makes for an interesting introduction to Manila and the Philippines.

This venue is definitely not for everyone and would be somewhat distasteful for many. But it is an anything goes kind of place with booze, music, girls and an unusual brand of entertainment if you are that way inclined.

What Happens at Ringside Bar?

The centerpiece of the entertainment is the boxing ring.

You will be treated to midget boxing, lady boxing and the occasional tag team match of jelly wrestling.

You can jump in the ring and referee the fight if you want to, but be prepared to shout all of the participants some expensive drinks for the privilege… If you do step into the ring remember to protect your nuts!

It is a place where almost anything goes.

If you tip big enough they will organize anything within reason.

The most unusual I have seen so far is one of the punters jumping in the ring to fight three midgets with one arm tied behind his back (I think he lost a bet in a group of rowdy Brits in the bar that night.

The only condition was that if he hurt one of the midgets the fight would be over.

The Moral Dilemma of Midget Boxing

Some may see this as a morally questionable form of entertainment.

You can argue that the activities exploit the handicapped and subjects them to indignity for the sake of our entertainment.

However, it is worth considering what the vertically challenged participants would be doing for work if it was not for this venue.

The Philippines is not the land of opportunity for everyone.  While it may not be the most pleasant way to make a living, it is still a living.

“Other Services” Offered

Like most venues in the vicinity, it is primarily a bar where the services of the working girls are offered.

The dancing girls in the ring between fights and hanging around the bar all have a price…. Or a bar fine as they put it.

The boxing is just to get punters in the door. Although I have found that if you do not show any interest in the girls then you will be left alone to have a few drinks and enjoy the spectacle in the ring.

A word of warning – The upstairs venue Mixed Nuts is a ladyboy bar.

You will have the odd worker join the dancing girls in Ringside attempting to blend in. So unless you are into that, keep an eye out for an Adam’s Apple, or some solid cheekbones. That dancing girl, may not be a girl after all.

If you are hosting some newcomers to the city it is always a good prank to take them upstairs, pretend to go to the bathroom, and just leave. Then count how long it takes for them to come running out the door.

The ladyboys are much more aggressive so it shouldn’t take long.

Ringside Fight Schedule

The frequency of fights generally depends on the night of the week and the crows in the venue.

Friday and Saturday nights are the busiest and they try and keep the crowd engaged with frequent battles taking place.

When the crowd is this you may only find a fight taking place every 30-60 minutes. With the inbetween filled in by the dancing girls in the ring.

There is no set schedule due to the fact that there is no genuine competition here. Some of the girls can get quite feisty, but it’s mostly just the same people on rotation heading into the ring.

Where is Ringside Bar

The venue is on the infamous P Burgos St, and on the corner of Kalayaan Av.

This is the center of the red light district in Poblacion, Makati.

Is it Worth a Visit?

While this may not be a venue suitable to become your regular hangout, it is still a fun place to knock back a few drinks.

The seedy undertones generally get the better of you in a couple of hours and it would be time to move on.

Not everyone would go there twice, but it is an interesting experience for visitors and local Filipinos alike.

Read More: 

• Soup for hangovers in the Philippines
• Dating as a white guy in the Philippines

You have a good variety of activities at your disposal that is a little different to the usual Philippines getaways.

You will find some awesome food, and some of the most beautiful scenery you will see anywhere in the world.

The character of the place, and the complete absence of any crowds when I visited made this at the top of my list for favorite trips in the Philippines.

Gota Village Caramoan

We stayed at Gota Village, which is the same place where the Survivor series was filmed back in 2012.

The resort has two sections. The main section is where the reception area and cabins are located just a small distance from the beach.

The second is just around a small headland that requires a short boat ride to reach.

On arrival you have a row of cottages on the water, and what was at the time our own private beach. Perfect!

Waking up each morning to the sunrise over the bay is one of the more memorable experiences of my time in the Philippines.

Being alone on the beach in such a beautiful place is one of those magic moments that you wish you could freeze and take with you.

I will have to settle for a photo on a cheap camera.

When staying in such an isolated section of the resort you are at the mercy of the surrounding swell.

The kitchen is in the other section of the resort and meals need to be transported over. If the waves are high then the boat cannot make it. We had our dinner delayed a few hours while they waited for calmer waters.

So make sure you pack a few emergency snacks just in case, and don’t order anything that will not still be good cold.

The beach itself is not great for swimming. There are a few too many weeds close to shore. You can still paddle around in the shallows if you want to though.

One of my travel buddies was very adamant on having crab for dinner. On the first night, they said they didn’t have any, but we could order for the following day which would give them time to catch them.

The staff were very accommodating. I did feel bad that we were the only ones there.

While we were outside drinking they were not able to leave us. So they just sat there waiting for us to order one drink after the other.

Activities

Underground River – Swimming Only!

This is a different beast to the tourist conveyor belt that is Palawan. This is a small cave that runs deep underground and at times will be inches above your head. No boats will fit down here, so it is life jackets on as you float into the darkness.

You could drive past his and never know that it is there. We parked the van seemingly in the middle of nowhere and walked into the backyard of someone’s farmhouse. There was a small creek with a narrow crack leading to the cave. It is a leap of faith just getting past the entrance, but the kids playing around in the creek gave me some confidence that it was at least safe to jump in the water.

The terrain underwater is as inconsistent as the ceiling of the cave. To avoid cutting yourself on jagged rocks you have to lay as flat as you can as you paddle into the depths.

I was amazed at how far you venture into this cave. It is a solid 20 minutes to the end, and another 20 to get back. It is a test of your nerve at times. If the lights go out you would lose all orientation very quickly and you may never get out. The water also gets very cold the deeper you go.

This is at the top of the list as it is the absolute must do activity when you visit Caramoan. A fun and very unique experience.

Rock Climbing

rock climbing caramoanThis one is much more of a physical test than it looks. You climb a sheer rock face just near the beach at the main section of the resort. The face wouldn’t be any more than 5-10 metres, but unless you are a seasoned climber expect your forearms to ache and your hands to be missing skin when you get to the top.

Hiking/Abseiling

We didn’t have time for this one unfortunately. The giant cliff overlooking the resort would be a challenging hike with a spectacular view at the top. They did mention abseiling, but I do not know if this was serious or they were trying to scare us. The sheer drop down the face of this cliff would make anyone’s knees shake. I would give it a go, but I was relieved not to.

Island hopping

The standard activity all around the Philippines! There are frequent stops for snorkeling and each island has something different.

You can climb up some endless stairs to a mountain top chapel which gives you a spectacular view across the collection of islands.

A big sandbar which makes for a great lunch spot (sit at a floating table for a fee of course)

Plus some very quirky islands with beaches in every direction.

This part of the country is facing the ocean so expect a bumpier ride than your standard island hopping trip. Especially late in the afternoon when the waves can pick-up. It was touch and go whether we would make it back to our accommodation at all at one stage.

The Travel

As with most things around the Camarines area you have to put in some serious hours to get there.

We flew to Naga, then a van ride of a couple of hours, followed by a two hour boat ride.

Pretty standard for most destinations in the Philippines. It was more comfortable than most journeys though with plenty of space on the boat and great views the whole way.

The boat ride home ended in one of the more creative docks I have seen. Again you need to pay a fee to use this.

You will struggle to fit this one into a standard weekend, but why would you want to? A long three day weekend is fine, four days would be better. I took this trip a few years ago now and I think we paid about p11k per person all inclusive for flights, transfers, accommodation, and the activities. Pretty amazing value when you consider the quality of accommodation we had.

We did this trip in late January. This was obviously not peak season and I would recommend it if you are not big on crowds… which are hard to avoid pretty much anywhere you go.

I was told that they will always try to rip me off because I am a foreigner.

On my first night out here that is exactly what happened. But this was through my own stupidity more than anything.

Scammed on Day One

To give you the gist of the story I made the following mistakes:

• I was noticeably drunk.
• I asked how much the fare would be rather than just getting in and starting the meter.
• When asking about the fare I said I was going to a hotel, another indicator that I had zero experience in the Philippines.
• The meter then started at the agreed fare (p500), and went up from there (approx. p700).
• I was comparing the amount to Australian dollars and despite the excessively high fare it was still a reasonable price in comparison. A $20 cab fare home isn’t that bad in Australia.

So the outcome was I paid about p700 for a fare that should have been about p120 on a normal day.

It is embarrassing to admit now, and I have a good laugh about it. I have no one to blame but myself though and I really invited the guy to do what he did through my naivety.

While my first experience was not good, this was the only time that I let this happen to me.

Taxi Drivers are Mostly Honest

For the record, I think the vast majority of taxi drivers are decent and honest people.

I have dealt with probably 100+ in my five years in the Philippines and I would guess that only about 20% of the drivers are looking to rip you off.

You can usually spot them a mile away.

Easy Ways to Spot a Dodgy Taxi Driver

1. “Where Are You Going?”

If a taxi driver slows down to pick you up and asks you through the window where you are going, don’t bother. Let them go.

More often than not you will be offered a fixed fare that is two or three times the metered fare.

2. “Trapik Trapik”

If you get in a taxi and when say your destination they start complaining about traffic in that direction, best to just get out and find another taxi.

They will sit there complaining about traffic and say they will take you for a certain number, or meter plus extra.

I get annoyed very quickly at these people so I just get out before being drawn into a pointless argument.

It is Manila, show me one place that doesn’t have fucking traffic!

3. Forgetting to Turn on the Meter

This is the most common way to get a higher fare out of the passenger. Just forget to turn on the meter.

Most will turn on the meter without a fuss if you remind them. So this is an easy one to get around.

If they don’t turn it on though you are leaving yourself open to them making up whatever number they feel like at the other end and you will have little option than to pay up.

2 Meter Tampering Scams

1. Accelerated Cost Accumulation

Unless you have experience catching taxis in the relevant city, and have a feel for what a fair rate is, you will have trouble spotting this scam before it’s too late.

I have encountered this once in a yellow airport taxi.

This had always been the most reliable and safest type of taxi available in the Philippines. So this scam took me by surprise!

These taxis are already more expensive but this is made worthwhile by the convenience factor in the airport.

Previously I had made dozens and dozens of trips from the airport to the city so I knew exactly what my fare should cost.

My regular trip in the yellow metered taxi would usually be somewhere between p280 and p350 depending on traffic.

Given that I have never had a problem with these taxis I just wasn’t paying attention to the meter. By the time we got off the skyway on the Makati exit, I was surprised to see the meter at p380!

I thought that maybe they had just put the rates up.

We hit some traffic and without moving more than 50 metres the price had climbed to p400. At this rate I was looking at a p1,000+ fare! So I had to say something.

The driver did not argue at all when I asked if his meter was broken. He just asked what I normally pay, we agreed on that, and the meter was turned off.

After sitting in Makati Av traffic for 15 minutes he then asked for more.

I did not engage in that conversation. I just looked at him in the rear vision mirror, shook my head and said I should be reporting him.

The scam was not very sophisticated, just a bit of meter tampering. To anyone who had not taken this trip before though they would never know they were paying two to three times the standard fare.

But people figure it out eventually and scamming new arrivals is a bad first impression for a country to make.

2. Manually Boosting the Fare

This one probably doesn’t count as meter tampering, but the other trick I have seen is just hitting a button on the meter that adds to the total.

There may be legit uses for this, like adding tolls to the fare. So just keep an eye on this and don’t be afraid to question what they are doing.

Bonus Tip to Avoid Taxi Scams

Learn some basic Tagalog!

If you can at least give the impression that you are not a tourist it will discourage 90% of the scams out there.

Helpful phrases to use:

• Magandang umaga/hapon/gabi – Good morning/afternoon/evening
• Kumusta ka – How are you?
• Hey Kuya – Hey brother!

Saying any of these when you get in the taxi will go some way to discouraging any scammy tactics.

Ridesharing Apps

When I originally wrote this post I was singing the praises of ride-sharing apps.

Since then Uber has been all but driven out of the country after a series of run-ins with the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board which led to suspensions and massive fines.

This led to Uber selling their local operation to Grab creating a near monopoly in the local market. Much to the detriment of long suffering commuters.

Uber was by far a better user experience on the app, better vehicles, cheaper and more reliable.

Grab

My experience with Grab is somewhat dated now. But I will share my experience anyway.

I was a daily customer for about a year back in 2015. This was until their fares escalated to the point where the same ride on Uber was half the price.

Initially, a Grab Car was about the same price as a taxi. The fare was calculated as the meter, plus a booking fee.

The booking fee changed frequently and moved up from p40 to p70. Which was already higher than a regular taxi – if you could get one!!

So the fare became uncompetitive.

The fare then continued to climb to p140, p150, p160…. then it seemed to stay at the p170+ mark.

When compared to a p80 Uber trip it made the choice to switch very easy.

So over to Uber I went, and I was a devout fan for the rest of my time there. But they are no more.

At Least You Have Choice

If you are willing to pay up you can avoid having to stand on the side of the road for hours in rush hour trying to wave down a taxi.

You also have the additional protection of driver profiles in the app which reduces the temptation for scams to creep in.

There are still some drivers who are just plain assholes, but it is a minor occasional annoyance. And you can leave them feedback reporting this.

Final Word

As is the case all over much of the world, taxis offer a second rate service compared to rideshare apps. So your best protection against taxi scams is to just not use them.

This is unfortunate for the many good trustworthy drivers out there.

I hope they find their way over to these new services and contribute there.

As for those who make a living taking advantage of people, there is no room for your antics in the new age of transport. I will have no sympathy for any hardships you endure as a result.

Read more:

• Being a single white guy in the Philippines
• The culture of gossip in the Philippines
• Manila’s pollution and the Jeepney

In a country where so many getaways are difficult to access, the relatively advanced infrastructure (I use the term loosely) makes it an accessible weekend destination.

But it is also somewhere you could happily stay for a week enjoying all the activities on offer.

I have visited Boracay at least ten times over the years for these reasons. It was an easy break from the concrete jungle of Manila.

So I have put together this detailed post to try and share as much of the knowledge I have gathered over the years, and give you a head start when planning your holiday.

This is a long post so use the menu below to jump ahead to the section that interests you the most.

Realistic Expectations

Boracay is a stunning place and I have always loved coming here. But any natural wonders that you are seeking are likely to be diminished from what they once were.

Over the years the commercial invasion of the island has been well known – and that is half the appeal of the modern Boracay experience.

The over-development and exploitation of the island came to a head in 2019 when it was closed to tourists for six months (a complete overreaction in my opinion and a decision made with very little planning or long term objectives – but don’t get me started on that).

The new Boracay is (apparently) all about responsible and sustainable management of tourism. Which is of course, a good thing.

But you cannot escape the fact that while swimming in glowing turquoise waters you will be staring back at a beachfront Starbucks.

I guess my point is that if you are looking for unspoiled island beauty then you will find plenty of options elsewhere.

If you can accept Boracay for what it is then you will find a destination that is purpose built for the modern tourist (with a hint of Philippines thrown in).

While this is not unique on a list of global tourism hot spots it is actually unique for the Philippines.

Other islands in the Philippines are mostly less developed, have no nightlife, have poor accessibility but will be a much more cultural experience.There are also plenty of unusual experiences to be found elsewhere that are exclusively Filipino.

Modern Boracay doesn’t pretend to be any of these things.

It is the only local destination that offers natural beauty, relatively convenient infrastructure, good food, good nightlife and plenty of decent accommodation to fit any budget.

It is just a fun place for a relaxing and/or action packed holiday.

The Boracay Lifestyle

You have so many options to choose from that the island allows you to be as active or inactive as you like.

Boracay offers water and land activities that are great fun! My first visit there was quite active and I had a great time trying out the various activities.

Every other visit I have taken the laid back route and just enjoyed the water, food, and sunshine… With an afternoon nap whenever I feel like it.

Where to Stay

Boracay is covered in hotels, and half of them seem to be under a constant state of renovation. So if you can find a modern (and complete!) hotel, near the water, for a reasonable price, then you are sure to have a good experience.

The main beach is broken up into four stations which helps you get an easy read on the location when skimming for a deal.

I have included comments on some of the hotels that I would recommend for each station aside from Station 4 – because I have never stayed there.

Station 1

This is located at the northern end of the island and is where you will find the five star hotels, and a handful of four star.

If you are chasing luxury then this is where you would stay. But unless you want to have a hotel resort experience, where 90% of your time is spent within the hotel then I wouldn’t bother.

The cost is not worth it if you are always out.

But, there are some stunning hotels here with beachfront views, exclusive beach beds, swimming pools and restaurants that can make it needless to go anywhere else.

Not exactly an authentic Philippines experience, but hey, not a bad way to spend a few days.

Station 2 & 3

I have lumped these together as they sit in the central part of White Beach on either side of the main D-Mall.

This is where most of the action is, and has been my go to for all but one trip.

You will be surrounded by plenty of bars, restaurants, hotels and shops. It is also the starting point for most of the water sports.

The price point of the hotels is mid range and the majority are three and four star. You will find some decent budget options too and a handful of hostels.

Middle of the beach, mid price point, middle class people… you get the idea.

If you are traveling with a group of 3-4 people and splitting the cost then a hotel will be as cheap as many in station 4.

Hey Jude – Well Located Budget Hotel

Located right in the center of D-Mall, you cannot get a more convenient location at a bargain-basement price.

The hotel is old and does not have any fancy inclusions like pools, room service or anything like that.

But the rooms are large, nice enough, and the price is very cheap.

Blue Marina – Well Located Mid Range Hotel

This is a much smaller place and hidden in a back alley, and has a feel like you are staying at someone’s house.

It calls itself Station 2, but this is definitely in the Station 3 region. So more of a walk to get back to where the action is.

The rooms are basic but adequate. You will spend most of your time outside anyway and this offers a nice clean option to come home to.

Tides Hotel – Rooftop Pool & Bar

You have a few tiers of room quality to pick from, but all have a nice clean and new feel about it.

The rooftop pool is a highlight. There are day bed, a bar, and relaxed music being played to create a nice atmosphere when you want to get away from the crowds.

Boracay Summer Palace – Stunning Pool!

My stay here was a strange one due to a typhoon that rolled in halfway through the weekend.

The swimming pool area is spectacular. I just didn’t use it – for obvious reasons.

The only thing I didn’t like about this hotel was the alleyway you had to walk down to get to the entrance.

If you recall my story from the Massage section earlier…. This is that alleyway.

Station 4

This is where you will find the cheaper accommodation of the four areas.

You will not find anything too flashy here, but it is perfectly fine if you just want somewhere to sleep.

Maybe pay a little more attention to the cleanliness of the hotel in reviews prior to booking your hotel. But the vast majority are normal hotels.

I have never actually stayed at Station 4 so I have no personal recommendations. My comments here are based on the many people I have spoken to who have stayed here.

Choose carefully and read reviews and you can find a decent stay for cheap here.

Beachfront Hotels

No matter what station you are staying in the view of the water will be just as magical.

You can find some great value hotels with water views from your balcony.

The value in these since the recent crackdown on drinking on the beach has increased if you want to have a quiet beer while you watch the spectacular sunset.

Victory Divers Beach Resort – Affordable Beachfront Hotel

This is one of the cheapest hotels where your balcony overlooks the beach.

The rooms are large and fairly old, but comfortable and the view amazing.

Perfect for those looking to scuba dive. Navigating all the gear at the entrance can be a challenge for those not so inclined.

Boracay Uptown – Rooftop Swimming Pool Overlooking Beach

It is hard to miss the colorful façade of the building, and if you have ever been tp Sparros then you will know where I am talking about.

The swimming pool area sits on the rooftop and overlooks the water in what is one of the more impressive spots on the island.

The price is higher but still manageable for such a great location.

Restaurants

You will find restaurants all along the beachfront and in D-Mall.

Fresh seafood features heavily but it is expensive compared to D’Talipapa Market (more on this later). But you are paying for a more upmarket restaurant experience.

You will find all kinds of cuisine on offer. If you wander around you will find something to suit your mood.

If you are looking for cheaper options then just venture back from the beach and walk along the main road. Here you will find plenty of typical Filipino styles restos.

The quality of food is fine and you can have a decent meal for p100.

At the opposite end you will find most of your western favorites here; McDonalds, Subway, Starbucks, KFC, Pizza Hut etc.

So I wanted to mention a few that sit somewhere in the middle that are worth visiting:

Jonah’s Fruit Shake & Snack Bar

• Location: Beachfront – Station 1
• From D-Mall: 15 minute walk north
• Great for: Breakfast & lunch

This is the go to restaurant for fruit shakes and I make a point of getting one every day!

The banana choc, or the avocado shakes (which are rarely available) are excellent! I would also recommend the watermelon shake as a good hangover cure.

A mid morning visit fruit shake, followed by a swim right out the front of the restaurant is a good lead in to lunch if you wanted to hang around.

They do an exceptional sinigang!

Mesa Filipino Moderne

• Location: Beachfront – Station 2
• From D-Mall: 5 minute walk south
• Great for: Lunch/Dinner

Mesa aims to be an upmarket Filipino restaurant. It is not fine dining by any stretch, but good hearty Filipino food.

Just about every local dish that you could think of is on the menu.

Don Vito Ristorante

• Location: Beachfront – Station 2
• From D-Mall: 5 minute walk south (if you get to Mesa, you have gone too far)
• Great for: Lunch (pizza) and Dinner (seafood)

This is located at the front of the Mandarin Hotel and has seating inside the restaurant, outside near the pool area, and beachfront.

The menu is a mix of classic Italian dishes with some half decent pizza and salads.

If you are in a seafood mood they also have the fresh seafood displays available if you wish to select your meal here.

At night there is usually some live entertainment with a relaxing vibe that makes it a nice place to sit for dinner and a few drinks.

The hotel swimming pool outside the restaurant is the most refreshing thing you will see on a hot day or night.

The way the waterfall flows alongside the dining area just screams jump in me! (which I did once when walking past at 2am and was promptly told to leave by the on-site security guard).

Sea Breeze Café

• Location: Beachfront – Station 2
• From D-Mall: 5 minute walk south (just past Mesa)
• Great for: Lunch (pizza) and Dinner (seafood)

This is a buffet style restaurant where the food looks better than it tastes.

I am not a big fan of the place but it is worth a mention purely for the dancing chefs. Luckily you don’t have to eat there to see them.

After dinner just go to a bar nearby and when its showtime you are free to walk over and watch the spectacle.

This happens a couple of times a night and is entertaining for a few minutes.

D’Talipapa (Wet Market) – Bonus Food Tip!

I wanted to include this as it was my favorite part of the Boracay experience. But unfortunately the D’Talipapa complex was damaged by fire in 2017 and closed down.

A new market has opened up near Station 3 called Tindahan it Boracay. I have not yet had a chance to try it but I would assume it to offer much of the same thing.

I made a daily trip to D’Talipapa in the mid afternoon for a big feast of lobster, prawns (shrimp), crab, squid, or anything else I felt like on the day.

Sounds expensive right?

In my experience, two to four people could eat until they drop for about p2,000 all up ($50 US) depending on what you buy.

Much cheaper than you will find at the waterfront restaurants!

Of course, you will have to haggle on price. Again the best tip here is to have a local negotiate on your behalf if you are traveling with one, or have met one along the way.

The market was surrounded by restaurants that cook up your recently purchased seafood for a couple of hundred pesos with your choice of sauce and rice included.

I am sure that some enterprising locals have setup similar offerings around the new market.

It was not a flashy experience in terms of your surroundings, but the food was amazing!

Boracay Activities

Here we will provide you with just an overview of what is on offer. As you can see there is a lot and it really needs it’s own post.

Be sure to check out our detailed post for a complete list of Boracay activities for all the details on each activity, and more!

Beaches

There are lots of beaches on the island. The majority of which get very few visitors.

They are all just a short tricycle ride away if you are in the mood to do some exploring.

1. White Beach – where all the action is!
2. Puka Shell Beach – northern tip of the island.
3. Ilig-Iiligan Beach – quiet and isolated island hideaway
4. Bulabog Beach – hub for water sports

Water Activities

There is a long list of water sports and you will see both White Beach and Bulabog beach a hype of activity every day, and into the evening with these activities:

1. FlyFish
2. Banana Boat
3. Parasailing
4. Sailing
5. Cliff jumping
6. Helmet Diving
7. UFO Ride
8. Snorkeling
9. Paddle Boarding
10. Jet Skiiing
11. Mermaid Swimming
12. Island Hopping
13. Fishing
14. Scuba Diving
15. Glass Bottom Boating
16. Aqua Fun recreation Park
17. Kite surfing
18. Wind Surfing
19. Wakeboarding

Land Activities

Plenty on offer for those who prefer dry land. This list is excluding nightlife – which we will get to shortly.

1. ATV Tour
2. Tindahan it Boracay (Wet) Market
3. Regular Markets
4. Shopping in D-mall
5. Rock Climbing
6. Massage
7. Zorba
8. Reverse Bungee (p1,700)
9. Golf

Nightlife

The nightlife is the best you will find on a Filipino island. But this is mostly because other islands have none!

The bars can be very hit & miss. One night a venue will be buzzing with people and have a packed dance floor, with great tunes playing.

The next it will be deserted with cheesy garbage blaring through the speakers.

Best to not get attached to any one spot and float around until you find a vibe that you enjoy.

There are countless quiet bars along the beachfront area. Those mentioned below are more geared towards the party side of things.

Wave Bar & Lounge

This is my favorite bar as it has a few options for your surroundings, and probably the only place with a bit of class (the indoor part anyway).

There is an upstairs area with bar, dance floor and gets a pretty good atmosphere when it draws a crowd.

If it doesn’t the pub crawl will roll in at some stage and the place will be packed for half an hour.

Downstairs is an outdoor bar, and across from there, you can sit on the beach area.

Epic Boracay

This venue sits right at the entrance to D-Mall facing the beach.

During the day it is a restaurant, and by night it transforms into a bar with loud music playing.

The layout is very open and faces the beach. Seating outside closer to the water is also available here if you need some quiet time.

This is usually the last place that is open and can become a bit trashy in the early morning hours.

A walk into the darkness in either direction will also probably lead to some kind of approach from a hooker – both female and shemale.

Pub Crawl

If you are traveling solo then this is your best chance to find a group of people to drink with for the night.

You will visit four to five bars on the night and will have the chance to get loose with a new group of people every night.

Always good for a laugh.

We also have detailed the epicness of the Boracay pub crawl in a separate post.

Fire Dancers

These guys will show up to many of the restaurants and bars up and down the beach, and will likely wow you on your first visit.

But the more you see them they can actually become quite annoying.

The skill level they show is impressive and the novelty of having someone twirl flames inches from your head, or land a flaming ball in your lap for a second definitely has the shock value.

Of course, they will want tips for the show – which is fair when you want it. When you don’t they will hang around longer and sweat all over you.

Safety & Legal Risks

Boracay is generally a safe place and as long as you behave yourself it is easy to stay out of trouble.

Many laws were given an overhaul after the reopening of the island in late 2019 so you may want to ask on arrival if you have any concerns.

Laws are often selectively enforced throughout the Philippines you can expect that little leniency will be shown to a foreigner, and any concessions will cost you a ton.

Aside from all the usual precautions, you should take when engaging in water sports and swimming there are a few additional things that you should be wary of on the island.

Prostitution

This is a big industry on the island, but not on the same scale as you will find in other tourism hot spots.

So it is easy to ignore and does not pose a threat of any kind.

However, there are a number of scams attached to illegal prostitution in the Philippines. If you choose to get involved you are putting yourself in a vulnerable position.

Theft

Instances of theft are fairly low here and the same common sense you would apply anywhere is adequate.

Two pieces of advice here:

• Don’t get drunk and fall asleep on the beach at night.
• Try not to leave valuables on the beach when swimming.

Drugs

The current Government has taken a very hard line on drugs and is something that any foreigner should avoid at all costs.

Drinking & Smoking

Since the closure of the island in 2019 drinking and smoking on the beach is now banned.

This limits what was once a very open attitude towards these activities and you should look for updated guidance on the current rules on arrival.

DIY vs Travel Packages

Boracay is such an easy destination to travel to that I would always recommend that people DIY.

Plus I think it is important to have control over the hotel accommodation that you stay in. There are so many to choose from and the quality varies a lot!

However, the domestic packages on offer are great value! Airfares, transfers, and hotels for as low as p7,000 ($160) for a two night stay.

These will be very basic, but they are more than adequate for a fun weekend!

DIY Boracay Travel Guide

Flights

Via Caticlan

Caticlan is right near the port. Just a two minute tricycle ride.

It is a small airport with limited capacity so you will find that the flights here can be expensive – especially for the Caticlan -> Manila leg of the journey.

It will save you a stack of time though so check the price of flights anyway. You can get lucky from time to time.

Via Kalibo

This route is much cheaper and therefore much more popular.

Kalibo is about 45 minutes from the docks ate Caticlan and there are transport options running constantly between the two. Your options are:

• Bus – The buses are nice and air conditioned. It is a slower trip but it is cheap and comfortable.
• Van – It is slightly faster, but very cramped and uncomfortable. Unless you are in a hurry stick to the bus.
• Private car – this is up for negotiation and a fair price is p1,000. If you have people to split the cost with, do it! Best money you will spend on this journey.

Once you come out of the airport there will be desks everywhere selling tickets to the desired option.

Boat (Caticlan -> Port)

The whole terminal experience is the perfect case study in inefficiency that plagues the Philippines (but at least it provides a few extra jobs).

If you are a first time visitor you won’t care but by the tenth visit, it does get a little trying.

The ticketing process will take you to multiple windows to pay the plethora of fees

• Boat ticket
• Terminal Fee
• Environmental fee

All I am happy to pay, but one window/payment/ticket would surely achieve the same!

The closure of the island in 2019 for environmental reasons makes you wonder where the proceeds of this environmental fee have gone over the years…. But I digress.

You then walk through an airport like security process with bag screening. The only difference is that no one is really looking at x-ray footage, or checking bags at all.

But someone does stand there making sure everyone walks through the little gate.

From there you have to fill out a form at a wide desk with your name, nationality, hotel stay address and a few other things.

To this day I don’t really know why…. But just smile and get it over with.

Then you proceed to a gate where someone rips off one of your three tickets. Then to another gate where someone rips the next ticket.

After a short wait for the next available boat, you then have another ticket ripped upon boarding.

Warning: Your bags may be placed on the roof of the boat. They do cover them but if there is rain they will get wet.

Before the boat leaves everyone has to put on a life jacket (a relatively new rule after an accident took place) and sign a waiver form (another form!).

This all takes much longer than you would expect and it is a relief to finally pull away from the dock for the boat ride.

Which will take all of five minutes!

Tricycle (Port -> Hotel)

Once you get off the boat there will be a line of tricycles waiting to take you to your hotel.

This will be the most expensive tricycle you will pay for on this trip (by a long way) but the fares are standardized (p120-p150)so you can have some confidence that you are not being ripped off.

You can fit up to four people and luggage on a tricycle – but don’t expect a comfortable ride if you do!

The journey should take 10-20 minutes depending on which end of the island you are staying.

Sometimes longer if there is traffic and/or a flooded road. This happens a lot!

Final Word

What I love about Boracay is the freedom to do as much or as little as you feel like it on the day.

There are so many possible activities that you will not get bored. But I found that most days I opted to eat, drink, and swim.

It is a relaxing tropical atmosphere that is a great escape from everyday life, that comes with most of the comforts that a westerner would be used to.

Do not expect this to be an authentic cultural Filipino experience. It is a tropical paradise that has been overrun with commerce – but it is what it is and I have always enjoyed visiting the island.

I have done both and Donsol is the clear winner, and is without a doubt my favorite activity in the Philippines.

You get a much more authentic experience in the Donsol whale shark interaction, and the experience is about far more than your whale shark encounter alone.

A More Rewarding Whale Shark Encounter

There is no feeding to lure the whale sharks in here like in Cebu.

You have to get out there and find the butanding swimming around the bay and hope they stay near the surface long enough for you to get close.

The waiting and the anticipation that can go on for hours while you are searching the bay for a whale shark.

Your work is only just beginning once in the water. It is easy to get disorientated or for the animal to get spooked and head for the depths.

You have to keep your composure and awareness levels high to get your big moment!

Why is Donsol Different?

There are two trade offs that you need to accept if you come to Donsol instead of Cebu.

No Guaranteed Sighting

The first is that you are not guaranteed to spot any whale sharks. There is a possibility that you will spend three hours in a boat moving up and down the bay and find nothing.

I have experienced this once out of five morning on the water. While disappointing it is still not a bad way to send the day.

However, it is the waiting and the uncertainty that is what builds the anticipation and adrenaline rush when you hear the spotter scream out “Butanding” and point to a big dark shadow moving through the water.

When the big moment arrives you rush around the boat to find your flippers and snorkel that you had grown complacent with in the preceding hours.

As you rush to get ready the crew position the boat ahead of the whale sharks path, and the guide gives you the signal to jump in the water.

When you bring your head up it is a tense and frantic moment as you try to find the guide and swim over to him.

There is a lot happening around you, but it is important to keep your composure and relax in the water so you have the awareness to follow the guides instructions.

The guide takes you off into the open water, stops, points and yells “over here, over here!!”

Now is your chance! With any luck he will swim right by you. Being this close to such a large and wild animal is an amazing experience and once you do it once you will be hooked.

They move rather slowly through the water, so if you are a half decent swimmer you can dive down and swim alongside them for as long as you can hold your breath.

An awesome feeling to be swimming along next to a 25-30 foot whale, with a few babies in tow.

Murky Water

The second trade off is that the water is not as clear as it is in Cebu… The murky water is kind of the point though.

This is why the Butanding is here in the first place! Amongst all those floating organisms is their primary source of food; plankton.

There are fluctuations in the visibility and most of the time it is fine, but it can add to the disorientation that you may feel once in the water on a bad day.

I have experienced a day of poor visibility once, and it was difficult to see the whale shark until I was just a few feet away.

Swimming along you could see nothing and then out of nowhere this wall of animal just appeared in front of me!

On other days you can see them from a fair distance away.

This is certainly a much more comfortable situation to be in if you have that buffer zone of a few meters, and also ensures compliance with the local rules surrounding your interaction.

Experience over Instagram

If you value the perfect pic over the experience itself then Donsol is not for you.

All of the above means you will not get a clear pic of you posing in crystal blue waters in front of an impressive herd of whale sharks.

Unless you get very lucky with the conditions your pics will look more like this…

But nothing can compare to the feeling of finding and swimming next to these magnificent beasts.

That is a feeling you can not share no matter how your picture looks.

Where to Stay in Donsol

Back on the mainland, you have a choice of just a handful of hotels that are near the launch point for the Whale Shark Encounters.

Elysia Beach Resort

This is my top pick. The rooms are modern and clean, and there are not too many in the complex.

The grounds are very well kept which makes for some very relaxing surroundings.

The hammocks and huts on the beach are a great place to relax and have a beer. However, the best thing about this place is the restaurant.

Every dish is exceptional and reasonably priced. There are some unique and imaginative cocktails on the menu also.

Vitton Beach Resort

I have also stayed at the Vitton Beach Resort after Elysia was temporarily closed due to typhoon damage. The complex is a bit older, but the rooms and facilities are nice enough.

The family rooms right on the water are quite nice and have a good balcony to watch the sunsets from.

The restaurant I thought let this pace down though. The serving sizes are small, the serving time incredibly long, and the food quality does not match the price.

You will also have one or more dogs constantly annoying you while eating.  This is not something you will encounter at Elysia.

But the view of the bay is equally stunning at sunset.

Other Donsol Activities

While in town check out the firefly tour at night. Even if its not your thing, go anyway.

I had no real expectations and just went because there wasn’t anything else to do in the evening. It was again one of the coolest things I have seen in my time in the Philippines.

You have the option to go on a dinner cruise on a larger barge type boat. I would recommend the more personal option of the smaller boat for just a couple of people.

You get a much more intimate experience with the fireflies and can also learn more from your guide as you are pretty much one on one.

Be Careful at Night

One final word of warning, be careful walking along the main road at night.

We found out the hard way that there are some fairly aggressive and unrestrained guard dogs outside the houses along the street, as well as any number of street dogs.

Do yourself a favour and either take a tricycle everywhere after dark, or just walk along the beach… This is a challenge at high tide, but better to get wet then bitten by a stray dog.

Read more:

• Best islands in the Philippines
• Where to stay on Boracay Island