Let’s plan your trip
Tell us where you’re coming from, how many people are joining, and how long you’re staying. We’ll estimate your Boracay trip from airport transfers to beach activities, including a day-by-day itinerary.
See your routes, travel budget, activities, and suggested daily itinerary.
Getting to Boracay
Compare routes through Caticlan and Kalibo, plus mainland transport where relevant. The transport prices below include estimated airport or mainland transfers, while mandatory jetty fees appear separately in your budget.
Choose your Boracay experiences
Select the activities you’re interested in. We’ll add their estimated costs and fit them into the itinerary where your trip length allows.
Your suggested travel budget
The estimate includes round-trip travel, island-crossing fees, accommodation, meals, local transportation, selected activities, and a 10% cushion.
Where your money goes
Foreign visitors generally pay a higher environmental fee. The calculator uses the Filipino visitor baseline, so foreign travelers should allow approximately ₱150 more per person. Discounts and exemptions may apply. Fees and ports can change.
Check the latest charges or available prepayment options through Boracay iPass . If your hotel or transfer package already includes the fees, avoid paying for the same charges twice.
Your days in Boracay
A suggested itinerary based on your chosen activities, with time for White Beach, quieter areas, and your arrival and departure transfers.
Copy the estimated budget and itinerary or save a printable version.
Travel planning note: These are illustrative estimates, not live flight fares, hotel rates, transfer quotations, or tour prices. Port charges, weather conditions, operator availability, and seasonal restrictions may affect actual costs. The itinerary assumes accommodation on Boracay Island, around the White Beach or Bulabog area.
You don’t need a packed schedule to enjoy Boracay. Some trips are all about White Beach and sunsets, while others leave room for island hopping, water activities, and quieter beaches. Here are four ways I’d plan the trip depending on how much time you have.
Ideal for a weekend getaway when your main goal is to unwind rather than see everything.
Stay near White Beach so you can explore more without relying on transport throughout the day.
A balanced trip with beaches, island hopping, one paid activity, and some downtime.
Keep arrival and departure days light and use the full middle days for boat tours and activities.
For travelers who want both the popular attractions and some slower days.
Group water activities on suitable weather days and keep one day flexible in case conditions change.
Best if you prefer a slower vacation with fewer activities per day.
Avoid filling every day with paid activities. Seven days gives you plenty of time to enjoy the island at a gentler pace.
Small decisions that can make your Boracay trip easier.
Landing at Caticlan or Kalibo doesn’t mean you’re already at your hotel. Allow time for the jetty, boat crossing, and island transportation. Kalibo generally adds a much longer road journey.
White Beach is generally more sheltered during Amihan, while the Habagat season can bring rougher conditions along the western coast. Keep boat trips and water sports flexible, especially during rainy or windy periods.
Station 1 suits travelers who prefer a somewhat quieter White Beach setting. Station 2 is convenient for D’Mall and restaurants, while Station 3 can feel more relaxed in parts. Bulabog is useful for certain wind sports.
Walking along White Beach, watching the sunset, and enjoying a quiet beach day can be the best parts of a Boracay trip. Choose a few paid activities you genuinely want rather than booking everything.
That’s enough time for a proper White Beach experience, an island-hopping day, Puka Beach, and a sunset sail without feeling rushed. If I had only two days, I’d skip the long list of paid activities and focus on the beach. If I had a full week, I’d leave a couple of days completely open.
These are suggested itineraries, not fixed tour schedules. Boat routes, beach access, weather conditions, and available activities can change. Confirm details directly with local operators before booking.
Boracay is easy to explore once you’re on the island, but getting there involves a few steps. You’ll need to choose between Caticlan and Kalibo, arrange your boat crossing, and decide which part of the island suits your trip. I’ve gathered a few useful options below so you can compare them before making your bookings.
Compare airline options, arrival airports, and the final boat crossing to Boracay.
Most visitors fly into Caticlan Airport (MPH) or Kalibo International Airport (KLO). Caticlan is much closer to the jetty, while Kalibo involves a longer mainland road transfer. Flight availability depends on your departure city and dates.
After reaching Caticlan, visitors pay the applicable terminal, environmental, and boat fees before boarding. The public boat crossing generally takes around 10–15 minutes, followed by local transportation to your accommodation.
Depending on seasonal winds or sea conditions, departures may use a different port. Check current arrangements before traveling.
The jetty is only about 5–10 minutes away by tricycle or shuttle. After paying the required fees, board the boat to Boracay and take an e-tricycle or prearranged transfer to your hotel.
Allow around 1.5–2.5 hours for the road transfer to Caticlan, depending on traffic and transport. You’ll then complete the same jetty formalities, boat crossing, and final hotel transfer.
Cagban Port is a common arrival point on Boracay. E-tricycles and arranged vehicles serve hotels across the island. Confirm the fare and drop-off location before leaving the port.
Ask whether the transfer price includes airport pickup, port fees, boat tickets, luggage assistance, and the final ride to your property. Not every package includes all of these.
Good to know: Boracay does not have an airport on the island itself. Plan the complete journey, not just the flight. Also check whether your beachfront accommodation requires a short walk from the nearest vehicle drop-off point.
From social hostels and quieter guesthouses to beachfront resorts.
A sociable hostel near Station 1 offering shared and private rooms. It also organizes events and activities, making it a useful option for solo travelers and friends who enjoy meeting people.
Near White Beach, Station 1 View accommodation ↗A relaxed, garden-style accommodation close to Bulabog Beach. Options include dormitory beds and private rooms, with an on-site café. Worth considering if you prefer a quieter base away from the busiest part of White Beach.
Bulabog Beach, Balabag View accommodation ↗A beachfront hotel at Station 2 with an outdoor pool, restaurant, and convenient access to White Beach. Good for travelers who want restaurants and shops within easy walking distance.
White Beach, Station 2 View accommodation ↗A large beachfront resort with swimming pools, restaurants, and a spa. A good choice for families and groups who prefer plenty of resort facilities near central White Beach.
White Beach, Station 2 View accommodation ↗An upscale beachfront resort on Station 1, offering spacious rooms, swimming pools, dining, and wellness facilities. Worth comparing if you’d like a quieter beachfront location with additional comfort.
White Beach, Station 1 View accommodation ↗Useful for boat transfers, island hopping, and long days at the beach.
Useful for holding a change of clothes, a towel, and other small belongings on boat trips. Its IPX6 rating protects against splashes, but the bag must not be submerged.
View at Decathlon ↗A useful accessory for protecting a compatible phone from water during boat crossings and beach activities. Always test the seal before use and follow the manufacturer’s depth and usage limits.
View at Decathlon ↗A long-sleeved rash guard adds useful fabric coverage during swimming, snorkeling, or spending time in the sun. Pair it with sunscreen on exposed areas and take breaks in the shade.
View at Decathlon ↗Boracay is easy to enjoy once you’ve settled in, but a few practical details can make your trip smoother. From finding affordable meals and using e-tricycles to withdrawing cash, getting medical assistance, and understanding the island’s beach rules, here’s what I’d recommend knowing before you arrive. Open any section below for details.
01 / ISLAND FLAVORS Food & dining Affordable Filipino meals and restaurants worth spending a little more on
Boracay has plenty of beachfront restaurants, but you don’t need to spend heavily on every meal. Small eateries, food stalls, and restaurants along the main road can be more affordable than dining directly on White Beach.
A casual Filipino restaurant tucked into D’Mall’s market area. Known for rice meals, beef dishes, and filling portions, it’s worth considering when you want something straightforward rather than a beachfront dinner.
D’Mall, Station 2, Boracay Find on Google Maps ↗A popular local-style eatery serving Filipino comfort food, silog meals, and generous rice dishes. A useful option for travelers watching their daily food expenses.
Station 1 area, Boracay Find on Google Maps ↗A simple Filipino eatery offering breakfast plates, tapsilog, and other familiar rice meals. Worth checking if you’d prefer local food near the main road.
Station 2, Boracay Find on Google Maps ↗A beachfront restaurant at Coast Boracay known for breakfast, casual dining, Filipino-inspired dishes, and sunset views. A good option for a slower meal by the sea.
White Beach, Station 2 Find on Google Maps ↗A gastropub near White Beach serving international comfort food, seafood, and hearty meals. Worth comparing for a more relaxed sit-down dinner with friends or family.
White House Beach Resort, Station 1 Find on Google Maps ↗An upscale seafood restaurant at Shangri-La Boracay, known for its clifftop setting and ocean views. Best considered for a special dinner rather than everyday budget dining.
Shangri-La Boracay, Yapak Find on Google Maps ↗Dining tip: I wouldn’t spend my entire food budget on beachfront restaurants. Mix a few nicer meals with affordable local eateries. Check menus and service charges before ordering, and consider reserving ahead for popular sunset dining spots.
02 / STAY CONNECTED Internet & mobile data Mobile networks, hotel Wi-Fi, working remotely, and connectivity backups
Staying connected in Boracay is generally easier than on many smaller Philippine islands. Mobile service and hotel Wi-Fi are available across the main tourist areas, though speed and reliability depend on your exact location and provider.
Smart provides mobile service in Boracay, with coverage varying between hotels, busy commercial areas, and more secluded beaches. Check the current coverage map if mobile data is important.
Visit Smart ↗Globe is another mobile data option available on the island. Connection speeds can change during busy periods, inside some buildings, and while traveling offshore.
Visit Globe ↗Many hotels, resorts, and cafés provide Wi-Fi. If you’re attending video calls or working during your trip, ask your accommodation for a recent speed test before booking.
Save your hotel details, tour contact numbers, booking confirmations, and maps in advance. This is helpful if your mobile connection drops during transfers or boat activities.
Boracay can be convenient for remote work if you choose a property with reliable Wi-Fi, adequate workspace, and a suitable internet backup.
Don’t assume that a hotel advertising free Wi-Fi will support uninterrupted video calls. Ask about actual performance, power interruptions, and guest experience.
Connectivity tip: If you’re traveling from abroad, compare local SIM and eSIM options before arrival. Keep mobile data available for navigation, e-wallet payments, and contacting your hotel or driver.
03 / MONEY MATTERS ATMs & emergency cash Bank machines, cashless payments, money changers, and souvenir spending
Boracay has ATMs, bank branches, and money changers, particularly around Station 2, D’Mall, and parts of the main road. Cards and e-wallets are widely useful, but cash is still convenient for smaller vendors, transport, and certain activities.
BDO lists banking and ATM locations on Boracay, including Station 2 and CityMall. Check your card’s withdrawal limits and any ATM access charges.
Find BDO ATMs ↗BPI also lists ATMs around the island, including near D’Mall and other busy areas. Foreign cards may incur local ATM charges in addition to bank fees.
Find BPI ATMs ↗Other banks, including Metrobank and PNB, have listed Boracay locations. It’s useful to have an alternative ATM if your preferred machine is unavailable.
Explore nearby ATMs ↗Money changers are available around Boracay’s commercial areas. Compare the offered rate, service charges, and final amount before exchanging money. Use legitimate, established exchange businesses.
Find money changers ↗Many restaurants, shops, and service providers accept cashless payments, including cards or e-wallets. Smaller businesses may still prefer cash.
Keep a little cash on hand even when you plan to pay digitally. Mobile connectivity or payment terminals may occasionally fail.
GCash cash-out information ↗Cash tip: Withdraw some pesos before crossing to Boracay, particularly during holidays or peak travel dates. Smaller bills are useful for e-tricycles, market purchases, and tipping when appropriate.
D’Mall and other shopping areas offer shirts, bags, accessories, handcrafted products, and small gifts. If you enjoy shopping while traveling, set aside a separate allowance.
Suggested allowance: ₱1,000–₱2,500This is optional spending, not a mandatory trip expense. It isn’t included in the calculator’s core budget.
04 / MOVING AROUND Local transportation E-tricycles, island buses, walking routes, and boat transfers
Getting around Boracay is relatively straightforward. E-tricycles are a familiar choice for local journeys, and walking works well around White Beach. There’s also a hop-on hop-off bus service for traveling between different island areas.
Fare reminder: E-tricycle fares may differ between shared and chartered trips. Ask for the applicable posted fare or confirm the price with the driver before boarding. The amounts above are approximate travel references.
If your hotel is near Stations 1, 2, or 3, you may be able to walk to many restaurants, cafés, and shops.
Vehicle access doesn’t extend directly along the main beachfront. Some accommodations require a short walk from the nearest road or e-tricycle stop.
Puka Beach, Diniwid, and some of the island’s northern attractions are farther from central White Beach.
Allow time for transport and check whether the driver will be available for your return journey. Travel times can increase during busy periods.
05 / HEALTH & SAFETY Medical care & emergencies Emergency hotlines, island hospitals, clinics, and mainland referrals
Boracay has medical facilities on the island, including a government hospital and private health services. More complex medical emergencies may require referral to mainland Aklan. Save emergency information before your trip.
Formerly known as Boracay Island Municipal Hospital, this is a public hospital serving residents and visitors on the island. Call first for available services when the situation permits.
A private medical facility on the island. Contact the facility to confirm services, availability, and appropriate arrangements for your medical needs.
A mainland hospital that may be involved in medical referrals. Reaching it from Boracay requires an appropriate island-to-mainland transfer.
Private clinics and diagnostic providers operate on Boracay, including facilities around Bulabog and Balabag. These may be useful for non-emergency concerns, subject to their services and opening hours.
Find nearby clinics ↗For a swimming incident, alert the nearest lifeguard or trained responder immediately. For boat emergencies, notify your boat crew and contact emergency services.
Follow posted swimming flags, avoid restricted areas, and don’t enter rough water because other tourists appear to be swimming.
Health and safety tip: Keep your travel insurance details, medications, and emergency contact numbers readily available. For urgent emergencies, call 911 instead of relying on a general clinic listing. Reconfirm facility phone numbers before your trip.
06 / INSIDER KNOW-HOW Good to know before you go Beach rules, port registration, island seasons, and practical advice
Boracay may be one of the Philippines’ best-known beach destinations, but there’s more to a smooth trip than choosing a hotel. Here are a few things I recommend keeping in mind.
Smoking, littering, and drinking alcohol directly on designated beach areas are restricted. Authorities also regulate unauthorized structures and commercial activities along the shoreline.
Respect posted notices and use designated restaurant or business areas for activities that aren’t allowed directly on the beach.
Read DENR guidance ↗Boracay entry involves port formalities, applicable terminal and environmental fees, and boat tickets.
The Aklan government provides a LezzGo Boracay platform for visitor registration and fee payments. Save your registration QR code and payment confirmation.
Official LezzGo guide ↗Seasonal winds affect which parts of Boracay are more sheltered or suitable for different activities.
During Amihan, White Beach is often calmer than during Habagat periods, when the western coastline may experience stronger winds and waves. Conditions still vary from day to day.
Caticlan Airport is much closer to the main jetty used for Boracay transfers. Kalibo requires an additional road journey before the boat crossing.
A cheaper flight to Kalibo may still cost more overall once transfers and travel time are considered.
Station 1 is often chosen for its wider beach areas and more relaxed atmosphere. Station 2 is close to D’Mall, restaurants, and busy commercial areas.
Parts of Station 3 can feel quieter and offer a different selection of stays. Check each hotel’s exact location before making a reservation.
Island hopping, parasailing, paraw sailing, and other activities depend on weather, wind, and operator availability.
If you’re staying several days, keep some flexibility in case an excursion needs to move. Choose permitted operators and follow their safety instructions.
Avoid taking sand, shells, corals, or marine animals as souvenirs. Don’t step on coral or disturb marine life during snorkeling excursions.
Dispose of waste properly and follow your operator’s environmental guidelines. Keeping Boracay clean helps protect the beaches everyone comes to enjoy.
My planning tip: I’d keep at least one afternoon unplanned. Boracay is the kind of destination where a simple beach walk, a long lunch, or watching the sunset can be just as enjoyable as a full schedule of paid activities.
Restaurant operations, mobile coverage, ATM availability, transport fares, medical contacts, beach rules, and visitor requirements may change. Confirm current information with the relevant provider or local authority before relying on it. For immediate emergencies, contact emergency services directly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Planning a Boracay Trip
Still figuring out the details of your Boracay getaway? Here are answers to some common questions about travel expenses, transportation, accommodations, island entry requirements, and making the most of your stay.
How much should I budget for a Boracay trip?
Your total budget depends on where you’re traveling from, how many people are joining, your hotel, and the activities you choose. As a rough guide, a budget-conscious traveler sharing accommodation might allow around ₱2,000–₱3,000 per person per day for island expenses, excluding flights and major paid activities.
For a more personalized estimate, use the Boracay calculator above. It considers your starting location, preferred route, group size, accommodation, meals, port fees, transportation, and selected activities.
How many days are enough to explore Boracay?
Four to five days is a comfortable starting point for first-time visitors. It gives you time to enjoy White Beach, join an island-hopping tour, visit Puka Beach, and experience a sunset paraw ride without rushing your schedule.
If you’re mainly visiting to relax, three days can still be enjoyable. A longer stay gives you more flexibility for water activities, restaurants, and changes in the weather.
Is Caticlan or Kalibo Airport better for Boracay?
Caticlan Airport is generally more convenient because it’s located close to the jetty port used for transfers to Boracay. Kalibo Airport usually requires around 1.5–2.5 hours of additional mainland travel.
Kalibo may still be worth considering if the airfare is considerably lower. Compare flight prices, road transfers, and total travel time before deciding.
Does the Boracay budget calculator include accommodation, meals, and boat transfers?
Yes. The calculator estimates accommodation, meals, mainland transportation, local e-tricycle expenses, boat and port fees, sightseeing, and selected water activities. It also includes a contingency allowance for unexpected costs.
These are illustrative planning figures rather than live bookings or confirmed prices. Port charges, hotel rates, and flight fares can change with travel dates and demand.
Is Boracay expensive for tourists?
Boracay can accommodate different budgets. You can reduce expenses by staying in a hostel or affordable guesthouse, eating at local restaurants, and spending more time enjoying free attractions such as White Beach and its sunsets.
Beachfront resorts, private transfers, and several paid water activities can make the trip more expensive. Choosing just a few activities can help keep costs manageable.
When is the best time to visit Boracay?
Many travelers prefer visiting during the relatively drier months from December to April. White Beach is often more sheltered during the Amihan season, making it a popular period for beach holidays.
However, Christmas, Holy Week, and other holidays can bring larger crowds and higher hotel rates. Check the weather forecast before booking island hopping or water sports.
Do I need a private vehicle to explore Boracay?
No. You can explore many parts of Boracay using e-tricycles and walking. The White Beach area is especially convenient for visiting restaurants, shops, and nearby attractions on foot.
Shared rides are generally more affordable than chartering a whole e-tricycle. For more distant places such as Puka Beach, you can arrange transportation and confirm the fare before boarding.
What are the entry requirements for Boracay Island?
Visitors should prepare valid identification, accommodation details, and any required visitor registration or payment confirmations. Applicable environmental, terminal, and boat charges are usually paid as part of the island crossing.
Check the official LezzGo Boracay portal for current registration procedures, fees, and available exemptions before your trip.
Is the Boracay trip calculator free to use?
Yes, it’s completely free. You can adjust your departure location, number of travelers, trip duration, travel preference, and selected activities to generate a suggested travel budget and day-by-day itinerary.
You can also copy your travel plan or use the Save as PDF option to keep it for reference. No account is required.
Can I request a customized Boracay itinerary for a larger group?
Absolutely. The calculator supports trips of one to seven days for up to eight travelers. If you’re planning a longer vacation, organizing a group of more than eight people, or hoping to explore quieter beaches and lesser-known attractions, you can request personalized travel assistance.
Visit our contact page to share your preferences, travel dates, and the type of experience you’re looking for.
A quick reminder: Travel prices, transportation schedules, port fees, water activity availability, and accommodation rates may change. Use the calculator above as a planning guide and confirm current information before making reservations.
Need a little more detail? Let’s plan it together.
Traveling with more than 8 people, staying longer than 7 days, or simply looking for a more customized Boracay itinerary? Our travel expert can help with everything from detailed budgets and Caticlan or Kalibo airport transfers to island boat crossings, quieter beaches, hidden cafés, scenic spots, and practical local tips. Share your plans with us, and we’ll help work out the details based on your preferences and your trip’s complexity.