Boracay is one of my favorite places because of the white sand beach and its plethora of activities. If you want to visit the island, here’s what you should know before packing your bags or even booking your flight.

First thing to know? Well, arriving at your chosen hotel in Boracay is not straightforward, so I recommend packing as lightly as possible. And if you’re suffering from sea sickness, brace yourself because you might get dizzy when getting in and out of the ferry or speedboat.

Getting to Boracay

1) Fly to Caticlan or Kalibo

Boracay doesn’t have its own airport. Thus, you may choose flying into Caticlan Airport (MPH) or Kalibo International Airport (KLO).

Caticlan is closer to Boracay, which makes it the more convenient option.

2) Land Transfer to Caticlan Jetty Port

The first time me and my sisters went to Bora, we chose to land in Kalibo. Why? One reason is that flights going to Kalibo before is way cheaper than to Caticlan. But today, Caticlan flights became more affordable.

If you land in Kalibo, you’ll need to take a van or bus to Caticlan Jetty Port, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. If you arrive in Caticlan, you’re already near the port. This is exactly why I recommend booking your flight to Caticlan instead of Kalibo.

3) Boat Transfer to Boracay

From Caticlan Jetty Port, you’ll take a short boat ride (about 10-15 minutes) to Boracay Island. Options include public ferries or private speedboats. This is the main reason for packing things you only need. You don’t want to carry a huge bag that’s heavy or bulky to and from the boat. 

Know though that there are porters who can carry your bags for you – but not for free. If you’re willing to pay, make sure not to take your eyes off your bags because you might end up losing it or getting someone else’s bag, especially of you don’t have unique luggage color or design.

4) Arrival at Boracay

Once you reach the island of Boracay, you’ll need to take a tricycle, e-trike, or van to your hotel. Some resorts offer private transfers for a seamless experience.

For a seamless transportation from Kalibo or Caticlan airport to your hotel (and vice versa), consider booking your transfers. Southwest travel and tours has always been our best option – they have a designated staff guiding you throughout the transfer. And if you’re lucky, you might get a free porter for your luggage.

Getting Around Boracay

Tricycles & E-Trikes

The most common way to get around Boracay is by tricycle or e-trike. These are available 24/7 and fares depend on the distance traveled.

Bicycles & Motorbikes

For a more independent adventure, you can rent bicycles, scooters, or motorbikes. This is a great way to explore the island at your own pace.

Walking

Boracay is a small island, and many areas, especially White Beach, are best explored on foot. Walking lets you soak in the island’s beauty without worrying about transport – but be ready to get tired because it is a very long beach.

Sailboats & Boats

Want to explore nearby islands or hidden beaches? You can rent a paraw (sailboat) or a motorized banca for island-hopping.

Hotel Shuttles

Some upscale hotels provide complimentary shuttle services to popular spots like D’Mall and Station 1-3.

Hop On Hop Off (HOHO) bus service

This is probably one of my highly recommended way of exploring Boracay island.

Southwest Tours offers a Hop On Hop Off (HOHO) bus service in Boracay, making it easier for tourists to explore the island conveniently. This service provides strategically placed hop-off points, allowing you to visit key attractions without the hassle of negotiating fares with tricycles or e-trikes.

How It Works?

• The HOHO bus operates on a continuous loop, stopping at major tourist spots.
• You can hop on and hop off at designated locations, making it a flexible way to explore.
• Cash-free transactions ensure a smooth experience. You’ll be provided with a Hop On Hop Off card that the staff can just tap on their machine. You can choose from their offered Day passes, which is way more convenient than finding cash on your bag.
• The service is affordable compared to private transfers.

The HOHO bus is a great option if you want to explore Boracay at your own pace while keeping transportation costs low. You can also choose to just stay on the bus, especially when it’s extremely hot outdoor. Just sit, enjoy the view, and of course the aircon.

Final Thoughts

Boracay’s white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters make it a must-visit destination. Whether you’re hopping on a tricycle, renting a bike, or simply strolling along the shore, getting around is easy and fun.