Skip to content

Book your Philippines MadPass today: 15 or 30 Day Passes: Unlimited Stays in Cebu City, Dumaguete, Siquijor & Panglao🇵🇭🏝️🎉

The famous beaches of Boracay Island in the Philippines attract thousands of tourists every year. Most are drawn here by visions of relaxation and sunbathing. This island paradise, however, caters to active visitors, as well. Many hotels and guesthouses have partnerships with tour companies. Before venturing out onto the island, be sure to ask your accommodation option about booking options. You might even score a good deal by doing so. If you happen to be staying at Mad Monkey Boracay, we can definitely hook you up with an amazing tour deal! With that being said, here are 35 things to do in Boracay. 

Things to do in Boracay?

Contents

1. Get buzzed on a party cruise

Take the party out to sea on one of Boracay’s famous party cruises. This easily tops our list of things to do on the island. These floating parties never to fail to bring together an awesome, fun-loving group. Drinks, music, dancing, and the open water … what is there not to love? 

Mad Monkey Boracay’s boat party is one of the most memorable of them all. The excursion includes all you can drink beverages, cliff jumping at Magic Island, snorkeling, and sunset watching. They take you to a secluded beach you would be hard-pressed to find on your own, as well.

 

1. Get buzzed on a party cruise - Things to do in Boracay: 35 Activities for Backpackers
Boracay booze cruise © Courtesy of Mad Monkey Hostels

 

 

Things to do in Boracay?

2. Island hop

Boracay is surrounded by several smaller islands. Each one is a little slice of paradise equipped with great views and idyllic picnic sites. Hopping between them is a great way to pass the time. You may even discover a secluded beach to call your own for the day.
There are two options when it comes to island hopping. The first is to join a group trip. The second option is to rent out a boat for a few hours and explore on your own. Rental boats usually hold up to eight people and can be rented for three or six hours. Whether you choose a tour or a rental, the price will range from $30-100.

 

Things to do in Boracay?

3. Take a trip to Crystal Cove

Crystal Cove Island is a popular stop on most Boracay island hopping tours. You can take a day visiting it on its own, as well. It is about a 15-minute boat ride away from White Beach. We love it for its pristine beaches, deep coves, and amazing ocean views. Once you reach Crystal Cove Island, you can snorkel, hike, or partake in some water sports. Prices to the island will vary depending on the package you book. A round-trip from Boracay will cost around $10. Additional charges apply for snorkelling or lunch. If you are on a tight budget, pack a lunch. Do not forget water and bring cash too; there is sometimes an admission fee.

 

Things to do in Boracay?

4. Visit Ariel’s Point

Ariel’s Point is an adventure destination located 30 minutes from White Beach by boat. It attracts thrill-seekers and a young crowd because of the many activities found here. Cliff diving is one of the main ones. There are five platforms to leap from, ranging from 3-15 metres high. Those with a fear of heights can opt to paddleboard, kayak, or sunbathe. Of course, scope out the lunch buffet and the open bar! Daytrip guests receive unlimited drinks during their visit. You can book your trip online or at Ariel’s House on White Beach in Station 1. Spots are limited and tend to sell out, so we recommend booking online. 

 

Things to do in Boracay?

5. Check out Carabao Island

Carabao Island is a slice of untouched heaven. It is located just 20 minutes away from Boracay by boat. The island features beautiful beaches, open meadows, tropical rainforests, and rice paddy fields. Nature lovers will feel right at home here. The most memorable aspect of Carabao Island is that it is still so natural and unspoiled. Only a few tourists make their way here. Instead of the usual crowds, you will see farmers tending their fields and fishermen hauling in the day’s catch. Remember to carry some cash with you, because Carabao Island has no ATMs.

 

Things to do in Boracay
Carabao Island © Courtesy of Ocean Island Travel

 

Things to do in Boracay?

6. Go on the Indiana Jones Eco Tour

Boracay is not just a beach destination. There is lots of fun to be had inland, as well. One hot spot for adventures is Nabas, a small municipality not too far from Boracay. The best way to experience Nabas is by going on the Indian Jones Eco Tour of Nabas. The tour will take you on a journey through the fascinating Basang Cave (the longest cave in the Philippines). You will also hike through a lush forest, swim in a natural spring, and feast on a BBQ lunch.

 

6. Go on the Indiana Jones Eco Tour - Things to do in Boracay: 35 Activities for Backpackers
Indiana Jones Eco Tour © Courtesy of My Boracay Guide

 

Things to do in Boracay?

7. Partake in the Hacienda Maria Tour

Hacienda Maria Park is found in Buruanga, one of the several archipelagos that surround Boracay. Popular activities here include cliff diving, scuba diving, relaxing in the Mangrove Park, sunbathing, cave exploration, and hiking. The Hacienda Maria Tour packs all these activities into one itinerary. Other activities are thrown in too, like swimming at waterfalls and taking a relaxing dip in the “hot pot jacuzzi”. Pro tip: do not miss out on trying the local coconut wine!

 

7. Partake in the Hacienda Maria Tour - Things to do in Boracay: 35 Activities for Backpackers
Hacienda Maria Tour © Courtesy of My Boracay Guide

 

Things to do in Boracay?

8. Ride an ATV or buggy car

Most people get around Boracay by tricycle, because they are everywhere on the island. Try something different: explore Boracay via an ATV or a buggy car. You will see the island from angles that most tourists miss out on. Special ATV and buggy car tours offer rides to various attractions around Boracay.

 

Things to do in Boracay?

9. Ride in a cable car or go ziplining

Get the thrill of your life by plummeting down a zipline in Boracay. The wind in your hair, the mixed sensation of falling and flying, and the stunning views combine for an experience like no other. Different companies in Boracay offer ziplines of different lengths. If you are adventurous, try the 680-metre zipline offered by Boracay Leisure Travel. If your heart cannot take quite that much adrenaline, try the 70-metre zipline at My Boracay Guide.

 

Things to do in Boracay
Ziplining © Courtesy of Pixabay

 

Things to do in Boracay?

10. Ride horseback

Boracay is the place to be to saddle up and go horseback riding! On horseback, you can visit locations further away from the coastline. Popular sites to ride to include Mt. Luho, Yapak, Balabag, and the local villages. For the best experience, be sure to go at dawn. The air is cool, there are not too many people out, and the island is beautiful in the early morning light. If you have never ridden before, some companies offer lessons for $15-30 per person. When booking a tour, make sure to check the specific itinerary provided to make the most out of your explorations.

 

Things to do in Boracay?

11. Take a helicopter tour

Nothing beats taking in the beauty of Boracay from way up in the sky. Helicopter tours are not cheap, but the experience is unforgettable. If you are going to splurge on one or two things to do in Boracay, definitely consider this! You will see the island in a way you never could from land. Turquoise waters lap up onto white-sand beaches, which give way to lush forests.

 

Things to do in Boracay?

12. Ride the Reverse Bungy

Have you ever heard of the Reverse Bungy? Neither had we, but it is just what you might think it is. Take bungy jumping, where you hurtle towards the ground, but flip it around. The Reverse Bungy contraption will sling you 60 metres above sea level. This attraction is not for the faint of heart. If you can stomach it, however, it is one of the most unique things to do in Boracay.

 

12. Ride the Reverse Bungy - Things to do in Boracay: 35 Activities for Backpackers
Reverse Bungy © Courtesy of G-Max Boracay on YouTube

 

Things to do in Boracay?

13. Take to an indoor shooting range

This is one of the newer things to do in Boracay. A range officer will train you in the basics of shooting and help you try out various handguns. If you are already an experienced shooter, you can skip the lesson and let the fun begin.

 

Things to do in Boracay?

14. Go scuba diving

The warm, clear waters of Boracay provide perfect diving conditions. First-time divers will be happy to hear that there are plenty of companies that offer beginner and intermediate dive lessons. If you have the experience, you will be in heaven at Boracay’s array of dive sites. Many dive shops offer trips around the surrounding waters. You will not regret diving with the Philippines’ amazing underwater wildlife, as well. White Beach Divers is one of the most renowned companies on the island, so be sure to check them out!

 

Things to do in Boracay?

15. Try free diving

Looking for an alternative to scuba diving? Shed all the heavy equipment and plunge into the ocean with just your breath to sustain you then. Freediving is fun, thrilling, and awe-inspiring. All levels of divers can enjoy trying it, with proper instruction.

 

Things to do in Boracay?

16. Go helmet diving

This is yet another awesome way to take in the wildlife under the water! Helmet diving is a surreal experience. A helmet-like apparatus lets you breathe normally while you walk along the floor of a shallow part of the sea (no deeper than ten feet). The helmet has padding that rests on your shoulders. It is open underneath, but no water can get in. A hose connected to your boat delivers a continual stream of air into your helmet. It may sound tricky, but it is fairly simple. No diving experience is required to go helmet diving: all you are really doing is walking!

 

 

Things to do in Boracay?

17. Jetski

Jetskiing is especially popular on Bulabog Beach, where you can race your friends and feel the wind whip through your hair! After paying, you will be taken offshore and then set free to enjoy the ride. Your hotel or resort may offer jet ski rentals. If not, the following companies do.

 

Things to do in Boracay?

18. Parasail

There are few water activities as thrilling as parasailing. A boat tows you until the wind catches the sail attached to you and lifts you up for a bird’s eye view of the island. You will be carried sky high over the teeming surf. Boracay has awesome parasailing conditions. This is a must-do for any visitor to the island unless you are afraid of heights, of course. It is fun and adrenaline-pumping, and guides can help you do it safely.

 

 

18. Parasail - Things to do in Boracay: 35 Activities for Backpackers
Parasailing © Courtesy of Sofia S on YouTube

 

Things to do in Boracay?

19. Learn to kitesurf

Kiteboarding, or kitesurfing, is an awesome and unique water sport. It is one of our favourite things to do in Boracay. Boracay has world-class kiteboarding conditions and a ton of kiteboarding schools. Head over to Bulabog Beach for the greatest selection of them. Tour companies and rental shops also provide kiteboarding gear, as well.

 

Things to do in Boracay?

20. Go flyboarding

This relatively new water sport is sure to win over all adventure loving tourists. A hoverboard is combined with a water jetpack to make a futuristic contraption that allows you to fly above the sea. Strong water jets propel you up to 15 metres into the air. Make sure you are given a helmet and life jacket (safety first). Flyboarding is a real rush and makes for a great story to tell back home. Xtreme Fun offers flyboarding, hoverboards, and flybikes.

 

Things to do in Boracay?

21. Hang loose on the Wave Rider

The Wave Rider experience involves riding a wave created by a man-made pool. Avid surfers can play around and hone their technique. Newbies can have a super fun introduction to the sport before trying their luck in the ocean. One advantage of the pool is that the ‘waves’ are guaranteed to be good and continuous, so you can maximize your surf time. Currently, the only place in Boracay with a Wave Rider is the Crown Regency Resort and Convention Center. The resort is found in Station 2, White Beach. Hotel guests and walk-ins alike can make use of it. It gets busy, so try to time your visit when the crowds are leaner – mornings are a good bet.

 

21. Hang loose on the Wave Rider - Things to do in Boracay: 35 Activities for Backpackers
The Wave Rider © Courtesy of My Boracay Guide

 

Things to do in Boracay?

22. Windsurfing

Windsurfing is when sailing meets surfing. Strap your foot onto a board and then grab onto the sail that will propel you across the water. Boracay is equipped with great windsurfing conditions. Bulabog Beach (on the opposite side of White Beach) is especially known for this.

 

22. Windsurfing - Things to do in Boracay: 35 Activities for Backpackers
Windsurfing © Courtesy of Windsurf Asia

 

Things to do in Boracay?

23. Go on the Bandwagon Experience

New watersports seem to keep popping up, and the Bandwagon Experience is the latest craze to hit the beaches of Boracay. This inflatable device can hold up to four people as a boat tows it through the waves. You can sit, stand, or kneel as you bounce along. This experience is less extreme than some of the other watersports on offer, so if you are a bit more cautious, this might be the activity for you.

 

Things to do in Boracay?

24. Go on the fly fishing ride

Are you up for a thrilling ride? A Fly Fish is a huge inflatable fish attached to a speedboat. You hold on for dear life while the boat pulls you along. At first, you will skid over the water’s surface. As the boat gains speed, however, expect to catch some serious air! The boat can hold anywhere from two to six people.

 

 

Things to do in Boracay?

25. Climb aboard a banana boat ride

A banana boat is a long, round inflatable. It is yellow (hence the name), and you sit astride the banana as a speedboat tows you along for a wild ride. It can hold several people at once, so your whole group can get in on the fun.

 

Things to do in Boracay?

26. Climb aboard a paraw

A paraw is a local Boracay boat with a sail. It can hold several people. If you are in the mood to enjoy the water and soak in the Boracay sunset, this is your activity. Make new friends while you soak in the views of the shore. It is one of the most picturesque things to do in Boracay.

 

26. Climb aboard a paraw - Things to do in Boracay: 35 Activities for Backpackers
Paraw Sailing © Courtesy of My Boracay Guide

 

Things to do in Boracay?

27. Drink your way through a Boracay pub crawl

If you love to party, you cannot miss out on a Boracay pub crawl. Join the loudest and liveliest crowd on the island and visit the best party bars in Boracay. You get free shorts, cheap drinks, a free customized t-shirt, and great new friends. Boracay Pub Crawl has only been around for a short time, but it has quickly become one of the most popular night activities on the island. You can book a spot at most hostels, hotels, or other pub crawl partners. Just keep an eye out for the Boracay Pub Crawl posters in restaurants and bars around town. Early bookers get a discount!

 

27. Drink your way through a Boracay pub crawl - Things to do in Boracay: 35 Activities for Backpackers
© Courtesy of Mad Monkey Boracay

 

Things to do in Boracay?

28. Sail on a luxury yacht

Do not let the word luxury intimidate you, as prices greatly vary. Even on a tight budget, you can find a way to enjoy a day of yachting. Beautiful sights, cool drinks, and great company will make for an unforgettable day.

 

Things to do in Boracay?

29. Visit the Motag Living Museum Tour

Are you curious about life in the Philippines before tourists arrived? After a few beach days and party nights, maybe you are ready for a cultural experience. You can get a glimpse of Boracay’s early days at the Motag Living Museum. You will see and experience traditional local farming methods. You can even try your hand at ploughing, planting, harrowing, threshing, pounding, and cooking. Kids and adults alike can enjoy traditional crafts and games. Please note that the museum is not located on the island, and you have to take a boat to Caticlan Port to reach it.

 

Things to do in Boracay?

30. Visit the Discovery Tunnel

You can enjoy the fantastic marine wildlife of the Philippines without wearing lots of heavy gear at Discovery Tunnel. The tunnel-shaped oceanarium in Boracay is the longest ocean walk in the Philippines. You can watch the marine life, enjoy a mermaid show, and even see the largest pearl in the world here.

 

30. Visit the Discovery Tunnel - Things to do in Boracay: 35 Activities for Backpackers
Aquarium Scuba © Courtesy of My Boracay Guide

 

Things to do in Boracay?

31. Dive at the Boracay Aquarium

Is seeing marine life through a pane of glass not enough for you? For a more immersive experience, try Aquarium Scuba Diving. You can dive into a tank in the Philippines’ largest aquarium. It will give you a unique vantage point of an array of marine wonders. Any necessary gear is provided. A professional instructor will tell you what to do. Diving experience is not required.

 

31. Dive at the Boracay Aquarium - Things to do in Boracay: 35 Activities for Backpackers
Aquarium Ocean Walk © Courtesy of My Boracay Guide

 

Things to do in Boracay?

32. Experience the Boracay Aquarium Ocean Walk

Anyone who has tried the Aquarium Ocean Walk raves about it. A full-face mask allows you to breathe freely while you walk through the tanks of the Philippines’ largest aquarium. This is a bit less intense than the Boracay Aquarium Scuba. It is still a fabulous way to explore underwater and interact with marine animals!

 

32. Experience the Boracay Aquarium Ocean Walk - Things to do in Boracay: 35 Activities for Backpackers
© Courtesy of My Boracay Guide

 

Things to do in Boracay?

33. Enjoy the sunset at Spider House Resort

There is no better spot to watch the sun go down over the stunning island than at Spider House Resort. Visitors are able to dive right into the ocean from the deck of their delicious restaurant. The accommodation opened back in 1989 and has become one of the most favourited destinations on the island because of its dreamy location and laid-back atmosphere. Visitors can also book scuba diving, kitesurfing, and sailing excursions at Spider House Resort.

 

Things to do in Boracay?

34. Get buzzed at Mad Monkey Boracay

Almost last but not least, every visitor to Boracay needs to stop by the epic Mad Monkey Boracay hostel to indulge in a few alcoholic beverages or two. It is the premier backpacker’s accommodation option on the island, as the awesome crowds and drink specials certainly reflect this. If you have one too many drinks, be sure to check out their extensive menu featuring western and local favourites to aid in your drunk munchies. All the drink specials and good crowds are matched with the equally as good vibes at the hostel, as every aspect of it’s designed was created to foster an inclusive atmosphere for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to bring your swimsuit, as Mad Monkey Boracay is also equipped with a refreshing swimming pool perfect for partying in.

 

34. Get buzzed at Mad Monkey Boracay - Things to do in Boracay: 35 Activities for Backpackers

 

Things to do in Boracay?

35. Indulge in a spa package

If you have worked your way through all these activities and parties, you are going to be worn out! You will definitely deserve to treat yourself to a spa package, and luckily for visitors, Mad Monkey Boracay has their very own in-house spa. Roofdeck Spa Boracay is conveniently located in the hostel. It is the perfect place to pamper yourself. The spa offers a number of different relaxation and pampering services, so be sure to check them out.

  • Contact: +63 36 288 9240
  • Hours: daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

 

35. Indulge in a spa package - Things to do in Boracay: 35 Activities for Backpackers
Spa chairs © Roofdeck Spa Boracay

 

Check out these other helpful articles about things to do in Boracay!

We only recommend writers and blogs that we read regularly and believe will deliver substantial value to our readers. The following are our top picks for articles worth reading for more information on things to do in Boracay.

 

 

Like it? Pin it!

Like it? Pin it! - Things to do in Boracay: 35 Activities for Backpackers

Information

About the Author

Mad Monkey is Southeast Asia’s leading hostel operator — born in Cambodia with more properties in Thailand, Indonesia, Australia, Laos, and the Philippines. We pride ourselves in creating meaningful and sustainable travel experiences for our guests, whilst promoting socially responsible tourism.