Island Hopping and Water Sports in Boracay

Part of the Boracay travel guide — see every topic in All Boracay Guides.

Boracay's clear, warm water is perfect for time on and under the sea. You can sail on a traditional boat, join an island-hopping tour, learn to dive or try kitesurfing. Most activities can be booked on the beach or through your hotel. This guide covers the main options and gives simple safety tips.

Paraw sailing

A paraw is a traditional Filipino sailboat with two long outriggers on the sides. Paraw rides are one of the best-loved activities on Boracay. Boats sail along White Beach, usually for about an hour. The most popular time is sunset, when the sky turns orange and pink. You sit on the netting between the hull and the outriggers, close to the water, so expect to get a little wet. Book on the beach and agree on the price and length of the ride first. Rides may stop when the wind is too strong.

Island-hopping tours

Island-hopping tours visit small islands and coves around Boracay. Common stops include Crystal Cove, an island with small caves and viewpoints, and Crocodile Island, a good snorkelling spot named for its shape. Some tours stop at Magic Island, where people jump into the sea from rock platforms of different heights. Tours often include lunch on a beach. Group tours are cheap and easy, and private boats let you choose your own stops. Entrance fees at some islands may be extra, so ask before you pay.

Diving and snorkelling

Boracay has many dive shops and good sites for beginners and experienced divers. Crocodile Island and Friday's Rock have coral and many fish. Yapak, off the north of the island, is a deep wall dive for experienced divers, known for larger fish. Beginners can take a first course over a few days or try a single guided dive. Snorkelling is easy at Crocodile Island and other calm spots. Choose a shop with small groups and good safety briefings, and never touch or stand on coral.

Kitesurfing on Bulabog Beach

Bulabog Beach, on the east side of the island, is one of the best-known kitesurfing spots in Asia. From about November to April, the steady Amihan wind blows across a wide, shallow lagoon protected by a reef. This makes it good for learning. Several schools offer lessons with certified instructors and rental equipment. A beginner course usually takes a few days. Windsurfing is also popular here. In the other half of the year, the wind changes and the kite schools are much quieter.

Safety tips

Always wear a life jacket on boats, even for short trips. Check the weather before you book, because tours can be cancelled when the sea is rough. Choose operators who are registered with the local tourism office. Do not jump from rocks unless you are a confident swimmer and the water is deep enough. Drink plenty of water and use reef-safe sun protection. Jet skis and some motorised water sports are limited to certain areas. Follow the rules and the instructions of the crew.

Island Hopping and Water Sports at a glance

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