Boracay is a tropical paradise located in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines. This beautiful island is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. Boracay is a great destination if you’re visiting the Philippines with kids, offering a variety of activities and attractions that will keep everyone entertained. Whether you want to relax on the beach, try some water sports, or explore the local culture, Boracay has something for everyone. Here’s our comprehensive travel guide to help you plan your vacation to Boracay with family.
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Things to Do in Boracay with Family
I’ve been to Boracay with my family a number of times, and this is where my wife and I spent our honeymoon! While the best thing to do in Boracay is to just laze around on the beach, if you have kids with you, you may want to consider a wider variety of activities.
- Island hopping: Take a boat tour to explore the neighboring islands and beaches around Boracay. You’ll get to visit some of the most beautiful spots in the region, including Puka Beach, Crystal Cove Island, and Magic Island.
- Parasailing: Experience the thrill of flying over the sea while being towed by a speedboat. This activity is suitable for all ages, and you’ll get to enjoy stunning views of the island from above.
- Stand-up paddleboarding: Paddle along the calm waters of Boracay and explore the island’s stunning coastline. This activity is suitable for all skill levels, and it’s a great way to enjoy some family bonding time.
- Snorkeling: Discover the underwater world of Boracay by snorkeling in the island’s many dive sites. You’ll get to see colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and other marine life. When you go on an island hopping tour, snorkeling is usually part of the package.
- ATV adventure: Explore the rugged terrain of Boracay by riding an all-terrain vehicle (ATV). You’ll get to visit some of the island’s hidden gems, such as secluded beaches and hilltop viewpoints.
- Zipline: Experience the thrill of zipping across the lush forest canopy of Boracay. This activity is suitable for older kids and adults, and it’s a great way to enjoy some adrenaline-pumping fun.
- Cliff diving: Take the plunge and jump off the rocky cliffs of Ariel’s Point. This activity is suitable for older kids and adults, and it’s a great way to enjoy some adventure and excitement.
Where to Go in Boracay with Family
Here are some of the best places to go in Boracay with family:
- White Beach: Boracay’s most famous beach is a must-visit for families with kids. The powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles.
- Bulabog Beach: If you’re looking for some water sports action, head to Bulabog Beach. This beach is a hotspot for kiteboarding and windsurfing, and plenty of rental shops and instructors are available.
- Mount Luho: Take a hike up to the highest point in Boracay and enjoy panoramic views of the island. You can either hike or take a tricycle ride up to the viewpoint.
- Diniwid Beach: If you’re looking for a quieter and more secluded beach, head to Diniwid Beach. This small beach is perfect for relaxing and enjoying some peace and quiet.
- D’Mall: D’Mall is a great place to find souvenirs, clothes, and food. There are also a number of family-friendly restaurants and cafes.
- Boracay Butterfly Garden: Take a break from the beach and visit the Boracay Butterfly Garden. You’ll get to see a variety of butterfly species and learn about their life cycle and habitat.
- Bat Cave: Explore the mysterious Bat Cave located in Yapak. You’ll get to see thousands of bats flying around, and if you’re lucky, you might spot some other wildlife too.
- Boracay Food Market: Sample some local delicacies and street food at the Boracay Food Market. This vibrant night market offers a variety of food options, from fresh seafood to grilled meats and exotic fruits.
Best Station to Stay in Boracay
Boracay is divided into three stations: Station 1, Station 2, and Station 3. Each station has its own unique character and attractions.
- Station 1 is the most popular station and is home to the best beaches, resorts, and restaurants. It is also the most crowded and expensive station.
- Station 2 is a bit more laid-back than Station 1, but it still has plenty of great beaches and resorts. It is also a bit more affordable than Station 1.
- Station 3 is the most affordable station and is the perfect place to stay if you are looking for a quiet and relaxing vacation. It is also the home of Diniwid Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in Boracay.
Here is a more detailed overview of each station:
Station 1
- Pros:
- Best beaches in Boracay
- Most luxurious resorts and restaurants
- Close to D’Mall
- Cons:
- Most expensive
- Crowded
- Noisy
Station 2
- Pros:
- Great beaches
- More affordable than Station 1
- Still close to D’Mall
- Cons:
- Not as luxurious as Station 1
- Can be crowded during peak season
Station 3
- Pros:
- Most affordable
- Most laid-back
- Close to Diniwid Beach
- Cons:
- Not as many amenities as Station 1 or 2
- Beaches can be crowded during peak season
Where to Stay in Boracay with Family
Here are some of the best places to stay in Boracay with family:
- Shangri-La Boracay Resort and Spa: This luxurious beachfront resort is perfect for families with kids. It features spacious rooms and villas, a private beach, a kids’ club, and multiple restaurants and bars.
- Henann Regency Resort and Spa: This family-friendly resort is located right on White Beach and offers spacious rooms and suites, multiple swimming pools, a kids’ club, and a spa.
- Fairways and Bluewater Boracay: This sprawling resort complex is set amidst lush greenery and features a golf course, multiple swimming pools, a private beach, and a kids’ club.
- Movenpick Resort and Spa Boracay: This beachfront resort offers luxurious rooms and suites, multiple swimming pools, a kids’ club, and a spa. It also has a variety of restaurants and bars, including an ice cream parlor.
- Crimson Resort and Spa Boracay: This modern beachfront resort features spacious rooms and villas, a private beach, multiple swimming pools, a kids’ club, and a spa.
- The Lind Boracay: This 5-star beachfront resort is located in Station 1. It is a great choice for families with children, as it offers a variety of amenities and activities for all ages. The resort has a private beach, a swimming pool, a kids’ club, and a spa. There are also a number of restaurants on-site, as well as a convenience store.
- Discovery Shores Boracay: This is another great option for families. It is a 4-star resort located in Station 1. The resort has a private beach, a swimming pool, a kids’ club, and a spa. There are also a number of restaurants on-site, as well as a convenience store.
- The Bellevue Resort: This 4-star resort is located in Station 2. It is a great choice for families with children, as it offers a variety of amenities and activities for all ages. The resort has a private beach, a swimming pool, a kids’ club, and a spa. There are also a number of restaurants on-site, as well as a convenience store.
- The Boracay Novotel: The Boracay Novotel is a 3-star resort located in Station 3. It is a great choice for families on a budget, as it offers a variety of amenities and activities for all ages. The resort has a private beach, a swimming pool, a kids’ club, and a spa. There are also a number of restaurants on-site, as well as a convenience store.
Where to Eat in Boracay with Family
Boracay is a paradise for foodies, with something to offer everyone. Here are some of the best places to eat in Boracay with family:
- D’Mall: D’Mall is a great place to find a variety of restaurants to suit all tastes and budgets. There are also a number of family-friendly restaurants, such as The Fat Cow, which serves up delicious burgers and steaks, and The Pizza Company, which has a wide variety of pizzas to choose from.
- Station 1: Station 1 is home to some of the best restaurants in Boracay. If you’re looking for a special occasion meal, Casa Kalaw is a great option. The restaurant serves up modern Filipino cuisine in a beautiful setting. For something more casual, The Deck is a great choice. The restaurant has stunning views of the beach and a wide variety of food to choose from.
- Station 2: Station 2 is a great place to find family-friendly restaurants. The Beachhouse Boracay is a great option for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The restaurant has a wide variety of food to choose from, including pizzas, burgers, and salads. There’s also a kids’ menu with all the favorites. Cafe del Sol is another great option for families. The restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere and a wide variety of food to choose from, including pizzas, pasta, and seafood.
- Station 3: Station 3 is a great place to find budget-friendly restaurants. Big J’s is a great option for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The restaurant serves up American comfort food in a casual setting. The Original Cabalen is another great option for families. The restaurant serves up Filipino cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere.
When to Go to Boracay with Family
The best time to visit Boracay with family is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. The weather during this time is generally sunny and dry, with little to no rainfall. The peak season for tourism is from December to February, so be prepared for higher prices and larger crowds during this time.
How Long to Stay in Boracay with Family
We recommend spending at least 3 to 5 days in Boracay with family to fully enjoy all the island has to offer. This will give you enough time to explore the beaches, try some water sports, and visit some of the local attractions.
If you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation, you could easily spend a week or more exploring the island. If you’re more interested in activities like hiking, biking, and snorkeling, you could easily spend a few days or even just a weekend.
Here are a few things to consider when deciding how long to stay in Boracay with your family:
- Your interests: What are you most interested in doing in Boracay? If you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation, you could easily spend a week or more exploring the island. If you’re more interested in activities like hiking, biking, and snorkeling, you could easily spend a few days or even just a weekend.
- Your budget: Boracay is a popular tourist destination, so prices can be high. If you’re on a budget, you might want to consider staying in a less expensive resort or renting a villa.
- Your family’s age and interests: If you have young children, you might want to consider staying in a resort that has a kids’ club or other activities for children. If you have older children or teenagers, you might want to consider staying in a resort that has more activities for adults, such as a spa or a fitness center.
1-Week How to Get Around BoracayFamily Itinerary in Boracay
Day 1:
- Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at your hotel or at one of the many beachfront cafes and restaurants along White Beach.
- Spend the morning lounging on the soft white sand of White Beach. Take a dip in the clear turquoise waters, build sandcastles with the kids, or simply soak up the sun.
- For lunch, head to D’Mall, a popular shopping and dining destination located in the heart of Boracay. There are plenty of restaurants to choose from here, serving everything from Filipino street food to international cuisine.
- In the afternoon, take a stroll along the beachfront promenade and explore the nearby shops and boutiques. You’ll find everything from souvenirs and beachwear to handicrafts and jewelry.
- End your day by watching the sunset from White Beach. You can either find a cozy spot on the sand or enjoy a cocktail at one of the beachfront bars.
Day 2:
- Take an island hopping tour to explore some of the nearby islands and beaches. Most tours include stops at Puka Beach, Crystal Cove Island, and Magic Island, where you can swim, snorkel, and sunbathe.
- For lunch, you can either pack a picnic or have your tour guide arrange a beach barbecue for you.
- In the afternoon, head back to Boracay and take a relaxing dip in your hotel’s swimming pool.
- For dinner, head to Station 2, where you’ll find a variety of restaurants serving everything from fresh seafood to pizza and pasta.
Day 3:
- Start your day with an adrenaline-filled activity like parasailing or jet skiing. You can rent equipment from the beach vendors or book a tour through your hotel.
- For lunch, head to D’Talipapa, a seafood market located in Station 2. Choose your own fresh seafood and have it cooked to order at one of the nearby restaurants.
- In the afternoon, take a stroll along the beach and try some beach sports like frisbee or beach volleyball. You can rent equipment from the beach vendors or bring your own.
- For dinner, head to Station 3, where you’ll find a variety of restaurants serving everything from Korean barbecue to Mexican cuisine.
Day 4:
- Take an ATV tour of the island’s interior and visit some of the local villages and attractions. Some of the highlights include Mount Luho, a scenic viewpoint overlooking the island, and the Boracay Butterfly Garden, where you can see hundreds of different species of butterflies.
- For lunch, head to Jonah’s Fruit Shake and Snack Bar, a popular restaurant known for its delicious fruit shakes and sandwiches.
- In the afternoon, take a relaxing dip in your hotel’s swimming pool or book a spa treatment for the whole family.
- For dinner, head to Aplaya Restaurant, a beachfront restaurant serving a variety of Filipino and international dishes.
Day 5:
- Take a food tour of Boracay and try some of the island’s local delicacies. Some of the must-try dishes include adobo, a savory stew made with meat and soy sauce, and kinilaw, a raw seafood salad.
- For lunch, head to Sunny Side Cafe, a cozy cafe serving delicious breakfast dishes like pancakes and waffles.
- In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll along the beach and enjoy the stunning views of the sea and the sunset.
- For dinner, head to Henann Regency Resort and Spa, a family-friendly resort that offers multiple dining options, including a seafood restaurant and a steakhouse.
Day 6:
- On your last day in Boracay, take a souvenir shopping trip to D’Mall and stock up on some last-minute gifts and souvenirs to bring back home. You’ll find a wide range of products, from locally-made crafts and jewelry to beachwear and trinkets.
- For lunch, head to the Real Coffee and Tea Cafe, a charming cafe known for its homemade pastries and specialty coffee.
- In the afternoon, take a dip in the clear turquoise waters of White Beach and enjoy some last-minute sunbathing and swimming.
- In the evening, head to the beachfront and enjoy a spectacular fire dance show performed by local artists. It’s a great way to end your Boracay vacation with a bang!
How to Get Around Boracay
There are several ways to get around Boracay. The most common way is to walk or rent a bicycle. The island is small enough that it is easy to get around on foot, and there are also a number of bike rental shops located on the island.
If you are staying in a resort, your resort may also offer shuttle service to and from the airport, as well as to and from different points on the island.
There are also a number of tricycles and jeepneys that operate on the island. Tricycles are small, three-wheeled vehicles that can accommodate up to four passengers. Jeepneys are larger, more public vehicles that can accommodate up to 15 passengers.
Finally, there are also a number of taxis that operate on the island. Taxis are metered, but it is important to agree on a fare with the driver before you get in the car.
Here are some tips for getting around Boracay:
- Walk or rent a bicycle: This is the most affordable and environmentally friendly way to get around the island.
- Take a tricycle or jeepney: These are the most common forms of public transportation on the island. They are relatively inexpensive, but they can be crowded and slow.
- Take a taxi: Taxis are the most convenient way to get around the island, but they can be expensive.
- Plan your route in advance: Boracay is a small island, but it can be easy to get lost if you don’t know where you’re going.
- Be aware of your surroundings: Boracay is a safe island, but it’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
- Enjoy the journey: Boracay is a beautiful island, so take your time and enjoy the scenery as you get around.
