Boracay: A first timer’s guide to exploring the island in 2 days
For a first timer who's heard of great things about Boracay, there sure is pressure to make the most out of it when they're finally given a chance to explore the island. And that’s exactly what this gal did for two days.
Apart from its picturesque views, Boracay radiates the kind of serenity one needs especially after being in the city for quite some time.
Thanks to Philippine Airlines and the Tourism Promotions Board, we were able to experience some of the country's beautiful islands once again.
Looking forward to your next Boracay trip? Here is a quick itinerary that you might want to try.
DAY 1
2 PM - After tiring plane, boat, and shuttle rides, settle in at Henann Crystal Sands located at Station 2 and get that well-deserved rest before dipping into their pool that takes the spotlight in the hotel’s center.
You may also immediately opt for the beach, which is just a few steps away from the rooms. Beside the hotel’s Sapphire Restaurant are a variety of activities that you can try.
From paddle boards, kayaks, and even getting your hair braided for that island feel and look, the hotel is the perfect place to stay if you want to experience all of these without hassle.
3 PM - With the sun giving off just the right amount of light for a tan, roll out a banig, sip buko juice, and wait until the sun sets before settling in for the night.
Of course, what’s Boracay without getting those beach photos? You don’t have to worry if you’re visiting the island alone. Kuyas are very much willing to take those Instagram-worthy shots, and are even going to teach you how to pose while also finding your right angles. Just don’t forget to give them a tip!
6 PM - Boracay is also known for its nightlife. After getting ready for dinner, take a stroll along Station 2 and head to Epic, where you can grab a bite then proceed to partying afterwards.
Their menu offers a wide variety of options including pasta, appetizers such as baked Chilean mussels, popcorn shrimp and gambas, and mains like roast beef belly and baked salmon fillet.
Take the time to try their alcoholic drinks, which will go well with dancing around with friends to the tunes prepared by the DJ. They have cocktails, party pitchers, tequila, rum, and gin, among others.
For non-alcohol drinkers, meanwhile, no worries, because Epic Boracay offers drinks that will suit your taste such as fruit shakes and juices, coffee, and even tea.
With the curfew being lifted on the island, tourists usually stay with friends at Epic for as long as they want. No worries though because Henann Crystal Sands is also just a few steps away.
DAY 2
8 AM - Start your day with a filling breakfast prepared by Sapphire at Henann Crystal Sands. Get your fix of bacon and eggs paired with the good ol’ sinangag then finish it off with a crepe or pancake.
9 AM - Burn those calories by exploring some local stores by the beach. These offer a wide variety of items for pasalubong such as ref magnets, shirts, bags, food, swimsuits, and keychains.
Just on the inner side of D’Mall, by Feliz Hotel, there’s a handicraft store selling all kinds of stuff such as bags, mats, mask holders, and accessories all made by hand for less than PHP1,000.
11 AM - You may settle by the beach for some relaxation after walking or simply get a henna tatt. Either way, it would be good to mark the afternoon with Spanish food at Dos Mestizos.
It takes just a few minutes to reach the well-loved dining place from the hotel. It is usually always filled with customers, but going on weekdays will save you some time.
Apart from cochinillo, it offers tapas, baked oysters, salpicao, paella, salads, and callos, to name a few. It’s open daily from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Reservations can be done through its website.
2 PM - Experience Boracay’s beautiful sunset through a cruise. Apart from relaxing, get to know more about the island through the tour guides.
In the cruise, you’ll get a glimpse of Boracay West Cove, Balinghay Beach, and more of the beautiful sights that staying just outside the hotel won’t give you.
The sun will start to set at around 5:30 p.m., so you’ll have lots of time to take some photos with friends, do some kayaking, paddle boarding, and simply swimming during stopovers.
7 PM - After being in the sea for hours, get a good bath back at the hotel then head on to Sea Breeze Cafe, which is about a 10- to 15-minute walk from Henann Crystal Sands.
Like Dos Mestizos, Sea Breeze Cafe is usually full of customers, so it would be better to book early on or be there at an earlier time. The buffet dinner starts at 5:30 to 9 p.m.
9 PM - Before hitting the sack, go to Henann Crystal Sands’ Sky Pool and get some drinks by yourself or with your friends and bask in the astonishing view of the Boracay waters from above.
To curate a great itinerary that'll best fit your interests, contact Jick Dizon of Global Access Travel & Tours, Inc. at globalaccesstraveltours@gmail.com. – RC, GMA News
This story was produced through an inter-island trip sponsored by the Philippine Tourism Board and Philippine Airlines, introducing its new Hiraya Flight Pass, a smart travel tool that allows you to take multiple trips over a set period of time that best suits your needs. Read more about it here.