48 Hours in Boracay, and how to make the most of it

As a world-famed vacation destination, it’s easy to get to Boracay, making it possible for you to actually have that weekend getaway on the island. There’s just so much to do on Asia’s 24/7 island, you may not be able to experience everything. Yet, a weekend is still enough to make the most of your Boracay trip. If you have 48 hours, here’s an itinerary to cover the hot spots and activities you shouldn’t miss.

DAY 1- ARRIVAL

Arrive early in the morning in Kalibo or Caticlan Airport. Upon arriving on the island, stash your bags at the hotel or hostel you have booked. Some hotels only allow check-in at 12 PM but most of them allow you to leave your bags so you could go around without any baggage. Ready your flip flops and start the day. Grab your breakfast as you will need the calories to fuel your day. Choose a beachfront restaurant to get a view of the beach while sipping your cup of coffee. Don’t rush yet, and have some time to appreciate the beauty that’s in front of you. Since it’s a bit late for an island-hopping tour, start your vacation with a land tour around the island’s iconic spot.

10 AM – 1 PM

Start the tour at Mt. Luho to get a 360 view of the island. Rent a motorcycle or tricycle if you’re with a group to Mt. Luho, located near Bulabog Beach. Prepare at least PhP100 for the entrance fee to the view deck area. Since it’s the highest point on the island, you’ll actually have to climb some stairs, but will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the island. At Mt. Luho area, you can also try zip line and sky cycling activities or ride an ATV (all-terrain vehicle (ATV).

After Mt. Luho, you can head over to Sitio Hagdan in Barangay Yapak to try kart racing as well. If you prefer to get wet early, try some water activities; just head back to the White Beach in Station 1. Of course, you don’t skip water sports activities during a Boracay holiday. A regular banana boat ride is just PhP250 per person for a minimum of five people. If you’re traveling alone, that’s not a problem since you can just join other groups. You can also try flyfish or even a jetski ride. If underwater adventure is your thing, that’s also possible as you can just easily book a helmet diving activity.

1 PM – 4 PM

After a busy morning, have a sumptuous lunch. Well, the option is long but one thing you should experience is the paluto (cooking service) on the island. If you want the same experience, there are paluto restaurants at E’Mall Talipapa in Station 3. Buy your choice of seafood, meat, and vegetables and have it cooked the way you want it. To regain some energy for the later part of the day, head back to your hotel to have some siesta time.

3 PM to 7 PM

After a refreshing break, try some popular snacks on the island while enjoying the view of the beach. Try the famous chori (chorizo) burger from any of the food stalls along the beach or get the popular banana peanut choco shake to quench your thirst while waiting for the sun to set. To enjoy the sunset best, also try a 15-minute parasailing activity or experience paraw sailing. Experiencing golden sunset on a relaxing boat ride is one thing you should not miss!

7 PM to MIDNIGHT
After the sailing, you might wanna head back first to your hotel to get some rest and prepare for dinner. You can go for buffet dinners, have a fancy dinner in a restaurant or just grab something in fast-food chains on the island. But choosing local restaurants is still the best option.

After dinner, get some booze and enjoy the island’s happy hour. Get some discounts in some bar for your drinks on their respective hours. You can also join a drinking spree and bar hopping activities, but always in moderation. Just get enough some rest for the next day.

DAY 2

6 AM to 9 AM

Waking up early when you’re on vacation has its own perks. Enjoy the 4-kilometer White Beach with a lesser crowd. After the long walk, have another filling breakfast for a busy day.

9 AM – 4 PM

You will spend six to eight hours of your second day for the island hopping activity. The activity starts at Station 1 of the White Beach. The island hopping activity includes a tour encircling the island and visiting nearby spots like Crystal Cove, and Magic Island where you can try cliff jumping. The tour also visits other beaches on the island like Puka and Ilig-Iligan. You can also try snorkeling and meet some friendly fishes. The island hopping activity also includes fulfilling buffet lunch usually with Filipino dishes. What more can you ask for? After the activity, the boat goes back to Station 1.

4 PM – 6 PM

Upon returning from the island hopping, you can opt to swim more at the White Beach and wait for another sunset. Watching how the sky folds into the darkness is just a perfect sight to cool down. You can also use this time to buy some souvenirs for family and friends back home.

7 PM – 9 PM

After taking a bath from the tiring day, it’s better to pack your things already for your takeoff the next day. Packing early will make you cram less and so you won’t forget any of your stuff.

Since it’s your last night, dress up and find another good place to eat. Whether you’re in a group, with your special someone, or just alone, spend the night in a fancy restaurant is never a bad idea. Pair it with a glass of wine or any drink you like for a delicate finish too. Take some time to witness a fire dancing performance while having dinner or even after that as well.

9 PM to MIDNIGHT

To cap your holiday, have a relaxing massage too. It’s a perfect way to release the stress and to fully feel lighter after the hectic two days. You can also have a massage in your own hotel, at the beachfront, or go to a massage place if you prefer. A relaxing moment is what you will need for a good night sleep before going back to reality the next day.

After 48 hours on the island, it’s now time to fly back home. Yes, you can actually do so much and still have a memorable holiday even just for two days. So go, book that trip now and get a tan!