Best Islands

Best Things to do in Boracay, PH

Don’t waste your trip working only on your tan. Boracay is a top tourist attraction in the Philippines for many reasons.

Great weather and fantastic scenery go hand in hand in Boracay. But don’t sleep on the thrilling activities you can engage in, either.

The island provides various adventures for tourists of all ages. So, go beyond the regular itinerary and do some memorable things during your Boracay vacation. Discover 10 of them here.

1. Jump Off Ariel’s Point

Ariel’s Point, Boracay — _{Vip-philippines.com. (2023). Available at: https://vip-philippines.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/ariels-point-01.jpg}

Make sure to cross cliff diving off your list of things to do in Boracay. You can do it on your first day or work up the courage to do it.

You’ll meet thrillseekers, backpackers, and plenty of locals at Ariel’s Point. And if you have a fear of heights, you can still try your hand at it because there are three jumping points here, with the lower ones less scary for first-timers.

2. Go Kitesurfing All Day Long

Bulabog Beach in Boracay, PH, is a unique location. It has such strong winds that it’s impossible not to catch serious air. This makes it the perfect spot to experience kitesurfing.

So, take advantage of the many kitesurfing shops on the shore that can take care of your lessons and gear.

It’s also easier to find cheap accommodations around these parts.

3. Head to White Beach

If you’re not a fan of strong winds, don’t fret. Only 1.5 miles of distance separates Bulabog Beach from White Beach. This is the nation’s most iconic beach and has three sections, multiple hotels and restaurants, and a shopping area.

Between Boat Stations 1, 2, and 3, you have your choice of upscale luxury amenities, a vibrant nightlife scene, and more laid-back areas.

You’ll get to enjoy the soft powdery sands and tame crystal blue waters no matter where you decide to stay on this beach.

4. Get a Lazy Bird’s Eye View of Boracay

Ziplining in Boracay — _{Livingnomads.com. (2023). Available at: https://livingnomads.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/boracay-zipline-things-to-do.jpg}

How can you get stunning views of the island without making an effort? If you don’t like trails, then the Zipline Park can be your answer.

Your adventure begins with a gondola ride up to Zipline Boracay. From there, you get strapped into your harness and sent down the zipline at thrilling speeds.

You won’t even have to lift a finger. Instead, you’ll get your dose of adrenaline and a quick view of the island from above. And it’s not the last of the exciting things to do in Boracay.

5. Rolling Down the Hill

Zorbing Boracay — _{Wp.com. (2022). Available at: https://i0.wp.com/outoftownblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Zorbing-in-Boracay.jpg?resize=500%2C332}

Zorbing is one of the most popular Boracay activities. If you’re unfamiliar with it, know that it involves getting yourself inside a giant plastic ball and going down a very steep hill.

You’ll experience something quite unique as you’re being hurled down a ramp, much like a bowling ball looking to wreak havoc on some pins.

Of course, if you’re prone to motion sickness, this may not be a good idea. But it’s one of the craziest activities in Boracay, so why not try it at least once?

6. Experience Parasailing

The strong winds in the region aren’t only ideal for kitesurfing. In fact, one of the top things to do in Boracay is to go parasailing.

So, catapult yourself and your friends high up in the sky. See most of the island while flying at impressive speeds.

And if you think it sounds like fun but difficult to get a ticket for, think again. It’s such a popular activity that there’s an abundance of boats ready to take tourists on a ride.

7. Check Out the Gorgeous and Gritty Sides of Boracay

When you’re ready for more thrills, book a spot on a Bat Cave adventure.

No, it’s not Batman’s lair, but it may be equally imposing.

The tour takes you into an artificial cave that was carved hundreds of years ago and its native residents include hundreds of bats. But before you get to the cave, you’ll have to trek through a scenic jungle environment with lush foliage.

Alternatively, you could shorten the tour by going to the bat caves via boat. But you might not want to miss out on the jungle walk and immersing yourself even deeper in Boracay’s natural beauty.

8. Relax with a Unique Massage

Tirta Signature Massage in Boracay — _{Primer.com.ph. (2023). Available at: https://primer.com.ph/beauty-fashion/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2016/08/Tirta-Spa-10-1024×678.jpg
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How does a one-and-a-half-hour massage sound after a day of exploration?

The Tirta Signature Massage is something you’re unlikely to experience elsewhere. It combines foot reflexology, lymphatic drainage, and Swedish massage techniques. You’ll also get aromatherapy as part of the package for a long and deeply relaxing experience.

If you’re interested in romantic things to do in Boracay, you have to consider this.

9. Become One with the Ocean

When spending enough time in Boracay, there’s one thing you simply have to try: learn to become one with the ocean and swim like a fish.

Boracay is the ideal place to learn freediving, or at least the basics. The area has many veteran instructors who can teach you how to control your breath for minutes underwater.

Picking up this skill will come with a new appreciation for diving and underwater exploration. It’s one of the most challenging things to do in Boracay, but also highly rewarding and exciting.

10. Go On a Day Trip to Crystal Cove Island in Boracay

When you’re done sunbathing, take a 20-minute trip off the main shoreline. You’ll find Crystal Cove Island somewhere thereabout.

It’s a small island with tons of play places, quirky huts, and white sand beaches. Oddly enough, it looks a lot like an abandoned jungle camp.

It’s the cave system and overall appearance that make it a great place to visit at least once. Talk about fun things to do in Boracay with kids.

Not a Moment Wasted in this Philippine Paradise

If you ever had doubts that there isn’t much to do in Boracay, here’s to hoping that these suggestions helped address your concerns.

Regardless of age, there’s always something amazing to see or do. Whether it’s relaxing on the beach, trekking through the jungle, or exploring the underwater world, anything is possible in this slice of paradise.

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Arts & Culture

Discovering Old San Juan: A Step Back in Time

Wandering through the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan feels a bit like stepping into a living, breathing postcard—one that’s been kissed by centuries of history, splashed with color, and spiced with Caribbean charm.

It’s not just a place you visit—it’s a vibe you feel in your bones. So, if you’re the type who geeks out over colonial forts, pastel-colored houses, and food that’ll make you weak in the knees, Old San Juan is so your scene.

First things first: Get lost (on purpose)

Get Lost on Purpose. San Juan Puerto Rico — Travelandleisure.com. (2025). Available at: https://www.travelandleisure.com/ [Accessed 21 Apr. 2025]

There’s no better way to experience Old San Juan than by ditching the map. Seriously, toss it in your backpack and just wander. This isn’t a city you conquer—it’s one you let slowly unfold. Every corner has a story, every balcony seems to flirt with the sky, and don’t even get me started on those bright-blue doors. Instagram gold, folks.

You’ll stumble across hidden plazas, sleepy cats sunbathing on windowsills, and maybe even a street musician serenading passersby with a bit of salsa. It’s the kind of place where time slows down and you remember how to breathe again.

Castillo San Felipe del Morro: The big kahuna

Castillo San Felipe del Morro. Puerto Rico. — Tripsavvy.com. (2025). Available at: https://www.tripsavvy.com/ [Accessed 21 Apr. 2025]

Locals just call it “El Morro,” and trust me—it’s not just another old fort. This 16th-century beast of a structure juts out into the Atlantic with a kind of rugged swagger. You can almost hear the echoes of soldiers past as you explore its tunnels, ramparts, and lookout points.

Pro tip? Bring a kite. The grassy field outside El Morro is the spot for flying one, and you’ll probably see locals doing just that. It’s wholesome, it’s breezy, and it’s pure joy.

Pastel walls & pirate tales

Old San Juan is basically a giant storybook. The buildings wear centuries like fine jewelry—blues, pinks, and yellows so vivid it’s like the city got dressed up for a fiesta and never took off the outfit. The streets themselves are paved with blue cobblestones brought over from Spain. No joke—every step you take has some serious history beneath it.

And yeah, there were pirates here. Real ones. The kind with treasure maps and dramatic escapes. Ask a local bartender and you’ll probably get a wild tale or two—some of which may even be true.

Let’s talk food (because duh)

Puerto Rican Food — Theinternationalkitchen.com. (2025). Available at: https://www.theinternationalkitchen.com/ [Accessed 21 Apr. 2025]

You can’t visit Old San Juan without diving headfirst into the local eats. Start with mofongo—mashed plantains with garlic, chicharrón, and a protein of your choice. It’s hearty, it’s flavorful, and it might just change your life. Grab a seat at a rooftop restaurant and watch the city buzz below as you dig in.

Craving something sweet? Hit up a local bakery for mallorcas (a flaky pastry dusted with powdered sugar) or track down some homemade piragua—Puerto Rico’s spin on shaved ice, drenched in tropical syrup.

Nightfall magic

Puerto Rican Night Life — Tripjive.com. (2025). Available at: https://tripjive.com/[Accessed 21 Apr. 2025]

When the sun starts to dip, Old San Juan doesn’t go to sleep—it shifts gears. Streetlights glow golden, live music spills out of bars and cafés, and the air feels like it’s humming with stories. Whether you’re sipping a rum cocktail under the stars or dancing in a tiny salsa bar, there’s something undeniably electric about the place at night.

Final thoughts

Old San Juan isn’t just a stop on your itinerary. It’s the kind of destination that lingers with you. Long after you’ve left, you’ll still remember the sound of coquí frogs at dusk, the soft crunch of cobblestones underfoot, and the way the breeze carried the scent of ocean and coffee at the same time.

So yeah, bring your camera. But more importantly, bring your sense of wonder. Because this little gem? It’s got some serious soul.

And once you’ve experienced it, you’ll totally get why people keep coming back.

Waikiki

Surf, Sand, and Sunsets: Your Guide to Waikiki Beach

Picture this: golden sand between your toes, the sound of waves rolling in, and a sky painted in every shade of pink and orange as the sun dips into the Pacific.

That’s Waikiki Beach for you—an iconic slice of paradise where the surf is always up, the vibes are unbeatable, and the sunsets? Pure magic.

Catch a Wave (Even If You’ve Never Surfed Before)

Surfing in Waikiki — Hawaiitours.com. (2025). Available at: https://www.hawaiitours.com/ [Accessed 20 Feb. 2025]

Waikiki isn’t just a beautiful beach—it’s the birthplace of modern surfing. If you’ve ever thought about trying to ride a wave, this is the place to do it. The waves here are mellow and forgiving, making it perfect for beginners.

Sign up for a lesson with one of the many surf schools along the shore, and before you know it, you’ll be standing up on your board, feeling like a total pro. Well, maybe not Kelly Slater-level, but hey, everyone starts somewhere!

Lounge Like a Pro

Lounging at Waikiki Beach — Bathersbeachhouse.com.au. (2025). Available at: https://www.bathersbeachhouse.com.au/ [Accessed 20 Feb. 2025]

Not feeling the urge to get soaked? No worries. Waikiki is also top-tier for beach lounging. Lay out a towel, dig your toes into the sand, and soak up that Hawaiian sunshine. Need a little extra comfort?

Rent a beach chair and umbrella—trust me, you’ll thank yourself when that midday sun starts flexing. And if you get too warm, just take a dip in those crystal-clear waters. It’s basically nature’s air conditioning.

Sunset Strolls and Mai Tais

As the day winds down, Waikiki Beach transforms into a front-row seat for one of the most breathtaking sunsets on the planet. Stroll along the shore, camera in hand, or grab a beachfront seat at one of the legendary bars, like Duke’s Waikiki.

Order up a Mai Tai, let the island breeze do its thing, and just vibe. It’s the kind of moment that makes you forget about emails, deadlines, and that pile of laundry back home.

The Food Scene: Aloha for Your Taste Buds

Poke Bowl Waikiki — Tn-cloud.net. (2025). Available at: https://wpcdn.us-east-1.vip.tn-cloud.net [Accessed 20 Feb. 2025]

You can’t visit Waikiki without indulging in its food scene. Start your day with a massive plate of fluffy macadamia nut pancakes or a refreshing açai bowl. For lunch, poke bowls are the way to go—fresh, flavorful, and oh-so-Hawaiian. And dinner?

You’ll find everything from casual beachside food trucks to high-end seafood spots serving up the freshest catch of the day.

Final Thoughts: Just Go Already!

Waikiki Beach is more than just a vacation spot—it’s an experience, a feeling, a little slice of heaven you won’t want to leave.

Whether you’re surfing, sunbathing, sipping on tropical drinks, or just taking in the scenery, one thing’s for sure: this place knows how to deliver a good time. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your sunscreen and get yourself to Waikiki—paradise is calling.

Tips + Planning

Paradise Found: Top Beaches to Explore in St. Thomas

If you’re dreaming of swaying palm trees, turquoise waters, and soft sandy shores, St. Thomas should absolutely be on your radar.

This slice of Caribbean paradise boasts some of the most stunning beaches you’ll ever lay eyes on. Whether you’re craving adventure, relaxation, or just a killer spot for your next Instagram post, there’s a beach here with your name on it. Let’s dive into the best beaches St. Thomas has to offer—trust me, you’re gonna want to pack your sunscreen.

Magens Bay: The Crown Jewel

Magens Bay is the kind of place that makes postcards look dull. Consistently ranked among the world’s most beautiful beaches, this mile-long stretch of white sand is perfect for just about anything—swimming, sunbathing, or simply zoning out with a good book.

The water’s calm, crystal-clear, and warm enough to make you forget all about your work emails back home. Bonus: there’s a bar and snack shack nearby, so you’ll never be too far from a cold drink or a quick bite.

Sapphire Beach: A Snorkeler’s Paradise

If underwater adventures are your jam, head straight to Sapphire Beach. The coral reefs here are teeming with marine life, so don’t forget your snorkel gear. And when you’re ready to dry off, you’ll find plenty of shade under the sea grape trees or a comfy spot at the nearby beachside restaurant.

The views of neighboring islands from this beach? Absolutely next-level. You might even catch yourself thinking, “Do I really have to leave?” Spoiler alert: You won’t want to.

Lindquist Beach: The Hidden Gem

For those who prefer their beaches a little less crowded, Lindquist Beach is where it’s at. Tucked inside Smith Bay Park, this spot is a local favorite and for good reason. The powdery sand and sparkling blue water make it feel like your own private paradise.

Plus, it’s a great place for families, with shallow waters perfect for little ones. Bring a picnic, stake out a spot, and soak up the peaceful vibes—you’ll be glad you did.

Coki Point Beach: Vibrant and Lively

If you’re all about energy and fun, Coki Point Beach is your go-to. This lively spot is popular with locals and visitors alike for its vibrant atmosphere. The snorkeling here is top-notch, thanks to the nearby coral reef, and the beachside vendors serve up everything from fresh seafood to rum punches that pack a punch. Oh, and if you’re a fan of people-watching, this is the spot.

Secret Harbour Beach: Tranquil Bliss

Looking for a romantic escape or a quiet corner to unwind? Secret Harbour Beach lives up to its name. This serene beach is ideal for couples or anyone who just wants to chill out and let the world melt away.

The calm waters make it a great spot for paddleboarding, while the on-site restaurant offers delicious meals with a view. Trust me, “a little slice of heaven” isn’t an exaggeration here.

Hull Bay: The Surfer’s Retreat

When the waves are up, Hull Bay is the place to be. This beach is a favorite among surfers, but it’s also great for fishing and kayaking. The laid-back vibe is perfect for those who prefer their beaches without the crowds.

Pro tip: stick around for the sunset. Watching the sky turn shades of orange and pink over the water is nothing short of magical.

Let’s Wrap This Up!

St. Thomas is basically a beach lover’s dream come true. From the iconic beauty of Magens Bay to the secluded charm of Lindquist Beach, there’s something here for everyone.

So whether you’re planning to snorkel, sip cocktails, or simply lounge the day away, you’ll find your own slice of paradise on this breathtaking island. Now, the only question left is: which beach will you visit first?