Top 20 Fascinating Facts About Boracay

Top 15 Fascinating Facts about Boracay

*Originally published by Felix on July 2022 and Updated by Vanessa R on June 2023 and Updated by Purity on May 2024

Boracay is a resort island that is located in the western Visayas of the Philippines region and about 0.8km off the Panay coast. The island covers an area of 10.32 square kilometres and had a population of 32,267 in the year 2015.

Apart from the sand beaches, the island is very popular as a destination for relaxation. It was also awarded in 2012 by the international travel magazine as the best island in the world.

The residents claim that it got the name Boracay from the local word “borac” which means “white cotton”. The colour white and the texture originated from the white sugary and powdery sand.

It is a luxurious island offering a variety of comfort and enjoyment which includes jet-skiing, kite surfing, windsurfing, and boating.

The island also has magnificent features such as beautiful marine life, powder-white sand, and crystal-blue waters.

Below are the 20  fascinating facts about Boracay

1. It was Awarded the Best Island Destination

Boracay beach. Photo courtesy of Deortiz. Wikimedia Commons

Boracay is a globally recognized island and continues to gain accolades from various organizations worldwide. It was awarded the best island destination by the travel and leisure magazines in 2012.

It was also named the world’s most amazing beaches by the Bridal Guide Magazine. It has been ranked as the top 25 best beaches in Asia by trip advisors.

It is a real paradise in Asia’s Southeast and a destination for tranquility and nightlife. It offers the best site for weddings, honeymoons, and marriage proposals.

2. The Island was Closed for Rehabilitation

The entire Boracay Island was closed for rehabilitation purposes in May 2018. President Rodrigo Duterte ordered its closure due to the worsening environmental conditions of the island.

The full closure of the island took place in April 2018 for the rehabilitation to take place and to resolve other environmental issues.

The government also deployed about 200 soldiers to ensure the security of the island during the period it was shut down.

Later in October 2018, the island was reopened to the public but, some infrastructures were in progress.

3. Boracay Island is a Tourist Attraction Site

Boracy white beach. Photo courtesy of Tuderna. Wikimedia Commons

The island receives a lot of tourists specifically in the amihan season due to the winds and weather.

The White beach is located on the western side of Boracay Island and it’s sheltered from the winds. The beautiful white beach is usually Glass-smooth during the Amihan season.

The island also hosts beautiful five-star resorts that offer an exclusive experience to tourists.

The stunning view of the sunset and the nightlife are major tourist attractions.

4. Increased Coliform Bacteria Declined Tourist’s Arrival

Boracay Island experienced a massive increase in coliform bacteria since the 1990s which caused the decline of tourism by 60 percent.

Installation of a solid waste disposal system and potable water system could have been a remedy to reduce environmental degradation.

In 2004 the various households and hotels did not have effective sewerage systems which increased environmental concerns.

The water body experienced mass algae growth in 2015 as a result of sewerage disposal on the island. However, this was resolved in 2018 after the government closed the island for the renovation exercise.

5. Enjoyable Leisure Activities Are Available on or near Boracay

A ferris wheel at D’Mall, Boracay, Philippines. Photo by Sarahr. Wikimedia Commons

The island has many remarkable leisure activities that are not so common in other places around the world. These activities include; kiteboarding, scuba diving, windsurfing, parasailing, cliff diving, golf and snorkeling.

It also contains more than 350 beach resorts that offer about 2000 rooms that range from five-star to pocket-friendly accommodations.

It also contains other enjoyment facilities such as nightclubs, bars, pubs, and restaurants.

6. There are two Seasonal Weather Patterns in Boracay

The two weather patterns are known as Amihan and the Habagat seasons. Amihan means the cool northern winds while Habagat means west or the southwest winds according to the Visayan language.

The Amihan season is distinguished by the little or no rainfall, winds prevailing from the northeast, and moderate temperatures.

Habagat on the other side has frequent heavy rainfall, winds prevailing from the west, and hot weather.

7. The Island has been a Sports Competitive Venue

Boracay_kitesurfing. Photo by Anastasia Zhebyuk. Wikimedia Commons

Boracay has always been the venue for the competition of the Asian Windsurfing tour. The Boracay International Funboard Cup competition is held in January on Bulabog Beach for the whole week.

The dragon boat race is held annually on Boracay Island that attracts teams from Philippine and Asian nations to compete.

The Boracay Open Asian Beach Ultimate Tournament event is held annually and attracts competitors from the Philippines and other international nations.

8. The Rich Biodiversity of the Island Faced Degradation Threats

The biodiversity was threatened as a result of water pollution that affected the marine ecosystem.

The threats also emerged from the buildings of mushrooms in timberland, the beachfront as well as the wetland. This caused the degradation of the important ecosystem that would maintain sustainable ecotourism.

The government interventions helped to save some of the special ecosystems that could have been permanently degraded.

9. The Island is Accessible Through Various Means – Including a Leisurely Walk

Boracay Island is separated from Panay Island by a strait and people move across by a boat that is operated from the Caticlan jetty port.

Kalibo International Airport and Godofredo P. Ramos Airport are the two main airports that serve Boracay.

Other means of transport include motorbikes, mountain bikes, and Quadbrikes, all of which can be hired at a pocket-friendly price.

Visitors also have fun walking along the beaches, traveling via motor-tricycles and the electric-tricycle along the road.

10. The Island’s Splendor Could Not be Locked by the Covid 

Boracay Island was closed to tourism as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020. The workers and the residents were also not allowed entry.

Visitors who came into the area with confirmed Covid-19 cases were quarantined for 14 days. Late in the year, the government reopened tourism which helped to revive the industry.

11. Boracay’s sand is often referred to as one of the finest in the world

The sand of Boracay is often seen as some of the best in the world. Without question, Asia’s most beautiful beach is White Beach, the island’s major beach. Bulabog Beach, where kitesurfing is legal, and the famous Puka Beach, sometimes called Shell Beach, are stunning beaches in Boracay.

Diniwid Beach, which is a little further away and has a more relaxed attitude, can be visited through an undercliff boardwalk. Because of its fantastic beaches, the island of Boracay is unquestionably a must-see.

12. They have many types of fish

Buying fresh fish from the neighbourhood market and having it prepared to your preferences in one of the “paluto” restaurants is the best and most authentic (as well as the least expensive) way to have a seafood feast on Boracay (aka cooking services). A boodle fight can also be set up. You won’t want to pass up this delicious meal with fresh fish and delicate meats.

13. They have traditional festivals

Each year in January, Aklan honours Santo Nio with the Ati-Atihan Festival, which features vibrant parades, tribal dance, and music. This celebration is regarded as one of the best in the nation and is frequently called Mardi Gras in the Philippines.

14. Boracay has the biggest variety of foodie places

yuichiro anazawa, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

After Manila and Cebu, Boracay has the greatest number of dining options for foodies. While it is more difficult to locate local food carts and markets, Boracay is unquestionably the location to experience a tonne of fantastic cafes, coffee shops, and restaurants.

Many hotels along the White Beach set up their tables on the sand at night. It can definitely make for a spectacular lunch when combined with the sparkling lights and the sound of the water lapping at your feet.

15. Boracay is now moving towards sustainable tourism

The Wandering Angel, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

After years of uncontrolled growth and commercialism, Boracay is gradually shifting towards environmentally friendly tourism. A six-month closure and later reopening with updated ecotourism guidelines occurred in 2018 as part of the rehabilitation phase.

It is forbidden to engage in activities that cause noise or air pollution. This includes smoking. Also, there are restrictions on how many people may attend each day and single-use plastics are no longer permitted.

16. Island hopping is a popular activity 

 You can visit nearby islands like Crystal Cove, Magic Island, and Puka Shell Beach, each offering unique attractions and experiences. Crystal Cove is known for its picturesque caves and snorkeling spots, while Magic Island is a favorite for cliff diving.

Puka Shell Beach, named for its abundance of puka shells, offers a more tranquil escape from the busier parts of Boracay. Island hopping tours often include stops at vibrant coral reefs for snorkeling and provide opportunities for swimming, picnicking, and exploring. These tours offer a perfect way to experience the natural beauty and diversity of the region’s islands.

17. Boracay has a vibrant nightlife

 Boracay transforms into a hub of activity after dark. Its bustling bars with live music and friendly locals create the perfect atmosphere to unwind and have a good time.

Photo by Michael Discenza on Unsplash

Dance the night away at nightclubs with energetic beats, or find a cozy cocktail bar with stunning ocean views and enjoy a drink under the starlit sky.  Fire dancers and live bands frequently perform along the beach, adding to the festive vibe.

18. Mount Luho is the highest point with stunning  views

Located on the northeast side of the island, a trek up this hill offers panoramic views of the entire island and its surrounding waters. The viewpoint at the top features several observation decks and platforms, perfect for capturing stunning photos.

Along the way, you might encounter local wildlife, including colorful birds and butterflies. The trek itself is relatively easy and can be done by foot, bike, or ATV. At the summit, you can enjoy breathtaking vistas of White Beach, Bulabog Beach, and the lush inland areas. Mount Luho is a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers looking to experience Boracay from a different perspective.

19.  Sunsets in Boracay are breathtaking                 

Boracay’s sunsets are legendary. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky is ablaze with vibrant hues of orange, pink, and purple, painting a breathtaking masterpiece. Many beachfront bars and restaurants offer sunset happy hours, where you can enjoy a cocktail while watching the natural spectacle.

Photo by Long (lTiga) Nguyen on Unsplash

Sunset sailing cruises are also popular, providing a tranquil and scenic way to experience the end of the day on the water. For a unique vantage point, head to Mount Luho or Diniwid Beach, where panoramic views make the sunset even more mesmerizing.

20. Willy’s Rock is a famous landmark

 This volcanic rock formation jutting out of the ocean features a statue of the Virgin Mary and is a popular spot for taking photos, especially during sunset. The rock becomes an island during high tide and a part of the beach during low tide, allowing visitors to walk up and admire the shrine up close. The surrounding shallow waters are great for wading and exploring the marine life. Willy’s Rock is not only a picturesque feature of the beach but also a site of local religious significance.

Boracay Island is an attractive place to visit and have, fun, especially during the holidays when the island is flooded. The island offers a variety of leisure and sporting activities for maximum enjoyment. It is also very rich in biodiversity for both the flora and fauna.

The area also contains a variety of transportation means and accommodation facilities suitable for every class of people.