Boracay water sports and activities
Kitesurfers do their thing on Bulabog Beach
While many people travel to the picturesque island of Boracay to unwind for a while and are content to simply soak up the sun on the beach and sip cocktails, those who like to stay active and explore will find plenty of opportunities here.
The tourism industry is well established on this popular yet unspoilt island, and most of the larger resorts offer a wide range of activity packages, which include snorkelling and scuba diving trips and trekking through the jungle. Independent travellers will also be in their element here, as getting around is easy and there is no shortage of interesting places to explore.
Scuba diving in Boracay
Boracay is one of the most popular destinations in the whole of the Philippines for scuba diving, as the waters here are cool, clear and full of colourful coral and marine life.
Even novice divers will be able to get a lot from their experience, as trips are run by experienced and certified divers, and lessons are offered at a number of places. PADI courses including 'taster' and Open Water certificates are also available.
There are more than 30 enchanting dive sites to explore off the shores of Boracay, meaning that visitors will be able to spend plenty of time delving into the watery underworld here. All equipment is provided, and some of the best companies to go with include Calypso Diving School, Safari Divers, New Wave Divers and Victory Divers. More on diving in Boracay.
Parasailing on Boracay
The perfect way to experience the beauty of White Beach from a fresh angle is by flying over it, and parasailing can be arranged at places such as Diamond Watersports (tel: (036) 288 6621), Station 1, Mandarin Hotel (tel: (036) 910 4203), Station 2 and Seraph Hotel (tel: (036) 288 6672).
Kite-boarding on Boracay
Banca gets ready for a sailing trip
Kiteboarding or kitesurfing is another popular sport on Boracay, especially at Bulabog Beach, where a couple of companies offer the chance to try this extreme sport between the months of November and March. Lessons are also offered by the specially certified instructors at the Isla Kite-boarding School and Pinas Kite-boarding centre. More on kitesurfing in Boracay.
Sailing on Boracay
Sailing is a great way to appreciate the natural beauty of Boracay, and a type of sailboat known as a paraw can be rented here. Sailors will be able to take their time travelling around the island, pausing at several or all of the island’s 12 beaches to swim, snorkel and admiring the sunset from the deck.
Jet-skiing and speedboating
Those who feel the need for speed can rent jet-skis and speedboats from a number of companies on Boracay, and the reasonable rate includes a guide that comes along for the ride to ensure a safe trip.
Helicopter adventures
Skimming over the island in a helicopter is an unforgettable experience and island tours and special sunset trips departs from the Heliport that can be found at Cagban Port.
Golf on Boracay
Keen golfers will not go wanting with an excellent golf course on Boracay. The Fairways and Bluewater Resort Golf and Country Club offers an 18-hole Boracay golf course that was designed by Graham March (Newcoast, Balabag, tel: (036) 288 5587).
Spas and pampering on Boracay
Those who want to treat themselves to a little pampering will find some excellent spas on Boracay, where the talented masseurs ensure that visitors leave looking and feeling fantastic. The most luxurious spas need to be located in resorts such as the Mandarin Hotel at White Beach and the Danaru Spa at Bulabog Beach and offer an excellent range of treatments to choose from. More on Boracay spas.
Staying fit in Boracay
Many of Boracay’s leading hotels and resorts come complete with fully equipped gyms for those who want to stay in shape, and some of the best include the Boracay Beach Club and the Shangri-La Boracay Resort and Spa.
