After setting foot in the soft, powder sand of White Beach, you will probably be tempted to stay put all day. The warm azure water and lines of palm trees all set the scene for what is one of the world’s greatest beaches. Yet, Boracay offers you a lot more than just a perfect day on the beach. There are a lot of ways to enjoy yourself on this island in the heart of The Philippines. Here are 10 things that would make your trip to Boracay one for the books.
1. Ariel’s Point:
Ariel’s Point is a favorite for anyone looking to jump off of cliffs and drink some beers. This 6-hour trip is reasonably priced and includes transportation to the point and back, cliff jumping, snorkeling, kayaking, an all-you-can-eat buffet, and of course, is all-you-can-drink. You have a choice of soft drinks, beer, or the notorious rum and coke.
2. Parasailing:
Get high up in the air and catch an overhead view of the sublime scenery.  You’ll have the wind running through your hair, which seems to take all of your cares with it. Make sure your camera is waterproof. Splashing down in the ocean at the end of the ride won’t do your regular camera much good.
3. Island Hopping:
You have a couple of options when you sign up for island hopping. You can do a 3-hour version, or the full 6 hours. If you pick the 3-hour trip, just be aware that you actually don’t visit any islands. It’s just a snorkeling trip. Deceptive name, I know. It is still a great time though. You get a private boat and see some cool fish and coral. The 6-hour tour sets you up with all of the above, plus a full BBQ on a different beach. Both choices are a great way to spend some time on the water, soaking up the sun.
4. Scuba Diving:
You can get your PADI here, or just go out for some fun. There are a lot of different companies offering a wide range of services along White Beach. Despite this, the prices are pretty much fixed across the board, so there isn’t much point in shopping around. When you do get out there, the waters are warm and clear, and there is a good amount of ocean life to observe.
5. Rent a Jet Ski:
Going out for a rip on the water in a Jet Ski gets the blood pumping and sticks a smile on your face all day. You can rent them at numerous places for 30 minutes or a full hour. It’s one of the pricier activities, but all of the best things in life will cost a little bit more.
6. Watch the Sunset on a Boat:
Even if you aren’t the romantic type, this boat ride is not one to miss. If the skies are clear, this will rival any sunset you’ve seen; plus, you’re on a boat, and that makes everything better. You can opt for a booze cruise, or a private boat, depending on your taste. You’ll get back to shore afterwards with plenty of time to enjoy the rest of the night.
7. Get a Massage:
You can’t walk more than 20 meters along the beach without seeing a place to get a massage. Tables are set up along the beach, and spas are scattered along the strip. Even some resorts offer massages to passersby. The beach front temporary set ups are the cheapest options, and the spas run from pretty cheap to surprisingly expensive (relatively speaking).
8. Rent an ATV:
Need a break from the sand between your toes? Check out what else the island has to offer in a badass way. You can rent a quad for yourself, or a buggy for you and a buddy. Take it out for an hour, or the whole day if you’re feeling really adventurous. Just like most things, don’t be afraid to shop around. It’s a buyer’s market and these guys are expecting a haggle.
9. Stand Up Paddleboarding:
As long as you’re on White Beach, SUP is a great choice. Not so much on Bulabog Beach, which is a haven for kiteboarders, due to the wind and waves. Rent your gear from pretty much any place you want, and spend some quality time on the water.
10. Kiteboarding:
You can get lessons if you’ve never tried Kiteboarding before, but be warned, you will be hooked. Having Mother Nature pull you along the water is an experience that very few people don’t want to repeat. If you’ve been kiteboarding before, you probably know that this is the best spot in Asia to hit up.
Bonus: Helicopter Tour:
This didn’t make the top 10 because of the likelihood that the 4500 peso/15 min price tag per person is an expense that most people aren’t looking to spend.  That’s a lot of other activities and drinks out the window in 15! However, if you are the type to go big or go home, you cannot, under any circumstance, get a better view than this. Don’t forget your camera.
There you have it, 10 things to get you off the beach and make the most of your time in Boracay.
If you are planning your trip, and have any questions, feel free to contact me at Mike@MikeGoesMIA.com
