WHAT TO DO IN BORACAY?

Are you staying in Boracay and you have nothing to do, do not spend all of your time in the white beach, how about you try to explore the island a little bit more?

There are 13 of them and they are not too far away from one another because Boracay is a small island that is only approximately 7 kilometers long. To best illustrate where these beaches are located, see the map below:

Puka Shell Beach

Named after ‘Puka‘ shells (shells of cone snails that are bead-like objects that is normally used in making beach anklets, bracelets, and necklaces) this beach is the next crowd favorite in Boracay. Truth be told, it’s simple surroundings is similar as that of White Beach back when it wasn’t so cramped yet. (Simply catch a ride with a tricycle and you’re bound to reach this place in just 20 minutes from White Beach).

 Ilig-iligan Beach

With the same white sand feature, this is a great spot for snorkeling and it has some scenic limestone islets that you can explore. I believe that there are two of these islets: one is deep and the other, shallow. To reach this beach, there are two ways: either join an island-hopping trip that has a stopover here or just simply walk inland from the White Beach. 

Lapus-Lapus Beach

To the best of my knowledge, this beautiful stretch is privately-owned by the Fairways & Bluewater Newcoast Resort and that it is only open to their guests. It really has that feel of seclusion to it, so if you want to visit this part, you have to book into the resort.

Bulabog Beach

If you’re into beach sports like kiteboarding, parasailing, and windsurfing then this is the beach for you! You will instantly feel the vibrant vibe due to these adrenaline-pumped water activities done by local and tourists alike, so if you’re for this kind of thing, make sure to book a hotel in this part of the island.

Lagutan Beach

This is actually one of the places where boats dock in Boracay. Though it may not be as scenic as the others, photographers may find the charm of this place frame-worthy.

Tulubhan Beach

There are some local villages that live by this beach and they typically go to the sea to look for seafood like fish, urchins, and more. With decent resorts here and there, Tulubhan can be a nice place to stay in if you’re looking for a quiet getaway.

 Tambisaan Beach

Tambisaan is popular for its coral gardens and reefs that are just near the shore. For this, you can simply bring your gear with you and then take your own sweet time snorkeling in these waters.

Crocodile Beach

This is a small nearby island at the southeast part of Boracay. Often a trip that comes along in prearranged tours, it’s a favorite destination for underwater activities given the abundant and unspoiled marine life in this area. What’s more is that there are also small canyons where you can see some sea snakes.

Manoc-Manoc Beach

A lot of locals play here so it can be a bit crowded, but despite the low-key attractiveness of the landscape, it can be a quaint change of scene.

Cagban Beach

Much like Lagutan, this is one of the boat docks in the island (it’s actually the main port), but somewhere near this area, you can find private spots to relax in under the sun.

Diniwid Beach

This is close to White Beach’s Station 1 and it is full of backpacker-friendly resorts. What I like about this place (that is only 200m long) are the stunning cliff side views! To add, there is also a crowd favorite here called Spider House and it is a great place to hangout. Otherwise, you can lounge in the water or lie down on a floating wooden piece that they have set up.

Balinghai Beach

Yet another small private beach but this time, owned by Balinghai Resort and it has a lovely view. Unlike Lapus-Lapus, they permit non-resort guests as long as you pay the entrance fee (wherein the value is consumable in food from the restaurant). With this in mind, take advantage of the scenery by eating your meals by the beach! Just take note that during high tide, the beach is almost entirely submerged so time it on the low tide.

 Punta Bunga & Banyugan Beach

An additional private beach of the island, this piece of land is owned by the big chain: Shangri-La Resorts. I have to say that this part of the beach is very idyllic (hence the reason why Shangri-La bought it) and since it’s only open to in-house guests of the resort, if you have the budget, this is a great place to book yourself into.

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PARASAILING ADVENTURE

Every now and then, you have to do something outside of your comfort zone. Push yourself. Challenge yourself. Be a little crazy !

The sun was shining, the sky was blue and the weather incredible for our last day of adventures on the island of Boracay. You will take a short stroll to Station 1, the departure point for all water activities on the island. And you will meet up with your guide, before jumping on a little speedboat out to a floating pontoon about a kilometre off the coast.

There is an incredible choice of water-based activities in Boracay. Helmet diving, banana boat’s, flyfish, island hopping, cliff jumping, paraw sailing, stand-up paddle boarding, jetski’s, kiteboarding and more – it’s an adrenalin junkies dream!

Our target for today is Parasailing!

The main departure point for all water sports in Boracay.

After arriving on the pontoon, we jumped aboard a larger boat, owned and run by Diamond Watersports to head further out to sea for our parasailing adventure. We were so impressed with the beautiful boat and the quality and how comfortable it was.

The beautiful boats that form part of the fleet of Diamond Watersports are next level!

After getting comfy on the boat, you will then be strapped into your harnesses which clipped under your legs and across your chest and over your shoulders – designed to sit in whilst being suspended from the sail. Then you will climbed up to the back of the boat where you will then clipped into the parasail, the winch rope then attached to the sail.

Up, up and away!

“It’s a hard feeling to describe – we were both screaming out in joy/fear, laughing and freaking out all at once as we were slowly let our further and further, higher and higher – the boat becoming a small speck in the distance! It took a minute or so to get to the full height – the rope length was 150 metres in total, and we were flying well over 100 metres high.” – Amy.

Our tiny little speed boat in the distance!

“We really had no idea what to expect parasailing – I think we were expecting this stomach churning, fast flight behind the back of a boat – but instead, it’s incredibly peaceful. We sat in our harnesses, legs dangling feeling as though we were floating through the air. It was so quiet, and the views were magnificent. Boracay is only a small island, and at 7 kilometres in total length we could see the entire stretch of it from the sky. Flying late in the afternoon was particular scenic as the sun was low in the sky, casting an incredible glow over the island and the ocean.” - Mike

The setting sun over Boracay was stunning from a bird’s eye view.

“Whilst floating above the speedboat below, we spoke to each other about our present feelings – Mike was a little fearful and explained that even though he’d done way scarier things in the past (having been a member of our State Emergency Service back in Australia), parasailing was unnerving him a little – he felt that it was the lack of control in our current situation that was the likely reason for the fear – we were completely at the mercy of the equipment and the staff below us. Despite the fear though, we both knew we were completely safe and decided to enjoy the view and peacefulness that surrounded us.

After a flight of about 15 minutes, we slowly began to be winched back towards the boat. We were given the option to be ‘dunked’ in the water but we decided we’d rather stay dry, and landed back aboard the boat instead. What a crazy experience! Even though I’d not been scared or fearful during the flight, the second I got up to sit back on the boat my legs were total jelly – I could barely walk!” – Amy

Coming into land and capturing the moment on the GoPro!My post-parasailing progression as the adrenaline wore off and the motion sickness set in!

As what they have said, it would be best to spend with someone special and experience the rush together. Now, that’s what parasailing is!

Parasailing in Boracay is glorious!

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MOUNT LUHO ZIPLINE ADVENTURE

We love to seek out adrenaline-fueled activities when we travel. Experiences that you can’t have elsewhere are always on our must-do list. Boracay is the adventure capital of the Philippines – you can do pretty much everything on the island – whether young or old, solo or a couple or a family with children, there’s something for everyone!

Zip-lining is one of the most favorite activities of all time –loving that rush and the feeling of flying! And one of the best option is the zip-line in Boracay, which is about 620 meters long, 100 meters above sea level.

So you will start the activity by getting picked up by the company shuttle from the center of town along with your tour guide and be taken to the Happy Planet Zip-line and Cable Car Station. Located on the highest point of the island, the station offers a beautiful panoramic view over the island’s only golf course, resorts and one of its beautiful beaches.

Unlike the other zip-lining courses you’ve done, this one differed – you’d be flying superman style! That’s right – instead of sitting upwards and holding on – and being in charge of stopping ourselves – this time you’ll lying down on our bellies, strapped in from above, arms outstretched! Rather than having to essentially be your own ‘brakes’, the zip-line came to a gradual stop with someone at the other end to catch us. I loved the idea of that – coming to a stop is usually the scariest part when zip lining, so I was glad to know I wouldn’t have to worry so much!

The other fantastic part of the zip-line was that there were two lines running – this meant that you had the option to go along with your travel buddy! You have the option to either zip-line tandem style – sharing the same line – or at the same time but on your own line each. It’s great to have the option, as because there’s always two of you there’s usually one person always having to go first, rather than getting to enjoy the experience together.

Helmets strapped firmly on and clipped into your ‘superman’ style harness, you will hold onto the barrier, looking over the edge…. and we were off! There’s nothing that quite describes the feeling of flying through the air, arms outstretched, soaring over the trees and buildings! You will definitely enjoy superman style of zip-lining – You could look all around you, back towards your buddy without it throwing my balance like sitting upright does.

Then you will slow down in the last ten seconds of the zip-lining, coming into a gradual stop before connecting with a weighted barrier on the line, and then a second one that stopped us completely – it’s so great to know there’s no chance of you slamming into the wall, like the other zip-lines we’ve been on!

Climbing up a flight of stairs, the way back to the station was via an open air cable car – it’ll give you an opportunity to view all the things you’d missed as you whizzed by moments earlier! The aerial view of the island of Boracay gives you the opportunity to see just how much of a paradise island it really is – everywhere you look, green leafy palm trees, white sandy beaches and turquoise waters!

 We highly recommend it! Even if heights aren’t your thing – it wasn’t too high, and didn’t go too fast – so give it a go! It’s a fantastic way to see the island from above and get that picture perfect selfie!

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4HRS OF ISLAND HOPPING ADVENTURE

So what happens during your 4 hour island hopping activity?

The beautiful island of Boracay in the Philippines was recently named the number one island destination in the world. When you step foot on it’s famous White Beach, it’s easy to see why it was awarded such a title.

To really see the beauty of Boracay though, you need to step away from White Beach – whilst beautiful, it can get quite crowded in the busy season. It’s most magical when it’s seen from the water – and an island hopping tour in Boracay is the best way to experience this!

At only 7 kilometers long and 500 meters wide at the most narrow point, an island hopping tour around Boracay can be easily done in a half day. 

On a beautiful blue sunny day on White Beach. We hopped aboard a bangka –  a traditional Filipino boat moored directly on the shore and took off to explore the island.

 

You'll completely be awestruck by the crystal clear waters, Boracay have several laws which helps maintain the cleanliness of the ocean. Every year a coastal clean up is conducted to clean the ocean of any rubbish that might be around. Large fines are in place for practices such as smoking or urinating on any of the beaches.

First stop for the Island Hopping is Puka beach, the water is so crystal clear, pristine, the most stunning turquoise colour and the perfect temperature. Located in the northern most part of Boracay Island, the white beach stretches for approximately 800 meters, which is more than enough for you to find your own cozy space while enjoying the quick stop over.

"Puka Shell" has become more widely used to refer to the beach because of the abundance of crushed shells mixed in within the white sand. This is why walking on Puka Beach is a distinct experience but don't worry, the sand is still smooth on the soles of your feet. Puka Shell Beach is long but has less development. It does not have a plethora of clubs and hotels like white beach. The reason behind it is that the local government tries to conserve Puka Beach, the way it is now for the future generation. Thus, the atmosphere here is more serene and more authentic. 

After a quick stop over, you will be making way slowly around the northern end of Boracay and down the Eastern side, passing more magnificent beaches, stunning coastlines and jagged rocks and picture-perfect resorts. Next stop for the Island Hopping tour is a snorkeling spot adjacent to Crocodile Island, though the snorkeling spot might vary depending on the current.

So ready those waterproof camera's, sports camera's and GoPro's since you will be needing a lot of memory to save everything for the next activity. Leaning over the boat and being able to actually see the marine life at Crocodile Island is something you might call a magical experience and before you knew it, you have donned a lifejacket, jumped into the water and was putting on a snorkel mask. Snorkeling gears will definitely be provided to you!

The 45 minute snorkeling stop on your Island Hopping tour might just be one of the most memorable moments during your Island Hopping Tour. It was just magical –  If it's your first time, you will definitely comeback for a second time. If you missed snorkeling before, you will see what you missed out. The coral, the reefs, the fish! The amount of fish that you will see will make you think that it's unbelievable – every type and colour under the sun, including the famous clownfish – I found Nemo! (that is if you're lucky enough)

After enjoying a good view of the marine life that Boracay can offer, you will now move to your next stop, which is Crystal Cove. Crystal cove has an entrance fee of Php 200.00/ person.  Crystal Cove Island is home to restaurants, eating spots, photo opportunities, little huts and a small museum – a great stop for a respite if you’re out and about on the water all day.

A quick snapshot for the Island.

Below is a mini-map

After you're done taking selfies and photo's to your heart's content, you will move to the next stop-over which is adjacent to Crystal Cove. A small island which is dedicated for the sole purpose of the thrill seekers, the adrenaline rush junkie, the adventurers, the dare devils - an island for CLIFF JUMPING.

Magic Island is known to be a great alternative if you don't want to do the Ariel's Point but you want to try cliff jumping, with an entrance fee of Php 200.00/person - you get to enjoy unlimited cliff jumping and they also have foods and drinks serve if you want to buy something while taking a quick rest. Others may consider cliff jumping a dangerous activity but no worries, your safety is always on top of the list. We have life guards below the planks, waiting and ready to save you in case there is trouble after you landed into the water. We also have security guard, staffs from Magic Island, which manages the cliff jumping activities, giving you signals of when you can jump or when not to jump since there is still someone below the plank. So conquer your fear and jump to your heart's content.

And after an exhausting but fulfilling adventures for the Island Hopping activity, it would do no justice for our hungry stomach not to be filled with sumptuous and delicious meal, so the last stop over for the 4 hour Island Hopping activity is - SEAFOOD LUNCH. Prepared with love. A meal which will definitely satiate your hunger.

 Contact us now so that we can provide you the activity you want!

We're giving FREE Tour guide assistance if you book with us!

For more details and inquiries please contact the following info:

Email: info@boracayadventures.com 

Contact #: 036 288 2032 • +63 920 970 2728 • +63 918 941 6239

WeChat id: masterpetertay

Skype id: boracayadventures

Fb acc: @boracayadventures.com

Website: www.boracayadventures.com

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BE A VOLUNTEER! JOIN THE PHILIPPINE COAST GUARD AUXILIARY TODAY!!!

Last May 21 - 23 2015 was the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary (PCGA) 31st National Convention held at Legazpi City, Albay. It was attended by more than 500 delegates all over Philippines. The theme for 2015 is " A Strong PCGA In Today's Changing Environment" aims to further strengthen the PCGA in its continuous effort to promote safety of life and property at sea, protect maritime environment and its resources, conduct maritime search and rescue and engage in activities to enhance maritime community relations. 

At the start of the convention, 6 Officers from Western Visayas received the Dolphin Service Award from the Commandant of Philippine Coast Guard; ADM Rodolfo D Isorena. Dolphin Service Award is the highest Award an Officer can receive after giving more than 20years of volunteer services to the organization. All 6 Officers were from Western VIsayas but 4 of them, were from Boracay Island under Squadron 609th. COMMO Leonard Tirol (Soon To Be Rear Admiral), COMMO Miguel Labatiao, CAPT Rufo Sacapano and CAPT Dionisio Salme. 

These Officers are successful businessmen in the island but instead of just enjoying their lives in the island, they are giving their time to volunteerism. They are one of the pillars that build Boracay Island! They set examples for many businessmen, always encouraging people to give it back to what they have received in the island. Men of Grace! Always ready to render their service and giving their love to Boracay Island.

Be a volunteer! Join the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary Squadron 609 Boracay. Make a difference in your life today and join one of the biggest non-profit organization in the Philippines. In recognition of the important role and contribution of the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary and its members, the Legislators deemed it necessary to incorporate in Republic Act No. 9993, other wish known as the "Philippine Coast Guard Law of 2009", a provision which clearly defines the establishment of the PCGA as a civilian volunteer organization formed to assist the Philippine Coast Guard in the promotion of safety of life and property at sea, the preservation of the marine environment and its resources, the conduct of maritime search and rescue, the maintenance of aids to navigation, recreational safety and such other activities that enhance maritime community relations which include civic action, participation under the National Service Training Program, youth development and other related activities.

Anybody and everybody can join! We just need a heart full of grace and a soul generated with love. For more information of the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary, please log on to www.pcga609boracay.org or email us info@pcga609boracay.org. 

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LOSS OF MY DOG

Last May 12, I woke up with one of the worse news in my life! My dog of 13 years; “Beauty” pass away in the Veterinary Clinic and I was told he pass away at 2300hrs on May 11. I was sadden by the news but still need to be a professional and went ahead with my scuba instructions, I just text them to wrap her body with a towel and inform that I will collect her body later.

While underwater, I thought of many good memories we were together. After deciding to stay in the Philippines, I decide to get myself a pet and bought Beauty when she was just 2months old, remembering how she was sleeping and how cute she was. We went to many places in the Philippines even making trips to Boracay. She was always around when I need a shoulder to cry on. When I was single, I never felt lonely. We were together in so many phases in my life from being single to marry and single again, she has always been there. In good or bad times, she has always been there!

At times I wish time can move slowly but as the years goes by, I know one day she will eventually leave before me. Every year on her birthday, I always tell her to live another year for me. I was so caught up with my work last May 1 and forgot about her birthday. Perhaps I didn’t wish her to live another year for me. Last May 11, looking at how long her hair, I sent her to Shoreline Veterinary Clinic to avail their grooming services. I told them to cut short her hair, nails and clean her ears but I received a text in the afternoon that they also did a cleansing on her mouth. I didn’t expect anything harmful since we normally trust a doctor to be professional even though she gave me a list of things she done and how much it cost without my approval.

When I got her in the afternoon, I realized something different about her. She was in a daze and couldn’t recognize my voice. I realized she was given anesthesia without my approval but was assured by the physician that she will be okay after 2hours. I went to get Beauty and to my surprise she was still in a daze but was assured she will be okay. When she was home, she was shaking even the room temperature was normal. I called the clinic and advised to send her back to the clinic. She was given medication without giving me any explanation and advised to be back the next day.

I was just given the news in the morning that Beauty pass away at 2300hrs on May 11 but why they didn’t inform me about it so that I can see her for the last time?!? When I told them to wrap her body with my towel, I found out she was place in a plastic bag like a trash. When I collect her body, there was no remorse in their eyes, they don’t seem to be bothered and just get busy dealing with another pet in the shop. Do they really care as a Veterinarian or are they taking advantage on pet lovers?!?

All pet lovers in Boracay Island! Beware of Dr. Ginaclin S. Dalisay and her staffs of "SHORELINE VETERINARY CLINIC" if you don't want your pet to die for no reasons. If they consulted me about the treatment, I will say no since my dog is too old to go through all these procedures. Honestly, I don’t expect her to live long but I do not wish her to die in such situation! I hope another pet lovers will not experience the pain I went through. I really regret sending her to the clinic, she may be able to live another few more years with me if they could have act more professionally. She died an innocent death on the hands of “SHORELINE VETERINARY CLINIC”

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