Boracay: 48-Hour Trip to the Island Paradise

Visiting Boracay has always been on my bucket list ever since I was a kid. The allure of its pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters have always mesmerized me. So when the opportunity for my sister and I to visit the island paradise came, we grabbed the opportunity to do so.

We only had around three days and two nights to explore Boracay, 48 hours to be more precise. We were also traveling on a budget, so there were a lot of things we had to consider. While we did not have any concrete itinerary prepared, we were so ready to feel the gentle sea breeze while exploring the many establishments around this island. Read more about our 48-hour trip to Boracay, the island paradise of Malay, Aklan.

Overview of Boracay

Boracay is an island in Malay, Aklan, Philippines. It is famous for its stunning white sand beaches and clear blue waters. People love going there because it’s the perfect spot to unwind, have some fun adventures, and experience a buzzing nightlife. So yeah, it’s totally a hotspot for tourists looking for a chill time, thrilling activities, and a happening party scene.

The island has so much to offer for visitors to have a blast! You can swim and soak up the sun in crystal-clear waters or try out exciting water sports like snorkeling and parasailing. No matter what you’re into, there’s something for everyone here. When the sun sets, the island truly comes alive with an abundance of bars and clubs that offer live music and thrilling fire-dancing shows.

Boracay is not just a paradise for nature lovers. It’s also a food lover’s dream! You’ll find a wide variety of delicious Filipino cuisine served in local restaurants and food stalls. These establishments offer dishes with a focus on fresh seafood, mouthwatering grilled meats, and tropical fruits.

But that’s not all. There are plenty of international cuisine options to satisfy diverse tastes and preferences. As I wandered around Station 2, I was pleasantly surprised to discover a number of Korean restaurants. And if you’re craving something different, you can indulge in Greek, Indian, or Italian dishes at other fantastic international eateries. So, get ready to feast and explore Boracay’s incredible food scene!

Boracay has tons of options when it comes to places to stay, from fancy-schmancy resorts overlooking the beach to pocket-friendly hotels away from the hustle and bustle of tourists. The place we stayed at wasn’t right in front of the beach, but it was just a short stroll away.

Boracay: 48-Hour Trip to the Island Paradise

Day 1

Airport

My sister and I arrived at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 2 early, only to find out that our flight has been delayed. Typhoon Egay has badly hit Northern Luzon, and the monsoon has caused steady rains throughout the country. Even at the airport alone, we already expected that Boracay will be rainy. When bound for Boracay, you can book a trip to one of the two airports in the province of Aklan. The Kalibo International Airport is found in Aklan’s capital town.

The Caticlan Airport (also known as the Godofredo P. Ramos Airport) is located near the ports that would take you to Boracay. For convenience, I suggest taking the latter. In our case, we arrived at Kalibo International Airport because my sister’s boyfriend (who joined our trip) was already waiting for us there. Upon settling, we rode a van bound for Tabon Port. From the airport to Tabon port, it took us around two hours to get there.

Tabon Port

It was raining hard when we arrived at Tabon Port. The port is one of the gateways to Boracay. My sister’s boyfriend told us that due to the strong rains and turbulent waves, we had to ride the boat capable of ferrying us to the island. And they were boarded at Tabon Port.

There are several things to accomplish before you can ride one of the boats. Secure an Environmental fee of Php 150 and a Terminal Fee of Php 100. These fees apply to local tourists who are not Aklanons. After which, you have to pay your fare to get a boat ticket. we paid Php 50 each for the boat. Secure a number and present it to the boat personnel.

YCL Hotel Boracay

Upon arriving in Boracay, we went to YCL Hotel Boracay. Located at the heart of Boracay, the hotel is very near the beach. While it is not a beachfront hotel, it only takes you around five minutes of walking to reach the beach. D’Mall, on the other hand, is less than a kilometer away. Check-in is at 2:00 PM, while checkout is at 12:00 PM the next day.

Pares Hilton

After checking in at the hotel, it was time to grab some food since we haven’t eaten anything yet. Just a few walks from our hotel, we found Pares Hilton. The restaurant serves beef pares, silog meals, and other short orders. I haven’t laughed out loud over a name before; it was so witty and clever. The interior of the place was alright, but I was so excited to try out their beef pares.

For those who are unfamiliar, beef pares is a super tasty Filipino dish that’s all about juicy beef chunks cooked in soy sauce, garlic, and spices. The beef gets all tender and flavorful, and then it’s served up with this seriously amazing sauce. You gotta try it with some steamed rice or fried rice. Pares Hilton’s pares did not disappoint! The sauce was savory, and the beef had the right consistency. You can order their beef pares with unlimited rice at Php 205 only.

Their silog meals did not disappoint either. We got to try chixsilog and sisilog, and they were delicious. For those unfamiliar, silog meals are typical breakfast dishes composed of fried rice, egg, and. a meal. Prices of Pares Hilton’s silog meals range from Php 120 to Php 195. Please take note that they have a 5% service charge.

We went to their branch at Station 2, but we also passed by another branch at Station 3.

Gratitude Cafe Boracay

After a hearty pares meal, it was time to head to the beach. But since it was still raining, we stopped by a cafe near where we are while it rained. From the outside, this cafe looks cozy and chill. Gratitude Cafe is a popular establishment located at D’Mall in Boracay, Philippines. It is a must-visit spot for those looking to enjoy a unique and memorable dining and drinking experience on the island.

The cafe’s got a really cozy and inviting vibe where you can just chill and kick back. Whether you’re on the hunt for a peaceful nook to enjoy your coffee or a spot to hang out and have a blast with your buddies while munching on smoothie bowls, Gratitude Cafe has got you covered.

There are a lot of options on their menu to choose from: brunch specials, pasta, smoothie bowls, and sandwiches, among others. They also have several coffee options for coffee lovers like me. We ordered Mango Tango smoothie bowls and hot coffee. The smoothie bowl was so delicious! It is already great for sharing for the price of Php 395.

Exploring the Beach and Station 2 at Boracay

It was already late in the afternoon. The rain stopped, so we had the opportunity to finally hit the beach. Walking along the beach is like stepping into a tropical paradise with those soft white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters. It was true what they say – the sand is so fine and powdery. On the shore, a lot were swimming and dipping in the clear waters. It was so enticing, but since it was getting late, we decided to swim the next day. With the salt air and ocean breeze brushing against me, it would have been fun to watch the sunset. However, the sky was cloudy, and it felt like it is going to rain anytime.

We explored Station 2 after. At this station, you can find D’Mall Boracay, a commercial center where most of the action is happening. D’Mall Boracay is a great place to go shopping and stuff. It’s popular and lively, with loads of shops, boutiques, and stalls to check out. You can find everything from souvenirs and beachwear to funky handicrafts and accessories. You can also go restaurant hopping here and enjoy a myriad of flavors. It’s a place for both locals and tourists to get their shop on and have a blast.

For dinner, we just grabbed dinner at Jollibee because we were too tired to explore. But we planned to wake up early to swim. We then went back to the hotel and called it a night.

Day 2

Swimming Time at Boracay Beach

We woke up around 8 AM for the well-awaited swim time. By the time we arrived, there were still a few people swimming. So, we highly recommend swimming early so you can enjoy the beach without the crowd.

The lifeguard’s flag was red and yellow, which means that it is safe to swim but with limitations. The water is crystal clear, and the sand is super soft. The sea is often quiet and inviting, making it a perfect location for swimmers of all abilities. Even I, who do not know how to swim, was able to enjoy the waters. You can chill out in the shallow parts like we did. You can even go deeper into the tidal zone as long as the weather and the waves permit.

By the time we finished dipping into the waters, there were already crowds of people on the beach.

Café del Sol

After dipping at the beach, we headed to what seems to be a popular cafe at Boracay’s Station 2: Café del Sol. Located on the beachfront, Café del Sol is a charming café in Boracay known for its relaxed ambiance and delectable menu. It provides visitors with a delightful blend of cozy interiors and an al fresco setting overlooking the beach. This allows you to enjoy their coffee & tea, panini, breakfast, and cake & pastry offerings.

We all ordered Iced Cafe Latte and Strawberry Cheesecake. Drinking a cup of coffee while feeling the cool ocean breeze and watching the waves from afar made me realize why Café del Sol is a popular spot in Boracay.

Surf and Turf Steakhouse

We chanced upon Surf and Turf Steakhouse while looking for a restaurant to eat lunch at. As we entered the restaurant, we were immediately struck by the laid-back yet inviting atmosphere of the place. The interior was tastefully decorated with a beachy theme, creating a relaxing and pleasant dining environment. The staff at Surf and Turf Steakhouse were incredibly friendly and attentive. They greeted us with warm smiles and promptly seated us at a comfortable table.

Now, let’s talk about the food. Surf and Turf Steakhouse has a diverse menu that caters to various tastes and preferences. Whether you’re a steak lover, a seafood enthusiast, or looking for a flavorful rice bowl, this restaurant has something for everyone. However, since it is a steakhouse, we couldn’t resist ordering different cuts of delectable steaks. One of the highlights of our dining experience was the quality of the steaks. With prices ranging from Php 260 to Php 450, Surf and Turf Steakhouse offers excellent value for money. Each steak was cooked to perfection and served at a juicy and tender medium. The moment we took our first bite, the meat practically melted in our mouths, releasing bursts of flavor and satisfying our taste buds with its succulent juiciness.

Aside from the steaks, the restaurant also offers a wide array of sides, sauces, and toppings to complement your meal. We paired our steaks with creamy mashed potatoes, grilled vegetables, and tangy steak sauce, creating the ideal flavor combinations to enhance our culinary experience even further.

Exploring Station 1 of Boracay

So, after a hearty meal at Surf and Turf, we decided to check out Station 1. And let me tell you, it was nothing like how it looked online. With this stretch of very fine white sand, you would expect that it would be packed with people. However, the whole place wasn’t as crowded as Station 2. Hardly any shops were open. I’m not sure if it has something to do with the sanitation issue that I read online before, but it did not look like this luxury station.

But hey, we did manage to spot something cool – Willy’s Rock, aka the Grotto. This iconic landmark stands tall amidst the crystal-clear waters of Boracay Island. Shaped by natural forces over the years, Willy’s Rock is a picturesque sight that captures the essence of the island. The rock formation itself is adorned with a statue of the Virgin Mary, making it an important religious site for visitors and locals alike.

There were crowds of people posing for pictures near the rock formations, so we didn’t bother getting too close. Plus, it was freaking windy and starting to drizzle. Although the weather wasn’t in our favor, we couldn’t resist admiring the unique beauty of Willy’s Rock from a distance. The contrast between the rock, the vibrant blue sea, and the lush greenery surrounding it created a mesmerizing view. It’s no wonder this spot is popular among tourists seeking a taste of Boracay’s natural wonders.

If you’re planning a trip to Station 1, don’t forget to swing by Willy’s Rock, it’s worth a snapshot or two. And while the overall atmosphere of Station 1 may not live up to the luxurious images you’ve seen, the presence of this natural gem is a reminder of the island’s charm.

Station X

After strolling Station 1 and briefly heading to Boracay’s City Mall, we decided to commute to Station X.

If you want something different to do while staying in Boracay, Station X is the place to be! Inside Station X, you will find a lot of recreational options, giving you a different experience in Boracay. At their Turf Area, they have several stations where you can play foosball, try soccer with your mates, and do jenga. There is also an area where your kids could paint and play on their mobile playground.

Avail of their Dip & Dine Package and enjoy their stunning swimming pool. Lounge around the poolside on their comfortable sunbeds and bask in the warm tropical sun. Take refreshing dips in the crystal-clear pool, and then indulge in a delicious meal at their dining area overlooking the beautiful landscape. The Dip & Dine Package is perfect for those looking to relax in luxury and serenity.

And if all the activities and excitement have left you feeling a bit hungry, don’t worry! Station X has got you covered. There are several food stalls and vendors offering a wide range of delicious culinary delights. From local favorites to international cuisines, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your taste buds. In addition to the recreational activities and scrumptious food, Station X also boasts a shopping area where you can find unique souvenirs and trendy fashion items.

With its vibrant and lively atmosphere, Station X is a fun place to hang out after a much-needed beach time.

Pink Moon | Cheeze Moon

We decided to take a stroll back to D’Mall. As we neared the bustling mall area, a quaint little cafe tucked away in a quiet corner caught our attention – Pink Moon Dessert Cafe. Stepping inside, a warm and inviting ambiance instantly greeted us. The friendly staff welcomed us with smiles, making us feel right at home.

The star of the show at Pink Moon is their delectable yogurt offerings. We were spoilt for choice with an extensive menu featuring various flavors and toppings. Before enjoying your yogurt, please avail yourself of their self-photo studio (Cheeze Moon) on the second floor. They have an array of props and costumes to try and use in your photos. Of course, we didn’t hesitate to try it out. It was fun taking pictures by ourselves. We got the hard copy of the photos immediately. A soft copy of our photos was also provided. Upon returning to the first floor, we enjoyed the yogurt that came with the promo that we had availed.

If you find yourself in the vicinity of Station 2, do yourself a favor and pay a visit to Pink Moon. Whether craving a quick and healthy snack or wanting to indulge in some delicious yogurt goodness, this charming cafe will leave a lasting impression.

Muni Muni

When evening came, we started looking for our dinner place. Since we had no reservation at the restaurant recommended to us, we had to wait for a spot. While waiting for a table, we chanced upon Muni Muni, an establishment that you can easily find while walking along the beach.

Muni Muni is a Mexican restaurant and coffee shop that offers a stunning view of the beach. The interior design is very laidback, giving you a spot to chill while munching on their authentic Mexican cuisine or drinking a cocktail.

Speaking of cocktails, we availed of their Happy Hour promo, where you can buy 1 take 1 for all their classic cocktails from 4 PM to 8 PM every day. Each of us ordered different cocktails. We also tried their buffalo pizza, though they do have other options to try out. If you’re a little bit hungry, they offer other food options such as tapa rice, beef burgers, and Camarones enchiladas. They also have coffee options. But since we planned to drink alcohol that night, we decided to settle for their cocktails.

Overall, Muni Muni offers great food and drinks. We were buzzed after drinking two glasses of the cocktails we bought. Of course, that meant that our plan to get wasted that night did not come to fruition. At least there was an attempt.

Pamana

Since my sister was begging for a seafood feast for dinner, we asked for recommendations on where to go. Pamana was highly recommended, so we got to try it out. Pamana serves authentic Filipino cuisine at the heart of Boracay. The interior was very homey as well.

The three of us were still buzzed, but when we finally got a table, we ordered sinugba, a platter filled mostly with seafood. While the quantity was not really commensurate with the price we paid, I just have to keep in mind that we were in Boracay – prices do not come cheap. The sinugba was good, nonetheless.

I just learned later on that Pamana is a chain of restaurants that span across the country. I heard good reviews about their kare kare, so I would want to try that when I go to another Pamana restaurant. Perhaps in Baguio?

Halomango

As if our stomachs weren’t full already, we still decided to take a hearty dessert at Halomango. We thought it would be a quick dessert stop, but boy, were we wrong!

Halomango, as the name suggests, is all about mango goodness. They’ve got mango soft-serve ice cream, pocket sandwiches, and mango halo-halo, among others. Now, if you’re not familiar with halo-halo, it’s a classic Filipino dessert packed with shaved ice, fruits, and other goodies. But the highlight here is the fresh mango slices! Yum!

With our group now expanded to five (thanks to my sister’s boyfriend’s brother joining us), we decided to go all out and order the ginormous halo-halo. Let me tell you, this thing was massive! Even though a regular-sized bowl is meant for 3-4 people, we struggled to finish it all. But hey, the struggle was worth it because every spoonful was a burst of flavors in our mouths.

You’ll find Halomango shops scattered all over Boracay, so you’ve got plenty of options. Whether you want to sit inside and savor your dessert or grab it to go and enjoy it on the beach, Halomango is a must-visit for all you mango fanatics out there. You won’t be disappointed!

Exploring Station 3 of Boracay

After that hearty dessert at Halomango, we decided to explore Station 3. Earlier that day, we visited Station 1, so we decided to complete our station hopping by going to Station 3. Along the beachfront, we discovered a lot of bars and shops. This was the nightlife everybody was raving about. As much as we wanted to try entering a bar, we were too bloated to even attempt. The view, though, was enticing.

After walking for around 10 minutes, we arrived at the Food Festival & Seafood Market of Station 3. Let me tell you, this place was buzzing with life! Here, we discovered a lot of souvenir shops, food stalls, and a lot more people. Here’s a pro tip: If you’re on the hunt for some pocket-friendly souvenirs, Station 3 is your spot. They have the same stuff as the shops at station 2, but the prices are way cheaper. The shirt that I bought for Php 550 at station 2 was only worth Php 280 at station 3.

We took a quick peek at the food stalls, jammed to the live band for a bit, and then decided to head back to Station 2. Gotta say, the sand situation was quite noticeable—the sand at Station 3 was coarser than the silky stuff at the other stations.

The night was still young and happening, but we had an early checkout the next day, so we had to call it a night and make our way back to the hotel. But man, what a sweet time we had!

Day 3

Kaffa Koffea

Before heading back to the main island, we had to grab a quick breakfast that served coffee. For our last meal at Boracay island, we decided to go somewhere rather inexpensive. There, we stumbled upon Kaffa Coffea, a charming coffee shop found along the beachfront. If it wasn’t for their staff, who were outside calling for customers, we might not have found the shop.

Kaffa Coffea provides budget-friendly coffee and food options. We ordered iced coffee and rice meals. Overall, it was a good cafe to cap off our Boracay trip.

Going Back to the Main Island

After checking out, we rode a tricycle going to the port. We paid the same fare of Php 50. The sun was already back. Too bad I wasn’t able to fully enjoy Boracay with all its heat and glory. Plus, the sunset. Man, I missed the sunset. This might be a sign to return here someday. Soon, hopefully.

Wrapping Up

Overall, Boracay gave me so much to remember in a short span of days. After spending my time hopping from one establishment to another to dipping into its crystal waters, I already get why people love it so much. It is worth its hype, after all. No wonder peeps from all over the globe flock to Boracay as their top travel pick! So whether you’re looking for some chill vibes, epic adventures, or an insane party scene, Boracay has got you covered! This place has some seriously stunning beaches, heart-pumping water sports, crazy nightlife, and mouthwatering food. Se you soon, Boracay.