The white sands of Boracay Beach in the Philippines are among the country’s most famous sights, be it during the hot sunny summer days or the colder months of December and January.
With so many things to do in Boracay, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better destination for a summer getaway or a family holiday vacation. Considered one of Boracay’s “peak seasons,” people come in droves to the lovely beach during Christmas and the New Year. This popularity is because of the fun activities and vibrant seaside nightlife, not to mention the many Boracay resorts and hotels from which to choose—each offering their holiday deals and special promotions.
Cheaper Flights and Good Hotel Deals
Although the months from December to January comprise the peak season on the island, tourists can still take advantage of the cheaper flights and good deals that airlines and resort hotels offer. It is essential to book months before getting the best prices and significant discounts. Airlines and accommodations offer low airfares and accommodation only for a specific travel period, so travelers need to keep an eye out to snag the best deals.
Travelers who cannot get deals and discounts need not worry because the holidays remain an excellent season to enjoy despite Boracay hotels and airfares costs. One way to save or split costs is to travel in a group that is popular among young tourists and families.
Eat Your Heart Out
If you have a healthy appetite, you’ll enjoy the delectable treats that Boracay has to offer. With people from all over the globe as its patrons, the beach provides diverse options for food. Keep your eyes open for restaurants offering the freshest seafood, buffet-style. Try the Chori burger and Calamansi muffins for some local flavor or taste traditional holiday dishes worldwide. Whatever your taste, there is a restaurant in Boracay that will cater to it.
Drink Up
After a sumptuous meal, the perfect nightcap is never too far away. No matter where you find yourself on the beach, a watering hole is just a few steps away. Thanks to the many bars and restaurants on the beachfront, the Boracay nightlife remains one of its main attractions. To end your day without the buzz, Jonah’s Fruit Shake & Snack Bar is a must-try. If you’re looking to cool down, Halowich features a unique take on a local delicacy, the halo-halo.
Dance the Night Away
Out of the many things to do in Boracay, partying is the main event. This beach is one of the few known for its wild parties and events. Enjoy the unique island groove of Area 51 and pray for a full moon to enjoy a “Full Moon Party,” famous for its tribal drums, fire dancing, and other musical events. Also, enjoy the native-style décor of Club Paraw for a complete island-party experience.
Bring out Your Inner Child
Boracay has a theme park for the young and young-at-heart, considered the “Disneyland of Boracay Island.” Happy Dreamland features fun rides, a Trick Art Museum, and the opportunity to create memorable experiences. If you carry a playful spirit, it will feel at home here.
Enjoy the Sea, Sun, and Sand
After all, is said and done, Boracay’s main attraction is still its pristine white-sand beach and cool blue waters. Enjoy a refreshing swim or walk along its shores while soaking in the sights and sounds of paradise. There are many fun beach activities to be enjoyed here: parasailing, helmet diving, island hopping, snorkeling, and SCUBA diving are just a few. Try the banana boats for a fun ride on the waves or ask the locals about Ariel’s Point for the ultimate Boracay experience.
Sunset Parasailing
Thrill-seekers can go parasailing, a unique way of seeing the island that is cheaper than a helicopter ride, as it only costs Php1,000 per person compared to the former, which is Php3,500.
For this activity, tourists need to ride a shuttle to Station 1, where they need to ride a speedboat that will take them to the actual boat they will use to parasail. They need to wear life vests and a harness so they can be hooked securely and safely to the large parachute attached to the boat. After the rope is released, the strong wind will lift the parachute up to 150 feet as the boat coasts along for 15 minutes, pulling the parachute behind. Although it is just like sitting on a swing with a fantastic view, guests would still need to sign a waiver.
Sunset Paraw Sailing
Sunset paraw sailing is for the less adventurous types. Mostly found in Boracay and other places in the Visayas, paraw is a distinctive motorless sailboat with two outriggers or “katig.” It has a net where people can sit or lie down to appreciate the beautiful sunset.
To go sunset paraw sailing, talk directly with the paraw boat crew rather than the middlemen. A boat crew charges as much as Php200 less for two people for 30 minutes than a middleman. For people who are traveling with kids, the boat crew can accommodate them for free.
Fire Dancers and Musical Pyro
Aside from the powder-white sand and crystal-blue waters, Boracay is also known for its very exuberant nightlife. Apart from the night parties, visitors can watch the fire dancers along the beach. The best ones are the Solara Fire Divas, who perform their Sparkling Poi finale at the Sand Bar.
Another must-see at the Sand Bar is the Musical Pyro exhibition held on Saturdays during December. It features the same people behind the Pyro Musical Competition in the Mall of Asia.
These are just a few of the things you can enjoy on Boracay during the holidays, and all of them are reason enough to consider celebrating Christmas and the New Year here, every year. With many Boracay resorts and hotels offering special promotions during the holidays, it’s as good a time as any to enjoy the Boracay experience.
