Boracay | Malay

Boracay is a tropical island situated in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines, approximately 315 kilometers south of Manila. It falls under the jurisdiction of the municipality of Malay in the province of Aklan and is positioned between the Sulu Sea and the Sibuyan Sea.

Visual Characteristics

The island spans approximately seven kilometers in length and is shaped like a bone, tapering to less than one kilometer wide at its center. Its coastline features white coralline sand beaches, most notably on the western side, while the eastern side consists of smaller coves and rocky outcrops. The interior topography is characterized by rolling hills, with the highest elevation at Mount Luho reaching 100 meters above sea level.

Location & Access Logistics

Primary access is via Godofredo P. Ramos Airport (Caticlan) or Kalibo International Airport. Travelers must proceed to the Caticlan Jetty Port to board outrigger boats or ferries for a 15-minute transit to the island's Cagban or Tambisaan ports. Internal transport is strictly regulated, utilizing electric tricycles (e-trikes) and hop-on-hop-off shuttle buses operating along the main north-south arterial road.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Geologically, Boracay is a carbonate platform composed of coral limestone. Historically inhabited by the indigenous Ati people, the island remained a secluded agricultural and fishing community until the mid-20th century. Following a period of rapid, unregulated commercial expansion, the island underwent a mandatory six-month environmental rehabilitation in 2018 to install centralized sewage systems and restore beachfront setbacks.

Key Highlights & Activities

Water-based logistics include kiteboarding and windsurfing at Bulabog Beach on the eastern side, which receives consistent trade winds. Scuba diving is concentrated at over 20 dive sites within a short boat radius, including the Yapak wall. Terrestrial activities include trekking to the Mount Luho viewpoint and visiting the northern Puka Shell Beach, known for its coarser, shell-based sediment.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The island is supported by a submarine cable for power from the Panay mainland and a centralized water distribution system. Telecommunications provide 4G and 5G coverage across all major tourist zones. Amenities include a public hospital, multiple private clinics, international banking ATMs, and a high concentration of retail and dining infrastructure located primarily in the central Station 2 area.

Best Time to Visit

The "Amihan" season, from November to May, provides dry conditions and offshore winds that keep the western waters calm. The "Habagat" season, from June to October, brings higher humidity and onshore winds. Photography is optimal during the dry season between 17:15 and 18:00 for the western horizon sunset.

Facts & Legends

The island's name is hypothesized to derive from the local word "borac," meaning white cotton, or "bura," referring to sea foam. A critical logistical regulation is the "25+5" meter rule, which mandates that all permanent structures must be built at least 30 meters away from the high-water mark to prevent coastal erosion.

Nearby Landmarks

Crystal Cove Island: 3.5km Southeast

Magic Island: 4.2km Southeast

Crocodile Island: 3.0km Southeast

Panay Mainland (Caticlan): 2.0km South

Carabao Island: 7.5km North