Boracay 2024: Is It Still Worth Visiting? The Honest Answer

Once known for its 24/7 beach party scene, is the island of Boracay in the Philippines still one of the most popular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia for its white sand beaches, turquoise waters and nightlife?

The island was once a hidden gem, but its fame grew over time and became one of the most visited travel destinations, but this popularity came at a cost.The pristine beaches of Boracay were now polluted and damaged, and the local ecosystem was suffering greatly.
In a bold move, the Philippine government temporarily closed Boracay for six months in 2018 to fix its environmental problems. The closure was part of a major restoration project and was an opportunity for nature and local people to restore the island’s natural beauty, with the aim of improving infrastructure. When Boracay reopened in late 2018, it reemerged with stricter rules on tourism and development, hoping to strike a sustainable balance between tourism and environmental protection.

A brief look at Boracay

is a resort island in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines. The first settlers of Boracay were a Negrito people called the Ati, and who spoke a distinctive Philippine language called Inati.
For a long time, Boracay was the shining jewel of Philippine tourism. Millions of visitors were attracted by the beauty and charm of this popular island. Before the advent of tourism, Boracay was primarily an agricultural community

Boracay in 2024: What changes have happened?

After years of renovations and renovations, Boracay has once again reclaimed its place as a top tourist destination, but with a lot of changes. Here are some of the key differences for Boracay in 2024:

1. 1. Cleaner and more sustainable tourism: Thanks to new laws, Boracay now prioritizes sustainable tourism and restricts the number of visitors to avoid overcrowding. There are strict environmental rules for hotels and businesses to follow, and some water activities are prohibited in order to protect the marine environment.
2. 2. Improved infrastructure: New roads, better waste management systems and improved public facilities have made getting around the island easier and more pleasant. These changes have enhanced the overall experience, but the island still retains its laid-back, tropical charm.
3. 3. Fewer Tourists: In 2024, you will probably no longer experience the crowded conditions of Boracay. Restrictions on the number of visitors and the impact of the pandemic on global tourism have created a more relaxed atmosphere. This is a big plus for those looking for a quiet getaway.

Is Boracay still the beach paradise of old?

One of the biggest concerns of tourists is whether the beautiful and famous beaches of Boracay are still the same as before.
The answer is: yes—but even better.
The results of the restoration project on restoring the beaches are quite evident. White Beach, the island’s most famous spot, once again stands out with its sparkling white sand and crystal clear waters that are still incredibly attractive. There are restrictions on activities such as beach parties and water sports that have been put in place to help keep the beaches calm and clean, you can still enjoy sunset views, swim in the warm clear waters and walk along the pristine sands. Without the chaos that was seen before on the island.

• White Beach: Embrace the Energy (Strategically): Yes, the powdery sand is back, and so are the crowds, especially at sunset. Enjoy the scene then, but plan beach days elsewhere for more serenity. Early morning walks on White Beach are a surprisingly peaceful alternative!
• Puka Shell’s Quiet Charms: For true escape, head here. Stroll the less-developed shoreline, hunt for unique treasures, and swim without the throngs. A must-do to experience Boracay’s natural allure.
• Diniwid Beach: The Sweet Spot: A short walk from White Beach’s action, this smaller bay is ideal when you want a relaxed vibe, stunning views, and those sunset cocktails without the full-on party scene.
• Newcomer Alert: Smaller, lesser-known beaches like Ilig-Iligan or Tambisaan offer even more tranquil alternatives. Ask locals for their current favorites – these hidden spots can change!

While some activities are restricted, there are still plenty of activities you can enjoy. Here are some suggested activities:

1. Beaching: White Beach is still the star of the island, but other beaches such as Puca Beach and Bulabog Beach are also worth a visit. Pooka Beach is quieter and perfect for relaxing, while Bulabog is a haven for water sports like kitesurfing.
2. Water sports and activities: Diving, snorkeling, and paddle boarding are still allowed and are great ways to experience Boracay’s underwater world. With the clean waters, marine life has flourished.

• Dive Deeper (Responsibly): Choose dive shops emphasizing reef preservation and those supporting research and coral restoration projects. These are the operators ensuring your fun doesn’t harm the very thing you came to see. A responsible dive shop might ask you about your experience level, tailoring the trip to help minimize your impact on the reef.
• Island tours: Exploring the nearby islands and discovering hidden beaches, pristine bays and spots suitable for diving and swimming is a different experience than the main attractions of the island.
• Local food and culture: The scene is evolving! Boracay’s local cuisine still holds its appeal, and from fresh seafood to traditional Filipino dishes, there’s plenty to try at the beachside cafes. Seek out farm-to-table spots serving innovative Filipino dishes with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
• Health and Eco Tourism: Several eco-friendly resorts and new wellness centers have popped up on the island, offering everything from yoga to massages and natural therapies, perfect for travelers looking to relax and rejuvenate.
• Island Hopping, the Green(er) Way: Green Gecko Expeditions offers tours between Coron and El Nido with a focus on environmental sustainability. This directly showcases the shift in Palawan tourism. Seek tours departing Boracay with similar values to protect nearby treasures like Crocodile Island and its lush snorkeling spots.
• Mix Adrenaline with Appreciation: Jet skis still exist (sigh), but opt for quieter alternatives! Rent a kayak for cove exploration, try stand-up paddleboarding, or take a sailboat lesson. Hike inland for panoramic vistas – that workout earns the beach time even more afterward!
• Emergence of Ecotours: Look beyond the standard offerings. Tours focused on mangrove ecosystems, guided nature walks highlighting the island’s unique flora and fauna, and even beach clean-up efforts you can join are becoming more common. These experiences give back while deepening your understanding of the island.

• Wellness Wave: Yoga studios with stunning seaview rooms, spas focused on indigenous healing techniques, and retreats offering stress-relief programs are on the rise. This caters to a growing crowd seeking more than just a tan, but rejuvenation of body and mind too.
• Venture Out: Don’t be a resort prisoner! Hire a scooter for the day to see everyday life unfold in villages, explore Boracay’s interior, and discover your own secret beach away from the main tourist zones. This adds a dimension of cultural connection many visitors miss entirely.

Boracay relies on tourism, but the responsible kind is its future:

• Reduce & Reuse: Opt for dine-in meals whenever possible, choose bars serving drinks in real glasses, refill a water bottle instead of buying endless plastics ones, and bring your own reusable shopping bag for souvenirs. Small actions collectively make a big difference on a small island!
• Seek Out Sustainability: Support businesses with clear eco-conscious practices. This might mean a guesthouse using solar power, a restaurant composting food waste, or a tour operator partnering with local conservation projects. Your choices encourage others to follow suit.
• Stay Informed: Before you go, read about the island’s journey. Understanding its challenges will make you a more mindful visitor, contributing to ongoing positive change.

Challenges you may face in 2024
There are some potential pitfalls to consider in Boracay, which has improved in many ways:

1. Restrictions on accommodation and higher prices: Restrictions on the number of visitors have also affected the availability of accommodation. Hotels fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons, and prices can be higher than in the past.
2. Strict rules and regulations: Some of the new rules that are meant to preserve the island may be restrictive rules for tourists. For example, smoking and drinking are prohibited on beaches, and some areas are closed to protect wildlife.
3. Environmental Fees and Permits: Visitors must now pay environmental fees when entering the island. These fees are small but can add up depending on the activities you choose.

The anything-goes, party-all-the-time Boracay is thankfully gone. Today’s island asks more of its visitors, and in return, offers more depth:

• If you crave remote, untouched nature: Smaller, less-developed nearby islands may be better. But use Boracay as a base for day trips if you want convenience AND responsible exploration.
• If you seek a deeper connection: Boracay is evolving to meet this need. Combine those stunning sunsets with a local cooking class, a nature walk with a skilled guide sharing traditional knowledge, or supporting a social enterprise through your purchases – it adds enriching layers to the trip.
• If you want to party (and be part of progress): Boracay isn’t all juice cleanses and yoga, but it’s about balance. Choose smaller-scale beach bars over mega-clubs, stay at places working to reduce their impact, and enjoy yourself in a way that contributes to the island’s brighter future, not its past excesses.

Have you seen the “new” Boracay? Share your experience in the comments!