Gay Boracay · Island Guide

Boracay

This small tropical island is located about an hour’s flight from Manila, about 2 km northwest of Panay Island in the Philippines.

Boracay is best-known for its long sandy 'White Beach', located along the west coast of the island. Bulabog Beach on the eastern side is quieter and less popular, as the beach itself is not as pretty.

This well-developed island attracts a large number of Chinese and Korean tourists and remains a popular beach holiday destination for others who wish to get away from the hustle and bustle of Manila. In addition to sunbathing and swimming, plenty of fun activities, water sports and tours are available.

Gay Scene

After the closure of gay bar Juice in 2015, the gay scene in Boracay has been well-integrated with the 'straight' venues. You'll find that most bars and clubs are gay-friendly and have a very welcoming attitude.

Starting in 2015, JUNGLE Circuit party has organised dance parties in Boracay that cater to the gay market. This successful event has boosted the popularity of the island as a destination of choice for gay travelers.

Getting to Boracay

The closest airports are Caticlan (MPH). There are numerous daily flights to and from Manila and Cebu. From the airport, take a tricycle ride to the jetty port (5 minutes) and then catch a boat ride to Boracay.

There are three boat stations on Boracay (Station 1, 2 or 3). Make sure you know which one is closest to your hotel. Some hotel offers private 'door-to-door' transfer service.

Alternatively, you can fly to Kalibo (KLO), which is 63 kilometres away, 1.5 hours by bus to the jetty for Boracay.

Water Transport

There are regular commuter ferries from Manila or Cebu that have regular scheduled stops at Dumaguit (which is about 30 minutes beyond Kalibo). Allow a total of 15-17 hours travel time.

Where to Stay in Boracay

Boracay has an excellent choice of great-value hotels. Most tourist-popular hotels are within walking distance of the beach, D'Mall and all the activities.

For our list of recommended hotels in Boracay, visit our Gay Boracay Hotels page.

When to Visit

November to February is cool and mostly dry. March to June can be warm and mostly dry. July to October is low season due to the rain. Average year-around temperature is between 24ºC and 32ºC.

Diving / Snorkeling

The seas around Boracay have an amazing diversity of marine life and coral, and is one of the best dive locations in the Philippines.

Shopping

Boracay has plenty of shops that sell virtually everything you might need while on holiday. The popular D'Mall features over 100 small shops and restaurants, set amongst coconut trees. Talipapa market covers 4,000 m² (located between White Beach and Main Road) is also worth a visit.

Eating & Drinking

There is a huge choice of more than 200 restaurants, fast food chains, cafés and bars on Boracay, offering various types of cuisine. Expect plenty of amazingly fresh seafood. Drink bottled water.