Boracay: Island Hopping with Lunch and Crystal Cove Island

Boracay: Island Hopping with Lunch and Crystal Cove Island

If you’re planning a trip to Boracay and want to see more than just its famous beaches, the Island Hopping Tour with Crystal Cove Island offers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and local flavor. For around $47 per person, you’ll spend about four and a half hours exploring some of the best spots around Boracay, including Crystal Cove Resort, with its caves and lagoons, snorkeling in vibrant reefs, and ending with a hearty Filipino-style lunch.

What really makes this tour stand out is how it combines natural beauty with informative guides and a genuinely tasty meal. We loved the way the guides brought the islands’ stories to life, and the chance to snorkel in clear waters that are perfect for beginners and experienced swimmers alike. The visit to Crystal Cove’s hidden caves is another highlight, offering a peek into the island’s more mysterious side.

One consideration is that the tour is quite structured — if you’re looking for a completely free-form day, this might feel a bit scheduled. Also, it’s not ideal for travelers with mobility restrictions or very young children, as some stops involve walking or cave exploration.

This tour suits travelers who want a well-rounded adventure with cultural touches, especially those eager to see more of Boracay’s natural sites beyond the busy beaches. It’s perfect for first-timers or anyone looking for a good value way to enjoy the island’s underwater and underground wonders without the hassle of planning each detail.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Combines island exploration, snorkeling, and a local buffet, ideal for a half-day adventure.
• Natural Attractions: Focus on Crystal Cove’s caves, lagoons, and coral reefs for authentic scenic beauty.
• Guided Tour: Knowledgeable guides make the experience engaging and informative.
• Culinary Touch: Enjoy a Filipino-style lunch featuring fresh seafood onboard.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or very young children.
• Value for Money: At $47, it offers a blend of sightseeing, activity, and food, providing solid value.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Boracay’s Hidden Gems: A Detailed Look at the Island Hopping Tour

Starting Point and Logistics

Your adventure begins either at Astoria Boracay Station 1 during the Amihan season or at Bulabog Beach during Habagat season. The flexibility in meeting locations is handy, especially if you’re staying near one of these spots. The tour lasts around 4.5 hours, so it’s a perfect option if you’re short on time but want a taste of Boracay’s best.

Getting to the meeting point is straightforward, but do note that hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included. If you prefer door-to-door service, you might need to arrange your own transport or check if your hotel can assist.

The Itinerary: What’s Included

The tour hits five key stops. First, you’ll head to Puka Shell Beach for a quick guided walk. It’s a lovely stretch of sand famous for its shells and quieter vibe compared to White Beach. The 15-minute guided tour is just enough to snap some photos and breathe in the ocean air.

Next, you’ll spend around two hours exploring Boracay’s main areas with your guide. This part gives you a chance to learn about the island’s local culture and history, while also having time to enjoy the scenery and snap photos.

The highlight for many is the visit to Crystal Cove Resort. Here, you can walk through caves, paddle in lagoons, and marvel at the lush greenery surrounding the area. The caves themselves are a fascinating feature — a rare glimpse of Boracay’s underground landscape, perfect for curious explorers and nature lovers alike.

The tour includes snorkeling gear and life vests, allowing you to float over vibrant coral reefs. The waters are known for their clarity, meaning even beginners can enjoy seeing colorful fish and coral formations without needing advanced skills.

The lunch onboard is particularly appreciated; it features fresh seafood and Filipino specialties, giving you a delicious break with local flavors. Many reviews mention the food as a standout, often describing it as satisfying and well-prepared, especially considering it’s included in the tour price.

What Makes This Tour Special?

One of the most praised aspects is the combination of adventure and relaxation. You get to snorkel in lively reefs, explore caves, and then unwind on white sandy beaches. The guides are noted for being friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to share local stories and tips, which enhances the experience.

The scenic views along the way are breathtaking. Whether it’s the crystal-clear waters, lush greenery, or hidden lagoons, the tour offers plenty of photo-worthy moments. Travelers often appreciate how the tour balances activity with rest, avoiding the feeling of being rushed from one place to another.

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Considerations and Tips

While the tour is a fantastic value, it’s worth noting that it’s not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or tiny children due to some physical activity and cave exploration. Also, bring sunglasses, sun hats, waterproof cameras, and cash for optional entrance fees (like PHP 250 for Magic Island or snorkeling fins at PHP 100), although these are not included in the package.

The tour doesn’t include hotel transfers, so plan accordingly. If you’re staying at a different location, make arrangements to meet at the specified spots.

Why This Tour Works

This island hopping experience is ideal for travelers who want a well-structured, memorable day on Boracay. It offers diverse sights — caves, lagoons, reefs — and combines physical activity with culture. For those eager to see more of Boracay’s natural side without the hassle of planning separate excursions, this tour delivers solid value.

People who appreciate local cuisine will enjoy the onboard Filipino lunch, which is a nice touch beyond typical beachside fare. The guides’ friendly approach and storytelling help connect you to the place, making the visit more meaningful.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you’re after a well-rounded, scenic, and engaging half-day tour, this Boracay Island Hopping adventure with Crystal Cove is a smart pick. It’s especially good if you want to combine natural beauty with cultural flavor without breaking the bank.

However, if you prefer total independence or have mobility concerns, you might find it a bit too scheduled. Still, for most travelers, the blend of snorkeling, cave exploring, and a delicious Filipino lunch makes this tour a worthwhile experience.

This trip is particularly suited for first-time visitors or anyone craving a taste of Boracay’s diverse landscapes. It’s a chance to see the island’s hidden corners and underwater life, making your time in Boracay both fun and meaningful.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The island hopping tour lasts around 4.5 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity to fit into your broader Boracay itinerary.

Where do I meet for the tour?
During the Amihan season, you’ll meet at Astoria Boracay Station 1. In the Habagat season, the meeting point is Bulabog Beach.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers a professional English-speaking guide, snorkeling gear and life vests, a local buffet lunch, and the boat tour itself.

Are there any optional fees?
Yes, some sites like Magic Island have an entrance fee of PHP 250, and snorkeling gear fins or snorkel tubes are available for PHP 100 if you wish to rent them separately.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable with gentle physical activity. It’s not recommended for babies under 1 year or very young children, especially those with mobility issues.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans shift unexpectedly.

All in all, this Boracay island hopping tour offers a rewarding peek into the island’s natural beauty and local cuisine, making it an excellent choice for adventurous travelers eager to see more than just the beaches.

You can check availability for your dates here: