Panay Island offers a fascinating blend of natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and energetic activities. It’s no wonder that tours here rank among the most memorable in the Philippines. Whether you’re into snorkeling over coral reefs, relaxing with sunset sails, or trying your hand at scuba diving, Panay delivers options that suit all interests and budgets. We especially like the 4 Hour Private Boracay Island Hopping Tour for its flexibility and snorkeling at Crocodile Island. It’s a perfect way to see multiple beaches and reefs in just a half-day, with some reviews highlighting the excellent guide and plentiful snorkeling.
If a lively, social atmosphere is more your style, then the Boracay Sunset Cruise with Party DJ & Unlimited Food and Drinks offers a four-hour party on the water. For those with a passion for exploring underwater worlds, the island’s scuba courses—like the WaterColors Open Water Diver Certification—stand out for their comprehensive training in one of the Philippines’ top dive destinations.
1. 4 Hour Private Boracay Island Hopping Tour
Explore Boracay’s coastline in about four hours with a private boat that hits the highlights like Puka Beach, Balinghai, Crystal Cove, Magic Island, and Tambisaan Beach. This trip is perfect for those who want flexibility—weather permitting, you’ll stop at stunning beaches and snorkel over vibrant coral reefs at the snorkeling site. You can choose to swim and dive at Crocodile Island, renowned for its abundant marine life, or just relax on the boat with fellow travelers.
What makes this tour stand out is the personalized experience, with the chance to explore at your own pace. The itinerary includes a visit to Crystal Cove Island, where you can explore caves and take photos, and even cliff jump at Magic Island if you’re feeling brave. The highlight for many is the bounty lunch at Tambisaan Beach, offering fresh local dishes. Reviewers praise the friendly crew and the plentiful snorkeling opportunities, with one saying, “We saw much more during the time we had than anyone else on the cruise.”
Bottom Line: This is an excellent choice for travelers who want a flexible, scenic, and active tour with opportunities for snorkeling and relaxing on beautiful beaches.
2. Boracay Sunset Cruise with Party DJ & Unlimited Food and Drinks
For those looking to combine spectacular views with lively vibes, the Boracay Sunset Cruise offers a four-hour party on a yacht that promises fun and relaxation. As you sail around the island, enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, and even paddleboarding, with a DJ spinning tunes that keep the energy high.
This tour is ideal for celebrating special occasions or just having a memorable evening. The boat features unlimited food and drinks, and the views during sunset are renowned for their beauty. Guests love the friendly staff and the lively atmosphere, with one reviewer calling it “the most memorable tour of Boracay.” Ideal for groups wanting a social, carefree experience, it balances adventure with the chance to unwind in style.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a lively, social experience with great scenery, excellent music, and all-you-can-eat fun.
3. WaterColors – Open Water Diver Certification in Boracay
If you’re considering scuba diving and want to earn your PADI open-water certification, this WaterColors course offers a thorough, well-supported training program in one of the Philippines’ top dive spots. Over approximately four days, you’ll move from classroom theory to confined water practice, and finally, to dives in the open sea, with expert instructors guiding every step.
What makes this course special is the focus on safety and quality, with a small-group setting that allows personalized attention. The full support from PADI-qualified instructors ensures you gain confidence in your diving skills. Many guests rave about how they go from nervous beginner to certified diver, with the underwater landscapes—full of coral, fish, and even wrecks—making the learning process unforgettable.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for adventure seekers who want a serious, quality certification in a stunning setting, and for those who plan to dive further in the Philippines.
4. Private Boracay Parasailing Adventure
For a quick adrenaline rush, the Parasailing Adventure offers a 15-minute flight over Boracay’s shoreline. This activity is perfect for those seeking a thrilling bird’s-eye view of the island and the ocean. Bring your camera or GoPro to capture the moment when you’re high above the white sands, feeling the wind in your hair.
The activity is suitable for most fitness levels and offers a safe, guided experience. It’s a great way to tick off an extreme activity in a short time, with reviews praising how fun and exhilarating it is. After the flight, you’ll gently land back on the boat, feeling both accomplished and eager to tell friends about your flight.
Bottom Line: Best for adventure lovers craving a quick, scenic thrill—perfect as a standalone activity or part of a larger beach day.
5. Scuba Diving in Boracay
For certified divers, the DiveGurus offers dives at over 20 sites, including Crocodile Island, Friday’s Rock, and wreck sites like Yapak. The tours are led by professional dive masters who ensure safety and fun at the same time. The variety of sites means there’s something for all—whether you’re into shallow coral reefs or wreck exploration.
Reviews highlight the experienced guides and the excellent value for the price of around $40 for 2.5 hours of diving. The rich marine life and coral formations make Boracay a top diving destination. This tour is suited for divers with some experience, looking to explore the vibrant underwater world.
Bottom Line: Ideal for certified divers wanting to maximize their time exploring Boracay’s diverse dive sites with expert leadership.
6. Scuba Diving in Boracay: SSI Basic Diver for Beginners
Not ready for certification but curious about scuba? The SSI Basic Diver is perfect for beginners. Over about four hours, you’ll learn to use scuba gear in shallow waters, getting a taste of what it’s like to breathe underwater. The experience includes a guided shallow dive where you can enjoy the marine life without the commitment of certification.
Guests praise the clarity of instruction and the friendly staff. It’s a low-cost way to dip your toes into scuba, with prices around $58. This tour suits first-timers who want a safe, short introduction before considering a full certification course.
Bottom Line: Best for newbie adventurers eager to try scuba diving without the full certification.
7. Boracay ATV Adventure
The Boracay ATV Adventure offers a 30-minute ride around a private course on electric ATVs. It’s a fun, eco-friendly way to explore the island’s rougher terrain, with guides on hand to assist newcomers. You’ll pass rocky paths, green hills, and scenic spots that are otherwise hard to reach without a vehicle.
The tour is straightforward, suitable for all ages, and allows you to race against friends or just cruise comfortably. Many reviews highlight the safety and friendly service, making it an enjoyable activity for families and solo travelers alike.
Bottom Line: A lively, easygoing activity that adds some adventure to your Boracay trip—no experience necessary.
8. Discover Scuba Diving in Boracay with U/W Photo and Video
This Discover Scuba tour invites you underwater to see Boracay’s marine life firsthand. Led by experienced instructors, you’ll explore shallow reefs and take underwater photos and videos, creating memories you can share long after your trip.
At around 2.5 hours, it’s a brief, beginner-friendly experience tailored for those interested in a quick, guided introduction. Many reviewers appreciate the professional guidance and the chance to see colorful fish and coral, even if they’re new to diving.
Bottom Line: Best for those who want a short, visually rewarding underwater experience with keepsake photos.
9. DiveGurus – Open Water Diver Course SSI/PADI
Looking to turn your interest in scuba into a certification? The Open Water Diver Course lasts about three days and includes classroom study, confined water training, and open sea dives. It’s perfect for those committed to diving more deeply around the Philippines afterward.
The course is led by experienced instructors who emphasize safety and skill. Many past students compliment the smooth learning process and the stunning dive sites, like Crocodile Island. The cost, around $522, reflects the quality and completeness of the certification.
Bottom Line: For serious beginners ready for a full certification and a long-lasting diving hobby.
10. WaterColors – PADI Scuba Diver Certification in Boracay
The PADI Scuba Diver Certification is a two-day, small-group course that offers a more affordable way to get certified in Boracay. All gear and training are included, and the setting is a beautiful Philippine beach.
It’s tailored for those seeking a practical, hands-on learning experience without the full certification commitment. Guests appreciate the personalized attention and the chance to dive in calm, clear waters.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a shorter, cost-effective certification with quality instruction.
11. Boracay PADI Discover Scuba Diving
This 2.5-hour session introduces you to the underwater world in Boracay. You’ll learn to breathe with scuba gear and explore shallow reefs, ideal for first-timers. The tour is great for those curious about diving but hesitant to commit long-term, and it includes underwater photos and videos.
Guests say it’s a fun, easy introduction with enough underwater magic to leave a lasting impression. It’s perfect if you want a quick taste of what diving in Boracay offers.
Bottom Line: Best for beginners seeking a short, enjoyable underwater adventure with memories to keep.
12. Mainland ZipLine Experience in Boracay
For a fantastic rush, the ZipLine gives you a 30-minute descent from a height with panoramic views of beaches, cliffs, and hills. It’s a straightforward activity suitable for most ages, with safety gear provided. The thrill of flying across the landscape makes it one of the most exciting activities on the list.
Reviews mention the spectacular scenery and the fun of the ride. It’s a great add-on for families or anyone craving a quick adrenaline boost without too much physical effort.
Bottom Line: Perfect for thrill-seekers wanting quick, scenic excitement.
13. Boracay Helmet Diving
In Helmet Diving, you climb a ladder into a helmet that allows you to walk along the seabed at about 3 meters deep without needing experience. This experience offers close-up views of marine life and is suitable for those who prefer a gentle, guided underwater walk.
Reviews emphasize how accessible it is, with many mentioning how safe and memorable it is even for first-timers. It’s a low-impact way to enjoy the underwater scenery, especially if you’re nervous about traditional scuba.
Bottom Line: Ideal for families or those who want a safe, easy underwater experience without diving.
14. Paraw Sailing Day Tour
Experience traditional Filipino sailing with the Paraw Sailing Day Tour. Aboard a paraw, an outrigger sailboat, you’ll glide across Boracay’s waters, feeling the breeze and enjoying the serene scenery. The hour-long tour suits anyone wanting a peaceful and scenic escape, and it offers opportunities for photos and quiet reflection.
It’s a relaxing activity, perfect after a morning of sightseeing or beach lounging. Reviewers mention the calming atmosphere and the chance to disconnect from busy schedules.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking tranquility, culture, and beautiful water views.
15. Boracay Paraw Sailing Sunset
End your day on a high note with the Paraw Sailing Sunset. This 30-minute ride offers a relaxed way to watch the sunset with loved ones on a traditional sailboat. It’s a simple, no-stress activity that fits easily into most schedules and gives you a chance to enjoy Boracay’s famous sunset in a memorable, intimate setting.
Many reviews praise the peaceful vibe and stunning views, making it a perfect evening activity.
Bottom Line: Great for couples or small groups wanting a gentle, scenic close to their day.
$96.00 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Tour
When selecting a tour in Panay, consider your budget, interests, and physical activity preference. For example, if snorkeling is your priority, the Island Hopping Tour offers excellent coral reef experiences. If relaxing with friends is your goal, the Sunset Cruise might be ideal. For diving enthusiasts, the WaterColors certification and DiveGurus provide comprehensive courses.
Book early for popular activities like sunset cruises or scuba courses, especially during peak season. Remember to think about your fitness level—activities like parasailing and helmet diving are accessible but still deliver an exciting experience.
To sum it up, Panay Island offers a superb variety of tours that cater to all types of travelers. Whether you’re after underwater adventures, scenic sails, or land-based fun, you’ll find options that fit your style and budget. For a more relaxed trip, the sunset or paraw sailing tours are perfect. For thrill-seekers, activities like parasailing or ziplining will satisfy your craving for excitement. If diving is your passion, the island’s courses and dive sites are second to none. Book early, plan according to your interests, and enjoy the many ways to experience this beautiful part of the Philippines.