Boracay’s dip: A turning point for sustainable tourism
- Paul Aage Hegvik
- Feb 6
- 5 min read
Updated: Feb 25
Boracay Island, located in the central Philippines, is famous for its white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife.
It is also a place where the country has faced major challenges with over-tourism, pollution, and environmental degradation. Over the years, Boracay has made significant strides in rehabilitation and sustainable tourism, balancing the island's growth with the need for ecological preservation.
7% decrease in visitors
As of 2024, Boracay Island has seen a slight dip in tourist arrivals, as reported by the Philippine Department of Tourism. The first half of 2024 showed a 7% decrease in visitors compared to the previous year, with total arrivals dropping to approximately 2.2 million in 2023. The decline is attributed to various factors, including global economic conditions, changing travel patterns, and tourism trends that are evolving post-pandemic.
Notably, the island continues to attract a significant number of local tourists, especially from Manila, and international visitors, particularly from South Korea and China. The decrease in visitor numbers is seen as part of a larger, ongoing effort to ensure sustainable tourism while preventing the negative impacts of over-tourism that plagued the island in the past.
A brief history of Boracay
Boracay was once a small fishing village known only to a few explorers. It started gaining popularity in the 1970s and became a major tourist destination in the 1990s, primarily due to its pristine beaches and ideal conditions for water sports. The rapid increase in tourists eventually caused overcrowding, damage to the environment, and unregulated development, putting immense strain on the island's resources.
Duterte’s decision in 2018: Closing Boracay for rehabilitation
In 2018, Former President Rodrigo Duterte made the bold decision to close Boracay for six months in order to undertake a major environmental rehabilitation. The closure was triggered by the alarming state of the island, which was suffering from:
Overcrowding: Boracay was receiving 1.5 to 2 million visitors annually, far exceeding the island's capacity. This led to overcrowding, especially on the iconic White Beach.
Pollution: A significant amount of untreated wastewater was being released into the sea, causing marine life deterioration and affecting the cleanliness of the beaches. Garbage was also piling up, further diminishing the island’s natural charm.
Illegal development: Many businesses were operating without permits, contributing to the destruction of ecosystems and unregulated construction in vulnerable areas.
Boracay’s rehabilitation: Environmental and tourism efforts
The rehabilitation project, which was led by the Philippine government in collaboration with local authorities, aimed at restoring the island's environment and regulating tourism. Some of the key measures include:
Clean-Up and Waste Management: A massive clean-up operation was launched, focusing on beach cleaning, waterway restoration, and waste management. The government also worked to improve the sewage system to ensure that wastewater was treated properly before being released into the sea.
Regulated business practices: The government mandated that businesses comply with environmental laws, including proper sewage disposal and eco-friendly practices.
Tourist Limits and Zoning: New zoning laws were implemented, limiting the number of visitors allowed on the island at a time. These measures were taken to ensure that the island’s resources were not stretched beyond their limits.
Boracay is taking action against overtourism with stricter environmental regulations, visitor limits, and sustainable tourism initiatives to preserve its natural beauty for future generations. Photo: Deortiz, Flickr CC BY 2.0
Boracay’s visitor numbers and 2024
Despite the rehabilitation efforts, Boracay remains one of the Philippines’ most visited islands. While the slight decline in 2024 may seem concerning, it signals a more sustainable approach to tourism.
Slight decline: The island saw a 7% decrease in tourist arrivals, with 2.2 million visitors recorded in 2023, down from the previous year’s numbers.
Local and international tourists: The majority of visitors come from Manila, while South Korea and China remain the top international markets.
The slight drop in tourist numbers could reflect efforts to prevent overcrowding and ensure that Boracay remains a sustainable destination. It is expected that stricter regulations and increased awareness of sustainable tourism will result in a healthier balance between environmental protection and economic benefits.
Top attractions in Boracay
Despite the challenges, Boracay is still a vibrant and popular destination with a wide array of attractions for visitors to enjoy. Some of the top attractions include:
White Beach: This 4-kilometer stretch of fine, powdery white sand is the main attraction of Boracay. It is perfect for lounging, swimming, or engaging in water sports.
Puka Shell Beach: A quieter, more secluded beach on the northern tip of Boracay, Puka Shell Beach is known for its natural beauty and calm atmosphere.
Crystal Cove Island: A short boat ride away, Crystal Cove Island features caves, scenic trails, and fantastic snorkeling opportunities.
Mount Luho: The highest point on Boracay, Mount Luho offers spectacular panoramic views of the island, the beaches, and the surrounding ocean.
D'Mall: For those who want a taste of local shopping and dining, D'Mall offers an eclectic mix of shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Getting to Boracay
By air:
Kalibo International Airport (KLO): Located around 1.5-2 hours from Boracay by land, Kalibo Airport is one of the most commonly used entry points for visitors.
Caticlan Airport (MPH):The nearest airport to Boracay, just 15-20 minutes by boat to the island’s Jetty Port.
By boat:
From Caticlan Jetty Port, it takes only 15-20 minutes by boat to reach Boracay Island.
Accommodation and dining prices
Boracay offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury resorts. The prices vary depending on the type of accommodation and dining preferences: ~
Budget accommodations: From $18 to $35 per night.
Mid-range hotels: Typically range from $60 to $130 per night.
Luxury resorts: Start from $150 to $400 per night.
Dining Prices
Budget meals: From $3 to $6.
Mid-range restaurants: Around $10 to $20 per person.
Fine dining: Around $25 to $50 per person.
Boracay continues to be a major tourist destination despite the challenges it has faced in recent years. The slight decline in tourist numbers in 2024 shows a shift toward more responsible and sustainable tourism. After the drastic closure under former President Duterte’s administration, Boracay is now being managed with a greater focus on environmental conservation and tourism regulation.
The rehabilitation efforts have paved the way for a more balanced relationship between the island's economy and its natural beauty. Visitors can still enjoy its world-class beaches, exciting attractions, and vibrant atmosphere, all while contributing to the long-term sustainability of this Philippine gem.
