Boracay: Island Hopping Tour with Hot Kawa Bath and Lunch

Planning a trip to Boracay? If you’re after a tour that combines natural beauty with genuine local experiences, this island-hopping adventure might just be what you’re looking for. Featuring snorkeling, a traditional Filipino hot kawa bath, and a delicious buffet lunch, it offers a well-balanced taste of the island’s highlights—all at a budget-friendly price.

What really makes this tour stand out is its blend of adventure and relaxation. You’ll get to explore some of Boracay’s nearby islands, enjoy snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, unwind in a steaming kawa bath, and finish off with a hearty Filipino meal. The only hitch? It’s not suited for everyone—certain travelers like pregnant women or those with mobility issues might want to consider other options.

This experience is best suited for travelers who love a mix of sightseeing and local culture, value affordability, and enjoy a bit of fun on the water. If you’re looking for a lively, authentic day out that won’t break the bank, this might just be your perfect match.

Good To Know

• Affordable Price: At $30 per person, it offers good value for a multi-stop adventure.
• Diverse Activities: Combines island hopping, snorkeling, a hot kawa bath, and local Filipino cuisine.
• Experienced Guides: Knowledgeable English-speaking guides help enhance the experience.
• Flexible Timing: 4.5-hour duration with multiple starting times to fit your schedule.
• Limited Accessibility: Not suitable for pregnant travelers, wheelchair users, or very young children.
• Optional Fees: Additional entrance fees and snorkeling gear are available but not included in the base price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from This Boracay Island Hopping Experience

A Day Packed with Variety and Local Charm

This tour starts at Astoria Boracay, a convenient meeting point for travelers staying on the island. From there, a boat whisks you away to explore the surrounding islands, blending sightseeing with opportunities for swimming and snorkeling.

Exploring Puka Shell Beach

Your first stop is Puka Shell Beach, famous for its natural shells and quiet vibe. A guided 15-minute walk here offers a glimpse of how peaceful Boracay’s less crowded beaches can be. It’s a perfect spot for photos, relaxing on the sand, or just soaking in the views.

Main Island Highlights

The larger part of the day is spent exploring Boracay’s coastline and beaches. Expect around 2 hours of guided touring, where your guide will point out notable spots and hidden corners of the island. This segment helps you appreciate Boracay beyond its world-famous White Beach, revealing local life and scenic vistas.

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Snorkeling in Clear Waters

Snorkeling gear—fins and vests included—is provided, so you can get up close with the marine life in Boracay’s waters. While the specific snorkeling spots are not detailed, the clear waters around the islands are generally perfect for observing colorful fish and coral. Keep in mind, snorkeling fees are optional and approximately PHP 100 if you choose to rent additional gear.

The Unique Hot Kawa Bath Experience

One of the tour’s standout features is the hot kawa bath—a traditional Filipino way of unwinding. Imagine being dunked into a huge wooden cauldron filled with steaming hot water, infused with herbs or natural ingredients, which soothes muscles and relaxes the mind. This authentic ritual adds a cultural touch that’s both fun and calming, especially after a day of exploring.

Lunch with Filipino Flavors

The tour concludes with a local-style buffet lunch, which features fresh seafood and Filipino specialties. Guests often rave about the quality and variety, making it a satisfying end to a busy day. Eating onboard allows you to enjoy your meal with scenic views, and it’s a great way to experience the local cuisine without leaving the boat.

Returning to the Starting Point

After the meal and some final moments on the water, your boat returns to Astoria Boracay or Bulabog Beach, depending on the season and weather conditions. The 4.5-hour duration makes it a manageable half-day adventure—ideal for those wanting to maximize their time on the island.

Real Experiences from Travelers

One traveler, Naren, shared a less positive note: “Tour guide didn’t show up!” This points to the importance of confirming with the operator in advance and managing expectations, especially since some reviews highlight professionalism and knowledge from guides. When guided well, the tour’s educational component about local culture and marine life can be quite enriching.

Others have appreciated the stunning views and delicious food, mentioning that the kawa bath was a highlight of their day. The combination of adventure and relaxation really helps travelers feel they’ve experienced something authentic and memorable.

Practical Details and Tips

Transportation: The tour doesn’t include hotel pick-up or drop-off, so plan to meet at the designated points, either Astoria Station 1 or Bulabog Beach. Check the schedule and confirm your meeting spot, especially if weather conditions shift.

Timing: Check availability for specific start times, which typically last around 4.5 hours. Be prepared for a flexible but organized schedule, with the possibility of weather-related changes.

What to Bring: Sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, waterproof camera, change of clothes, and cash for optional fees. Bring a towel if you want to dry off after snorkeling or the kawa bath.

Suitability: The tour isn’t designed for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or very young children. The kawa bath involves hot water immersion that might not be comfortable or safe for everyone.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Absolutely, for travelers seeking a fun mix of sea, culture, and cuisine at a budget-friendly price, this tour packs a lot into a short period. The inclusion of snorkeling, the unique kawa bath, and a local meal makes it a well-rounded experience that captures the essence of Boracay’s surroundings.

The price of $30 per person is quite competitive, especially considering the variety of activities included. However, remember that optional entrance and snorkeling fees are extra, so budget accordingly. The tour’s relatively short duration makes it perfect for those with limited time but wanting a taste of island life.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers eager to explore nearby islands and enjoy some authentic Filipino culture. It’s great for those who want an affordable, flexible tour that combines water activities, scenic touring, and relaxing traditions.

However, travelers with mobility issues, pregnant women, or very young children might want to look for more accessible options. Also, if you’re not comfortable with optional extra fees, be prepared to pay for snorkel gear or entrance fees separately.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included? No, the tour meets at Astoria Boracay Station 1 or Bulabog Beach. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

What’s the best time to join? Check the availability for start times, which typically last 4.5 hours. It’s best to go early in the day to maximize your time on the water and avoid afternoon weather shifts.

Are snorkeling gears included? Yes, snorkeling masks, fins, and life vests are provided, but snorkeling fees are optional and around PHP 100 if you rent additional gear.

Can I take children? The tour isn’t suitable for babies under 1 year, pregnant women, or people with mobility restrictions due to the nature of the kawa bath and activity logistics.

What should I bring? Sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, waterproof camera, change of clothes, and cash for optional fees. Don’t forget a towel if you want to dry off after snorkeling or the kawa bath.

Is the kawa bath culturally authentic? Yes, the hot kawa bath is a traditional Filipino practice, offering a unique cultural experience and a relaxing way to unwind after the day’s activities.

How long does the tour last? Approximately 4.5 hours, making it a perfect half-day outing.

Are meals included? Yes, a local buffet lunch with seafood and Filipino specialties is served onboard, giving you a taste of local flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Boracay island-hopping tour offers an engaging mix of marine adventure, culture, and relaxation—all at an accessible price. The snorkeling opportunities and scenic island stops will delight lovers of the sea, while the kawa bath adds a uniquely Filipino touch. The included buffet lunch rounds out the experience, ensuring you’re well-fed after a busy morning.

While it’s not perfect—especially if you’re looking for high-end amenities or accessible options—it provides genuine value for budget-conscious travelers eager to embrace Boracay’s natural charm and local traditions. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned island hopper, this tour can be a memorable part of your Boracay adventure.

In summary, if you’re after an authentic, fun-filled half-day exploring Boracay’s waters and nearby islands with the bonus of a traditional kawa bath, this tour checks most boxes. Just be sure to confirm your meeting point, prepare for optional fees, and arrive ready for a lively, cultural experience that’s both affordable and memorable.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby