BSN’s Guide to Fun Day Trips Beyond Boracay

By Gene Loves Acosta

Love Boracay? For sure. But even in paradise, there’s always room for a little more adventure. If you’ve spent your first few days perfecting the art of the beach lounge and now find yourself in a full sun-daze, take it as a sign to look just across the water. The mainland is calling, trading white sand for jungle rivers, heritage trails and the giant “kawa” cauldron you can actually soak in. 

Here are a few day trips worth leaving Boracay’s magic for, even just for a bit.

Motag Living Museum

Location: Brgy. Motag, Malay, Aklan

Travel time from Boracay: 20 minutes by boat to Caticlan, 10 minutes by land

Best for: Families, cultural travelers, curious kids

Duration: 2-3 hours

You arrive at the Motag Living Museum and things already feel different. Someone’s singing, someone hands you a farmer’s hat, and before you know it, you’re laughing as a carabao ambles into your next photo. This isn’t a “look-don’t-touch” museum; it’s a living, breathing encounter with Aklan’s roots. 

Try your hand at traditional weaving (it’s harder than it looks), step into a rice paddy, or give tinikling (that fast-footed bamboo dance) a shot. Between the singing and the stories, someone hands you rice pops and fresh buko, and suddenly you’re reminded how simple joy can actually be.

Visits are by booking only. Message them on Facebook or call (0920) 951 6321 to reserve. Entrance is ₱850 per adult, half off for kids 3-12, and 20% off for seniors. A tricycle round trip from Caticlan jetty port costs around ₱400, or ₱1,500 if you’re getting a van.

Riverside Jungle + Sunset Party

Location: Mainland Panay (via Haqqy Life)

Travel time from Boracay: Boat & jeepney ride included in the tour

Best for: Solo travelers, friend groups, social butterflies

Duration: 7 hours (departs at 11 a.m.)

This tour lets you hop on a jeepney, ride through Panay’s countryside, swim in a jungle river, enjoy a boodle fight lunch on banana leaves, and wrap it all up with a sunset cruise. The vibe is very social with friendly hosts keeping the energy up. The river stop offers a quieter, off-the-grid moment before things pick up again for the cruise back to Boracay, complete with a DJ and drinks. The tour runs every Tuesday and Friday. You can book through their Facebook page, Haqqy Life, or via their website at haqqy.life. Rates start at ₱1,990. Bring swimwear, sunscreen, insect repellent and some cash for extras.

Mount Balinsayaw Hike

Location: Brgy. Mabusao, Ibajay

Travel time from Boracay: 15 minutes by boat to Caticlan, about 30-40 minutes by land

Best for: Nature lovers, active travelers, small groups

Duration: Half day

If you want a break from the beach without going too far, Mt. Balinsayaw offers a refreshing dose of greenery just inland from Caticlan. This local hiking spot is known for its quiet forest trails and views far removed from Aklan’s famous shoreline. The hike is approachable for beginners, with a gradual trail that winds through trees, open slopes and occasional scenic clearings. It’s less about reaching a dramatic summit and more about being outdoors and moving at a slower pace. 

📸 Office of Gov. Jose Enrique Miraflores

Hinugtan Beach

Location: Buruanga, Aklan

Travel time from Boracay: 15 minutes by boat to Caticlan, about 30-40 minutes by land

Best for: Nature lovers, active travelers, small groups

Duration: Full day; Accommodations and dining are available.

Contact True Home Hinugtan on Facebook or Instagram.If you’ve ever wondered what Boracay felt like before the malls and multi-story hotels arrived, Hinugtan Beach is your time machine. This secluded strip of powdery white sand is framed by dramatic cliffs and backed by coconut palms. A digital detox isn’t really optional, as mobile signal is notoriously sketchy, making it the perfect excuse to fully unplug. Spend your morning snorkeling in the glass-like water, exploring the area, or simply claiming a hammock and doing nothing at all. It’s low on commercial development, high on soul, and arguably one of the most relaxing “secrets” in the region. 

📸 Freida Dario-Santiago

Zipline, River Swing and Kawa Bath Adventure

Location: Mainland Panay

Travel time from Boracay: 10 minutes via speedboat

Best for: Friends, date days, and anyone restless for adventure

Duration: Half day (pick-ups from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.)

This easy day trip takes you off the island and into the wilder side of Panay. After a quick speedboat ride from Boracay, you’ll head inland for the zipline portion, where you’ll be briefed on safety procedures before gliding over open greenery and hillside views. The experience continues at a nearby river, where you can swim, try cliff jumping, or take out a kayak or paddleboard at your own pace. 

There’s also a kawa hot bath area if you’re in the mood for a quieter stop before heading back. Rates start at around ₱1,700 per person via My Boracay Guide. Slots fill up fast, so it’s best to book at least a day in advance through Facebook or WhatsApp at (0999) 889 0042.

Malumpati Cold Spring

Location: Pandan, Antique

Travel time from Boracay: 15 minutes by boat to Caticlan, 1.5 to 2 hours by land 

Best for: Families, groups, nature lovers

Duration: Half to full day

The crystal-clear water is bracingly cold, and the fresh mountain air feels like a reset from all the salt and sand. The two-hour drive inland is part of the experience, taking you through small towns and rice fields. Once there, you can float downstream on a rubber tube or simply relax in a bamboo hut and let the afternoon unfold. If you’re feeling a bit more active, there are light trekking trails nearby to explore before taking one last icy plunge. Bring a change of clothes, a towel and cash for rentals or snacks. For a fuss-free experience, you can also book it through My Boracay Guide.

Firing Range Experience

Location: Laerna Firing Range, Nabas, Aklan

Travel time from Boracay: 15 minutes by boat to Caticlan, then 10-20 minutes by land

Best for: Adventure seekers, first-timers, small groups

Duration: 1-2 hours

This controlled shooting facility lets you try target practice in a safe, structured setting, even if it’s your first time handling a firearm. The experience is beginner-friendly, starting with a detailed orientation on proper handling and safety, followed by step-by-step guidance from trained instructors. Protective gear is required, and guests are supervised throughout, so it feels professional and reassuring rather than intimidating. Wear closed shoes and bring a valid ID. Rates start at around ₱5,000 per person (including transportation and 25 bullets). For inquiries or bookings, contact (0919) 553 5111.

Boracay may be the main event, but sometimes the best way to appreciate the island is to leave it for a day and discover everything waiting just beyond its shores.