Boracay: Island Hopping Tour with Hot Kawa Bath and Lunch

Traveling to Boracay often means relaxing on powdery white beaches or trying water sports — but what if you could combine both adventure and authentic Filipino experiences in a single half-day outing? That’s exactly what the Boracay Island Hopping Tour with Hot Kawa Bath and Lunch promises. For just around $30, you get a taste of the surrounding islands, some snorkeling, a traditional hot kawa bath, and a hearty local meal. It’s a solid choice for travelers who want more than just sunbathing and are eager to explore beyond the main beaches.

What we love about this tour is how it balances adventure with relaxation. You get to snorkel in clear waters, which is always a highlight, and then unwind in a traditional Filipino hot kawa bath — a real treat after a day of boat rides and swimming. Plus, the included lunch, packed with fresh seafood and regional specialties, makes it feel like a true local experience rather than a generic tourist fare.

A possible consideration is that the tour is quite condensed — lasting roughly 4.5 hours — so if you’re looking for a more immersive or slower-paced experience, this might feel a bit rushed. Also, the tour guide’s reliability seems inconsistent, as one review mentioned a guide not showing up. Booking with a reliable operator and confirming the guide’s availability can help you avoid surprises.

This experience is ideal for active travelers, families, or groups who want a snapshot of Boracay’s islands combined with cultural touches. It’s especially good for those who appreciate a mix of adventure, local flavor, and some well-earned downtime.

Key Points

• Affordable price point for a full half-day adventure, snorkel gear included
• Balanced itinerary combining island visits, snorkeling, and relaxation in a hot kawa bath
• Authentic Filipino experience with local cuisine and traditional bathing
• Flexible meet-up points at Astoria Boracay or Bulabog Beach
• Includes guided commentary in English, making navigation and local insights accessible
• Possible guide reliability issues mean confirming bookings in advance

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Boracay Island Hopping Tour

What’s Included and How It Adds Value

At just $30 per person, this tour offers significant value, considering that it covers transportation, snorkeling gear, a guide, and a hearty local lunch. You’ll start at either Astoria Boracay or Bulabog Beach, depending on the season, which are both convenient spots for travelers staying on the island. The tour lasts about 4.5 hours, making it a manageable half-day adventure that fits well into most travel plans.

The inclusion of professional English-speaking guides ensures you’ll get informative commentary about the islands and local culture, adding depth to your experience. Snorkeling equipment — including masks and life vests — makes it easy to jump into the water and explore marine life. Plus, the local-style buffet lunch features fresh seafood and Filipino favorites, giving you a taste of regional flavors.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Puka Shell Beach
This short visit (around 15 minutes) introduces you to one of Boracay’s iconic beaches, famous for its shells and relaxed vibe. It’s an ideal spot to snap some photos, dip your toes, and get a quick feel for Boracay’s natural beauty. The guided tour here offers a quick overview, so don’t expect a long stay.

Stop 2: Island Hopping and Snorkeling
The main event. You’ll hop between nearby islands and beaches, swimming in clear, turquoise waters and observing colorful marine life with provided snorkeling gear. The tour’s boat ride gives you a chance to enjoy Boracay’s coastline from a different perspective, with plenty of chances to relax on deck and take in the views.

Stop 3: Lunch on Boracay
After working up an appetite, you’ll be served a local buffet aboard the boat or at a designated spot. Expect fresh seafood, regional Filipino dishes, and a casual, communal atmosphere. Many travelers appreciate the quality and authenticity of the food, which provides a genuine taste of the region.

Stop 4: Hot Kawa Bath Experience
This is the tour’s signature feature — a traditional Filipino hot kawa bath. You’ll be dunked into a giant cauldron of hot water, which is believed to be soothing and beneficial. It’s a relaxing way to unwind after the morning’s activities, and travelers often find it both amusing and soothing. Some reviews highlight this as a unique cultural touch that adds charm to the trip.

Return: Back to the Meeting Point
The tour concludes back where it started, making logistics straightforward for travelers staying nearby.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

From the moment you set out, the tour’s pace is brisk but manageable. The boat ride itself is comfortable, with shaded areas and plenty of opportunity to enjoy the scenery. Expect to spend most of your time on or near the water, with opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, and lounging.

The hot kawa bath stands out as a cultural highlight. Many travelers find it a fun and authentic Filipino tradition, adding a different dimension to the typical beach day. It’s a communal experience, so be prepared to share the giant pot with fellow travelers.

The lunch is more than just a sandwich or snack; it’s a well-prepared meal featuring regional flavors. Beachside eateries often serve similar fare, but this onboard meal feels more special because it’s part of the adventure.

The tour’s guides are generally knowledgeable, providing insights about the islands’ history and marine life. However, as one review indicates, guide reliability can be inconsistent, so booking through a reputable provider and confirming arrangements helps ensure a smooth experience.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits adventure-loving families, couples, or groups of friends eager to explore Boracay beyond the main beaches. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a cost-effective way to see nearby islands, enjoy snorkeling, and indulge in a culturally authentic bath.

Active travelers will appreciate the water activities, while those who love good food will enjoy the lunch. It’s also well-suited for first-time visitors who want a quick, organized overview of the islands’ highlights without committing to a full-day tour.

The Practical Side: Price, Booking, and Tips

At $30 per person, this tour offers great value considering what’s included. However, it’s worth noting that additional fees — such as entrance fees to Magic Island or Crystal Cove, snorkeling gear rentals, or optional snorkeling fees — are not included. Planning ahead and bringing cash for these extras is advisable.

Booking is flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which is handy if your plans change. To avoid disappointment, confirm the exact meeting points — either Astoria Station 1 or Bulabog Beach — especially if weather conditions influence the schedule.

Remember to bring essentials like sunglasses, sun hats, a change of clothes, waterproof cameras, and cash. Alcohol and drugs are not permitted, aligning with safety and health standards.

The Sum Up

This Boracay island-hopping experience offers a well-rounded glimpse into the area’s natural beauty, marine life, and local culture. It’s especially ideal for travelers who want to combine adventure, relaxation, and authentic Filipino traditions without breaking the bank. The inclusion of snorkeling, a cultural hot kawa bath, and a hearty regional lunch makes it a memorable half-day outing.

While the tour’s pace might be brisk and guide reliability occasionally questioned, the overall value and unique experiences—such as the kawa bath—make it a worthwhile choice. The tour’s social and cultural aspects, along with stunning views and delicious food, create a genuine island experience that many travelers will cherish.

If you’re seeking a flexible, fun, and reasonably priced way to explore beyond Boracay’s main beaches, this tour fits the bill. Just be sure to confirm your booking and arrive prepared for a lively, water-filled adventure that genuinely shows you a different side of this tropical paradise.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most children who can swim and are comfortable in water will enjoy the snorkeling and boat rides. However, the hot kawa bath might be less appealing to very young children or infants.

Are meals included in the price?
Yes, a local-style buffet lunch is included, featuring fresh seafood and Filipino specialties. Additional snacks or drinks are not included.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, change of clothes, waterproof camera, beachwear, and cash for optional extras or tips. Don’t forget sunscreen!

Can I join the tour if I don’t snorkel?
Yes, non-swimmers can still enjoy the boat ride and the kawa bath. Just inform your guide beforehand so they can accommodate your preferences.

Are there any hidden costs?
Optional entrance fees to Magic Island or Crystal Cove, snorkeling gear rentals, or snorkeling fees are not included and should be prepared for if you wish to visit these spots.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with certain health conditions, such as pregnancy or altitude sickness.

This Boracay island-hopping tour offers a smart way to experience the island’s beauty, culture, and cuisine—all in just a few hours. It’s a lively, affordable, and authentic choice for those eager to see the local side of this famous tropical destination.

You can check availability for your dates here: