Boracay: Island Hopping with Hot Kawa Bath

Planning a day in Boracay often means balancing sun, sand, and adventure. This particular tour offers a unique blend: exploring beautiful nearby islands and rejuvenating in a traditional herbal Kawa bath. It’s aimed at travelers who want a taste of both thrill and relaxation, making the most of their limited time in this tropical paradise.

What we love about this tour is the chance to see pristine beaches and coral reefs, plus the opportunity to unwind in an herbal-infused hot bath after a busy day on the water. Conversely, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention overcrowding and basic snorkeling facilities, which could detract from the experience for more discerning travelers. Still, for those seeking an affordable, well-rounded day, this tour hits many marks.

This experience works best for couples, families, or anyone eager to enjoy Boracay’s natural beauty with a relaxing finish. It’s particularly suitable if you’re interested in a balance of adventure and self-care without a hefty price tag.

Key Points

• Affordable Price Point: At just $41 per person, this tour offers a lot of value for a full day of activities.
• Diverse Activities: Snorkeling, island visits, and a relaxing herbal Kawa bath create a well-rounded experience.
• Authentic Experience: The herbal-infused bath dedicated to revitalization adds a unique Filipino wellness twist.
• Short Duration: 4-5 hours makes it easy to fit into a busy Boracay itinerary.
• Varied Starting & Ending Points: Options at Plato D’ Boracay or Astoria Boracay enhance flexibility.
• Mixed Reviews: While many enjoy the views and relaxation, some travelers note issues with overcrowding and basic snorkeling conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction

Imagine a day where you get to explore Boracay’s nearby islands, snorkel in colorful coral reefs, and then unwind in a bubbling herbal hot bath. That’s essentially what this tour promises. It’s a well-priced way to combine adventure and relaxation—especially appealing if your time in Boracay is limited but you want a taste of everything.

Two things we particularly like about this experience are the stunning scenery—crystal-clear waters and unspoiled beaches—and the unique herbal Kawa bath that promises calming, detoxifying benefits. But, it’s also worth considering that some reviewers mention overcrowding at snorkel sites and less-than-ideal facilities, which might diminish the experience slightly. Still, for many, the chance to see Boracay’s natural beauty and relax afterward makes this tour a solid choice. It’s perfect for travelers who want a cost-effective, active day with a soothing finish.

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour is designed to maximize your time exploring Boracay’s surroundings while giving you a chance to unwind. It starts with a pick-up at one of two locations—either Plato D’ Boracay or Astoria Boracay—making it flexible and convenient. The tour lasts about 4 to 5 hours, enough to enjoy a good number of stops without feeling rushed.

Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Starting Point

Depending on your booking, you’ll gather at either Plato D’ Boracay or Astoria Boracay. These are central locations, making it easy to access from most accommodations. The tour starts with a shared boat ride, allowing you to soak in the fresh sea breeze and take in the views of Boracay’s coast.

Stop 2: Island Exploration & Snorkeling

The main event is exploring nearby islands and beaches that are often less crowded and more pristine than Boracay’s main strip. Think secluded beaches and turquoise lagoons perfect for swimming and photos. You’ll snorkel in coral reefs, which are supposed to be vibrant, though some mention that the snorkel site may not be teeming with fish and is sometimes considered a waste of time by certain travelers.

Stop 3: Lunch and Free Time

After snorkeling, you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch—expect a simple meal, perhaps with limited options, at a spot with a somewhat gritty beach of stones and rubbish, according to one review. While the food might be cold or feel a bit neglected, it’s included in the price, so it’s more about the convenience than a gourmet experience.

Stop 4: Relaxing in the Hot Kawa Bath

The highlight for many is the Hot Kawa Bath, a Filipino wellness tradition where you sit in a large iron kettle filled with warm water infused with aromatic herbs. It’s designed to soothe muscles, improve circulation, and help you relax after a day of splashing around. One reviewer described chlorine and milk in the bath, which may sound odd, but many find the herbal infusion to be quite soothing.

Drop-off: Return to Starting Point

The tour concludes back at your original meeting point, making the whole experience straightforward and stress-free.

What’s Included & What’s Not

You get a lot for the $41 fee: shared boat transport, snorkeling gear, life jackets, buffet lunch, and the herbal Kawa bath. These inclusions make this a comprehensive, hassle-free experience.

However, you’ll need to pay a PHP 100 snorkeling fee and arrange your own hotel transfer if needed. It’s also wise to bring along essentials like sunscreen, waterproof camera, and extra cash for souvenirs or tips.

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The Realities: Benefits and Caveats

Many guests mention the stunning views and the relaxing bath as high points. The herbal bath, in particular, is appreciated as a unique experience that leaves you feeling revitalized. The scenery during boat rides and island stops is genuinely breathtaking and offers excellent photo opportunities.

That said, some reviews highlight overcrowded snorkel sites with limited fish and basic facilities, which can dampen the experience. One traveler noted that the snorkel gear provided was just masks, with no snorkels for breathing, and felt the site was a “waste of time.” Plus, the lunch spot was described as “dirty,” with cold food and children begging nearby, which might be off-putting if you prefer more polished dining options.

The tour’s duration and size make it suitable for those wanting a quick yet fulfilling taste of Boracay’s natural beauty. It’s not for travelers seeking luxury or exclusivity but is ideal for those on a budget who value authentic scenery and wellness.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous families, couples seeking a relaxed yet active day, or anyone on a budget wanting to see some of Boracay’s stunning surroundings. It’s also suitable if you’re curious about Filipino wellness traditions and enjoy a good mix of water activities and relaxation.

However, travelers prone to seasickness, with mobility issues, or seeking a more luxurious or exclusive experience might want to look elsewhere, as some aspects of the tour—like basic facilities and crowded sites—may not meet high expectations.

The Sum Up

This Boracay island-hopping tour offers an enjoyable balance of beautiful scenery, basic snorkeling, and a relaxing herbal Kawa bath at a very accessible price. It’s a good choice if you’re after affordable fun, a chance to see secluded beaches, and a little wellness after your adventures. The tour’s value is especially clear given the inclusions, and it provides a straightforward way to explore beyond Boracay’s main beach.

While some reviews mention overcrowding and minimal fish at snorkel sites, the overall experience of being on the water, surrounded by tropical views, and then unwinding in a herbal bath makes this a memorable part of any Boracay trip. It’s best suited for those wanting a practical, well-priced day of exploration and relaxation, rather than a luxury escape.

FAQ

Where does the tour start?
It starts at either Plato D’ Boracay or Astoria Boracay, depending on your booking choice.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 4 to 5 hours, making it convenient to fit into a full day or half-day schedule.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers shared boat transportation, snorkeling gear, life jackets, buffet lunch, and the herbal Kawa bath.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling equipment?
Snorkeling gear is provided, but some reviews mention only masks without snorkels, so consider bringing your own if you want a better experience.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the PHP 100 snorkeling fee needs to be paid locally. You must also arrange your own hotel transfers if needed.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, it appears to suit families, but parents should consider their children’s comfort with boat rides and snorkeling.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring essentials like sunscreen, hat, swimwear, towel, waterproof camera, cash, and a power bank.

Is the Kawa bath worth trying?
Many travelers find it relaxing and refreshing, especially after a day on the water. It’s a traditional Filipino wellness ritual.

Who should avoid this tour?
People prone to seasickness, pregnant women, those with heart problems, wheelchair users, or travelers over 70 might find some parts challenging.

This tour offers a genuine taste of what Boracay can be—beautiful, fun, and with a touch of Filipino culture. It’s a practical way to see some of the island’s best features without breaking the bank. Just be ready for some crowds and basic amenities, and you’ll likely come away with plenty of stunning memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: