When planning a group vacation from Manila to Boracay, it is important to choose the best mode of transportation to ensure a seamless journey.

For large parties, flying is the most efficient option, with numerous airlines providing direct flights from Manila to Caticlan Airport, Boracay's closest entrance. Pre-arranged private shuttles can make it easier to go from the airport to your island accommodations.

Boracay stands out as a top group vacation destination, with stunning white sand beaches, a wealth of water sports, and a thriving hospitality industry. Over two million people visited the island in 2024, demonstrating its continued popularity with tourists. According to the Department of Tourism, Boracay was named Asia's Top Island in 2024, maintaining its prominence as a must-see destination.

In this article, we'll walk you through everything you need to do to organize a perfect holiday, from selecting where to stay in Boracay and activities to packing basics and exploring the best dining options for large groups.

Essential planning tips for a successful group trip to Boracay

Photo courtesy of Laurentiu Morariu via Unsplash

Going on a group vacation to Boracay is an exciting way to make memorable memories with loved ones. To ensure an easy and happy experience, plan ahead of time and take into account vital components of your trip. Here's a whole guide to help you prepare:

1. Know your transportation

When properly planned, getting to Boracay with a group may be just as exciting as the trip itself. From booking flights to arranging smooth transfers, a little planning goes a long way toward ensuring that everyone arrives ready to enjoy the island's splendor.

Choose the best travel option. For large parties coming from Manila to Boracay, flying is the most efficient option. Airlines including Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and AirAsia provide direct flights to Caticlan Airport, the nearest gateway to Boracay.
Book group packages with transfers. Prior to contacting travel agents, check with the hotel of your choice to see if they have any group promotions or packages that include lodging and round-trip airport transportation. Numerous hotels, such as Alta Vista de Boracay, provide special rates for big groups, which makes travel more practical and economical.
Coordinate arrival times. Group members coming in from different locations can affect arrival times. You’ll want to make sure everyone is informed on how to transfer from the airport to the hotel, including the concierge expecting your arrival.

2. Book accommodations in advance

Finding a great spot to stay is essential to a successful group holiday. Boracay has a variety of group-friendly lodgings, ranging from private resorts to condo hotels, that are meant to provide comfort and promote interaction.

Opt for shared spaces. Consider hotels that can accommodate large groups. For example, Alta Vista de Boracay has big apartments and common areas, making it a perfect choice for bonding and relaxation during your group holiday.
Look for key features like:
Complimentary shuttle services. Some accommodations provide free shuttle service to popular tourist destinations, making group outings more convenient.
Spacious common areas. Large living rooms, kitchens, and dining areas leave plenty of room for group activities and gatherings.
In-house catering. Having access to food services designed for groups can make dining arrangements easier and ensure that everyone's preferences are met. This is especially important for travelers with specific dietary needs.
Book early when planning a trip during peak seasons. Boracay is a popular tourist destination, particularly during peak travel seasons. To get the best lodgings for your group's needs, book ahead of time.

Search up on the greatest eats in the area

Good food is at the heart of any memorable trip, and meal preparation for a group assures a pleasant dining experience. From pre-planned meals to discovering local delicacies, it's a chance to socialize over excellent food.

Pre-arrange group meals. Particularly for group members who have dietary needs, be sure to coordinate with your hotel on available meals, along with any recommendations they have to local restaurants. It’ll also help to book a hotel that has a kitchenette where you can prepare your food. Meal planning ahead of time will help you save valuable vacation time and make it easier to identify suitable eating options for a large group.
Choose group-friendly restaurants. To guarantee a seamless and cozy experience, make reservations at restaurants that specialize in entertaining big groups. Kolai Mangyan Boracay provides substantial quantities of regional specialties at affordable costs for a true Filipino feast. Dos Mestizos offers traditional Spanish-Filipino cuisine in a welcoming, communal setting for informal group dining.
Explore local markets and catering options. You can get fresh ingredients and prepare meals together in your lodging by going to local markets, which can be an enjoyable group activity. For local products and fresh fish, D'Talipapa Market is a terrific place to visit. Some resorts and private villas provide in-house cooking arrangements or catering for large parties if you want a hassle-free eating experience.

4. Build your packing checklist

Packing for a group trip can be intimidating, but with a little forethought, it becomes stress-free. With a shared checklist and careful planning, you can make sure your party is properly equipped for a fun and peaceful Boracay vacation.

Essential Items
Group coordination tools. Use shared itinerary apps like Google Keep, Trello, or PackPoint to keep track of your vacation schedule and packing lists. Apps like Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp, and Viber facilitate group discussions and instant updates for real-time communication. Check to see if your mobile provider offers international roaming services for continuous connectivity, or get a local SIM card from Globe or Smart for reasonably priced data packages if your group needs internet access while on the island.
Beach essentials. Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life, rash guards for sun protection, and other beach essentials.
Travel documents. Ensure that all relevant travel paperwork is ready. Tourists will need to show a valid government-issued ID or passport, a confirmed reservation at a hotel that has been accredited by the DOT, and, if necessary, proof of vaccination or, in the case of unvaccinated travelers, a negative RT-PCR test obtained within 72 hours. A tourist arrival form might also be necessary at some entry locations.
Health kits. Pack a health kit with prescription drugs, painkillers, band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and hand sanitizer for minor medical emergencies to be ready.
Pro Tips for Groups
Coordinate luggage weight. Since traveling to Boracay requires a ferry transfer, pack light for easier handling. Check your airline’s baggage limits and coordinate with your hotel for airport transfers and luggage size recommendations to ensure a smooth journey.
Create a shared checklist. To prevent duplication and reduce the load, assign necessities such as sunscreen, power banks, beach toys, and first-aid supplies. This guarantees that everyone has what they need.

By carefully considering these factors, your group could expect a well-planned and enjoyable trip to Boracay. In the next section, we'll look at must-try activities on the island that are ideal for large groups.

Must-try Boracay activities for big groups

Planning group activities in Boracay provides an abundance of possibilities that cater to a wide range of interests, ensuring that each member of your party has an unforgettable experience. Here's a handpicked list of must-do activities and dining experiences appropriate for large groups:

Culinary adventures

Food draws people together, and Boracay's eating scene offers numerous group-friendly options. From original Filipino dishes to worldwide flavors, you'll find exceptional meals to suit every taste.

Local cuisine experiences

Authentic Filipino dining. Try traditional Filipino fare like lechon kawali, crispy pata, and seafood kare-kare at places that welcome groups for a genuine experience of the local cuisine. Subo Boracay provides a traditional dining experience with historical dishes, while Sea Breeze Café is perfect for large gatherings since it offers plenty of seating and a wide variety of Filipino favorites for a buffet-style feast.
Seafood feasts. A must-visit location in Boracay for a traditional Dampa-style dining experience is D'Talipapa Market. A variety of fresh seafood, including as fish, crabs, and shrimp, are available for your group to choose from and have prepared to your preferences at local eateries. Percy Seafood, which specializes in serving fresh seafood from nearby islands prepared in both Asian and Western cuisines, is another great choice. Seafood lovers will love their menu, which includes items like seafood capellini and Aklan oysters.

International options

Global fare. Aria Cucina Italiana in D'Mall offers real Italian food, such as wood-fired pizzas and fresh pasta, that are ideal for sharing parties yearning for exotic flavors. Along with specialty beers and substantial platters that are perfect for big gatherings, Los Indios Bravos serves a blend of Western and Asian comfort food. SpiceBird is well-known for its piri-piri meals, which offer grilled meats and shellfish with strong, smokey flavors in a vibrant environment. For every taste, these locations offer a wide variety of international selections.

Tips for large group dining

Advance reservations. Your group may want to explore different food options separately, which gives you more chances to try more options. However, for meals you’ll be sharing together, try to book tables ahead of time to prevent excessive wait times, especially during busy seasons.
Split the bill easily. To manage payments more efficiently, you can use apps such as Splitwise or GCash. It can be helpful to discuss this prior to the trip, and set expectations to how the group can settle bills. This is where pre-planning where your group activities and meals comes into play, so organizers can collate the group’s budget beforehand.

Beach and water activities

The glittering waves of Boracay are calling! Water excursions designed for groups ensure that everyone has fun and bonds together.

Water adventures. For a thrilling and exploratory experience, try parasailing, banana boat rides, or group snorkeling tours.
Private island-hopping tours. Charter a boat for a customized island-hopping adventure with personalized stops and flexible schedules.

Land adventures

For those who like to stay on land, Boracay has a variety of activities that combine pleasure and discovery.

ATV excursions. Explore the island's rich surroundings on an ATV, which is an exciting alternative for adventure seekers.
Cultural tours. Join guided tours that highlight Boracay's traditions, crafts, and history.

Nightlife and entertainment

Photo courtesy of Alta Vista de Boracay Facebook Page

When the sun sets, Boracay comes alive with colorful nightlife alternatives for large groups.

Beachfront bars. Enjoy live music and refreshments at group-friendly establishments like Epic Boracay, which has a lively but welcoming vibe.
Seasonal events. For one-of-a-kind group experiences, look into festivals and special events scheduled during your visit.

Final preparations for a smooth trip

It takes some extra planning to ensure that your party has a positive travel experience. Here are some important tips:

Budgeting and cost splitting

Manage expenses. Splitwise is an app that can help you track shared costs and make payments easier.
Secure group discounts. Look for bundles and discounts designed for large groups to save money on activities and restaurants.

Communication tips

Stay connected. Use group chats or itinerary applications to keep everyone up to date on plans and changes.

Staying flexible

Adapt as needed. To guarantee that everyone has a good time on the vacation, embrace unpredictability and moderate expectations.

With these ideas and recommendations, your group will have an unforgettable time in Boracay. Whether you're eating, exploring, or relaxing, every moment will be filled with joy and connection.

Key takeaways

Planning a group trip to Boracay may be a great experience, full of shared moments, exciting adventures, and lasting memories. With careful planning and the appropriate accommodations, your party may enjoy everything this world-famous location has to offer.

Plan ahead. From booking direct flights to arranging private transportation, a little planning assures a comfortable journey for everyone.
Group-friendly accommodations and activities. Choose roomy accommodations such as Alta Vista de Boracay, which offers gorgeous suites, common areas, and handy amenities suitable for large groups.
Dining and adventures. Savor local and foreign cuisines, explore the island with water activities or ATV tours, and take advantage of Boracay's dynamic nightlife and cultural offerings.

Discover some of Alta Vista de Boracay’s Group-Friendly Features!

Deluxe Room Suite - Spacious lodging with a separate balcony that provides beautiful views, ideal for bonding and relaxation.
Loft Suite - This suite is ideal for bigger parties, providing adequate room and modern facilities for a delightful stay.

Ready to create lasting memories in Boracay? Visit Alta Vista de Boracay’s official website to explore their accommodations, contact their team at +63 (36) 288 9888, or check out their FAQ page for more details. Stay updated on the latest offers and events by following them on Facebook and Instagram.

Your dream group vacation is just a few steps away—start planning today!

Planning a Group Trip? Discover Where to Stay in Boracay for Large Parties