How to Get to Boracay Island by Flights: Nearest Airport & Transfers Guide

Booking flights to Boracay Island is the first step to experiencing this tropical paradise. Boracay Island is one of the top tourist destinations in the Philippines, famous for its stunning White Beach—a 4-kilometer stretch of powdery white sand often ranked among the best beaches in the Philippines and in the world.

Beyond White Beach, there are plenty of fun activities in Boracay Island, from exploring nearby islets on island hopping tours to trying exciting water adventures like helmet diving and parasailing.

• Browse pre-arranged vacation packages to Boracay Island that includes local flights for a hassle-free trip
• Explore the best selection of hotels in Boracay Island

There are no direct flights to the island of Boracay, so travelers must first fly to the mainland of Aklan province, where two airports serve as the main gateways: Caticlan Airport and Kalibo Airport. Choosing the right airport for your flight to Boracay Island can make your trip smoother and make the most of your vacation.

To make your journey hassle-free, this guide covers everything you need to know, from choosing which airport to fly into for your flight booking to transfers to your hotel on the island. Whether it’s your first time visiting or you just need a refresher, this guide will help you navigate your way to the island with ease and save you time to enjoy more of Boracay Island's top attractions.

Which Airport to Boracay Island is Better: Caticlan or Kalibo?

Photo by Philippine Airlines

When flying to Boracay Island, you have two airport options: Caticlan Airport and Kalibo Airport. Both serve as gateways to the island, but they offer different travel experiences in terms of travel time, convenience, and cost.

Caticlan Airport: The Nearest to Boracay Island and the Most Convenient Option

Caticlan Airport (MPH), also known as Boracay Airport, is the closest airport to the island, located just across the water in Malay town of Aklan Province. It is about 6.7 km from White Beach, making it the best option for travelers who want to get to Boracay Island quickly.

From Caticlan Airport, you only need a short van or bus ride to reach Caticlan Jetty Port, followed by a 10- to 15-minute boat transfer to Cagban Jetty Port on Boracay Island. Once there, you can take a tricycle or van to your Boracay Island hotel.

This route is the fastest way to get to the island, but flights to Caticlan Airport are often more expensive and have limited availability, especially in the evening. Currently, five local airlines operate flights to Caticlan Airport:

• Philippine Airlines

• Cebu Pacific

• AirAsia

• AirSWIFT

• Cebgo

Direct domestic flights to Caticlan are available from Manila City, Cebu City, Clark City (Pampanga Province), and El Nido town of Palawan Island). The El Nido to Boracay Island flight via AirSWIFT is a seasonal service operating from October to March.

Kalibo Airport: Cheaper Flights, Longer Travel Time

Photo by Kalibo International Airport

Kalibo International Airport (KLO) is located in Kalibo, the capital municipality of Aklan province, about 76 km from Boracay Island’s White Beach. Since this airport can handle larger aircraft, it has more flight options, including international flights and promo fares, making it a popular choice for budget travelers.

However, traveling from Kalibo municipality to Boracay Island takes longer. After landing at Kalibo Airport, you need to take a van or bus transfer for approximately 2 hours to reach Caticlan Jetty Port, followed by a boat ride to Cagban Jetty Port on Boracay. Once there, you can take a tricycle or van to your Boracay Island accommodation.

Despite the longer journey, Kalibo Airport is a hub for budget airlines and international carriers, making it an ideal choice for those flying in from nearby countries. Major local airlines with flights to Kalibo Airport include:

• Philippine Airlines (suspended starting March 1, 2025)

• Cebu Pacific

• AirAsia

Which Boracay Airport Should You Choose?

• Fly via Caticlan Airport if you want a faster and more convenient trip with less travel time.

• Fly via Kalibo Airport if you’re looking for cheaper flights or traveling from international destinations.

To make your trip easier, you can book Boracay airport transfers in advance. This way, your transport from the airport to your hotel is arranged, ensuring a stress-free start to your vacation.

How to Go to Your Boracay Island Hotel from the Airport

Photo by Southwest Travel & Tours

Whether you're flying into Caticlan Airport or Kalibo Airport, knowing the steps to reach your Boracay Island hotel will help ensure a smooth and hassle-free trip. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to getting from the airport to your accommodation:

From Caticlan Airport to Boracay Island Hotel

Caticlan Airport is the closest airport to Boracay Island, making it the most convenient option for travelers.

For a hassle-free trip, you can book a Caticlan Airport to Boracay Island hotel transfer, which includes all land and sea transport and saves you time and effort.

Follow these steps to get from Caticlan Airport to your hotel on the island:

1. Take a tricycle to Caticlan Jetty Port

• After claiming your luggage, exit the terminal and cross the street where you’ll find a row of motor tricycles.

• Hire a tricycle and ask the driver to drop you off at Caticlan Jetty Port (about a 10-minute ride, depending on traffic).

2. Register at the jetty port and pay the required fees

• Upon arrival at Caticlan Jetty Port, you need to pay the terminal and environmental fees before entering.

• All tourists, both local and foreign, must register with the Department of Tourism (DOT).

3. Board a boat to Boracay Island

• Choose between an ordinary pump boat or a faster ferry.

• Wait in the designated area until your name is called for boarding.

• Hand over your ticket for verification as you board the boat.

• The boat ride to Cagban Jetty Port in Boracay takes approximately 15-20 minutes.

4. Take a tricycle or van to your hotel

• Upon arrival at Cagban Jetty Port, collect your luggage and proceed to the tricycle or van terminal.

• Tell the driver the name of your hotel and which Boracay Station it is in (Station 1, 2, or 3).

• Travel time to your hotel varies between 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the location and traffic.

From Kalibo Airport to Boracay Island Hotel

Kalibo Airport is farther from Boracay Island but offers more and cheaper flights, including international connections. Getting to the island from Kalibo Airport takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes in total.

Booking a Kalibo Airport to Boracay Island hotel transfer ensures a smoother journey and includes all necessary land and sea transportation.

Here’s how to travel to your hotel in Boracay Island from Kalibo Airport:

1. Take a van, bus, or private transfer to Caticlan Jetty Port

• The most convenient option is to book a van or bus transfer from Kalibo Airport directly to Caticlan Jetty Port (around 2 hours of travel time).

• Vans and buses are scheduled to match flight arrivals, so you won’t have to wait long.

• If you're on a budget, you can take a local bus instead. Ride a tricycle from the airport to Kalibo town proper, then head to the Ceres Terminal and board a bus to Caticlan Jetty Port.

2. Register at the jetty port and pay the required fees

• Upon arriving at Caticlan Jetty Port, pay the terminal and environmental fees before entering and register with the Department of Tourism (DOT).

3. Board a boat to Boracay Island

• Choose between a pump boat or a faster ferry for your transfer.

• Wait in the passenger area until it’s time to board.

• The boat ride to Cagban Jetty Port takes about 15-20 minutes.

4. Take a tricycle or van to your hotel

• Once you arrive at Cagban Jetty Port, collect your luggage and proceed to the tricycle or van terminal.

• Give the driver the name of your hotel and which Boracay Station it is located in.

• Travel time to your hotel can take 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the location and traffic.

Boracay Airport Travel Tips for a Hassle-Free Adventure

With its powdery white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lively island vibe, it’s no wonder this tropical paradise is one of the top destinations in the Philippines. To ensure a smooth and stress-free arrival, whether you're flying into Caticlan Airport or Kalibo Airport, here are some essential travel tips to help you start your vacation right.

Pre-Book Your Boracay Airport Transfers

To avoid long lines and confusion upon arrival, it’s best to book an airport transfer in advance. Many services offer land and boat transfers from both Caticlan and Kalibo Airports, taking care of all logistics for you.

Prepare for Jetty Port Fees & Registration

All visitors must register at Caticlan Jetty Port and pay the required fees before boarding a boat to Boracay Island. Have cash ready for port fees, as some counters may not accept cards.

Be Aware of Travel Time & Schedules

Plan your arrival carefully to ensure a smooth transfer to Boracay Island. Travel time varies between Caticlan Airport and Kalibo Airport, so check schedules, especially if arriving late, to avoid delays.

Estimated travel times:

• Caticlan Airport to Boracay Island: 30-45 minutes total

• Kalibo Airport to Boracay Island: 2.5 to 3 hours total

Boat schedules:

• Boats from Caticlan Jetty Port to Boracay Island operate from 5 AM to 9 PM.

If your flight lands late at night, consider staying in Caticlan town overnight and catching an early morning boat to Boracay Island.

Travel Light for a Smoother Transfer

Since you'll be transferring from a plane to a van, boat, and tricycle, it’s best to travel light. Here are some luggage tips for easy transfers:

• Use a backpack or small suitcase that’s easy to carry.

• Keep essentials in a waterproof bag in case of splashes during the boat ride.

• Wear comfortable clothes and flip-flops or sandals for an easy transition from land to sea.

Since Boracay enjoys a tropical climate, it’s best to wear light and breathable clothing, especially if you’re visiting during the dry season (December to May)—the best time to travel to the Philippines for sunny beach weather.

While Boracay Island is warm, airplane cabins can be cold, so bring a light, packable jacket for your flight. You’ll only start feeling the humid tropical weather once you land.

Plan Your Boracay Island Vacation Now

Reaching Boracay Island may require multiple transfers, but with the right planning, your journey can be smooth and hassle-free. Whether you're flying into Caticlan Airport for convenience or Kalibo Airport for budget-friendly options, booking airport transfers, preparing for port fees, and packing light will make your trip easier. Follow these tips, and you'll be relaxing on Boracay Island’s white sand beaches in no time. Enjoy your island getaway!