Destinations › Philippines › Boracay › Scams
Boracay, Philippines
8 reported scam patterns travellers run into in Boracay, what they look like, and how to sidestep them.
Seafood bought by weight at the wet market and cooked next door, with the per-kilo rate and the cooking charge confirmed only when the bill arrives.
Prohibited beach services — sand massages, drinking on the beach, fire dancing in restricted zones — sold to visitors where the fine falls on the customer.
Beach 'activity agents' selling island-hopping, parasailing and diving with no operator behind them, taking payment and disappearing.
Theft from beach belongings along White Beach during the day.
E-trike fares quoted per vehicle and then charged per person, particularly late at night.
Airport confusion exploited — transfers sold for Caticlan when the flight lands at Kalibo, two hours away.
Accommodation relocated or downgraded on arrival in peak season with the original rate retained.
Terminal, environmental and jetty fees collected outside the official counters at the Caticlan crossing.
