Crocodile Island and Laurel Island
Only 15 minutes away by boat from Boracay's white beach are 2 famous diving spots. Crocodile and Laurel Islands both contain a diverse marine life, which includes schools of Gorgorian fan corals, sea snakes, cuttlefish, moray eels, scorpion fish, lion fish, and nudibranch among others. These sites are accessible to both novice and expert divers.
The crystal clear waters allow you to see creatures up close, at depths that range from 5 to 20 meters. After diving, you may opt to explore a small bat cave in Laurel. Take pictures of the island's various historical sculptures and enjoy the scenery from its highest viewing point.
Carabao Island
Carabao Island is said to be "the next Boracay." Also known as the town of San Jose, Carabao Island is part of Romblon. Still unspoiled by tourism it has the same crystalline waters and white sand beaches. If you want to escape the loud partying of Boracay, Carabao Island is only a short boat ride away. Aside from its relaxing atmosphere, you will find in Carabao Island mystical caves that you can explore. The island has resorts that cater to individuals, partners, and families as well.
Batbatan and Mararison
You can also island hop to Batbatan and Mararison. Mararison is 4 kilometers away from the town of Culasi in Antique while Batbatan is 8 kilometers away from Mararison. First go to Mararison then island hop to Batbatan. Although both islands also offer tourists dive sites, these are inferior to Crocodile and Laurel Islands.
What these two have to offer is the solitude one won’t get from Boracay. Mararison and Batbatan have long white beaches as well, but aside from just basking in the sun, you may comb the beach for whatever treasure the tide might bring, or try to spear fish with the locals. Batbatan has natural coves that promise even more quiet time for you.
Nogas Island
If you are a lover of birds, go to Nogas Island, which can be reached from the town of Anini-y in Antique. The island holds a diverse variety of bird species so take your camera and enjoy the birds' different colors. The island is also said to be a botanist's delight with many kinds of vines, wild trees, and shrubs. Walk around the island and be truly one with nature.
Gigantes
Next hop is to the Gigantes or Giant Islands, which are the two largest among a group of islets near Boracay. These are the only ones inhabited. Gigantes North Island has a 1-kilometer stretch of pure white sand in a cove on the south part of the islet. At the center of the islet are two incredibly large caves where you can go spelunking. Because this islet is hardly developed, you will be able to rent small cottages for only Php 80 to 150. On the other hand, Gigantes South is home to many species of frogs and geckos that are famous worldwide.
Maniguin
Last but not the least is the Island of Maniguin located south of Boracay. Known to locals as Maningning, the island is also called Hammerhead Island. The trip takes 2 to 3 hours from Boracay on a speedboat. Because of its deep waters, the place is regularly visited by large pelagic species of jacks, tuna, napoleon wrasse, turtles, barracudas, and of course, hammerhead sharks. The place is perfect for snorkeling. If you're lucky, you might even see dolphins.
Christine Powell is a native of Boracay Island, Philippines. She has watched the island transform from a hidden gem into an idyllic retreat for foreigners and locals alike. Besides it's year-round warm tropical water, the powdery white sand continues to mesmerize her. While not exploring, kitesurfing, scuba diving, or sharing her insights about Boracay with travelers, she can be found at http://www.boracaynation.com, her online Boracay home.
Tags: travel, beach, diving, snorkeling, islands, boracay, resorts, marine, dolphins, island hopping