Aklan Tourist Spots: Top Things to Do in Aklan Province, Philippines
Looking for Aklan tourist spots for your next visit to the province? Aklan, a province in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines, is a popular destination for local and foreign tourists. Known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking natural wonders, Aklan is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Philippines.
One of Aklan’s most famous tourist spots is Boracay Island, which boasts a 4-kilometer-long palm-fringed shoreline and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can indulge in various water sports, including scuba diving, snorkeling, and parasailing, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun. Other famous beaches in Aklan include Yapak Beach (also known as Puka Shell Beach) and Diniwid Beach, which offer stunning views and a serene atmosphere.
For those looking to explore the natural wonders of Aklan, plenty of options are available. Bakhawan Eco-park and Research Centre is a mangrove forest that provides a habitat for various bird species. At the same time, Nagata Falls offers a breathtaking view of cascading waterfalls surrounded by lush greenery. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Aklan has something to offer everyone.
Getting There
Aklan is a province located in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines, and it is home to some of the most beautiful tourist spots in the country. To reach Aklan, tourists can fly or take a bus from Manila to Kalibo or Caticlan.
By Air
The Kalibo International Airport is the main gateway to Aklan, and it is served by several airlines, including Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and AirAsia.
By Land
Tourists can also take a bus from Manila to Kalibo, the capital of Aklan. The trip takes around 10 hours, and buses are available daily from several bus companies, including Ceres Liner and Philtranco.
Boracay Island
Boracay Island is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Philippines, known for its white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. The island is divided into three stations, each with a unique charm. Station 1 is known for its upscale resorts, Station 2 is the busiest and most commercialized area, and Station 3 is the most laid-back and budget-friendly.
White Beach
For years, Boracay’s White Beach has enchanted visitors worldwide with its stunning beauty. Its crystal blue waters, pristine white sand, and mesmerizing sunsets have made it one of the most sought-after beach destinations.
Stretching for 4 kilometers, White Beach is divided into three sections – Station 1, Station 2, and Station 3. Station 1 is the most luxurious and exclusive area, Station 2 is the busiest and most commercialized, and Station 3 is the quietest and most budget-friendly.
With its powdery white sand and turquoise waters, White Beach is a paradise for beach lovers and a perfect place to relax and take in the beauty of nature.
Puka Beach
Tucked away in the Yapak district of Boracay Island, Puka Beach is a hidden gem, a tranquil paradise just 9 KM from the bustling Boracay Jetty Port. You can take a car or ride a tricycle straight to the beach, or even book a guided tour that includes a visit.
Puka Beach is renowned for its abundance of Puka shells, which give the beach its name and its stunning natural beauty. The sand is white and soft, and the crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming. If you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of White Beach, Puka Beach is the perfect destination.
Diniwid Beach
Diniwid Beach is a tranquil paradise tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Boracay’s Station 1. Its lush vegetation and towering cliffs provide a peaceful and serene atmosphere, perfect for anyone looking to escape the crowds of White Beach. Here, you can relax and unwind in its tranquil waters or explore the various villas and beachfront places, some offering stunning panoramic beach views.
If you’re feeling peckish, you can savor various local and international cuisines from the nearby restaurants. Diniwid Beach is the perfect destination for those seeking a more laid-back and natural atmosphere.
Balinghai Beach
Balinghai Beach is a secluded cove located on the northern part of Boracay Island, just a few minutes walk from Diniwid Beach. It is a hidden gem that is often overlooked by tourists. The beach is surrounded by cliffs and lush vegetation, giving it a more secluded and intimate atmosphere. The water is crystal-clear and perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Other Beaches and Resorts
Aklan is known for its stunning beaches, and while Boracay Island is the most popular, there are other beaches and resorts worth visiting. Here are two of them:
Hinugtan Beach
Hinugtan Beach is a secluded paradise located in Buruanga, Aklan. It boasts crystal-clear waters and fine white sand, making it a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. The beach is surrounded by cliffs and rock formations, adding to its natural beauty. Visitors can also rent a boat and explore nearby islands or go fishing.
A few resorts and restaurants near the beach offer accommodations and delicious seafood dishes. Hinugtan Beach is an excellent alternative to the crowded beaches in Boracay and is a must-visit for beach lovers.
Jawili Beach
Jawili Beach is in Tangalan, Aklan, known for its unique rock formations and clear waters. The beach has several coves and islets that visitors can explore. The sand is not as fine as Boracay’s, but it is still soft and white.
Jawili Beach is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Several resorts and restaurants near the beach offer accommodations and delicious seafood dishes. Visitors can also rent a boat and explore nearby islands or go snorkeling.
Overall, Aklan has several other white-sand beaches and resorts worth visiting. Hinugtan Beach and Jawili Beach are just two of them. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty and serenity of these beaches without the crowds and noise of Boracay.
Outdoor Activities
Aklan Province is a perfect destination for outdoor activities. From kayaking to snorkeling, visitors can enjoy a variety of water activities. Aklan is also an eco-tourism destination where visitors can enjoy the province’s natural beauty.
Ariel’s Point
Ariel’s Point is one of the popular outdoor destinations in Aklan. It is located in Buruanga, a municipality in Aklan. Visitors can enjoy cliff diving, snorkeling, kayaking, and other water activities. The site offers five cliff diving platforms from 3 to 15 meters high. Visitors can also enjoy a buffet lunch, which is included in the entrance fee.
Naasug Point
Naasug Point is another popular outdoor destination in Aklan. It is located in the municipality of Malay, which is also the home of Boracay Island. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling and other water activities. The site offers a beautiful coral garden, home to various marine life, including colorful fish and sea turtles.
Parks and Natural Attractions
Aklan is a province in the Philippines home to several parks and natural attractions that offer visitors a chance to experience the beauty of nature. Aklan’s natural wonders will leave a lasting impression on any traveler, from mangrove forests to waterfalls.
Bakhawan Eco Park
Bakhawan Eco Park is a 220-hectare mangrove forest that serves as a sanctuary for various species of birds, fish, and other wildlife.
The park also has a boardwalk, allowing visitors to explore the mangrove forest and observe the diverse flora and fauna that thrive there.
Pagatpat Mangrove Park
Explore the enchanting Pagatpat Mangrove Park in Barangay Panilongan, Buruanga, Aklan, and be mesmerized by the maze of mangroves that envelop the area. Stroll along the connected bamboo bridges and marvel at the lush trees and vibrant fishes below.
For a truly unique experience, take a leisurely walk along the boardwalk that winds through the mangrove forest and witness the diverse wildlife that inhabits this beautiful natural paradise.
Tigayon Hill and Caves
Tigayon Hill and Caves is a natural wonder that features a series of limestone caves and a hill that offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area. Visitors can explore the caves and marvel at the stunning rock formations shaped by the forces of nature over millions of years.
Liktinon White Rocks
Liktinon White Rocks is a natural wonder that features a series of white rock formations shaped by nature’s forces over millions of years. Visitors can explore the area and marvel at the stunning beauty of the rock formations.
Nabaoy River
Explore the wonders of the Nabaoy River and its surrounding area, with its diverse flora and fauna. Take a leisurely river trekking adventure, or try your hand at river tubing.
Take a refreshing dip in the cool, fresh water and enjoy the peaceful forest landscape. Treat yourself to local snacks and drinks, and make special memories with your family or friends.
Hurom-Hurom Cold Spring
Located in Nabas, Aklan, Hurom-Hurom Cold Spring is a natural wonder that is a must-see for anyone visiting the area. The main pool is a basin that captures water from a spring that flows from the nearby mountains, creating a picturesque setting for visitors. Locals flock to the spring for its refreshingly cold waters, which offer a perfect respite from the summer heat.
With its lush vegetation and crystal clear waters, Hurom-Hurom Cold Spring is the perfect spot for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Boracay and experience the natural beauty of Aklan.
Jawili Falls
Visitors to Jawili Falls are mesmerized by its stunning beauty. With seven cascading basins, the natural pool is perfect for taking a dip, while the lush surroundings offer a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
The Jawili people are proud to maintain the cleanliness of the falls and are supported by the municipality of Tangalan. Over the years, this hidden gem has become increasingly popular in Aklan and throughout the Philippines.
Nagata Falls
Take a 30-minute journey from Caticlan Jetty Port and discover the majestic Nagata Falls, the highest waterfall among its peers in the municipality. Cross five rivers and explore the untouched beauty of nature.
Located in Barangay Nabaoy, one of the 17 barangays of Malay, Nagata Falls is a stunning destination that will leave you in awe. Come and marvel at the beauty of the waterfall and its surrounding area.
Pangihan Cave
Explore Pangihan Cave, located in Barangay Poblacion in Aklan. The eight connecting chambers of this wildlife sanctuary are home to thousands of native bats, called kuyapnit, as well as shimmering stalactites and stalagmites. With a total area of 5,001 square meters, the cave corridors are narrow yet lead to massive chambers, breathtakingly sculpted by the forces of nature over millions of years.
Don’t miss the natural pool, too! Just a 15-minute car ride from Caticlan Airport and the Caticlan Jetty Port, Pangihan Cave is the perfect side trip for those vacationing on Boracay Island.
Sapsapon Cave
Sapsapon Cave in Sitio Sapsapon, Brgy Tigum, Buruanga, Aklan, is a limestone cave sculpted by nature’s powerful forces over millions of years.
Visitors can explore an array of delicate stalagmites and stalactites built up from minerals deposited by dripping water. The cave also features a natural pool and stunning rock formations, making it a must-see for any traveler visiting Hacienda Maria.
Cultural and Historical Sites
Aklan is known for its beaches, nature parks, and rich cultural and historical heritage. Here are some of the must-visit cultural and historical sites in Aklan.
Aklan Freedom Shrine
The Aklan Freedom Shrine is a landmark that commemorates the bravery of the Aklanon revolutionaries who fought for the province’s freedom from Spanish colonization. The shrine is located in Kalibo, Aklan. It features a monument with a sculpture of a woman holding a bolo and a baby, symbolizing the courage and determination of the Aklanon people.
Kalibo Cathedral
The Kalibo Cathedral, also known as the St. John the Baptist Cathedral, is a historical church that dates back to the 17th century. It is located in the heart of Kalibo and is considered a significant cultural landmark in Aklan. The cathedral’s architecture features a mix of Spanish and Filipino influences, making it a unique and beautiful sight to behold.
Museo It Akean
For those interested in learning more about Aklan’s history and culture, the Museo It Akean is a must-visit destination. The museum is located in Kalibo and features exhibits on Aklan’s pre-colonial history, Spanish colonization, and the province’s role in the Philippine Revolution. Visitors can also see artifacts and artworks that showcase Aklan’s rich cultural heritage.
Manmade Wonders
Aklan Province has much to offer tourists, including its manmade wonders. These attractions showcase the ingenuity and creativity of the locals, making them a must-visit for anyone traveling to the province.
Nabas Wind Farm
One of the most impressive manmade wonders in Aklan is the Nabas Wind Farm. Located in the municipality of Nabas, the wind farm comprises 18 wind turbines that generate clean and renewable energy. The turbines, which stand at 70 meters high, are a sight to behold, especially when they are in full operation.
Aside from being a source of clean energy, the Nabas Wind Farm is also a great spot for tourists who want to take stunning photos. Visitors can take a tour of the wind farm and learn about the benefits of wind energy. The tour is also an excellent opportunity to appreciate the beauty of the Aklan countryside.
Festivals and Events
Aklan is known for its colorful festivals and events that showcase the rich culture and traditions of the province. One of the most famous festivals in Aklan is the Ati-Atihan festival, which is celebrated every January in honor of the Santo Niño.
Ati-Atihan Festival
The Ati-Atihan festival is a week-long celebration that features street dancing, parades, and other cultural activities. The festival is known for its unique costumes, which are made of colorful feathers, beads, and other materials. The highlight of the festival is the street dancing competition, where participants dance to the beat of drums and other musical instruments.
The Ati-Atihan festival is also a time for locals and tourists to indulge in traditional Aklanon cuisine. Food stalls are set up all over the town, offering a variety of dishes such as inasal, pancit molo, and kare-kare.
Aside from the Ati-Atihan festival, Aklan also celebrates other festivals such as the Kalibo Sto. Niño Ati-Atihan festival, the Bariw festival, and the Binirayan festival. These festivals showcase the different cultural traditions and practices of the province.
Travel Tips and Guide
Aklan is a province in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines that is known for its beautiful beaches, nature parks, and other tourist spots. If you are planning to visit Aklan, here are some travel tips and guides to help you make the most of your trip.
Where to Stay
Aklan has a wide range of accommodations to suit every budget and preference. If you are looking for a luxurious stay, there are many resorts and hotels on Boracay Island, known for its white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters.
If you are on a budget, you can stay in one of the many guesthouses, hostels, or inns in Kalibo or other parts of Aklan. These accommodations offer basic amenities and are usually cheaper than the hotels in Boracay Island.
Points of Interest
Aklan has many tourist spots that you can visit during your stay. Boracay Island is the most popular destination, but many other places are worth visiting, such as the Bakhawan Eco-park and Research Centre, the Hurom-Hurom Cold Spring, and the Jawili Falls.
If you want to explore Aklan’s natural beauty, you can trek to the Nagata Falls or visit the Tigayon Hill and Caves. There are also many cultural and historical sites in Aklan, such as the Museo It Akean and the Aklan Freedom Shrine.
Travel Guide
It is important to note that Aklan is a conservative province, and visitors are expected to dress modestly and respect the local customs and traditions. When visiting the beaches, wear appropriate swimwear and avoid going topless or nude.
It is also important to be mindful of the environment and practice responsible tourism. Do not litter, and avoid activities that may harm the marine life or the natural habitats in Aklan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular beaches in Aklan aside from Boracay?
Aside from Boracay, Aklan is home to several other stunning beaches. Some of the popular ones include White Beach, Yapak Beach (Puka Shell Beach), Diniwid Beach, and Tambisaan Beach. These beaches offer crystal-clear waters, powdery white sand, and breathtaking views.
What are some popular tourist spots in Nabas, Aklan?
Nabas, Aklan is known for its eco-tourism destinations. One of the popular tourist spots in Nabas is the Jawili Falls, which features several cascading waterfalls and natural swimming pools. Another must-visit destination is the Bugang River, where visitors can go on a river cruise and enjoy the scenic views.
What are some popular tourist spots in Buruanga, Aklan?
Buruanga, Aklan is known for its beautiful beaches and natural attractions. One of the popular tourist spots in Buruanga is the Hinugtan Beach, which boasts crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand. Visitors can also explore the Ariel’s Point, a cliff diving spot that offers stunning views of the ocean.
What are some must-visit tourist spots in Balete, Aklan?
Balete, Aklan is a small town that offers several attractions for visitors. One of the must-visit tourist spots in Balete is the Aklan River, where visitors can go on a river cruise and enjoy the scenic views. Another popular destination is the Balete Tree, a centuries-old tree that is believed to be enchanted.
What are some festivals celebrated in Aklan?
Aklan is known for its colorful festivals, with the Ati-Atihan Festival being the most famous. This festival is celebrated every January and features street dancing, music, and colorful costumes. Other festivals celebrated in Aklan include the Sto. Nino Festival and the Binirayan Festival.
What are some popular activities to do in Aklan?
Aside from beach hopping, Aklan offers several activities for visitors to enjoy. Visitors can go island hopping, scuba diving, snorkeling, and kiteboarding. They can also explore the natural attractions in Aklan, such as the Jawili Falls, Bugang River, and Bakhawan Eco-park and Research Centre.
Aklan Province Travel and Tour Packages
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