Boracay Currency & Money Guide

The Philippine Peso (PHP) is the only currency accepted in Boracay. USD, while recognized, is not widely accepted for direct payment. Withdraw PHP on the island or, ideally, before arriving.

ATMs are concentrated in D'Mall (Station 2) and around Station 3. During peak season (December–February), ATMs can run out of cash by afternoon — withdraw in the morning or bring extra pesos from the mainland. Philippine banks typically charge PHP 200–250 per foreign card withdrawal, on top of your home bank's fees.

For better rates, exchange USD or other currencies at licensed money changers in D'Mall rather than hotel desks. Money changers on the island generally offer rates 3–5% better than banks.

Boracay is mid-range for Southeast Asia — more expensive than mainland Philippines but cheaper than Phuket or Bali. Budget travellers in guesthouses eating local food at D'Wall (the local food alley) can manage PHP 1,500–2,500 (USD 27–45) per day including accommodation.

Mid-range travellers at beachfront hotels, dining at tourist restaurants, and taking occasional boat tours spend PHP 4,000–8,000 (USD 70–140) per day. A seafood dinner for two at a White Beach restaurant with drinks typically costs PHP 1,500–2,500.

Luxury at Boracay's top resorts (Shangri-La, Discovery Shores) runs PHP 15,000–40,000+ (USD 260–700) per room per night, with fine dining and premium activities on top.

Tricycle drivers (the island's main transport) are cash-only — flat rate PHP 15–30 per person for a shared tricycle, or PHP 100–150 for a private hire. Boat tours and island hopping from smaller operators also require cash. Small food stalls along the beach and in D'Wall are cash-only.

The PHP 100 environmental fee at Caticlan Jetty and the Caticlan Airport departure tax are collected in cash. Keep PHP 500–1,000 in small bills accessible when arriving and departing.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory in the Philippines. At sit-down restaurants a 10% tip is standard and widely expected in tourist areas. Many restaurants add a 10% service charge automatically — check the bill before leaving an additional tip.

For boat tour guides, PHP 100–200 per person per tour is appropriate. Hotel housekeeping, PHP 50–100 per day. Tricycle drivers don't expect tips but rounding up is appreciated for longer or private hires.