Destinations › Philippines › Boracay › Scams
Boracay, Philippines
13 reported scam patterns travellers run into in Boracay, what they look like, and how to sidestep them.
Bills along the beachfront carrying rounds and covers that were not ordered, particularly where a group has been walked in by a beach promoter.
Reader overlays on the standalone cash machines along the beach path, and cards taken out of sight to be processed at bar and restaurant counters.
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.
Drivers and beach agents steering visitors to pearl and souvenir outlets that pay them per head, framed as the trustworthy place to buy.
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.
Collectors with laminated documentation working the beach path and the restaurant terraces.
Men attaching themselves to visitors at the viewpoints and cliff paths, presenting a fee once the walk is finished.
