Things To Do
in Malay
Malay is a coastal municipality in Aklan Province on Panay Island, best known as the gateway to Boracay Island. It offers a mix of pristine beaches, lively beachfront areas, and inland landscapes with fishing villages and scenic vistas. The area thrives on tourism, with easy boat access to Boracay, plenty of water activities, and a welcoming island vibe.
Visitors can expect a dynamic blend of beach life, sunset moments, and Filipino hospitality in a compact, walkable setting.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Caticlan Airport and take a short boat ride to the vibrant town of Malay. Check into your hotel and unwind with a refreshing welcome drink while soaking in the picturesque views of the sea. Stroll through the local market, where you can experience the hustle and bustle of Filipino culture.
Explore the nearby beaches such as Puka Shell Beach, known for its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful white sand. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a beachside restaurant, sampling local seafood delicacies. Spend the afternoon soaking up the sun or engaging in beach activities like snorkeling or paddleboarding.
As the sun sets, head to the lively D'Mall, where you can enjoy a variety of dining options. Savor a delicious dinner featuring traditional Malay cuisine while watching street performances. Wrap up your day with a stroll along the beach, taking in the cool night breeze and the shimmering stars overhead.
Set off early for an exciting island-hopping tour around the beautiful islands surrounding Malay. Cruise through crystal-clear waters, making stops at various snorkeling spots to observe colorful marine life. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning scenery!
Enjoy a picnic lunch on one of the secluded islands, where you can relax and unwind near the beach. Continue your adventure by exploring hidden lagoons and beaches that showcase the natural beauty of the area. Each stop reveals new adventures and breathtaking views, making it a memorable experience.
Return to Malay and refresh before heading out for dinner. Choose from a variety of restaurants that offer both local and international cuisine, complemented by cheerful live music. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife as you explore bars with unique cocktails and friendly conversation.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| ☕Coffee or soft drink | $1-3 |
| 🥗Lunch for two at mid-range restaurant | $14-25 |
| 🏨One night in mid-range hotel | $40-120 |
| 🚕Short taxi/tricycle ride | $2-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- World-class beaches and memorable sunsets
- Friendly locals and welcoming atmosphere
- Excellent range of water sports and activities
- Compact area that’s easy to explore on foot
- Crowds and higher prices during peak season
- Environmental strain from heavy tourism in peak months
- Typhoon risk and occasional travel delays
- "Magandang araw po" - Good day
- "Salamat po" - Thank you
- "Magkano po ito?" - How much is this?
- "Saan po ang banyo?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Paki-tulong po" - Please help
- "Opo, naiintindihan ko" - Yes, I understand
- "Maaari po bang mag-order ng pagkain?" - Can I order food?
Places to Visit in Malay
Visit one of these nice places.
A long stretch of powdery white sand with turquoise water; stunning at sunrise and sunset.
Quieter sand with seashell-strewn shores and natural color variations in the water.
Scenic coves with clear water and dramatic rock formations for intimate coastal shots.
High vantage point offering sweeping panoramas of Boracay’s coast and islands.
Smaller sandy cove with golden hour light and hut-lined shoreline.
Gateway harbor scene with boats and sea views, ideal for travel and sunset shots.
Food in Malay
Malay Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A selection of freshly caught fish and shellfish grilled with house marinades and calamansi.
Must-Try!
Filipino ceviche-style dish of raw fish cured in vinegar, citrus, and spices.
Lighter broths featuring shrimp or fish, served with chilled coconut water or shakes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Casual stalls offering grilled skewers, fried snacks, and local fruit shakes.
Seasonal markets near Caticlan and White Beach with fruits, snacks, and crafts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly in religious sites; beachwear is fine on beaches but avoid public areas in swimwear. Be polite and refrain from loud or disruptive behavior.
Filipino customs use 'po' and 'opo' to show respect; ask before taking photos of locals and their families.
Small tips for good service are common; friendly greetings are appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Malay
Ensure a smooth experience
If service charge is not included, a typical 10–15% tip is appreciated for good service; small tips to housekeeping and bar staff are common.
Cash is widely accepted; many places accept credit/debit cards at larger establishments; ATMs are common on the island and in mainland towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March–May: hot and dry with bright skies; expect crowds and high humidity—perfect for beach days and snorkeling when visibility is good.
November–February: cooler air and pleasant temperatures; great for outdoor activities and sunsets with calmer seas.
June–October: humid with more frequent rain showers and occasional storms; wind conditions favor water sports like windsurfing.
Malay at Night
Hiking in Malay
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible hillside trail with panoramic views of the island and surrounding seas.
Part of Libacao, Panay’s forested peak offering more challenging hiking and waterfall scenery.
Airports
How to reach Malay by plane.
A small domestic airport on the island serving Caticlan, with quick transfers to Boracay’s White Beach.
A larger airport serving domestic and some international flights; about 60–90 minutes by road to Caticlan.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily Filipino families involved in fishing and tourism; multilingual with Tagalog and local dialects.
A mix of domestic and international visitors, drawn from Asia, Europe, and North America.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Bulabog Beach is renowned for wind-based sports, especially during Amihan season.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Malay.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries offer vegetable dishes, rice bowls, and tofu; ask for no fish sauce or meat stock and request vegetable-forward options.