Crystal Cove Island
Crystal Cove (Laurel Island)
A privately owned small island about 15 minutes by boat southeast of Boracay, where two sea caves open to the ocean. At low tide you can climb down into the caves and watch the waves surge in. It's the signature stop on island-hopping day tours.
Crystal Cove Island (officially Laurel Island, named for the two sea caves on the island) lies about 15 minutes by boat southeast of Boracay, offshore from Caticlan. It is a privately developed small island with stone paths, gardens, a viewing pavilion, and rest areas decorated with shells and driftwood. Each side of the island has a sea cave. Cave 1 has stone steps that descend from the hillside to a rock cavern open to the sea, where waves surge in and form a natural pool. Cave 2 is deeper and narrower, and you must stoop through a rock crack to reach the bottom. When the waves are big, seawater rushes in spectacularly, which is also why it closes in rough weather. The water around the island is clear, good for snorkeling among corals and tropical fish. Admission is about ₱300 per person and includes the island trails and caves. Boat fare is extra. Most visitors come on a Boracay island-hopping day tour (₱1,000 to ₱2,000 per person, including lunch), usually combined with snorkeling at Crocodile Island, diving at Magic Island and a stop at Puka Shell Beach. You can also charter a boat for ₱2,500 to ₱4,000 for 3 to 4 hours. Getting there: take a crab boat from White Beach Station 1 or Tambisaan Pier, about 20 to 30 minutes. Tips: go in the morning during the dry season, snorkel first, then visit the island. Wear non-slip water shoes to enter the caves, and bring a dry bag and towel. Notes: the cave steps are slippery and dimly lit, so the elderly and young children should take care. When waves are big, follow staff instructions to close off areas and don't force your way in. Food on the island is basic, so bring your own water and snacks. The coordinates are approximate for the island's location.
Opening hours
Approx. 08:00–17:00 (weather permitting)
Nearby sights
- Magic Island
- Crocodile Island
- Tambisaan Beach
- D'Talipapa Seafood Market
- Bulabog Beach
- D'Mall
- White Beach
- Mount Luho