How I Learned Windsurfing in Boracay (And the Booking Mistake That Saved Me Money Next Time)
When I first arrived in Boracay, learning to windsurf wasn't even on my itinerary.
In fact, I hadn't planned on doing any watersports at all.
But sometimes the best travel experiences happen completely by accident.
When I booked my hotel, I accidentally reserved a place on Bulabog Beach instead of White Beach. At first, I thought I had made a mistake. It turned out to be one of the best surprises of my trip.
Bulabog Beach is the center of Boracay's windsurfing and kitesurfing scene. Every day, the sky was filled with colorful kites while windsurfers glided across the water. It was impossible not to stop and watch.
I'd seen kitesurfers before, and my father used to enjoy windsurfing when he was younger. I also have a little surfing experience, so after watching everyone on the water for a couple of days, I thought, "Why not give it a try?"
Choosing Between Kitesurfing and Windsurfing
Bulabog Beach. Boracay, 2025
Like many visitors, I booked my lessons through one of the tour representatives walking around the island.
I originally asked about kitesurfing.
The representative explained that learning to kitesurf properly would require around nine lessons, which simply wasn't possible during my stay in Boracay.
Instead, he recommended windsurfing, explaining that most beginners could learn the basics in about three lessons.
That sounded much more realistic, so I signed up.
What You Should Bring
When I arrived for my first lesson, I immediately learned something I wish I'd known beforehand.
The instructors handed me a pair of neoprene booties because Bulabog Beach has rocky sections, and walking barefoot isn't very comfortable.
If you already own water shoes or neoprene boots, I highly recommend bringing them with you. I didn't know I would need them, so I borrowed a pair from the school, which worked perfectly fine, but I always prefer using my own equipment whenever possible.
Another thing I quickly realized was how incredibly strong the tropical sun is.
If you're taking windsurfing lessons, I'd recommend bringing:
Plenty of waterproof sunscreen
A long-sleeve rash guard or UV shirt
A hat for before and after your lesson
A strap for your sunglasses if you plan to wear them
The sunglasses strap is something many people forget.
Without one, there's a good chance your sunglasses will end up in the ocean. You can buy straps around Boracay, but they're more expensive than buying one before your trip, and the fit isn't always great. It's much easier to order one online before you leave home.
My First Two Lessons
My first lesson went really well.
Windsurfing turned out to be more challenging than I expected. The hardest part for me was controlling and lifting the sail, especially while trying to balance on the board at the same time.
My Firs Windsurfing Lesson. Boracay, 2025
Fortunately, my instructor stayed with me throughout the lesson, patiently explaining every movement and helping me improve.
During the second lesson, he gave me much more independence while still keeping an eye on me from the beach. Whenever I struggled, he would wave, demonstrate what to do, or come over to help.
I felt like I was making real progress.
At the end of the lesson, they smiled and said,
"See you tomorrow!"
I was excited.
Until they added one more sentence.
"Tomorrow you'll be practicing without an instructor."
The Booking Mistake I Didn't Know I Had Made
I was completely confused.
When I booked the lessons, I believed all three classes would include an instructor.
The staff explained that the person who sold me the package had actually paid the school for only two instructor-led lessons. The third session was simply equipment rental with no instructor.
That's when I realized how many middlemen were involved.
The package had been sold by one tour representative, who then passed my booking to another person, who then booked everything through the actual windsurfing school.
Everyone along the way was taking a commission.
I wasn't necessarily upset with anyone—it simply opened my eyes to how the booking process worked.
The Lesson That Saved Me Money
Instead of going home frustrated, I decided to visit the windsurfing school directly and ask them about their pricing.
To my surprise, they told me that if I had booked the lessons directly with them instead of through a tour representative, I would have paid roughly half the price.
That completely changed my perspective.
It's not a scam.
It's simply how many tours are sold in Boracay. Representatives make commissions by connecting visitors with local businesses.
There's absolutely nothing wrong with using them if you want convenience.
But if you're planning to spend several days learning a sport like windsurfing or kitesurfing, it's definitely worth walking directly to one of the schools on Bulabog Beach and asking about their lesson packages first.
You may end up saving a significant amount of money.
My Third Lesson Never Happened
The following morning I woke up to much rougher conditions.
The wind had picked up considerably, the waves were much larger than before, and I noticed that only experienced windsurfers and kitesurfers were out on the water.
As a beginner who was already scheduled to practice without an instructor, I decided not to go.
Could I have tried anyway?
Probably.
But I also believe knowing your limits is part of learning any new sport.
Looking back, I don't regret that decision at all.
Would I Learn Windsurfing Again?
Absolutely.
Even though I didn't complete all three lessons exactly as I expected, I genuinely loved the experience.
It gave me a whole new appreciation for the sport and for everyone who makes it look so effortless.
More importantly, it taught me another valuable travel lesson.
Sometimes it's worth spending a few extra minutes walking directly into the local business instead of booking everything through a middleman. You might get a better price, clearer information, and a much better understanding of exactly what you're paying for.
If I ever return to Boracay—and I certainly hope I do—I'll be heading straight back to Bulabog Beach.
And this time, I'll be booking my lessons directly with the school.
Bring a Piece of Boracay Home
During my visit, I also created a collection of fine art photographs showcasing the beauty of Boracay beyond portraits. If this incredible island holds a special place in your heart, I invite you to explore my Boracay Fine Art Print Collection, where you'll find museum-quality prints featuring the island's beaches, tropical scenery, and unforgettable coastal landscapes.
Whether you're looking for artwork to remember your own trip or simply love tropical destinations, I hope these photographs bring a little piece of Boracay into your home.