Crocodile Island: Snorkeling the Hidden Coral Gardens off Boracay
A compact reef playground off Boracay — easy snorkeling, vibrant coral gardens, and morning calm that rewards the curious.
The longtail engine stammers to life and the boat noses away from Boracay’s pearly shoreline. The island’s chatter — the clink of ice in a cooler, a last-minute sunscreen application, the guide’s soft-spoken safety briefing — fades into a small, steady swish of wake and wind. As the shoreline shrinks, a low, dark silhouette grows on the horizon: a squat islet whose jutting head and bowed tail earned it a name before most visitors even set foot in the water. Crocodile Island tucks itself into the channel northeast of Boracay like a secret kept between sea and sun.
Trail Wisdom
Go early for calm water
Morning trips usually offer the clearest visibility and gentlest currents — aim to be on the water before 9 a.m.
Bring a well-fitting mask
A snug mask prevents leaks and lets you relax and spot more reef life without constant adjustment.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Choose mineral-based sunscreen or a rashguard to protect coral from chemical damage.
Follow your guide’s route
Local guides know currents, shallow channels, and the best stretches of reef — stick with them for safety and better wildlife viewing.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •A shallow sandbar to the east of the islet that appears at low tide and is perfect for quick wading and photos
- •A little-known cleaning station near the southern reef ledge where small reef fish gather and sea turtles occasionally visit
Wildlife
Green sea turtle, Parrotfish
Conservation Note
Local groups and operators have pushed for mooring buoys, reef restoration projects, and visitor education to reduce anchor damage and encourage responsible snorkeling.
Named for its crocodile-like silhouette, the islet has long been a landmark for local fishermen and has grown into a favored snorkeling stop as Boracay’s tourism expanded.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: calm seas, excellent visibility, early-morning snorkeling
Challenges: popular with tourists, limited shade on boats
Late dry season brings stable, clear water — ideal for snorkeling and photography, but expect more day-boat traffic.
summer
Best for: warmest sea temperatures, longer daylight, combining with island-hopping
Challenges: stronger midday sun, occasional afternoon winds
Warm water and long days make summer great for extended snorkeling sessions; plan for sun protection and hydrate often.
fall
Best for: fewer crowds, quiet boat charters, better deals
Challenges: increasing chance of rain, choppier seas some days
Shoulder season offers a quieter reef experience but watch the weather forecasts for passing squalls.
winter
Best for: lower humidity, good underwater visibility on calm days, clear skies between storms
Challenges: northeast monsoon may bring wind, shorter windows of calm water
Cooler, drier air can mean sharp visibility, but the northeast monsoon occasionally stirs the channel — check conditions.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Well-fitting snorkel maskEssential
Prevents leaks and helps you stay relaxed while observing the reef.
Reef-safe sunscreen or long-sleeve rashguardEssential
Protects your skin and the coral from harmful chemicals and UV exposure.
Thin neoprene booties or water shoes
Useful for stepping on rocky or coral-strewn beaches when embarking or disembarking small boats.
Small waterproof camera or GoPro
Captures reef encounters without bulky dive equipment — use responsibly and keep a secure leash.
Common Questions
How far is Crocodile Island from Boracay?
Typical boat rides from Boracay’s main beach areas take about 15–25 minutes, depending on the embarkation point and sea conditions.
Is Crocodile Island good for beginner snorkelers?
Yes — the reef has many shallow, sheltered sections ideal for beginners, and local guides provide life jackets and basic guidance.
Can I dive around Crocodile Island?
There are dive operators nearby that run introductory and certified dives at adjacent sites; Crocodile Island itself is primarily a snorkeling spot.
What wildlife can I expect to see?
Common encounters include colorful reef fish (parrotfish, damselfish), occasional green sea turtles, and small invertebrates like nudibranchs and sea urchins.
Are there entrance fees or permits?
Access is generally included in island-hopping tours; some protected areas may have small conservation fees — check with your operator.
How should I protect the reef while visiting?
Avoid touching or standing on coral, use reef-safe sunscreen, do not feed wildlife, and choose operators that use mooring buoys instead of anchoring on reefs.
What to Pack
mask & snorkel (comfortable fit), reef-safe sunscreen or rashguard (coral protection), water bottle and snacks (hydrate between swims), waterproof phone/camera (capture the reef safely)
Did You Know
Crocodile Island is so named because its outline resembles a crocodile; it is a popular snorkeling spot off Boracay known for its shallow coral gardens and easy-access marine life.
Quick Travel Tips
Book a morning slot for calmer seas; bring cash for small conservation or parking fees; confirm boat pick-up location in Boracay (Station 1–3 vary); wear a rashguard to avoid repeated sunscreen reapplication
Local Flavor
Boatmen from Malay, Aklan operate most tours and often bring local snacks like grilled corn or fresh fruit; combine a reef visit with a lunch stop at a beachfront eatery to sample freshly caught seafood prepared in Filipino styles.
Logistics Snapshot
Duration: half-day (2–4 hours); Getting there: 15–25 min boat from Boracay; Difficulty: moderate; Essentials: reef-safe sunscreen, mask; Best time: morning calm; Book with operators that use moorings.
Sustainability Note
Choose operators who use designated mooring buoys, avoid anchoring on reefs, and brief guests on responsible snorkeling; using mineral-based sunscreen and not touching coral significantly reduces reef damage.