The obvious day trip from anywhere in Malay is Boracay, ten minutes across the strait by pumpboat from Caticlan jetty. Most travellers stay on the island, but a day visit from Caticlan is perfectly possible and lets you skip the high room rates.
Beyond Boracay, the mangrove channels of Buruanga can be paddled by kayak; the small fishing village of Tabon has uncrowded beaches; and the Nabaoy River, inland from Caticlan, has clear pools, a swimming spot, and a series of small waterfalls reached by a short hike.
