If vacationing for you can’t be complete without basking on a beach that’s still unspoiled and non-commercialized, you have to set your sights somewhere in Southeast Asia. There’s more to it than Southern Thailand or Bali in Indonesia; there’s the Philippines. With its 7,107 islands, the chance of finding a spot to suit your taste and mood is high. Taking a chance with this wealth of beach pleasures is no mean feat; there is an easy way – check out what’s listed as the world’s bests.
“To-Die” for Beach is World Renowned
The Philippines takes pride of the Island of Boracay, awarded as Best Overall Island of 2012 and #2 in 2013 (second only to Palawan, also in the Philippines) by the Travel+Leisure Magazine. It is located in Malay, Aklan, which is approximately 2 km off Panay Island in the Western Visayas region and 315 km (196 mi) south of Manila, the country’s capital.
Boracay, “the crown jewel of Philippine beaches,” is on the top of the short list that Travel 3Sixty shares with its readers – 7 Philippine Islands You Must Visit Before You Die. The site dubs this tropical paradise as the “Party Central” with its round-the-clock parties and fun:
“The fine white sands that made this island world-famous invite you to leave your flip-flops behind and go barefoot in their powdery softness. Island hopping and water sports will fill your days with discovery and adventure, while at nightfall, candlelit sandcastles, fire dancers and music of all genres lend a fun and easy-going atmosphere over the island. Bring your friends or make new ones at the bar—the world parties here!”
The Powdery White Sand Attraction
This popular Philippine beach destination is best known for its signature beach of white sands. It is a small island, but over 4km of its 7km length and 500m of its one kilometer width is covered with jaw-dropping, powder-soft, white sand; this is the White Beach. According to the Department of Tourism’s website “It’s More Fun in the Philippines,” this dreamy tropical paradise has three sections:
The northernmost section – Station 1 – has the widest beachfront. This has the best (and most expensive) resorts and hotels.
The center of White Beach is Station 2. People come here to eat, shop, and party.
If you’re looking for a quieter area, then Station 3, the southernmost section, is for you.
More Water Adventures in Boracay
Soaking up some rays and lounging around on the powdery, white sand that made the island celebrated, is something that every visitor must do. But aside from basking under the sun and partying all night long, the island offers numerous active and adventurous opportunities.
If an island holiday can’t be complete without doing active water sports, check out Bulabog Beach, which has strong winds and large waves perfect for kitesurfing, kiteboarding and windsurfing. It is on the opposite side of White Beach or eastern side of the island. The island is also endowed with about 25 dive sites where guests of all levels of skills and experience are welcome. You can also enjoy parasailing, waterskiing, cliff diving or island touring on a native outrigger boat called “paraw.”
Just Relaxing
If this is a holiday meant to indulge in a restful and quiet relaxation, or you want to just unwind after an active day out in the water, there are several ways to do this. Take your pick from these suggestions:
“… indulge in a luxurious massage right on the beach or at one of the spas. Enjoy a healthy fruit shake at Jonah’s. Take a relaxing dip at the infinity pool of the Shangri-La Resort and Spa, with its mesmerizing view of the sea. Shop for shell jewelry. And when the sun goes down, you can head to any of Boracay’s bars for a taste of the island nightlife. Cocktails, draft beer, and imported ales flow nightly as live bands and pounding disco music entertain you.”
Fun Days and Nights and More
More than that, Boracay offers a broad range of options for accommodation and food choices, particularly seafood. There will always be places to stay and food gastronomies to enjoy to suit your budget.
To better enjoy your holiday in Boracay, know when the best time to come. “Because the waters off White Beach are calm during Amihan season (November to May), tourism is at its peak during these months when the northeastern winds blow. Conditions reverse during the rainy season, when the Habagat or monsoon winds blow.”
“There’s no shortage of activities for you at this island paradise.” If you can’t get enough of Boracay’s wonderful beaches, check this post by Aileen Adalid – Top 5 Things to Do in Boracay; A Travel Guide to the Philippines’ Famed Island. For more information about the must-see attractions in the island, check Boracay Beaches Boracay Attractions – Beautiful Viewpoints, Scenic Areas & Caves
