A perfect day in Boracay begins and ends on the beach. Which beach, of course, is up to you.
The stuff of dreams, desktop wallpapers and travel awards, Boracay’s four-kilometre White Beach is one of the purest, most sensational stretches of sand and sea anywhere on the globe. White Beach welcomes thousands of visitors yearly, and its legendary shores are packed with throngs of sandal-clad sun-seekers especially in the dry season.
Happily for those seeking to enjoy one of the world’s top islands in privacy, Boracay has more than a dozen stunning beaches to choose from, as well as many romantic coves and off-shore islands to explore. Step away from the buzz, bars and crowds, and you’ll find Boracay’s magic still lingers.
The famed White Beach is divided into three sections based on former boat docking stations. Away from the non-stop action of Station 2, life goes on at a leisurely pace at Station 3. A smattering of rustic huts line a lovely shoreline, soaring palms bend to the breeze, and it’s possible to swim in the azure waves or relax with a good book for hours undisturbed. On the eastern side of the island, the quieter Bulabog Beach beckons kite surfers with its dependable seasonal winds.
The north of the island is a treasure trove of secluded beaches, best accessed via the native paraw sailboats. Head to the gorgeous shores of Puka Beach for a little shell collecting, or lay your picnic blanket on the sands of the small, cliff-bordered cove at Diniwid. To really get a taste of the Philippines‘ natural beauty, plan a day trip to the neighbouring islands of Panay, Tablas or Carabao, which are ripe for forest treks, snorkeling and spelunking.
Situated atop a hill overlooking the gentle sweep of Punta Bunga Beach, the villas at Shangri-La’s Boracay Resort & Spa are some of the island’s most exclusive and enviable accommodation.
Couples staying in the resort’s two-level Tree House Villa will feel they have the island all to themselves, enveloped by nature and surrounded by breathtaking views. Float above the seascape on the villa’s outdoor deck, soak up some rays from the inviting loungers, and don’t forget to ask your butler to prepare a rose-petal Jacuzzi bath just before sunset.
Speaking of sunsets, if there’s only time for one on-the-water adventure, spring for a sail in the late afternoon. The paraw sailboats are a joy to ride, especially when they’re skimming over the clear turquoise water toward a horizon of billowy jewel-toned clouds and a sky suffused with soft golden light that seems to go on and on and on.
Romantic Holiday Boracay – Fact File
Sleep
After being whisked by speedboat from the airport to the resort’s private jetty, guests of Shangri-La’ Boracay Resort & Spa may discover they don’t want to leave this tranquil enclave of stylish restaurants, dreamy swimming pools and private beaches. Choose the Tree House Villas for bird’s-eye views and ultimate seclusion.
Eat
Dine like a local on fresh seafood at D’Talipapa, sample Filipino dishes at the beachfront tables of Maya, and take your pick from top international restaurants such as CYMA, Kasbah and Aria.
See
Boracay is the natural home of the flying fox, an endangered species of enormous, fruit-feeding bats. Just after sunset, lift your eyes over the rows of palms to catch these almost-majestic megabats in flight.
Don’t Miss
A sunset sail aboard a native paraw, a day trip excursion to Carabao Island and the island’s famous mango shakes
Couples Will Love
Exploring the fabulous white beaches on the northern side of the island and snuggling up for Boracay’s famous sunsets
Getting There
Two airports service with island of Boracay with flights from Manila: From the Caticlan airport it’s a short 20-minute trip to White Beach, while it can take up to two hours on rough roads from the Kalibo airport. Book a smooth transfer with your hotel to avoid the hassle at the jetty.
For further information on planning your holiday to the Philippines visit More Fun In The Philippines
