Traveloka PH
17 Apr 2018 - 8 min read
Now known as the “Boracay of Caraga”, this c-shaped slice of tropical paradise was originally dubbed the “Waikiki Beach of the Philippines” by famous American aviator and explorer, Charles Lindbergh. With its white sand, azure waters and surrounding rainforest, it’s no surprise that this spot is slowly becoming a go-to for city dwellers who simply want to disconnect and be one with nature.
One of the things you may find yourself missing the next few months are the food stalls and shake stands that have popped up all over Boracay. No need to fret though, if you want good food, drinks and the chill beach vibe - then head over to Bantayan Island! Thanks in large part to the island’s growing expat community, visitors can taste authentic Greek, Mexican, Italian food and more without having to leave the country.
As the country’s “Surfing Capital of the North”, La Union has quickly become the go-to place for local and foreign tourists alike who want to party, surf and have a good time. There are several hostels that hold events, concerts and gatherings where visitors can mingle and meet new people. The music is good, the company even better - especially when forged over good conversation, food and drinks.
Thanks to Ariel’s Point, cliff diving in Boracay has become a must-do. If you’ve been itching to take a leap of faith and can’t wait until October, then why not head over to Siargao? The Magpupungko Rock Pool has been a local favorite due to its unusual rock formation - a much bigger rock sitting atop a small rock. In fact, the “Magpupungko” comes from the Bisaya term, “pungko” which means “to sit”. At the base of the formation are several pools of clear blue water that are only revealed during low tide. On the other hand, when the tide rushes back in, they fill the rock pools with seawater thus forming the “tide pools”. You can go cliff diving here though not as high, the view is just as spectacular.
When in Boracay, there are several dive sites to choose from: Crocodile Island, Camia II Shipwreck, Diniwid and more. But whether or not you’re a pro, there are so many other dive sites in the Philippines that you can explore - most especially in Batangas! For local and foreign divers alike, Anilao, Batangas is the best diving spot to go to when you only have an hour or two to spare on the road. If you’re looking to enjoy a wide variety of marine life, soft corals and reef formations then head over to Sombrero Island, Merriel’s Rock, Layag-layag Reef and Ligpo Island.
If you and your friends love riding jet ski’s, the flying fish, the banana boat, love going parasailing and helmet diving - then make the two to three hour drive to Subic Bay! No need to make the trip over to Boracay for fun watersports - because there’s ton to do over here. That and island hopping, which is always great as you discover one new place after another.
Like Anilao, Balicasag is well-known for its dive spots as well. You have “Black Forest” which is 40 meters deep and is home to a variety of sea creatures and corals. There’s also Turtle Point which can go 75 meters deep and is where you can see sea turtles roaming freely. If you don’t want to go underwater though, you can simply go snorkeling and enjoy the view from the top.
Not a lot of people know, but just a quick drive away from Boracay are Nagata Falls and Agnaga Mini Falls. Located in the municipality of Malay, the waterfalls showcase a beautiful downpour of cool and refreshing water, which makes it the perfect backdrop for a relaxing swim or picnic. If you feel like you’ve missed out on the falls, then head over to Puerto Galera that’s home to the Tamaraw, Tukuran, Talipanan and Aninuan Falls.
Not all of Boracay’s beaches are dotted with restaurants, hotels and beach chairs, some of them have remained fairly untouched - free of tourists and commercialism. The same can be said about Cotivas Island, which is why it was chosen as the shooting location for the hit reality tv series, Survivor: Caramoan (Fans vs Favorites). Albeit some wooden structures left behind by the shooting, the island has remain untouched and is perfect for beach bums who simply want to stroll along or to laze around. When the high tide recedes, you may find several starfish scattered along the beach and/or sea creatures caught in the rockier part of the beach.
If you miss strolling along Boracay’s white sand and enjoying the sunset over the blue waters, then head over to Camiguin. Slowly and surely, the island has been amassing a following of travelers who’ve fallen in love with its azure waters, white sand and gorgeous sunrises and sunsets. Though fairly popular, White Island has a handful of visitors when it isn’t summer - so when visiting off-season, you might have the whole place to yourselves!
Ready to check out these Boracary alternatives? Make sure you book your flight and hotel with Traveloka!