In the day-to-day grind of city life in Singapore, we rarely stop to smell the (figurative) roses. Just like in “Sunrise, Sunset”, the iconic song from the musical “Fiddler on the Roof”, the days and weeks flow by swiftly, and we find ourselves often yearning for a change of pace, a short break from the hustle and bustle of Singapore.
The best thing to do when you’re feeling burnt out with work and life in an urban environment is to take a vacation, and what better place to visit, where you can appreciate the simple things in life, than Boracay in the Philippines?
A tiny island in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines, don’t be fooled by Boracay’s small footprint. The island has garnered a reputation for itself as a stunning beach paradise. Recognized by numerous travel publications as the best island in the world, Boracay is most famous for the White Beach, a 4 kilometre stretch of perfect sand, blue waters, live music and never-ending parties.
The best part about Boracay’s size is that this allows visitors to enjoy picture-perfect views of the sunset and sunrise from just about anywhere. While the famed White Beach is a popular spot to kick back and watch the sun mark the passing of time, there are many other places where you can catch equally spectacular views. Considering how small Boracay is, you can easily get to these places on a hired tricycle or pedicab.
Here are some of the best spots where you can be mesmerized by the beauty of a sunrise and sunset in Boracay.
The best way to admire the sunrise is by getting above sea level. Mount Luho is one of the top spots (quite literally) to watch the sun come up. You can get to the summit on a hired bike, or put on your hiking boots and make your way up on foot. The view from the top is stunning, and you can just about see all of Boracay in its glory from that vantage point. Just make sure you check the timing of the sunrise before you set off, and get there in time to avoid missing the experience. Even if you aren’t a morning person, we’re sure this sunrise is worth waking up for.
Carved within a cliff, Balinghai Beach isn’t like most beaches. With large rocks scattered around the coast, the light from the rising sun casts dramatic shadows, making for a unique backdrop. The best part however, is that Balinghai Beach is tucked away from the crowds of White Beach, which makes for a serene experience. Get there early, and you’ll witness the sunrise accompanied by just the sound of the waves rolling into the shore - pure bliss.
Bulabog Beach is an excellent place to stay at during your time in Boracay, with multiple accommodation options. It also happens to be one of Boracay’s hubs for adventure sports, so you’ll have plenty to keep yourself occupied with. If you’re staying there, and manage to wake up on time, you’ll witness something absolutely divine – the reddish-pink hues of the morning sun, blending into the stark blue of the water. All of this is framed below by the pristine white sand of the beach; and for a moment, you really will believe you’re in heaven.
At the southernmost point of Boracay is Manoc-Manoc Beach, arguably the best place for watching the sunset due to the vast expanse of water that confronts your view. Since it’s quite close to White Beach, all you need to do is grab a refreshing drink, and take a short evening walk, with the sand between your toes and the cool breeze flowing through your hair.
Diniwid Beach offers a lovely view of the sunset from an elevated cliff near the sea. A 15 minute walk from Station 1, getting there is easy. Much like Balinghai Beach, the coastline is visually defined by the dramatic outlines of the rocks scattered everywhere. During the sunset, the sun fades away into the backdrop, briefly illuminating the glistening rocks, making for a priceless view. Before you leave, make sure you get a few silhouette photos against the setting sun.
At the northern end of the island is Yapak or Puka Shell Beach, which is named after the Puka shells that are strewn across its white sands. With the seemingly endless sea in front of you, the orange and red hues of the setting sun across the sky and the unique textured sand at Puka Beach, there really isn’t a better way to relax and start your evening in paradise.
