Last week, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte announced that Boracay would be closed for six months this summer, much to the dismay of LaBoracay party goers (and many of the people who live and work there). Don’t fret, though. If a summer destination is all that you’re looking for, we’ve asked around for 15 alternatives to Boracay that you can spend your vacation in this summer.
15 Alternatives to Boracay You Can Visit this Summer
15. Camiguin
Normal Villamayor says Camiguin would be a nice alternative to Boracay for the summer. Why? For starters, Camiguin is called the island born of fire – and that name alone warrants it a visit. This small paradise is perfect for people looking for some peace and quiet yet who still want to experience some form of adventure during their vacation.
Sandbar on White Island, Camiguin
Here are 5 more reasons why you should explore Camiguin.
14. Subic Beach
Gillego Leopoldo, Jr. recommends Subic Beach in Matnog, Sorsogon. (Yes, there is another Subic out there aside from the one in Zambales.) What sets this beach apart from the rest is the fact that it has pinkish sand, which it derives from red corals crushed and mixed into white sand. The water also has a beautiful turquoise color and there are many nipa huts and coconut trees for you to marvel at while you’re there, as well.
See more photos of this gorgeous pink beach here.
13. Onok Island
Love sandbars? Eunice Reyes suggests visiting Onok Island. This island, which is part of the Balabac Group of Islands in the South of Palawan, is full of sandbars during low tide. However, it is still a sight to behold during high tide as you will get to see all of the stunning blue and aquamarine colors of the island. Watch this video by Ramed Hizole Recto to see what his trip to Onok Island was like:
12. Coron
Who hasn’t heard of Coron? For Kevin Yapjoco, this is a must-visit this summer. Coron has a lot to offer from hot springs to local coffee to stunning sights around the island. If you go island-hopping, you’ll get to see the best that Coron has to offer, including Siete Pecados, the Hidden Lagoon, Kayangan Lake and the absolutely stunning Twin Lagoon.
Only there for a short time? Here’s how you can make the most of 48 hours in Coron.
11. Port Barton
Speaking of Palawan, John Michael Bueno also recommends Port Barton, one of the more underrated islands of Palawan. Located North of Puerto Princesa, Port Barton is the perfect escape for those looking for some piece and quiet in a world of picturesque beauty.
Here’s a guide to Port Barton to help you out.
10. Anda Beach
Emerald Ridao boasts that Anda Beach in Bohol is pure love. With a strip of fine white sand as beautiful as Boracay, it is hard not to fall in love with Anda Beach and everything that you can find surrounding it, including the Cadapdapan Rice Terraces and Can-Umantad Falls.
9. Pannzian Beach
Pagudpud is one place that our When in Manila admins always rave about. Our PR Director Mae Ilagan told us that she had read and heard quite a lot of touching stories and legends about love and healing revolving around Pannzian Beach before; but it wasn’t until she actually sat down on its short that she fully felt and understood all of them. It’s one of those things you apparently need to experience for yourself.
Read more about Pannzian Beach here.
8. Guimaras
Guimaras in Iloilo is an exotic island that every Filipino should be proud of. side from its historical structures and striking beaches, Guimaras is also known to offer the most delicious and the sweetest mangoes in the country. Michelle Melo highly recommends going there for the sweet mangoes, and for the peace and quiet. But of course, if it’s a beach you’re after, island-hopping should be on your to-do list whilst there.
Did you know that they have a Manggahan Festival?
7. Nacpan Beach
Phylicia Pangilinan says that El Nino, in general, is a must-visit, but Nacpan Beach more specifically so. This impressive beach is located right next to Twin Beach and is absolutely insanely beautiful. Filled with palm trees and fine white sand, and surrounded by turquoise water and jungle hills, our writer Christian Vollmert says the place is the absolute definition of being lost in paradise.
6. Duli Beach
Not far from Nacpan is Duli Beach, which is the perfect beach to visit if you want to go surfing. The waves there get pretty high and the beach is beautiful and serene. Surf and chill all at the same time.
5. Bantayan
Bantayan is absolutely lovely and there are so many things to do there. Aside from island hopping and enjoying the beaches, however, make sure you check out Ogtong Cave, as well, where you will find the clearest waters to swim in. It’s definitely one thing you need to experience at least once in your life.
4. Bonbon Beach
Romblon has a lot of heritage sites and beautiful spots for you to enjoy scenery in, as well as pure white sand beaches and dive spots. If you’re looking to relax somewhere that isn’t crowded, Bonbon Beach in Romblon is a great choice with its clear waters, white sands, breathtaking sandbar, and emptiness.
3. Isla de Gigantes
Nerissa Subido exclaims that the Gigantes Islands in Iloilo are incredibly beautiful. There are 10 islands there, in general, but most island-hopping tours will take you to the 4 most accessible ones. Aside from being gorgeous, underrated, and less packed than other islands in the Philippines; another beautiful thing about Gigantes is the fact that they are very active when it comes to practicing responsible tourism.
Read more about Gigantes here.
2. Calaguas Island
Harry Santos highly recommends Calaguas Island. For those who plan on traveling alone this summer, or have never traveled alone but are thinking of doing so; this would be a great place for you to start as the place welcomes solo travelers and backpackers. Whether you’re traveling alone or not, though, there is plenty of things for you to fall in love with in Calaguas, so feel free to bring your family or your barkada with you.
Here are eight tips to help you make the most of your Calaguas experience.
1. Siquijor
Mark Sigmon recommends Siquijor. “Although it is not a party island like Boracay, its beauty is bountiful,” he says. He also suggests renting a scooter to explore the island and all of its beauty. If you simply want to chill, Siquijor is a great place to go, though there are also some diving spots in the area that you can check out if the need for some adventure arises.
Where will you be going this summer and who will you be traveling with? 🙂 Share your favorite summer stories with us!
