Hidden beauty spots of Boracay
Stunning vistas over Bulabog Beach from Mount Luho
The stunning island of Boracay is undoubtedly one of the gems of the Philippines and has developed into an international tourist hotspot. However, with mass tourism comes overcrowding and while some of the most beautiful pristine beaches – such as White Beach and Bulabog Beach – may still be idyllic sites, you will have to share them with numerous other travellers.
Tourists looking for a little more privacy should take a trip to Baling Hai Beach. It is one of the few places on Boracay where you can enjoy the true feeling of seclusion together with the sight of the blue waters and the sound of the gentle waves, giving you the impression of being alone on a tropical island.
Baling Hai offers the perfect contrast to White Beach and, adding to the feeling of isolation, the best way to reach it is to row a canoe-like paraw vessel, from White Beach. Excellent swimming and snorkelling can be enjoyed here, while a beautifully set cliff-top restaurant offers incredible island views for as far as the eye can see. More on beaches.
Situated at the north end of Bulabog Beach, Mount Luho may not be isolated in terms of location but it does offer a fairly peaceful few hours away from the crowds simply as a lot of people are put off by the effort required to reach the top.
The altitude of the little mountain is roughly 100 metres above sea level, making it Boracay’s highest point. There are various ways of reaching the summit, including on foot, renting a bug car or ATV, or paying a local tricycle driver to take you up. Whatever you opt for, the views from the top are absolutely stunning and make the effort all worthwhile.
Crocodile Island, in the south of Boracay, is a superb spot for divers and snorkellers, although the latter should beware that the currents, at times, are particularly strong. Named due to its croc-like shape, the area has a depth of 80 feet and is teeming with marine life including sea snakes, garden eels and anemones.
It is home to soft, leathery corals and gorgonians which have similarities to those on Borneo’s Sipadan Island. The area offers a great day out made even more special as only a small proportion of travellers take the opportunity to experience it.
Boracay Bat Caves are extremely spooky!
Dead Forest is a part of the island which provides a striking contrast to the awe-inspiring coastline and idyllic beaches. This forest is desolated, with lifeless tree trunks appearing out of stagnant murky water, yet evokes a strange beauty which is fascinating to the naked eye. Unsurprisingly for such an eerie environment, there are numerous local folk tales of supernatural occurrences happening here, especially on full moon nights.
Another intriguing site away from the sun-drenched beaches and ideal for adventure junkies includes the Bat Caves in the west of Boracay. This unique spot can only be reached by hiking through the forest, and upon exiting the dense vegetation you will be confronted by the awesome sight of the mouth of the cavern.
The cave is home to both giant fruit bats and small cave species which take over the area after sunset. Once inside the cave it plunges down at a steep angle and there is a notable humidity in the air. There are also some uniquely formed stalactites hanging from the roof which add to its natural mystique.
The island’s second largest beach, Puka Beach, was named after the puka shells which are found here. These shells, white due to being bleached by the scorching sun, were gathered by innovative locals to produce a variety of jewellery. The beach is in Boracay’s northernmost area and remains surprisingly secluded.
Puka Beach makes a perfect daytrip away from some of the packed touristy areas and, although there are a few vendors wandering the sands, it is nowhere near as commercial as other beaches, so bringing some food and cold drinks is generally a good idea. The beautiful setting and lack of large tourist numbers make it quite a romantic destination, while those really wanting to impress could try the lone seafood restaurant which serves a range of delicious house specialties straight from the ocean. More on restaurants.
Another semi-secluded beach on Boracay is Cagban Beach, the beach port of the island. Many tourists arrive in Cagban but pass the area by in favour of the more renowned stretches. However, it boasts the crystal clear waters and soft, white sand which the island is famous for and is accessible by land or by boat. This makes it worthwhile to stick around in for a few days, especially if you’re looking for a bit of peace and quiet.
