Early in the 1970s, standing on Boracay’s White Beach, you would have enjoyed the same magnificent white sand and ocean vistas that you do now. The bustling world that now resides in the area beyond the shore is what has changed so drastically. Boracay was essentially a mystery for centuries. A secret treasure tucked away in the Western Visayas that is only seldom discovered by intrepid explorers. Boracay, like most of The Philippines, was challenging to reach. Regular buses, boats, and airplanes were not available. Two motion pictures with Boracay Island in them were released in 1970. Nam’s Angels, also known as “The Losers” and “Too Late The Hero” in the United States, suddenly made Boracay’s beauty visible to the world for the first time.
A few years later, in 1978, the German author Jens Peter called the island “paradise on earth” in his book about the Philippines, which raised awareness of the place even further. This rapid surge of global interest led to some tourism on the island. However, visitor numbers were still quite low. Aguirre’s Beach House and White Beach Resthouse, which cost 5 and 10 pesos per night respectively, were the only guesthouses on the entire island at this time. Boracay gained numerous travel honors during this time, the most prestigious of which was “World’s Best Island,” given by Travel & Leisure in 2012. Due to this constant focus, tourism exploded in expansion, but the infrastructure needed to accommodate this increase lagged behind. Serious sustainability challenges, like foul water spilling into the streets in several localities, began to emerge in 2015.
The declaration that Boracay would be shuttered for up to six months, beginning on April 26, was made by Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte on April 4. In order to enable for the island’s rehabilitation, it was closed from April to October 2018. The long-term process of upgrading began, which involved everything from creating safer sidewalks and better-quality road surfaces to updating drainage and energy systems. While some locals found this change to be traumatic, most people think that it was the right decision. The short-term inconvenience is well outweighed by the long-term gains, and everyone will eventually get to enjoy a more environmentally friendly and sustainable Boracay Island. Boracay is a small, picturesque island located in the central Philippines. It is renowned for its pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, vibrant nightlife, and stunning natural beauty. Here’s an overview of what Boracay has to offer:
- White Beach: Boracay’s White Beach is often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It boasts powdery, soft, white sand that stretches for approximately four kilometers along the island’s western side. The beach is divided into three main stations, each offering a slightly different atmosphere and amenities.
- Water Activities: Boracay is a water sports enthusiast’s paradise. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, kiteboarding, windsurfing, parasailing, and island hopping. The island’s clear waters and vibrant marine life make it a prime destination for underwater adventures.
- Sunsets: Boracay is famous for its stunning sunsets, and there’s no better place to witness them than from the beachfront. The sunsets are a daily spectacle that draws crowds to the shoreline for breathtaking views.
- Nightlife: Boracay offers a lively nightlife scene, particularly along the beachfront at Station 2. There are numerous bars, restaurants, and clubs where visitors can enjoy live music, fire dancers, and beach parties that last well into the night.
- Diverse Dining: The island offers a wide range of dining options, from beachfront seafood grills to international cuisine and local Filipino dishes. There are plenty of opportunities to savor fresh seafood and tropical fruits.
- Island Hopping: Exploring Boracay’s neighboring islands and islets is a popular activity. Boat tours can take you to locations like Puka Beach, Ariel’s Point, and Crystal Cove Island, each offering unique experiences.
- Mount Luho: For panoramic views of the island, consider hiking or renting an ATV to reach the summit of Mount Luho, the highest point in Boracay.
- Boutique Resorts and Luxury Hotels: Boracay offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts and boutique hotels. Many of these establishments are located right on the beach, providing easy access to the island’s beauty.
- Environmental Conservation: In recent years, Boracay has undergone efforts to rehabilitate and sustain its environment. Regulations have been put in place to preserve the island’s natural beauty and reduce pollution.
- Local Culture: While Boracay is known for its tourist attractions, it also has a rich local culture. Visitors can explore nearby villages and interact with the friendly locals to gain a deeper understanding of the island’s heritage.
In summary, Boracay is a tropical paradise that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, water sports, vibrant nightlife, and relaxation. Whether you’re seeking adventure or a tranquil beach getaway, Boracay has something for every traveler to enjoy.
