Search of New Boracay

Boracay Island, one of the many exquisite beaches in the Philippines, has gained world recognition as one of the “Best Island in the World” by several international media organizations and travel websites, such as Travel+Leisure Magazine, CNN, and TripAdvisor. It is no doubt that Boracay Island has become one of the most frequented beaches in the country by many travel and beach enthusiasts worldwide. Its natural aura and white, powder-like sand has made it well-known in the global setting.

However, in 2018, the Philippine government has been keen on rehabilitating the island due to irresponsible waste management and excessive commercialism. Recently, the government has announced Boracay’s closure beginning on April 26, 2018.  This situation has opened tourists, both local and foreign, to explore other equally beautiful beaches in the country in time for the scorching hot season.

Although it is saddening that we must bid our goodbye to Boracay for the meantime, the Philippines is a home to more than 7000 islands. Certainly, we can discover new Boracay in other provinces in the country.

Consider these developing beaches that are at par with Boracay and worth visiting, too.

1) San Vicente’s Long Beach – Palawan

Photo Credit: By Jimaggro [CC BY-SA 4.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)], from Wikimedia Commons

Why consider it the new Boracay:  San Vicente, one of the municipalities in Palawan, prides its 14.7-kilometer beachfront, known as Long Beach. The coastline covers four barangays; hence, the longest white sand beach in the Philippines, roughly three times the length of Boracay’s White Beach. It has two rocky cliffs interrupting the coastlines, dividing the area into three distinct coves. Devoid of big resorts, this hidden gem in Palawan continues to attract more tourists.

Travel Time: From Puerto Princesa City, travel time to San Vicente takes four to five hours by land.

Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, island hopping and beach camping.

Tip: Many of its accommodations are situated in the town center, which is a 10-to 15-minute motorcycle ride from the beach. New beachfront hotels are now accessible in Barangay New Agutaya.

2) Great Santa Cruz Island – Zamboanga

Photo Credit: By Wowzamboangacity [CC BY 3.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0)], from Wikimedia Commons

Why consider it the new Boracay: Great Santa Cruz Island is recognized for its pink-hued sand. The pulverized red pipe corals produce the pinkish color of the sand, making it to the list of National Geographic’s 21 best beaches in the world.  Having a protected landscape and seascape under Presidential Proclamation 271, Great Santa Cruz Island observes responsible ecotourism.

Travel Time: A 15-20-minute boat ride from the city, this 251-hectare beach is open only for day tour visit.

Activities: swimming, snorkeling, diving, beach volleyball, and fishing.

Tip: Securing tourism permit is necessary when visiting Great Santa Cruz Island. Get it at Department of Tourism in Zamboanga. The permit includes armed security escorts since security remains a concern in the province.  Nonetheless, if you want to witness a different view of the beach, Great Santa Cruz Island should be part of your list.

3) Magalawa Island – Zambales

Photo Credit: By Ignacio Malapitan III [CC BY-SA 3.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)], from Wikimedia Commons

Why consider it the new Boracay:  This 56-hectare island boasts its fine, white sand and pristine sandbar. It is known as “Island of the Stars” due to the abundance of starfish on the island.

 Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, island hopping, beach camping, kayakingTravel Time: From Manila, via private vehicle, it takes 4 hours to reach Palauig, Zambales. Then, add 10 to 15 minutes boat ride going to Magalawa Island. When taking a public utility vehicle, expect a longer travel time. After six hours of bus ride, take a tricycle going to the port. From the port, ride a boat going to Magalawa Island. Approximately, a 10-15-minute boat ride towards Magalawa Island.

Tip: There are two resorts available in this island – Ruiz Resort and Armada Resort. Both resorts offer packages, which include boat transportation, meals, snorkeling, and accommodation.

Before you get enthralled with these beaches natural yet unique beauty, we are encouraging everyone to take care of your skin. This is especially true since the Philippines is a tropical country. Protect your skin with Novelina Advanced Sunscreen SPF 80. This advanced sunscreen has SPF 80 that effectively shields your skin from the damaging effects of UVA and UVB rays, providing optimum sun and UV protection.  It also has snail serum, an ingredient responsible for repairing and healing the skin due to overexposure to the sun. In addition to sun protection and healing, it is water-resistant.

Novelina Advanced Sunscreen SPF 80 is available in all leading department stores nationwide. For only P299.00, be sun protected, whenever, wherever.

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