Why Boracay Should Be On Your Bucket List: A Guide to the Island's Best Beaches
What is Boracay, and why does everyone keep talking about it?
Nestled in the central Philippines, Boracay is a small but world-famous island measuring just about 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) long and 1 kilometer (0.6 miles) wide. But don’t let its size fool you—this tropical destination is known for its powdery white sand, clear turquoise waters, and laid-back island charm.
Whether you're a beach lover, a travel photographer, or just someone in need of a breathtaking escape, Boracay is the kind of place that sticks with you.
But there's more to it than just stunning beaches—Boracay is packed with incredible sights, unforgettable excursions, water adventures, beautiful hidden corners, delicious food, vibrant sunsets, and some of the warmest, kindest people you’ll ever meet. And in this blog, I’ll be sharing it all—from travel tips to photography moments, to the magic that makes this island truly special.
🌊 So Many Beaches, So Little Time
Boracay is home to multiple beaches, each offering a different vibe:
Some beaches are bustling with life—think live music, restaurants, and crowds.
Others are more secluded, requiring a tuk-tuk, motorbike, or even a boat ride to get there.
Surfers and beginners will also find waves to ride on specific coasts of the island.
But let’s be honest, most visitors start at White Beach, and for good reason.
White Beach, Boracay
📍 The Iconic White Beach: What You Need to Know
Stretching 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) along the island’s western coast, White Beach is divided into three main stations, each with its own character:
Station 1 – Located at the northern end of White Beach, Station 1 is known for its quieter atmosphere and upscale resorts. The sand here is the finest and softest on the island, and the beach is wider—perfect for peaceful morning walks or serene photo sessions. You’ll find luxury beachfront hotels and boutique resorts with direct beach access. Fewer vendors, less foot traffic, and iconic views (including Willy’s Rock) make this area ideal for travelers who want to relax and unwind in style. It's also a favorite spot for honeymooners and couples seeking a quieter escape.
Station 2 – If you want to be in the center of it all, Station 2 is where the buzz is. It’s packed with restaurants, bars, shops, D’Mall (Boracay’s open-air shopping complex), and nightlife. During the day, the beach is filled with sunbathers and tourists hopping on boat tours; by night, the area transforms into a lively scene with fire dancers, beach DJs, and parties. It’s noisy, colorful, and energetic—great if you love being in the middle of the action and want plenty of dining and entertainment options right at your doorstep.
Station 3 – located at the southern end of White Beach, has a more rustic and untouched vibe. It’s where you’ll find backpacker hostels, eco-lodges, and modest beachfront accommodations, often surrounded by lush greenery. The beach here is narrower, and development is more scattered. While it didn’t impress me as much visually, it’s perfect if you’re after peace and don’t mind fewer amenities. Station 3 also tends to be more budget-friendly, making it a solid option for longer stays or those seeking a simpler, slower-paced experience.
🕖 Why Mornings Are Your Best Friend in Boracay
It’s a well-known travel tip that the early morning hours are the secret to enjoying any popular destination without the crowds—and Boracay is no exception.
Waking up early on the island comes with major rewards:
✨ The sunrise is insanely beautiful. Whether you’re a photographer or just someone who appreciates nature, the changing colors in the sky are absolutely magical. If you want to catch the sun rising over the water, head to Bulabog Beach—the views there are unforgettable. But don’t discount White Beach either—although it faces west, it still gets that dreamy morning glow that’s perfect for a peaceful start to the day.
📸 The island is almost empty in the early hours, which makes it ideal for taking beautiful photos and videos. If you're someone who wants that clean, postcard-worthy shot without tons of tourists in the background, this is the time to do it.
🌤️ The lighting is soft and flattering, especially before 8–9 a.m., making it a dream for content creation or casual snapshots. No harsh shadows, no squinting, just golden light and calm vibes.
As a photographer, I had the pleasure of capturing a stunning family photoshoot one morning on White Beach—and let me tell you, the results were epic. The soft sand, pastel skies, and empty shoreline created the perfect natural set.
🎣 Bonus: You’ll also beat the lines at popular cafés, boat tours, and attractions, which means more time enjoying and less time waiting.
If there’s one piece of advice I can give you for your Boracay trip: don’t sleep in—at least not every day!
Captured by Me: Sunrise Family Session at White Beach, Boracay
📸 Final Thoughts
If you're planning your trip or just daydreaming, let me be the first to say: Boracay is worth it. Yes, the journey can be long and chaotic (I learned that the hard way—full story in my earlier post!), but the views, the vibe, and the moments you'll create here make every layover worth it.
This is just the beginning of my travel photography journey—and I can’t wait to take you along for the ride.