After two years of canceled plans, lockdowns, and constantly changing travel restrictions, we were finally able to travel again. It honestly felt surreal. If you are planning a trip back to Aklan, experiencing a classic Boracay White Beach sunset is an absolute non-negotiable. Grab a cold drink, settle in, and let me share what it felt like to return to the island, escape city stress, and watch the sun dip below the horizon!
✈️ Day 1 – Sunshine, Sand, and Spontaneity
In April 2022, my friend and I decided it was time for a much-needed beach escape, so we booked a spontaneous trip to Boracay. The government had just eased domestic travel restrictions, and for the first time in what felt like forever, traveling suddenly seemed possible again. We didn’t overthink it—we just packed our bags and answered the beach’s call.
Our three-day adventure officially began at NAIA Terminal 3—my first time back at the airport since the pandemic. It felt strange yet exciting to be traveling again after such a long pause.
Our flight was scheduled for 11:55 AM. I took the MRT and waited for the Airport Loop Bus near McDonald’s Taft, but after about 15 minutes with no sign of it, I gave up and hopped on a jeepney heading to the airport instead. Thankfully, I still made it with plenty of time to spare.
After checking in, my friend and I grabbed coffee and sandwiches while waiting for boarding. Before we knew it, we were in the air. The flight to Caticlan took only about 40 minutes, and we were welcomed by bright, sunny skies as soon as we landed.
Sometimes, the journey to paradise starts with a jeepney and ends with a tricycle.
From Caticlan Airport, we hopped on a tricycle to Caticlan Jetty Port, paying Php100 each. The port was already buzzing with activity, with travelers lining up to settle the environmental fee, terminal fee, and boat fare. After presenting our Online Health Declaration (OHD) QR Code, we finally boarded the boat bound for Boracay.
The 20-minute ride to the island was quick, and before we knew it, we were stepping closer to the beach escape we had been waiting for.
Upon arrival, we took another e-trike (Php100 each) to our hostel in Station 1. It was tucked away from the busy main road, hidden behind a narrow alley in a quiet residential area—a simple and peaceful spot that felt like a nice break from the usual tourist crowd.
🌴 Day 1 (continued) – The Island Rhythm Returns
We stayed at The Lazy Dog Bed and Breakfast, a peaceful spot perfect for travelers who want a breather from the island’s usual buzz. The place had a homey, laid-back vibe. Its open-air common area, filled with floor cushions, made it a cozy space for eating, chatting, or even working on a laptop.
Our air-conditioned twin room (booked via Agoda) included a private bathroom, hot and cold showers, free Wi-Fi, towels, soap, and complimentary breakfast.
We didn’t waste time—we headed straight to the beach and wandered around D’Mall at Station 2, a lively area with cafes, restaurants, and souvenir stalls. After a bit of shopping, we chilled at Sensi Italian Restaurant with avocado and banana shakes, then made our way to White Beach for the famous Boracay sunset and a much-needed dip in the sea.
The waves don’t ask questions. They just welcome you back.
For dinner, we tried Queen Bee Co. Chinese restaurant inside D’Mall. Our meal—buttered chicken, rice, and fish soup—was delicious (Php750 for two). A bit pricey, but worth it after a long day.
After dinner, we strolled back to our hostel and rested, happy to be exactly where we were.
Tips for Capturing & Enjoying the Sunset
- Arrive by 5:00 PM: Stake out your spot on the sand or grab a table early, as prime beachfront seating fills up fast.
- Stay for the Afterglow: Don’t leave immediately after the sun disappears! The most dramatic pink, orange, and purple twilight hues often appear 15–20 minutes after the sun sets below the horizon.
- Try Paraw Sailing: Booking a sunset sailboat ride gives you an incredible perspective from out on the water looking back at the island.
🌧️ Day 2 – When the Rain Becomes Part of the Story
We woke up to a steady drizzle. Tropical Storm Agaton was making its presence felt across the Visayas. Still in our pajamas, we headed down for breakfast. I ordered beef tapa, two fried eggs, and a cup of hot coffee.
Rain or shine, travel still teaches you something.
With no solid plans, we wandered back to Station 2. On the way, a local from Bamboo Company approached us with an island-hopping offer. Why not? We signed up for Php600 each for a 5–6 hour trip with a buffet lunch.
Despite the rain and choppy waves, we visited Balinghai Beach and Diniwid Beach in the island’s north. Puka Beach was skipped due to rough seas.
After our island hopping tour, we had a buffet lunch at Bamboo Beach Resort before returning to the hostel to freshen up. Later, we went back to the beach, grabbed our caffeine fix at Starbucks, and wandered through the damp but lively Station 2.
Dinner was another chicken meal at Sensi. Comfort food on a gray day. The rain didn’t stop, so we called it an early night.
🌥️ Day 3 – Rainy Goodbyes and Cloudy Horizons
It was still raining when we woke up. We had our final breakfast at the hostel: chicken tocino, two eggs, and coffee. After packing our bags, we checked out early to avoid potential delays.
Even a rainy goodbye can’t dampen the magic of the island.
We took one last stroll along Bulabog Beach, just a short walk from our hostel. Compared to Station 2, Bulabog was calm, breezy, and relaxed. It’s a favorite for kiteboarding and windsurfing, especially among those who want a quieter escape.
We then hired an e-trike to Cagban Port, paid the terminal (Php100) and boat fee (Php50), and took the boat back to Caticlan Jetty Port. From there, we rode another e-trike to Caticlan Airport.
We were offered an earlier flight at 11:40 AM, which we gladly accepted. Better to leave ahead of the storm. Though our flight was delayed by an hour, we landed safely in Manila.
And just when we thought it was over, Metro Manila traffic greeted us with open arms. The airport was packed, lines for taxis were endless, and the streets were flooded with people trying to get home.
We ended our journey with a warm meal at Wendy’s, grateful for the memories despite the stormy twists. Boracay still has that magic, even when it’s raining. Until next time, paradise. 🌊💙
📝 My Island Takeaways
Every trip teaches you something—about the place, the people, and yourself.
- 🐾 Two friendly, lazy dogs roam The Lazy Dog B&B. No barking—just chill vibes.
- 💻 Wi-Fi was a bit slow, but the ambiance made up for it.
- 🛏️ Our stay: Php4,137.22 (3D2N, good for 2 people).
- 🚶 The hostel is a 10-minute walk to D’Mall; locals can easily give directions.
- 🛣️ At night, we used the beachfront path—dimly lit but safe. Always stay alert.
- 🍽️ Boracay has endless food options for every taste and budget.
- 🚌 Jeep rides to/from NAIA are fast and cheap (Php9), but avoid them if you have bulky luggage.
- 🚍 P2P buses are better with luggage but slow. Only 1 bus was running that day; the fare is now Php40 (pre-pandemic: Php20).
FAQ: Boracay White Beach Sunset & Travel Guide
How do I get to Boracay from Manila?
Local airlines, including **Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, and AirAsia Philippines offer multiple daily flights from Manila (MNL) to Caticlan Airport (MPH). From the airport, it is a quick trip to Caticlan Jetty Port, followed by a 15-minute boat ride to Boracay Island.
How do I get from Caticlan Airport to Caticlan Jetty Port?
The port is located just 1 kilometer from the airport. You can take a quick 5-minute e-trike or tricycle from the airport terminal exit (~100 PHP per ride), hop on an airport shuttle van (~50–100 PHP per person), or take a 10-to-15-minute walk if you are traveling light with a backpack.
What time is the sunset at White Beach in Boracay?
The sunset in Boracay typically occurs between 5:30 PM and 6:00 PM year-round. It is best to be on the beach by 5:00 PM to catch the full golden hour light.
How much does Paraw sailing cost in Boracay during sunset?
A shared sunset Paraw sailboat ride generally costs between 300 and 500 PHP per person. Private boat hires usually range from 1,200 to 1,800 PHP depending on group size and season.
Which station in Boracay has the best sunset view?
Both Station 1 and Station 2 offer direct western views of the sunset. Station 1 is ideal for a peaceful, spacious setting, while Station 2 is great for beachfront dining during golden hour.
Boracay welcomed us back with sun, rain, and everything in between. And even though the storm changed our plans, the island still gave us what we needed—rest, reconnection, and a beautiful reminder that joy returns, eventually.
📅 Travel Dates: April 09 – 11, 2022 | A long-awaited return to island life
