Step away from the busy White Beach of Boracay Island for a moment, and let’s discover a more serene spot: Banyugan Beach. This less-traveled beach is a peaceful retreat where you can really relax. Here, you find stunning white sand, clear blue water, and a calm vibe that you won’t easily find at the busier beaches. If you need a break from the everyday hustle and bustle, Banyugan Beach should be your top pick.
Getting to Banyugan Beach
Banyugan Beach is hidden away from the main beach action on Boracay, making it special. The easiest way to reach it is through the Shangri-La Boracay resort, as this beach is part of their property. The best part? You don’t have to stay at the resort to enjoy it; you can typically buy a day pass.
Here’s how to get there:
- Through Shangri-La Boracay: This is the most direct method. You can check at the resort entrance to see if they are offering day passes. The cost is usually around PHP 6,000 ($100 USD) or more and includes access to the beach, pools, and sometimes food and drinks. It’s smart to check their website or reach out directly to find the most accurate pricing and what’s included.
- Alternative access: On occasion, you can stroll from Diniwid Beach to Banyugan during low tide. It’s an adventurous way to reach the beach, but be sure to look at tide charts and be ready to splash through some shallow waters. Always remember to respect the Shangri-La property and stick close to the shoreline.
You might also consider taking an ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle) ride as another option to reach the beach. There are a number of rental places on Boracay that provide ATV tours, and some may include a stop at or close to Diniwid Beach, from where you can walk to Banyugan if it’s accessible based on the tide. ATV rentals generally cost between PHP 1,500 and PHP 3,000 ($25 to $50 USD), depending on how long you want to rent it and what’s included.
What to Expect on Banyugan Beach
Prepare to be amazed! Banyugan Beach is all about peacefulness and relaxation. Here’s what makes it special:
- Pristine White Sand: The sand here is incredibly soft and white, just right for lounging or building sandcastles if you’re in the mood!
- Clear Turquoise Water: The crystal clear water is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply enjoying the refreshing waves. If you venture out a little, you may find beautiful corals and some lively marine life.
- Tranquil Atmosphere: Banyugan Beach is less crowded, providing a tranquil atmosphere. You can truly enjoy the sounds of nature, like the gentle waves and chirping birds, which is a fantastic break from the typical beach noise.
- Shangri-La Amenities: If you’ve got a day pass, you can take advantage of the resort’s comfortable beach chairs, umbrellas, and even food and drink service. Even without the pass, the beach is well-kept and clean, thanks to the presence of Shangri-La.
Things to Do on Banyugan Beach
Even though the main draw is to relax, there are plenty of fun activities to try:
- Swimming and Sunbathing: The calm waters are perfect for an enjoyable swim, while the soft sand invites you to sunbathe comfortably.
- Snorkeling: Bring your own snorkeling gear or rent some, and explore the vibrant coral reefs just off the shore. You’re likely to see colorful fish and other fascinating marine creatures. Some day passes at Shangri-La can include snorkeling activities.
- Massage: Some resorts provide relaxing beachfront massages. Picture yourself indulging in a soothing massage while listening to the waves. Prices typically range from PHP 800 to PHP 2,000 ($13 to $33 USD) depending on the length and type of massage.
- Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP): Rent a paddleboard and cruise along the coastline at your own speed. You can find rental shops near Diniwid or White Beach, and rates usually range from PHP 500 to PHP 1,000 ($8 to $17 USD) per hour.
- Simply Relaxing: Bring along a good book and a cold drink, and just unwind. Banyugan Beach is an ideal place to escape daily stress.
Where to Eat and Drink
If you have a day pass for Shangri-La, you can enjoy their restaurants and bars. Rima Mediterranean Tides and Sirena Fish Restaurant can be found right inside the resort. However, if you venture outside Shangri-La, your best options will be along Diniwid Beach, where you can find smaller restaurants and bars like Wahine Beach Bar, which is known for its relaxed vibe. Expect to spend approximately PHP 300 to PHP 800 ($5 to $13 USD) for meals and around PHP 100 to PHP 300 ($1.60 to $5 USD) for drinks in those establishments.
Tips for Visiting Banyugan Beach
Here are some handy tips to help you enjoy your visit to the fullest:
- Check Day Pass Availability: If you aren’t staying at Shangri-La, make sure you check their website or contact them ahead of time to find out about day pass availability and pricing.
- Bring Sun Protection: The sun in Boracay can be really strong. Bring protected sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to shield yourself.
- Stay Hydrated: Make sure to drink enough water, especially if you’re outside enjoying the sun.
- Respect the Environment: Help to keep Banyugan Beach beautiful by not leaving trash behind.
- Consider the Tide: If you plan to walk from Diniwid Beach, be sure to look at tide charts to know when it’s low tide.
- Bring Cash: While some places accept credit cards, it’s wise to carry some cash for smaller vendors and purchases.
FAQ
Here are some common questions about Banyugan Beach:
Can I access Banyugan Beach if I’m not staying at Shangri-La?
Yes, commonly you can. Just check with the Shangri-La Boracay resort about day passes. Alternatively, you may also walk over from Diniwid Beach at low tide, but this is dependent on tidal conditions and accessibility.
How much does a day pass to Shangri-La Boracay cost?
Day pass prices can vary, but expect to pay about PHP 6,000 ($100 USD) or more. It’s best to confirm current rates and what’s included directly with the resort, as these details can change based on the season and available promotions.
Is Banyugan Beach good for swimming?
Absolutely! The calm and clear waters make Banyugan Beach a great place for swimming, and it’s typically safe for visitors of all ages.
Are there restaurants and bars on Banyugan Beach?
Dining options right on Banyugan Beach depend on access to Shangri-La, so resort options are available. However, just outside, Diniwid Beach boasts a couple of nice restaurants and bars for visitors.
What should I bring to Banyugan Beach?
Be sure to pack sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a towel, swimwear, a great book, and some cash. If you’re interested in snorkeling, bring your gear or ask about rentals.
Is there shade available on the beach?
Yes, there are trees lining the beach that provide some natural shade. If you have a Shangri-La day pass, you can also utilize beach umbrellas.
Are there any water sports available at Banyugan Beach?
While Banyugan Beach is mostly about relaxing, you can often arrange for activities like stand-up paddleboarding through nearby vendors, but they aren’t typically available directly from the beach. It’s best to ask Shangri-La or vendors located near Diniwid Beach.
Is Banyugan Beach suitable for children?
Yes, the gentle and shallow waters make it a fantastic destination for families with kids. Just remember to supervise them at all times.
If you’re seeking a peaceful getaway, make Banyugan Beach your next travel destination. The unique atmosphere, crystal-clear waters, and soft sands make it a wonderful escape from the ordinary. Start planning your visit today, and see the different side of Boracay that awaits!
