Boracay has been getting its fair share of attention. In 2016, the paradise island attracted record-shattering 1.7 million tourists. Seven years has gone by, and a lot has happened since. Dozens of new flights have made the island increasingly accessible. More and more travel authorities, both local and international, have been hailing Boracay as one of the best beaches in the world. Unsurprisingly, the island has grown all the more popular and travelers are coming in droves.

These changes, while generally positive, come with disadvantages that sometimes put people off. For one, Boracay can get a little too touristy sometimes and the party vibe a little too much. Thankfully, there are still many ways you can experience the island in a more relaxing and authentic way. And there are still places like Alta Vista de Boracay, which you can escape to if you would like some peace and quiet. Explore the relaxing ways you can enjoy the island through this Boracay guide that focuses on the more toned down activities.

Go sunset watching

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Ask anyone who has been to Boracay, and they will all gush over the island’s extraordinary and breathtaking sunsets. It’s a view that leaves a mark in people’s hearts and minds, and it is definitely something you must experience. The best time to go sunset watching is from 5 PM to 6 PM. You can pick any of the tourist spots in Boracay, although most people would recommend the White Beach. The silhouette of the passing paraws or boats against the horizon makes for a stunning view. And don’t forget to watch out for the sunrise too! It is just as beautiful and offers a wonderful way to start your day. Remember to enjoy the spectacular views and to take every moment in.

Sail into the sunset

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There are several reasons why you should make time to admire the sunset, and there are many ways to do it. One of the best ways to admire the sunset in Boracay is aboard a local sailboat or paraw. These boats set off in droves from the shores of White Beach at about the same time the sun begins its glorious descent. There is something very romantic about the gentle sway of the boat as you are pulled ever closer to the sunset. You get to sit back and relax as you experience one of nature’s most beautiful phenomena.

Walk on the beach

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Take a stroll along the white beaches and Boracay tourist spots. It’s one of the most relaxing things you can do in Boracay. There is much to see, from people building sand castles and sand art to people parasailing and tattooists engrossed in their henna ink art. You will love how the beach comes to life at night and will never run out of things to do in bars and restaurants.

Watch the kite surfers

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Take a walk along Bulabog Beach and marvel at the kite surfers’ awesome stunts on water. To make the most out of the experience, you may trek to Mount Luho and enjoy the view from the summit. The amazing island view with colourful paraws and kites make for an spectacular sight to behold. You will also love the rustic and laid-back cafes and restaurants on this side of the island. You get to relax in Boracay like a local.

Experience gastronomic heaven

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Indulge the foodie in you with the gastronomic haven that is Boracay. Enjoy sumptuous seafoods that are abundant on the paradise island. You can go to Filipino restaurants and try the local dishes. You get to surprise yourself be sampling foreign cuisines and familiar dishes. Don’t forget to stuff yourself with the fresh local fruits, especially mangoes. They are unlike anything you’ll find elsewhere in the world. They are bound to surpass whatever standards you have. And of course, there’s the fresh coconut to complete the island experience.

Give yourself a fun makeover

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Get playful and have yourself a badass set of cornrows. It’s great to sport the hairdo while sipping your mojito. You will find several vendors on the beach offering a variety of creative hairstyles (a heart-shaped braid pattern, perhaps?) You will be surprised by how fast the ladies work on your hair. Don’t forget to get yourself henna inked, but without the scary commitment a permanent one requires.

Get a relaxing massage

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One of the best treats you can give yourself while in Boracay is a nice relaxing massage, especially if you have had a tiring day filled with fun activities. You will find hundreds of massage spas that offer great services along the beach The friendly therapists do a great job at easing the knots and aches, and releasing unwanted tension in your body. You can pamper yourself with a foot srcub, a hot stone treatment, a flower-infused hot bath, and a full body massage. You are bound to sleep peacefully and restfully throughout the night.

Live out your mermaid fantasy

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Experience swimming in the sea like a mermaid by renting one of those mermaid tails or when you visit the Philippine Mermaid Swimming Academy. You can even go scuba diving or snorkeling There is something inherently rejuvenating about swimming. Adding the magical element of living out a fantasy just takes the experience to a whole new level.

Boracay is still one of the best places where you can escape from the daily grind. When life gets too intense, just go to Boracay and give your body the rejuvenation it needs.

The Asian Traveler's Handbook for a Truly Relaxing Boracay Escape