Beach Wonderland - Panglao

Just like in Sri Lanka, our first week in Panglao, Philippines was almost entirely rainy. I was super disappointed, because I was expecting a month of perfect beach weather, and I was definitely not getting it. Never give up hope, though, because the weather can always change - and I'm so happy that it did!

I'm lucky to have gotten to see my share of some really beautiful beaches - the Dominican Republic, San Blas, Puerto Rico - but I can confidently say that the beaches here in Panglao are my absolute favorite.

So now, my top three beaches!

Number 3 is my favorite beach to see the most beautiful sunset in the world: Sibukaw Public Beach. This beach is super tiny and every time I've been there it's been filled with exclusively locals, though never overcrowded. I've not swam in this beach, but this is our go-to when we have time to catch a sunset! It quite literally took my breath away to walk down the cute little stairs and see this masterpiece in front of me. I really think this is the most gorgeous sunset that I've ever seen!

Number 2 is Doljo Beach. At the northwestern most point of the island, this beach has a lot of fancy resorts and even a nice outdoor mall. It's not overcrowded, and the beach itself is beautifully maintained. Also, there's a great free parking lot available, which makes a huge difference! Best part? There are soooo many starfish! Before coming to the Philippines, I'd never seen any. Now I see them all the time! I'm not sure if it's countrywide or just where we are, but I'm so happy! And just look at the color of that water!

Number 1 on my list is what we consider our "home beach." Just 10 minutes away on the scooters gets us to White Beach, sincerely the most beautiful beach I've ever seen! This beach is so crystal clear and picture perfect, especially mid-day when the sun is hitting the water just right. We go here almost every day. The water isn't deep, but it's perfect for just floating around and enjoying the ambiance. Locals come here, especially on the weekend, and you can always hear someone singing karaoke. What is it with Filipinos and karaoke?!?

I don't think I'll ever get tired of this beach.

Andrés has some students from the Philippines who say that Pangalo isn't even known for its beaches, so I can't imagine what "the best" beaches must look like! One day we'll have to go to Palawan, which is where everyone tells us we'll really have our minds blown. For now, I can't believe that I am even able to make a list of my top 3 Filipino beaches. What is this life?!?

Only one more week in the Philippines. Why does time have to fly by so quickly?