Boracay Bliss: Sunsets, Sand, and a Whole Lot of Shenanigans with Family and Friends

March 30, 2022 - Boracay Island, Philippines

There are trips you take for the views—and then there are trips like this one, where the people make the memories even brighter than the sun.

Our adventure to Boracay wasn’t just a vacation. It was a whirlwind of belly laughs, last-minute plans, beach games gone wrong (or so right), and the kind of bonding that only happens when you mix sunburns, saltwater, and shared snacks.

This was our story: one epic beach escape with my family and my ride-or-die friends—and honestly, I wouldn’t have had it any other way.

Day 1: Reunited & Already Rowdy

The second we landed, the chaos began—in the best way. Imagine a group chat coming to life: loud greetings, misplaced luggage, snack hoarding, and debates about who gets the best room view.

But once we stepped onto White Beach, the energy shifted. It was all laughter and “woah” moments as the sun lit up the water in shades of aqua blue you can’t quite capture in a photo (though we definitely tried).

We spent the day swimming, beach-combing, and snapping way too many “candid” group shots. The vibe? Laid-back but filled with non-stop laughter. Sunset brought out the cameras again—because yes, Boracay sunsets really are that unreal.

Dinner? Fresh seafood by the water, cold drinks, and storytelling so wild we had people at the next table eavesdropping.

Day 2: Island Hopping & Chaos at Sea

This day was all action. We jumped on a boat and headed straight into the best kind of adventure.

From snorkeling in clear blue waters to cliff diving (some were braver than others), the day was packed. At one point, my cousin screamed mid-snorkel because a fish got too friendly. Meanwhile, my friend nearly lost his GoPro during a failed underwater flip.

We sang karaoke on the boat (badly), ate grilled seafood with our hands, and ended the ride soaked, sunburned, and smiling. It was pure summer magic—with a splash of disaster and a whole lot of fun.

Day 3: Coconut Mornings & Golden Hour Goodbyes

We kept it chill on our last day. Well, mostly.

Morning coconut juice under the palms, lazy floats in the sea, and spontaneous beach volleyball that turned way too competitive (because of course it did). Even the family members who said they just wanted to “rest and relax” were in on the action.

As the sun dipped low for one last golden hour, we lined up barefoot in the sand, arms around each other, watching the sky set itself on fire. No filters, no rush—just a perfect moment with our favorite people.

Why This Trip Mattered

It wasn’t just about the beach (though Boracay really is paradise). It was about reconnecting.

With my family—despite the bickering over sunblock and who stole the last mango shake. With my friends—who somehow feel like siblings by now. And with myself—slowing down, soaking up laughter, and remembering that the best souvenirs are the moments you can’t buy.

Boracay gave us sunsets, waves, and WiFi that barely worked (which turned out to be a gift). But most importantly, it gave us time. Together.

And that’s what I’ll remember most.

Pro Tips for a Family + Friends Boracay Trip:

• Book early. Boracay gets busy—especially for group travel.

• Share the load. Assign someone to snacks, someone to photos, and someone to keep the peace. (Or at least try.)

• Keep it flexible. Some want adrenaline; some want naps. Balance both.

• Capture the chaos. Photos, videos, silly dance battles—record it all.

By: Meme Borja