Buruanga
Buruanga is a town swathed in spectacular natural beauty and is the lesser-explored region of Aklan. Buruanga spreads out along the northwesterly coast of the island of Panay. It features a shoreline of pristine white sand, rocky bays and dramatic cliffs in the shadow of the rolling hills of the Northwest Panay Peninsula Natural Park.
With calm, turquoise water, swaying palms and unspoiled sand, the beaches look as if they’ve been taken straight off a postcard. Bathe in the inviting sea and go for long walks at Talisay Beach. Tuburan Baybay has a beachfront resort home to bamboo cottages, a restaurant that serves typical Filipino fare and a watersports center. Catch a boat to an all-inclusive day resort on Hinugtan White Beach.
Perched at the edge of a peninsula, Ariel’s Point (aka Batasan Point) is a hub for adventure activities. Jump into the water from diving boards set in the cliffs at five different heights. Go snorkeling, kayak to secluded coves and try stand-up paddleboarding. Black Rock is rated among the best dive sites in the Western Visayas.
Caves set in the forested hills offer an alternative to the beaches. A dazzling array of stalagmites and stalactites decorate the sculpted limestone walls of Ignito Cave. Admire the panoramic views from Sabang Cave and spot more curious rock formations at Sapsapon Cave. Wander scenic trails at Pagatpat Mangrove and visit caves and waterfalls at Hacienda Maria.
A great time to visit the town is in May for the Panagat Festival. This week-long event celebrates Buruanga’s close relationship with the ocean and fishing. Join in the fun at colorful parades, dance performances, handicraft markets and sporting contests.
The most convenient way to reach Buruanga is to catch a bus to Caticlan, and then take a tricycle taxi from there. You can also fly to Caticlan’s Godofredo P. Ramos Airport, from where it’s about a 45-minute drive. November to April is peak season and the best time to visit, when temperatures are mild and rainfall is minimal.