15 stunning PH sunsets

Living in a fast-paced city can be so overwhelming that catching a daily phenomenon, like a sunset, becomes a luxury.

I get to appreciate a beautiful sunset mostly when I travel to the countryside and get to see it in full view, unobstructed by tall buildings and houses. 

The beautiful scenery allows me to be still, to slow down, and reflect at all the craziness of the passing day.

Here are some of my favorite sunset photos from several destinations around the Philippines.

Boracay Island, Aklan

If there’s one thing that you shouldn’t miss in Boracay, it’s the sunset. Every afternoon, tourists crowd along the White Beach– some with tripods ready to capture the spectacle over the horizon while some simply choose to see it without a camera.

Another way to enjoy the sunset in Boracay is by experiencing the traditional way of sailing aboard a boat locally known as paraw.

Balanacan Port, Mogpog, Marinduque

A few minutes before the ferry sailed off from Balanacan, I stepped out of the cabin to catch some fresh air. What I saw outside left me in awe: a fiery sunset where the sky was filled with a dramatic burst of colors, orange, red, pink. It was so beautiful that I had to sit in the same spot until darkness finally took over. 

Manila Bay 

One of the most popular spots to observe sunset in the city is at Manila Bay. Late afternoons here are often filled with people –tourists, vendors, photographers, and regular employees taking a respite after a day’s work.  Although the view from there is indeed fascinating, watch out for some drawbacks, like the unpleasant smell emanating from parts of the area.

Tanay, Rizal

Tanay is one of my favorite spots near Manila. Home to the vibrant Daranak and Batlag Falls, a beautiful church and nestled in between Laguna de Bay and Sierra Madre mountain ranges, this town is a rising tourist destination.

Besides its many scenic spots, one thing that caught me when I visited there was the sunset by the lake.  The silhouette of the spiral staircase of the lighthouse, the boatman making his late afternoon rounds, children playing near the dike, and the flash of colors from the sky created a picturuesque view. The whole scene was picture-perfect and I could not resist capturing the moment with my camera.

Siquijor

The town of San Juan in the mystical island of Siquijor is dotted with beaches with dramatic rock formations and white sandy shores. Its unique coastline and the promise of an enchanting sunset view are the reasons why many tourists prefer to go there after a day of exploring the island.

Bangui, Ilocos Norte

Ilocos Norte has several spots with a commanding sunset view. But one of the most stunning I’ve seen was at Bangui Bay where the towering windmills provided a beautiful view against the retiring sun. This place is a photographer’s dreamland.

Batangas

While on board a ferry bound for Romblon, this incredible sunset came right into my view as we passed by Batangas. The rays peeking through the thick dark clouds, extending down to the mountain, the beautiful sea… that created an image that will linger in my mind for a long time.

San Juan, La Union

There is no better way to end hours of surfing in San Juan than to be treated with a glorious afternoon sunset.  It’s like nature’s reminder to slow down from the rush and take time to sit still and enjoy the beach.

Coron, Palawan

When the sky turned from light to rich dark blue, I knew that the sunset had already kicked off while we were relaxing back at Maquinit Hot Spring. The blue skies reflecting on the water was such a soothing treat after a full day of island-hopping around Coron.

Panglao Island, Bohol

If it was a blue sunset in Coron, I’ll remember most the pink sunset at Panglao Island. About an hour away from Tagbilaran City, Panglao Island is famous for its pretty beaches, without the noise from the usual parties and crowded bars. 

Mt. Manabu, Sto Tomas, Batangas

The view of a sunset atop a mountain offers a experience from viewing one at the plains or near the beach. The climb to reach the summit was challenging, but the breathtaking sight took all the pain away.

Anawangin Cove, San Antonio, Zambales

There’s no better way to cool down after a long road trip and a rough boat ride than lazing on the beach surrounded by your favorite people, while seeing a vibrant display of colors in the sky flashing against the dimming light. The sunset at Anawangin Cove in Zambales was remarkable.

Apo Reef, Sablayan, Mindoro Occidental

Besides diving and snorkeling, there are other activities that could be enjoyed at Apo Reef. Take a trail walk along the mangrove forest that leads to the lagoon, then navigate through the waters aboard a raft then take a few more steps to the lighthouse. I suggest you wait for the sunset at the lighthouse and see below it the vastness of the blue waters in contrast to the verdant mangroves.

Dapitan City

Bay is one of my favorite spots in Dapitan City. Strategically located along this long stretch of beach are some restaurants and hotels. It’s a great place to reflect, commune with nature or meet locals who are also strolling along the beach.

Zamboanga City

When in Zamboanga City, I definitely recommend going to Paseo del Mar not just for the sunset view but also for the food and vibe. Locals and tourists get to dig in and experience some local flavors, like the famous knickerbocker, from the food stalls and restaurants there.

Do you have any favorite spots to view the sunsets in the Philippines? – Rappler.com

Che Gurrobat is the blogger behind backpackingpilipinas.com. She founded the literacy project, BookSail, and spent the last 5 years traveling 80 (of the 81) provinces of the Philippines

Visit #PHTravel for the latest stories on Philippine travel destinations!