Beach Vacations

The 10 Best Bars in Boracay

Are you getting the impression that sunbathing and swimming is all that Boracay has to offer? The truth is that the island has a livelier bar scene than you might have thought.

There’s only so much that you can do in terms of water activities or thrilling adventures. Would you believe Boracay island sets the stage for an amazing pub crawl scene, too?

If you want to relax, have fun, do shots, or dance, White Beach has some of the best bars on the island. Overall, Boracay plays host to modern, unique, and old-timey venues.

One thing’s for sure – there’s not a dull moment from the time you’re up and about. And if you’re up to experiencing the nightlife in Boracay, make these bars part of your destination.

#1. Manic Monkey Crew

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One of the best bars in Boracay opens on a bi-weekly basis and is not on the island per se. In reality, this is a yacht party that you simply can’t miss.

Think jungle BBQs, snorkeling in secluded bays, and sunset cruises. Cocktails, food, and popular DJs are also part of the deal.

If you want to see more of the island, party hard, and spend more time on the water, you can’t miss the cruise. Just make sure you book your seats in advance.

#2. Paraw Beach Club

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A hot attraction for night owls, Paraw Beach Club can accommodate some 1,000 people. It’s in the crowded White Beach Station 1 and caters to both tourists and locals daily.

The club stays open until 3 am, so that should give you plenty of time to party until you drop. Both local and international DJs grace the stage and create beats you can dance to.

If you want to grab a bite or sample a variety of cocktails, the bar can easily accommodate you.

#3. Epic Boracay

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Do you want to experience more of the Boracay nightlife? Epic is arguably among the most popular spots on the island.

It’s on the luxury and premium end of Boracay clubs and it caters to customers day and night. You can hit the club in the morning or at lunchtime. And you can visit later in the evening for a romantic dinner.

But arrive at Epic after midnight and you’ll find one of the liveliest clubs on the island. Unlike Paraw, the gem of Station 1, Epic is in Station 2, White Beach.

#4. Aplaya Beach Bar

Aplaya Beach Bar is towards the end of Station 1 in White Beach. It features Mediterranean cuisine, a live DJ, and often hosts fire shows.

The open-air restaurant has a relaxing atmosphere and a great bar. The extensive menu appeals to both locals and visitors from 9 am to 1 am.

What’s cool about the place is that you can enjoy a hookah session, too, while sipping your favorite cocktail.

#5. Cocomangas

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Do you want to cross off drinking unique shots on your Boracay activities list?

If so, take a trip to Cocomangas. The bar has been around since 1987 and is one of the most infamous on the island.

Exclusive and mysterious shots set Cocomangas apart from other bars in Boracay. The local B-52 or the Screaming Orgasm can put a smile on your face in many ways. If you’re game enough, you can try your luck with the 15 shots and still standing challenge.

There’s no other place that puts as much emphasis on crazy combinations and hard partying.

#6. Prisma

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If you’re up for some bar hopping, Boracay’s Prisma is a can’t-miss location. As one of the most unique establishments on the island, it’s no surprise that Prisma offers a pool bar.

You’ll find it at the Hue Hotel, one of the more modern venues in Boracay. Despite all the hustle and bustle on White Beach, Prisma is a rather quiet place. It offers a relaxing experience, with the largest rum collection on the island.

#7. Boracay Sports Bar

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Who doesn’t like a good sports bar?

The Boracay Sports Bar is an excellent spot for vacationing sports fans. It’s open seven days a week and puts a variety of live events up on the big screen.

You can catch all the important action in football, boxing, racing, and even ice hockey, among other sports.

What’s great is that the bar also caters to bargain hunters. It serves some of the cheapest beer on the island and good food, too.

Although the operating hours can vary greatly, the bar always stays open longer on important game days.

#8. Area 51

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Ever wanted to visit Area 51? Boracay has its own out of this world party facility called Area 51 Secret Party Facility.

The locals know it as an underground party hosted on Bulabog Beach. It’s a no-frills venue with minimal entrance fees.

What sets it apart? It opens late at 11 pm and always when there’s a full moon. You can also catch a massive New Year’s party at Area 51 and enjoy a variety of local drinks.

#9. Exit Bar

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Exit is, hands-down, among the best bars in Boracay. The venue draws massive throngs of visitors that enjoy a variety of music.

You’re as likely to hear modern house hits there as 60s rockabilly and 90s pop songs. And the large dance floor allows you to freely showcase your moves without worries.

The place is usually very packed. Even so, you can still have a relaxing evening at the Exit Bar if you stay closer to the bar area.

#10. Sandbar Beach Club

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Although Boracay nightlife is quite famous, you can also find a lively daytime bar scene on the island.

The Sandbar Beach Club is one of the hottest spots during the day. It’s a Station 1 destination famous for its fire dance performances.

Here you can sip local favorites, like the Mangojito and Bamboojito, while sitting on bean bag chairs. Local beers and cocktails are also on the menu. And you also have happy hours every day after 7:30 pm.

Embrace the Bar Hopping Boracay Is Famous For

Take your time and relax on the world-famous pristine island beach. But don’t end your stay in the Philippines without experiencing the bar scene, either.

You can party in Boracay from day to night to day again.

The island’s bars offer live music, amazing DJ set lists, unique shots, and more. But the open-air venues are where most of the fun happens.

Related Topics:fire show dance cocktails DJ drinks bars party cruise restaurants food activities

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Oceanside’s Surfing Scene: A Beginner’s Guide

If you’ve ever dreamed of catching your first wave, Oceanside, California, is the perfect place to start. With its laid-back vibe, warm sandy beaches, and surf culture woven into everyday life, this coastal city welcomes beginners looking to dip their toes (and boards) into the sport of surfing. Whether you’re brand new to the ocean or just brushing up on your skills, Oceanside has everything you need to get started.

Why Oceanside Is Great for Beginners

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Unlike some California surf spots known for heavy crowds or challenging waves, Oceanside offers a mix of mellow breaks and consistent swells ideal for learning. The city’s wide sandy beaches give beginners plenty of space, while the surf community here is friendly and supportive. Add in sunny weather almost year-round, and you’ve got the perfect environment for a surf session.

Read More: Hidden Gems in Orlando

Best Beginner Surf Spots in Oceanside

Oceanside Pier

The iconic Oceanside Pier is one of the most popular surf spots in town. On the south side of the pier, you’ll find consistent, softer waves that are great for practicing your pop-up and balance. Just be mindful of more experienced surfers who also frequent this area.

Harbor Beach

Known for its long sandy stretch and beginner-friendly waves, Harbor Beach is ideal if you want a little extra room to practice. Families also love this spot since there are lifeguards on duty and plenty of amenities nearby.

North Jetty

For those ready to take the next step, the North Jetty offers slightly bigger waves without being overwhelming. It’s a good middle ground for surfers moving from absolute beginner to intermediate.

Surf Lessons & Rentals

Not ready to dive in on your own? Oceanside has plenty of surf schools and rental shops to get you started. Professional instructors can teach you the basics of ocean safety, paddling, and standing up on your board—all while cheering you on. Most shops offer affordable rentals for boards and wetsuits, so you don’t have to invest in gear right away.

Some local favorites include:

Oceanside Surf School – Private and group lessons for all ages.
Surf Ride Oceanside – A well-known surf shop with rentals and gear.
Whitlock Surf Experience – Personalized lessons with an emphasis on fun and safety.

Tips for Beginner Surfers in Oceanside

Start early: Mornings often bring smaller, cleaner waves that are easier to ride.
Check conditions: Websites like Surfline provide real-time reports on wave size, tides, and winds.
Wear a wetsuit: Even in sunny California, the Pacific can be chilly year-round.
Respect surf etiquette: Don’t drop in on someone else’s wave and always be aware of your surroundings.
Be patient: Surfing takes practice, but each session gets you closer to that first unforgettable ride.

After the Waves

Part of the fun of surfing in Oceanside is enjoying the post-surf hangout. Stroll along the pier, grab tacos from a local food truck, or chill at a beachfront café. Oceanside’s surf culture extends beyond the water, with surf shops, art galleries, and a community that embraces the beach lifestyle.

Ready to Catch Your First Wave?

Oceanside’s beginner-friendly surf scene makes it one of the best places in Southern California to learn. With supportive instructors, great beginner breaks, and plenty of surf stoke in the air, your surfing journey can start right here.

So grab a board, slather on some sunscreen, and paddle out—your first wave is waiting!

California

Why San Diego Might Be California’s Coolest City—And No One’s Talking About It

When people think of California’s most iconic cities, Los Angeles and San Francisco usually steal the spotlight. But those in the know will tell you that San Diego quietly delivers everything you want from the Golden State—and maybe even more.

This beachside gem is effortlessly cool, endlessly sunny, and filled with experiences that blend laid-back living with cultural depth. Here’s why San Diego might just be California’s coolest city—and why no one’s talking about it (yet).

1. A Beach Scene That’s Actually Relaxing

Forget the see-and-be-seen crowds of Malibu or Venice. In San Diego, the beaches are wide open, the surf is steady, and the vibes are impossibly chill. La Jolla Shores is perfect for kayaking and snorkeling, while Sunset Cliffs offers dramatic views without tourist overload.

Local Tip: Head to Torrey Pines State Beach for fewer crowds and one of the most beautiful coastal hikes in California. If you’re traveling with kids, check out Coronado Beach—its calm waves and golden sand make it ideal for families.

2. A Food Scene That’s Quietly World-Class

From fish tacos to Michelin-worthy plates, San Diego’s food culture is on the rise. Whether you’re eating fresh sea urchin at a seaside shack or indulging in fine dining in Little Italy, every bite feels intentional and locally inspired.

Must Try: Taco Stand (La Jolla) for classic Baja-style tacos – Herb & Wood (Little Italy) for upscale California cuisine – Convoy District for some of the best Asian food in the state -Liberty Public Market for an eclectic, local foodie experience under one roof.

3. Sunshine Without the Smog

With an average of 266 sunny days a year, San Diego has the perfect climate—warm, breezy, and rarely extreme. It’s a city built for flip-flops, bike rides, and endless patio dining. And unlike other California hubs, the air feels fresh and the pace is just… easier.

Pro Tip: Rent an e-bike and cruise the Mission Bay bike path for 12 miles of coastal views, beach cafés, and perfect photo spots.

4. Culture That’s Not in Your Face

San Diego’s creative scene is unpretentious and full of local character. You’ll find outdoor art installations, indie surf shops, and pop-up galleries alongside historic landmarks like Old Town and the Gaslamp Quarter.

Don’t Miss: The eclectic art museums and gardens at Balboa Park – A live show at The Old Globe Theater—San Diego’s answer to Broadway – The Chicano Park murals in Barrio Logan, a colorful tribute to the city’s cultural roots

5. A Laid-Back, Local Energy

What really makes San Diego stand out is the people. Friendly, fit, and effortlessly cool, the locals are as easygoing as the sea breeze. It’s a place where you’ll feel welcomed, not crowded—where the city unfolds slowly, inviting you to stay awhile.

Neighborhoods to Explore: North Park for vintage shops, craft beer, and murals – South Park for indie boutiques and brunch spots – Ocean Beach for classic SoCal vibes and a weekly farmers market Final Word San Diego might not shout the loudest, but it wins hearts quietly—with surf, sunshine, street tacos, and soul. It’s a city that doesn’t need hype to be great. And that’s exactly why it’s so cool.

So if you’re craving California without the chaos—San Diego’s waiting. Just don’t tell everyone.

Travel Tip: Book a visit in late spring or early fall for warm weather, smaller crowds, and seasonal festivals like CRSSD or San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival.

California

Why Oceanside Is The Coolest Beach Town In California You’ve Never Heard Of

Oceanside: The Coolest Beach Town in California You’ve Never Heard Of (But Should!)

Forget the crowded boardwalks and sky-high prices of California’s more famous beach towns. There’s a true gem sparkling on the Southern California coast, quietly cultivating a vibrant, authentic, and undeniably cool vibe: Oceanside. If it’s not on your radar yet, prepare to be wonderfully surprised.

For years, Oceanside might have been considered merely a pit stop on the way to San Diego. But those days are long gone. This dynamic city has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving into a destination that perfectly blends classic California surf culture with a burgeoning arts scene, an exciting culinary landscape, and a commitment to sustainable living.

So, what makes Oceanside the coolest beach town you’ve been missing out on? Let’s dive in!

More Than Just Miles of Sand (Though We Have Plenty!)

Yes, Oceanside boasts 3.5 miles of pristine, wide sandy beaches – perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or catching a wave. But it’s the iconic Oceanside Pier that truly sets the scene. Stretching nearly 2,000 feet into the Pacific, it’s one of the longest wooden piers on the West Coast, offering breathtaking views, fantastic fishing (no license required!), and a quintessential California stroll. You’ll see surfers carving lines below and may even spot dolphins or seals playing in the waves.

Just north of the pier, the Oceanside Harbor is a charming hub for all things maritime. Think colorful boats, fresh seafood restaurants, and opportunities for whale watching, kayaking, or paddleboarding. It’s a picturesque spot to soak in the coastal ambiance.

A Surfer’s Paradise with a Rich History

Oceanside’s roots are deeply entwined with surf culture, and it’s celebrated at the fantastic California Surf Museum. Here, you can immerse yourself in the sport’s history, marvel at vintage boards (including an 11-foot redwood from the 1800s!), and learn about legendary surfers. Even Bethany Hamilton’s shark-bitten board is on display, a testament to the resilience and spirit of the surf community.

Beyond surfing, Oceanside embraces its past with historic landmarks like the Mission San Luis Rey and the beautifully restored “Top Gun” House (now serving up nostalgic pies!). You’ll find a blend of old and new, creating a unique character you won’t find just anywhere.

A Culinary Scene That Will Surprise and Delight

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Prepare your taste buds, because Oceanside’s food scene is booming! What was once a sleepy surf town is now a culinary hotspot, with new and exciting restaurants popping up regularly. From European bistros to East Coast-inspired delis, and a plethora of craft breweries and wine-tasting rooms, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Don’t miss out on exploring Artist Alley, a vibrant space that hosts a First Friday Art Walk with pop-up galleries and artisan goods, often with delicious food trucks on hand.

Beyond the Beach: Unique Adventures Await

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Oceanside offers a surprising array of activities that go beyond the typical beach day:

Skydiving with Ocean Views: For the ultimate thrill, try indoor skydiving at iFLY or, for the truly adventurous, jump out of a plane with GoJump Oceanside for unparalleled views of the coastline.
Goat Hill Park: This isn’t your average golf course. It’s a refreshingly inclusive and unique spot with ocean views, a relaxed atmosphere (no dress code, rock music!), and even a commitment to local beekeeping!
Whale Watching: Year-round excursions from the Harbor offer incredible opportunities to spot majestic whales and playful dolphins.
Biking the Strand: A pedestrian-friendly path runs parallel to the ocean, perfect for biking, running, or a leisurely stroll.
Sunset Market: On Thursday evenings, Pier View Way transforms into a lively outdoor market with food, music, and local crafts – an experience not to be missed.

Why Oceanside is Your Next California Escape

Oceanside isn’t just a pretty face; it’s a community with a strong sense of identity, a laid-back charm, and a dedication to growth that benefits both visitors and locals. It’s less crowded than its Southern California neighbors, offering a more authentic and relaxed beach town experience. And with visitor spending consistently growing (reaching $568 million in 2022!), it’s clear that more and more people are discovering its magic.

So, if you’re looking for a California beach getaway that’s off the beaten path, rich in culture, brimming with delicious food, and offers endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation, then Oceanside is calling your name. It’s the coolest beach town in California you’ve never heard of, and it’s time to change that.