Tired of the usual beach activities? Unlock unique ideas for your 2026 core memories

Editor’s note: This content is sponsored by San Mig Light and was handled by BrandRap, the sales and marketing arm of Rappler. No member of the news and editorial team participated in the publishing of this piece. 

Here it is: The picturesque view you brought your 2000s digicams for. Your once-a-year office cubicle escape, or probably you and your barkada’s chance at revenge travelling because a beach trip is always worth it. 

Ready to have fun beyond the usual cold dip, sandcastle-building, or sunbathing? Just in time for the new year, you can spice things up by revamping your go-to activity rotation. After all, seeking new experiences is the second top reason why Filipinos travel (43%).

Wondering how to boost your beach bucket list? Here’s a list of must-tries that can offer fresh experiences, whether you’re spending time alone or with a group. Don’t worry, you can unlock these moments in our own pristine Philippine waters – and the winding down part is as easy as grabbing an easy-to-drink can of San Mig Light.

Fly your non-childhood kite

GOOD WAVES. Kitesurfing is a physical exercise and nature appreciation activity in one

If “kitesurfing” isn’t in this year’s bingo card yet, here’s a sign to add it to yours. Think of a colorful kite, but upgraded into a large power kite, designed to help pull you across the water, together with a sturdy surfboard. Not only can kitesurfing give you an equally exhilarating and relaxing beach experience, but it can also strengthen your physical body. Craving a cool down? Pick up a bottle of San Mig Light to get that smooth and refreshing feeling. Just make sure to drink after, and not while kitesurfing!

Where to enjoy: Think you’ve maxed out your Boracay experience? Try visiting Bulabog Beach in Boracay Island, known for its consistent winds. You can even attend a kitesurfing school! 

Go firefly watching

FINDING FIREFLIES. Have an enchanting experience in hidden beach spots 

You would not believe your eyes… especially if you’re used to the hustle and bustle of the city. Somewhere on the beach, there might be an undisrupted place for you to relive your childlike wonder with your favorite people, a.k.a. a firefly watching session. Apart from being a serene stress relief, it’s a reminder of how humans and nature can peacefully coexist. Upon leaving the place, you can continue the fun with a reflective conversation with your beach buddies, accompanied by bottles of San Mig Light to keep the atmosphere light. 

Where to enjoy: Siargao may be known as our country’s Surfing Capital, but there’s more left to unlock. Case in point is a firefly and bioluminescent plankton watching experience at Secret Beach (intrigued yet?).

Give sound therapy a try

MEDITATIVE VIBRATIONS. Relaxing beach discoveries include sound therapy sessions

Thinking of doubling down on your relaxation agenda? Ask your favorite beach if they offer sound healing sessions, usually in nearby spas. Using instruments like singing bowls and tuning forks, facilitators help lead attendees into a meditative state. Although its effect can differ per person, it might be worth it to try for beachgoers craving a quiet screen-free escape or even a new way to appreciate music. You can also pair it with a yoga session! 

Where to enjoy: Beaches in El Nido, Palawan are one of the top-of-mind go-tos for this unique experience. 

Spot your favorite constellations

STARGAZING SESSION. Beachgoers can also enjoy a vast view of the stars 

Zoning out in random places is out, stargazing at the beach is in! All you need is a location with minimal light pollution, a wide and dark area, good weather, devices like a telescope (which are usually brought by a trusted guide), and perhaps a bottle of San Mig Light as your chill companion while stargazing. Imagine delighting in crystal waters in the morning, then admiring the sky at night? Who knows, you might even spot constellations like Orion’s Belt (a.k.a. Tres Marias) if the universe works in your favor? 

Where to enjoy: Carabao Island in Romblon, which consists of many beaches, also offers an observatory and think tank in Lanas Beach Strip.

Indulge in the rare sunset view

SUNSET SILHOUETTES. Achieve a fulfilling pause with a breathtaking view

Sick of your laptop screen that even the 20-20-20 rule no longer helps? Here’s a sign to pack your bags and revel in a beautiful beach sunset. There’s nothing like wrapping up the day with a picturesque view. It gets you particularly pensive, whether you’re alone, with your trusty crew, or maybe even with fellow tourists turned newfound friends, with a refreshing bottle of San Mig Light to boot. Not to mention, it prompts a mini photoshoot session! 

Where to enjoy: Ask a couple of your beachgoer friends about a nice sunrise spot, and you might catch one (or two) mention Laiya Beach in Batangas. Moreover, Boracay regulars may clue you in on the “secret” spots for a gorgeous sunset view, like the Mother Mary Cave and Mount Luho, the highest point in Boracay. 

Bring your bonfire fantasy to reality

BONFIRE BREAK. Share snacks and stories while getting warm after a busy beach day

Imagine having an action-packed day and slowing down in front of a bonfire. You probably won’t even notice how much time has passed since. Thanks to this activity, seemingly mundane things like reading a book, munching on s’mores, or having a deep conversation with friends get romanticized (unless, well, you opt for the ghost story sharing route). 

Where to enjoy: Apart from frisbee and kayaking, people are also allowed to revel in a bonfire’s magic at The Crystal Beach Resort in Zambales. In general, regulations vary per beach because of safety and environmental concerns, so it’s always best to ask! 

Pair beach moments with your favorite beer

At this point, can your beach experience get any better? It actually can. Turn these moments into full-fledged core memories with bottles and cans of San Mig Light to wrap up the night. 

Enjoy it at a cozy beachfront bar, like the way you do when you’re in a sleepover, a musical festival, or a grand adventure and celebration 

elsewhere with the best people you know – because whatever your mood is, you can enjoy the beer anytime and anywhere! 

BEACH COMPANION. A light and easy drink, San Mig Light can instantly boost your vacation mood

As a light, no-fuss drink that fits that easygoing lifestyle, San Mig Light is perfect for your beach escape, letting you get buzzed with a good drink and new worthwhile experiences. Just don’t forget to drink responsibly and clean as you go. Make sure to check the rules and regulations of each beach you visit, and don’t carelessly bring glass bottles to the beach. 

The sight and sound of clinking bottles and popping new cans open, while the waves crash and people gush about the sun? Now that’s a new beach fantasy. – Rappler.com

For ages 18 & up only.

DRINK RESPONSIBLY. 

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