This June, my family and I decided to take a much-needed beach vacation, and we chose Party Beach Resort in Santa Ana, Cagayan, Philippines. With its stunning beaches, blue skies, and incredible natural scenery, this trip became one of the most unforgettable experiences of our lives.

Day 1: Arrival & Falling in Love with the Beach

As soon as we arrived at the resort, we were blown away by the view—powdery white sand, crystal-clear waters, and coconut trees swaying gently in the breeze. After checking in, we wasted no time changing into our swimsuits and heading straight to the beach. The kids had a blast collecting seashells and playing in the sand, while my partner and I found a shaded spot to relax and soak in the sounds of the ocean.

Days 2-3: Exploring Palaui Island & Snorkeling Adventures

The next morning, we took a boat to Palaui Island, ranked by CNN as one of the world’s top ten most beautiful beaches. Walking through its forest trails felt like stepping into a lost paradise, and the water was so clear and inviting that we couldn't wait to jump in.

We joined a snorkeling tour and were amazed by the vibrant coral reefs and colorful tropical fish. Even our kids, who were first-time snorkelers, were mesmerized by the underwater world.

One of the highlights of Palaui was Cape Engaño Lighthouse. Standing at the top of the lighthouse, we could see the entire island with breathtaking panoramic views. The wind was strong, but feeling it against my face filled me with an incredible sense of freedom.

Days 4-5: Relaxing in the Hidden Gem of Anguib Beach

Halfway through our trip, we decided to slow things down and spend time at Anguib Beach. Often called the "Boracay of the North," this beach had soft, white sand and barely any crowds—a true hidden paradise.

We rented a kayak and paddled through the calm, shallow waters, then tried catching crabs using a technique taught by the locals. That evening, we set up a small bonfire on the beach and enjoyed a seafood feast under the stars. It was such a simple moment, yet it felt like pure happiness.

Day 6: Mangrove Forest Exploration

On our last full day, we joined a mangrove forest tour. A local guide took us on a small boat through the dense mangroves, where we saw birds, mudskippers, and even a few wild monkeys. The peaceful atmosphere and untouched beauty of the forest made it feel like we were in another world.

Day 7: A Slow Morning & A Bittersweet Goodbye

On our final day, we let ourselves sleep in and enjoyed a slow, relaxed breakfast by the beach. As the sun rose, the ocean glowed in shades of gold, and I sat there watching my kids run along the shore one last time. My heart was full.

As we packed our bags and prepared to leave, I turned back to take one last look at the stunning beach and thought, "We will definitely come back."