In a country with over 7,000 islands, who would ever run out of beach tour options?

The Philippines’ geographical features have always been postcard-worthy for anyone who identifies as quote, unquote, a child of the sun, seas, and sand. The country is blessed with 36,289 km of coastline, giving it the fourth longest coastline in the world – just behind Russia. You know what that means! There are thousands of spectacular beaches waiting to be discovered. If you’re looking to spend your vacation in a must-visit paradise of fine sand and crystal blue waters, think Boracay, El Nido, or Siargao. Then again, you can also explore lesser-known beaches that are still worthy of your time; this brings us to Gumasa Beach!

The untouched white sandy beach is dubbed the “Boracay of the South”

Less the vibrant nightlife, that is.

Gumasa Beach is a beach lover’s paradise located in Glan, Sarangani. It is a perfectly good spot to unwind and relax because it provides respite from the usual heavy crowd and vibrancy from popular beach spots. I visited this place a few years back thanks to the recommendation of friends from work, and it was beautiful! Given the chance, I’d like to go back.

We had no problems getting to the beach using public transportation. If you are coming from General Santos, you are an hour’s drive away from this paradise. We just took a van bound for Glan from KCC Mall, and hopped off at Alegado Terminal. From there, we rode the tricycle to our preferred resort. Look up Gumasa Beach resorts, and you can take your pick from simple or posh resorts.

ALSO READ: 6 Things I Love About General Santos

The tip here is to remember to get the contact details of the tricycle driver because transportation going back to where you came from is pretty scarce. You can easily call him or her if you need to be picked up.

It’s not impossible to have the stretch of powdery white sand beach all to yourself 

Compared to other popular beaches, you can expect a chill time at Gumasa Beach because the place welcomes only a few guests. If you come then later find out that you have the whole paradise to yourself, don’t fret! That just means you’ll get your much-deserved peace and quiet!

We also got to fool around freely during our visit, and it was so much fun! Pose away to your heart’s content and make sure you capture that perfect shot.

I swear the beach is too pretty, these pictures don’t do it much justice. It’s definitely a must-visit when in Mindanao!

Make sure to manage your expectations before coming. There are good resorts that will give you what you need, but you won’t find a long row of establishments where you can jump from a coffee shop to an unlimited seafood place and, finally to an upscale buffet.

But hey, it doesn’t matter as long as there’s a stunning beach view waiting, right?