One is never too young or too old to cultivate a healthy respect and love for the environment, according to the planners of Lio Beach, a pristine four-kilometer stretch of ivory sand in an Ayala Land community in El Nido, Palawan.
In this haven for nature and culture encounters highlighted by limestone cliffs, sea turtles continue to lay their eggs free from the dangers of pollution and crowded habitations. Families seeking to foster among their children awe and respect for their surroundings have likewise made it a vacation destination.
Top model and Happy Skin entrepreneur Rissa Mananquil-Trillo and her family, the celebrity family of Douglas and Chesca Kramer among other well-loved couples and their children visited Lio Beach mainly because they could freely enjoy the sand and sun there.
Model Vanessa Matsunaga and husband Jun Sunga allowed their kids Isabella and David to run barefoot and frolic on the beach, jump into the azure waters and run back out. When they were hungry, they tried a range of restaurants at Shops at Lio – offering from burgers to pizza to Filipino favorites as well as vegan dishes. “We loved that you don’t ever (feel you) have to leave Lio Beach,” they said.
At the same time, Lio Beach activities like an obstacle course that simulates the struggles of marine life with ocean trash instill a desire among guests to care for the environment. Kayaking at the lagoon highlighted by the screeches of the Palawan hornbill and other wildlife sounds also fosters an appreciation for the surrounding flora and fauna. During special times of the year, families likewise have the chance to actually witness sea turtles hatch and find their way to the ocean for the first time.
For older children and adults, equipment for volleyball, soccer, football and frisbee encourage them to enjoy these sports in the au naturelle sand playing field. Shops at nearby Kalye Artisano likewise expose them to the arts and crafts of Palawan.
Mainly because families have the option to indulge in a wide range of activities or simply just enjoy the sun and sand, guests prefer to stay at Lio Beach’s range of accommodations. These include the 50-room boutique resort Huni Lio to the cozier bed-and-breakfasts Casa Kalaw, Balai Adlao and Hotel Covo—each one designed to appeal to specific groups. A ten-minute drive away is El Nido Cove where a stunning beachfront can be enjoyed almost exclusively by guests.
“Everybody takes care of their surroundings here,” remarked tween Clair Kendra Kramer.
Better yet, Lio Beach has been carefully masterplanned to remain a natural playground for the family. No structures will ever be constructed right on the beach to allow the winds to shift the sands naturally throughout the year. No beachfront structures will be taller than the coconut trees to keep the focus on nature and the richness of the marine life all around.