Here’s some advice. Rizal Boulevard should be on top of your must-visit list when you come to Dumaguete. This is one of the most iconic and popular landmarks in the city, aptly nicknamed the “Show Window of Dumaguete.”
The tree-lined boulevard was constructed in 1916, and stretches 780 meters long. Its white lamp posts are some of the first sights you see when arriving at the city via boat. It is named after the Philippine National Hero, Jose Rizal, who was said to have enjoyed passing the time on the beach here many years before the boulevard was even built.
Rizal Boulevard is only 15 minutes away from the airport via tricycle, or rented car or van. It is surrounded by hotels, bars and restaurants, some of which I got to visit during my stay, such as Sans Rival, Blue Monkey Grill, Honeycomb, and Bethel Guest House.
Coming here at varying times of day reveals a different facet of Rizal Boulevard. It is a great place for jogging and walking early in the morning, just as the sun comes out. It’s also a popular choice of venue for photo shoots, pre-nups for instance, throughout the day. In the evening, it transforms into a favorite hangout spot for locals and tourists alike.
There is so much to do here, that you can choose to stay for as little as an hour and as long as an entire day. A lot of these are inexpensive, and even free! Here are five of my favorites.
1. Watch the sun come up over Siquijor at dawn, and the sunset as the day comes to a close.
2. Take photos at the I Love Dumaguete sign, and the monument of the first SPC sisters.
3. Eat! Do not leave without sampling the popular street food of Rizal Boulevard – balut and tempura.
4. Unwind with a drink, listen to live music, and enjoy the relaxed vibe of Dumaguete City.
5. Simply sit, take in the view, and de-stress, surrounded by the ocean breeze.
Rizal Boulevard makes a great starting point for a tour around the city. It’s only one of my eight must-see destinations when in Dumaguete. I invite you to read up on more of my top places to visit here.
Always remember, travel enriches life. It teaches us to enjoy moments, to say goodbye to stress and embrace joy instead. Experience has taught me this, and I’m happy that I get to share my journeys with you now, too. Anytime you need help and tips finding worry-free, budget-friendly places to see, I’m here to help!