OVER a year ago, I featured a secret cove safely hidden behind huge
rocks at Long Beach or locally known as Unai Dankulo on Tinian.
There
is more to it. Beyond the secret cove is another cove well concealed by
rocks and cliffs which, if not for the open skies, it would have been a
cave.
The exact spot is accessible only in two ways—braving the
strong current and the huge sharp rocks at the coral edge, or crawling
in your stomach through a narrow slit in a stone enclosure, a method
people with claustrophobia wouldn’t find fascinating.
Bordering
the beach on your right side is a rocky cliff which seem to spell
‘deadend’ to your exploration but don’t stop there. Right beside the
cliff are shallow parts where kids can swim and frolick. At the bottom
of the cliff, get on your stomach and start crawling inside the small
opening of a tight crevice. This will lead you to a secluded but very
beautiful hidden beach perfect for camping and private parties.
The
spot I am focusing on is just a few meters up above this hidden beach.
Pick you way a little further passing sharp rocks and crevices and you
will come to a rocky enclosure that is perfect for a shrine or a grotto.
Vines
clinging to the roots of trees in the cliff add to the spooky
atmosphere. At this very spot, you feel like you are cut off from the
rest of the world with only the rocks and cliffs and the sound of the
waves rushing into the beach down.
At this spot, you can lost
track of time and concentrate only in your immediate surroundings—a
peaceful and tranquil environment far from the daily cares of work and
routine.
Leftovers from a campfire like half burned pieces of coal
were the only telltale signs that some people had barbeque in the place
previously. A small enclosure under a rocky ledge serves perfect to
spread a mat and enjoy a peaceful day away from anybody and everybody.
Unai
Dankulo is one of Tinian’s favorite destinations with a long stretch of
white sand shores in the North Field. The beach itself is a popular
destination not only for tourists but local residents as well, but going
beyond the ordinary scene will lead you to exciting nooks and crannies
that a lot of people don’t even know existed.
There is more to the
island than its pristine beaches and historical treasures. Just keep
your eyes and ears open, and be adventurous. You will be surprised!
