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The best Philippines islands: a local’s guide to the 10 prettiest islands

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Referred to as the Pearl of the Orient by those who've visited and loved the Philippines , this archipelago in Southeast Asia has so much to offer to those looking to find a slice of tropical escapism. This rich, biodiverse country is made up of 7,641 islands (depending on the tide) – and to our minds, is one of the most alluring destinations on the planet. 

1. Boracay, Aklan

Boracay Island is hailed as having the best beach in the world across countless reader polls – this is the Philippines’ most famous island for a reason. Famous though it may be, the caster-sugar beaches, crystal waters and vivid sunsets make it well worth a stop-off. Unlike some of the smaller, more off-grid isles, Boracay has some sensational places to stay, too – ranging from rustic boltholes to grand spots from the likes of Shangri-La .

While the best-known White Beach may be a tad overcrowded for some, check out the island’s less-hyped beaches for an experience away from the hordes. Bolabog Beach is set on a quieter side of the coast and is well-loved by Boracay’s kitesurfing community. Here, you can watch hundreds of colourful kites light up the sky – all the better while sipping a Pineapple Mint shake at the Banana Bay , Bolabog’s best-kept boutique hotel .

2. Siargao, Surigao del Norte

The once sleepy surf town of Siargao has grown in popularity over recent years and, in 2019, was voted as the best island in the world by Condé Nast Traveller readers. With giant barrel-shaped waves, Siargao is the Philippines’ surf capital – but there’s plenty to occupy those who aren’t taking to the waves, too. This tear-shaped island is dotted with hidden lagoons, magical rock pools, gigantic national parks and protected dive sites.

Naked Island, Guyam Island and Daku Island are three of the immaculate islets you can visit in Siargao. Naked Island is a completely uninhabited sand bar that disappears with the tide, while Guyam Island is a small tropical atoll covered by a handful of palm trees that you can cross in 50 steps. Daku Island, meanwhile, is our favourite for the handful of delicious seafood restaurants run by locals. Siargao also has a reputation as one of the Philippines’ most notorious party islands, with wild, joyful raves a nightly occurrence in many of the local bars .

3. El Nido, Palawan

Comprising 45 islands, El Nido is one of the most biodiverse archipelagos in the Philippines. Characterised by limestone formations and aquamarine lagoons, the landscape is as close as possible to what comes to mind when one conjures up images of the Philippines.

El Nido Resorts , which has three outstanding hotels in Miniloc, Lagen and Pangalusian Islands, is your best bet for a truly superb stay – charter private ‘bangkas’, or wooden boats, to visit El Nido’s many natural sites such as the picturesque Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Seven Commandos Beach, and Snake Island.

4. Coron, Palawan

Coron blends perfect white sand beaches with clear freshwater lakes and marine-life-rich lagoons. Kayangan Lake is one of the most beautiful natural sites here, and is known as one of the cleanest bodies of water in the Philippines. To stay, Two Seasons Coron , which occupies the tip of a snake-shaped corner of the island, is a classically-Filipino style resort that maximises the best of Coron’s gorgeous natural surroundings while offering the world-renowned hospitality of the Filipino people.

5. Pamalican Island, Palawan

Known as one of the Philippines’ most luxurious private islands , Amanpulo certainly lives up to its impeccable reputation. Occupying the beautiful Pamalican Island in the Cuyo Archipelago of Northern Palawan, it offers the ultimate in smart tropical living. Guests can choose to stay in the Casitas, which are built on the island’s lush forest canopies or the Villas, which each include its secluded beachfront. Surrounded by pristine reefs, verdant jungles, and offering plenty of water sports and activities — there are plenty of reasons to splash out on a stint here.

6. Calaguas, Camarines Norte

Within driving distance from the capital of Metro Manila, Calaguas is an uninhabited group of islands perfect for those looking for a more rustic island experience. ‘Mahabang Buhangin’, which translates to ‘long sand’, is the most popular atoll and is known for its two-mile stretch of pristine beach. With not a single hotel on these islands, camping under the stars is your only choice for accommodation, which may discourage travellers from looking for familiar creature comforts. However, for those willing to brave the wilderness and total lack of any amenities, a visit to this wild, untouched island is well worth the discomfort.

7. Balesin, Quezon

Balesin Island Club is a 500-hectare private resort that is just a 25-minute flight from Metro Manila . This members’ club even has an airport – with guests often arriving in their jets and helicopters. Balesin has seven sumptuous environments that were inspired by the world’s most iconic summer destinations. The Balesin, Phuket , Mykonos , St. Tropez , Costa del Sol and Toscana villages each reflect the same architectural touches and gastronomic delights as their namesake destinations — and do so with plenty of gusto.

8. Sorsogon, Bicol

In many ways, Sorsogon is the best place to discover the Philippines’ vibrant wildlife – one of the richest in the world. It is perfect for those looking to add a bit of adventure to their Philippines sojourn. Here, you can swim with manta rays and giant ‘Butandings’ (whale sharks), hike the Bulusan Volcano National Park or sail along the Donsol River. A relatively-unknown spot, the Donsol River is a wonderfully ethereal boating experience, as its idyllic rural landscape gets transformed by hundreds of thousands of fireflies that illuminate the riverbank once night falls.

9. San Juan, La Union

San Juan is another surfing paradise in the province of La Union in Luzon, the Philippines’ largest landmass. Just a few hours’ drive away from Metro Manila, San Juan has become a popular weekend getaway for locals looking for a sun-soaked escape from the busy capital. This laidback town has plenty to offer those looking for a more relaxed stay, with a string of quirky cafés and hidden gastronomic gems. Beyond all the incredible surf spots that San Juan has to offer, visitors can head to Tangadan Falls for cliff-diving, bask in the infinitely blue views of the Luna Pebble Beach or visit the wonderfully eccentric, sculptural museum-cum-ancestral home ‘Bahay na Bato,’ which translates to House of Rock.

10. Puerto Princesa, Palawan

Yet another Palawan spot on the list, Puerto Princesa is home to many of the Philippines’ indigenous flora and fauna. The Subterranean River Natural Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site , is a magical albeit eerie place that is an absolute must-see. Here, you can explore the vast, cavernous limestone caves with a boat tour and enter the dark echoing depths of the Saint Paul Mountain Range.

Elsewhere in Puerto Princesa, you can meet monkeys and monitor lizards at the wildlife reserve or go on an island-hopping excursion from Honda Bay. From here, you can sail to the nearby Starfish, Luli and Cowrie islets whose names reveal exactly what you will find in each of these small pockets of paradise. For an excellent home-cooked meal, drop by the Purple Fountain, whose menu is as colourful as this quirky hotel’s joyfully-painted walls.

Best Islands in the Philippines

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written by Esme Fox

updated 28.03.2023

Isolated white-sand beaches, reefs teeming with marine life, cascading rice terraces – it’s no wonder that the Philippines is thought of as paradise. And there’s even more than meets the eye , from the world’s smallest primate to the unique hanging coffins of Sagada. Yet, with well over 7,000 islands you can get overwhelmed by what’s on offer. Whatever kind of trip you’re after , here’s our guide to the best islands in the Philippines.

1. For beaches and wildlife: Palawan

2. one of the best islands in the philippines for reef diving: mindoro, 3. for nature: bohol, 4. for wreck diving: coron, 5. for adventure sports: boracay, 6. for diversity: luzon, 7. for getting off the beaten track: ticao, 8. for bird watching: olango island, 9. for quiet sandy beaches: panglao island, 10. for rural atmosphere: guimaras, 11. for unexpected discoveries: panay, 12. for exciting adventures: sibuyan, 13. for unspoiled beauty: malapascua, 14. for surfing: siargao, 15. for a peaceful getaway: bantayan island.

The information in this article is inspired by The Rough Guide to the Philippines , your essential guide for visiting the Philippines .

Travel ideas for Philippines, created by local experts

Tropical Escape to Palawan

Only have a few days to discover the island paradise of El Nido? Fly into Manila and take a domestic flight the next day to enjoy the white sandy beaches. Take a full day boat tour to discover the Bacuit Bay before enjoying a last dinner on the island and heading out to Manila on Day 4.

Island Paradise Palawan

Explore the island paradise of Palawan: From the Underground River in Sabang to feeling like Robinson Crusoe on Flower Island to the popular dive and beach hang-out El Nido, this itinerary shows you the variety Palawan has to offer.

Paradise Islands: Boracay & Palawan

Discover two paradise islands in the Philippines: world-famous Boracay and El Nido on Palawan. Enjoy luxurious hotels, white sandy beaches, a fascinating underwater world and the hospitality of the local population.

A Palawan Beach Dream

Endless white beaches, a fascinating underwater world, snorkeling, kayaking, diving - this itinerary is a dream for all the beach bums out there. Discovering Modessa Island, El Nido and Coron, you will see highlights of Palawan with plenty of time to relax and sip coconuts on the beach.

Total immersion - Visayas

Explore the fascinating Visayas: First you will get to know Cebu with its waterfalls and islands before heading to Dumaguete to swim with turtles and over to Bohol: known for its chocolate hills and tarsiers, this island never ceases to amaze. A few more beach days in Siquijor conclude this trip.

A diving adventure in Palawan

A fascinating underwater world is ready to be explored. Coron is known for its wreck diving while El Nido has beautiful islands, hidden lagoons, and hundreds of species of coral and marine life. This itinerary allows you to discover both places, above and below the water.

The Philippines’ eco-island remains a firm backpacker favourite. Palawan ’s capital, Puerto Princesa is carbon-neutral, while the island and its beaches have collected countless accolades – particularly for the jaw-dropping Nacpan Beach near El Nido. For many, a visit to Palawan is all about getting out on the water.

Once there you can go island-hopping between hidden coves and deserted beaches, and snorkelling in the coral reef-filled waters. For many, the island’s main attraction is the famous Puerto Princesa Underground River . One of the ‘New 7 Wonders of Nature' – the river runs for 8.2km underneath the St Paul Mountain Range.

A fascinating underwater world is ready to be explored. Coron is known for its wreck diving while El Nido has one of the most beautiful islands in the Philippines, hidden lagoons, and hundreds of species of coral and marine life. This tailor-made diving adventure in Palawan allows you to discover both places, above and below the water.

Where to stay on the Palawan islands:

• For a hidden beach: Sunset Colors
• For city stays: Hue Hotels and Resorts Puerto Princesa

Find more accommodation options to stay on the Palawan island

The beautiful scenery around Palawan - one of the most popular islands in the Philippines © Kasia Soszka/Shutterstock

While many islands in the Philippines are full of excellent snorkelling and scuba diving opportunities, Mindoro goes the extra mile. Some 30km off the coast lies the Mindoro . It's one of the world’s most spectacular and important reefs, with over 450 different species of coral.

Once you're at the reef you'll see all sorts of marine life, from giant schools of tuna to barracudas, sharks, sea turtles and manta rays. Other top dive sites around Mindoro can be accessed from the popular town of Mindoro , which is situated on the north side of the island.

Where to stay on Mindoro island:

• For peaceful stays: Playa Blanca Beach Resort
• For families: Blue Crystal Beach Resort

Find more accommodation options to stay on Mindoro island

Sabangvideo/Shutterstock

Part of the Visayas group of islands in the Philippines, Bohol is a nature paradise packed with national parks, spectacular beaches and cascading waterfalls. Many people visit to see the famous Chocolate Hills – over a thousand rounded hills, that turn chocolate brown in the dry season.

Bohol offers numerous encounters with wildlife – the highlight being a chance to see tarsiers. These tiny, saucer-eyed creatures are the world’s smallest primates.

On this tailor-made Total immersion in Visayas you will get to know Cebu with its waterfalls and some of the best islands in the Philippines before heading to Dumaguete to swim with turtles and over to Bohol: known for its chocolate hills and tarsiers, this island never ceases to amaze. A few more beach days in Siquijor conclude this trip.

Where to stay on Bohol island:

• For river views: Fox & The Firefly Cottages
• For luxury: South Palms Resort Panglao

Find more accommodation options to stay on Bohol island

A tiny tarsier on the island of Bohol © IRA_EVVA/Shutterstock

One of the Calamian Islands, Coron is known for its diverse opportunities for shipwreck diving. If you're a scuba diving fan Coron should be on your list of the best islands in the Philippines. You'll get the chance to explore World War II-era Japanese ships. Besides wreck diving, other top dive sites in and around Coron include the jungle-encircled Lake Barracuda and Siete Picados Reef.

At the reef, you can see everything from sea turtles to staghorn coral. Snorkellers can also explore these sites, as well as the eerie Kayangan Lake, where strange rock formations and bizarre needlefish lurk just beneath the surface.

Where to stay on Coron island:

• For boutique stays: The Funny Lion
• For price and quality: Bay Area Lodge

Find more accommodation options to stay on Coron island

Snorkelling in Coron © Khoroshunova Olga/Shutterstock

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Located in the central Visayas region, Boracay is one of the smallest islands in the Philippines on our list. The island hit the headlines in 2018 when the Philippines government announced it was 'closing' the island. Tourists were banned from visiting for 6 months while the island's infrastructure and ecosystem recovered. Now, the island is welcoming tourists again, albeit with stricter rules in place.

Here you’ll find many of the top international chains of hotels and resorts. On top of that, there are plenty of beach bars and clubs – especially around White Beach and Bulabog Beach. Adrenaline seekers will be spoilt for choice here with a range of water sports and other adventures on offer. Options range from windsurfing, kitesurfing and parasailing to cliff diving, horse riding and sailing.

Discover two paradise islands in the Philippines with our tailor-made trip to Boracay & Palawan . Enjoy luxurious hotels, white sandy beaches, a fascinating underwater world and the hospitality of the local population.

Where to stay on Boracay island:

• For ambience: 7Stones Boracay
• For White beach location: The Piccolo Hotel of Boracay

Find more accommodation options to stay on Boracay island

Boracay - one of the best islands in the Philippines for water sports © Anna ART/Shutterstock

The Philippines’ biggest and most densely populated island, Luzon, is home to the nation’s capital Manila , with its bustling traffic-clogged streets and swanky shopping malls . North of Manila, this vast island unravels a range of sights. You can see everything from 2,000-year-old rice terraces and Sagada’s hanging coffins to the historic colonial city of Vigan.

Meanwhile, Southern Luzon is known for its coconut-infused cuisine, wild windswept eastern coastline and the perfectly conical Mt Mayon – the Philippines’ most active volcano.

Where to stay in Luzon:

• For family stays: Timberland Highlands Resort
• For peaceful surroundings: The Farm at San Benito

Find more accommodation options to stay in Luzon

Mt Mayon in Luzon © Wassily-architect/Shutterstock

The little island of Ticao is part of the Masbate Province and it lies just off the tip of Southern Luzon. Home to just two resorts, a smattering of tiny villages and one small town, the landscape here consists of isolated golden beaches, rainforests and waterfalls. Here you’re unlikely to meet other travellers and you’ll often the beaches deserted.

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The excellent snorkelling spots are often quiet too. The waters off the coast are a favourite for a variety of manta rays and sharks, including blacktip reef sharks, whale sharks and even hammerheads.

Ticao's unspoiled surroundings © Khoroshunova Olga/Shutterstock

Five kilometres east of Mactan Island, Olango Island supports the largest concentration of migratory birds in the country. About 77 species, including egrets, sandpipers, terns and black-bellied plovers, use the island as a rest stop on their annual migration from breeding grounds in Siberia, northern China and Japan to Australia and New Zealand.

Declared a wildlife reserve in 1998, the island is also home to about 16,000 resident native birds which live mostly in the northern half; the southern half of the island is made up of a wide, shallow bay and expanses of mudflats and mangroves. The reserve is at its best during peak migration months: September to November for the southward migration and February to April northbound.

Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary © Shutterstock

The island of Panglao is a tropical diving paradise with some lovely sandy beaches and a friendly little capital with an old Spanish church. The best quiet, undeveloped stretches of white sand on the east coast are Bikini Beach, San Isidro Beach and Libaong Beach – this is an ideal place to relax if you want to get away from it all.

The reef at the western end of Panglao, a few minutes by banca from Alona Beach, is in good condition, with healthy corals, a multitude of reef fish and perpendicular underwater cliffs that drop to a depth of 50m.

Where to stay on Panglao island:

• For families: Island World Panglao
• For friendly vibes: Tamarind

Panglao island beach © Shutterstock

Between the islands of Panay and Negros is the small island province of Guimaras , known in the Philippines for the sweetness and juiciness of its mangoes. Separated from the Panay mainland by the narrowest slither of the ocean, Guimaras is a gentle island of few hassles, where the people depend largely on agriculture for their livelihood and treat tourists with a mixture of kindness and curiosity.

You get the feeling that while tourism has begun to get its claws into Guimaras, it still can’t quite hold on. In the hinterlands and most of the barangays, life continues to revolve around the harvesting of citrus fruit, coconuts and rice. Other industries are equally rural, including fishing, charcoal production, basket making and mat weaving.

Where to stay on Guimaras island:

• For stunning views: Nature's Eye Resort
• For price and quality: SunSea Resort

Aerial View of Guisi Lighthouse in Guimaras © Shutterstock

The substantial, vaguely triangular island of Panay has been largely bypassed by tourism, perhaps because everyone seems to get sucked towards Boracay off its northern tip instead. There’s room enough on Panay, though, for plenty of discovery and adventure: the island has a huge coastline and a mountainous, jungled interior that has yet to be fully mapped.

Looking for some more exotic destinations for your trip? Read our guide about the best things to do on the Fiji islands or explore the most exotic places to travel in the world .

Vibrant green tropical valley with rice field and farmland - Panay, Philippines © Shutterstock

Dominated by the ragged saw-like bulk of Mount Guiting Guiting (an unforgettable sight), the isolated Sibuyan Island is the easternmost of the Romblon group and has everything an adventure traveller could dream of. Sibuyan is known for its sparkling coastline, thickly forested interior and a couple of daunting mountain peaks.

This magnificent emerald isle, covering 450 square kilometres, has one of the most intact natural environments in the entire country, a fact that was recognized in 1996 when a large part of Sibuyan was declared a reserve.

Cresta De Gallo Island near Sibuyan island © Shutterstock

Eight kilometres off the northern tip of Cebu, the island of Malapascua has been touted as the next Boracay, largely because of Bounty Beach, a blindingly white stretch of sand on the island’s south coast where a dozen simple resorts have sprung up offering a good choice of accommodation.

The beauty of Malapascua is that while it’s every bit as scenic as Boracay (and, at 2.5km long and 1km wide, even smaller), it has none of the cosmopolitan development, with no big hotels, no fashionable nightclubs and only a handful of beach-style bars frequented largely by divers.

Where to stay on Malapascua island:

• For beach location: JPH Resort
• For dive trips: Avila's Horizon Dive Resort Malapascua

Find more accommodation options to stay on Malapascua island

Malapascua Island in the Visayan Sea, One of Cebu Island © Shutterstock

Off the northeastern tip of Mindanao lies the teardrop-shaped island of Siargao , a largely undeveloped backwater with Boracay-type beaches and dramatic coves and lagoons. Siargao has got everything, with a typically tropical coastal landscape of palm trees and dazzling seas, and a verdant hinterland of rustic little barrios and coconut groves.

Some of the first tourists here were surfers, who discovered a break at Tuason Point that was so good they called it Cloud 9, and though it’s still off the tourist trail, word-of-mouth is bringing an increasing number of surfers from around the world.

Where to stay on Siarago island:

• For the perfect getaway: DaRosa Del Mar
• For chill vibes: Hiraya Surf Hostel

Find more accommodation options to stay on Siarago island

Siargao - one of the best islands in the Philippines for surfers © Shutterstock

Bantayan Island, just off the northwest coast of Cebu , is quiet and bucolic, flat and arable, without the moody mountains of mainland Cebu. It’s a great place to explore, though divers will be disappointed with the lack of coral left along the shore. Most of the island’s resorts and beaches are around the attractive little town of Santa Fe on the southeast coast, which is where ferries from mainland Cebu arrive.

Where to stay on Bantayan Island:

• For authentic style: Carl‘s Island Inn
• For couples: Anahaw Seaside Inn

Find more accommodation options to stay on Bantayan Island

Bantayan island, Philippines © Shutterstock

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Top image: Beautiful scenery of Coron, Palawan, Philippines © Kasia Soszka/Shutterstock

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Home » Travel Guides » The Philippines » 25 Best Islands to Visit in the Philippines

25 Best Islands to Visit in the Philippines

With over 7,100 islands, it might seem like an impossible task to narrow it down to the best 25 islands- but we like a challenge. Here are the islands that have the most to offer. You’ll find easily accessible islands with airports and well-oiled public transportation systems and then you’ll find islands where there are no more than dirt paths filled with potholes which you can only hope don’t bust the tire on your motorbike.

There are islands with huge shopping malls filled with cinemas and food courts, then there are islands where the only place to buy a soda is a dude’s cooler on the beach. Tap into the culture of the Philippines with a visit to a Catholic church for Sunday mass or jump in on a game of pickup basketball with a bunch of smiley barefooted kids. Island hop around the country to discover how vast, beautiful, and unique this country really is.

Let’s explore the best islands to visit in the Philippines :

1. Palaui Island

Palaui Island perfectly represents why most travelers come to the Philippines- to find a paradise where it feels like you’re the first human to ever step foot. That’s what it feels like on Palaui Island. You can find deserted beaches, eerie caves, crystal clear waterfalls, endless rice fields, and some of the cleanest air you’ve ever breathed.

As if Scotland had a baby with South East Asia, you’ll find bright green grass lying flat atop steep cliffs overlooking the sea. The terrain here is vast and varied. One day you could spend hours hiking through vibrant green rice fields and jungle paths only meeting water buffalo along the way; the day after you could beach hop all day from one patch of white shore to the next. For nature lovers, there are no limits here.

Situated at the northeastern tip of Mindanao, 800 kilometers south of Manilla, is a dream-come-true island called Siargao.

You’ve got a couple options of where to stay when you visit. The most popular option is General Luna Beach. This lively little island town is filled with restaurants, resorts, shops, and people- yet still encapsulates that small beach town charm.

This island has got it all- exotic wildlife, mangrove forest reserves, mesmerizing lagoons, and of course, perfect white sand beaches. But there is one more element that brings travelers to Siargao- surfing. There are great waves, swells, and shops that attract surfers who were lucky enough to find out about this gem!

3. Cebu Island

Everything you could ever want in a dream vacation is right here on Cebu Island.

Cebu is such a convenient spot for a holiday as you can fly into nearby Mactan-Cebu International Airport located close to beaches, restaurants, and accommodation.

You can get local by visiting family-owned watersport companies that will take you out parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boating. You can go on an island hopping tour to snorkel and even each raw sea urchin from the bottom of the ocean.

Down south you’ll find Tumalog Falls, a 5-story natural waterfall that has created a clear pool of water where the sun shines through the trees.

Best of all, off the coast of Oslob Beach on Cebu Island, you can go swimming with wild Whale Sharks.

4. Malapascua

Odds are, you’ve never even heard of Malapascua. It’s small, remote, and doesn’t offer much in terms of nightlife- but if you want a once-in-a-lifetime diving experience, this is where to get it.

Off the shores of Malapascua, you have the opportunity to swim with schools of Thresher Sharks. With its long, distinctive tail that cuts through the water as it gracefully hovers over the ocean floor, swimming with a Thresher Shark can be a thrilling experience.

After you dive, head back to the island of Malapascua for some of the most impressive scenery yet. Like I said, there isn’t much development here- just untouched, raw beauty.

The mother of all things magical and mystical in the Philippines is Palawan. It is home to El Nido (which deserves a rank of its own on this list) and many more mysterious Disney-esque destinations that attract travelers from all over the world.

It’s capitol, Puerto Princesa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as if this island wasn’t already impressive enough.

Everyone knows that you can find El Nido and Coron in the North with breath taking cliffs that wind together to create crazy waterfalls, passageways and landscape, but what about further south?

Check out Brooke’s Point that is home to Bakbakan Falls and Mainit Hot Springs where you can bath in hot pools of medicinal water. Also check out Rizal which is home to some cool eco houses where you can kayak, surf, and snorkel.

Unlike Malupascua, everyone knows of El Nido. Yet, this stretch of island has managed to keep its pure beauty in tact. El Nido is considered to be a world of its own and has some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes and scenery in the Philippines- and perhaps, in the world.

Take the 4-island tour on a classic catamaran to gain the full perspective of how paradisiacal this place really is. Nothing like you’ve ever seen before, the islands here are comprised of jagged grey cliffs sporadically covered in lush green overgrowth next to bright white sand beaches and turquoise water. Genuinely breathtaking and awe-inspiring, your time spent in El Nido will feel like you’re been transported onto an Avatar-like planet which you’ll never want to leave.

The number one travel tip to get the most out of your Bohol experience is to find a local tour guide(s) to hire and befriend for your time spent on the island. This island is filled with hidden nature spots including secret waterfalls, fisherman-only rivers, off-the-beaten path piers with handicraft markets, local grilled seafood spots, and more that you won’t find on your own.

The local motorbike tour guides here draw a blurred line between tour guide and friend. They will open up to you, welcome you, and go the extra mile to make your time unforgettable. Get ready for a homegrown experience full of natural adventures on this surprisingly underrated island.

8. Dumaguette

Come to Dumaguette where you can take a day trip across to Aple Island which translates into ‘Turtle Island’. You’ll see big sea turtles constantly surfacing for air all around you. Jump off the boat and go for a swim with them. These turtles are actually quite used to have tourists splashing around them so they will let you get pretty close for photos and experiences that make time go super slow- just respect their space.

Don’t forget to check out Cassaroro Falls- you won’t be disappointed.

From Dumaguette, consider taking a quick 2-hour trip up to Manguete- what is often called “the Maldives of the Philippines”. On this little detour, you’ll find a warm sand bar in the middle of the open water with free-standing huts that are what Instagram goals are made of.

9. MoalBoal

The island of MoalBoal is home to Badian Canyon- a winding canyon of waterfalls, rock formations, and fluorescent blue water that looks like someone has been pouring food coloring in drop by drop. One of the most memorable experiences you can have in the Philippines is to take a full-day guided trip that involves jumping from high places and getting wet. More specifically, you’ll be guided through narrow crevasses filled with waterfalls, tropical foliage, natural pools of water and natural waterslides. At the end of your day-long journey, you’ll come to Kawawan Falls- a waterfall that you have to see to believe. You’ll wear a helmet, life jacket, and be sure to bring a pair of tennis shoes.

10. Bantayan

The definition of exploring, getting lost, and reconnecting with mother Earth- a trip to Bantayan is nothing short of life changing. As we speak, Bantayan Island is a sprawling island at the northern end of Cebu whose land has not yet been overdeveloped. Visit groves of tropical trees in their natural form, go cliff jumping at your leisure, play with some free-roaming goats, rent a motorbike and get lost on the island- this place is your playground. Hurry up and visit Bantayan now, because it’s only a matter of time before land developers grab hold of this piece of paradise. At least you’ll be able to say, “I was there when…”

It’s not the easiest to access, but utopia never is. While every island might claim to be the most beautiful, the most pristine, the most memorable- Coron actually takes the cake. It’s magical.

Getting there will involve either a 5-hour ferry from El Nido or you can take a (slightly expensive) puddle jumper flight from Manilla- but once you arrive, every penny and every second of travel spent will be immediately worth it.

First thing to do is to rent a scooter and go. Wind through golden fields, dusty roads, and rolling hills to discover the most incredible views. The contrasting colors of dry landscape to lush jungle next to white sand and crystal blue water cannot be described in words.

Spend the entire day feeling like a pioneer who is discovering an island for the first time. No tourists, few villages, and certainly no big development.

12. Cambari

The perfect sunset exists on Cambari Island, just off the coast of Palawan’s Araceli. Go for the day where you can investigate the unique rock formations that create a fantastic collection of caves to explore. You’ll find several caves filled with pools of water where you can swim in what feels like your own private swimming pool.

The turquoise water sparkles with soft white sand on the bottom clearly visible from the surface. Go snorkeling and discover the gorgeous corals and all the biodiversity which they hold, including monster lobsters and graceful manta rays.

When you’ve had your fill of fun, sit on the shore and wait for the sun to set.

Luzon Island is one of the most important islands as it is home to the capitol of the Philippines, Manilla. Most travelers skip over Manila completely as they expect that it’s just another Asian city with traffic, shopping, and bars, which is true. But what most travelers don’t know is that there are some spectacular hiking opportunities just a bus ride away from the capitol.

Health freaks and workout rats will love the hiking that surrounds this city. Take a mini bus to Pico de Loro to hike Mt. Palay 664 meters above sea level. You can camp out on the mountain in various campsites where you’ll meet other travelers.

Also accessible from Manila is Mt. Batuloa 811 meters above sea level and just an hour away from Manila. This trail is perfect for beginners who want a day hike to capture amazing views.

14. Siquijor Island

Rent a motorbike and tour the entire perimeter of the island within a couple days. Stopping by waterfalls, swimming holes, and white sand beaches, you’ve never felt so free. Go cliff jumping into the clean and clear water, trek into the jungle, and eat until you’re stuffed.

You’ll also have a chance to get in touch the history of the Philippines on this island by visiting tons of Spanish-influenced landmarks such as St Francis de Assisi Church and the thought-provoking (and dilapidating) St. Isidore de Labrador Church.

You really get the best of both worlds on this little island off the coast of Bohol.

• 15.  Guimaras Island

Here are a handful of white sand beaches hiding in plain site! Guimaras Island is home to three pristine beaches: Nagarao, Inampulogan, and Nauway. These tranquil beaches rarely see any foreign visitors and occasionally get visits from playful groups of Filipino friends looking for an adventure.

You’d think an island that is home to a mango tree plantation, marine reserves, lighthouses, catholic churches, caves, a sea turtle conservation center, incredible restaurants, waterfalls, and undisturbed photo opportunities that there would be more visitors- but this island hasn’t hit the holidaymaker map…yet.

16. Calaguas Islands

In the Province of Camarines Norte lies a group of untouched virgin islands that should be on every Eden-lover’s bucket list. When you want to get away from the world, wifi, and reality TV stars, these dots in the ocean are where to go. Most tourists spend with day swimming at Long Beach, a sprawling piece of white sand with volcanic rock at both ends, while having a picnic on the shore.

While there are resorts on these islands, consider camping! For a small park fee, you and your friends can set up camp on the beach. Just imagine watching the sun fade away into a glittering star-filled sky and falling asleep to the sounds of waves crashing on the shore. You then get to wake up in paradise. Is there any better feeling than that?

17. Batan Island

Take a break from the beaches and bathing suits and step into the country.

This dumbbell-shaped volcanic island is a sprawling landscape of farming plots, rice fields, and forests, all neatly separated with natural fences that create a quilt-like design.

It’s a different world out here as you’ll learn via the honesty system at Honesty Coffee Shop. With no store attendants, you are free to pick up your goodies as you please, leaving the right amount of money as you check out.

Fun fact: Located at the most northern tip of the Philippines’ chain of islands, Batan was the first island to be inhabited during the Japanese invasion.

18. Bucas Grande Island

Swimming with jellyfish, exploring underground caves and tunnels, enjoying winding boat tours through mountainous passageways, and fishing with locals- that’s what you can expect on a trip to Bucas Grande Island.

You’ve never experienced anything like swimming in clear water surrounded by jellyfish of all kinds. You’ll find yellow baby jellyfish about the size of your palm, and bigger brown spotted jellyfish about the size of your forearm. It’s such a fascinating phenomenon that you’ll certainly want to bring your underwater camera. Oh, and don’t worry- they’ don’t sting!

19. Malalison Island

Activities, activities, activities! Malalison Island is perfect for the travelers who love to trek, snorkel, and discover local culture.

To explore this slice of heaven, you must hire a guide to take you trekking. You’ll spend the day on a moderately easy trek through the gorgeous mountains where the guide will point out wildlife, flora, and fauna. You will eventually make it to a small cave on the other side of the island where you can hop on a big bamboo swing and purchase snacks from the local shop. Take your snorkeling gear with you as there is a small wildlife sanctuary where you can snorkel with the fish. After your long hike, relax on a beautiful sandbar where boats will be waiting to take you back.

20. Panay Island

Getting off the beaten path is the most fruitful in the Philippines. Stay in the Kalibo area where you’ll find tons of beachfront guest houses that are not only less crowded, but also less expensive. I’m talking about beachfront villas for half the price that you would pay on Boracay.

Go without a plan and just wander. Discover local villages, meet local families and experience how they live. Hire a motor taxi to take you to look at properties with amazing views or to take you to the best local restaurant that he personally knows. Don’t hesitate to makes stops to get off the bike and have a beer with some locals. This is how the best adventures begin.

21. Corregidor

Take a step into the past as you visit the island of Corregidor. What was once a battle ground between American, Japanese, and Filipino troops during World War II is now a piece of history. You can visit this tiny island fortress where you’ll be able to picture the battles as they happened for yourself. See firsthand relics of the war as you go through a guided tour visiting the light hours, the barracks, and some humbling monuments.

When you want to lighten the mood, there are bird watching and boat tours around the island.

The easiest way to visit Corregidor is to join a tour group that will organize your transportation and offer lunch.

22. Great Santa Cruz Island

This little spec in the middle of the ocean could easily be a picture on a postcard. If you are a nature buff, here is home to some of the most diverse wildlife and marine life in the Philippines. Check out the mangrove forest where jungle trees have popped up while still half submerged in water. Grab your snorkel mask and head out into the corals where you’ll find colorful fish of all kinds. Bring your towel and a book to work on your tan on the beach. This is just the most peaceful place to explore for a day.

You can book your tours in Zamboanga City where everything will be arranged for you.

Tip: When traveling in the South, always stick with a tour guide who knows their way around conflict areas.

23. Tawi-Tawi

How far would you go for paradise? Tawi-Tawi’s location is quite surprising. This island is actually closer to Malaysia than it is the Philippines, which is why you’ve probably never heard of it. But I can guarantee you that after today you’ll never forget it.

Because of its location, this island is full of totally unique culture and traditions- almost like it’s own little country. Food is a blend of Malay and Filipino and the people speak with a unique accent.

While you’re there, you can climb the mountain called Bud Bongao which locals believe can heal disease. You can visit some mosques, as there is quite a large Muslim population here. You can also visit Sama Dilaut Village where you’ll find rows of wooden houses on stilts over water. Did I mention white sand beaches?

You’ve never seen anything like this island.

24. San Jose, Dinagat Island

A day won’t feel like enough when you visit San Jose on Dinagat Island. There is so much to see and so many people who want to share their hospitality. This is a chance to see how life is like outside of the big cities and popular tourist destinations while stepping into small town life.

As you come in by boat from Surigao City, you’ll pass unique rock formations that look like huge crystals popping out of the ground. At the top of the island, you’ll see castle built by a local islander who craved the best views. There’s a lighthouse, beautiful jungle hills, and as you approach the port, a quaint line of colorful boats all in a row.

As you disembark and head into town, it might feel like you’ve stepped onto a Caribean island with bright yellow and green houses lining narrow streets as locals sit on their porch watching the day go by.

Take a motorbike to tour the hills where you’ll see sweeping vistas with more islands in the distance. Just be sure to find a good spot to watch the sun go down.

25. Britania Islands

The aquatic version of Bohol’s ‘Chocolate Hills’ are right here in San Agustin. The Britania Islands are a collection of 24 “islets” or small islands that have popped up all over this narrow region. Take an Island hopping tour and you’ll visit the 4 main islands with the most to offer.

You’ll see the most serene contrast of colors out on these ‘middle of nowhere’ islands and you’ll also visit a ‘Cast Away’ style island with a small beach full of interesting limestone formations. The most enjoyable part of this island tour however, is cruising on a catamaran all day while living the tropical life.

25 Best Islands to Visit in the Philippines:

• Palaui Island
• Cebu Island
• Siquijor Island
• Calaguas Islands
• Batan Island
• Bucas Grande Island
• Malalison Island
• Panay Island
• Great Santa Cruz Island
• San Jose, Dinagat Island
• Britania Islands

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The Philippines

The 20 best islands in the philippines for every type of traveller.

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With over 7,000 islands in the Philippines, how on earth to choose? Whether you’re planning to go backpacking the Philippines or taking the luxury vacation of a lifetime, the first thing you’ll want to know is ‘which are the best islands in the Philippines to visit?’ Well, it really depends on what you’re into. You might imagine beautiful beaches and crystal clear oceans when you picture the Philippines , and you wouldn’t be wrong. But there’s plenty of variety between the islands. Some are popular party islands with beach bars and boat cruises, while others are quiet and local. Some have little to do but lounge on the beach (which might be exactly what you need) whereas others are known for their bountiful sea life and exceptional snorkelling and diving opportunities. Whether you want a luxury escape or a remote adventure, you’ll want to suss out the most beautiful islands before you arrive.

Read next: 101 tips for travelling in Southeast Asia

The top islands in the Philippines

Rather than pack in island after island during a two-week trip, I’d recommend picking a select few based on what you’re into (for example, diving, snorkelling or partying) and making the most of them. You’ll also want to consider how much tourism the islands receive. If you’re the type of traveller who likes to escape the crowds and experience local culture, avoid the most famous islands in the Philippines (*cough* Boracay). Here’s my run-down of the best islands to visit in the Philippines in no particular order (although I can’t lie; number 1 is my favourite).

How to get between the Philippines islands

The Philippines is one of the harder Asian countries to travel around. There’s a clear Southeast Asia backpacking route crossing land borders between Thailand, Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia. You can even reach Myanmar and Malaysia without taking a flight. But the Philippines? Not so much. You’ll probably need to take a handful of internal flights. Manila and Cebu are the big hubs but many smaller islands have airports, too. In fact, there are 70 Philippines airports. If you have enough time, reduce your carbon footprint by using buses and ferries to reach the smaller islands. For example, you can fly to Cebu then catch a ferry to Bohol then, from there, a ferry to Siquijor.

Best Philippines islands

With no more ado, here are the most magical places to visit in the Philippines…

1. Malapascua – best Filipino island for diving

Not only is Malapascua one of the most beautiful islands in the Philippines, but it’s also a diver’s paradise. Although you can take your basic Open Water qualification here if you wish, it’s more of an advanced destination because the real attraction is 30 metres below surface level… Malapascua is the best place in the world to see distinctive thresher sharks as they clean and feed. These distinctive sharks with long tail fins are harmless and inquisitive, swimming right up to you.

Check out my friend’s video of our shark dive :

Even if diving isn’t your bag, Malapascua offers everything you’d expect from a Filipino island and a lot of local life, adding a real sense of character. The vibe is unlike any of the more developed, touristic islands. Hire a scooter and local guide in the late afternoon to catch sunset from the cliff viewpoints. How to get to Malapascua: Catch a 4-hour bus from Cebu city to the northmost tip of Cebu island (New Maya Port) and board a boat to Malapascua. These depart when full and take 30 minutes.

2. Kalanggaman – AKA paradise

My idea of paradise? Kalanggaman . This tiny sandbar island measuring a matter of metres in length is shaped like a teardrop. In the municipality of Palompon in Leyte, it’s easily visited from Malapascua. You can snorkel offshore and spot colourful marine life around the reef. Aside from relaxing on the beach and swimming, there’s little else to do on Kalanggaman but that’s hardly a problem. You can bring a tent and stay overnight but note there are no facilities or electricity. That’s part of the island’s charm! How to get to Kalanggaman: The easiest option is to take an organised trip from Malapascua. You’ll pay around P800 including lunch for a return boat trip and another P500 as an island entrance fee but with views like this, you’d be mad not to.

3. Palawan – the most famous island in the Philippines

Aside from Boracay and Cebu, Palawan is one of the most famous islands in the Philippines – for good reason. If you’re looking for an island with numerous points of interest, tourist infrastructure and a wide range of accommodation options, Palawan is many destinations in one. It would take 10 hours to drive the length of Palawan with a multitude of towns, villages and beaches along the way. I’d recommend at least a week (if not two) exploring Palawan. Top stops include: El Nido : This region of Palawan is gorgeous but very busy. Boatloads of tourists head off in their throngs and it’s tricky to find a secluded spot. Port Barton: This town made me feel like an intrepid explorer back in 2016. There was little tourism infrastructure and no ATMs or electricity after 9pm. My best memory is taking a trip on a local’s boat including camping on an abandoned island, swimming with luminous plankton and snorkeling in secluded spots. However, I hear things have changed considerably in a few short years. Still, Port Barton is nowhere near as busy or crowded as El Nido.

How to get to Palawan : Fly into Puerto Princesa International Airport. Although many tourists travel directly to the beach, I spent time in Puerto Princesa City visiting the famous Underground River and Iwahig Prison to gain insight into the Filipino justice system and see the inmates dance and beatbox to raise money for their rehabilitation.

4. Coron – best for diving

Sparkling waters, colourful corals and tropical fish make Coron, just north of Palawan, a strong contender for the most beautiful island in the Philippines. Affordable boat cruises visit the various outlying islands, limestone karsts, beautiful beaches and gorgeous lakes. Snorkelling and diving are popular excursions with impressive WWII shipwrecks to see underwater. Depending on the tour you take, delicious seafood lunches are prepared while you explore, and served on the beach. There are excellent places to eat on Coron waterfront with a variety of restaurants that grill up fresh seafood, served to your table with a variety of side dish specialties from the area. Another reason to support Coron tourism? Operators are mandated to avoid plastic and recycle to protect the environment. How to get to Coron: Flights from Manila take less than one hour. Base yourself in the main city of Coron where you’ll find accommodation ranging from affordable guesthouses to Airbnbs and upmarket resorts. Coron entry submitted by Noel from California and Beyond .

Cebu is a province comprising 150 Filipino islands that surround the main island, home to Cebu city. The island’s charm doesn’t lie in this urban metropolis. Once you’ve landed, you’ll want to escape to more tranquil locations. Kawasan Falls, Moalboal and Oslob are some of the most beautiful places in Cebu. Snorkelling with an enormous living, breathing sardine shoal in Moalboal was one of the highlights of my backpacking trip. A word of warning – many tourists flock to Oslob to swim with whale sharks, however this activity isn’t carried out in an ethical way: the sharks are fed to encourage them to return to the same location each day, thus diminishing their migration skills and ability to find food. Please avoid. How to get to Cebu: Fly into Mactan–Cebu International Airport. Take buses between hubs on the island and hire a scooter to reach rural attractions.

Related read: where to stay in Cebu

6. Siquijor – best Filipino island for getting off-the-beaten-track

Siquijor is one of the best islands to visit in the Philippines if your objective is getting off-the-beaten-track. Shrouded in secrets, the island is home to mystical ‘healers’ and tales of witchcraft. This intriguing history dates back to a time when there were no hospitals on the island, meaning locals had to rely on their own forms of treatment. An off-beat attraction for those with an open mind is to visit a local witch doctor and receive an aura-cleansing ‘bulo bulo’ treatment. If that doesn’t float your boat, maybe beautiful beaches and waterfalls will. Despite the local feel of the island, it’s worth noting much of the coastline is owned by hotels so you may want to choose your accommodation with this in mind. Staying inland doesn’t have quite the same appeal. How to get to Siquijor: We travelled from Cebu to Bohol to Siquijor in this order. If time’s tight, take a ferry from Dumaguete Port (a 1-hour flight from Cebu city).

7. Bantayan Island

Northwest of Cebu is one of the best islands in the Philippines for escaping the crowds of Bohol and Cebu. With a name meaning watchtowers of the King , this Filipino island was once surrounded by 18 watchtowers built to ensure protection from pirates. Nowadays, the only things to be protected are the pristine beaches and corals. If you love seafood, Bantayan Island is a dream. Tuck into the catch of the day and pay considerably less than you would on one of the more touristic islands in the Philippines. How to get to Bantayan: Take a bus from Cebu’s North Bus Terminal to Hagnaya Port where you can board a ferry to Bantayan Island. The MyBus shuttle connects North Bus Terminal with Cebu airport.

8. Apo Island

Located in the Visayas, Apo Island is considered to be one of the best Philippine islands for divers. This volcanic island is home to around 1000 Filipinos, but what’s most extraordinary about Apo Island lies underwater.  Declared as a marine protected area, the waters surrounding Apo Island have become a sanctuary for sea creatures, especially endangered sea turtles. It’s also home to more than 615 documented species of fish and 400 coral species.  Because of the thriving coral reef system and its proximity to Dumaguete City in Negros Oriental, Apo Island has become a popular attraction for tourists. It’s a wonderful place to swim with turtles or dive within a healthy reef.  While there are resorts and restaurants on the island, most visitors prefer to visit Apo Island as a day trip. How to get to Apo: There are many travel services that arrange day trips to Apo Island from Dumaguete City. These usually include transport by land and boat, snorkeling and lunch. 

9. Bohol – best for countryside

A couple of hours south of Cebu lies Bohol. It’s known as one of the Philippine’s top islands: there are plenty of activities that don’t involve simply lying on a beach. See the famous Chocolate Hills, cruise down the Loboc River in a floating restaurant and meet tiny tarsier monkeys (the world’s smallest primate). You can also organise day trips to surrounding Philippines islands like Panglao. Tagbilaran is a convenient place to stay and you can easily organise tricycle tours around the island. However, you can find nicer and more beautiful bases, one of the best being Nuts Huts on the banks of the Loboc River. How to get to Bohol: Fly to Tagbilaran airport from Manila or catch a 2.5-hour ferry from Cebu city.

10. Panglao – best for marine life

This touristic, beachy island may not be a hidden gem but it’s still one of the most beautiful islands in the Philippines with plenty of activities and lively nightlife. The best place for hostels and nightlife is Alona Beach. It’s easy to organise island-hopping boat trips with opportunities for snorkelling with sea turtles and dolphin watching. Don’t miss nearby Balicasag Island and Virgin Island if you like snorkelling and diving. How to get to Panglao: Catch a tuk-tuk over the bridge from Bohol. If you choose not to stay overnight on Panglao, you can organise day rates with a local driver in Tagbilaran City who will take you to the Panglao points of interest and back to your accommodation at the end of the day.

11. Virgin Island

Off the coast of Panglao is this idyllic strip of white sand with no vegetation upon it. The water around the Virgin Island is so shallow you can walk around in the ocean with no waves or need to swim. Getting to the Virgin Island: This stop is included in tours from Bohol and Panglao visiting both Balicasag Island and the Virgin Island during the same day.

12. Balicasag Island

With white sandy beaches and clear aquamarine waters, Balicasag Island sounds like every other beautiful island in the Philippines. But it’s not. What makes this island special is its magical underwater world.  This tiny island is a favorite destination for both local and foreign tourists visiting Bohol. Balicasag Island is best known for island hopping, snorkeling, freediving, and scuba diving activities. From green sea turtles feeding on the seagrass to millions of colorful fishes playing in the reef, you won’t get bored underwater. Aside from the vibrant corals, a massive school of silver jacks is often found hanging around the island. It’s an impressive sight to behold, in itself worth the trip to Balicasag. 

In recent years, Balicasag has become one of the most popular islands in the Philippines and, as a result, the government has enforced a limit on the number of visitors. This is their way of protecting the island and its ocean inhabitants from over-tourism. To visit the island for beach bumming activities or to dive into the blue, plan well and secure a permit beforehand. Dive shops and island-hopping tour services in Panglao can arrange this for you.  How to get to Balicasag: It’s a 30-minute boat ride from Alona Beach in Panglao. Balicasag Island entry submitted by Ara from Philippines Dives .

If you want to get off-the-beaten-path in the Philippines, there’s no better place than  Leyte Island located in the Eastern Visayas province, not far from Cebu. Tacloban, the provincial capital, played a key role in the history of the Philippines. Learn about the MacArthur Landing, that took place when the Philippines was freed from Japanese rule in 1944 site, at the MacArthur Landing Memorial Park. There are many sites to see in Tacloban including the Leyte Provincial Capitol building and Santo Niño Shrine & Heritage Museum (once a presidential home). Go further afield to famous San Juanico Bridge and see sights on nearby islands including Sohoton National Park on Samar Island. Pay your respects at one of the sites remembering typhoon Yolanda (known as Haiyan internationally), one of the worst natural disasters in the Philippines’ history. You can see a large cargo ship thrown ashore by the typhoon that wrecked Leyte in 2013, as well as a tribute to the victims on a graffiti wall. When in Tacloban, eat at Ocho Seafood and Grill and visit the public market in Barangay (Quarter) 38. Getting to Leyte: Fly to Tacloban from Manila or Cebu. Leyte Island entry submitted by Veronika from Travel Geekery .

14. Guimaras – best for mangos

At last count, the Philippines is comprised of 7,641 islands. Many are home to beautiful beaches but not all can claim to have the best mangoes in the Philippines. That distinction goes to just one island: Guimaras.  Guimaras is an island province in the Western Visayas region, situated in the Panay Gulf between the islands of Panay and Negros. Like many islands in the Philippines, it boasts natural wonders including sandy beaches, caves and waterfalls, but what truly sets this island apart are its mangoes.  Guimaras mangoes are known to be the sweetest in the country, which is saying a lot because the Philippines is home to arguably the best mangoes in the world! Anyone who’s tried them can tell you Guimaras mangoes have a robust, nectar-y sweetness, unlike any mango you’ve ever tasted. 

So revered are Guimaras mangoes that an annual festival called the Manggahan Festival is held in their honor every May. For two weeks, the island celebrates these magnificent fruits with parades, sporting events and a ‘Mango All You Can’ bonanza where participants get to eat as much mango and mango goodies as they can for half an hour. The cost? Just 100 pesos, which is equivalent to about 2 USD.  Festival or no festival, be sure to try the mango pizza at The Pitstop restaurant . It’s oddly delicious and a rite of passage for any first-time visitor. If mango pizza doesn’t float your boat, maybe the delicious milkshakes will. Getting to Guimaras: Take a 15-minute ferry from Iloilo City. You can fly to Iloilo City or, if visiting Boracay, board a minibus from Kalibo. Guimaras entry submitted by JB of Will Fly For Food .

15. Mararison Island

Mararison Island  is a dreamy paradise just a few minutes off the coast of Culasi, Antique. Once a sleepy island with a quiet fishing village at its heart, it’s since come under the tourism spotlight. Although fishing remains the primary livelihood, tourism has changed the way the locals live. Many have become tourist guides and homestay hosts. Support them by staying in a friendly homestay for as little as 200 PHP ($4) per night. Trek to the hills and savour breathtaking panoramic views of the sea, nearby islets and grassy rolling hills. At low tide, a tail-shaped sandbar at Kawit Beach is visible, made of fine white sand and surrounded by vibrant blue water. A journey to this side in the Philippines kills two birds with one stone. Since the fishing trade is still thriving, tourists can savour freshly caught seafood, cooked by the locals.

Getting to Mararison Island: Catch a bus bound to Culasi from Kalibo or Caticlan costing around 120 PHP ($2.50). From Culasi Port, hire a boat for around 750 PHP ($15). The journey takes around 15 minutes. Entry submitted by Dee from How She Wanders .

16. Boracay – best for nightlife

Boracay may once have been an unexplored island but that day is long gone. The sandy paradise receives huge volumes of Western and Asian tourists and is a popular place for Filipinos to spend their holidays. After Boracay was temporarily closed due to over-tourism in 2018, many travellers and locals turn their noses up at the idea of visiting. I decided to form my own opinions and go anyway.

If you’re looking for a peaceful spot, admittedly this won’t be the best island in the Philippines for you. However, if you’re looking to make new friends, let your hair down and enjoy the nightlife, GO. I met some fantastic people at  Frendz  Hostel and spent a week hitting up the beach bars and clubs. Be sure to head to quieter Puka Beach and watch sunset at open-air Spider Bar. Getting to Boracay: Catch a ferry from Caticlan or Kalibo. Although Caticlan is closer, the flights in and out are more expensive. The cheaper option is flying into Kalibo and purchasing a bus and boat combo ticket to Boracay via Caticlan Jetty Port.

17. Siargao – best island in the Philippines for surfing

Siargao, aptly known as the ‘Surfing Capital of the Philippines’, is a stunning island in the Surigao del Norte province that abounds with excellent surf spots. In fact, it’s credited with introducing the sport to the Philippines. Not only is it a haven for surfers, but there’s a myriad of activities and tourist destinations . Soak up breathtaking scenery, including thousands of palm trees, from the Coconut Viewpoint on the North to South Road. Next, stop by the rock pools and Tayangban Cave Pool where crystal clear blue waters await. For a less crowded beach, unwind at Pacifico Beach on the east coast. This is a great surfing spot for the pros, but also suited to those wanting to simply relax. Don’t miss the chance to hop on a guided mangrove tour. Usually combined with the Sugba Lagoon tour, you’ll sail through one of the largest mangrove forests in the country. Getting to Siargao: Fly straight to the local airport from Manila or Cebu. Once here, consider renting a moped which is the best way to get around, or even a tuk-tuk, which you can drive yourself. Siargao Island entry submitted by Cazzy from Dream Big Travel Far .

18. Calaguas Island

The appeal of Calaguas is its natural beauty. It’s one of the best islands in the Philippines for travellers wishing to escape commercialised, touristic hotspots. But, of course, things are slowly changing. The island is mostly free from development and the majority of visitors will sleep in a tent. However, the handful of modest huts scattered along the beachfront seem to increase each year as the island grows in popularity. So the first point I would make to anyone considering visiting Calaguas is to go as soon as you can! The island’s activities are limited to swimming, snorkelling, beach volleyball, sandboarding and throwing a frisbee around. There isn’t much to do except sit back and take in your surroundings. Is that a bad thing? Certainly not!

Aside from a couple of generators that tour guides operate, there’s no electricity at night. This means there’s little to do except have a few drinks on the beach, or read a book if you bring a reading light.  It’s best to let a tour operator handle everything for you. They’re fairly cheap and will arrange tents, food and boat travel to and from Daet for around $50-$70. Getting to Calaguas: Take a 2-hour boat from the town of Daet. Fly into Bagasbas Airport from Manila, Cebu and other hubs. Calaguas entry submitted by James from The Slow Traveler .

Beaches are what you picture when visualising beautiful islands in the Philippines but don’t let that deter you from visiting Luzon. The biggest Filipino island (population 53 million) is home to the capital, Manila, and various other points of interest. Board a bus from Manila to Banaue Rice Terraces (dubbed the eighth wonder of the world), hike volcanos in Tagaytay, explore the mountain town of Baguio, marvel at the hanging coffins of Sagada, climb sand dunes in La Paz and visit colonial town, Vigan, preserved as it was during Spanish rule. These are just a few of the many attractions of Luzon . Rolling countryside, hiking opportunities and hospitable local villages make the island a captivating alternative to snorkelling and sunbathing.

Samal Island is one of the Philippines’ best-kept secrets. Located just south of Davao near the Philippines’ Mindanao Island, Samal’s natural beauty matches the country’s most popular destinations – sans the crowds. The main attractions include Hagimit Falls, a terrace-like waterfall where visitors can swim (under the supervision of locals) and Monfort Bat Sanctuary, home to the world’s largest colony of Geoffroy’s Rousette fruit bats.

Enjoy a motorbike ride across the steep hills and through dense tropical rainforests, soaking up stunning hilltop views of the island. Afterward, lie back at one of the island’s many resorts and enjoy the warm water and clean white sand beaches. How to get to Samal Island: Take a 45-minute ferry ride. Depending on the tides, this ride may be bumpy (and hence adventurous). There are some public ferries to the island but visitors booked in a resort usually have private transfers to the island included in their package. There are plenty of resorts across all price ranges on Samal making the island perfect for both budget and luxury retreats.  Samal entry submitted by Arabella from Spicy Travel Girl .

Thanks for reading!

Read my other posts about the Philippines:

• Diving with sharks on Malapascua island
• Malapascua and Kalanggaman islands
• Doing the Jailhouse rock: my time at the Filipino dancing jail
• Siquijor: the Filipino island that will leave you spellbound
• AND my complete Southeast Asia bucket list and how to spend 3 months in Southeast Asia

See you next time for more adventures,

Ps. Liked these beautiful islands in the Philippines? Pin this for later!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

3 thoughts on “ The 20 Best Islands In The Philippines For Every Type of Traveller ”

I only heard of two of the islands you’ve mentionned so I’m glad I found your post! The Philippines sounds amazing right now, especially since it’s winter time in Europe.

Thanks Kelly! Glad you liked it – out of interest, which were the two you heard of?

Hello! I’m glad I found your island list of Philippines. My family and I are going back there this May and have not been back there for over 10 years + So seeing this list of yours gave me some ideas on where to go. Thinking about flying into Boracay Island and wanted to know if you really have to stay at one of the hotels there or if an Airbnb will do? While I was searching for flights from Manila to Boracay it gives me a warning that I will have to show proof I am staying at a accredited hotel and just wanted to know if this was a problem for you. Please let me know thank you.

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22 Best Island-Hopping Destinations in the Philippines

22. Tawi-Tawi

21. port barton, palawan, 20. tres reyes islands, marinduque, 19. palaui island, 18. romblon, 17. dinagat islands, 16. once islas, zamboanga city, 15. bulalacao, oriental mindoro, 14. camiguin island, 13. mactan, cebu, 12. samal island, davao del norte, 11. pundaquit, zambales, 10. moalboal, cebu, 9. caramoan, 8. hundred islands, pangasinan, 7. puerto princesa, palawan, 4. coron, palawan, 3. siargao island, 2. islas de gigantes, iloilo, 1. el nido, palawan, discover the islands of the philippines.

The Philippines is dubbed an ultimate summer destination because of its many natural wonders that feature crystal clear water in varying shades of blue to powder white sandy shores surrounded by towering limestones and formations.

• Find the best Philippines island hopping tours  
• Read our article on travel insurance in the Philippines

With more than 7,000 islands in the Philippine archipelago, you can never run out of places and Philippine tours to include in your travel bucket list. Here are 22 of the best destinations if you want to experience island hopping in the Philippines. 

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Included in the top Tawi Tawi tourist spots  is the popular Panampangan Island where you can see the longest sandbar in the Philippines. 

• Check this Tawi-Tawi tour to Bud Bongao, Boloboc Cave, and Badjao Village
• Book this Sanga-Sanga Airport to hotel transfer

You can also travel around and savor your holiday break at Sangay Siapo Island, Simunul Island and Bud Bongao Peak. Come for the seafood, the welcoming ambiance, and the people. The experience may just surprise you.

• Browse Palawan island hopping tours  for your Port Barton vacation
• Check out things to do in San Vicente Palawan
• Read our article on Port Barton resorts
• See our San Vicente tours

Dramatic cliffs at Inaladelan Island, lively and colorful reefs at Exotic Island and jaw-dropping sandbars at Star Fish Island – these are just some of the many reasons you will completely love this paradise.

See our popular Port Barton Tours

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Marinduque, a heart-shaped island situated north of Romblon and east of Mindoro is most commonly known for the Moriones Festival. Tourists both local and international celebrate this vibrant fiesta.

• Check Marinduque tours that you can add to your itinerary

As time goes by, people discover that there’s a lot more to Marinduque. It’s also a perfect place for a spur-of-the-moment beach trip with your family or friends since you can easily reach it via bus and ferry. It's also host to several Marinduque tourist spots .

Book a Marinduque tour and be blown away when you visit Gaspar, Melchor and Baltazar collectively known as the Tres Reyes Islands. Its soft sand, blue water and teeming marine life can surely turn your island dream come true.

See our popular Marinduque Tours and Activities

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• Find experiences in Cagayan Valley for your trip to Palaui

It’s also possibly the reason why it was chosen as a shooting location of the hit tv series Survivor. There’s just something special about discovering such raw beauty when you see places like Anguib Beach, Crocodile Island, Punta Verde, and Cape Engano Lighthouse on a Palaui Island tour. 

Amazing ocean view, pure white sand beaches and a relaxing tropical vibe are just some of the reasons you should totally include this island in your upcoming holiday destination.

See our popular Cagayan Valley Tours and Activities

2-day adventure tour to quirino province watersports complex, landingan viewpoint, falls & caves.

Apart from being a place where you can chill and relax all day, it also is a perfect destination to do island hopping. With the untouched natural resources that surround it, you can simply hop on a boat and witness the magic of Romblon. 

• Book a ferry to Romblon

There are plenty of Romblon tourist spots waiting for you here. Stroll in the famous long sandbar of BonBon Beach, visit the turtle sanctuary in Agpanabat Turtle Sanctuary, soak in the calm water of Tiamban Beach and witness the impressive rock formations in Tinagong Dagat. These are just some of the spots you'll visit when you try the best island hopping Romblon has to offer.

Tucked away in the southern part of Mindanao, Dinagat island is still yet to be discovered. It’s that type of place that transports you to an ambiance of calmness and serenity; away from the hustle and bustle of the city life.

Its primary island attractions included in Dinagat island hopping are the islands of Biray-biray, Cab-ilan, and Bita-og. The jaw dropping beachscape in these places along with the bountiful coconut trees and its fine white sand hold a promise of a vacation worth remembering.

Once Islas has been recently introduced as Zamboanga ’s newest eco-tourism attraction. It exhibits the marvelous 11 islands along the Moro Gulf, found in barangays of Panubigan and Dita in Zamboanga del Sur.

• Find the best Zamboanga tours for your trip 

Your beach escapades consist of exploring the islands of Bisaya-Bisaya, Sirommon, Baung-Baung and Buh-Buh. 

With lots of coconuts trees along the shoreline, its deep blue water, and scenic views,  Once Islas Zamboanga gives you another island paradise to tick off your must-visit destination list. While in Zamboanga, you can also add nearby Pink Sand Beach Zamboanga and  Malamawi Beach  to your Zamboanga City itinerary .

See our popular Zamboanga Tours and Activities

Zamboanga city private historical day tour with transfers, private dapitan & dipolog city tour with lunch | rizal shrine, cogon eco park, demo farm, sta cruz, dipolog nature adventure tour with lunch & transfers | sunkilaw falls & cogon eco tourism park.

Unlike other popular islands in the Philippines, tourism in Bulalacao is relatively new. As more tourists discover its hidden splendor, Bulalacao is deemed to be a rising star in Mindoro travel. 

Having said that, this tropical destination is the perfect place to be for those looking for a quality time with nature away from the frolicking crowd. 

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Its peaceful ambiance that still celebrates the traditional province life adds more to its charisma. Be amazed as you visit some of Bulalacao’s untapped islands like Aslom, Target, Tambaron and Suguicay islands.

Spending a day or two at this island gives you a chance to witness nothing but nature’s magnificence. It’s usually a side trip for travelers visiting nearby Cagayan de Oro. 

• Check out our Camiguin travel guide
• Book Camiguin tours

This place is a combination of everything that you’re looking for in a vacation – white sand beaches, waterfalls, volcanoes, and good food. 

• Cagayan de Oro whitewater rafting package
• Cagayan de Oro city tour
• Seven Seas Waterpark Cagayan de Oro day pass with transfers
• Cagayan De Oro Sinulom Falls & Bolao Cold Spring tour
• Book a  Cagayan de Oro airport transfer

Don’t pass up the opportunity to explore some of the Camiguin tourist spots like the White Beach Sandbar, Mantigue Island, Ardent Hot Springs, Tuasan Falls, Burias Shoals, White Island, and Giant Clam Nursery at Kaliba Beach. Some of these are already included in a Camiguin White Island tour package.

• Check Cebu island hopping tours for your trip to Mactan Island
• Read our article on the best resorts in Cebu
• Check out the best Cebu restaurants and Cebu halal food joints

With plenty of beaches in Cebu surrounding it, you can relax on the beach, walk along the shoreline or windsurf if you’re feeling more adventurous. You can also visit nearby Cebu tourist spots  after completing your Mactan island hopping itinerary . You can never run out of reasons to love Mactan Island , that’s for sure.

See our popular Cebu Vacation Packages

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• Browse Davao tours that will take you to Samal Island
• Check out the best Samal Island resorts
• Book this Davao island-hopping tour
• Check out this Samal Island tour

Treat yourself to an island hopping tour in Samal in your Davao to Samal itinerary and visit Talicud Island where you can revel in the beauty of Isla Reta Beach Resort, Wishing Island, Giant Clam Sanctuary and pass by the renowned Pearl Farm Resort for a quick sight-seeing. Indeed, Samal Island is where your well-deserved vacation awaits.

With many Davao tourist spots , the region is also one of the  best places in the Philippines for family vacation , so feel free to bring them along on your trip. Davao is also one of the halal destinations in the Philippines.

• Check out our list of the best Zambales beach resorts
• Read up on the top Zambales tourist spots

If you’re looking for a serene and relaxing trip to recharge, reflect and ease your mind, you’ve found your next destination. Pundaquit island still has that province-like ambiance to it that gives you that much-needed break from it all. 

• Read our guide on diving in Malapascua

Let your mermaid dream come true in islands such as Pescador Island and Panagsama Beach as you swim through sardine runs and spend time underwater with sea turtles, beautiful corals, and schools of colorful fishes. For a hassle-free trip to Moalboal and the rest of Cebu, book Cebu tour packages , Moalboal island hopping tours , and other Cebu tours .

See our popular Moalboal Tours and Activities

Private whale shark watching & island hopping tour in cebu province with lunch & transfers, cebu city, lapu-lapu or mandaue to or from moalboal transfer.

A paradise offering the richness of the ocean blue water, pretty sandbars, and untouched islands, Caramoan will let you taste a slice of heaven on earth.

Blessed with nature’s gift, Caramoan will captivate you with some of its charming islands. Each one has its own attraction that will keep you asking for more. Snorkel and swim with the colorful underwater marine life in Cagbalinad Island. 

Beach your way ala “Survivor” in Hunongan Cove and uncover several hidden lagoons and lakes in Matukad Island. You can also include Lahos Island and Tayak Lake in your Caramoan day tour package to complete your ultimate island-hopping trip in Caramoan.

See our popular Bicol Tours and Activities

Albay best views of mayon sightseeing & culture tour with snacks & transfers from legazpi, bicol international airport to or from legazpi city | legazpi albay transfers (drp), albay mayon atv black lava trail 2-3 hr adventure ride | 6km from volcano crater & exclusive trails.

• Check Pangasinan tours that include Hundred Islands adventures

Some of the most popular islands include Quezon Island, Governor’s Island, Marcos Island and Children’s Island.

No matter what your adventurous hearts yearn for, Hundred Islands got you covered. Trek to the peak of the cliff in Governor’s island to see a stunning view of the park. 

Visit the Lady of Manaoag Church or spend the night camping – there are all sorts of activities here that will surely make your visit worthwhile.

See our popular Hundred Islands Tours

Breathtaking 2-day pangasinan hundred islands shared tour from manila with hotel & nature trip, pangasinan hundred islands day tour with lunch & transfers.

• See our recommended Puerto Princesa accommodations

See our popular Honda Bay Island Hopping Tours

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• Find the best Boracay island hopping packages  for your getaway
• Check out our list of the best Boracay resorts

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing kind of holiday where you get to spend unlimited beach time or a holiday to satisfy the adrenaline junkie in you, Boracay island hopping is a must-do for all travelers. 

There’s no better way to fill your Boracay itinerary than to swim to your heart’s content in Puka Beach, snorkel at Crocodile Island, unleash your extreme side by cliff jumping at Magic Island as part of Boracay tours , or explore underwater by taking part in a Boracay helmet diving activity. One thing is for sure: you won't run out of things to do in Boracay .

• Book your vacation at Crimson Resort and Spa Boracay  or find other Boracay tour packages

End the day with a spectacular sunset cruise as you enjoy the beauty of Boracay shores. For some, it’s the view that makes them keep coming back to Boracay. But for others, it’s the experience on this beautiful island that leaves a mark on them.

See our popular Boracay Island Hopping Tours

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• Check Bohol island hopping tours you can join 
• Read our article on the best resorts in Bohol

Snorkel your way down the clear water to witness the wide array of sea creatures and wildlife in the area. You can even feed the fishes as you marvel at the mirror-like water that serves as your window to the teeming underwater life in Bohol.

The most exciting part is that you get to watch and swim with the dolphins of Bohol in Panglao island. That’s totally an experience of a lifetime that you can enjoy on your trip to one of the top tourist spots in Visayas .

See our popular Bohol Vacation Packages

Budget-friendly 3-day vacation package to mithi resort in bohol island from manila city, 4-day premier bohol beach club resort package with breakfast & airport transfers.

• Browse Coron Palawan island hopping tours for your trip
• Check out our list of the best resorts in Coron
• Read our guide on diving in Coron

Island hopping in Coron will give you a grand perspective of the magnificent limestone formations and the depth of the blue-green water in the lagoons. Along with other Coron Palawan tourist spots , t's a must for your Coron Palawan itinerary . 

With a fair variety of both inhabited and uninhabited islands, you should not miss out on seeing some of Coron’s pride by venturing out on an ultimate island-hopping tour which includes destinations and Palawan beaches like Kayangan Lake, Barracuda Lake, Twin Lagoons, Skeleton Wreck, and Coral Garden. Coron is also one of the best diving spots in the Philippines , so make the most of your visit by going on a diving tour.

Put on that swimming gear and be ready to fall deeply in love with the mesmerizing beauty of Coron. Book one of the many Coron tour packages  and Coron tours for a fuss-free experience.

See our popular Coron Vacation Packages

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• Find the best Siargao island hopping tour packages  for your island getaway
• Check out our list of the best resorts in Siargao

There’s something about Siargao. Its tropical island vibe brought about by the people’s warmth and the place’s natural charm can easily make your trip truly unforgettable. For a more relaxing trip, book any of the Siargao private tours  to explore all the Siargao tourist spots . No wonder it's one of the top tourist spots in Mindanao .

The turquoise blue water of the Pacific Ocean is truly a sight to behold as you bask under the sun and have a sumptuous lunch by the beach.

See our popular Siargao Vacation Packages

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• Check out Iloilo tours that include trips to Islas de Gigantes
• Read our Iloilo travel guide for a hassle-free vacation
• Explore other islands in the Visayas region. Check out our Bacolod Iloilo Guimaras itinerary .

It is divided into 2 main big islands: Gigantes Norte and Gigantes Sur, and other amazing islets; from the Cabugao Gamay, Pulupandan, Bantigue Sandbar, and the Antonia Beach.

Apart from beach bumming, there are a lot of other activities around the island that make it totally worth a visit. This includes snorkeling, spelunking, climbing up the old lighthouse as you enjoy the amazing panoramic view of the vast sea. There is also a lot of Iloilo tourist spots that you can visit. Book a stay at one of the beach resorts in Iloilo for a relaxing trip.

See our popular Islas de Gigantes Tours

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• Browse El Nido island hopping tours for your trip
• Read our article on the most beautiful beach resorts in the Philippines
• Check out our list of the  best resorts in El Nido

It serves as a gateway to the beauty that is Bacuit Archipelago. The best island hopping in the Philippines will give satisfy your adventure-craving soul as these tours will offer you a whole day trip around the different islands in El Nido, easily filling your El Nido itinerary .

The four main tours in El Nido island hopping  used to be classified as Tour A, Tour B, Tour C, and Tour D. However, they changed it now to Premium and Regular tours. Depending on the sceneries that you want to see and activities you want to do, each tour allows you to savor what this paradise has to offer. To make your vacation more convenient, you can book El Nido tour packages  and El Nido tours  to explore other El Nido Palawan tourist spots .

See our popular El Nido Island Hopping Tours

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Why visit the Philippines ? The  geographical features of the Philippines  ensure that there are plenty of  best islands in the Philippines  for your to explore. The best beaches in the Philippines  can easily be reached by arranging  Philippines holiday packages via online trip booking .

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20 of The Most Beautiful Islands in the Philippines

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20 Most Beautiful Islands to Visit in the Philippines 

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If you plan a trip to the Philippines, you’re in for a treat. This stunning country has thousands of tropical islands, beautiful beaches, and unique cities. With so much to see and do, it can be hard to know where to start. In this article, we’ll look at 20 of the most beautiful islands in the Philippines, from El Nido to Guyam Island.

The Philippines is home to many beautiful islands. Some of the most beautiful islands in the Philippines include Palawan, Boracay, Siargao, Cebu, Bohol, El Nido, and Coron. These islands are known for their stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and natural beauty. Palawan has been voted the world’s most beautiful island and the jewel in the Philippines’ crown. Boracay is also a popular destination and has been hailed as having the best beach in the world across countless reader polls. The country has 7,641 islands to choose from, but for this article, here’s our top 20 list in no particular order:

El Nido is a municipality located on the northern tip of mainland Palawan, Philippines. It boasts stunning rock formations, pristine beaches, and clear marine waters that make every Filipino proud. It has been increasingly drawing tourists year after year, both local and foreign, which is largely responsible for why Palawan is recognized as the best island in the world.

Visitors can enjoy various activities such as swimming, snorkeling, diving, and lighthouse visits. They can also charter a small boat or join organized tour groups for a day trip, including the most famous island and lagoons, the secret beach, which is definitely not to be missed.

El Nido is a place that should be on everyone’s list of places to visit. Its beauty is breathtaking and perfect for any traveler seeking a tranquil and soothing vibe.

Boracay is a popular Philippine island known for its powdery white sand, spectacular sunsets, and vibrant nightlife. It offers a long list of activities and water sports to keep visitors entertained.

However, the beaches in Boracay are so beautiful that loads of tourists have visited the island over many years, which led to the government closing Boracay for six months in 2019 due to over-tourism. Despite this, Boracay remains a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a tropical paradise.

Batanes is a province located in the northernmost part of the Philippines. It is composed of ten islands, with only three of them being inhabited. The province is known for its unique culture, breathtaking landscapes, and well-preserved traditional houses made of stone.

Here are some of the things you can do and see in Batanes:

• Visit the traditional Ivatan houses. These houses are made of stone and cogon grass and are designed to withstand the strong winds and typhoons that frequently hit the province.
• Explore Batanes’s stunning landscapes, including rolling hills, cliffs, and beaches. Some must-visit places include Marlboro Country, Valugan Boulder Beach, and Vayang Rolling Hills.
• Learn about the Ivatan culture and traditions by visiting the local museums and cultural centers. You can also attend the “Uyugan” festival, celebrated every May to commemorate the town’s foundation.
• Try the local delicacies, such as “uvud balls” (meatballs made of banana heart), “tatus” (coconut crabs), and “vunes” (Ivatan-style tamales).

Batanes is a must-visit destination for those who want to experience the Philippines’ unique culture and stunning landscapes.

Coron is a municipality located in the northern part of the Palawan province, just like El Nido and Culion. It is known for its crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling and diving. Coron is also home to the famous Kayangan Lake , a must-visit destination. The lake is surrounded by limestone cliffs and has crystal-clear waters, which makes it perfect for swimming. You can also charter a small boat or join organized tour groups for a day trip to explore the area.

Coron has a lot of tourist spots , including stunning beaches and various water activities, such as island hopping, snorkeling, and diving. The municipality is also home to several shipwrecks and popular tourist dive sites. The shipwrecks are a result of World War II battles in the area.

Coron is the perfect destination if you’re looking for a peaceful and relaxing vacation. The municipality has a tropical yet windy weather, which makes it perfect for any type of activity. You can go swimming, snorkeling, diving, lighthouse visits, biking, and more. Coron is a paradise that should be on everyone’s list of places to visit in the Philippines.

If you are an active adventurer, Siargao is the perfect location. Strategically located along the country’s eastern coast, the island receives strong winds and currents flowing steadily from the Pacific Ocean. This gives the island solid swells, which everyone can enjoy, including the famous Cloud9. Besides surfing, Siargao is open to other activities, such as cave explorations and rock climbing.

Siargao is one of the many stunning islands in the Philippines worth visiting. With its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, it’s no wonder why Siargao is gaining more and more popularity in recent years. So, if you’re looking for a destination that offers adventure and relaxation simultaneously, Siargao should be on your list.

Kalanggaman Island

One of the most beautiful islands in the Philippines is Kalanggaman Island . It is located in the Leyte Gulf and is known for its stunning white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. The island is relatively small, with a length of only 753 meters, but it is perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway.

Here are some things you can do on Kalanggaman Island:

• Swim and snorkel in the clear blue waters
• Relax on the beach and soak up the sun
• Take a walk along the sandbar that stretches out into the sea
• Enjoy a picnic or a barbecue with friends and family

There are also a few amenities on the island, such as a small store where you can buy snacks and drinks and a few cottages to stay overnight. However, it is recommended that you bring your own food and drinks, as the prices on the island can be quite high.

Kalanggaman Island is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Philippines. Its stunning natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere make it the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the country’s tropical paradise.

Of the many beautiful places to visit in the Philippines, Siquijor is a must-see. Known as the “Island of Fire,” Siquijor is a small island located in the Central Visayas region of the country.

Siquijor is famous for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush forests. The island also has several waterfalls, caves, and historical landmarks worth exploring.

One of the most popular attractions in Siquijor is the Cambugahay Falls . This three-tiered waterfall is surrounded by lush vegetation and is a perfect spot for swimming and relaxing. Another must-visit attraction is the Balete Tree, a giant banyan tree that is said to be over 400 years old.

With its stunning natural beauty and unique cultural practices, Siquijor is a destination that should not be missed. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, this island has something for everyone.

Bantayan Island

If you’re looking for a peaceful and relaxing getaway, Bantayan Island is the perfect destination for you. Located in the Visayan Sea, this small island is known for its pristine white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and laid-back atmosphere.

Here are some things you can do on Bantayan Island:

• Beach hopping: With over 20 beaches to choose from, you can spend your days exploring the different beaches of Bantayan Island. Some famous beaches include Sugar Beach, Alice Beach, and Paradise Beach.
• Island hopping: Take a boat tour around the islands and discover hidden coves and beaches. You can visit Hilantagaan Island, Virgin Island, and Kinatarkan Island.
• Snorkeling and diving: Bantayan Island is home to a diverse marine ecosystem, making it an excellent spot for snorkeling and diving. You can see colorful corals, schools of fish, and maybe even sea turtles.
• Bike tours: Rent a bike and explore the island at your own pace. You can cycle through small villages, rice fields, and coconut groves.
• Local cuisine: Bantayan Island is known for its delicious seafood, especially its fresh oysters and scallops. You can also try local delicacies like buwad (dried fish) and lechon (roasted pig).

Bantayan Island is a hidden gem in the Philippines that offers a peaceful and authentic island experience.

Camiguin is the perfect destination if you’re looking for a peaceful and quiet place to unwind. Known as the “Island Born of Fire,” Camiguin is a small island province in the northern part of Mindanao. It’s famous for its volcanic landscapes and natural wonders.

Here are some of the things you can do in Camiguin:

• Visit the Sunken Cemetery: This unique attraction is a cemetery submerged in water after the eruption of Mt. Vulcan in 1871. Today, it’s a popular spot for snorkeling and diving.
• Take a dip in the hot springs: Camiguin has several hot springs believed to have therapeutic properties. The most popular ones are Ardent Hot Springs and Sto. Niño Cold Spring.
• Climb Mt. Hibok-Hibok: This active volcano is the highest peak in Camiguin. It’s a challenging climb, but the views from the summit are worth it.
• Explore the White Island: This small sandbar off the coast of Camiguin is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. You can rent a boat to take you there and back.

Camiguin is known for its sweet lanzones fruit, celebrated every October during the Lanzones Festival. If you plan to visit Camiguin, try this delicious fruit and experience the local culture.

Sumilon Island

One of the most beautiful islands in the Philippines is Sumilon Island. In the southeastern part of Cebu, Sumilon Island is known for its crystal-clear waters and pristine white sandy beaches. It is a perfect destination for those who want to relax and unwind.

Here are some things you can do on Sumilon Island:

• Sumilon Island is surrounded by a coral reef, which makes it a perfect spot for snorkeling. You can see various marine life, including colorful fish and sea turtles.
• The waters around Sumilon Island are calm and clear, making it perfect for swimming. You can also enjoy the shallow sandbar that stretches out from the island.
• You can also explore the nearby islands of Cebu, like Pescador Island and Siquijor Island. These islands are also known for their beautiful beaches and marine life.
• Sumilon Island has a nature trail leading to the island’s highest point. You can enjoy a panoramic view of the island and its surroundings from there.

Sumilon Island is a perfect getaway for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. With its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and serene atmosphere, you can truly relax and unwind on this island paradise.

Guyam Island

If you’re looking for a secluded paradise in the Philippines, Guyam Island is a must-visit destination. This small, uninhabited island is located just off the coast of Siargao and is known for its pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters.

The island is surrounded by coral reefs, making it a popular spot for snorkeling and diving. You can also walk around the island and explore its lush vegetation, including coconut trees and other tropical plants.

While there are no accommodations on the island, you can easily take a quick trip from Siargao to Guyam Island. Pack a picnic lunch and spend the day lounging on the beach, swimming in the clear waters, and soaking up the sun.

Guyam Island is a perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful and secluded getaway in the Philippines. With its stunning natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere, it’s no wonder why this hidden gem is becoming increasingly popular among travelers.

Hundred Islands National Park

One of the most popular tourist destinations in the Philippines is the Hundred Islands National Park. It is located in the province of Pangasinan, in the northern part of the country. The park comprises 124 small islands and islets and covers an area of 16.76 square kilometers.

The Hundred Islands National Park is a popular tourist destination because of its crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and diverse marine life. Visitors can enjoy various activities such as island hopping, snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, and fishing. The park also has several hiking trails that lead to stunning viewpoints, where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the islands and the surrounding sea.

The islands in the park are made of ancient coral reefs that have been uplifted by geological forces. The islands vary in size and shape, with some as small as a few square meters and others as large as several hectares. Some of the most popular islands in the park are Children’s Island, Governor’s Island, and Quezon Island.

The Hundred Islands National Park is also home to various flora and fauna, including several endemic species. The park is a protected area, and visitors must follow strict rules and regulations to help preserve its natural beauty.

If you plan to visit the Philippines, a trip to the Hundred Islands National Park is worth adding to your itinerary. With its stunning scenery, diverse marine life, and variety of activities, it’s no wonder why it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country.

Panglao Island

Panglao Island is the perfect destination if you’re looking for a tropical paradise. Panglao Island is a popular tourist spot in the southwestern part of Bohol, offering white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a serene atmosphere.

The island is known for its stunning beaches, such as Alona Beach, famous for its powdery white sand and clear waters. It’s a great place to go snorkeling, diving, or just lounging on the beach. You can also explore the island’s many caves and rock formations, perfect for adventurous travelers.

Panglao Island is also home to various marine life, including dolphins, sea turtles, and colorful fish. You can take a boat tour to see these creatures up close or rent a kayak and explore the island’s many coves and inlets.

If you want a more laid-back experience, you can visit the island’s many resorts and spas. These offer various services, including massages, facials, and other treatments to help you relax and unwind.

Gigantes Island

If you’re looking for a tropical paradise that is off the beaten path, Gigantes Island might just be the place for you. Located off the coast of Iloilo province, this group of islands boasts crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and stunning rock formations.

Gigantes Island comprises two main islands: Gigantes Norte and Gigantes Sur. Both islands offer a variety of activities for visitors, including island hopping, snorkeling, and beach bumming. One of the most popular attractions on the islands is the Tangke Saltwater Lagoon, a natural pool surrounded by limestone cliffs.

The islands are also known for their fresh seafood, particularly scallops. You can even take a scallop farm tour to learn more about how these delicious mollusks are harvested.

Balabac Islands

If you’re looking for a place that’s off the beaten path, then the Balabac Islands might be just what you’re looking for. Located in the southernmost part of Palawan, the Balabac Islands are a group of islands offering pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a laid-back atmosphere perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

One of the main attractions of the Balabac Islands is its marine life. The waters surrounding the islands are home to a diverse range of marine species, including sea turtles, dolphins, and even whale sharks. If you’re a fan of snorkeling or diving, then you’ll definitely want to check out the Balabac Islands.

Aside from its marine life, the Balabac Islands are known for their white sand beaches. One of the most popular beaches in the area is Candaraman Island, which boasts powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. Other famous beaches in the area include Onok Island and Punta Sebaring Beach.

If you’re interested in exploring the Balabac Islands, you’ll need to go to Rio Tuba, the jump-off point for island hopping tours. From there, you can hire a boat to take you to the different islands in the area.

If you’re looking for a tropical paradise, Malapascua is the place to be. This small island is located in the northernmost part of Cebu province and is known for its stunning white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life.

Malapascua is a popular destination for diving enthusiasts, as it is one of the few places in the world where you can see thresher sharks up close. The island is also home to numerous dive sites, such as Gato Island, Monad Shoal, and Kemod Shoal, where you can explore coral gardens and encounter a variety of marine creatures, including manta rays, sea turtles, and colorful fish.

Aside from diving, Malapascua offers other activities, such as island hopping, snorkeling, and beach bumming. You can visit nearby islands such as Carnasa and Calanggaman, known for their pristine beaches and clear waters. You can also go on a sunset cruise or enjoy a relaxing massage by the beach.

Malapascua is a laid-back destination with a small community of friendly locals and a few resorts and restaurants. The island has a rustic charm, with unpaved roads and no ATMs, so it’s best to bring enough cash for your stay.

Calaguas Island

Calaguas Island is a breathtaking destination that you must visit when exploring the Philippines. This island is located in the province of Camarines Norte, one of the country’s most beautiful and unspoiled islands. With its crystal-clear waters, powdery white sand, and lush greenery, Calaguas Island is a paradise for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts.

Here are some of the things you can do on Calaguas Island:

• The island’s waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. You can see various marine life, including colorful fish and corals.
• Calaguas Island is surrounded by other smaller islands that are equally stunning. You can take a boat tour and visit these islands.
• If you want to experience the island’s natural beauty up close, you can camp on the beach. There are camping sites available on the island.
• You can also hike and explore the island’s lush forests and hills.

Calaguas Island is a perfect destination for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse themselves in nature. So, pack your bags and head to Calaguas Island for an unforgettable adventure.

Burias Islands

If you’re looking for a quiet and relaxing getaway in the Philippines, the Burias Islands might be the perfect destination. Located in the province of Masbate, this group of islands is known for its unspoiled beaches and crystal-clear waters.

Some popular activities in the Burias Islands include island hopping, snorkeling, and diving. You can also explore the islands’ lush forests and hike to their scenic viewpoints. If you’re lucky, you might spot some local wildlife, such as monkeys and exotic birds.

One of the must-visit spots in Burias Islands is the Sombrero Island , which is named after its unique shape. This small island boasts a pristine beach and is surrounded by coral reefs, making it a great spot for snorkeling and diving.

Another popular destination in Burias Islands is Tinalisayan Island , known for its powdery white sand and turquoise waters. You can also visit the nearby rock formations, which offer stunning views of the surrounding sea.

Guimaras is an island province located in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines. It is known for its sweet mangoes, which are considered to be the best in the country. Guimaras is a small island with a lot to offer its visitors. Here are some of the things you can do and see while in Guimaras :

• Visit the Guisi Lighthouse – This lighthouse was built during the Spanish colonial period and is one of the oldest lighthouses in the country. It offers a stunning view of the sea and the surrounding islands.
• Island hopping – Guimaras has several islands worth visiting, such as Turtle Island, Natago Beach, and Ave Maria Island. You can hire a boat and explore these islands at your own pace.
• Beaches – Guimaras has several beaches perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. Alubihod Beach, Guisi Beach, and Nagarao Island Beach are famous beaches.
• Trappist Monastery – The Trappist Monastery is located in Jordan, Guimaras, and is home to a community of monks. They produce different products, such as jams, jellies, and cookies, that you can buy as souvenirs.
• Mango Plantations – Guimaras is known for its sweet mangoes, and you can visit the mango plantations to see how they are grown and harvested. You can also buy fresh mangoes and products such as dried ones and jam.

Guimaras is an excellent destination for those who want to experience the beauty of the Philippines in a more relaxed and laid-back setting. With its stunning beaches, rich history, and delicious mangoes, Guimaras is worth visiting.

Sibuyan Island

While the Philippines is home to thousands of tropical islands, Sibuyan Island stands out for its natural beauty and unique landscape. Located in the province of Romblon, Sibuyan Island is often referred to as the “Galapagos of Asia” due to its rich biodiversity and unique flora and fauna.

One of the main attractions on Sibuyan Island is Mount Guiting-Guiting, a challenging hike for experienced mountaineers that offers breathtaking views of the island and the surrounding sea. The island is also home to numerous waterfalls, including the famous Dagubdob Falls, a must-visit for nature lovers.

Sibuyan Island is also known for its marine life, with vibrant coral reefs and various fish species that attract divers and snorkelers. The island’s pristine beaches, such as Cresta de Gallo, are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.

If you’re interested in learning about the local culture, Sibuyan Island has several traditional villages where you can interact with the friendly locals and learn about their way of life. The island’s small town of Cajidiocan is also worth a visit, with its charming Spanish colonial architecture and bustling market.

Overall, Sibuyan Island is a hidden gem in the Philippines that offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience.

There are numerous beautiful places to visit in the Philippines, each with unique charm and attractions. From the stunning rock formations and pristine beaches of El Nido to the powdery white sand and vibrant nightlife of Boracay, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

For adventure seekers, the surf capital of Siargao and the cave explorations and rock climbing opportunities in Sorsogon are not to be missed. And for those looking for a tranquil and soothing vibe, the Tubbataha Reef and the chocolate hills of Bohol offer breathtaking views and unique geological formations.

No matter where you go in the Philippines, you are sure to have an unforgettable experience. So pack your bags and get ready to explore this stunning country filled with thousands of tropical islands, stunning beaches, and amazing cities.

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Written by Melo Villareal

Melo Villareal is the Online Publisher of Outoftownblog.com. He is an Accountant by profession who left the corporate world at the age of 23 to explore his beautiful country and the rest of the world. Today, Melo works as a part-time Social Media Manager for local and international clients. His full-time work focuses on discovering interesting culture, explore different cuisines and take memorable photos from local and international destinations he's visiting.

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Home » Southeast Asia » Philippines » 8 AWESOME Islands in the Philippines (2024)

8 AWESOME Islands in the Philippines (2024)

If islands are what you’re after, then you’ve come to the right place. With over 7,000 islands (no, that’s not a typo), the best islands in the Philippines will under-promise and overdeliver every time.

Although the country has a brutal history of colonization and war, its islands have remained a steadfast source of beauty and wonder. Thank God, humans don’t ruin everything, am I right?!

I don’t even know if anyone has seen all 7,000+ islands, but there are definitely a handful that rank as some of the best islands in the world.

Everywhere you look, there is out-of-this-world nature, hundreds of thousands of palm trees, rice paddies, and an insane number of smiles. I mean, people in the Philippines must do some serious cheek exercises because they are *constantly* smiling.

Whether you’re into diving, surfing, or just lounging on the beach with a cocktail in hand (me!), these 8 AWESOME islands in the Philippines need to be added to your Southeast Asia tour.

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Best Islands in the Philippines

Final thoughts on the best islands in the philippines.

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The Gatorade blue waters and the bright green palm leaves are the main reasons why the Philippines’ islands rank as some of the best in the world. It’s not because I say so; it’s just a fact.

One that is backed up by every traveler who has ever ventured to these tropical paradises, and you’ll be backing it up too—soon enough.

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1. Palawan Island

For anyone backpacking in the Philippines , Palawan Island is a must-visit. The island is the epitome of a tropical paradise, with crystal-clear blue waters, towering limestone cliffs, and lush green forests. It’s no wonder that Palawan has been named the “Best Island in the World” by various travel magazines.

• Why visit: One of the best places for island hopping and unique experiences like Puerto Princesa.
• When to visit: November to May
• How to get there: Fly direct to either Puerto Princesa or El Nido from Manila.

Pro tip: Puerto Princes might be the best destination in the Philippines for budget backpackers since it’s usually cheap!

Palawan is home to some of the most iconic island-hopping destinations in the Philippines, including El Nido and Coron . These two places alone are worth the trip to Palawan. You can island hop through crystal-clear lagoons, go kayaking through caves, or just take your towel and head down to the soft white sands.

I have to recommend Frendz Hostel El Nido if you’re staying here too. Although hostels don’t suit everyone, they have amazing private rooms too! They offer read good bang for your buck.

If you’re a nature lover, the unique wildlife found in Palawan is such a unique experience. It’s a haven for Mother Earth. The little furry Palawan bearcat might be the cutest thing I’ve ever seen.

The island is also home to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River, one of the New Seven Natural Wonders of the World. You can take a boat tour through an underground river—it’s epic!

2. Cebu Island

Cebu Island easily takes the top spot on my list of favorite islands in the Philippines. Every day was an absolute blast, and I didn’t even scratch the surface of all it has to offer. If you’re a busybody like me, then staying in Cebu will give you more than enough things to do and discover.

• Why visit: Incredible snorkeling in the bluest waters with some of the healthiest coral. You can also quite literally chase thousands of waterfalls.
• When to visit: December-May
• How to get there: Catch a fast ferry from Manila.

Whatever your  Cebu itinerary  consists of, you will be have an amazing time here. Do you know those who choose their own adventure books? That’s exactly what Cebu is like. Every morning offers something new, and you can decide what it is.

In the jungles of Cebu, you can find over 1,000 waterfalls to play in and splash in. If you want to swim with the fish, you’ll find some of the best snorkeling around the island.

You can swim with turtles and whale sharks and even watch a sardine run (it’s like a fish tornado!). And if you’re feeling extra adventurous, try canyoneering through Kawasan Falls.

3. Coron Island

If you are a fan of history and diving, I have the perfect Philippine island for you. Coron Island needs to be moved to the top of your bucket list of adventures ! Here, you’ll find multiple Japanese WWII shipwrecks that have become popular dive sites.

The sunken warships are now home to some of the most thriving, colorful coral reefs and diverse marine life.

• Why visit: Shipwreck dives!
• When to visit: April-May
• How to get there: Coron is accessible either by ferry or direct flight from Manila or El Nido.

Coron Island also has some really cool lakes and lagoons, including Kayangan Lake, which is said to have the clearest water in Asia.

And you have to check out the Twin Lagoons. It’s two lagoons that look alike (hence the name, lol) and are connected by a narrow passage. You can snorkel from one to the other, or get a lightweight kayak if you prefer to stay on top of the water.

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4. Apo Island

Apo Island is one of the smallest islands on this list, and it’s definitely the most peaceful. The island has been a part of one of the longest-lasting community-based marine protected areas in the Philippines .

This has resulted in an abundance of stunning coral and diverse marine life, making it a great option for divers and snorkelers.

• Why visit: Snorkeling and diving paradise for those who like to get off the beaten path.
• When to visit: November-June
• How to get there: Take a 45-minute ride from Dumaguete to Malatapay and wait for a boat to take you over. Be prepared to wait, though. There isn’t too much of a schedule, and sometimes it requires hitchhiking on a local’s boat. But I have faith in you!

If you’re looking to get off the beaten path and want an experience that few other travelers have, then you have to make your way to Apo.

The volcanic island is only 7km long, and there’s some serious island life here. No fancy resorts or big hotels, just the local community and a few basic places to stay.

Swimming with the sea turtles on Apo Island is a major core memory for me. You can just take your own snorkel off the coast, and BAM, you’re face-to-face with one of these giant, gentle creatures. It was one of the best days of all of my Philippine travels.

Being pretty small, it’s best to grab an Airbnb in Dumaguete and take a day trip over.

5. Siquijor Island

Siquijor may be known for its mystic and supernatural tales, but don’t let that scare you away. This island has some of the most beautiful beaches in the Philippines.

It’s smaller than other popular islands like Boracay and Palawan, allowing for an intimate Filipino backpacking experience for a few days (or weeks in my case… oops!)

• Why visit: Perfect for those who want to escape the crowds but still want the infrastructure and amenities of a more developed island.
• When to visit: November-May
• How to get there: Access it by ferry from the nearby Filipino islands of Cebu, Bohol, and Negros Oriental.

Siquijor Island is often referred to by its Spanish name, “Isla del Fuego,” or Island of Fire. It may sound intimidating, but it’s actually one of the most peaceful islands in the Philippines. Legends say it was given that name because of the abundance of fireflies lighting up the beaches every single night.

But the island shines its brightest during the day with its amazing natural wonders. Swing off the ropes at Cambugahay Falls , cliff jump at Salagdoong Beach , or visit the centuries-old Balete Tree . Staying in Siquijor is never a bad idea.

Siquijor has a huge variety of places to stay for every budget – from broke backpacker goodies to flash packer funsies. My favorite place to stay on the island is Nakabalo Guesthouse for the amazing sunsets from the infinity pool.

To get the full Siquijor experience, you have to close out the day with a sunset hang while watching the little fireflies light up the beach.

6. Bohol Island

Okay, all the Philippines is a nature lover’s playground, but it really doesn’t get much better than Bohol Island.

The island will leave your jaw on the ground with its dreamy Chocolate Hills, national parks, and the ever so creepy but cute tarsier. I mean, I’ve always been told I have big eyes, but this little guy has got some peepers on him!

If you’re visiting the Philippines in the hopes of seeing some of the most vibrant marine life in the world… you’re in luck. The diving here is UN-BLOODY-REAL.

Pro Tip:  If you wanna go  diving in Panglao , be sure to hit up Alex — he’s a LEGEND and really knows his stuff… both under AND above water. Just reach out via WhatsApp and let him know I sent you: +44 7812 648968.

Plus, there are some great beaches in Panglao for those chilled days.

• Why visit: to see unique landscapes and visit the Tarsier monkey sanctuary.
• When to visit: December to May
• How to get there: Take a flight from Manila or Cebu City to the Bohol Airport.

Bohol is one of the most diverse islands in the Philippines. Every day is filled with different landscapes, animals, and adventures.

Most people head here for the unique Chocolate Hills . Sadly, Willy Wonka does not live in the Philippines, and these are not hills made out of chocolate.

There are approximately 1,300 hills within a 20-mile patch of land that turn brown during the dry season, giving them their very misleading name but nonetheless a breathtaking sight. It was the highlight of all the epic things I did in Bohol .

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We’ve been camping on our adventures for over 10 years, so take it from us: the MSR HUBBA HUBBA is the best damn tent for adventuring…

Boracay is undoubtedly the most famous and developed island in the Philippines and is perfect for those who are craving nightlife. The small island is full of delicious restaurants, comfortable places to stay , and some hard-core beach clubs to let loose at.

Outside of the nightlife, the island is most known for its White Beach. It has powdered sugar-like sand and the clearest blue sea.

It’s a little slice of heaven, and while popular islands aren’t always my jam, Boracay is perfect for an EPIC sun-soaked break !

• Why visit: A resort island for days in the sun and nights out on the town.
• When to visit: November-April
• How to get there: To reach Boracay from Manila, you can choose between Kalibo Airport or Caticlan. Caticlan is the more convenient option, just 30 minutes away from Boracay. While flights to Kalibo are usually cheaper, it takes about 2 hours to reach Boracay.

Boracay is often included in the conversation of islands that are overrated, but I surprisingly disagree! It is definitely a resort island, and loads of tourists make their way here, but you can still find some of the most gorgeous beaches in the world.

Plus, with the number of island-hopping tours available within 30 minutes of the island, there’s no excuse not to explore beyond White Beach.

8. Siargao Island

Get totally pitted on Siargao Island. This island is home to Cloud Nine, one of the world’s best surfing spots . The waves are some of the best in all of Southeast Asia, and over the past few years, all the surf bros have caught on. It’s one of the most gnarly islands in the Philippines.

• Why visit: The epic Cloud Nine surf break, dude!
• When to visit: March – October
• How to get there: To get to Siargao Island, there are two options. You can either take a flight to Siargao airport or opt for a ferry ride from the neighboring Philippine Islands.

As most surf spots are, it’s super chill and a great place to hang out for a few days and make great friends. You can island hop, discover some massive waterfalls, and even adventure into some cave pools. Most of the island is still untouched, making it perfect for the explorer who wants to find more than what they’ve read online.

Siargao has always been a hub for surfers. But if you prefer to stay on the shore, the island is still a fantastic option. I couldn’t leave without recommending staying at Tropical Temple Siargao Resort , either – this is boogie without costing the Earth!

Don’t Forget Insurance for the Islands!

Do you need travel insurance ? ABSOLUTELY! Before you head off on the trip of a lifetime, make sure one mistake can’t ruin it all. Get that travel insurance and enjoy the trip.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

For a really long time, I left the Philippines off of my travel bucket list because I felt like the part of me that loves to discover cultures would be disappointed. But after visiting these glorious islands, my opinion has changed completely! I was blown away by the sheer beauty and diversity of each island I visited.

If you consider yourself a nature enthusiast and love to explore unique landscapes, then you’re going to absolutely thrive in the islands of the Philippines.

From the stunning limestone cliffs and turquoise lagoons in Palawan to the lively white sand beaches in Boracay , each island offers a unique experience that will leave you wanting more.

But for that one island that’s going to alter your brain chemistry, you have to travel to Cebu Island . It’s an island to get lost on and fall in love with the people, culture, and scenery.

The vibes are primo, the nature is indescribable, and the days fly by. Before you know it, you’ve been there a month, and your friends are calling, wondering when you’re coming home.

• Get set for your inevitable arrival and find out where to stay in Manila .
• Let’s get you ready for your next adventure with our backpacking Southeast Asia guide .
• Surf your little heart out as you stay in one of Siargao’s best hostels .
• Plan your adventures with our useful (and expertly crafted) El Nido itinerary .
• If you’re heading to the Philippines, you should bring a good travel drone – trust me.
• Why not treat yourself to a nice Airbnb in Cebu ? You deserve it.

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• Philippines
• The 21 Most Beautiful Islands...

The Most Beautiful Islands in the Philippines

Talk about a needle in a haystack. With a bewildering 7,641 islands to choose from – including two that are often dubbed best island in the world – you’ll only have time to visit the greatest on a trip to the Philippines . Read on for the Philippine islands that you need to know about – rich in nature, culture and adventure.

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Matinloc Island, Palawan

Located in Bacuit Bay , off Palawan Island’s northerly El Nido region, Matinloc Island is home to some of the area’s most famous tourist attractions: Matinloc Shrine, a Virgin Mary church left eerily abandoned in a tropical cove; Secret Beach, only accessible by boat; and Hidden Beach, where craggy slate-grey rocks form a white-sand sheltered bay that backs onto rainforest. The covert beaches are concealed by limestone formations and the Matinloc shrine offers some of the best panoramic views in the area.

Miniloc Island, Palawan

Get ready for more imposing scenery that could have come right out of the Jurassic Park opening sequence. Just like Matinloc, Miniloc Island is not to be missed on your El Nido trip, but while Matinloc is known for its obscure beaches, Miniloc is renowned for its breathtaking aquamarine lagoons: the Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, and Secret Lagoon. Here, visitors can explore the area’s unique ecosystems aboard kayaks which are available for rent on site. You can paddle out or charter a boat to its neighbouring islands, such as Shimizu. The water is ideal for snorkelling, and you’ll also find diving opportunities.

Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte

Growing in popularity in the past few years, Siargao is known as the surfing capital of the Philippines. Surfers from all over the world visit to catch the perfect Cloud 9 swell. While it has long been a surfer’s paradise, regular beach lovers and vacationers are slowly discovering Siargao’s inland charms. Exploring this laidback island and its neighbours, you’ll find cool waterfalls to stand under, smooth limestone gullies to walk in and warm cave pools surrounded by tree-root smothered boulders. It’s a largely untouched landscape with an undeniable natural beauty; some are even calling it “the new Palawan”.

Boracay, Aklan

Just like Palawan, Boracay has enjoyed the title world’s best island for its powdery, white-sand beaches and glorious sunset views. It has long attracted travellers from all over the world, and as such has taken some wear and tear through the years. Because of massive commercialisation, the island is oversaturated with establishments and structures and is often crowded with more people than it can handle. Sewage and waste problems are also beginning to worsen. In 2018, the Philippine president ordered a six-month closure of the island, to allow its rehabilitation. This was the beginning of Boracay’s restoration to its former glory.

Calaguas, Camarines Norte

Strictly speaking, Calaguas is a group of islands, east of Manila in the province of Camarines Norte. While a handful of islands make up the area, Tinaga is the best known and most frequented for its pristine 3km (2mi) stretch called Mahabang Buhangin. Not nearly as distinguished as Boracay or Palawan , the islands of Calaguas remain unadulterated. Fancy accommodations are also not an option in Mahabang Buhangin, so it has become a popular camping ground for the adventurous islander. Surrounding rolling terrain and hiking trails also present a more active alternative to lying on the beach.

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Matukad Island, Camarines Sur

Once hidden jewels, the islands around the Caramoan peninsula in Camarines Sur were brought into the limelight after being featured on several seasons of the long-running reality competition, Survivor. The show’s typical setting is remote and isolated, a look very much had by the Caramoan islands. One of these islands is Matukad, which boasts a gorgeous fine-sand beach, lush forest backdrop and hidden lagoon. The lagoon is obscured by a tall limestone cliff, that, when climbed, presents a superb view of the natural pool below. The waters are calm and clear, perfect for swimming, but pack some courage for the climb as the rock wall is steep and jagged, which many contend is also worth the view.

Lahos Island, Camarines Sur

Another impressive Caramoan island is Lahos. A striking image, the island is characterized by two major rock formations opposite each other, allowing a small beach to stretch between them, creating shorelines on either end of the island. This untainted piece of paradise makes for a great place to simply lay back and bask in its raw beauty. It also goes without saying that Lahos is a perfect location for stunning new photos to add to your social media feeds.

White Island, Camiguin

This bare island just off the coast of Camiguin’s capital is a favourite for more than just its accessibility. More a sandbar than an island, it is free of any trees or structures, save for a meagre shack that sells snacks and rents out umbrellas. What surrounds it, however, are exquisite views of the horizon and Mt Hibok-Hibok on the province’s main island. Because there is not much shade, it’s best to come early in the morning or late into the afternoon to avoid the day’s scorching hours. Try to chance upon either sunrise or sunset for an even more remarkable scene.

Pamalican Island, Palawan

For the epitome of a luxurious tropical escape, head to the island of Pamalican in Palawan – aboard no less than a private plane, of course. This island northeast of mainland Palawan is home to the exclusive Amanpulo Resort by Aman Resorts International. A visit guarantees top-notch, highly-personalized service from the resort’s experienced team and staff, plus an island experience that will feel curated just for you. While the resort boasts the finest amenities and service, the natural features of the island – from its immaculate shoreline to the vibrant marine life beneath the surface – takes the Pamalican experience above and beyond.

Kalanggaman Island, Leyte

While the luxurious island of Pamalican may sound divine, a trip here does end with quite the hefty bill. For those seeking out a tropical escape with a more feasible price tag, the country has a remarkable lineup of undeveloped virgin islands, too. One of these is Kalanggaman in Leyte. While the island itself isn’t all that large, two dazzling sandbars extend into the sea on either side. There are no hotels on the island, nor is there electricity – two enticing features to campers. There are basic facilities however, such as toilets and cottages for rent, so choosing to spend the night wouldn’t be too rough. Kalanggaman might not be the easiest to get to but its picturesque sandbar alone makes it a must for anyone travelling around the Visayas.

Apo Island, Negros Oriental

Apo is a unique one on the list because perhaps even more famous than the island itself are its surrounding waters. A protected marine reserve, the waters around Apo Island hold magnificent coral gardens and bustling marine life. Turtle sightings are especially commonplace even close to shore, making it an exciting site for both snorkelling and diving. There are also accommodation options on the island for those who want more time exploring its marine reserve than a day trip allows.

Malapascua Island, Cebu

Like Apo, the island of Malapascua, north of mainland Cebu , is also famous for its excellent dive sites. As Apo boasts regular turtle sightings, Malapascua boasts that of majestic manta rays and thresher sharks. And while this island’s allure extends far beyond its coast, its beaches don’t make coming back to shore seem too bad either. Peaceful beaches like Guimbitayan and Langob are inviting havens after long days out at sea.

Malcapuya Island, Palawan

With El Nido and Coron crowning the island province, northern Palawan is any beach lover’s utopia . Another of its islands worth a trip is Malcapuya, sitting between the municipalities of Coron and Culion. As you approach, it won’t seem like much but, as you’ll quickly find out, it’s only because you’ll be docking at its backside. This gives its exquisite powdery white sand beach unobstructed views and keeps its shores swimmer-friendly and free of boats. Not only does this island have an immaculate, virgin beach, but its clear waters are also great for snorkelling. Interesting rock formations adorn one end, while the other has a viewing point from which to revel in all its natural beauty.

Mantigue Island, Camiguin

Mantigue Island, also known as Magsaysay Island, sits just off the eastern coast of Camiguin. It’s usually much less crowded than the accessible White Island and offers more activity than the picturesque bare sandbar. More than just a beautiful beach, the island is rich in vegetation and even has a little forest trail for visitors to explore. It is also known for its marine sanctuary, a fantastic spot to do some diving or snorkelling.

Palaui Island, Cagayan Valley

The famous TV franchise Survivor set four seasons of the show in the Philippines. The first two were filmed in Caramoan, with the other two in remote Palaui. Located in the north of the country, off the coast of Luzon , Palaui is an adventurer’s playground. Because of distance, it isn’t frequented by most travellers, which also keeps the island’s rustic character intact. In and around lush terrain are beaches, mangrove forests, hiking trails and waterfalls to explore. The island also houses a historic lighthouse from the Spanish occupation which is now considered a national cultural treasure. Its lone residential village of Punta Verde serves as a camping ground for visitors who wish to rough it out and stay a while.

Batan Island, Batanes

Among the most distinctly captivating destinations in the Philippines is the archipelagic province of Batanes at its northernmost end. While there are innumerable pristine beaches in the country, there is nothing quite like the verdant rolling landscapes of Batanes. For this, many tag the province the New Zealand of the Philippines. Of the 10 islands that make up the province, three are inhabited: Sabtang, Itbayat, and Batan. A tour around Batan will lead to breathtaking sights such as the Valugan boulder beach (a pleasant change of scene from the typical Philippine sand beaches), Homoron Blue Lagoon and Racuh A Payaman, more popularly known as ‘Marlboro Country’. The views are surreal in every direction, from animals peacefully grazing on lavish pastures to the bold blue hues of the sea and sky.

Sabtang Island, Batanes

Journey an hour southwest of Batan and you reach the island of Sabtang. Here, Batanes showcases even more masterpieces of nature, like the Chamantad-Tinyan Viewpoint and Nakabuang stone arch on Morong Beach. But an impressive man-made treasure that also renders this island worth a visit is the traditional Ivatan house, built to withstand the tempestuous weather the province sees, due to its geographic location. Made of limestone and coral walls and thatched cogon grass roofs, these sturdy houses line the local villages of Savidug and Chavayan, which are wonders to stroll through.

Cresta de Gallo Island, Romblon

Near the centre of the Philippine archipelago is a small untouched paradise that still flies below the tourist radar, leaving it in its pure, spotless state. It also helps that it isn’t the easiest to get to and that there is virtually nothing on the island except for whatever nature bestowed. Anyone who decides to make the trip must have all necessities in tow, from water and food to camping gear. But for the trouble, they’ll also very likely have this precious island all to themselves.

Camiguin Island

The island province of Camiguin is another one of the country’s more underrated tourist destinations. While nearby White Island and Mantigue Island are great spots, mainland Camiguin is not to be overlooked. Majestic waterfalls, hot and cold springs, volcanoes and the famous sunken cemetery – this island presents a long list of sights and activities to fill out an exciting itinerary. And while travellers would come in more moderate numbers in the past, the province is currently working on expanding and promoting their tourism industry, so an influx of visitors is expected in the near future.

Siquijor Island

Just east of Camiguin is the mystical island of Siquijor. Despite being wrapped in folklore and tales of witchcraft, this island is much more than its age-old legends. White sand beaches and marine sanctuaries with splendid diving spots abound but the star of the island is Cambugahay Falls, a series of gently cascading waterfalls that form a number of enchanting turquoise pools. Surrounded by lush green rainforest and dotted with wooden rafts, it looks like it could have been designed for a luxury waterpark – we’re talking honeymoon-photos gorgeous. Of course, Cambugahay Falls is popular, so for a quieter and more rugged waterfall to wallow in, try Lugnason Falls which is usually much less crowded.

Islas de Gigantes, Iloilo

And finally, rounding off this list are a group of lesser known islands in the province of Iloilo. Collectively known as Islas de Gigantes, some 10 islands sit unspoilt and uncrowded at the country’s centre. A basic tour around the islands makes stops at Cabugao Gamay, a picture-perfect islet with a vegetated rock hill at one end and a prime viewing point over Bantigue Island, Bakwitan Cave and Antonia Beach at the other. Seafood , especially scallops, are also abundant, so seafood lovers can feast to their heart’s content. This is one for your list of places to hurry to before it’s reached by commercial development.

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Best Philippines Islands: Which is the perfect island getaway for you?

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Philippines islands are famous for white sandy beaches and clear, jewel-toned water. But there is much more than just beaches and turquoise water. The Philippines islands also offer amazing opportunities for diving and surfing adventures, jungle and cultural experiences, island hopping, authentic, local experiences, and meeting friendly local people. But we want to let you know about the best Philippines islands.

The larger Philippines islands have better infrastructure and more amenities suited for couples and families. There are smaller less-touristy islands if you want the true experience of getting-away-from-it-all. In other words, there is a perfect Philippines island waiting for you. According to travel bloggers who have been there, here is a roundup of some of the best islands in the Philippines.

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Best Philippines islands for white sand beaches and turquoise water

The gemstone-blue water of Boracay’s  White Beach  has consistently helped the island to rank as one of the best places to visit in the Philippines, and it’s considered by many to be the best Philippines island. Restaurants line every corner, and there are endless activities for travelers of all ages. The entire island spans just seven kilometers, so it’s possible to fully explore it on foot in a single day. Everything is within walking distance, and a short trek to the top of  Mount Luho  will reveal a panoramic view of the entire island and all its beaches.

Each beach caters to a different type of crowd. You can collect seashells on Puka Beach, relax on Diniwid Beach, kite surf on Bulabog, or snorkel on Tambisaan. There’s even a handful of hidden beaches. On my favourite of all of them, you can have dinner on a disappearing beach that only reveals itself during low tide each day. 

Most tourists don’t stray too far from White Beach, however, because it has the most vibrant entertainment and biggest selection of things to do. You can even take mermaid lessons! At night-time, the beach comes alive with fire dancers, evening sailboat tours, and some of the most beautiful sunsets in the world.

Most meals cost the equivalent of $2 to $5 USD, so I highly recommend tasting street food and experiencing authentic Filipino dishes. Skewered chicken is especially popular, and Mang Inasal serves the best Spicy Paa that you’ll find on the island. The flame-grilled chicken thigh comes with a side of rice, soy sauce, chili, and a small citrus fruit called a kalamansi. It’s delicious! 

I also recommend the yummy fresh fruit smoothies of Jonah’s Fruit shake. The famous hotspot can be found on White Beach Station 1. If you’re looking for one of the best islands to visit in the Philippines, you won’t be disappointed by Boracay. Check out my guide to the  best things to do in Boracay .

Contributed by Jillian. Follow her on Adventure Dragon

Bantayan Island is an underrated beach haven in Cebu that has a truly relaxing vibe. This is the perfect place to lounge on the beach and just leave your troubles behind. During a short trip to this tropical paradise, we were able to enjoy some of the best beaches in the Philippines with stretches of white sand and crystal clear waters. Bantayan is easy to reach through a ferry or even a private boat from Hagnaya port, only an hour away from Cebu City. 

Aside from the lovely shores of Bantayan, you will also enjoy the unique ways to go around the island. Tourists and locals use the  habal-habal , a motorbike taxi that can be hired to go to any point in Bantayan Island. You can also ride a  trisikad in Bantayan, which is the local version of a pedicab. Jeepneys are commonly used by locals and adventurous foreigners are also encouraged to try and navigate the island through this iconic Philippine vehicle.

Accommodation options for all types of travelers abound in Bantayan Island. There are guest houses and hotels that offer spaces for the equivalent of $10-20 USD, more or less, while mid-range rooms can be afforded at around $35 USD. Luxury accommodations are available for as low as $55 USD in Bantayan Island.

Upon figuring out how you want to go around Bantayan Island and settling in your hotel room, it’s time for some exploring. Santa Fe has Ogtong Cave, an underground wonder of nature that can be visited for less than the equivalent of $3 USD. There are also fishing villages where you can go around to taste some local seafood. Dried fish and dried squid are a local delicacy you shouldn’t miss out on. There are many  things to do in Bantayan Island , for sure, but if you need a change of scenery, you can take a day trip to another gorgeous spot called Virgin Island for less than the equivalent of $10 USD.

Contributed by Ruben & Rachel. Follow them on Gamin Traveler

Kalanggaman

The tiny speck of land called  Kalanggaman Island  belongs to Leyte province. It’s so small you can take a circular walk along its shores in less than 30 minutes. The sand is pristine white, the water beautifully clear and turquoise, and large coconut palm trees line the perfect beaches. Kalanggaman is truly a paradise and inarguably one of the most beautiful places I’ve seen in the Philippines. 

The main long sandbar is where waves from opposite directions crash into each other. It’s one of the best photo spots on the whole island. Swimming in that part of the island is not recommended, as the currents are too strong.

Activities on the island are quite limited due to its size and lack of facilities. If you’d like to do any extra activities, such as snorkeling or diving, have your own gear or arrange it already in the visitor center in Palompon. It’s also right there in Palompon where you can arrange a boat transfer to Kalanggaman Island. It’s recommended that you bring your own food and plenty of water. You also have to collect your own trash and bring it back to Palompon.

The number of visitors allowed per day on Kalanggaman is limited to 500, so you can rest assured there won’t be tourist crowds. When I visited, apart from our group there were another 10 people. Since the mobile signal is weak and there are no power outlets, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy a digital detox. Only your camera won’t get a break! Kalanggaman is way too picturesque for that. Kalanggaman boasts another wonderful feature – there are no mosquitoes! You can thus forget the repellent at home, but the same can’t be said about sunblock.

Contributed by Veronika. Follow her on Travel Geekery

Best Philippines islands for verdant greenery and gushing waterfalls

Bohol is a bit different than all the other islands in the Philippines. While the rest of the Philippines islands pride themselves with some of the very best beaches in the world, Bohol is all about the jungle experience. From zip-lining to waterfall climbing, there are many things to do in this dense jungle paradise but here are the top things to see and do in Bohol.

The Chocolate Hills  is a bizarre earth formation coming straight out of the Jumanji movie. Those cute hills are one of a kind sight that owns its name to the lemongrass that grows on them. During the summer, the grass goes brown giving the Chocolate Hills their iconic look.  Bohol Tarsiers  are cute little primates with huge eyes, who tend to get stressed from everything. Bohol is one of the few places on earth where they still exist and can be observed. Make sure to go to the ethical Philippine Tarsier and Wildlife Sanctuary – and not the unofficial tourist trap that keeps exploiting the little guys for profit.

Mother Trees Search  was one of the top five experiences in my life, but for some reason is not one of the most popular activities in Bohol. The Mother Trees are the name locals gave to the special kind of trees the jungle fireflies use for food. And how do you search for them? When the sun falls, you go paddleboarding through the Loboc River until you find one. It’s the ultimate serenity, just you, the stars, and the jungle sounds around you. When you spot a Mother Tree, it’s like the stars have come down to earth to play around the tree’s branches. Truly magical!

A great place to stay in the Lomboc area is the  Fox & The Firefly . Lovely cottages with outdoor showers (yup, you take a shower in the jungle) located right next to the river. The place is also the starting point for the Mother Trees search!

Contributed by Slavi. Follow him on  Global Castaway

If you’re looking for adventure, Cebu is one of the best Philippines islands to visit. Wherever you stay on the island, there are plenty of amazing places to explore and cool things to do!

One of the most popular spots to visit on Cebu is the Moalboal to witness the gathering of millions of sardines just off the shore of Panagsama beach. It’s a truly incredible sight. There are a number of restaurants in the Panagsama beach area of Moalboal, but the pick of the bunch is definitely Cockonuts, which serves up delicious meals at budget-friendly prices.

Just a short drive from Moalboal lies one of the most famous waterfalls in the Philippines,  Kawasan falls . This beautiful waterfall has become incredibly popular thanks to the stunning turquoise water and lovely jungle setting. One of the best things about visiting is taking a swim to cool off from the heat.

Better yet, Kawasan falls isn’t the only amazing waterfall on Cebu Island. The eight-tiered Aguinid falls in Samboan is a spot that adventure lovers simply cannot miss. A visit to Aguinid falls involves climbing directly up waterfalls to reach the next tier. You’ll get to enjoy the beautiful nature along the way, as well as swimming and jumping into natural pools if you wish! If you’re craving another waterfall, then the towering Tumalog falls is also well worth a visit. With some truly incredible things to see and do there, Cebu is definitely one of the best islands to visit in the Philippines.

Contributed by Sam & Natalia. Follow them on Something Of Freedom. 

Although it may not have the tropical beaches and diving areas that the other islands have, Luzon makes up for it by its incredibly unique culture. While there are things to see in and around Manila, the true magic happens when you head up north to the Cordillera, the  Highlands of Luzon .

Forget Bali or Vietnam. These are the most spectacular rice terraces on the planet, and relatively few people come to visit them. The most popular is  Banaue  where you can still happily walk among the rice terraces free of charge and without a guide. When you’ve finished your walk, there are plenty of cafes in town that have huge balconies, allowing you to sit and stare at the gorgeous views all afternoon.

However, the true jewel in the crown of the Cordillera is  Batad.  Batad is the most spectacular area of rice terraces we’ve ever seen. They surround you on all sides like an amphitheater. There are plenty of hiking opportunities through the terraces to waterfalls and other hidden spots, and the panoramic views of the lush green rice fields are something you will never forget.

After you’ve had your fill of the rice terraces, head to the misty town of  Sagada , famous for its hanging coffins. In this part of the Philippines, the locals traditionally put relatives that pass away in coffins and hang them high up on the cliffs, believing this will place their spirits closer to heaven. Some coffins even have chairs for the dead alongside them! It’s historically a headhunting town and the mysticism around it still remains.

It’s cooler up in the northern highlands so you can try different local dishes, such as soups and stews to warm up. You can base yourself in any of the three towns to explore, although Batad can be done as a day trip from Banaue if you prefer. All the villages offer homestays if you want a glimpse of local life or there are many guesthouses.

Contributed by Cat & Joe. Follow them on  Walk My World

On our two-month trip around the Philippines, no other island gave us quite the same vibe  we experienced on Sibuyan . To us, it’s the best Philippines islands. Despite being located close to well-known Boracay, Sibuyan is far less popular with tourists. This is probably due to the lack of white sand beaches which are so typically associated with the Philippines, but that should not be a deterrent to visiting Sibuyan. The island is home to some stunning waterfalls located in a wild jungle, as well as the cleanest river in the Philippines. If you’re looking for adventure, this is where you will find it.

Sibuyan has one very badly maintained ring road spanning the circumference of the island, which surrounds the large Guiting-Guiting mountain. Sibuyan’s coast is mostly rocky, however, if you long for soft white sand beaches fringed with palm trees and crystal-clear water, you can find them at the gorgeous tiny  Cresta de Gallo Island , just a short boat ride away. Your guesthouse can probably ask a fisherman to take you out to Cresta de Gallo and barbecue some freshly-caught fish for you for lunch.

Sibuyan is far less developed than other touristy islands in the Philippines, so expect far fewer amenities and comforts. Local eateries are available on Sibuyan, but restaurants are few, and your best bet is to have your meals organized at the guesthouse. Electricity is out almost every night and the internet connection, as in many parts of the Philippines, is very sporadic. Nevertheless, the island has a very local vibe with friendly people, and if you’re looking for some authenticity on your travels, you will be sure to find it here.

Contributed by Nikki & Michelle. Follow them on Cheeky Passports

Best Philippines islands for diving and surfing adventures

Malapascua was my introduction to a pristine Philippines island and authentic local life when I went on a fabulous week-long diving trip here. This is a small island off the northern tip of Cebu: you can walk from one end to the other in a couple of hours. 

It is a 3-4 hour drive from Cebu airport to the northern tip and then a 30-minute ferry ride. But if white sandy beaches, jewel-toned water, gorgeous sunsets, beautiful marine life, and corals all packaged in a small authentic island is what appeals to you, look no further than Malapascua.

The island has about 4,000 friendly locals. No cars are allowed on the island, giving it a getaway-from-it-all feel. Diving in Malapascua is one of the best dive experiences in the Philippines. This is one of the few places in the world where it is easy to spot thresher sharks! I saw a huge variety of beautiful corals, colourful fish, thresher and white-tip reef sharks, crabs, and macro life.

But Malapascua is not for divers alone. For an island this size, there are plenty of stay and food options, suited for everyone including couples and families. My stay at Tepanee resort was good – definitely not your average diver accommodation. There are other budget stay options available on the island. Over the course of a week, I tried various cuisines from Filipino to Thai to Italian and more. There is a mix of high-end western and local-run restaurants and bars. 

Contributed by Shweta. Follow me on  Zest In A Tote .

Apo Island in the Philippines is a very small piece of land in front of the big Negros Island. This island is only 1.5 square kilometers, where 1,000 people live and are very happy to receive visitors. For most of the day here, there is no electricity. The services and accommodations are very basic, but you will be surrounded by beautiful vegetation and sea.

Most of the travelers arrive here to practice diving. Apo has one of the most beautiful reefs of the Philippines and seeing marine creatures like turtles is relatively easy – even more so if you decide to snorkel because they like shadow waters. If you do not like to dive or snorkel, then you can climb the 230 steps that will take you to a viewpoint at the top of the mountain. It is said that sunrise here is wonderful.

The best place to eat with a reasonable variety of dishes is the Liberty Resort (a very simple place). Also near the basketball court is a small business where some nights they grill food. Walk around the city and talk to people, you will be impressed by how friendly they all are.

The simplest way to get to Apo Island is to take a bus in Dumaguete that heads south and ask the driver to tell you where to get off. The bus will leave you a couple of hundred meters from a port where there are always islanders waiting in their small boats to take you to Apo for a few dollars. You need to worry about protecting your things because if there is swell you will end up completely soaked, but the adventure is worth it.

Contributed by Ale & Jona. Follow them on Universo Viajero. 

Siargao Island

When people ask me for recommendations about my home county – the Philippines, I always include the island of Siargao in my top three favourite destinations. Siargao is located in Surigao del Norte in the southern part of the country. It’s a very laid-back destination for people who want to beach bum, surf or just explore the unknown lagoons and caves in the area.

For beginner or professional surfers, the best place to be is  Cloud 9 . Here you can rent surfboards or hire a guide to teach you the basics. There are other surf breaks in Siargao, but this is the most popular one. If you’re not into surfing, this is also a great place to just laze around under the sun.

For island hopping, you can go visit Naked Island, Daku Island and Guyam Island in one day. Here you can expect to see fine white-sand beaches and great blue water. If you have more time, you can also visit Sohoton Cove in  Bucas Grande , a pristine maze of islets and lagoons where you can see clear water, underwater caves and a lake filled with stingless jellyfishes.

As for the food, there are lots of restaurants offering authentic local Filipino dishes as well as fresh seafood. And as for accommodations, there’s everyone for every budget. If you’re a backpacker, you can easily find homestays and hostels. There are also hotels and resorts that offer more amenities. We’ve stayed in an island resort and budget hotel, and both times we had a great time. All in all, we love Siargao for its very chill ambiance and natural attractions.

Contributed by Katherine & Hali. Follow them on  Tara Lets Anywhere .

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🏝️ Discover the Enchanting Islands of the Philippines: Tropical Paradises Await! 🌊

When it comes to tropical sanctuaries, the best islands in the Philippines offer a kaleidoscope of vistas far beyond the popular white sandy beaches of Boracay. An archipelago of over 7,000 islands, the Philippines presents a plethora of beautiful islands waiting to be explored. For the avid traveler or the curious explorer, the journey of discovering the top islands in the Philippines is as enchanting as the destinations themselves. From the perfect barrel waves of Siargao to the serene beauty of Palawan’s hidden lagoons , every island tells its own story.

Island hopping in the Philippines unveils a world of pristine beaches, ecologically rich marine life, and untainted nature reserves where one can indulge in pure tropical bliss. But which of these countless isles are the must-visit islands in the Philippines ? And what makes them stand out in a sea of choices? As we embark on a virtual expedition across the Philippine seas, get ready to encounter the famous islands for their legendary hospitality and the pristine islands that are the country’s best-kept secrets.

Whether you’re seeking an adventurous escape or a tranquil retreat, the islands of the Philippines beckon with a promise of unforgettable experiences. Join us as we chart a course through the dazzling waters and unveil these hidden gems in a realm often referred to as the Pearl of the Orient.

Unveiling the Splendor of the Best Islands Philippines

Amongst the archipelago’s vast constellation of isles, certain gems shine brighter with their incomparable allure and exotic charm. The beautiful islands in the Philippines offer more than just sandy retreats; they are bastions of biodiversity, cultural richness, and tropical escapism . Join us as we explore these must-visit destinations that stand as timeless testaments to nature’s artistry and humankind’s pursuit of paradise.

The Breathtaking Beauty of Palawan’s Hidden Lagoons

Picturesque and poised as the quintessential tropical paradise , Palawan’s hidden lagoons are ensconced amidst majestic limestone cliffs and aquamarine waters that sparkle under the sun. Top islands like El Nido Palawan are not only sanctuaries for marine life Philippines but also host to iconic island resorts Philippines that embody sustainable luxury and uninterrupted serenity. Whether you seek to dive into Palawan’s hidden lagoons or bask in the sun-soaked splendor, this is tropical escapism at its finest.

Boracay’s White Beach: A Tropical Utopia

Enshrined as a perennial favorite, Boracay Island resonates with the tune of waves lapping against the best beach in the world . White Beach Boracay , with its powder-like sand and idyllic vistas, promises a tropical utopia unmatched by any other. As night falls, the island transforms into a vibrant nightlife Philippines hub, where every moment is a celebration of life’s simple pleasures and shared discoveries.

The Surfing Capital: Siargao’s Exhilarating Waves

Deemed the surfing capital Philippines , Siargao Island hosts some of the best islands Philippines for surfing enthusiasts. Iconic surf spots dot the coastline, inviting adventurers to challenge the mighty waves or simply revel in the lush beauty of pristine islets. The island’s pulse beats to the rhythm of waves both in the water and across the vibrant social scene, defining Siargao as the heart of island adventure Philippines .

Coron: A Dive into Maritime Majesty

From the astounding clarity of Kayangan Lake, known as one of the cleanest lakes in the Philippines , to the mysterious depths of sunken Japanese warships, Coron Palawan offers a deep dive into maritime majesty. Here, marine sanctuaries teem with life and color, presenting some of the most exquisite diving sites Philippines and instilling a sense of awe for the archipelago’s underwater treasures.

Bohol’s Chocolate Hills: Merging Adventure with Culture

Bohol Island , with its unique geological formations and rich cultural fabric, beckons travelers to a world of natural wonders Philippines . The famous Chocolate Hills rise like emerald-clad monuments amid the landscape, luring visitors to unravel the mystery behind their creation. Meanwhile, a wildlife encounter with the Philippine primate tarsier in their natural habitat adds an extraordinary chapter to any adventure travel Philippines itinerary. Bohol is an island where nature and culture meet, creating a mosaic of experiences that resonate with the soul of the archipelago.

A Slice of Tropical Heaven: Exploring Beyond the Mainland

Philippines’ vast archipelago is a marvel of biodiversity and scenic landscapes, offering escapes to some of the world’s most pristine beaches and hidden natural treasures. Adventure, relaxation, and eco-tourism merge harmoniously in this tropical paradise , seducing explorers to dive deeper into the country’s rich offerings. From Pangasinan to Bohol , and Cebu to Mindanao, every island hub serves as a launchpad to a myriad of unforgettable experiences amid the serene beaches, secluded lagoons, and protected areas of the Philippines.

Island Hopping in Hundred Islands National Park

For those craving adventure sports and eco-friendly travel, Hundred Islands National Park epitomizes eco-tourism in the Philippines. With island hopping charters ready to whisk you away, you can explore the park’s myriad of natural attractions. Replete with protected areas and scenic landscapes, these formations stand as a testament to the Philippines’ commitment to preserving its natural beauty. Each island offers its own blend of adventure and tranquility, from the vera green backdrops to the crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling and kayaking.

Panglao Island: Bohol’s Serene Sanctuary

Nestled at the heart of Bohol , Panglao Island shines with serene beaches and vibrant tropical destinations. Renowned for its diving sites, especially near Balicasag Island, Panglao is a revered spot for underwater enthusiasts seeking intimate encounters with marine diversity. Above the surface, the island’s array of resorts offer serene beach escapes that capture the essence of idyllic coastal living.

Luring Adventurers to Cebu’s Shores

Cebu Island stands as a beacon among top island destinations in the Philippines, inviting voyagers to bask in its historical attractions and indulge in a plethora of water sports. Diving sites here are rich with marine diversity, and the island’s developed ecotourism is proof of its status as a pristine tropical destination. Whether it’s for history-infused city tours or the pleasures of white sand beaches, Cebu is a tropical exploration hub for all manner of travelers.

Siargao’s Secluded Lagoons and Mangrove Reserves

Known as the surfing capital of the Philippines, Siargao Island goes beyond to captivate with its secluded lagoons and natural reserves. The pristine mangrove forests and calm waters of Sugba Lagoon offer enchanting venues for kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding. Adventurers keen on tropical exploration will find Siargao’s island getaways, complete with serene beach escapes and a welcoming local vibe, wholly satisfying.

As you venture from the serene Panglao Island in Bohol to the stunning mangrove reserves of Siargao, the Philippines invites you to unwind and reconnect with nature. These islands encapsulate the sheer variety of experiences available in this tropical haven, leaving you eager to return and discover even more of its hidden gems.

In the rich tapestry of the world’s destinations, the Philippines emerges as an exquisite mosaic of islands, seducing travelers with their unparalleled beauty and diversity. These igems illustrate a spectrum of paradisaical charm, from the legendary waves caressing Siargao’s shores to the cultural tapestry woven throughout Bohol’s landscapes. The archipelago’s pristine islands like Palawan and Coron reveal subaquatic splendors that rival any on earth, placing these destinations amongst the best islands in the Philippines .

With every form of tropical splendor imaginable, this nation’s islands span the full gamut of travel experiences, embodying the very essence of island hopping in the Philippines . Whether it’s the vibrant local hospitality that enriches the visit, or the luxurious seclusion found in upscale resorts, the Philippines offers an array of indulgences for all inclinations. It is these multifaceted experiences that anchor the country’s status as a top-choice tropical paradise , making it a shining beacon on the international travel scene.

As we conclude this journey through the Philippines’ captivating islands, it’s clear they stand as titans among the globe’s must-visit islands . Bearing the hallmarks of a quintessential island retreat mixed with adventures through both land and sea, these destinations promise an evocative and memorable escapade. For those plotting their next vacation, consider the siren call of the Philippines – a true confluence of natural wonders, cultural exploits, and the allure of the unknown, waiting to be discovered among the most beautiful islands the world has to offer.

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Best islands in the Philippines – which to visit?

Narrowing down the best islands in the Philippines is a difficult task. There are thousands to choose from, each offering something different. You can reach most by air, making island hopping in the Philippines a popular pastime amongst travellers.

For many people, a Philippines island is all about sand beaches and snorkelling. Yet there’s so much more to discover if you venture beyond the hotspots. Some islands have bustling cities with world-class restaurants, whilst others focus more on heritage and wildlife.

One thing to note is that the country is becoming increasingly popular, so booking a hotel in the Philippines well ahead of your visit is super important. This is especially true if you have your eye on some of the famous beach resorts and want to come during peak season.

Best islands in the Philippines – how to choose

People often ask what is the most popular island in the Philippines? The answer to that really comes down to personal preference, and whether you’re looking for barefoot beach bliss or to indulge in a bit of local language , culture and history. Out here, there are no such thing as best islands. Philippines holidays are all very different, so it’s important to pick your locations according to your interests. From the tiny volcanic Apo island to the vast Luzon, there is a lot to whittle down but it’s not hard so long as you have an idea of the activities you want to experience.

If you’re wondering what are the top 5 islands in the Philippines, you’re in the right place. In fact, in this travel guide, we’ve added a couple of bonus islands to give you a bit more choice. For dreamy pictures of the Philippine islands and advice on where to find the most scenic spots, read on.

What islands make up the Philippines?

Wondering how many islands are in the Philippines? This southeast Asian nation is made up of over 7000 individual islands, handily divided into different archipelagos or areas to make it easier to understand.

In a nutshell, the three main regions are Luzon, which is the biggest island of the pack; the Visayas, which include favourites like Cebu and Bohol; and finally, Mindanao, down in the south. The popular Palawan lies over in the wests of the Philippines, which is also where you’ll find El Nido and Coron.

Palawan Island

Known for: beaches, caves and cliffs.

Palawan Island is famous for its secret lagoons and beautiful beaches. Easy to reach from Manila, Palawan is probably the first place that visitors consider when coming up with their Philippines itinerary, and it’s a popular spot with honeymooners .

El Nido is the shining star of Palawan and is a whole archipelago in itself! It’s made up of over 40 islands with towering limestone cliffs clad in jungle foliage lining turquoise lagoons. When you think of the best islands in the Philippines to visit, this is it! The ideal way to explore the secret coves and hidden islets is on a boat tour, many of which last for several days to fully immerse you in the landscape. We’re often asked, “what is the best island hopping tour in the Philippines” and the answer is nearly always the ones here in El Nido.

Adventure junkies should head to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River Park in Palawan to explore the mysterious limestone caves by boat. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site with ethereal karst landforms and ancient forests making you feel like you’re travelling back through time. The Puerto Princesa national park is also a great place for wildlife spotting, with everything from monkeys to starfish just waiting to be spotted. Snorkelling is world-class, with Honda Bay being the cream of the crop. The coral reef here is colourful and accessible, with no deep diving required.

You might want to shy away from visiting one of the most famous islands in the Philippines because everyone else will be there too. Yet Palawan deserves a slice of your holiday time, and despite it being popular, there are always secluded spots and remote discoveries to be had.

Coron Island

Known for: diving, sandbars and shipwrecks.

Island hopping tours around beautiful Coron Island are all about pristine sand and crystal clear water, with dramatic cliffs making the scene feel a little Jurassic. This spot is far off the beaten track, which makes it all the more worthwhile to visit. If you’re not a fan of rubbing shoulders with hordes of other tourists, Coron hits the right notes.

Coron is similar in appearance to El Nido, but here you’ll feel like a true explorer, venturing through fields and over hills in search of the sublime. In fact, many people think it’s one of the best islands to visit. Philippines tours don’t get more picture-postcard than here in Coron.

The snorkelling and scuba diving in Coron is some of the best in the Philippines, and even better than in El Nido. There are sunken shipwrecks from World War II for experienced divers, and plenty of coral reefs and marine life for everyone to explore.

The iconic highlights of any trip here are the Kayangan Lake and the Twin Lagoons, which frequently pop up in glossy travel magazines. Kayangan Lake boasts some of the clearest water in the country, and there’s a popular viewpoint that’s a must for Instagram fans. Meanwhile, the Twin Lagoons offer quintessential Philippine island scenery, with karst cliffs plunging into the aquamarine coves.

Boracay Island

Known for: beaches, water sports and bars.

The gleaming turquoise jewel of Boracay is known for having some of the world’s most idyllic beaches. It’s one of the most visited resort islands in Philippines with easy access and a range of hotels and guest houses to suit all budgets. If you’re looking for a relaxing holiday with all the amenities you could wish for, Boracay is the real deal. The nightlife scene is vibrant too, so if you want to party this is a great place to come. The scenery on Boracay isn’t bad either, so you’re really onto a winner with this idyllic Philippine island whatever you’re looking for in a holiday.

The main draw on Boracay is the sand, with the famous White Beach enticing visitors from near and far. Restaurants and bars line this long stretch of coast, although there are quieter sections too for those who prefer a more tranquil vibe. Crystal Cove is another superb spot for swimming, while windsurfers should head to Bulabog Beach for some serious fun in the sun.

Boracay is pretty popular so is often quite busy compared to some of the other Philippines islands, but there are always hidden beaches and pockets of calm to be found if you look for them away from the main resort sites.

Luzon Island

Known for: history, rice terraces and hanging coffins.

Home to the capital city, Manila, Luzon is the largest island in the Philippines. The landscapes and experiences here are varied, and you could easily spend your whole holiday just focusing on this island alone. The inland scenery is largely agricultural, with swathes of rice terraces and fields of maize lining the roads. The Batad Rice Terraces are amongst the most famous – and the most photogenic. You can enjoy hikes through the valleys for a closer inspection and visit rural settlements and meet some of the friendly locals. There are lots of homestays here, so if you’re after a culturally immersive experience, this is a great place to come.

Another reason for Luzon being one of the best islands in the Philippines is the Hanging Coffins of Sagada. Anyone wanting to explore beyond the beaches and experience something unique should come up here to this remote mountain province. Rather than burying their dead, the people of Sagada used to hang coffins high up on the cliff faces so that their ancestors are closer to the spirits. Today, the tradition is dying out, but curious visitors can still walk up the valley from the town and see this strange sight for themselves.

In the centre of Luzon Island, the city of Bataan is a prime spot for history buffs to discover more about the country’s heritage. This is where the infamous Bataan Death March occurred during the Second World War, and there’s a museum dedicated to the prisoners who suffered here. There are also churches to visit, as well as a heritage park focusing on the island’s Spanish heritage. Bataan is an affordable place too, so ideal for those on a budget. If you’re looking for the cheapest island in the Philippines, you can’t go wrong with Luzon. Having said that, the country as a whole is relatively cheap compared to other places in southeast Asia and even around the world, so wherever you end up will be fairly easy on the wallet.

Luzon is also known as the best island to live in the Philippines, thanks to its infrastructure, amenities, and scenery. If you’re considering stopping by on your digital nomad journey , then Luzon Island is a popular place to base yourself.

Bohol Island

Known for: chocolate hills, wildlife and diving.

Is Bohol the best Philippine island? Maybe, if you like a bit of variety in your holiday itinerary. Shimmering seas and deserted beaches are all well and good, but some of the Philippines top islands offer something a little different. Located in the central Visayas region, Bohol is one such island and a must for nature lovers and explorers who want to experience the unusual. The main event here is the Chocolate Hills site, where otherworldly conical mounds burst from the forest like giant green molehills. It’s bizarre yet beautiful, and you won’t find anywhere else like it on earth.

There are lots of waterfalls and remote rivers to explore, where wildlife rules the roost. It’s the sort of place best seen on a guided tour, so you can make the most of your experience and discover places far from the crowds.

Found just off Bohol, Panglao Island is a popular spot for scuba diving. The biodiversity here is staggering, and it’s another of the beautiful Philippine islands that have made it onto the UNESCO World Heritage list. Sunbathing and snorkelling are the order of a day at the beach here, which is easily accessed by boat or bridge from Tagbilaran City on Bohol.

Siargao Island

Known for: mangroves, wildlife and rock pools.

One of the most eastern Philippine islands, Siargao is less developed than some of the other locations, which means it’s less crowded too. Siargao Island is the spot to go if you’re wanting to surf – it’s the best place in the Philippines to catch a barrel wave and show off your moves. Yet there’s more to Siargao than surfing. You can also take a tour into the mangroves and discover a miniature paradise at Sugba Lagoon , where the colour of the water matches the trees.

If you want to get your palm tree fix, Siargao might just be the best island in Philippines. The palm swathes stretch as far as the eye can see, with the famous Palm Road being a must if you’re on a driving tour. There are viewpoints and coconuts along the way, so don’t forget your camera.

The Magpupungko Rock Pools are another top attraction on the island. Philippines scenery so often concentrates on cliffs and lagoons, but these emerald pools are a way to get even closer to nature. Make sure you time your visit for low tide otherwise you might be disappointed!

There are several tiny islets dotted around the coast, which make for great picnics and offer excellent swimming. Visit the Naked Island sand bar for those Robinson Crusoe feels, or head over to Guyam Island for palm trees and your own private stretch of beach.

Cebu Island

Best for: whale sharks, heritage and water sports.

Cebu ticks all the boxes when you’re searching for the best islands to visit in the Philippines. Nestled in the heart of the archipelago, Cebu has all the elements of a well-rounded holiday. In Cebu City, you’ll find historical sights dating to the 16th century when Spanish colonial rule was in full flow. Don’t miss exploring the 18 th -century Fort San Pedro in the Plaza Independencia, which tells stories of local conquest and revolution.

Cebu Island is a great place for water sports and is geared up for international favourites like parasailing and banana boating. There are heaps of superb snorkelling sites and hidden cascades like Tumalog Falls where intrepid adventures can enjoy a jungle dip. Hiking to scenic viewpoints is another fun activity here in Cebu, with Busay Hill being one of the most famous locations. Make sure you pack the sunscreen!

When it comes to wildlife, Cebu comes into its own. If you’ve ever wanted to swim with a whale shark, visit Oslob beach and snorkel alongside these majestic marine giants. Manta rays and thresher sharks are regular visitors too.

Travel around the Philippines Islands

On your search for the best islands in Philippines it’s important to take transport into consideration. If you look at a Philippines island map , you’ll notice that these destinations are strung out across the sea, so it’s not possible to just hop from one to the other without some careful planning.

Luckily, Philippines travel is well established and geared to tourism, with flights and ferries connecting all the major islands. Just remember to factor in a little extra time when arranging your itinerary in case transport schedules change or boats are delayed due to the weather. The Philippines is all about slow travel, which gives you the opportunity to do more than just scratch the surface during your visit.

So, which are the best islands to visit in the Philippines for you?

There are lots of different islands in the Philippines so it can seem a little daunting trying to whittle down your options into one manageable itinerary. Hopefully, we’ve given you some food for thought by highlighting some of the top Philippines vacation islands beloved by visitors from around the world.

Whether you want to swim with whale sharks in Cebu, admire the Chocolate Hills of Bohol, or snorkel with Nemo in Coron, the beautiful islands of the Philippines are waiting to welcome you.

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The Ultimate 3-Week Philippines Itinerary: BEST Islands & Route

The Philippines is one of those countries that feels like paradise. With its 7,641 islands, each more beautiful than the last, you'll find palm trees, incredible beaches, incredible wildlife, and some of the friendliest locals you'll ever meet.

On top of that, the Philippines has such an incredibly interesting mix of cultures due to its rich history of colonization. You'll find influences from the Spanish and the Americans everywhere in the county.

After getting back from my three-week adventure in the Philippines, I absolutely fell in love with the country. I had an amazing time island hopping, hiking, surfing, and diving.

To make it easier for you to have an incredible trip, and to take away some of the stress of planning, I want to share my three-week Philippines travel itinerary with you.

3 week Philippines itinerary

Traveling around for three weeks in the Philippines can be a bit more challenging and time-consuming compared to other countries. You'll find yourself island hopping quite a bit, which means taking several flights or ferries throughout your journey to get to your next destination. 

Three weeks in the Philippines may not be sufficient to explore the entire country, but it's definitely more than enough time to experience all the highlights and have an amazing time.

Day 1: Manila

Manila, the capital of the Philippines, is where most people start their journey. However, some of may not really enjoy Manila because it's a massive city and might not be what you're looking for when you see the beaches and crystal clear water of the Philippines.

However, if you're up for it and have enough time, you can actually have an amazing first evening in Manila before heading out to the islands in the morning. You can dive right into trying some mouthwatering traditional Filipino cuisine.  Toyo Eatery  and  Balai Palma  are two excellent dining options to start off your journey.

There are plenty of different neighborhoods and areas to stay in Manila. To help you find the perfect hotel, make sure to check out my guide on  where to stay in Manila .

Day 2-3: Cebu

When you arrive in Cebu City on day 2, you'll want to head straight from the airport to Moalboal via bus or taxi. It's a beautiful beach town on the west side of Cebu island, and that's where you'll be spending two days.

Take some time to relax on White Beach and soak up the stunning views. After a few days of city life and traveling, it's the perfect way to unwind.

If you're up for some adventure, exploring the underwater world around Moalboal is a must. I highly recommend going scuba diving. 

Savedra Dive Shop  is a fantastic place to book a dive, whether you're a beginner or already certified. They can even help you get your diving certificates done.

On your second day, get ready for some action. You'll be heading to Badain to go canyoneering . Along the way, you'll have the chance to climb, swim, slide, and jump off rocks in the Badain River.

Finally, you'll reach Kawasan Falls, Cebu's famous three-cascade waterfall, where you can cliff jump into turquoise pools from heights of up to 6 meters.

Alternative: Oslob

Instead of scuba diving and canyoneering in Moalboal, another option is to head straight from the airport in Cebu City to Oslob. Oslob is well-known for swimming with whale sharks. Just a heads up, I want to mention this as an alternative and not as my actual recommendation because there has been some criticism about swimming with whale sharks in Oslob. It's not entirely considered ethically correct to interfere with their natural habitat, so it's up to you to make that decision.

But don't worry, even if you're not going to Oslob, you still have a chance to see one of those magnificent creatures while scuba diving or snorkeling in Moalboal, if you're lucky!

If you're planning to visit Oslob, Moalboal, or any other town in Cebu, and you want to find the perfect place to stay, make sure to check out my guide on where to stay in Cebu Island.

Day 4-6: Bohol

Your next stop after Cebu is going to be Bohol Island, just a short 2-hour ferry ride away. You can easily purchase your  tickets online . Once you're there, you'll most likely be staying on Panglao Island, a small island connected to the main island of Bohol via a bridge.

Bohol is packed with cool things to do and it's been one of my real highlights in the Philippines. You absolutely must see the famous Chocolate Hills in Bohol. This geological formation in the center of Bohol consists of over 1200 hills and it's incredible to see from above. The entrance to the Chocolate Hills is super cheap, only 50 pesos, and it's just a 2-hour taxi or scooter ride from Panglao Island.

Alternatively, you could join a half-day tour like this one that will include transport and a guide.

Another highlight of visiting Bohol is seeing the Philippine Tarsier. It's the world's smallest primate and one of the cutest animals you'll ever see. You can visit a  conservation center  to get up close and personal with these little guys safely and ethically, ensuring no harm is done to them while also having an educational experience.

FYI:  If you ever see Tarsiers held in cages outside the conservation center, that's not okay and those people shouldn't be supported.

Check out my guide on  where to stay in Bohol  to discover the perfect accommodation that suits you best.

Day 7-9: Siquijor

It's super easy to hop on over to your next destination, the charming and laid-back island of Siquijor.

While still somewhat off the beaten path, it's gradually becoming more developed. Just a 1.5-hour ferry ride from Bohol Island, you can easily book your tickets here .

Siquijor is the perfect place to take a break from all the hustle and bustle and simply unwind. It's smaller and less crowded than other islands, making it ideal for exploring on a scooter. Even if you're not the most confident driver, it's a great spot to practice since there's not much traffic around.

The best part? You can circle the entire island in just about 2 hours!

FYI:  You can easily rent the scooters right from the harbor, and they should cost around 350 – 500 PHP (US$6-9), depending on the season.

When it's time for a relaxing beach day in Siquijor, make sure to visit my favorite spots: Paliton Beach and Tubod Beach.

Paliton Beach offers crystal clear waters for swimming and you might even spot some starfish, which is super cool. On the other hand, Tubod Beach has a long stretch of white sand, perfect for sunbathing. Just a heads up, there's a marine sanctuary in front of the beach, so I recommend not swimming there to protect the corals and marine life.

One activity you definitely should do is chase some of the best waterfalls on the island, such as Cambugahay Falls and Lugnason Falls. Cambugahay Falls is a popular tourist attraction, so don't expect a hidden and secluded waterfall.

However, you can definitely expect to capture some super cool pictures on one of the bamboo rafts right in front of the waterfall. On the other hand, if you're looking for a hidden and secluded waterfall, then you should check out Lugnason Falls.

Day 10-13: Boracay

Our next day is going to be all about travel. You'll be heading back by ferry from Siquijor to Cebu, and then catching a flight from Cebu to Caticlan, which is the closest airport to your dreamy destination, Boracay.

And guess what? From Caticlan, you can easily hop on a ferry straight to Boracay!

Boracay is where you'll have the ultimate beach vacation, with some of the best beachfront resorts in the Philippines. Let me tell you about two of my favorite resorts: The Lind Boracay and the Henann Prime Beach Resort. Trust me, they're both amazing luxury resorts with amazing facilities, from swimming pools to spas.

If you're looking for other accommodation options and different resorts in Boracay, check out my hotel guide to Boracay . It's got all the insider info you need. 

If you're feeling a bit more adventurous, Boracay is the perfect destination for island hopping! You can join one of the Island Hopping tours, which you can easily book here ahead of time .

Get ready to explore the surrounding islands and beaches like Crystal Cove Island, Crocodile Island, Magic Island, Puka Beach, and Balinghai Beach. You'll have a great time sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying a delicious lunch and refreshing drinks in different locations.

Alternative: Siargao

Prefer fun-filled and adventurous days over the resort island of Boracay, I've got the perfect alternative: Siargao!

Siargao is potentially the most beautiful island out of all of them. Unlike Boracay's luxury resorts, Siargao is all about laid-back surfer towns and charming beach shacks. Personally, I love both islands, but for very different reasons.

Siargao is the real deal if you're seeking an off-the-beaten-path and relaxed island experience. With its palm trees, white sand beaches, and popularity among travelers and backpackers, it's a true gem.

Surfing takes center stage here, earning it the title of Surfing Capital of the Philippines. But don't worry, there are plenty of other activities like diving and island hopping to keep you entertained. And let me tell you, Siargao has so many hidden secret beaches and lagoons just waiting to be explored.

One of my favorite spots during these adventures is the rope swing at Maasin Secret River. It's like a hidden gem and the perfect spot to snap an epic Instagram pic. Trust me, you'll love it!

Day 14-18: Palawan (El Nido)

Whether you're heading to Boracay for a relaxing resort break or Siargao to catch some waves at the Cloud 9 surf break, you can fly from either island to Puerto Princesa, which is your gateway to the beautiful Palawan Island.

Puerto Princesa is the capital of Palawan, but the real gem is El Nido! You'll want to hop on a bus or taxi and make your way there as quickly as possible. It's an absolute highlight of this whole itinerary. You'll be spending the next few days in El Nido, and let me tell you, there are so many incredible things to see and do.

In El Nido, island hopping is the ultimate highlight. With countless stunning islands to explore, you'll have plenty of options for your days. I recommend joining at least one or even two of the island hopping boat tours . Yes, you heard right – there are multiple options! Since there are so many different islands, one tour just won't do. That's why they offer tours of different islands.

El Nido Island Hopping A

This is without a doubt the most popular tour in El Nido, and if you're only joining one tour, this should be it!

Island Hopping Tour A takes you on an adventure around Miniloc Island where you'll discover the Secret Lagoon, kayak in the stunning and popular Big Lagoon, have a delicious lunch at Shimizu Island, and experience the breathtaking sunset at Seven-Commando Beach. The tours start from El Nido in the morning, last about 5 hours, and will bring you back to El Nido around 4 pm. 

The cost for this amazing tour is approximately $23, and you can easily book it here .

El Nido Island Hopping B

This tour is absolutely amazing because you'll also have the opportunity to explore some of the breathtaking caves on the nearby islands. You'll sail to the picturesque Snake Island, the enchanting Entalula Island, the movie-like Pinagbuyutan Island, and the fascinating Cathedral & Cudugnon Caves. Snorkeling equipment, a delicious lunch, and refreshing drinking water are, of course, included. 

The cost for this incredible tour is approximately US$26 and can be booked right here .

El Nido Island Hopping C

Tour C is definitely one of the most popular tours because here you'll get the full paradise experience with amazing hidden beaches and incredible snorkeling spots. Discover Hidden and Secret Beach, snorkel at Matinloc Shrine and explore stunning Tapiutan and Helicopter Island. Plus, there's a big chance to see turtles on this tour in the Philippines.

This tour is usually a little more expensive, up to $30, but trust me, as my personal favorite, it's well worth the money. You can easily book it right here .

El Nido Island Hopping D

This tour is absolutely awesome because not only do you get to go snorkeling, but it also includes some kayaking!

You'll have a blast swimming in the famous Small Lagoon, exploring the beautiful beaches of Cadlao Island (perfect for snorkeling), and checking out Pasandigan Cove, Nat Nat Beach, and Bukal Island. 

It's usually around $30, and you can book it here . 

El Nido Island Hopping Private Tour

The best way to do it, however, is to have your very own private tour. If you want to experience the best of all worlds, you can book a custom-made island hopping tour just for you. This incredible adventure includes all the amazing spots mentioned above, plus some extra secret places. 

The boats usually fit up to 6 people and can be chartered at the El Nido Art Cafe.

Clear Kayak

If you've had enough of boat tours and want to explore the surrounding islands on your own or with your partner, renting a clear kayak with a transparent bottom is the way to go. It lets you discover some amazing spots around El Nido without needing a guide.

You can easily rent these kayaks at the El Nido Art Cafe and have a blast exploring the waters. Don't miss out on visiting cool spots like Rainbow Beach and Seven Commandos Beach.

If you're wondering where to stay in El Nido, I've got you covered. Check out my  El Nido guide  for my top picks in different areas and hotels that suit every budget.

Day 19-20: Coron

From El Nido Town, it's just a 4-hour boat ride to your next and final destination before heading back to Manila.

That destination is the charming little fisher village of Coron. Technically part of Palawan, Coron has its own island and used to be part of the Philippines Island Hopping Tours in El Nido.

But it became so popular that tourists now go straight to Coron to explore all the highlights of the island separately.

The best way to explore Coron is by joining one of the boat tours around the island. These tours will take you to some of the coolest spots:

Kayangan Lake:  Prepare to be amazed by the beauty of this lake. It's accessible by a 10-minute climb and its crystal-clear water is located on a mountain wall, giving it a moonscape-like appearance. There's even a wooden pathway and platform for your belongings while you swim.

CYC Beach:  A must-visit beach on the tour, CYC Beach doesn't require an entrance fee. With its long stretch of shoreline, it's perfect for swimming. The beach offers picturesque views, unique rock formations, beautiful mangrove trees, and powdery white sand for sunbathing.

Sunset Beach:  As the name suggests, this beach is known for its stunning sunset views. It's a great spot to enjoy your lunch while taking in the beauty of the surroundings. The beach itself boasts crystal-clear water and a beautiful coastline.

La Islas de Coral:  Just a short swim from CYC Beach, you'll find Las Islas de Coral, a paradise for snorkeling enthusiasts. Just be cautious of sea urchins on the floor. This area is rich in colorful corals and diverse marine life.

On your second day in Coron, it's totally worth exploring Coron town. When I visited, I rented a scooter to check out the surroundings and headed straight to Cabo Beach. It's usually very empty, making it a great spot to relax in the morning away from the crowds. The scooter rental for the day should cost around 500 PHP, and the entrance to Cabo Beach is as cheap as 50 PHP.

After that, I suggest heading back to town for lunch, and my favorite spot is Cafe Socorro. They have a great selection, from super fresh smoothie bowls and juices to sandwiches. Plus, they serve up a good cup of coffee too.

For the evening, make your way to Mt. Tapayas, which is Coron's best viewpoint. Hiking up takes a while as it's stairs leading up with a total of 750 steps. I recommend starting your hike around 4-5 p.m. to be rewarded with the best sunset views on the island.

Coming back from Mt. Tapayas after sunset, and let me tell you, you'll be hungry! There's no place in Coron as fantastic as Trattoria Altore. Having spent some time in Coron, I can honestly say that this is the absolute best Italian restaurant in town. They offer an incredibly delicious spaghetti bolognese, and their pizzas and wines are simply on point.

However, it's no secret that it's the most popular restaurant in town, so it gets quite busy every night without fail. I suggest arriving before 7 p.m so you won't have to wait too long in line. Unfortunately, they don't take reservations.

Day 21: Manila

On your last day, you can easily catch a flight back from Coron to Manila. There are plenty of frequent flights, so ideally, you can fly from Coron to Manila and then straight back home. 

Just make sure to leave enough time between flights for any typical airport delays and security.

You can also choose to spend another whole day in Manila and explore some of the amazing restaurants and activities here. If you're curious about what to do in the Philippines' capital, don't forget to check out my guide on things to do in Manila .

Book Your Trip To The Philippines

Book Your Flight I recommend using Skyscanner as the easiest way to find and compare the best airfares to and within the Philippines. Book Your Hotel My top pick for finding the perfect accommodation is Booking.com , as they guarantee the best room rate available, plus you get free cancellation on most bookings. Book Your Tours & Activities  I like finding and pre-booking tours with  Get Your Guide and Viator . You will book with instant confirmation, great customer support, and free cancellation for many activities. Access Money Overseas Without Hidden Fees  I highly recommend  getting a Wise account  to withdraw money in the Philippines, pay for meals on the Visa card, or shop in Philippine Pesos. With Wise, you always pay the real exchange, so you never pay more than you need to. Stay Connected Anywhere Getting an eSIM card from Airalo eliminates the need for physical SIM cards, so you can easily switch between mobile networks in over 190 countries worldwide without expensive roaming fees. Book Your Ferries & Buses I love and use 12Go Asia for finding all transportation options including buses, trains, and ferries across Southeast Asia. Don't Go Without Travel Insurance Travel with confidence, knowing that Hey Mondo , my preferred travel insurance provider, has your back. Don't let illness, accidents, theft, or cancellations ruin your trip. As a Breathing Travel reader, you also get 5% off any policy purchased !

Philippines Pre-Travel Facts

Before traveling to the Philippines, make sure you're well-prepared with everything you need to know. Figure out the best way to get there, the ideal time to visit, how you'll be getting around, the estimated expenses, and the visa process. Don't worry, I've been through it all, so I'll gladly answer your questions to make it a little easier for you!

❓ How to get to the Philippines

Manila International Airport (MNL) is the main entry and exit point for most people, with direct flights from some countries and connecting flights from elsewhere. If you're visiting the Philippines while already traveling in Southeast Asia, you can also fly to other airports within the country, such as Cebu Airport.

📆 Best time to visit the Philippines

The best time to visit the Philippines depends on which islands you're planning to visit and what kind of weather you prefer. Generally, it's best to avoid the monsoon season between June and October as some parts of the country are prone to flooding. 

The most popular months for visiting the Philippines are February to May, when there is less chance of rain and temperatures in coastal areas average around 29 degrees Celsius.

However, make sure to do some research on which islands you're exactly planning on visiting. El Nido in Palawan and Siargao are quite far away from each other and could have completely different weather when you're visiting.

🚗 How to get around in the Philippines

Getting around in the Philippines is not as easy as in Thailand as you usually have to trip back to Manila as a hub, but there are plenty of different and affordable ways to explore this beautiful country. The only thing to keep in mind is that travel can be time-consuming at times, so make sure to plan accordingly. You might even find yourself spending entire days just traveling between places, but hey, it's all part of the adventure!

By Plane:  The most convenient way to travel from one island to another is by taking a domestic flight. There are plenty of budget-friendly airlines that offer direct flights and packages between the major cities.

By Van/Bus:  For longer distances, I suggest taking a bus or van, especially on bigger islands like Palawan or Cebu. That's the easiest and most affordable way to get from A to B, especially when coming or going from the airport. It's much cheaper than paying for a private driver or taxi.

By Boat:  If you're feeling adventurous, there are plenty of boat trips available to explore the islands from coast to coast. You can book day trips or multiple overnight stays on board with guided tour operators. 

By Scooter:  For shorter distances, the most popular option is to rent a scooter or motorbike. It's fun and usually quite cheap — just make sure you wear a helmet and drive responsibly.

☀️ Is the Philippines safe to travel?

Absolutely! The Philippines is generally a safe place to travel. Just keep an eye on your belongings and take the same precautions you would in any other country. Keep your wallet in your front pocket or a money belt, and leave valuable items like passports locked up at home or in your hotel room. Also, when exploring less-populated areas alone, it's always a good idea to travel in groups rather than by yourself.

✅ Costs in the Philippines

The Philippines is incredibly popular among backpackers for a reason – it's super affordable! Depending on where you're staying, your daily expenses could range anywhere between US$20 to $60.

Accommodation in the Philippines is very reasonably priced. You can find a cozy room in a hostel for around US$10-$15, and even less if you explore local Airbnbs or homestays. Plus, the food is super cheap, you can enjoy a delicious meal on the street for less than $5!

If you're planning to do any activities, like snorkeling or diving, or a day trip then they usually cost around US$30-$50 per day. And if you want to rent a scooter to explore the islands, that should only set you back anywhere between 200-1000 PHP per day. All in all, the Philippines is a fantastic place to travel on a budget!

And even if you're looking into a nice beach vacation, the high-end resorts in Boracay offer great value for money at around US$50 to $75 a night. It's definitely worth considering for what you're getting!

❓ Wi-Fi and Internet in the Philippines

Wi-Fi in the Philippines is abundant, especially in the big cities, but it's not as reliable on the islands and more remote places. If you're a digital nomad and need to work on your laptop while traveling, you can definitely find cafes and coworking spaces, sometimes the Internet can be a bit slow outside of cities, so plan accordingly. I've been to a few islands that are a little more remote so getting a good connection can sometimes be a bit of a struggle!

🏝️ Philippines Visa

When you fly to the Philippines, many nationalities get a 30-day Visa on Arrival, which is super convenient! Just make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months and that you have an outbound ticket to show you're leaving within those 30 days. If you need more time, you can even extend the visa up to 60 days.

3 week Philippines itinerary – Final Words

If you're looking to experience the most paradise-like islands and beaches in the world without breaking the bank, then the Philippines takes the cake! It offers a great balance of adventure and leisure activities, making it one of the most cost-effective tropical getaways in South East Asia. 

This three-week Philippines travel itinerary will surely take you to most of the country's highlights, but trust me, there's so much more to see and explore in this beautiful country. With over 7,000 islands, there's plenty of room for you to come back for a second Philippines trip.

Don't forget to take some time for yourself and just relax on the beach – after all, that's what vacations are made for! 

Please note, this post may contain affiliate links, which means that – at absolutely no cost to you – we earn a small commission on sales generated through this website. We only recommend sites we actually use and thank you for your support!

Carolin is a travel expert born in Germany. She has been travelling around the world since 2014 and now lives in her adopted soul home Australia. Her travel advice has been featured on Forbes, Daily Mail, Yahoo!, News.com.au, Tour Radar, Expedia and she's also been named one of the top travel bloggers you need to follow by Tourism Queensland.

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Heaven on Earth: A guide to the best islands in the Philippines

There is so much to the Philippines than Boracay. Check out our top picks of island destinations within the archipelago to visit!

The crystal clear, emerald-green waters of Palawan is the place to be for the ultimate tropical vacation. Here you'll find the gorgeous beach town of El Nido,  which will blow you away with its sheer beauty. (Trust us when we say words will fail you in describing the beauty of El Nido.) Or if you're a diving aficionado, the Apo Reef just two hours off Mindoro Island is just for you. The Philippines isn't just all strictly tropical islands , however. Visit the misty, pine-tree filled island of Luzon  where you'll find the Banaue Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This breathtakingly beautiful spectacle stretches over a 20,000km distance of plunging ravines and offers a fascinating insight into the tribal groups who live in isolation there.

If you're curious to know more about the best islands this magnificent country has to offer, we can't blame you. Head up to our gallery above!

Photos: GettyImages 

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15 Incredible Places to Visit in the Philippines

Updated September 19, 2023

With over 7,000 islands to choose from, deciding where to go in the Philippines can be overwhelming. Don’t worry — we’ve got you covered with 15 of the most incredible places to visit on your Philippine sojourn, divided by the country’s three main regions: Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

Located in the northernmost end of the country, Luzon is the most populated group of islands in the Philippines and home to many of its most populous cities and attractions.

Take a day or two to explore Manila, the Philippines’ bustling metropolitan capital. Manila is the densest city in the world and the two million people living there create an exciting, non-stop energy. You’ll find no shortage of things to do, like trying the best seafood of your life at the  Pasay Seafood Market or strolling down the palm tree-lined Manila Baywalk (a two-kilometer promenade packed with cafes and jaw-dropping views of the sunset).

Definitely swing through the neighborhood of Makati, it’s a great place to explore and people watch via the Salcedo Market . And don’t leave without visiting the National Museum — the museum hosts some amazing exhibitions on Filipino art, archaeology, and natural history that will really help set the stage for your experience in the Philippines.

Pro tip : Manila is big — and full of hidden gems!

The Spanish came and went, but their influence on Vigan’s architecture remained — as you wander Vigan’s streets, you’ll definitely notice the European influence. On the west coast of Luzon (about 6 hours north of Manila), Vigan offers tons of great historical attractions — and it’s also an ideal starting point for cruises down the Mestizo River.

With tons of unique fusion between Filipino and Spanish food, Vigan is also a foodie’s paradise. If there’s one thing you need to try, it’s Vigan Longganisa, a type of chorizo that’s the star of the local cuisine. Wander down the cobblestone main street, Calle Crisologo , where you’ll find great restaurants, tons of ice cream trucks, and even horse-drawn carriages.

Pro tip : There are tons of great local eateries in Vigan!

Adams, nestled in the jungle-covered mountains at the northern tip of the Philippines, is packed with adventure potential. You’ll find wildlife, wooden bridges, and twisty dirt trails that you can only navigate on foot.

One of the main draws of the village is its waterfalls, eighteen of which are scattered throughout the nearby jungle. Anuplig and Kanayupin Falls are among the most popular, but we also love the hike the Lovers’ Peak, which offers a gorgeous sunset view.

Pro tip : Adams is awesome — but it takes some advance planning to get there. The trip involves a chain of buses and motorcycles from nearby villages.

#4: Mount Mayon in Legazpi

Mount Mayon in southern Luzon is an adventure hotspot in the Philippines — literally . Mayon is an active volcano! It’s so active that visitors aren’t allowed to hike to the summit — however, you can still camp and hike pretty far up. If you prefer to keep your distance, you can still admire the majesty of Mount Mayon from Legazpi. It's a quaint coastal town that offers diverse activities: admire local art at the Albay Capitol Atrium Art Gallery  or rent an ATV and tear off into the surrounding countryside!

#5: Batad Rice Terraces

You’ll recognize this spectacle in the Ifugao Province from those gorgeous Windows 95 screensavers from back in the day. (Are we dating ourselves? Oh dear). Here, the countryside is transformed into an amphitheater of rice fields known as The Batad Rice Terraces — and they will take your breath away. Not only are the formation of the rice fields incredible in themselves, but they offer a great hike that gives a close look into how the rice is harvested, dried, and processed.

If your legs are still feeling good after the hike in, you can also explore the area a bit more and try to track down the 230-foot high Tappiya Falls . Since you can’t reach the terraces by car, they are a great option for getting off the beaten path. From the nearby town of Banaue, it’s a 45-minute hike into the village of Batad and its stunning views of the terraces.

From Luzon we jump to Visayas, the smaller central region of the Philippines known for its beautiful mosaic of beaches, exotic wildlife, and vibrant indigenous culture.

#6: Cebu City

Cebu City has it all: amazing nightlife, fascinating history, and easy accessibility to some of the Philippines’ most gorgeous beaches. Explore the city during the day — we recommend checking out sites like the impressive 18th-century Fort San Pedro — and enjoy Cebu City’s electric nightlife once the sun goes down. Mango Square and IT Park are hotspots for great nights out.

Cebu City is also a great launching point to the rest of the island! From there, it’s easy to jump in the water and enjoy activities like scuba diving and swimming with whale sharks (don’t worry, they don’t eat people).

Pro tip : If you’re in Cebu City, hop over to  Mactan Island : the stunning azure waters make you feel like you’ve landed in paradise.

#7: Tagbilaran City

Tagbilaran, the capital city of Bohol Island, is beautiful and laid-back — the perfect place to relax at cafes, enjoy incredible views, and explore the nearby national parks. However, Tagbilaran isn’t always so chill! In July, the city transforms into an enormous party for the Sandugo Festival . It’s a pretty incredible experience. The festival, which celebrates the infamous, 16th-century blood pact between the Spanish explorer Miguel Lopez and Lord Sikatuna of Bohol, features street dancing, beauty contests, parades, and more!

Pro tip : Pretty awesome, right? If you can tear yourself away from the party, check out the town’s blood pact monument .

#8: Boracay

Boracay, a small island in the central Philippines, is home to some of the most famous beaches in the Philippines: White Beach on its west coast, and Bulabog on its east coast. White Beach awes with palm trees and crystal-blue waters, whereas Bualabog is all about those waves, man.

If you ever need a break from beach life — hey, no judgment, it happens! — learn how to cook like a Filipino by signing up for a cooking class , eat lots of “lechon” (roasted pork), and make your Instagram followers green with envy with all your panoramic posts.

#9: Cambugahay Falls in Siquijor 

A trip to Cambugahay Falls is like an afternoon at the swimming pool — a pretty spectacular one. Cambugahay Falls is a natural waterfall-fed pool located on Siquijor Island just outside the town of Lazi. The trip to the falls is super easy — just a short drive from Lazi and a 15-20 minute walk from the parking area — but once you reach them you won’t want to leave. Ever . The Falls are relaxing, beautiful, and provide hours of fun cliff-jumping and exploring the multiple tiers of warm-water pools.

Pro tip : There aren’t any restaurants at Cambugahay Falls.

#10: The Chocolate Hills

The Chocolate Hills aren’t edible, but they are a feast for the eyes. The 1,200+ hills in the Bohol form wave after wave of gorgeous, chocolatey brown landscape — at least during the dry season, when the hills take on their famous hue. You can’t climb the hills — they’re a protected UNESCO site — so admire them from afar. Then, get to the next stop on your itinerary! The gorgeous Panglao Island and the enchanting Hinagdanan Cave are just about an hour away.

Pro tip: The best way to get to the Chocolate Hills is by taking a ferry from Cebu City to Tagbilaran City then hitching a ride via bus or renting a car from there.

Mindanao is the southernmost group of islands in the Philippines and is known for its incredible biodiversity and rich variety of natural landscapes.

#11: Davao City

Davao City is one of the Philippines’ most populated cities, and it has something for everyone. Spend your days exploring the city’s great cultural sites, like the *always free* Museo Dabawenyo and the People’s Park , which is full of indigenous-inspired art. The nightlife is wild and the city also provides easy access to Mount Apo , the Philippines’ highest peak. Awesome culture, amazing nightlife, and a mountain to climb?? We’re sold.

Pro tip : Davao City is the place to try Durian, a smelly but delicious fruit that grows in abundance around the city.

#12: Siargao Island 

Secluded and pristine, Siargao Island is so spectacular it was once voted the best island in the world . Surf, explore cave pools, or just soak in the vibes on the pier — whatever you do, set your mind to island time and forget about the rest of the world for a while. That’s the beauty of Siargao.

Pro tip : The island is easily accessible by boat or plane!

#13: Iligan City

Whatever that song meant by “don’t go chasing waterfalls”, forget it when you go to  Iligan City . This place is all about chasing waterfalls . In fact, Iligan, in northern Mindanao, is called the “City of Majestic Waterfalls.” We’re sure you’ve guessed why: It’s surrounded by 23 different waterfalls to explore! The most well-known is Maria Cristina Falls , but all are awesome destinations for hiking or swimming. After exploring the falls, rocket through the forest canopy on a zip line or explore the local  Botanical and Zoological gardens .

#14: Hinatuan River 

The Hinatuan River is actually commonly called the  Hinatuan Enchanted River . It won’t take long to understand why — the 80-foot deep, saltwater river enchants all who set eyes on it. Visit in the afternoon to watch the river’s caretaker call the fish to feed by playing the “Hymn of Hinatuan”.

#15: Cagayan de Oro

Cagayan de Oro spreads out along the coastline, creating a compelling fusion of city and coastal life. It’s a must-stop  if you’re traveling through northern Mindanao. The city is really beautiful, and it makes a great home base to nearby adventures like white water rafting and exploring Mapawa Nature Park .

Pro tip : If you love Lord of the Rings, a trip to Mt. Kitanglad Agro-Eco Farm is definitely worth it. Escape from the city bustle and see some Filipino-style Hobbit holes .

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• Destinations

An Ultimate Tropical Paradise Awaits At This Dreamy, Sought-After Philippine Tourist Town

A cursory Google search of El Nido will make you think that nearly every photograph has been AI-generated. Soaring karst rock formations envelop palm trees, white sands, and crystal turquoise waters dotted with coral reefs, creating otherworldly lagoons. El Nido lies at the northern tip of Palawan Island, situated in the Pacific Ocean just above the Equator, in the Republic of the Philippines. To put it in perspective, Palawan is just one of 7,640 islands that make up the sprawling archipelago that, along with neighboring Southeast Asian countries like Indonesia, Thailand, and Vietnam, have been long sought after for their  combination of immense natural beauty and affordability .

El Nido is easily accessible from Manila, the capital of the Philippines. Visitors can take a direct 1.5-hour flight on AirSWIFT from Manila to El Nido or fly into Puerto Princesa and take a 4.5-hour van north to El Nido, depending on your budget. Upon arrival, you'll find all types of accommodations, from wallet-friendly, trendy beach resorts to one-of-a-kind Airbnb accommodations (think private yacht and secluded island). Just like in some of the other hidden gems of the Philippines , creating a home base in El Nido — the gateway to the idyllic Bacuit Archipelago — will set you up for long days of dreamy tropical adventures.

What you need to know about island-hopping around El Nido

The time to visit El Nido for hot, dry days — ideal for a vacation filled with island hopping — is between January and May. And the easiest way to see all of El Nido's beautiful islands in one day is via boat. Local boat tours predominantly fall into four categories: A, B, C, or D. At first glance, it may seem like El Nido only has one tour operator, but many local outfitters use this classification system for the routes and stops they'll make during the day.

Some routes with the same letter designation may have small nuances, like one more or less stop, so it's a wise idea to cross-reference before booking. Tours often include lunch, last for 6-8 hours, and can range from $40-$45 per person for a group tour to $140-$150 per person for a private tour. If your budget allows, booking a private tour might be an activity to spring for, as they often leave earlier and have the flexibility to reverse an itinerary to avoid crowds.

Stunning sights to see from land and sea in El Nido

The show-stopping settings you'll explore on these boat tours include everything from Miniloc Island — which encapsulates the Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, and Secret Lagoon — to the similarly named Matinloc Island, a perfect locale for snorkeling and home to the hard-to-reach Hidden Beach, which was recently crowned one of the best beaches in the world by Condé Nast Traveler. Some tours also pop by the low-tide, swerving sandbar of Snake Island, Seven Commandos Beach — a white-sand strip with a perplexing name steeped in legend — and Dilumacad Island, also referred to as Helicopter Island due to its aerial resemblance to the aircraft.

If you're done with your time at sea, El Nido still has plenty of beaches you can access via land. Nacapan Beach, with chill vibes and golden sand, and Duli Beach, a surfer's delight where you can rent a board for the day, are quick day trips (around half-hour drives) to the north of El Nido. But with wide, white-sand beaches like Maramegmeg Beach (also known as Las Cabañas Beach) hugging the shore — complete with happy hours and sunset views — there may not be a reason to leave the land.

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The world’s best island-hopping destinations, revealed

Safety, average summer temperatures, and the number of islands on offer have all been analysed in this study

Sure, lying on the same beach day after day can be pretty glorious, but for the more adventure-hungry travellers among us, sometimes you gotta change it up – and island hopping is a cracking way to do so. In fact, searches for island hopping are up 25 percent this year. 

The world is full of pretty islands , but if you’re looking to cram as many into one trip as possible, we’ve got some good news. 

Planet Cruise has researched the world’s best countries for island hopping by evaluating safety scores, social media scores (including the number of Insta and TikTok hashtags), average summer temperatures, ferry prices and the number of islands. 

So, where in the world is best to go island hopping? Well, it’s (drum roll, please) the Philippines ! That’s right, this nation has topped the island-hopping chart, thanks to its whopping number of inhabited islands (2,000), a pleasant summer temperature of 26.9C (80F) and an impressive social media score of 11,280. 

In second place was Japan , which is the safest destination on the list with a safety score of 77.3, and the cheapest in terms of ferry price at just £4 (€4.75). Thailand claimed third, which has 50 inhabited islands ready to gander and a toasty average temperature of 28.1C (83F).

The 10 best island hopping destinations in the world

• The Philippines
• The Maldives
• Dominican Republic

Feeling the allure of island life? Check out this list of the best islands to visit in Europe , or our roundup of the prettiest islands in the world . 

Did you see that this European city was just named the world’s best destination for solo travel ?

Plus: What is the ‘Temple Run Challenge’ and why are conservationists condemning it?

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[Cancelled] F.T. Island set to electrify Manila with their 2024 ‘PULSE’ concert this weekend

[The concert has been cancelled a few minutes after this article was published.]

After more than a decade, South Korea's iconic rock band F.T. Island is finally making their way back to Manila! Fans can look forward to an electrifying night as the band takes the stage for 2024 ‘ PULSE ’ in Manila on September 14, 2024 at the SM North EDSA SkyDome.

F.T. Island, which stands for “Five Treasure Island,” has been captivating audiences around the world since they debuted in 2007. Known for their unique blend of rock and pop, along with emotional ballads, F.T. Island has built a loyal fanbase with hits like “ I Hope ,” “ Severely ,” and “ Take Me Now .” The band’s energetic performances and heartfelt lyrics made them a favorite not just in South Korea but across Asia and beyond.

This event is particularly special for the Filipino Primadonnas (fandom name), who have been eagerly anticipating the band’s return. In a video message , band members Lee Hong Gi , Lee Jae Jin , and Choi Min Hwan shared their excitement about coming back to the Philippines. They promised fans a show full of both their classic songs and new music, creating a night that’s sure to be unforgettable.

The last time F.T. Islandperformed in Manila was back in 2011, making this upcoming concert a long-awaited reunion. F.T. Island's Manila show is part of their global tour, celebrating the band’s enduring success and their deep connection with fans around the world.

Tickets for 2024 ‘PULSE’ in Manila are available via SM Tickets . Prices range from PHP 3,500 to PHP10,000 with VIP perks like a Photo Op, Soundcheck access, and a special Goodbye Session with the band.

Presented by WanXing Entertainment  and CDM Entertainment , this concert is a must-see for K-Rock fans in the Philippines.

• F.T. Island

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A Short Guide to the Marietas Islands: A Must-Visit Destination Near Puerto Vallarta

September 12, 2024

The Marietas Islands, located just off the coast of Puerto Vallarta , are an internationally acclaimed natural attraction. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve offers a unique combination of natural beauty, biodiversity and adventure, and is famous for its stunning Playa del Amor (Beach of Love).

The Islas Marietas National Park offers a variety of options for outdoor adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers, from scuba diving to bird watching and humpback whale watching .

Here is a brief guide to the Islas Marietas National Park and its fascinating natural wonders.

All You Need is Playa del Amor

The highlight of any visit to the Islas Marietas is Playa Escondida (Hidden Beach), popularly known as Playa del Amor. This secluded beach is one of the most unique in the world, hidden inside a crater and accessible only through a water tunnel.

Due to its ecological sensitivity, access to Playa del Amor is limited to just over 100 people per day. It is therefore essential to book a guided tour with an authorized tour operator .

If you decide to visit this incredible beach located very close to Puerto Vallarta , it is very important that you consider the following: Access to Playa Escondida depends on the weather and is therefore not guaranteed.

Before you book a tour to the Marietas Islands, and in order to make your trip a pleasant experience, take a few minutes to do some research on the packages offered by each tour operator, the payment method and what is included in the tour, as well as the refund policy.

What to Do in the Marietas Islands

The Marietas Islands National Park is a small archipelago northwest of Puerto Vallarta . They consist of two islands: Redonda and Larga islands, and two islands called "Los Morros Cuates", a series of rocks and sand shoals and the sea around them.

Swimming, snorkeling, diving and visiting Playa Escondida are the main activities. Please note that all food and beverages are provided on board the tourist boats. Consumption is prohibited in the National Park.

• Snorkeling and Diving . One of the best snorkeling and scuba diving spots in Puerto Vallarta is in the Marietas Islands. These waters are a paradise for underwater exploration, with vibrant coral reefs and an abundance of marine life, including tropical fish, manta rays and sea turtles. Snorkeling and diving packages for all levels are available on many adventure tours in Puerto Vallarta .
• Bird Watching . The Marietas Islands are home to the iconic blue-footed booby. Other bird species include frigate birds and pelicans. Birding excursions are a great way to see these rare and beautiful birds in their natural environment.
• Kayaking and Paddleboarding . Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the island's coastline at a more leisurely pace. This is a great way to get closer to the rock formations and hidden coves at your own pace.
• Whale Watching (December through March). During the winter months , the waters around Marietas Islands become Puerto Vallarta's premier whale watching location. Join an ecotour in Puerto Vallarta to see the humpback whales as they jump and play in the ocean.

Wildlife in the Marietas Islands

The Marietas Islands are a protected marine sanctuary with a rich diversity of marine life. Snorkelers and divers will find colorful fish, sea turtles and coral reefs to explore.

On the surface, birdwatchers will find a variety of breeding colonies of more than 90 species of birds. Among them is the famous Blue-footed Booby. The world's largest breeding colony of brown boobies is also found on the Marietas Islands.

The unique ecosystem of the Marietas Islands makes it one of the best places in Puerto Vallarta for eco-tourism .

Preservation and Environmental Protection

As a National Park, RAMSAR site, World Heritage Site and UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the Marietas Islands are under strict protection. The islands have strict regulations in place for the preservation of the natural beauty and biodiversity of the islands.

The number of visitors to Playa del Amor is limited to a few hundred people per day and all tour operators are required to respect the ecological practices of the area. 

We recommend that you choose a responsible tour operator that follows the Park's guidelines and preferably is authorized by the National Commission of Protected Areas (CONANP). In this way, as a visitor, you will be contributing to the protection of this natural treasure in Puerto Vallarta for future generations to enjoy.

How to Get to the Marietas Islands

The Marietas Islands are located approximately 20 miles (32 km) to the northwest of Puerto Vallarta . Getting to the islands usually involves a boat tour, and there are a number of options to choose from:

• Boat Tours . The most popular way to visit the Marietas Islands is by organized boat tours departing from Marina Vallarta and the Puerto Vallarta Marine Terminal. Snorkeling, kayaking and visits to Hidden Beach are often included on these tours.
• Private Charters . You can charter a private boat to take you to the islands if you prefer a more personalized experience. This allows for more flexibility in how you plan to travel and explore.

What’s the Best Season to Visit the Marietas Islands

The Marietas Islands can be visited throughout the year, but the best time to go is during the dry season from November to May. During this time, the seas are calm and the visibility is excellent for snorkeling and scuba diving. Plan to visit between December and March when humpback whales migrate to the area if you're interested in whale watching in Puerto Vallarta .

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Queensland's national park islands you can have all to yourself for pocket change

By Ellie Willcox

ABC Capricornia

Topic: Travel and Tourism (Lifestyle and Leisure)

National park islands are becoming a popular destination amid the cost of living crisis. ( Supplied: Tom Urech-Wright )

Middle Island sits nestled off the central Queensland coast in the Southern Great Barrier Reef.

White sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters and fringing reef popular for diving and snorkelling surround it.

Its neighbour is Great Keppel Island, which is the largest in the Keppel Group and visited by more than 50,000 tourists each year. 

Middle Island is one of eight islands in the Keppel Bay Islands National Park where you can camp. ( Supplied: Tom Urech-Wright )

But lesser-known national park islands like Middle, are becoming increasingly popular with travellers amid a cost of living crisis.

More than 2,600 people camped in the Keppel Bay Islands National Park over the past year.

The national park covers 13 islands, including eight which can be camped on.

There's only one campsite on Conical Island which costs $7.25 a night. ( Supplied: Tom Urech-Wright )

Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service ranger-in-charge on the Capricorn Coast, Oliver Lanyon, said there were lots of options for campers on a shoestring budget.

"Conical and Miall Islands have a capacity of six people, so people can generally camp there by themselves having a whole island to themselves," he said.

"It's not often you get a pristine island in the Great Barrier Reef for $7.25 [per person] a night. It's quite a privilege.

"The only challenge for the average person, is they need their own vessel to get there, or they need to charter one of the charter vessels from Rosslyn Bay."

The Urech-Wright family hired a boat to get to their campsite on Middle Island. ( Supplied: Tom Urech-Wright )

Families can stay on the islands for $29 per night.

Tom and Aimee Urech-Wright and their four boys have been travelling Australia in a caravan full-time since selling their Melbourne home in 2017.

The Urech-Wright family is travelling full-time. ( Supplied: Tom Urech-Wright )

"I remember coming over the hill, coming into the main part of Yeppoon and just looking out over the water and islands and thinking this is absolute paradise here," Mr Urech-Wright said.

"When we found out you can actually go and camp on the islands, I thought this is too good to be true.

"The blue water, the marine life, the coral … I think it's just as [good as], if not better than the Whitsundays, but so much more relaxed and chilled."

The family arranged to be dropped at Middle Island by a charter boat and camped on Sunset Beach where they spent their time snorkelling, paddle boarding, swimming and fishing.

There's no facilities on Middle Island so campers need to be prepared. ( Supplied: Tom Urech-Wright )

"There's no facilities whatsoever so we had to take everything with us, but we would do it again in a heartbeat," Mr Urech-Wright said.

"Some people think you can't do it, but it's so easy to do and so cheap.

"To be able to book out a whole island for your family is just unbelievable.

"It's almost what dreams are made of because you can't really get that anywhere else in Australia or the world, it's just magnificent."

Humpy Island, which has capacity for 60 campers, is the most booked national park island in Keppel Bay.

There's a large, shady casuarina grove, sheltered bays, coral reef and minimal sandflies.

Humpy Island is the most booked island in the Keppel Bay Islands National Park. ( Supplied: Tom Urech-Wright )

Mr Lanyon described Humpy as a "hidden gem".

"The last few years [the islands have] certainly become more popular and as more people move to central Queensland, the more people want to have that experience," he said.

"There's folks that come from all the way down in southern New South Wales and from northern Queensland to holiday on places like Humpy Island and are repeat visitors because of the beauty."

More than 2,600 people camped on national park islands in Keppel Bay over the past year. ( Supplied: Tom Urech-Wright )

Capricorn Enterprise chief executive Mary Carroll said the Southern Great Barrier Reef appealed to travellers because of its beauty and ability to swim all year round with minimal stingers.

"Where else in the world can you get an island to yourself for $7 a night? It's pretty amazing," she said.

Capricorn Enterprise says travellers visit Keppel Bay for it's beauty and ability to swim all year round. ( Supplied: Tom Urech-Wright )

Ms Carroll said Australians were desperate to connect with nature during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"We saw a lot of people wanting to just escape and get into the environment and that trend is not stopping," she said.

"People want to be in nature, they want to experience it, they want to feel it, touch it, breathe it, they just want to escape from the rat race and this destination offers that in spades."

Mr Lanyon said campers needed to book a permit through the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service website where they could also prepare for their trip by reading information about each island and what to bring.

"Take pictures and leave footprints," he said.