The Philippines is without a doubt a great destination for tropical getaways. With over 7,000 islands, the archipelago is teeming with beautiful beaches that will leave vacationers in awe. From stunning white sand strips to world-class water sports destinations, the wide selection of beaches in the Philippines always has something for every kind of sea lover. To help you plan for your next tropical adventure in the Philippines, here are some of the country’s best beach destinations.
1. Boracay, Aklan
Boracay is perhaps the most popular beach destination in the Philippines. The world-famous island of Boracay is known for its powdery white sand and clear sapphire waters. Tourists can also enjoy exciting water activities such as cliff diving, parasailing, and scuba diving. Nature trails and other thrilling activities such as zip-lining can also be experienced on the island. The island can cater to all kinds of travelers, with a wide selection of accommodation options from budget-friendly hotels to world-class luxury resorts.
Boracay has also been a go-to destination for nightlife parties by the beach but that has changed when the island went under rehabilitation. It was closed for six months in an effort to revive and sustain the beauty of this tropical gem. When Boracay re-opened last October 2018, new regulations for mass tourism activities on the island were introduced including limitations on nightlife parties. As a result, Boracay is slowly but surely turning back into that clean, peaceful, and exclusive beach destination that it once was.
2. El Nido, Palawan
Diving enthusiasts and travelers who love stunning scenery will definitely fall in love with the many wonders of El Nido, one of the many must-visit destinations in Palawan. Just like Boracay, El Nido also boasts of soft powdery sand and clear waters. El Nido is a gateway to nearby islands and beaches where tourists can witness majestic formations of limestone karsts, caves, waterfalls, lagoons, and marble cliffs.
Those who enjoy underwater explorations are also in for a treat at El Nido. The waters that surround this beach destination have rich marine biodiversity, containing over 50 species of corals. There is also a huge chance for the divers in El Nido to spot whales, sea turtles, dolphins, whale sharks, and manta rays. The best way to explore El Nido and its surrounding waters is to join the boat tours or rent your private longboat or speedboat.
3. Panglao, Bohol
The Philippines’ prime destination for eco-tourism, Bohol is home to many natural wonders such as its iconic and world-famous Chocolate Hills. For beach lovers in Bohol, Panglao Island is definitely a must-visit. The island is rife with pristine beaches that are perfect for swimming, diving, and snorkeling.
Its most popular strip is Alona Beach where travelers can enjoy a laid-back atmosphere, a good selection of bars and restaurants, and relaxing beachside massages. There are also numerous tour agents in the area that offer trips in and around the island. Panglao and its neighboring islands also boast of world-class diving spots with rich marine biodiversity. Here, tourists can spot dolphins, whales, jackfish, barracudas, and sea snakes.
Read more about things to see and enjoy in Bohol.
4. Siargao, Surigao del Norte
Siargao is the Surfing Capital of the Philippines. The surfing community in Siargao is continuously growing over the years and is creating a unique surfing culture on the island. Siargao has many surfing spots that can be enjoyed by surfing beginners to professionals. The most famous surfing spot on the island is Cloud 9 which is world-renowned for its hollow tubed waves.
Even if you’re not interested in partaking in surfing activities, the unspoiled and isolated beaches of Siargao still make the island totally worth a visit. There are also beaches with milder waves where tourists can enjoy swimming and snorkeling.
Discover more about Siargao.
5. Bantayan Island, Cebu
While Bantayan Island is one of the many popular destinations in Cebu, this vacation spot remains peaceful and quiet, without the cacophony of crowds. It is more laid-back than other nearby beaches and is untouched by the usual effects of mass tourism. Here, the shore is wide and the beach is serene. It is a paradise for those who seek a relaxing isolation from the city, the chaos, and the crowds.
There aren’t many water sports options on the island to maintain its tranquility, but snorkeling activities can also be enjoyed on its clear waters. Dining, entertainment, and accommodation options are present on the island so travelers can make the most of their Bantayan Island visit. Other than beach activities, tourists can also visit the island’s historic churches, hop on other off-shore islands, or explore its beautiful mangrove forest and caves.
6. Caramoan, Camarines Sur
Caramoan is composed of islands and islets that boast of undeniable natural beauty where tourists can enjoy relaxing seclusion away from the crowds. Here, tourists can enjoy barefoot strolls in its soft white sand, swim in the shimmering sapphire water, and take in the magnificent views of the limestone cliffs that surround them. Caramoan was put on the map when the hit international reality TV show “Survivor” used it as their shooting location.
While the location is secluded and truly serene, there is still a good selection of activities that can be enjoyed here such as scuba diving, island hopping, exploring Caramoan’s caves, lagoons, waterfalls, and underground streams. Adventurers can also climb the summit Mount Caglago where they can enjoy a breathtaking view of Caramoan’s islands and islets.
7. Palaui Island, Cagayan Valley
Perfect for those who enjoy backpacking and nature adventures, Palaui Island in Cagayan Valley is a hidden gem. Getting there requires trekking and hiking through a grassy and muddy forest, making the beach strip exclusive and free from busy crowds. Palaui Island’s sparkling teal waters, verdant forests, and gorgeous views of volcanic rocks make the challenge of getting there all worth it.
The beach is also rich with coral gardens and marine reserve making it a great spot for diving and snorkeling. The best way to enjoy the island is also to set-up tents for an extraordinary camping experience amidst Palaui Island’s raw natural beauty.
8. Samal, Davao
Just like the other beaches included in this list, Samal is also blessed with white sand, clear waters, rock formations, and lush mangrove forests. What sets it apart would be its other attractions that offer a truly unique Samal experience. A must-visit beach in Samal is the Sanipaan Shoal, more commonly known as the “vanishing island.” Just as the name suggests, this island vanishes during high tide and then resurfaces during low tide.
Thrill-seekers can also visit Maxima AquaFun where they can experience water activities such as banana boat rides, jet-skiing, super slide, snorkeling, and diving. For travelers who want to discover Samal’s diverse marine life, fun-filled snorkeling and diving activities can be enjoyed at the Coral Garden Marine Park. Another interesting attraction in Samal is the Monfort Bat Sanctuary, home to over 2.5 million Rousette fruit bats.
Read more about Davao.
9. Great Santa Cruz Island, Zamboanga
This popular beach destination in Zamboanga offers travelers something different: pink sand. The charming shade is caused by particles of red corals that are washed to the shore by the waves, mixing with the sand to create a pinkish hue. The beach’s unique sand is complemented by the stunning sapphire sea and fringed by lush emerald forests. It’s a different kind of tropical splendor that makes an interesting backdrop for your vacation photos.
Only day trips are allowed on the island wherein visitors can enjoy activities such as swimming, diving, snorkeling, and sunbathing. To preserve this emerging tourist destination, visiting Great Santa Cruz Island requires a tourist permit from the Department of Tourism of the province. This permit also includes armed security escorts as added preventive measures.
10. Pagudpud/Bangui, Ilocos Norte
Another beach that is great for picture-perfect vacation photos is Pagudpud in Ilocos Norte. This vacation spot is graced by a gorgeous view of windmills that stand majestically in the town of Bangui.
Pagudpud is a perfect destination for those who want that perfect mix of tranquility and fun. It takes some time to get to Pagudpud so visitors of the place are treated with a wide and tranquil beach where they can enjoy exciting activities such as surfing and kiteboarding. The best months to visit this beach for surfing activities would be from July to October.
