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10 Best Islands in Philippines
10 Best Islands in Philippines: Picture entering a slice of paradise where crystal-clear waters caress powdery white sands and vivid sunsets blush the skies with shades of orange and pink. There is more than meets the eye in the Philippines, an archipelago comprising over 7,000 islands, where one can find the perfect dream vacation of relaxing on white -sand beaches or the rush of a daring adventure.
From the dramatic karst topography of El Nido to the myriad marine life of Apo Island, every destination is bursting with character. Whether you are a beach bum, an adrenaline junkie, or a culture vulture – these islands offer memorable experiences that will stay in your heart for years to come. Here, we reveal the best 10 islands in the Philippines you need to add to your travel bucket list. Be ready to encounter turquoise lagoons, fertile landscapes, and immeasurable hospitality, that will not let you forget this escape. Your tropical oasis is here!
Why the Philippines is a Top Island Destination
LinksThe Philippines, which consists of more than 7,000 islands, is rich in natural beauty and culture. An Indonesian archipelago in Southeast Asia, this is a place where travelers come to relax, adventure, and soak up the local culture. The islands of the country are home to beautiful sceneries too, ranging from white, sandy beaches and green mountains to colorful coral reefs and lagoons. The friendly Filipinos also help to make it an attractive venue, the citizens make guests feel welcome and at home.
One of the reasons why the Philippines is such a popular island destination is its vibrant marine life, drawing divers and snorkelers from all over the world. The crystal-clear turquoise ocean is filled with vibrant coral, tropical fish, and even stately sea turtles and whale sharks. Preserves and protected regions in the Marine sanctuaries protect the ecosystem to keep the undersea world alive and revitalized, leaving any diver or snorkeler with unforgettable memories.
Plus, the country has the advantage of being culturally diverse. Individual islands have their own once-off traditions, festivals and cuisine, which mirrors the country’s rich and multi-ethnic past. From the indigenous tribes of the Cordilleras to the Spanish colonial past in places like Vigan, the Philippines is a fascinating quilt of culture that enthralls and educates any tourist. With breathtaking natural wonders and rich cultural heritage the Philippines is a must-visit for those lusting for an amazing island adventure.
Boracay: The Crown Jewel of the Philippines
It’s called the island of Boracay and it is the best beach of our 10 Best Islands in Philippines list, and it’s often referred to as the jewel of the Philippines for good reason. This tiny island in the Western Visayas is best known for its beautiful white sandy beaches and super clear waters. Most notable is White Beach, a 4-kilometer strip of powdery sand that has perennially been rated among the world’s best. Guests can spend their days relaxing on the beach, by paddling in the warm waters, or participating in water sports such as parasailing, jet skiing and windsurfing.
Boracay boasts more than just its breathtaking beaches—with its vibrant nightlife, the island has something for every type of traveler. The beach attracts bars, clubs and restaurants after dark, which provide a plethora of entertainment including live music and fire dancing shows to all-night dance parties. Or if you’d rather relax throughout the evening with cocktails on the beach, or party the night away, Boracay has the nightlife scene to suit you.
For all its tourist appeal and development, having fun doesn’t come at the expense of your hosting ground or its environment. The island was closed for six months for rehabilitation in 2018, where infrastructure was improved and stricter environmental sanitation regulations were enforced. Nowadays, Boracay is the perfect threshold between being one of the best tourist havens while preserving its environmental wonders so generations still to come can appreciate its flashy allure and unparalleled loveliness!
Palawan: A Natural Wonder Awaits
Palawan is frequently called the “Last Frontier” of the PhilippinesIt’s called the island of Boracay, and it is the second number beach of our 10 Best Islands in Philippines list, and it’s often referred to as the jewel of the Philippines for good reason. This tiny island in the Western Visayas is best known for its beautiful white sandy beaches and super clear waters. Most notable is White Beach, a 4-kilometer strip of powdery sand that has perennially been rated among the world’s best. Guests can spend their days relaxing on the beach, by paddling in the warm waters, or participating in water sports such as parasailing, jet skiing and windsurfing.
, and it’s not hard to understand why. This long, thin islandprovince is home to some of the country’s most stunning natural wonders, including the towering limestone cliffs, and the clear lagoons, as well as the dense forests and the secret caves. One of the most popular places to visit in Palawan is El Nido, a town on the coast that is famous for its karst scenery, turquoise waters and excellent variety of marine life. El Nido Island Hopping trips to isolated beaches, beautiful lagoons and colourful coral reefs gives you a snap shot of some of Palawan’s untouched natural treasures.
One of the other places in Palawan that you must check out: Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New7Wonders of Nature. The park is home to an 8.2-kilometer underground river that passes through a remarkable cave system before emerging into the South China Sea. The public can then clamber aboard a boats in the form of guided tours of the cave seeing breathtaking rock formations and an array of wildlife in the area. The subterranean river is not just a natural phenomenon but also an ecological spot, housing different rare species only found in the area.
If you are looking to get off the beaten track, head to the remote and peaceful Coron Island in northern Palawan. The town of Coron is known for its clear lakes like Kayangan Lake and Barracuda Lake, both of which are circled by towering limestone cliffs and thick forest. The island is also home to some pretty awesome diving, a myriad of World War II shipwrecks are scattered along the depths offering an underwater playground for visitors. Whether it’s finding its secret lagoons, diving to sunken ships or simply absorbing the natural beauty, Palawan guarantees the adventure of a lifetime.
Cebu: The Perfect Blend of Culture and Adventure
Cebu, which is commonly known as the “Queen City of the South”, is a lively island province with the best of both worlds – historical and high adventure, and it is the third most beautiful beach of our 10 Best Islands in Philippines list. Being one of the oldest cities in the country, It is rich in history and tradition, from the historic sites, to the scenic landmarks,, to the mouth-watering food. Some of the most iconic sites that offer a look into Cebu’s colonial history and religious heritage include the Magellan’s Cross, Fort San Pedro and Basilica Minore del Santo Niño.
Cebu is more than just a historical and cultural destination, it also a place for adventure and nature lovers. The island boasts a variety of natural beauties, from beautiful waterfalls to crystal-clear beaches, forests, through mountains to living coral reefs. Among the most popular activities in Cebu is canyoneering at the stunning Kawasan Falls, offering a chance to hike, swim, and leap into the cool blue waters of the tumbling falls. If it’s a more relaxed type of adventure you’re after, with white-sand beaches and cool sea creatures, snorkelling and beachcombing in Malapascua Island or Moalboal are both great options.
You are not going to fall short of highlights in Cebu’s culinary scene as well. It’s home to one of best lechon (roast pig) in the Philippines. Guests get a taste of the local life here as well with sutukil (grilled, raw and stewed seafood), puso (hanging rice) and sweet, creamy Cebu mangoes. Don’t forget to go to Magellan’s cross, Cebu Cathedral and the other magical ingredients makes Cebu a magnet to tourists flying Philippines.
Siargao: The Surfing Capital of the Philippines
Also referred to as the Surfing Capital of the Philippines, and it is the fourth most beautiful beach of our 10 Best Islands in Philippines list, Siargao is a haven that every beach-lover and surfer must visit. Situated in the province of Surigao del Norte, this droplet-shaped island rose to fame with its global surf breaks, including the legendary Cloud 9. Visitors from all over the world come to surf its waves and join the annual Siargao International Surfing Cup. Even if you’re not a surfer, witnessing pros carving up the waves at Cloud 9’s Instagrammable boardwalk is an amazing sight.
Aside from its surfing scene, Siargao is a hub of natural wonders and outdoor experiences appealing to travelers of all dispositions. Here are pristine beaches, crystal clear lagoons and verdant mangroves to explore. One of the places that you should definitely not miss is the Sugba Lagoon, a calm and teal body of water bordered by green hills and limestone formations. Watersport activities such as kayaking, paddle boarding and swimming in the calm lagoon, or just to kick back and enjoy the stunning landscapes.
The laid-back vibe of Siargao and the friendly locals contribute to the charm, adding a welcoming feel that makes you feel comfortable from the first moment you arrive. But the food scene, local markets, and night life on the island are also delightful and enrich the experience. With experiences like dining on fresh seafood or tropical fruits at a local eatery or dancing the night away at an alluring beachfront bar, the Siargao life is a perfect mix of relaxation and fun. Be it riding the waves, discovering off-beaten paths, or just enjoying the natural beauty of the island, Siargao offers a vacation like no other with things to do that you will keep coming back for more.
Batanes: A Unique Cultural Experience
The northernmost province of the Philippines, Batanes, is an experience unlike any other in the entire archipelago, and it is the fifth most beautiful beach of our 10 Best Islands in Philippines list.. With its scenic views, old-fashioned, Ivatian houses and a wealth of culture, Batanes captures an impression of the more peaceful, slower rhythm of life of the local Ivatans. This island is not only home to rolling hills, dramatic cliffs, and rugged coastlines, but it also seems worlds apart from the fast pace of the city.
The Basco Lighthouse One of the most popular attractions in Batanes, Basco Lighthouse is situated on a hilltop with panoramic views of the town of Basco and the boundless Philippine Sea. From the lighthouse, one can get a magnificent view of the surrounding areas like the popular Marlboro Hills that roll down to the blue watery edge. Tourists can also go on leisurely bike rides or hikes, exploring the beautiful countryside as they pass traditional Ivatan villages and the ancient stone houses that have survived the test of time.
Batanes has a strong community and principled traditions. The Ivatans are a resilient, hospitable and sustainable people. Guests are encouraged to join in on traditional practices, like fishing, farming and weaving, thus gaining an authentic insight into the local culture. The island’s unique cuisine, which includes uvud (banana pith meatballs), dibang (flying fish) and vakul (a headgear made out of palm leaves), is another draw, and is a reflection of the Ivatan’s link to their environment. Batanes is entirely special and culturally enriching island that would surely leave a mark in each visit.
Camiguin: The Island Born of Fire
Camiguin, locally known as the “Island Born of Fire” is a small, mystical island that is endowed with stunning natural attractions, and it is the sixth most beautiful beach of our 10 Best Islands in Philippines list.. This island province in the Bohol Sea is the habitat of no fewer than seven volcanoes, of which the best-known is Mount Hibok-Hibok. Because of its volcanic terrain, there are a range of unique attractions on the island such as hot springs, waterfalls, and beautiful beaches.
The Sunken Cemetery (indicated by a large white cross) is one of the must-visit places where you can get a better idea how militaristic Sitio Sunog really was, especially since black sand is still left on the beach areas and because of the Sunken Cemetery itself. The flooded cemetery, caused by the eruption of Mount Vulcan in the 1870s, can be accessed by snorkelling or diving where it provides a first hand experience of an underwater world.
Aside from its volcanic attractions, Camiguin is gifted with imagery of natural beauty. The island is adorned with beautiful waterfalls such as Katibawasan Falls and Tuasan Falls for tourists to take a plunge on the cold, clean water. White Island, a picturesque sand bar island off the coast of Camiguin, is equally impressive. This deserted spit of land offers stunning sea and volcano vistas, and is a convenient place to stop for a swim, snorkel and stretch your legs. The island’s unspoiled rainforests and rolling hills are fitness buffs’ ideal playground for trekking and nature tripping while exploring Camiguin’s rich natural landscapes.
The local culture and hospitality of the Camiguinons is what makes the island even more attractive. Lanzones Festival is an annual event to celebrate the bountiful harvest of the exotic lanzones fruit – colorful parades, traditional dances and various Lanzones-flavored food. They can also tour the island’s historical structures like the Guiob Church Ruins and the Old Spanish Watchtower, which present traces of Camiguin’s storied past. Soak in natural hot springs, climb the slopes of an aging volcano, and become acquainted with local island culture: Welcome to Camiguin.
Mindoro: Home to the Famous Puerto Galera
Mindoro, the seventh biggest island in the Philippines, is a place where one can see a world that is beautiful and alive while in a setting that can both calm and invigorate the soul, and it is the seventh most beautiful beach of our 10 Best Islands in Philippines list.. The island is divided into two political provinces, Oriental Mindoro and Occidental Mindoro, representing the Eastern and Western halves of the island, respectively. Puerto Galera in Oriental Mindoro is another famous place in Mindoro. Famed for its beautiful beaches, colourful coral gardens, and diverse nightlife, Puerto Galera is a classic getaway for both locals and tourists.
Puerto Galera is famous for its superb diving and snorkeling as the area offers more than 30 amazing dive sites, good variety of macro and wide angle with living coral gardens and abundant marine life. The waters surrounding Puerto Galera are included in the Verde Island Passage, which is considered to be one of the most diverse concentrations of marine life on the entire planet. Divers and snorkelers can delve into underwater caves, coral walls and wrecks to discover a wealth of marine life, such as sea turtles, reef sharks and anemone fish. The Sabang Beach and White Beach offer water sports, sunbathing, and the happening beachy vibe.
Mindoro does not only have something to boast about its underwater beauty but has a trove of natural and cultural experiences. The island encases Mount Halcon, one of the country’s highest peaks, offering adventure junkies a tough trek.
Another must-visit for nature lovers are the Tamaraw Falls, a cascade of the cool, flowing water surrounded by verdant foliage. Mindoro is also home to the aboriginal Mangyan people, some of whom resolutely hold on to their traditional way of life and crafts. Both through village visits and from buying handmade arts and crafts (like woven baskets and wood carvings), visitors can gain insight into Mangyan culture. Mindoro’s variety of terrain and cultural attractions makes it an exciting destination for all types of travelers.
Bohol: Home of the Chocolate Hills
The island province of Bohol occupies the heart of the Central Visayas region and is known for the Chocolate Hills, and it is the eighth most beautiful beach of our 10 Best Islands in Philippines list.. These cone-shaped mounds, which become chocolate brown in the dry season, produce an otherworldly, eerie landscape that is unique. The Chocolate Hills are a must-see in Bohol, and one of the easiest places to take in the sight of these karst formations is from the observation deck at the Chocolate Hills Complex or the 214 steps to the viewing deck at Sagbayan Peak.
But aside from Chocolate Hills, Bohol has so much more natural wonders and activities to offer. The Loboc River Cruise is definitely one of the most enjoyed activities, where tourists can take a calm boat ride on the river, surrounded by vibrant tropical vegetation. The river fish catering boat will serve a buffet meal to be enjoyed against the back of the joyous local Filipino music and dance acts. For adventure seekers, there are activities like zip-lining, paddleboarding, and exploring the Hinagdanan Cave, a gorgeous underground cave with crystal-clear waters.
Bohol is also the site of the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary, where you can observe these tiny primates in their own environment. The tarsier is one of the smallest primates in the world, and it is certainly a curious creature with its large expressive eyes and unusual looking face. Visiting the sanctuary allows you to have a close up view of these cute animals, and also serves to contribute to their preservation, as their species have become endangered through the years. With its various tourist spots as well as scenic natural vistas, travelers are assured a vacation to remember in Bohol.
Coron: Stunning Lagoons & World-Class Diving
Coron, one of the Calamian Islands to the north of Palawan, is a haven for divers and nature enthusiasts, and it is the ninth most beautiful beach of our 10 Best Islands in Philippines list.. The island is known for its beautiful lagoons, clear waters , and dramatic limestone cliffs. Well, to be fair, it is often referred to as the cleanest lake in the Philippines, and that’s not without a good reason. Enclosed by high karst walls, the emerald waters make an idyllic scene for swimming and snorkelling. There is an absolutely stunning, panoramic view waiting for you at the viewpoint at the top of the climb to the lake.
Coron also has world class diving locations. The waters around the Coron area are famous for their mysterious sunken ships, World War II relics. As a result, the sunken Japanese warships are now artificial reefs that are filled with marine life, making for a truly amazing diving experience. Barracuda Lake, with its multiple thermoclines and otherworldly submerged rock formations, is another diver favorite. The mix of marine life—colorful coral gardens and a variety of fish species—makes Coron one of the best places for underwater sights.
Apart from its gifts of nature, Coron offers island hopping and beach bumming. The Twin Lagoon at Coron Island is a famous visiting point, where you can swim through a narrow entrance between two lagoons with different water temperatures. Banol Beach is a tranquil and a picture perfect destination, with its powdery white sand and turquoise waters this is a great place to relax and have picnics. Whether you’re a pro diver or just looking to chill on a tropical beach, Coron’s dramatic scenery and abundant marine life make it a fantastic adventure destination.
Dumaguete: Planning Your Island-Hopping Adventure
Dumaguete is the capital city and the main port and gateway to the province of Negros Oriental, beautifully nestled along the coast and is a boom town of course, and it is the tenth most beautiful beach of our 10 Best Islands in Philippines list. This attractive city is the gateway to island-hopping activities in the area. Apo Island, only a brief boat ride from Dumaguete, is a top diving and snorkeling site with exuberant coral reefs and resident sea turtles. To swim with these gentle giants in their own environment is an opportunity not to be missed.
Another well-known island-hopping getaway from Dumaguete is Siquijor, an island with an air of mysticism and natural beauty. With its unspoiled beaches and bewitching waterfalls, not to mention, historic landmarks, Siquijor is a hodgepodge of everything you want in a tropical destination. Cambugahay Falls, featuring a series of multi-tier cascades and crystal blue water, is a serene place for swimming and cliff jumping. White-sand beaches on the island, like Salagdoong Beach and Paliton Beach, offer peaceful places for lounging and sunbathing. Siquijor has developed lore, derived largely from mystic traditions among their people, including healing and sorcery and old churches that serves to enhance its mystique.
Save for its own boulevard of restaurants and cafes and the vestiges of progress like the oldest American-founded university in Asia (Silliman University), Dumaguete has almost nothing to offer. The buzzing city vibe and the fact that it’s close to some of Philippines’ most stunning islands make it the perfect base for island-hopping in the region. With Apo Island’s mesmerizing underwater creatures or Siquijor’s magical charms, one can expect that Dumaguete will offer a colorful escapade for their trip.
Things To Do in These Islands
Activities in the Philippine Islands image The Philippine islands are an archipelago with many things to do to satisfy your needs. For beach bums, sun worshippers, swimmers and sports enthusiasts, save your beach banter on Boracay. Boracay’s White Beach is renowned throughout the world for it fine, powdery sand and nightlife, making it a destination for relaxation and entertainment all rolled into one. For a more private beach experience, visit Palawan’s El Nido or Coron, where hidden coves and deserted beaches await.
Those looking for some adrenaline-pumping fun would also have no lack of adventures on these islands. Puerto Princesa in Palawan is where the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is located, offering an underground river tour through the fascinating limestone caves.
On Bohol, there’s paddleboarding and zip-lining down the Loboc River, and on Cebu, there’s canyoneering and waterfall jumping at the Kawasan Falls. The Philippines Topography is so varied – Tall mountains and deep canyons, rolling hills and flat meadowlands – that there are countless places to hike, trek, and discover hidden natural gems everywhere.
The islands have plenty to offer culture vultures and history buffs. You get a taste of the Philippines’ colonial past at Intramuros in Manila, a hamlet and the old walled city with well-preserved Spanish-era architecture. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Vigan is famed for cobblestone streets and colonial houses, showcasing the mix of Filipino and Spanish influences. Local fiestas like Aklan’s Ati-Atihan and Cebu’s Sinulog feature colourful rituals, music, and dance, providing the traveller with the kind of cultural immersion that is beyond compare.
How to Reach These Islands
Getting to the Philippines islands is also quite simple, thanks to a variety of ways to get there. The country is accessed through major international airports in Manila, Cebu, and Davao where the most flights in and out of the country connect to countless of islands. Some local carriers such as Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and AirAsia operate, domestic flights offering easy entry to most of the tourist islands such as Boracay, Palawan, and Bohol. I’d book the flights ahead of time, especially if you’re planning to fly during a peak travel season.
Ferries are a convenient way to move from one island to another. The Philippines is criss-crossed by a network of ferries and fast crafts in multiple islands with operators such as 2GO Travel, OceanJet and Montenegro Lines. There are ferries to take you slow and easy to different islands, where they converge in popular starting-off points like Cebu, Bohol, Dumaguete, Siquijor. For shorter distances low-powered outrigger boats, called bangkas or pump boats, are also used for island hopping and for short-distance travel along the coasts.
By the time you make it to your island getaway, transportation is typically easy. Local transport is typically in the form of tricycles, jeepneys and taxis in all major cities. Renting a motorbike or a scooter is also a common choice if you want to explore on your own pace, like in Siquijor and Bohol. Local tour companies offer some packages with transportation for tours and trips, allowing you to visit the best locations without the need to plan these trips yourself.
Conclusion: Planning Your Island-Hopping Adventure
As you get ready to island-hop in the Philippines, you must plan your trip strategically to have the best travel experience. With over 7,000 islands you can visit, focusing on the places that suit you and your travel aims is key to having both a great and fulfilling trip. Whether you want to experience world-class beaches in Boracay, the natural beauty of Palawan, the cultural heritage of Batanes, or the rich marine life in Puerto Galera, there is something for everyone in each of the various islands.
So if you’re planning to travel, make sure to plan around the best time to visit the Philippines, which is from November to April during the dry season. This is the months with the best climate for relaxing at beaches, colorful nights, excursions to the islands and outdoor activities. Also book accommodations and transportation in advance, particularly during high travel times, to ensure spot availability and less hassle of a last-minute booking. Most islands have a wide spectrum of accommodations including luxury resorts, boutique hotels, budget-friendly guesthouses and homestays, to cater to different tastes and budgets.
And finally, soak up some of the local culture and the welcoming embrace of the Filipino people. Interact with the islanders as well as sample local cuisine and take part in local activities to better understand and appreciate the distinctive heritage of each island. Consideration for the environment and local communities is encouraged, do not litter and contribute to responsible tourism by recycling and being mindful of your overall impact on the environment. As thus you participate in maintaining these beautiful islands for another generation to savour.
Overall, there’s a paradise awaiting to be explored in the Philippines, from various islands you could ever imagine to tropical places that offer experiences of a lifetime. From the pure beaches and crystal-clear seas to the rich culture and friendly folk, every island has something special to offer. Whether you are in need of rest and relaxation, adventure, or culture and history, the Philippines has something for you. So roll up your bags, keep your eyes on the islands, and get ready to feel the beauty and wonder of this tropical utopia. What are you waiting for? Get ready for your islander hopping adventure!
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