18 Breathtaking Places To Explore In The Philippines

The Philippines boasts stunning, practically endless white sandy beaches and a spectacular underwater world. So, if you are ready to explore some of the country’s 7,000 islands, here are my favorite spots I’d love to share with you…

1. El Nido

I thought this small beach town was an Instagrammer’s Dream! I thought it was a truly dazzling spot with towering limestone cliffs, powdery-white beaches, clear turquoise waters, tropical jungles, ancient limestone formations and a mix of charming thatched-roof cottages and rustic beachfront resorts. I loved how friendly the locals were which added to the laid back and casual small-town charm. 

I discovered it was located in the northern tip of Palawan Island, and its famed for its paradise-like scenery, remote islands, and as a being a gateway to the Bacuit Archipelago, a group of islands which are a popular tourist destination. It started off as a fishing village but is now a favorite haunt of visitors like me and has a population of around 50,000 as well as a vital role in marine biodiversity conservation.

I flew into Puerto Princesa International Airport and from there it was a 6-hour bus ride to El Nido and I stayed for a truly idyllic four days! I kayaked through the Big and Small Lagoons, snorkeled at Shimizu Island, explored the underwater tunnels at Dilumacad Island’s Helicopter Island, enjoyed the sunsets at Nacpan Beach, hiked to the peak of Taraw Cliff for panoramic views, and dined at the beachfront restaurants in Las Cabanas.

• Location: West part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Dry season (for clear waters and perfect island-hopping weather).
• Activities on offer: Island-hopping, snorkeling, kayaking, and beach activities.
• Accommodation: El Nido Resorts, Lagen Island Resort, and various beachfront hotels and eco-lodges.
• Map Location and Directions

2. Boracay Island 

This is a world-famous tourist destination! It’s breathtakingly beautiful with powdery white-sandy beaches, clear azure waters, seriously dreamy sunsets and a great blend of modern eco-friendly resorts, upscale hotels, and lively beachfront bars and beachside nightclubs! I loved how the island was relaxed and super-chilled by the day that transformed to a lively party vibe by night.

It’s specifically in the Western Visayas region, it’s part of the province of Aklan and lies around 315 kilometers south of Manila, the capital city. It was just once a small fishing village, home to the Ati people before becoming a tourism hotspot and I loved that it was also home to monitor lizards, sea turtles and coral fish.

I flew to Caticlan Airport and took the easy 15 minute ferry ride from the jetty there (it was also possible to fly to Kalibo Airport) and spent a week on the island. I tried awesome water sports at Bulabog Beach, went island-hopping and saw hidden coves, I watched the (braver than me!) cliff divers at Ariel’s Point, relaxed on the seriously stunning White Beach and Puka Shell Beach, watched the Paraw sailers at sunset and went to a fun reggae night at Station 2 nightclub. 

• Location: Central part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Dry season (to enjoy the beaches and water sports).
• Activities on offer: Beach activities, water sports, kite surfing, and nightlife.
• Accommodation: Shangri-La’s Boracay Resort, Discovery Shores, and beachfront resorts along White Beach.
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights… 

• Trying “helmet diving” for the first time – it was a seriously incredible (but also slightly scary) experience walking along the seabed with a guide while wearing a special helmet that provided breathable air! 

3. Siquijor

This was an under-the-radar gem compared to other tourist hotspots! I discovered an island province with pristine white sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, lush tropical forests, Spanish colonial architecture, historic churches and mystical folklore. In fact, I loved how it combined traditional folk healing and mysticism with its natural beauty. 

I found it located in the Central Visayas region, southeast of Negros Island, south of Cebu, and southwest of Bohol. It is the third smallest province in the nation and has a population of around 103,395 residents. I found out from locals that it was originally sighted by Spaniards in 1565 and named Isla del Fuego (“Island of Fire”) due to the glow of fireflies in its molave trees. It’s also home to large fruit bats, the rare Visayan warty pig, lots of different reptiles and birds, including the black-faced coucal.

I travelled to the island by ferry from Dumaguete Port, where ferries operated multiple times daily and took around 45 minutes. I spent three days here and went swimming at the dreamy Salagdoong Beach, snorkeling at Paliton Beach, hiked to the captivating Cambugahay Falls and Mount Bandilaan (the panoramic views were incredible)! 

I also squeezed in a visit to the the historic St. Francis of Assisi, the Enchanted Balete Tree and the tranquil Guiwanon Spring Park and learnt all about the island’s magical healing traditions, local folklore and legends from the super friendly locals!

• Location: Central part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Dry season (to enjoy beach activities and explore waterfalls).
• Activities on offer: Beach activities, waterfall exploration, snorkeling, and diving.
• Accommodation: Coco Grove Beach Resort, Salamangka Beach and Dive Resort, and beachside guesthouses.
• Map Location and Directions

4. Apo Island

I found this remote island was a eco-tourism haven! It was also a real beauty spot with volcanic rock formations and cliffs, sugar-white sandy beaches and ultra-clear waters, and traditional thatched-roof huts. I loved soaking up the slow-paced, rustic vibes and the isolated feel it had. 

I found the small volcanic island located in the Dauin municipality of Negros Oriental, around 7 kilometers off the southeastern tip of Negros Island. Part of the Visayas, a group of islands in the central Philippines, it only covers around 74 hectares (about 0.74 square kilometers) and has only around 1,000 residents but its known for being a marine sanctuary.

I flew to Dumaguete and took a 30 minute bus journey to Malatapay and took a guided boat trip the island which took 30 minutes. Once here, I snorkeled with the super-cute sea turtles at Turtle Point, checked out the unspoilt beaches of Cogon and Kan-Uran, dived their famous coral reefs and hiked to their lighthouse – the views were incredible!

• Location: Central part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Dry season (for snorkeling and diving in clear waters).
• Activities on offer: Snorkeling, diving, and marine life viewing.
• Accommodation: Apo Island Beach Resort, Liberty’s Lodge, and dive resorts.
• Map Location and Directions

5. Vigan

This was a beautiful UNESCO World Heritage city! I found well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture, a fine well-preserved cobblestone street, grand ancestral homes, and quaint antique shops. I was completely charmed by its nostalgic and romantic vibe and I felt transported to a bygone – and much more elegant – era! 

I discovered located on in Ilocos Sur province, on the western coast of Luzon. It is known for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture and is was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 and has a population around 53,000.

I took a direct bus from Manila to Vigan which took nine but it was worth it, I stayed for three days and discovered the meticulously preserved Spanish colonial architecture and heritage houses along the Calle Crisologo, shopped for local crafts at the lively Vigan Public Market, visited the charming Vigan Cathedral and learnt all about the local culture at the Syquia Mansion Museum.

I relaxed and swam at the nearby paradise-like Mindoro Beach and sampled the local cuisine at Café Leona. I skipped the traditional ‘kalesa’ ride though as I decided I don’t want to support animal tourism anymore!

• Location: North part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Dry season (for sightseeing in pleasant weather).
• Activities on offer: Sightseeing, exploring Spanish colonial architecture, and visiting heritage museums.
• Accommodation: Hotel Luna, Vigan Plaza Hotel, and heritage houses turned into boutique hotels.
• Map Location and Directions

6. Banaue Rice Terraces

These were breathtaking ancient terraced fields! I thought the whole place was jaw-dropping with their immense scale and intricate engineering, the incredible sight of thousands of stepped rice paddies which followed the natural contours of the mountains, and the traditional Ifugao village houses. I loved how exuded a serene and timeless vibe with a hint of mystery with its mist-covered mountains. 

I found them located in the Cordillera mountain range of northern Luzon, Philippines, within the province of Ifugao, around 350 kilometers north of Manila. They were built over 2,000 years ago by the indigenous Ifugao people using stone and mud walls for irrigation and have a population of around 20,000 residents. Five of the Ifugao Rice Terraces—including Batad and Bangaan in Banaue—were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995.

I took an overnight bus from Manila to Banaue, which took nine hours but it was worth it! I stayed for two days and discovered the breathtaking Banaue Viewpoint and Batad Rice Terraces, learnt about the area in the Banaue Museum and Tam-an Village, went on a very scenic one hour trek to Tappiya Falls, and chatted with the local indigenous Ifugao people who told me about their ancient rice farming traditions.

• Location: North part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Summer (for clear views of the terraces).
• Activities on offer: Hiking, sightseeing, and exploring indigenous culture.
• Accommodation: Banaue Hotel, Native Village Inn, and local homestays.
• Map Location and Directions

7. Coron

This was a dreamy tropical paradise in Palawan! I personally thought it was breathtaking filled with turquoise lagoons, towering limestone karsts, and pristine white-sand beaches, cute rustic seaside cottages and floating bamboo huts. I really enjoyed soaking up its laid-back vibes but it also felt adventurous too! 

I discovered it was located in northern Palawan, on Busuanga Island, and the town served as the gateway to the stunning Coron Bay, nearby islands, and marine sanctuaries in the Calamian Islands group. The small town had a population of around 65,000, and is famous for its World War II Japanese shipwrecks, stunning karst landscapes, and marine biodiversity. I found out that it was actually one of the top diving and island-hopping destinations in the whole country. 

I took an overnight ferry from Manila which took 12 hours and I stayed for an idyllic four days. I went on breathtaking island-hopping adventures to Kayangan Lake and Twin Lagoon, went world-class wreck diving at Coron Bay’s WWII Japanese shipwrecks, snorkeled the pretty coral gardens at Siete Pecados, soaked in the Maquinit Hot Springs, and hiked up Mount Tapyas and saw stunning sunset views over the islands! 

• Location: West part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Dry season (for island-hopping and diving).
• Activities on offer: Island-hopping, snorkeling, diving, and hot spring visits.
• Accommodation: Two Seasons Coron Island Resort, Club Paradise, and eco-friendly lodges.
• Map Location and Directions

8. Batan Island

This is the largest island in the Batanes province! I thought it was breathtaking with stunning dramatic landscapes made of rolling hills, rugged cliffs, green tropical pastures, rugged volcanic rock formations along the coast, and pristine beaches. I loved how quiet and rustic it was – it felt like a really unspoilt retreat nature away from the hustle and bustle of city life! 

I found it located in the northernmost part of the country, between Luzon and Taiwan, in the Luzon Strait and is known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance as a site of early Filipino settlements. It has a population of around 17,000 people and its known for the Mt. Iraya volcano and its traditional thatched Ivatan houses.

It took me 1.5 hours to arrive by air, flying from Manila(MNL) to Basco (BSO) and I spent three days on the island and I explored scenic viewpoints of the Marlboro Hills and Vayang Rolling Hills, striking Basco Lighthouse, discovered the ancient stone houses of the Ivantan and Mahato people, hung out at the cute Honesty Coffee Shop in Ivana, walked along the rugged and dramatic Valugan Boulder Beach and visited the quirky stone Tukon Chapel.

• Location: North part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Summer (for calm seas and pleasant sightseeing).
• Activities on offer: Hiking, sightseeing, visiting lighthouses, and exploring local culture.
• Accommodation: Fundacion Pacita, Tawsen’s Place Inn, and various homestays.
• Map Location and Directions

9. Sangat Island

I thought this secluded tropical island in Coron, Palawan was a gem! I thought it was like a paradise with its towering limestone cliffs, powdery white-sand beaches, sparkling turquoise waters, eco-friendly beachfront cabanas and dreamy overwater bungalows. I loved how peaceful, remote and rustic it felt and I really liked its eco-friendly focus too. 

I discovered it was located in the Calamian Islands in northern Palawan and is part of the Coron Bay area. Location: West part of the country. It’s a remote place with on permanent population and is an eco-tourism haven for divers and nature lovers. 

I took a ferry Manila which took 12 hours and then I went on a 30-40 minute boat ride to Sangat Island and stayed for an idyllic three days. I relaxed on the unspoilt beaches, snorkeled the beautiful coral gardens, went wreck diving at the famous Okikawa Maru and Irako Maru in Coron Bay.

• Best time to visit: Dry season (for ideal diving and beach weather).
• Activities on offer: Diving, snorkeling, and beach activities.
• Accommodation: Sangat Island Dive Resort and other eco-friendly beachfront resorts.
• Map Location and Directions

10. Lake Pinatubo

This unique lake is nestled within the crater of the Mount Pinatubo volcano! I thought it was a surreal beauty spot, with deep turquoise waters with contrasted starkly with the rugged, ash-covered caldera walls. It felt both serene and mystical. 

I found it located in the Zambales Mountains on the island of Luzon and it was formed after Mount Pinatubo’s catastrophic eruption in 1991 which displaced thousands and left only a sparse population in the surrounding area, mainly consisting of Aeta indigenous groups and occasional tourists like me. 

It was quite an adventure to get to Lake Pinatubo, I had to take a bus from Manila to Capas, which took three hours then it was a 1.5 hour thrill ride in a 4×4 followed by a fairly accessible trek. When here I wanted to jump in but swimming was prohibited sadly, instead I enjoyed an easy hike around the lake and breathtaking views of the majestic crater. 

• Location: North part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Dry season (for hiking and exploring the crater lake).
• Activities on offer: Hiking, crater lake tours, and 4×4 off-road adventures.
• Accommodation: Budget guesthouses and hotels in Capas or Angeles City, like Microtel by Wyndham.
• Map Location and Directions

11. Sagada

This small mountain town was a hidden gem! It had a unique and surreal kind of beauty with serene landscapes of ancient pine forests, tree-covered hills, quaint stone houses and its famous hanging coffins, which offered me (a spine-tingling) insight into the area’s interesting indigenous culture. I found it had a peaceful and mysterious vibe, with its mist-covered mountains and quiet, winding roads.

I discovered it nestled high in the Cordillera Central mountain range, in northern part of the country. It had deep ties to Spanish colonialism and the Igorot indigenous mountain folk and is now home to the Luzon hornbill, the flame-breasted fruit dove, cloud rats and Philippine deer as well as a population of around 11,000 people.

I travelled there overnight by Coda Lines Direct bus from Cubao which took 11 hours and I spent three days here which were a great mix of adventure and just chilling! I witnessed a breathtaking sunrise at Kiltepan Viewpoint and went to see the ancient hanging coffins of Echo Valley which was a spooky experience! I also went on an awesome potholing adventure in Sumaguing and Lumiang Caves, hiked to Bomod-ok Falls, went wild swimming at Pongas Falls, finished up with some cliffside dining and Sagada Mountain Tea at the rustic Gaia Café.

• Location: North part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Summer (for clear skies and cool mountain weather).
• Activities on offer: Cave exploring, trekking, viewing hanging coffins, and sunrise watching at Kiltepan Peak.
• Accommodation: Sagada Heritage Village, Rock Inn and Café, and rustic homestays.
• Map Location and Directions

12. Daraga

I was really charmed by this picturesque town! I found really breathtaking views of the imposing Mayon Volcano, a mix of traditional Filipino and Spanish colonial architecture dotted through the tropical greenery, an impressive baroque-style building made from volcanic rock and an its elevation of around 118 meters (387 feet) above sea level! It was great to just kick back and immerse myself in the chilled yet vibrant vibe of the place!

I found it located in the province of Albay in the Bicol Region, southeast of the capital Manila, just south of Legazpi City, and the regional center of Bicol.

I flew to Bicol International Airport and from there it was a short taxi ride to the town and I stayed for a very laid back two days. I squeezed in seeing the famous Cagsawa Ruins, admiring the Insta-worthy views of the Mayon Volcano and visited the Baroque Daraga Church. In the evening I explored local cafes and tried some Bicolano cuisine.

On my second day I kayaked on Sumlang Lake, discovered the intriguing WW2 Japanese Tunnel and went for an evening trek up the Quituinan Hills and saw a stunning sunset.

• Location: Southeast part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Dry season (for unobstructed views of Mount Mayon).
• Activities on offer: Sightseeing, visiting churches, and enjoying views of Mount Mayon
• Accommodation: Casa Simeon, Lotus Blu Hotel, and budget hotels in nearby Legazpi City.
• Map Location and Directions

13. Chocolate Hills

I thought these unique geological formations were extraordinary! I discovered a surreal beauty spot – it was a rolling landscape of over a thousand uniform, cone-shaped mounds that turned golden brown in the dry season. I was fascinated by the place and loved how mysterious and awe-inspiring it felt there!

I found them located in the Bohol province in the Central Visayas region, in the towns of Batuan, Carmen, and Bilar. They amazingly included around 1,200 symmetrical mounds which were actually formed millions of years ago through the erosion of limestone covered by grass. 

I took a ferry Cebu to Tagbilaran which took two hours and I spent two days exploring. I saw breathtaking views from the Chocolate Hills Complex viewing deck, went on a guided hike to the Man-made Forest in Bilar, went on a river cruise along the scenic Loboc River.

• Location: Central part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Dry season (to see the hills in their greenest state).
• Activities on offer: Hiking, ATV rides, and viewing the landscape from observation points.
• Accommodation: Bohol Beach Club, The Peacock Garden, and resorts in nearby Panglao.
• Map Location and Directions

14. Hinatuan Enchanted River

I thought this crystal-clear, spring-fed river was extraordinary! I loved how its vivid turquoise waters shimmered under the sun, and how it was surrounded by a lush tropical jungle and limestone cliffs, with a peaceful riverside area featuring rustic huts. I love how it felt serene and mystical with an almost magical atmosphere!

I flew into Surigao City from Manila and from there it was a 4-hour drive to Hinatuan. Once here I swam in its incredible turquoise waters, explored the nearby Enchanted River Park, witnessed the feeding ritual where local guides tossed fish into the river, and hiked to the atmospheric Santo Niño Cave.

• Location: Southeast part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Dry season (to see the river at its clearest).
• Activities on offer: Swimming, boating, and river exploration.
• Accommodation: Budget guesthouses and resorts in nearby San Francisco or Bislig City.
• Map Location and Directions

15. Intramuros

This was historic walled district in Manila! I thought it was a really attractive place with its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, fine historic landmarks and its iconic stone walls. I actually felt transported back in time with its nostalgic and charming vibe and well preserved sights. 

I found it located in the heart of Manila, bounded by the Pasig River, Roxas Boulevard and the Divisoria district. Founded in 1571, its the oldest district in the capital serving as the seat of Spanish colonial government. 

I took LRT Line 1 (Light Rail Transit) and get off at the Central Terminal Station and spent an afternoon exploring. I visited the former military prison and learnt all about Philippine history, admired the Spanish colonial architecture at San Agustin Church (which was an UNESCO World Heritage site), strolled through Plaza Roma and explored all the quaint cafes and shops in the area.

• Location: North part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Dry season (for comfortable walking tours and sightseeing).
• Activities on offer: Walking tours, sightseeing, exploring colonial buildings, and visiting museums.
• Accommodation: The Manila Hotel, Bayleaf Intramuros, and boutique hotels nearby.
• Map Location and Directions

16. Mount Mayon

I really liked visiting this active stratovolcano! I thought it was stunning for its perfectly symmetrical cone shape, towering over the surrounding landscape, as well as its verdant green slopes and the charming nearby town of Legazpi. To me, it felt awe-inspiring and serene, with a sense of both natural beauty and power which I loved! 

I found it nestled in the province of Albay in the Bicol Region, on the southern tip of Luzon Island, near the city of Legazpi, which serves as the gateway to the volcano and its surrounding attractions. It has a history of eruptions dating back to the 1600s.

I took an eight hour bus ride from Manila to Legazpi City and stayed for two days. I saw incredible views from Cagsawa Ruins where I also explored the remains of an old church, hiked the Lignon Hill and incredible panoramic views of the surrounding area, took a scenic drive through Daraga Church, visited the eco-tourism focused Mayon Volcano Natural for wildlife spotting and took a really fun ATV ride around the base of the volcano! 

• Location: Southeast part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Dry season (for clear views and hiking conditions).
• Activities on offer: Hiking, sightseeing, ATV tours, and photography.
• Accommodation: Misibis Bay, Mayon Backpackers Hostel, and hotels in Legazpi City.
• Map Location and Directions

17. Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park

I thought this place was a gem! I thought this sanctuary for ocean wildlife was stunning with vibrant, untouched coral reefs, incredible marine life, and clear blue waters. I loved how serene and otherworldly it felt.

I found it was located in the Sulu Sea, around 150 kilometers southeast of Puerto Princesa, Palawan, and I also found it was accessible only by live-aboard dive boats due to its remote location in the middle of the ocean. It was a UNESCO World Heritage Site established in 1988 and is protected for conservation and research purposes. It’s home to over 600 species of fish, 300 species of coral, and marine creatures such as sharks, manta rays, sea turtles, and different species of dolphins and whales.

I went there on a week long live-aboard dive boat, which operated seasonal trips from Puerto Princesa. Once there Tubbataha and South Atoll, where visitors can explore vibrant coral gardens, swim with diverse marine life including sharks, manta rays, and sea turtles, and discover breathtaking underwater walls and drop-offs,

• Location: Southwest part of the country.
• Best time to visit: March to June (for the best diving conditions).
• Activities on offer: Diving, marine life viewing, and underwater photography.
• Accommodation: Liveaboard dive boats like MV Discovery Palawan, as no land-based accommodations are available.
• Map Location and Directions

18. Davao City

This city enjoyed a really superb location! I thought it was a bustling gem of a place with a mix traditional Filipino and Spanish colonial buildings, but it’s surroundings were just divine with lashings of greenery, the majestic Mount Apo and serene Samal Island beaches. I found it had a vibrant and progressive vibe, combining urban modernity with plenty of attractive lush green spaces. 

I discovered it located in the southeastern part of Mindanao which is the second-largest island in the country. It serves as the regional center of Davao Region (Region XI) and is situated on the Davao Gulf, opposite the island of Samal.

Established in 1848, I found out that it’s one of the largest cities in the Philippines by land area and has a population of over 1.6 million people. It’s known for its multicultural heritage and is a hub for trade, commerce, and tourism. 

I flew into Francisco Bangoy International Airport (also known as Davao International Airport) and stayed for an awesome four days, exploring and hiking the peak of Mount Apo, enjoying the dreamy white sand beaches of Samal Island, sampling exotic fruits (the durian and pomelo was my favorites!) at the Bankerohan Market and trying local cuisine in the fantastic range of restaurants.

• Location: Southeast part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Dry season (for outdoor activities and city exploration).
• Activities on offer: Hiking, sightseeing, visiting parks, and wildlife encounters.
• Accommodation: Marco Polo Davao, Waterfront Insular Hotel, and budget city hotels.
• Map Location and Directions

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