tourist spot in south philippines

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Top 10 Places to Visit in the Southern Philippines

It’s quite interesting to see different posts in the Philippines and see how popular this country has been for travelers and bloggers lately. I have been to this beautiful country 9 times and will be there again this winter. The Philippines is a beautiful country and perfect for the traveler who is on a budget . Most days you can buy food for as cheap at $2-3 per meal. There are about 7000 islands in the Philippines which can make your choices difficult when finding the best places to visit in the Philippines. Some of the top 10 places to visit in the Philippines are in the Northern and Central areas such as Manila, Cebu , Bohol , and El Nido which are more west and I wanted to write about some of my favorite places to visit in the Philippines. In addition, I wanted to write my post on my favorite places to visit in the Southern Philippines.

RELATED: Travel tips for the Philippines

The Philippines is great to visit any time of the year since it is usually hot and humid all year long, the only thing to consider would be Monsoon season. Additionally, if you find this post interesting check out  top 10 places to visit in the Philippines  for some of the best places to visit in the Philippines. If you are looking for other places to visit in the Philippines and a detailed Itinerary, be sure to check out Our 21st Century Odyssey’s  The Ultimate 20-Day Philippines Itinerary .

RELATED:   Philippines Itinerary

The Southern part of the Philippines is known to have a bad rap for being unsafe, it is typically the road less traveled and has less known tourist spot in the Philippines. It can be a dangerous location for tourists especially in the most southern tip of Mindanao, so please proceed with caution. Currently, in Mindanao the government has placed a Martial Law requiring everyone residing in Mindanao to be inside and at home by 8 pm.

RELATED: South Cebu Tourist Spots

Mindanao hasn’t been a destination for many tourists but I still think it is a place to write about.  I visit every year to see my family who resides in Mindanao and I have traveled all over this beautiful island. From Davao to Camiguin there are tons of great places to visit in including tourist spots in the Southern Philippines. Hopefully, this post can be helpful to those who are daring to try these places or people who live there locally that may want to visit and see other beautiful locations near them. These are my favorite places to visit in the Southern Philippines.

Top 10 Places to Visit in the Southern Philippines | 1. Camiguin Island

Camiguin Island is probably one of the most popular places to visit in the Southern Philippines and one of the well-known spots to many Filipinos as a beautiful island.  It is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the Philippines. The island, however, is made up of broken white coral from the ocean so the sand isn’t very soft.  You can take a boat out to this private little island to lay out, swim in the ocean and just relax.  There are some vendors out there that can feed you out on the beach, but one of my recommendations, if you want to try it, is fresh Sea Urchin.  Many of the men will go out into the ocean fetching fresh sea urchin and will cut them in front of you and drizzle it with a salty soy sauce and vinegar like sauce.

RELATED: A Local’s Complete Guide to Camiguin Island

Top 10 Places to Visit in the Southern Philippines | 2. Iligan City

Iligan City is known for all of their beautiful waterfalls.  There is Tinago Falls, Maria Cristina Falls, Dodiongan Falls and more. They have a beautiful water park near Iligan as well with a high dive and 40-foot water deep pool.  Iligan also a location that has a wooden carriage with a horse, pretty much a manual version of a tricycle/tuk-tuk. Iligan City has the most beautiful waterfalls which I find to be the most beautiful places in the Philippines to visit.

Top 10 Places to Visit in the Southern Philippines | 3. Eriberta Cold Springs

Eribert Cold Springs is a beautiful place to visit.  The water is ice cold and filled with fresh water.  They have done a lot of improvements and additions to this cute little resort which they didn’t have in the past.  They have about 4 large areas filled with water.  Some have slides, others have waterfalls and steps. You can even rent a space to grill fish or food, have a picnic and sing karaoke.

Top 10 Places to Visit in the Southern Philippines | 4. Tangub

Tangub is probably one of my favorite destinations to visit.  Every year around Christmas time, they fill little town up with lights, beautiful structures and create a town filled with Christmas lights and decorations.  They usually have a theme and my family usually visits every year. It is a little bit of our tradition during the holidays.  Tangub is one of my favorite places to visit in the Philippines during the holidays .

Top 10 Places to Visit in the Southern Philippines | 5. Pagadian

Pagadian is an interesting little place and you will notice that their Tricycles are different than most in the Philippines because of all of the hills.  The Tricycles are slanted to sit parallel when they are climbing up the hills.  One of my favorite places to visit and stay is at the Alindahaw Lake Resort in Lakewood. They have a gorgeous view and is fairly quiet and calm out on the lake.  You can go kayaking, ride a zip line or just hang out by the pool.

Top 10 Places to Visit in the Southern Philippines | 6. Siargao Island

Siargao Island has received a lot of attention lately on social media. This island has the sea of jellyfish that don’t sting. The jellyfish are located in the jellyfish lake and many videos have arisen with people swimming with these beautiful creatures. This island is one of the must-see places in the Philippines.

RELATED: Surf Guide to Siargao

Top 10 Places to Visit in the Southern Philippines | 7. Dapitan

Dapitan has Gloria’s Fantasyland Tours which is a local amusement park in the Philippines. This amusement park is nothing more than carnival rides like the state fair or county fair in some states in the US.  It is a lot smaller with more of a carnival feel. There is also the Jose Rizal Park which is a park and shrine to the Philippines most praised hero Jose P. Rizal. If you are interested, you can read more about Jose Rizal the National Hero of the Philippines .

Top 10 Places to Visit in the Southern Philippines | 8. Davao

Davao is a large city located in the southern mainland of Mindinao.  This city is one of the most popular places to visit in the Southern Philippines. This city has so much to offer and similar but less crowded than Bohol.  Davao has many Philippine tourist attractions such as the  butterfly house , bee farm, and Eden Nature Park . Be sure to check out this little gem.

Top 10 Places to Visit in the Southern Philippines | 9. Dipolog

Dipolog is a popular place to visit in the Southern Philippines and known for Linabo Peak.  There are some amazing beach views here that are worth checking out.

Top 10 Places to Visit in the Southern Philippines | 10. Dakak Park and Beach Resort

Just outside of Dapitan is the beautiful Dakak Park and Beach Resort. This resort has a gorgeous pool, beautiful land and modern looking rooms. Ultimately, this is definitely a place to check out. This area would be the perfect place to visit in the Philippines for couples because if it’s exclusivity.

Have you been to the Philippines? What is your favorite part about the Philippines? Which Places to visit in the Southern Philippines were you favorite?  Leave your comments below. 

Finally, if you liked this post, see Top 10 Places to Visit in the Philippines . ALSO SEE: Top 10 Things to do in Bohol, Philippines and Bohol Man Made Forest

DISCLAIMER : Oftentimes you will find that I’ve included links to certain hotels / tours /products/services. If you purchase anything through these links, I’ll receive a commission. It won’t cost you anything extra, but it will help keep this blog up and running.

Hey, I'm NieNie, also known as Stephanie – a California native of hapa heritage (an American with a mix of Korean and German) with an enduring love for travel. Transitioning from my expat life in South Korea to embracing the experience of living in Germany, while also frequenting visits to my family in the Philippines, I'm documenting my adventure as a plus-size woman immersing herself in diverse cultures. Join me on Adventures with NieNie for travel tips, cultural insights, and inspiring stories from South Korea, the Philippines, and Germany. Let's embark on this adventure together!

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13 Comments

Looks like you had a lot of fun! love your bathing suit 🙂 very pretty! Those waterfalls look heavenly. Could us a nice swim right about now as we are on the verge of getting snow!

These are destinations I wouldn’t have thought of visiting, but this makes me want to definitely give them a try! I especially love all the waterfalls of Illigan City! Love that you can stand under the one!

I’ve been to Boracay and Malapascua (the latter for my honeymoon). A lot of people were like ‘but is it safe??’ when we told them we were going to the Philippines for our honeymoon. It made me quite sad that everyone now thinks it’s some super unsafe place when the vast majority of the country is still very safe, I believe. Prior to reading this post, I’d have just stayed away from southern Philippines altogether. It’s interesting to see what the area has to offer!

Yea there is a pretty big stigma about the safety in the Southern Part of the Philippines, but that does not apply to all of the Philippines. Most of the time you just need to be aware of your surroundings. Also, if you feel as if your driver is sketch, then he probably is, just trust your gut. But most of the people in the South are friendly and I haven’t felt unsafe when traveling there.

I love waterfalls. And that resort looks so lush green and luxurious. There is so much to do in Philippines. I have been meaning to visit the country for years. Loved your pictures and post.

❥ tanvii.com

Great list! I have been to some of these places as my family is from Cebu. Beautiful spots on that list – some I’ve been dying to go like Siargao!!

Great guide! You are right, I feel like I’ve seen several articles lately on the Philippines. Thank you for writing about the not-so-safe area of the country as well. It is important to know about these things before heading to the country.

Great list of places to visit! I have several friends from the southern parts of the Philippines who’ve suggested similarly. Pagadian and the falls in Illigan City look so scenic!

These photos are all so beautiful!!! I’ve been dying to add the Philippines to my list but just haven’t been able to as of yet. But the islands that you’ve posted have me ready to book the next flight there! Especially the waterfalls on Camiguin Island… to die for! Simply gorgeous!

I loved your list. Places are not crowded and naturally so beautiful. I am so eager to visit these places. Saved your post for my future reference.

Philippines looks total fun! I have been waiting to visit all these places in Philippines since long! it looks more cool from your camera lens! Thanks for sharing this amazing piece! loved reading this! Cheers!

Wow Stephanie. The Philippines are inspired. I have never visited save a 12 hour layover in Manila but look forward to seeing the place. As for safety, most places are fine. Use common sense, follow local laws and hey, enjoy your time out before any curfew or late night hours. Most of the negative headlines are pure rubbish. I lived in Turkey 6 days after the coup and in Thailand during a coup. No issues at all. Thanks for sharing 🙂

Ryan, I totally agree it is a stigma. Yes, you need to be aware of your surroundings (that should be for any country you travel to), but the South has always had government warning signs, so a lot of people are afraid to travel there with the kidnappings and attacks. I have been over 7 times and never felt threatened and will be there this December. The Southern part is like I said under martial law at the moment not allowing people to be out after 8pm which is a new law, since the Philippines government is having an issue with the attacks. I wrote this post to provide awareness to the situation so that my readers know what is going on and why these places are high on the safety list. But, I also want to show the beauty and off the beaten path locations compared to the major tourist spots in the Philippines such as Manila, Palawan, Borocay and Cebu, which are located in the North and West. Everyone typically travels in the North because of this stigma, but I wanted to show that the South has a lot to offer as well.

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15 BEST South Cebu Tourist Spots – Ultimate 2024 Guide

South Cebu boasts epic waterfalls, panoramic viewpoints, swimming with whale sharks, and much more!

I have put together this complete guide of 15 Best South Cebu Tourist Spots including where to find them and what to expect at each one.

Also in this guide, I’ve included useful information on how to get to South Cebu, where to stay in South Cebu, how to get around, and the best time to visit.

Table of Contents

OVERVIEW – SOUTH CEBU TOURIST SPOTS

Let’s start this complete guide with all the essentials, such as getting to South Cebu, how to get around once you’re there, and more.

SOUTH CEBU TOURIST SPOTS MAP

Click here or on the image below for an interactive map of South Cebu.

HOW TO GET TO SOUTH CEBU?

The best way how to get to South Cebu is from Cebu City to Moalboal on the public bus from South Cebu Bus Terminal in Cebu City.

There are hourly departures to Moalboal from South Cebu Bus Terminal starting as early as 5 am.

From Cebu City to South Cebu the journey time is around 3 to 4 hours on the bus and the cost is between 150-200 pesos.

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HOW TO GET AROUND SOUTH CEBU?

There are a couple of options on how to get around and they are by scooter, habal habal (motorbike taxi), tricycle, and jeepney.

You can rent a scooter in Moalboal for as little as 300 pesos per day and make your own way around all of the attractions.

If you are not confident driving a scooter, the other option is to ride in a jeepney, tricycle, or habal habal, and the driver will know where to go in South Cebu.

WHAT IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT CEBU?

The best time to visit Cebu, weather-wise, is between April and July when temperatures are hot and there is barely any rainfall.

This is also high season in Cebu, so expect to see many tourists during these months.

I recommend visiting Cebu on the shoulder months of the high season between November and March which sees a bit of rainfall but usually only lasts for a couple of hours and the rest of the day is sunny.

Try to avoid the typhoon season in Cebu which is between August and October.

15 TOURIST SPOTS IN SOUTH CEBU

Ready to know what to do in South Cebu? Let’s now discuss the best South Cebu tourist spots to make the most of your time while on the island.

This list is a mix of active things to do, chill spots to relax, and island hopping to see some of the best places in the Philippines. Let’s go!

KAWASAN FALLS CANYONEERING

Kawasan Falls Canyoneering in Badian is without a doubt the most popular South Cebu tourist spot!

A visit to Kawasan Falls is the most adrenaline-pumping adventure to be had in the Philippines.

Whether it’s your first time canyoneering or not, the Kawasan Falls experience is not to be missed on your South Cebu itinerary!

Kawasan Falls is located just 45 minutes drive from Moalboal in South Cebu.

I recommend pre-booking a  Kawasan Falls Tour Package online with Viator which includes return transfers from your accommodation in Moalboal so you won’t need to worry about the logistics.

Upon arriving at the Kawasan Canyoneering Headquarters, we met our guide Raul who got us fitted into the required safety equipment such as water shoes, life jackets, and helmets.

We took a ride on the back of a motorbike to the top of the mountain and before we knew it we were completely submerged in the first rock pool.

Soon after, Raul made us sit down at the edge of a one-meter cliff before he gently pushed us backward over a small set of falls into another rock pool below.

At this point, I knew we were in for an epic adventure!

We then continued navigating our way through knee-deep water that was as clear as crystal. The water trail took us through some amazing caves and natural rock slides.

There were also numerous cliff jumps ranging anywhere from three meters up to fourteen meters.

Do note that if you are afraid of heights you’ve always got the option to walk around the cliffs instead of jumping.

When you reach the end of the canyon it will bring you to the  famous Kawasan Falls .

You can spend as much time as you like at this tourist spot in Cebu South as there are about five different levels of waterfalls and several big cliff jumps to keep you entertained.

Full Blog Post → Kawasan Falls Canyoneering

KAWASAN FALLS CANYONEERING TOUR

The best way to visit is to join the Kawasan Falls and Canyoneering Day Tour !

It includes transportation, lunch, all fees, snorkeling with sharks, the Sumilon Sandbar, and a fun guide!

OSMENA PEAK 

Osmeña Peak is most famous for being the highest point on Cebu Island and one of the must-see places to visit in South Cebu!

Due to Osmeña Peak being so popular, the best time to visit is early in the morning for sunrise, and this way you will beat the crowds.

If you would like to book a tour to Osmena Peak there is one that I can highly recommend which also includes the famous Kawasan Falls.

It’s a full-day tour that starts in Cebu City with a hotel pick-up, a guided tour to Osmena Peak plus Kawasan Falls, and then returning back to Cebu City.

If you visit Osmena Peak without a tour the entrance fee is 30 pesos. From the jump-off point, the hike to Osmena Peak is a short fifteen to twenty minutes along a narrow, rocky path passing by thinly forested areas and farmer’s crops.

What can you expect at Osmena Peak? One of the most beautiful Cebu south tourist spots… that’s what!!

At 1,013 meters above sea level, Osmena Peak boasts panoramic views of the coastlines on both sides of South Cebu and of course, the most fascinating hill formations that you will have likely never seen before.

These interesting rocks, hills, peaks, whatever you want to call them are other-worldly and it boggles me as to how they came to be.

From the summit of Osmena, these dominant peaks are seemingly endless as they stretch across the land like the spine of a Stegosaurus dinosaur.

Some say these rolling hills are reminiscent of the Chocolate Hills in Bohol as the landscape is quite similar, though each of these spots is unique to its location.

In the deep valleys below Osmena Peak in Cebu, you can see vividly green fields of farmer’s crops and on a clear day, you can spot the neighboring islands of Negros and Bohol.

Full Blog Post → Osmena Peak

CASINO PEAK

Another tourist spot Cebu South offer is the Casino Peak hike, often referred to as Lugsangan Peak, is an underrated South Cebu tourist spot.

If you are planning to visit Osmena Peak, I highly recommend taking the time to check out Casino Peak as well. Chances are you might even like this viewpoint better and I guarantee there will be fewer people at Lugsangan Peak, with a view that is equally as amazing!

After you pay the 30 pesos entrance fee, It’s a short ten-minute hike to the summit of Casino Peak where you’ll be welcomed with panoramic views of nearby rolling hills and pristine coastline below.

Along the trail, you’ll likely see some goats grazing in the long grass and when you reach the plateau at the top, there is a crop field with many rows of cabbages which I later found out belonged to the landowners.

You may think you have arrived at the top when you reach this point of the trek and I also thought the same because the trail isn’t clearly marked.

However, continue navigating your way around the rocky outcrop on the right-hand side and you’ll find the path to the Casino Peak summit.

The last section of the hike is a bit of a scramble up the rocks where we had to get our hands dirty but it was all worth it when we reached the summit of Casino Peak!

I must admit, I have never seen a viewpoint quite like the one from Casino Peak and I highly recommend adding it to your list of South Cebu tourist spots to see!

There is a narrow ridge along the top of Casino Peak that you can walk across but do so at your own risk and please watch your step.

Full Blog Post → Casino Peak

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BINALAYAN HIDDEN FALLS

Binalayan Falls, also referred to as Binalayan Hidden Falls, is one of the best Cebu waterfalls and I highly recommend adding it to your list!

Binalayan Falls is located in Samboan in South Cebu. From Oslob, it’s a 30-minute drive and from Moalboal it’s approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes drive to reach Binalayan Falls.

There are half a dozen waterfalls in Samboan, South Cebu so if you plan it right you can visit more than one waterfall in one day.

An ideal one-day South Cebu itinerary from Moalboal is to first visit Aguinid Falls, secondly Binalayan Hidden Waterfalls, and thirdly Dau Falls.

The Binalayan Falls entrance fee is 60 pesos which includes a guide and there is also a 10 pesos parking fee. Tipping your guide is completely up to you, but somewhere between 50–100 pesos would do.

There are a number of water crossings on the way to the main set of falls at Binalayan so it’s best to wear a pair of water shoes or flip-flops because your feet will get wet.

The first tier at Binalayan Falls features a shallow crystalline rock pool, a rest area with some make-shift benches and a tire swing hung from a tree.

It’s definitely worth taking a short break here in this tranquil little section of the trek.

The main falls at Binalayan Waterfall boast a 50ft tall rock face and the flow of water is divided into three separate streams that fill the basin beneath.

There is a cave behind the falls from which you can climb up and jump, but it’s best to let your guide go first to show you how it’s done.

The water is around two meters deep so I wouldn’t recommend diving headfirst. I touched the sandy bottom with my feet when I jumped, even with my knees bent.

There is also a range of cliff-jumping spots on the left-hand side of the falls, but even this is a bit sketchy due to the pool below being relatively shallow.

Only jump from a height you feel comfortable with, even if the guide encourages you to jump from a higher level just say no.

Apart from cliff jumping, you can hang out in the crystalline waters at the base of Binalayan Falls and explore the natural caves behind the falls.

Full Blog Post → Binalayan Hidden Falls

SWIMMING WITH WHALE SHARKS

Swimming with whale sharks is the main tourist attraction in South Cebu. Even though it’s a controversial activity it is also a very unique experience.

The Oslob Whale Shark experience is rated as one of the best places to swim with whale sharks in the Philippines.

I personally booked my  Cebu Whale Shark Tour online in advance with Viator.

This particular tour is the most top-rated Oslob Whale Shark Tour in Cebu with great reviews.

Every morning between the hours of 6 am and 12 pm, local Filipino fishermen feed the whale sharks close to the shore.

Small wooden boats then chauffeur tourists out to where it’s possible to jump in the water and swim with the whale sharks.

The Oslob whale shark watching area is no further than 50 meters from the beach. Before you know it you will arrive at the designated spot and the boatman will tell you to jump into the water.

As soon as you dive off the boat you will encounter these beautiful gentle giants face to face just beneath the surface.

A common question that gets asked is if it’s safe to go swimming with whale sharks in Cebu and the answer is Yes, 100%.

Even though whale sharks are the biggest fish in the ocean that can grow up to 32ft and weigh 200 tonnes, they are very humble creatures and there’s nothing to be afraid of.

The Cebu whale sharks activity has been controversial since it started. I would much rather see the whale sharks in their natural habitat without the feeding of them and without crowds of tourists.

However, the community in Oslob seems to be working hard to control and educate the crowds, and limit impacts on the whale sharks.

Full Blog Post → Swimming With Whale Sharks In Cebu

SUMILON ISLAND

Sumilon Island is yet another one of the best South Cebu tourist spots just 20 minutes by boat from Oslob. It’s the best day trip or overnight stay you can do when exploring South Cebu.

The only access to Sumilon Island is by boat which departs daily from Mainland Bancogon in Oslob to Sumilon Island at 8:00 am, 9:30 am, and 11:00 am.

The return boat from Sumilon Island to Mainland Bancogo departs at 12:00 pm, 1:30 pm, 3:30 pm, and 5:00 pm.

I recommend purchasing the Bluewater Sumilon Day Pass online in advance with Viator which gives you access to all of the facilities at Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort such as the infinity pool, private beach area, freshwater lagoon, and restaurant.

The Bluewater Sumilon Day Pass also includes other activities on Sumilon Island such as snorkeling, Sumilon sandbar, hiking trails, and return boat transfers from Oslob.

If you wish to spend a night on Sumilon Island, there is only one accommodation on the island and that is the Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort .

This 4-star resort features its very own private beach, a freshwater lagoon, an outdoor infinity pool, 2 restaurants, glamping tents, beachside cottages, and private villas!

The Sumilon Island sandbar is the most iconic attraction on the island and the best spot to watch the sunset!

There was only one other couple on the Sumilon sandbar when I arrived, and that was it. Sumilon Island really proves itself as one of the best-kept Cebu tourist spots!

Sumilon Island sandbar is best visited at low tide when there is more exposed sand, though it is also just as good on high tide in my opinion.

Fine white sand and crystalline waters are what make the Sumilon sandbar so pristine.

Definitely stick around on the Sumilon sandbar for sunset because as I said earlier it’s the best location on the island to watch the last rays of the sun as it sets over the horizon. 

Full Blog Post → Sumilon Island

Capture All Your Adventures!

I’m sure y’all know by now that GoPro’s are arguably the best action cameras on the planet!

The new GoPro HERO 11 boasts 5.3K video, 27MP photo, HyperSmooth stabilization, and waterproof up to 10m!

My visit to Dao Falls in Samboan was  low-key one of the best adventures I had in South Cebu and I highly recommend adding this epic South Cebu tourist spot to your list of places to visit!

So what is so unique about Dao Waterfall? Well, to start with, it is recognized as the tallest set of falls in the Samboan region and secondly, the jungle trail trek to get to the main set of falls is an epic adventure in itself. Convinced?!

The entrance fee to Dao Falls is 60 pesos which includes a guide and the parking fee is an additional 10 pesos.

Trekking to Dau Falls from the parking lot takes around twenty to thirty minutes including stops for photos. It isn’t a difficult trek by any means though do note that your feet will get wet along this jungle trail.

In most parts, it requires walking through knee-deep water and I recommend bringing a pair of  slip-on waterproof shoes  for these sections.

The first part of the trek to Dao Falls is a concrete staircase with around 200 steps that leads directly down into the valley and once you reach the bottom, this is where the real adventure begins!

An impressive bamboo suspension bridge surrounded by coconut palms stretches across the river and on the other side is the beginning of the jungle trail to Dau Waterfall.

Vines cover the canyon walls and blue Gatorade-colored waters cascade seamlessly past us as we navigated our way toward Dao Waterfall.

The adventurous hike to Dao Falls, in my opinion, is what makes this Cebu south tourist spot so unique.

There are many turquoise rock pools along the way that are well worth stopping at for a quick dip and this is where you’ll likely get your best photos.

When you reach the top you’ll be graced with the epic sight of Dao Falls which towers 50 meters tall above the large catch basin.

The pools at the base of the falls aren’t quite as blue as the ones on the way up but it is still a worthy spot for a swim to cool off after the hike.

Full Blog Post → Dao Falls

The BEST Hotel in South Cebu

Need a place to stay? Dolphin House Resort is conveniently located in Moalboal.

Whether you’re here to explore the sights or relax in comfort, Dolphin House Resort is a great option.

AGUINID FALLS

Aguinid Falls Cebu is one of the  most unique and exciting waterfalls in South Cebu. The multi-tiered Aguinid Falls is one heck of an adventure.

It’s not quite as popular as Kawasan Falls just up the road, but the word is spreading quickly about this awesome tourist destination in Cebu that supports eco-tourism.

Aguinid Falls is located in the small village of Samboan in South Cebu. From Oslob, it’s a 30-minute drive and from Moalboal it’s approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes drive to reach Aguinid Falls.

The entrance fee to Aguinid Falls is 300 pesos which includes compulsory safety equipment (wet shoes, helmet, and life jacket), two guides, and also the tip for the guides.

It’s definitely not the cheapest Cebu waterfall I’ve been to but the money spent was well worth the adventure!

As I mentioned earlier, Aguinid Falls in Cebu is a multi-tiered waterfall with eight levels of falls to be exact. Eight freakin’ waterfalls, can you believe it?!

Although the locals say there are eight levels of falls, only six levels are currently accessible as they are still working to improve the trail to the higher levels.

This is not your typical waterfall where you take a short trek in, go for a dip and take photos, but rather an epic and very physical adventure that involves jumping, climbing ropes, and navigating your way through the cascading falls.

It took us around two hours to complete the Aguinid Falls tour but that included many stops to take photos. For the average person, it would take around one hour from start to finish.

Full Blog Post → Aguinid Falls

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INAMBAKAN FALLS

Inambakan Falls in Ginatilan is at the top of my best Cebu waterfalls list for a couple of good reasons!

One is the blue Gatorade-colored springs and jungle surrounds at this location and two is because there are multiple levels at Inambakan Falls which makes this one of the most epic South Cebu tourist spots to explore.

Inambakan Falls is located in the small village of Ginatilan in South Cebu. The falls are best visited from the nearby beach town of Oslob, which is approximately a 45-minute drive.

You can also visit Inambakan Falls from Moalboal and this drive takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes.

The entrance fee at Inambakan Falls is 50 pesos and an additional 10 pesos for parking.

The hike down to the main falls takes no more than 5 minutes from the jump-off point and the trail winds upstream until it emerges at the base of the 100-foot-tall Inambakan Falls.

My favorite feature of Inambakan Falls is the milky blue pool of water in the catch basin which gets its color from the limestone cliffs that surround the falls.

Once you’ve taken a dip in the milky blue waters at the main set of falls, continue hiking along the trail and up the stairs to the next few levels of these Ginatilan Falls.

You can stop in at the second level of Inambakan which features a shallow rock pool right at the top of the main set of falls.

The level up from here was my favorite because there are several cliff-jumping spots into a number of refreshing rock pools.

Continuing on, I followed the trail up a little higher to the top level of Inambakan Falls which features a large swimming hole and more cliff-jumping spots.

The lush jungle that surrounds the area contrasts beautifully with the water and adds to the tranquility of this epic South Cebu tourist spot.

Full Blog Post → Inambakan Falls

TUMALOG FALLS

Tumalog Falls in Oslob is one of the most popular tourist spots on the island!

A visit to Tumalog Falls is typically combined with the Oslob Whale Shark Tour which is another great activity you can add to your itinerary!

There is one tour that I can recommend which is a full-day trip from Cebu City and it includes swimming with whale sharks in Oslob and a visit to Tumalog Falls.

The Tumalog Falls entrance fee is 50 pesos if you plan to visit without a tour and the opening times are Monday to Sunday from 6 am to 5 pm.

Tumalog Falls is quite unique, featuring a mellow curtain of water falling down the face of a monolithic limestone cliff. There is a large swimming area at the base of the falls where you can take a dip to cool off.

The color of the water in the basin is that classic milky blue tinge that the Philippines is most famous for!

Tumalog Falls Oslob is surrounded by tall bamboo and mossy walls adding to the jungle vibes that you will find here.

A large cave can also be found on the left-hand side of the falls if you wish to explore deeper and get another cool perspective of Tumalog Falls from inside.

There are change rooms and toilet facilities for guests to use and also a small sari sari store if you wish to buy some water and light snacks.

I recommend spending around 1 hour at Tumalog Waterfalls before continuing, as it’s arguably the best place to unwind in Cebu South.

Full Blog Post → Tumalog Falls

SWIM WITH SARDINES IN MOALBOAL

Another incredible tourist spot in South Cebu is the Sardine Run in Moalboal is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and not to be missed!

Imagine swimming with millions of flashing silver sardines as they circulate around you in an almost hypnotic spectacle.

The Sardine Run is located in Moalboal in South Cebu and the schools of fish can be found just a stone’s throw from the shoreline on the edge of the reef.

A common spot where the sardines gather is just offshore from Panagsama Beach, the main beach in Moalboal.

To go swimming with the sardines all you need to do is rent a mask and snorkel from your accommodation or from a store in town and swim out just 30-50 meters to where you will find the masses of sardines swimming around.

The sardines move around in spherical shapes known as bait balls to trick their predators and they tend to stick close to the surface where the water temperature is warmer.

They might be intimidating and scary at first but all you need to do is relax and marvel at the sardines as they move around in large schools.

Swimming with the sardines in Moalboal is one of the best South Cebu tourist attractions not to be missed!

WHITE BEACH MOALBOAL

If you’re in Cebu to chill, White Beach Moalboal is definitely one place to add to your itinerary.

This stunning stretch of coastline is just a short 15-minute drive from Moalboal, and it’s the perfect place to catch a spectacular sunset.

While it can get pretty busy on the weekends with both locals and tourists, there’s more than enough sand to go around. And if you want to avoid the crowds, just head there on a weekday.

While you’re there, be sure to check out the locals selling souvenirs and sea urchins. But there’s plenty to do besides just soaking up the sun.

You can swim, paddleboard, and snorkel in the water – How cool does that sound?

Also, it’s worth noting that there are several hotels near White Beach in Moalboal, so why not stay for the night and see the sunset after a day exploring around?

I personally recommend Bonita Oasis Beach Resort , which is just a few minutes away and is modern, clean, and has a delicious breakfast in the morning! How’s that for a tourist spot South Cebu?

Next up is Bojo River and Hermit’s Cove in Aloguinsan, but let me tell you about the river first and then the cove in the next section.

This natural paradise is a bit of a drive, about an hour north of Moalboal. And here’s a little secret: since it’s farther north than most South Cebu tourist spots, it makes for an easy day trip from Cebu City, only a four-hour round trip.

The Bojo River project is an eco-friendly mangrove, with a grand entrance along a bamboo boardwalk through dense Nipa palms.

The entrance fee is 400 pesos per person, and that includes a river tour with a local guide. Alternatively, you can get the premium package for 750 pesos per person and that includes lunch, the river tour, and endless laughter!

What I like about this Southern Cebu tourist spot is that the guide explains everything about the mangrove, from the fish and birds to the mangrove and the project itself.

After the boat ride, you’ll head to Hermit’s Cove, a stunning beach not far from the mangrove.

All in all, this is one of the best things to do in South Cebu!

HERMIT’S COVE

Picture this: A hidden gem of a beach, with turquoise waters that reveal an underwater paradise of corals.

That’s what you’ll find at Hermit’s Cove, a secluded spot to the left of the Bojo River mouth.

The adventure to get there is half the fun, as you can either visit at the end of your Bojo River cruise or hike down from the hilltop.

Once you arrive, you’ll see picnic huts where you can have a snack (there are plenty of sellers around, in case you didn’t have lunch at the Bojo River) and relax.

The catch? It gets pretty crowded no matter the time of the day you visit, which isn’t great but you still get to enjoy.

Also, keep in mind that the coral is pretty sharp, so the beach isn’t the best for swimming, but you can definitely stay and work on your tan!

MANTAYUPAN FALLS

When it comes to waterfalls, bigger is always better, and Mantayupan Falls in Barili definitely lives up to that expectation.

At almost 100 metres tall, this towering waterfall is the tallest in all of Cebu, making it a must-see when exploring South Cebu.

Best of all, it’s super accessible, so you don’t have to hike for hours like on Casino or Osmena Peak. From the entrance, it’s only a short stroll before you’re standing at the edge of the base.

Also, it’s relatively cheap all in all, as the entrance fee costs 200 pesos per person, and that includes the parking, a life jacket and the conservation fee.

Note that wearing a life jacket is mandatory if you take a dip.

Apart from that, there’s an on-site restaurant where you can order local Filipino dishes, and that is great if you plan to spend a couple of hours or more here!

WHERE TO STAY IN SOUTH CEBU

The best area to stay to visit all of the tourist spots in the South of Cebu is Moalboal which is located on the South East Coast of Cebu Island.

Moalboal has hundreds of accommodation options to choose from, so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay to fit the needs of budget backpackers, luxury travelers, and everyone in between.

See the list of accommodations below that I personally recommend before of after enjoying all the tourist spots in Cebu South:

Luxury: Dolphin House Resort Moalboal

Dolphin House is the best luxury accommodation in Moalboal, located a stone’s throw away from the ocean. Features included a pool, a restaurant and bar, free wifi, and ocean views.

There are double rooms, triple rooms, family rooms, and bungalows available at Dolphin House Resort.

It’s recommended for families, friends, or couples looking for a luxurious stay.

Mid Range: Pescadores Seaview Suites

One of the most recommended places to stay in Moalboal, Pescadores Suites offers double rooms, twin rooms, and a garden villa.

There is an outdoor swimming pool and sun terrace, restaurant, mini-market, table tennis, billiards, board games, karaoke room, and wellness spa.

It’s a great place to stay for friends or couples.

Budget: Chief Mau Hostel

The best budget accommodation in Moalboa and is centrally located just minutes from the beach.

Chief Mau Hostel offers dorm rooms and private rooms with free wifi. The owner Trish is super lovely and goes out of her way to make all of her guests feel welcome and comfortable.

There is a shared lounge with hammocks, a billiards table, and an in-house restaurant and bar serving up the best Western food in Moalboal.

For solo travelers, couples, or friends on a budget, this is the spot for you.

For More Options In Moalboal, Search On Booking.com

Best tours in cebu, what to pack for the philippines.

When visiting the Philippines, here is a list of items I highly recommend bringing with you:

Must-Have Travel Essentials

Hidden money wallet.

Keep your cash and other valuables safe with this anti-theft hidden money wallet!

Reusable Water Bottle

The GRAYL GeoPress is the best reusable bottle that allows you to purify water from anywhere!

Travel Backpack

The Nomatic Travel Backpack has 20+ innovative features, perfect for everyday use!

Quick-Dry Travel Towel

The most compact, lightweight, and quick-dry towel for traveling!

Portable PowerBank

Keep your phone, laptop, and accessories charged while you’re on the go with the Anker PowerBank!

More Philippines Travel Guides

Click the button below to view all articles related to the Philippines!

FINAL THOUGHTS – SOUTH CEBU TOURIST SPOTS

I hope you enjoyed reading this article and if you have any questions,   please leave me a comment below and I will get back to you as soon as I can.

For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations about the South of Cebu tourist spots to our awesome community.

TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or it’s your first trip overseas, here are some useful travel resources to help you kick-start your next adventure!

Search and book accommodation worldwide.

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THANKS FOR READING

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10 Top Destinations in Southern Luzon, Philippines

Packed with hills as well as volcanoes that keep an eye out imperiously over the coastlines as well as islands lining its coasts, Southern Luzon is a pleasure to discover, with a variety of fantastic points for you to see as well as do. The stunning Mayon Volcano controls the area with its flawlessly in proportion cone that so considerably sticks out versus the intense blue skies, yet this lovely component of the Philippines has a lot more covert treasures for you to uncover.

With lots of unblemished as well as pristine nature for site visitors to submerse themselves in, you can be roaming around remote islands such as Catanduanes one min as well as be indulging in the impressive views of Taal Volcano as well as Pagsanjan Falls the following, while whale sharks as well as bountiful aquatic life lie simply offshore.

Map of Southern Luzon, the Philippines

Existing at the foot of the stunning Mount Mayon, Legazpi is embeded in an attractive area on the coasts of the Albay Gulf, with an attractive beachfront for you to walk along. Completely cone-shaped fit, the energetic volcano is spectacular. Its mild inclines use a myriad of fantastic exterior tasks, with walking, ziplining, as well as climbing up all prominent activities.

While its beautiful setup as well as closeness to Mount Mayon are what bring in many individuals to Legazpi, there are likewise a variety of intriguing views in the area, such as San Raphael’s Church as well as the Cagsawa Damages. Along with this, site visitors can likewise go diving or snorkeling offshore, as well as the country’s abundant society as well as heritage is showcased at celebrations such as Ibalong Celebration as well as Daragong Magayon Celebration, both of which are kept in community.

As it is usually forgotten by site visitors to Southern Luzon, the island of Catanduanes is a terrific area to head to if you intend to tip off the ruined course as well as appreciate some superb views with hardly one more spirit visible. Populated along its wild as well as tough coast are some drowsy little angling towns, in addition to some lovely, remote coastlines. Its rainforest-coated inside is residence to some outstanding falls as well as caverns.

In spite of its numerous marvels, the major factor that individuals see Catanduanes is for its popular ‘Majestic Wave,’ which brings in web surfers from throughout the globe; the most effective waves can be located along the eastern coastline. One point to keep in mind when going to Catanduanes is that, although it is unquestionably a wonderful area, the island exists at the heart of the tropical cyclone belt; because of this, hurricanes can strike at any type of factor throughout the year.

Lined with rugged high cliffs stressed by lovely white sand coastlines, the Caramoan Peninsula truly is impressive. It ought to come as not a surprise to discover that the renowned television program Survivor was shot on its amazing coastlines, which are backed by rainforest-covered hillsides as well as hills.

Because of its remote area, the peninsula has plenty of incredibly unblemished nature, as well as the most effective means to take a trip in between its spreadings of hotels as well as coastlines is by watercraft. Jetting throughout the blue-green water amongst tough islands as well as jungle-clad islands to a picturesque coastline is an amazing experience. When it comes time to leave, you’ll discover it tough to tear on your own far from the extraordinary views.

Containing Guintinua, Maculabo, as well as Tinaga islands as well as a spreading of smaller sized islands, the Calaguas Islands are a progressively prominent vacationer location – as well as it’s not tough to see why. Honored with a wealth of wonderful white sand coastlines – of which Mahabang Buhangin coastline on Tinaga is the unquestionable emphasize – the islands truly are picture-perfect. Delicately persuading hand trees as well as gleaming blue-green waters line their gold coasts.

With a variety of superb exterior tasks such as swimming, snorkeling, diving, as well as searching available, a see to the Calaguas Islands can be as relaxing or adrenaline-filled as you make it.

Protruding right into the sea from in between the bays of Balayan as well as Batangas that exist to either side of it, Mabini is a really positive area to invest time. The community is specifically prominent with snorkelers as well as diving divers, as the waters bordering the tiny peninsula include life. With great deals of brilliantly tinted fish as well as corals reefs on program, diving in its waters is a wonderful experience, as well as there are a myriad of fantastic dive areas located close by.

If checking out the undersea globe isn’t your point, you can constantly go treking in capitals that populate the peninsula, take a beautiful watercraft journey around the bays, or merely lounge on among the wonderful coastlines. Along with this, the stunning Taal Volcano isn’t away if you’re seeking a remarkable as well as very easy excursion.

Spurting out from the cliff, the effective jet of water that is the Pagsanjan Falls is a little underwhelming to see prima facie, yet it is not without factor that it is among one of the most renowned as well as most prominent vacationer destinations in Southern Luzon. Hemmed in by looming high cliffs, the drops are just obtainable by watercraft. The 90-minute trip via beautiful canyons listed below rainforest-coated high cliff deals with truly is as remarkable as they come.

Therefore, the Pagsanjan Falls are a little frustrating in the beginning look – till you go into the Evil one’s Cavern, that is. Found straight behind the falls, the cavern is an exciting cacophony of audio as well as spray. Seeing the turbulent waters dive right into the swimming pool right before you from up high is a breathtaking experience.

An amazing area to see, Taal Volcano is well worth looking into if you have the opportunity; there is practically no place else like it in the world. Existing near the center of Taal Lake, the island of Taal Volcano climbs considerably prior to you. Within its caldera, you can discover the shimmering waters of a crater lake.

A lot more amazing is the rough outcrop of Vulcan Factor that sticks out from the lake, which suggests you are staring upon an island in a lake on an island in a lake on an island. This extraordinary task of nature is amazing, as well as treking to the top of the caldera is well worth the initiative for the breathtaking sights of the bordering views.

Forgeting the wonderful Taal Lake, Tagaytay is among one of the most prominent cities to see in the Philippines with both vacationers as well as residents alike. Its trendy hill environment provides site visitors some welcome break from the pressure, warmth as well as moisture of close-by Manila. As it is surrounded by great deals of hillsides as well as hills, there is tons of wonderful views to appreciate, with Taal Volcano being the unquestionable emphasize.

With a lot nature close by, Tagaytay has great deals of walks as well as routes for you to do. Along with its natural marvels, the city has some intriguing historic as well as social sites to take a look at. The Mabini Temple, Individuals’s Park overhead, as well as Skies Cattle ranch theme park are the choice of the number.

When a drowsy, laidback angling town, the seaside community of Donsol currently hums with life as diving divers as well as snorkelers concern swim with the well known whale sharks that are located simply offshore. Maturing to 12 meters long, the mild titans are stunning to see up close, as well as swimming with them truly is a remarkable experience.

While there is not all that much to see or perform in community, Donsol is a positive adequate area to invest a number of days, as well as the bordering location has tons of fantastic walks as well as cycle flights for you to do. Although lots of people mostly concern see the whale sharks, one more extremely remarkable point to do is to take a firefly watercraft scenic tour as well as enjoy the evening illuminate as a thousand tiny dots stress the darkness.

Increasing wonderfully from in the middle of the stunning countryside as well as landscapes bordering it, Mayon Volcano looks definitely extraordinary, as well as seeing it is merely a should when in Southern Luzon. Looming to an excellent 2,463 meters, Mount Mayon controls its environments, as well as the energetic stratovolcano is extensively thought about to have ‘the best cone’ because of its symmetrical cone-shaped form.

Existing at the heart of a national forest that’s called after it, the volcano has a variety of fantastic hiking routes as well as courses for you to discover; the greater you go, the much more amazing the sights are. Straying around the countryside bordering Mayon Volcano is likewise well worth the initiative. The volcano distant is picture-perfect, as well as you’re sure ahead away with great deals of superb breaks of its mist-shrouded optimal.

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19 BEST SOUTH CEBU TOURIST SPOTS

Feb 15, 2022 | Philippines , Featured

When it comes to adventure, South Cebu seriously has it all. Known for its Gatorade blue waterfalls, whale shark encounter and beautiful beaches, it is almost impossible to ever run out of South Cebu tourist spots to explore. Whether you decide to stay for 2 days or 2 weeks, you can bet you’ll be blown away by the incredible attractions on offer.

We have spent a lot of time in South Cebu over the years, so we like to think we know a thing or two about the top places to visit beyond the most famous destinations. Not only will we share our pick of the 17 best tourist spots in South Cebu, but also how to get there, what to pack and where to stay.

WHERE IS SOUTH CEBU

South Cebu is — you guessed it — in the south of the island of Cebu, in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines. It’s become hugely popular amongst the backpacking community mainly because of the ultra IG famous Kawasan Falls . Most visitors will stay in the bustling tourist town of Moalboal and explore the area from there, or head further down south to Oslob . However, Moalboal is definitely the more developed of the two.

HOW TO GET TO SOUTH CEBU

It’s around 3 hours from Cebu City to Moalboal, so the quickest way would be to rent a private car or van, but we’re all about budgeting. If you’re a budget backpacker like us then you can get a public bus headed to Moalboal from the Cebu South Bus Terminal . It’ll cost you around ₱150-200 (USD $4) one way. Once you’re in Moalboal you’ll then want to rent a scooter to get around South Cebu freely, which you can usually find for around ₱400 (USD $8).

WHAT TO BRING TO THE SOUTH CEBU TOURIST SPOTS

Prepare for your trip to South Cebu with our must-have travel essentials. (click for prices)

• Snorkel, mask & fins
• Quick-dry microfiber travel towel
• Insulated water bottle
• Hiking Sandals
• Waterproof backpack & phone case

If you’re interested in photography and/or videography this is the gear we can’t live without:

Professional camera: Sony a7iv (click for price) Action camera: GoPro HERO10 Black (click for price) Drone: DJI Air 2s (click for price)

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• Kawasan Falls & Badian Canyoneering
• Alegria Canyoneering
• Aguinid Falls
• Wonderfalls Canyoneering
• Inambakan Falls
• Cambais Falls
• Mantayupan Falls
• Tumalog Falls
• Oslob Whale Sharks
• Sumilon Island
• Osmeña Peak
• Casino Peak
• Moalboal Sardine Run
• Pescador Island
• Turtle Bay Moalboal
• White Beach/Basdaku Beach
• Hermit’s Cove

We’ve spent as little as 2 days and as long as 3 weeks in South Cebu, so it’s really up to you how long you want to stay. If you’re pressed for time and you’re wondering what are the main South Cebu tourist spots you absolutely cannot miss, then make sure you check out Kawasan Falls & Badian Canyoneering , Oslob Whale Sharks and the Moalboal Sardine Run .

RELATED ARTICLE:  28 Best Cebu Tourist Spots

1. KAWASAN FALLS & BADIAN CANYONEERING

Let’s kick this list off with the gem of South Cebu tourist spots, the mighty Kawasan Falls. If you only do one thing during your entire trip to South Cebu, let it be this. Affectionately known as the Gatorade factory, Kawasan Falls is recognised the world over for its unreal blue water. Located just 30 minutes from Moalboal, it’s an easy day trip for travellers staying in the central tourist hub of Moalboal.

You’ve got two options when it comes to visiting Kawasan Falls, walk in and simply experience the main waterfall or spend several hours canyoneering down the river. Having done it multiple times now, we absolutely recommend completing the Badian canyoneering trek to Kawasan Falls. It’s the most epic adventure you can have in South Cebu and something you cannot miss out on.

FULL BLOG POST: KAWASAN FALLS GUIDE

With life jackets, helmets and guides at the ready, you can look forward to jumping, climbing, sliding and swimming along the canyon. The entire experience is breathtaking and exhilarating, as you wind through the narrow canyon crevices and marvel at the turquoise blue water. After 3 hours of exhausting exploration, the river will eventually lead you to the grande finale — Kawasan Falls .

FULL BLOG POST: BADIAN CEBU CANYONEERING GUIDE

2. ALEGRIA CANYONEERING

If the Badian canyoneering trek isn’t enough adrenaline for you, then you might want to pair it with the Alegria canyoneering trail. These two treks used to be connected to form one giant all-day river adventure that ended at Kawasan Falls, but after a little local government dispute, the two treks are now completely separated.

It’s the same river that flows through the Badian canyoneering course, however with different landscapes comes different awe-inspiring views and adrenaline-pumping challenges. The Alegria canyoneering trek takes between 3-4 hours to complete and is jam-packed full of jumps both big and small. If you’re not a fan of heights, fear not, there are always options around the jumps, but you best believe your guides will try their hardest to peer pressure you into the jumps.

After completing the course we exited the canyon which was honestly the most exhausting part. We ended back at the briefing centre where we returned our jackets and helmets then headed to the Badian briefing centre to meet our new guides and get suited up in new gear. If you’ve got an entire day and a lot of energy, then we definitely recommend starting with Alegria canyoneering and continuing all the way through to Badian and Kawasan Falls for the full experience.

FULL BLOG POST: ALEGRIA CANYONEERING GUIDE

3. AGUINID FALLS

One of our favourite South Cebu tourist spots is the epic Aguinid Falls. Located in the little town of Samboan, it’s about an hour’s drive from Moalboal or 30 minutes from Oslob, but well worth the drive. So much more than just one stunning waterfall, this majestic cascade is an adventurer’s playground.

Unlike the Badian and Alegria canyoneering courses where you traverse downriver, Aguinid Falls is an upward climb over eight levels of unique rock formations. From the entrance area you’ll be assigned at least one guide to take you through the course, as well as a life jacket and helmet.

It’ll take a couple hours to get through the entire trek, with each level more stunning than the last. The true beauty of Aguinid Falls is that each level offers something different. From turquoise pools and cliff jumps to natural showers and rockclimbing, there’s a little bit of everything.

FULL BLOG POST: AGUINID FALLS GUIDE

4. WONDERFALLS CANYONEERING

If you thought we were done with canyoneering in South Cebu, you’d be mistaken. One of the lesser-known courses, but just as exhilarating, is Wonderfalls Canyoneering in Alegria. The start of Wonderfalls kicks off at the same information centre as the main Alegria Canyoneering course, but from there we took a different route on motorbikes down to the river.

The action kicks off at the jump-off point from an old bridge, where we flipped our way into the river. Truthfully, Zowie walked down and around to a lower level to jump in, so if you’re not a fan of heights at least you know there are other options. The current was particularly strong and the water level high as it had been raining for days on end, but that just added to the excitement!

FULL BLOG POST: WONDERFALLS CANYONEERING GUIDE

We spent the next 4 hours jumping, swimming and floating our way downriver, stopping to take photos along the way of the incredible landscape. The tree canopy was so dense we could barely see the sky, and yet with so little light the water still managed to radiate a vibrant blue hue.

5. INAMBAKAN FALLS

Next up on the list is Inambakan Falls, one of our favourite South Cebu tourist spots. Located deep in the jungle of Ginatilan, about an hour from Moalboal, Inambakan Falls is a tropical paradise surrounded by dense foliage. The best part about Inambakan Falls is how easy it is to reach, both the drive and the hike. From the parking area it’s barely a 10-minute walk down a concrete staircase and upriver to the main falls.

Vibrant blue water cascades down the five levels of Inambakan Falls, with the bottom waterfall being the main and biggest attraction. We actually visited during the pandemic, so the falls were technically closed to visitors, but we were rebels with a cause and decided to explore nonetheless. Our trip was short but sweet, hiking up to the next two levels of Inambakan Falls. On a regular day you’ll be able to hire a guide to take you up to all five levels of the falls for a small fee which we recommend doing! The surrounding area has also been developed with picnic huts so you can pack some food and stay for lunch with a view.

FULL BLOG POST: INAMBAKAN FALLS GUIDE

6. CAMBAIS FALLS

Another day, another waterfall! Cambais Falls is a seriously breathtaking waterfall, also in the town of Alegria. For such a little town, it really was blessed with a high concentration of some of the best South Cebu tourist spots! With its own pin on Google Maps, Cambais Falls is fairly easy to find. From the parking area it’s only a short 15-minute walk upriver, past a handful of local houses before reaching the entrance area.

Just a few metres beyond the entrance is the lower level of Cambais Falls. This enormous swimming area features several waterfalls and rock formations, making it the perfect spot to swim and explore. From the first level you can either climb up and over the small waterfalls and continue upriver to the next falls, or hike around and pop out on top of the falls. Since the hike around was a new trail we decided to check it out.

We were welcomed by the rushing second level of Cambais Falls, which was particularly strong after a heavy onslaught of rain. This is more of an adventurous level, with different vantage points for jumping as well as a natural slide. If you visit when the water isn’t quite so hectic you can even climb up onto the falls and sit in a tub directly under the stream, which we were lucky enough to experience a couple years back.

In December 2021, there was a massive typhoon that swept across the Philippines, causing a lot of destruction.

This typhoon, Typhoon Odette, also completely reshaped the waterfalls at Cambais Falls as you can see in the photos above.

While the waterfall looks a lot different from it’s original look, it is still absolutely beautiful and worth visiting!

FULL BLOG POST: CAMBAIS FALLS GUIDE

7. MANTAYUPAN FALLS

Mantayupan Falls in Barili is truly a sight to behold. Standing tall at 98 metres, she takes the title for the tallest waterfall in Cebu, which is reason enough to add this beast to your South Cebu itinerary. It’s less than an hour’s drive from Moalboal to Barili, or around 2 hours from Cebu City.

The beauty of Mantayupan Falls is that it’s not far out of the Barili town centre and you can drive just about all the way up to the falls. From the entrance area it’s only a couple minutes walk to the majestic waterfall, no hiking involved. The waterfall plummets into the large basin below where you can swim in the refreshing jungle water. If you want to explore a little more, the main waterfall flows into a series of smaller falls below the hanging bridge.

FULL BLOG POST: MANTAYUPAN FALLS GUIDE

8. DAO FALLS

Next up is the spectacular Dao Falls, a popular South Cebu tourist spot about an hour from Moalboal, with plenty of signage from the highway and a Google Maps pin to lead the way. The adventure starts at the information centre where you’ll be given a helmet, life jacket and guide, and then you’ll head down into the canyon below. The hike is easy and the trail well established, but the bamboo bridge was one of the sketchiest we’ve experienced!

Dao Falls features the most unique landscape of all the falls we’ve been to in South Cebu with its iconic S-shaped channel of milky blue water. We hiked upriver for around 20 minutes before reaching the S part and it was just as magical as the first time we saw it. From the S it’s just a short climb up a makeshift staircase to Dao Falls.

As you approach Dao Falls you’ll notice it’s actually a three-tier waterfall, however, the main attraction is the 40-metre waterfall at the very top. We’re not 100% certain of the history of the area but based on how the rocks have been cut, Dao Falls used to be a quarry. The waterfall is constantly changing shape due to regular landslides, so keep in mind the Dao Falls of today may not be the Dao Falls of tomorrow.

FULL BLOG POST: DAO FALLS GUIDE

9. TUMALOG FALLS

Last waterfall but by no means least is Tumalog Falls, a mesmerising curtain waterfall in Oslob, South Cebu. Tumalog Falls is one of the most traversed waterfalls in the South, partly because of how easy it is to access, but mostly because of its proximity to the famous Oslob Whale Sharks (more about that later). What Tumalog Falls lacks in power, it makes up for in sheer height and beauty. The gentle spray of the water glitters in the sunshine and the milky blue basin is the perfect spot for a refreshing dip in paradise.

FULL BLOG POST: TUMALOG FALLS GUIDE

10. OSLOB WHALE SHARK EXPERIENCE

We’re switching it up from waterfalls and canyoneering with the second most visited South Cebu tourist attraction, the Oslob Whale Shark experience. Popular though it may be, the Oslob whale shark experience is not without controversy, but we’ll present you with the facts and let you decide if it’s something you want to do.

The Oslob whale shark experience is in — you guessed it — Oslob, which is a lot farther down south than Moalboal. The tours kick off bright and early, usually around 6am, so you’ll want to spend the night before in Oslob. The whale shark tour is quite the spectacle so you won’t have any trouble finding it, either on Google Maps or just by asking the locals.

You can book and pay for your tour at the briefing centre then sit down for a few moments while they explain the rules of a safe whale shark encounter. The main areas of contention surrounding the whale sharks are overcrowding and the practice of feeding them daily. It still has a long way to go to be considered ethical, however, the local government has implemented a lot of new rules and restrictions to make the experience better for everyone. Big fines apply so be sure to listen carefully. We go into detail about the rules and precautions in our full guide here .

Once you’re out on the water the boats will take you just offshore and from there you can jump on in. There’s nothing like the first glimpse of a whale shark underwater, so make sure you have your mask and snorkel at the ready. Whilst they look perfectly capable of swallowing a grown man whole, whale sharks are placid creatures who feed on plankton and small fish/shrimp. The whole encounter lasts no more than 30 minutes so be sure to make the most of it.

FULL BLOG POST: OSLOB WHALE SHARK GUIDE

11. SUMILON ISLAND

For the perfect day down south you can pair your Oslob whale shark experience with a trip out to Sumilon Island. Just a stone’s throw from the coast, it’ll only take you around 10 minutes by pump boat to get to Sumilon Island. The first thing you’ll notice as you approach the island is the sandbar right beside the dock. It makes for quite the welcome and we were dying to get out and explore the white sand and crystal clear blue water.

The island is privately owned by Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort, so when you book your tour you’ll get lunch included as well as access to the resort facilities. They have a brackish lagoon where you can fish for Tilapia, kayak and standup paddleboard. We gave these activities a go then headed back to the restaurant for lunch, followed by a tour of the island.

FULL BLOG POST: SUMILON ISLAND GUIDE

12. OSMEÑA PEAK

If you’re looking to switch things up from coastal activities and waterfalls then Osmeña Peak is one South Cebu tourist spot you can’t miss. It stands at 1013 metres as the highest point on the island of Cebu, however it’s an incredibly easy peak to summit when compared to other “highest points”.

Osmeña Peak is in the centre of the island, between Badian and Dalaguete. It’s best to get there as early as sunrise, which means travelling from Moalboal before dawn. We were in Cebu City the night before so we didn’t make it for sunrise which was a bummer as it meant missing out on the best lighting. Regardless, it was still a beautiful view even with cloud coverage.

Osmeña Peak has a few nicknames, like the Chocolate Hills of Cebu for its rolling hills and Little Baguio for its cooler climate. The trail was surrounded by cabbages which did give us Baguio vibes, and you might even meet a cabbage farmer on the way up.

The hike itself was an easy climb up a well-established trail that only took around 15 minutes all up. The view from the top was stunning, with limestone peaks covered in greenery (and cabbages!). If you have a drone, you don’t want to forget it, as the viewpoint makes for some stunning photos.

FULL BLOG POST: OSMEÑA PEAK GUIDE

13. CASINO PEAK

If you still have energy after hiking Osmeña Peak (which you should — it’s like, 15 minutes), then we recommend heading down the road a little farther to Casino Peak. Whilst it misses out on the “highest point” title, it’s actually our favourite of the two peaks. Without that claim to fame, it’s a lot less touristy which is just how we like it.

The trail is slightly more rugged and will take around 20 minutes, but it’s still easily accomplished in a pair of flip flops. We hiked amongst the cabbages (yep, more cabbages!) until we reached the top of Casino Peak. We personally think the view from Casino Peak is just a little bit more spectacular than Osmeña Peak, with rolling hills stretching out as far as the eye can see.

Casino Peak itself is a dinosaur-shaped spine with rough, rocky edges. If you’re afraid of heights, fear not, it’s wider than it looks with plenty of flat areas big enough for romantic picnics for two — which another couple were enjoying. We met another adventurer who was more than keen to run along the spine for a drone photo opp, so whilst him and Carson got their adrenaline pumping, Zowie third-wheeled the picnic. However you want to experience Casino Peak is up to you, but it’s definitely a South Cebu tourist spot you need to visit.

FULL BLOG POST: CASINO PEAK GUIDE

14. MOALBOAL SARDINE RUN

We’re heading back into the water to explore Moalboal’s most famous attraction, the Moalboal sardine run. This truly epic encounter is a South Cebu tourist spot you absolutely cannot miss, as it’s like no place else on earth. Sure, there are sardines elsewhere, but only in Moalboal can you wade out 30 metres from shore and swim with 10 million sardines, every single day of the year.

One of the best things about the Moalboal sardine run is that it’s entirely free if you have your own mask and know where to look. You’ll be able to find them a couple of hundred metres to the left of Panagsama Rd, just in front of Savedra Beach Resort. They hang out just below the surface so there’s no need to scuba dive to experience the Moalboal sardine run. It was surreal to swim through their school, watching them shapeshift and reflect the light like millions of mirrors.

Aside from sardines, you might even get a chance encounter with a turtle or two! The coast of Moalboal is teeming with underwater wildlife, and turtles are not uncommon in this area. We’ve even heard stories of rogue whale sharks passing through the area and other predatory fish that come to snack on the sardines.

FULL BLOG POST: MOALBOAL SARDINE RUN GUIDE

15. PESCADOR ISLAND

This one’s for the scuba divers! If you’re scuba certified — or would like to become scuba certified — Moalboal is a great place to dive. Just off the coast is a tiny island called Pescador, where the local dive resorts will bring their tourists to explore the underwater world.

We organised our tour through Quo Vadis Dive Resort, probably the most well-known and reputable dive resort in Moalboal. To book your own tour to Pescador Island, you can either arrange it through a Moalboal beach resort like Quo Vadis or book online at  GetYourGuide . Most tours will also then take you to the Moalboal sardine run afterwards, as they’re so close to each other.

The good news is, you don’t actually have to be scuba certified to enjoy a trip out to Pescador Island. Whilst Carson was able to scuba dive down to about 18 metres, Zowie hung about closer to the surface and was still able to see amazing marine life, including several turtles. No matter how you choose to explore Pescador Island, you’re bound to enjoy the experience!

FULL BLOG POST: PESCADOR ISLAND GUIDE

16. TURTLE BAY MOALBOAL

The award for the most underrated South Cebu tourist spot for snorkeling would have to go to Turtle Bay Moalboal, or at least we think so. Our photos really don’t do it justice, but Turtle Bay Moalboal has the most vibrant, expansive coral reef we’ve seen anywhere in the Philippines.

Often overlooked for the more well-known Pescador Island, Turtle Bay is somewhat of a hidden gem. We had found out about it from our friends who own Herbs Guest House just down the road and came back to explore it for ourselves. From the shore, it looks seemingly like any other local beach, but below the surface tells a very different story.

You’ll want to visit at high tide, otherwise you’ll share our struggle and end up scraping your stomachs along the top of the coral at low tide. We were told to head out to the buoys, so after gingerly making our way towards them, the dramatic drop off became apparent. It went from as shallow as a bathtub to an infinite depth, and that’s where we swam around, diving down the shelf and getting up close with turtles and other interesting marine life.

FULL BLOG POST: TURTLE BAY MOALBOAL GUIDE

17. WHITE BEACH MOALBOAL

Your visit to South Cebu wouldn’t be complete without catching the sunset at White Beach Moalboal. This beautiful stretch of coastline is only around 15 minutes from the main tourist stretch in Moalboal, so it’s a very popular beach — particularly on weekends — for both international and local tourists alike. If you want to avoid the crowds, you can always aim to visit on a weekday.

Whilst it can get quite busy, there’s enough sand to spread out if you continue to walk farther from the entrance. You’ll be greeted by local vendors, oftentimes young girls selling souvenir jewellery or fishermen selling sea urchins! If you want to do more than just gaze at the sunset, White Beach Moalboal is a beautiful spot to swim in clear blue water, standup paddleboard and snorkel. If you don’t have your own gear, there’ll be vendors around to hire from.

FULL BLOG POST: WHITE BEACH MOALBOAL GUIDE

18. BOJO RIVER

And finally we have the stunning Bojo River and Hermit’s Cove in Aloguinsan. It’s about an hour’s drive north of Moalboal, but still considered part of South Cebu. Since it is farther north than most of the other South Cebu tourist spots, it makes for an easy day trip from Cebu City, as it’s only 4 hours round trip.

The Bojo River project is an eco-friendly paradise, which starts with a grand entrance along a bamboo boardwalk through dense Nipa palms. These boardwalks aren’t uncommon in the Philippines — usually they pass through mangroves — but this Nipa boardwalk was by far the best we’ve seen.

The Bojo River itself is a beautiful 1.2km stretch of turquoise blue water snaking through an abundance of rehabilitated mangroves. All the employees are local members of the community have been tasked with protecting the biodiverse landscape, so they’re very passionate about sharing their knowledge and insights. Our guide took us on a small canoe downriver, describing all the different kinds of mangroves, fish and birds that call Bojo River home. Once we reached the river’s mouth, we changed boats into a larger glass bottom boat to take us to Hermit’s Cove.

FULL BLOG POST: BOJO RIVER GUIDE

19. HERMIT’S COVE

Hermit’s Cove is a charming little beach tucked away just to the left of the Bojo River mouth. You can either visit at the end of your Bojo River cruise or if you’d just like to visit Hermit’s Cove, you can hike down from the hilltop. The beach itself is quite small, but there are picnic huts and vendors selling refreshments. Despite visiting on a weekday during the pandemic, it was actually really busy with local tourists, which was very surprising. We still managed to find our own little spot and enjoy some time in the water checking out the coral and marine life.

FULL BLOG POST: HERMIT’S COVE GUIDE

READ: 28 BEST TOURIST SPOTS IN CEBU

Best restaurants in moalboal.

Make the most of your trip to South Cebu and check out the best restaurants in Moalboal , including one of our favourite restaurants in the entire world . Our roundup has you covered with the best breakfast, lunch and dinner spots to keep you fueled up for your adventures to the South Cebu tourist spots.

FULL BLOG POST: WHERE TO EAT IN MOALBOAL

WHERE TO STAY: BEST BEACH RESORTS IN SOUTH CEBU

From Moalboal to Oslob, We’ve put together this handy guide to the  best beach resorts in South Cebu , catering to most budgets and occasions!

READ: 23 BEST WATERFALLS IN CEBU

DON’T HAVE TIME TO READ THE 19 BEST TOURIST SPOTS IN SOUTH CEBU? PIN IT FOR LATER!

MORE SOUTH CEBU TRAVEL GUIDES

28 BEST CEBU TOURIST SPOTS

23 BEST WATERFALLS IN CEBU

TUMALOG FALLS IN OSLOB, SOUTH CEBU

WHITE BEACH MOALBOAL: Basdaku Beach Guide

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Top 15 South Cotabato Tourist Spots (UPDATED): Best Places to Visit

What are the best South Cotabato tourist spots you should visit for an adventurous travel experience? Check this travel guide out. We also included the best things to do and tourist spots near Lake Sebu.

South Cotabato is now one of the best eco-tourism destinations in the Philippines. Its vast and varied landscape is home to numerous eco-cultural wonders that will surely gratify your quest for fun, thrill, and adventure.

Not only will you glimpse cascading waterfalls, mystic lakes, and dense forests but also mingle with the different indigenous tribes. These tribes have been protecting the rich landscapes of South Cotabato for centuries.

Without further ado, here are the best tourist spots in Cotabato to include during your visit.

Behold South Cotabato Tourist Spots

1. lake holon.

Lake Holon is one of the top South Cotabato tourist spots. It is nestled on Mt Melibengoy, a dead volcano. Majestic walls of the mountain’s crater surround the lake.

In 1995, one of the walls collapsed, sending down raging waters that killed 53 people downstream. Thanks to local efforts, the mountain now is protected especially by the native tribes who inhabit it.

According to folklores, 15 unseen spirits guard the lake, making it sacred. In 2017, it was recognized among the world’s “Top 100 Sustainable Destinations.”

Lake Holon is considered a crater of an extinct volcano. You can swim or try boating while enjoying the lush forests surrounding the lake.

• Trekking Time: 3-4 hours via Salacafe trail, 5-6 hours via Kule trail
• Entrance Fee: Php 100 per person
• Environmental Fee: Php 50 per person
• Guide Fee: Php 80 per person (one guide for 5 pax)
• Porter Fee: Php 150

2. Surallah Tri-People Monument

Surallah Tri-People Monument is one of the cultural South Cotabato tourist spots. It aims to celebrate the diversity of the province’s major groups which are the Christians, Muslims, and T’boli tribes.

It was designed by Kublai Ponce Millan, a multi-awarded Mindanaoan artist, and sculptor. Dominating the monument is a 60 feet-high Tboli string instrument called Hegalong.

You’ll also see here larger-than-life sculptures of human figures showing the everyday life of the locals of Surallah.

• Location/Jump-off: Surallah Roundball Monument, Surallah, South Cotabato

3. Mt Matutum

Rising to more than 2293 meters above sea level, Mt Matutum is one of the prominent hiking South Cotabato tourist spots. Located in the municipality of Tupi, it is a dormant volcano covered with lush forests.

These host endangered flora and fauna species including the critically-endangered Philippine Eagle. For the indigenous inhabitants, the mountain is sacred and precious, thus, they have been defending it from commercial aggression for centuries.

While atop, you’ll get a 360 degrees view of the surrounding landscapes including vast pineapple plantations.

Mt Matutum is one of the reasons why you should visit South Cotabato province.

• Location/Jump-off: Brgy Kablon, Tupi, South Cotabato
• Permit Fee: Php 150 per person
• Guide Fee: Php 500
• Best Time to Climb: November to May (dry season)
• Reminder: You need to sure a permit from the Municipal town of Tupi before climbing the mountain.

4. Tupi Tarsier Sanctuary

If you think you can only find the iconic tarsier in Bohol, think again. They also have it in South Cotabato. Unfortunately, it’s an endangered species due to deforestation and illegal hunting.

Thus, the local authorities put up a sanctuary to protect them. Situated at the foot of Mt Matutum, the sanctuary is where you can see the tarsier up close and learn their usual behavior.

Tourism activities are now regulated. Instead, the local authorities only allow people who want to take part in conservation to come.

• Location/Jump-off: Sitio Bagong Silang, Brgy Linan, Tupi, South Cotabato
• Contact: 083-226-2800 (Tupi MENRO), 083-228-1404 (MMPL PASu)
• Reminder: Coordinate with the above offices before visiting the sanctuary.

5. Lake Sebu

Lake Sebu is now one of the recognized eco-tourism spots in South Cotabato. The Department of Tourism has also been featuring it in its tourism campaigns.

All in all, there are three lakes fed by several rivers. The indigenous T’boli and Ubo tribes have been living around the lakes since time immemorial. You’ll learn a lot about their rich culture when you come here.

The lakes are an important watershed, thus, these are protected by the locals.

• Location/Jump-off: Lake Sebu, South Cotabato

6. Seven Falls of Lake Sebu

Nestled in the scenic highlands, the seven falls of Lake Sebu are breathtaking wonders to see. The massive waters feeding the seven falls actually come from Lake Sebu itself.

When combined, Lake Sebu Falls are among the highest in the Philippines. Want to know the interesting part? You can glimpse these waterfalls by riding a zip line that starts at waterfall one.

If you want, you can also hire a guide to take you to the waterfalls and have a close-up view or even swim in their pristine waters.

• Location/Jump-off: Brgy Lake Siloton, Lake Sebu, South Cotabato
• Entrance Fee: Php 20 for adults, Php 15 for Senior, Php 10 for students, Php 5 for a child
• Parking Fee: Php 30 for vans & truck, Php 20 for cars, Php 10 for tricycle & motorcycle
• Zipline Fee: Php 300 during Weekends & Holiday, Php 250 during Weekdays

7. South Cotabato Community Museum

To learn more about the culture and history of the province, check out South Cotabato Community Museum. It houses various historical and cultural artifacts, and metal wares, including technological materials from the early 1900s.

It also contains a stone carving of Dr. Jose P. Rizal, the Philippine national hero. All in all, the museum has almost 1000 collections.

• Location/Jump-off: Alunan Avenue, Koronadal City, South Cotabato
• Operating Time: every day (8AM to 5PM)
• Entrance Fee: None

8. Siok Falls

If you want to challenge yourself for a daring thrill and adventure, test your limits to Siok Falls. It has multiple layers and you can see all of them in one visit.

Many local adventurers love to come here because of its proximity from Koronadal City. It is indeed a rustic escape from the hustles and bustles of daily life.

Thriving forests surround Siok Falls, giving it an enchanting feel. If you’re someone who loves to meditate, there’s just nothing like it here, sitting in front of the falls while its mists caress you.

• Location/Jump-off: Sitio Siok, Brgy Mabini, Koronadal City

9. Gensan City Fish Port

General Santos City is the Tuna Capital of the Philippines. The tuna industry is also one of the main livelihoods of the locals and the province exports tuna to different countries.

Visiting Gensan City Fish Port will help you know more and understand about the fishing community. You’ll also catch sight of live tuna and who knows, the local fishermen might encourage you to carry one.

Thankfully, the local authorities set up measures to sustain the population of the tuna.

• Location/Jump-off: General Santos City

10. Lang Dulay Tnalak Weaving Center

If you know Apo Whang od of Kalinga, South Cotabato also has their own version in the persona of Lang Dulay. But instead of tattooing, she weaves exquisite designs, showcasing the creativity of the T’boli tribes.

In 1988, she was conferred the National Living Treasure Award. Since age 12, she has been weaving T’boli textiles portraying intricate designs and patterns.

Learn how they weave colorful textiles here and what will surprise you more is the fact that they do it the traditional way.

11. Bakngeb River Cave

Bakngeb River Cave is one of the newly-discovered South Cotabato tourist spots. It is a subterranean river with wide pools and crystal-clear waters.

Inside, you’ll find stunning limestone rock formations similar to those found in Puerto Princesa Underground River.

Numerous bats also inhabit the cave, indicating its rich biodiversity and pristine condition. To explore it, you’ll ride a raft or go water tubing.

• Location/Jump-off: Sitio Bakngeb, Brgy Laconon, Tboli, South Cotabato

12. T’boli Homestay

T’bo Homestay will give you a rewarding and meaningful experience on the lives of the T’boli indigenous groups. The homestay is known for its simplistic design made from locally-available materials.

There are no partitions as the T’boli values the communal setup. You’ll surely learn to love the simplicity of life here including the hospitality of the native tribes.

Offering homestay experience is one of the strategies of the locals to promote sustainable tourism. It’s all about living in harmony with the land and culture and nurturing values of life.

• Location/Jump-off: Brgy Sikat, Lake Cebu, South Cotabato

13. Taal Falls

Cascading like a huge bridal veil, Taal Falls is considered one of the highest cascades in the province. It measures more than 200 feet high amidst green foliage.

Like drizzles falling from the heavens, Taal Falls generates mists that will surely blow you away. Because it has a shallow pool, you can try standing on its base while the falling waters give you a rejuvenating massage.

• Location/Jump-off: Tupi, South Cotabato
• Trekking Time: 1 hour

14. Sebul Farm

Sebul Farm showcases sustainable farming with modern techniques and facilities. It serves as a learning site of the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI). It produces various types of crops such as herbs including flocks and poultry grown the natural way.

As a center, is also provides livelihood programs for the indigenous inhabitants, helping preserve their way of life or their culture.

15. Hidak Falls

Hidak Falls is one of the off-beaten South Cotabato tourist spots. It lies in the forested foothills of T’boli town where various flora and fauna species thrive. It has multiple layers and the highest of which measures around 40 meters.

Hidak Falls carved a wide and deep pool with icy-cold and crystal-clear waters. Locals love coming especially children to enjoy the view and have a rejuvenating swim.

Because it is less visited, it remains pristine, a perfect respite for nature lovers and adventurers.

• Location/Jump-off: Sitio Blangas, Brgy Kematu, T’boli town

For More Information

If you need more information to help set up your itinerary to South Cotabato tourist spots, do contact DOT Region XII via the following:

• Contact Number: (083) 228 8667
• Address: 3rd Floor Sanle Building, Benigno Aquino cor. Lapu-Lapu Street, Zone IIIKoronadal, South Cotabato

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Hi there fellow traveler! My name is Daniel although you can call me Kumafor. That's my indigenous name. I grew on a remote village called Lias in Barlig, Mountain Province.

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50 Most Beautiful Tourist Spots in the Philippines

No words can accurately describe how beautiful the Philippines is. Not to mention that it’s a cheap country to visit. 

But with more than 7,000 islands to choose from, even globe-trotters would be hard-pressed to pick the tourist spots in the Philippines they should explore first.

This guide makes travel planning easier by recommending the best places to visit in the Philippines , what to expect, must-try food and activities, and other vital information to help you decide which tourist spots to include in your travel bucket list.

Disclosure : Some of the links you’ll encounter below are affiliate links. We’ll earn a small commission if you book a hotel or purchase a travel package using any of these links at no additional cost.

Table of Contents

Top 25 best tourist spots in the philippines.

Here are 25 of the most popular Philippine destinations frequently visited by foreign and domestic tourists:

Ideal for: Couples, families, beach bums, adventure seekers

Tourists worldwide flock to the Philippines’ famous beach destination for its powdery white sand, crystal-clear blue water, and majestic sunset. Boracay has never failed to live up to its reputation every year, consistently making it to the list of the world’s most ‘Instagrammable’ places 1 .

After Boracay’s rehabilitation in 2018, beach regulations have become stricter to protect the island. Upon entering Boracay, visitors must present booking confirmation from any Department of Tourism-accredited hotels .

Top things to do in Boracay

• Watch the picturesque sunset at White Beach and Willy’s Rock
• Join a half-day tour around Boracay’s different beaches and snorkeling sites
• Experience parasailing to enjoy a breathtaking view of the island
• Jump off a cliff at Ariel’s Point
• Buy fresh seafood at D’Talipapa and have it cooked in a nearby restaurant

Where to stay in Boracay

Boracay resorts cater to every budget. Luxury hotels are located in Station 1, mid-range hotels in Station 2, and budget hotels in Station 3.

• Best Boracay luxury hotel: Henann Crystal Sands Resort
• Best Boracay mid-range hotel: Sundown Beach Studios
• Best Boracay budget hotel: Chill Out Hostel

How to get there

• The faster but more expensive way to travel to Boracay from Manila is to fly to Caticlan Airport. Then, ride a tricycle to Caticlan Jetty Port, where you’ll board a ferry to Cagban Jetty Port. From Cagban, ride a tricycle and get off at the drop-off point nearest your hotel.
• The cheaper but slower option is to fly to Kalibo Airport. From there, ride a van or bus to Caticlan Jetty Port and follow the same steps.

Ideal for: Couples, beach bums, nature lovers, adventure seekers

Palawan has so much captivating natural beauty, from towering limestone cliffs and beaches with turquoise water to caves and rich marine life. No wonder travel magazines like Conde Nast 2 and CNN Travel 3 lists Palawan as one of the world’s most beautiful islands.

Palawan’s most popular tourist destinations are Puerto Princesa, El Nido, and Coron. Interestingly, El Nido won a spot in HuffPost’s list of the “50 Awesome Solo Travel Destinations to Visit 4 “ for its beautiful beaches and a wide array of boutique hotels and hostels offering excellent opportunities to meet other solo travelers.

Many other hidden beaches on the island are also worth exploring.

Top things to do in Palawan

• Explore the Puerto Princesa Underground River , the world’s longest navigable underground river and one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature
• Enjoy different water activities (snorkeling, kayaking, scuba diving, etc.) at El Nido’s beaches and lagoons 
• Dive at Coron Bay to discover diverse marine life and World War II Japanese shipwrecks
• Eat tamilok , a slimy delicacy from branches of mangrove trees
• Join an island-hopping adventure at Honda Bay
• Go scuba diving at Tubbataha Reef, a UNESCO Heritage Site and home to incredible marine biodiversity

Where to stay in Palawan

• Best hotel in Puerto Princesa: Casa Belina Bed & Breakfast
• Best hotel in El Nido: Duli Beach Resort
• Best hotel in Coron: The Funny Lion
• To get to Puerto Princesa, fly from Manila to Puerto Princesa International Airport. 
• To get to Coron, fly from Manila to Busuanga and ride a van to Coron.
• To get to El Nido, fly from Manila to Puerto Princesa. From the airport, ride a van and drop off at the Corong-Corong bus terminal. Then, ride a tricycle that will take you to your hotel. The faster but more expensive way to get to El Nido from Manila is to take a 1.5-hour direct flight via AirSWIFT.

Ideal for: History buffs, foodies, beach bums, adventure seekers

Cebu is home to the Philippines’ oldest city, famous historical places, pristine beaches, and mouth-watering dishes. The island province is foreigner-friendly because locals speak fluent English, and its bustling city teems with hotels, shopping malls, and entertainment halls.

Top things to do in Cebu

• Enjoy an island-hopping tour around Cebu’s nearby islands
• Swim with whale sharks in Oslob
• Experience trekking and canyoneering in Badian
• Witness Sinulog Festival, Cebu’s largest festivity held every third Sunday of January
• Sample famous Cebu delicacies: lechon (roasted pig), danggit (salted dried fish), puso (steamed rice wrapped in banana leaves), and dried mangoes
• Visit Cebu’s historical sites : Colon Street, Mactan Shrine, Magellan’s Cross, Fort San Pedro, and Basilica del Santo Niño.

Where to stay in Cebu

• Best hotel in Cebu City: 18 Suites Cebu
• Best hotel in Bantayan Island: Carl‘s Island Inn
• Best hotel in Moalboal: Tongo Hill Cottages
• From Manila, take a 1-hour flight to Cebu. To get to your hotel from the airport, take a taxi or book a Grab ride.
• Visitors from China, Hong Kong, Singapore, South Korea , Taiwan, Kuala Lumpur, Tokyo, and Dubai may fly directly to Mactan Cebu International Airport.

Ideal for: Solo travelers, couples, families, beach bums, nature lovers

Bohol is not your typical beach destination. Aside from its white-sand beaches, Bohol has some unique tourist spots in the Philippines, such as the famous Chocolate Hills and Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary. Its natural and man-made wonders are also worth exploring.

Thanks in part to the iconic Chocolate Hills, UNESCO has declared Bohol as the country’s first global geopark 5 , cementing its reputation among foreign tourists as one of the must-visit beautiful tourist spots in the Philippines.

Top things to do in Bohol

• Visit Bohol’s top tourist spots on a countryside tour , with a lunch buffet at the Loboc River Cruise
• Explore Balicasag and the Virgin Islands
• Enjoy fresh organic greens and ice cream in a cassava cone at Bohol Bee Farm
• Experience biking on a zipline and other thrilling adventures at Chocolate Hills Adventure Park
• Swim, snorkel, dive, or relax at Alona Beach

Where to stay in Bohol

• Best hotel in Tagbilaran: Sweet Home Boutique Hotel
• Best hotel in Panglao: Henann Tawala Resort
• From Manila, take a 1.5-hour flight to Tagbilaran Airport. To get to Panglao, ride a tricycle, van, or taxi.
• From Cebu, take a 2-hour fast ferry ride to Tagbilaran.

Ideal for: Couples, families, nature lovers, art enthusiasts

The Philippines is world-famous as a beach destination. But there’s more to the tropical islands than just seas and sand. Case in point: Baguio City.

The summer capital of the Philippines may be too commercialized and overcrowded nowadays, but it has not lost its charm. Baguio is still a romantic year-round destination with its cool breeze and lovely scenery of lush mountains and pine trees.

Related: The Fascinating History of Baguio’s Iconic Lion

Top things to do in Baguio

• Stroll along Burnham Park, Baguio Botanical Garden, Wright Park, and Camp John Hay
• Score local goods at bargain prices in Baguio Night Market
• Shop for souvenirs and fresh produce in Baguio Public Market
• Visit the BenCab museum in the nearby town of Tuba
• Join the Panagbenga Festival, also known as Baguio’s Flower Festival, in February or March

Where to stay in Baguio

• Best Baguio luxury hotel: The Manor at Camp John Hay
• Best Baguio mid-range hotel: The Orchard Hotel
• Best Baguio budget hotel: Starwood Hotel

Take a Victory Liner/Genesis Transport/Partas bus from Cubao to Baguio (travel time: 4 to 6 hours).

Ideal for: Surf enthusiasts, beach bums, backpackers

Siargao’s huge and strong waves make it one of the world’s best surf spots 6 . Although the surfing capital of the Philippines appeals mostly to surfers, the island also has excellent tourist spots for beachgoers.

Top things to do in Siargao

• Ride the waves at Siargao’s famous surf spots: Cloud 9, Jacking Horse, Quicksilver, etc.
• Enjoy an epic island-hopping adventure on Siargao’s best islands : Naked Island, Daku Island, and Guyam Island
• Explore, cliff jump, or swim at the Magpupungko Rock Pools
• Swim, snorkel, or relax at Sugba Lagoon

Where to stay in Siargao

• Best Siargao luxury hotel: Isla Cabana Resort
• Best Siargao mid-range hotel: Harana Surf Resort
• Best Siargao budget hotel: Mad Monkey Hostel

Fly from Manila to Sayak Airport. To get to General Luna town (where Siargao tourist spots are located), rent one of the vans, motorbikes, or multi-cabs parked outside the airport.

Ideal for: Families, nature lovers, beach bums, foodies

Davao is home to the Philippine eagle (one of the world’s rarest birds), the country’s highest mountain, and the exotic fruit durian. There’s so much to see and explore—from stunning beaches to family-friendly parks—for every type of traveler. Tourists can even book a day tour around Davao City to visit President Rodrigo Duterte ‘s house.

Top things to do in Davao

• Visit Davao’s top attractions, including Philippine Eagle Center , People’s Park, Davao Crocodile Park , and Eden Nature Park
• Dine and enjoy a spectacular view of Davao in Jack’s Ridge Resort & Restaurant
• Trek Mount Apo, the highest peak in the Philippines
• Sample Davao’s most popular fruits: durian, mangosteen, marang, and pomelo
• Join Kadayawan sa Dabaw , Davao’s grandest annual festival in August
• Swim, snorkel, and bask in the beauty of pristine beaches on Samal Island  

Related: 14 Bizarre And Fascinating Philippine Festivals

Where to stay in Davao

• Best Davao luxury hotel: Seda Abreeza Davao
• Best Davao mid-range hotel: Paradise Island Park & Beach Resort
• Best Davao budget hotel: Villa Viva Belgica

Fly from Manila to Davao. Take a taxi or jeepney from the airport to Davao City.

8. Banaue Rice Terraces

Ideal for: Backpackers, couples, nature lovers

Hundreds of years ago, indigenous people of the Ifugao tribe hand-carved thousands of rice paddies in the mountains of the Cordillera, now known as the Banaue Rice Terraces. It’s one of the most prominent tourist spots in the Philippines and is often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World.”

When you visit, it’s best to hire a local guide. Go to the Banaue viewpoint for the breathtaking scenery and Instagram-worthy snaps.

Top things to do in Banaue

Aside from Banaue Rice Terraces, there’s so much to do and see in and around Banaue:

• Enjoy the breathtaking scenery at Batad Rice Terraces, Hapao Rice Terraces, Mayoyao Rice Terraces, or Bangaan Village Rice Terraces
• Trek to Batad Village and Tappiya Waterfalls
• Discover the Ifugao culture, history, and arts at Banaue Ethnic Village, Tam-an Village, and Banaue Museum
• Shop for handicrafts, wood carvings, local coffee, and other souvenirs

Where to stay in Banaue

• Banaue Homestay
• Native Village Inn
• Baleh Boble Guesthouse
• Via plane: Take a 1.5-hour flight to Cauayan Airport in Isabela from Manila or Clark. From the airport, take a 3-hour van ride to Banaue.
• Via bus: From Manila or Baguio, ride an Ohayami Trans bus to Banaue (travel time: 9 to 15 hours).

9. Intramuros

Ideal for: Solo travelers, couples, barkadas , history buffs 

Discover and appreciate the Philippines’ rich history by touring Intramuros, one of the country’s best places to experience the Spanish colonial period. Intramuros is also a romantic setting for a date with its old-fashioned charm. After touring Intramuros, visitors may take a side trip to other equally popular places in Manila: Binondo and Escolta.

Related: The Lost Tunnels Buried Deep Beneath Intramuros

Top things to do in and around Intramuros

• Join a bamboo bike tour of the different tourist spots within the walled city: Fort Santiago, Plaza San Luis, Manila Cathedral, San Agustin Church, etc.
• Enjoy a food trip in Binondo
• Visit Binondo Church
• Marvel at the iconic landmarks along Escolta Street

Where to stay in Intramuros

• Best Intramuros luxury hotel: Bayleaf Intramuros Hotel
• Best Intramuros mid-range hotel: White Knight Hotel Intramuros
• Best Intramuros budget hotel: RedDoorz
• The most convenient way to get to Intramuros from anywhere in Metro Manila is to ride a taxi or Grab car.
• Alternatively, take the MRT to Taft Station and the LRT1 to Carriedo Station . Ride a jeep going to Pier and get off at Intramuros.

Ideal for: Solo travelers, couples, barkadas , history buffs, foodies

Be transported back in time when you visit Vigan City in Ilocos Sur. Be awed by the Spanish colonial period ancestral homes and structures that make Vigan a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of CNN’s most picturesque towns in Asia 7 .

Top things to do in Vigan

• Take a stroll along the cobblestone streets around Calle Crisologo on foot or a kalesa (horse-drawn carriage) ride
• Try famous Vigan delicacies: empanada (pork-stuffed pastry), pakbet (vegetable dish), bagnet (deep-fried crispy pork belly), sinanglaw (beef innards stew), and Vigan longganisa (garlicky and spicy sausage)
• Visit iconic ancestral homes such as Syquia Mansion and Father Burgos’ house
• Join a cruise in Mestizo River to learn about Vigan’s history and marine biodiversity
• Visit an Abel cloth shop to see weavers in action and buy traditional woven products

Where to stay in Vigan

• Best Vigan luxury hotel: Hotel Luna
• Best Vigan mid-range hotel: Paradores de Vigan
• Best Vigan budget hotel: ZEN Rooms Guimod Transient Vigan
• The fastest way to get to Vigan is to take a 1.5-hour flight from Manila to Laoag, Ilocos Norte. From the Laoag Airport, take a 2-hour bus ride to Vigan.
• Alternatively, ride a bus from Cubao, Pasay, or Manila with a direct route to Vigan (travel time: 8 to 10 hours).

11. Mayon Volcano

Ideal for: Backpackers, couples, families, adventure seekers, foodies

Mayon Volcano is one of the most popular tourist spots in the Philippines and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, thanks to its distinct, perfect cone shape. Aside from admiring the natural wonder, visitors can also experience a unique food trip and adventure in Albay, where the volcano is located.

Top things to do near Mayon Volcano

• Take a thrilling ATV tour around the base of Mayon Volcano
• Visit the Cagsawa Ruins Park
• Eat pili nuts, sili ice cream (made of chili and coconut milk), and spicy dishes cooked in coconut milk, such as Bicol express (pork stew), laing (vegetable dish), and pinangat (fish stew)
• Enjoy street food and a sunset view of Mayon Volcano at Legazpi Boulevard
• Hike up and zipline at Ligñon Hill Nature Park
• Enjoy an unobstructed, enchanting view of Mayon Volcano from Sumlang Lake while riding a bamboo raft or kayak

Where to stay near Mayon Volcano

• Mayon Lodging House
• Balay de la Rama Bed and Breakfast

From Manila, take a 45-minute flight or a 9-hour bus ride to Legazpi City, Albay.

12. Tagaytay

Ideal for: Couples, families, foodies

Tagaytay is a favorite road trip destination because of its proximity to Manila, cool weather, amazing views of Taal Lake and Taal Volcano, delicious food, and fun outdoor activities.

Top things to do in Tagaytay

• Visit the top tourist spots in Tagaytay : People’s Park in the Sky, Picnic Grove, Caleruega Church, SkyRanch, etc.
• Dine-in at Tagaytay’s popular restaurants: Breakfast at Antonio’s, Sonya’s Secret Garden, Bag of Beans, Josephine Restaurant, Mushroomburger, etc.
• Visit Zoori to enjoy a wildlife experience and panoramic views of Taal Volcano
• Have a fun-filled day with farm animals and flower gardens at Paradizoo
• Buy delectable tarts and other pastries at Rowena’s Pasalubong shop

Where to stay in Tagaytay

• Best Tagaytay luxury hotel: Anya Resort
• Best Tagaytay mid-range hotel: Quest Hotel
• Best Tagaytay budget hotel: RedDoorz

Ride a bus or shared van bound for Tagaytay/Nasugbu/Calatagan from Manila.

13. Mt. Pulag

Ideal for: Backpackers, adventure seekers, nature lovers

Standing at 2,926 meters above sea level, Mount Pulag is the third-highest peak in the Philippines. It’s also the highest mountain in Luzon. Because of its easy trail and the magnificent sea of clouds surrounding its top, Mt. Pulag is a favorite hiking destination for first-timers. 

Top things to do in Mt. Pulag

• Trek to Mt. Pulag for about 3-4 hours using the Ambangeg trail (for beginners). Advanced hikers can take the Ambaguio or Akiki trail.
• Witness the glorious sunrise and sea of clouds atop Mt. Pulag
• Experience the simple life in the mountains without internet, signal, and electricity
• Meet and interact with the locals
• Buy fresh produce and pasalubong from stores at the ranger station

Where to stay near Mt. Pulag

• Baban’s Homestay
• Newtown Plaza Hotel
• Dream Transient Rooms

From Manila, ride a bus to Baguio. From Baguio, charter a van or jeep bound for Bokod, Benguet, where the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) office is located. Hikers must register, attend an orientation, and pay fees to the DENR before climbing Mt. Pulag.

Outside the DENR office, ride a habal-habal (motorcycle) to the Babadak Ranger Station, the jump-off point where you can book a local guide (required) and a porter (optional).

Ideal for: Solo travelers, backpackers, adventure seekers

Sagada’s tranquil charm and natural beauty make it one of the most popular tourist spots in the Philippines. There are many unique places to see and activities for adventure junkies.

Top things to do in Sagada

• See the hanging coffins in Echo Valley
• Explore Lumiang, Sumaguing, or Crystal Caves
• Hike to Kiltepan Peak or Marlboro Hills, watch the sunrise, and bask in the dreamy sea of clouds
• Swim at Bomod-Ok Falls and marvel at the rice terraces surrounding it
• Visit the Sagada Weaving Cooperative to see weavers in action and buy woven products

Where to stay in Sagada

• Isabelo’s Inn and Cafe
• Kanip Aw Pines View Lodge
• Kenlibed In n
• From Manila, ride a Coda Lines bus going directly to Sagada (travel time: 12 hours).
• From Baguio, go to GL Liner Terminal in Baguio Dangwa Terminal and ride a bus to Sagada (travel time: 6 hours).

15. Puerto Galera

Ideal for: Beach bums, backpackers, families, barkadas

Puerto Galera is a favorite beach destination every summer because of its white-sand beaches. If you’re into scuba diving and snorkeling, you shouldn’t miss this tourist spot in the Philippines.

Top things to do in Puerto Galera

• Swim and relax at Aninuan Beach
• Snorkel or scuba dive at Coral Garden
• Experience the vibrant nightlife at White Beach
• Take a carabao ride to Tukuran Falls and enjoy the beauty of this hidden paradise
• Immerse in the local culture at the Mangyan Village

Where to stay in Puerto Galera

• Best Puerto Galera luxury hotel: Edgewater Dive & Spa Resort
• Best Puerto Galera mid-range hotel: Tribal Hills Mountain Resort
• Best Puerto Galera budget hotel: Bamboo House Beach Lodge & Restaurant

From Manila, ride a bus to Batangas Pier (travel time: 2 to 3 hours). Take a ferry boat ride from Batangas Pier to Balatero Port or Muelle Port (around 1 hour travel time). Ride a tricycle to your hotel.

Ideal for: Families, barkadas , beach bums, nature lovers, adventure seekers

Looking for a place to enjoy summer outdoor activities with family or friends? Subic—just a few hours away from Manila—is one of the must-visit tourist spots in the Philippines. Many fun activities and beautiful beaches are available for tourists to enjoy.

Top things to do in Subic

• Explore the top tourist spots in Subic: Capones Lighthouse, Pundaquit Coves, Camara Island, etc.
• See wild animals up close in Zoobic Safari , the only tiger safari in the Philippines
• Enjoy thrilling water slides and attractions at Aqua Planet Waterpark
• Spend a fun-filled day on Subic’s Inflatable Island , the largest and wildest floating playground in Asia
• Cliff dive and swim at El Kabayo Waterfalls

Where to stay in Subic

• Best Subic luxury hotel: Mangrove Resort Hotel
• Best Subic mid-range hotel: Mango Valley Hotel 2
• Best Subic budget hotel: The Circle Hostel

Ride a bus bound for Olongapo from Manila and get off at Subic Bay.

17. Batangas

Ideal for: Families, barkadas , beach bums, adventure seekers, foodies

Batangas has many affordable beach resorts two to three hours from Manila. This makes the province a go-to place for family or barkada summer outings and corporate team-building activities.

Top things to do in Batangas

• Enjoy water activities in Batangas’ most popular beaches: Anilao, Laiya, Nasugbu, Calatagan, Isla Verde, etc.
• Trek up Batangas’ famous mountains: Taal Volcano , Mt. Pico de Loro, Mt. Batulao , Mt. Gulugod Baboy, Mt. Maculot , etc.
• Go scuba diving in Anilao to explore the famous diving spot’s spectacular underwater scenery
• Sample Batangas’ local cuisine: lomi (egg noodle soup), bulalo (beef stew), lechon (roasted pig), sinaing na tulingan (braised fish), kapeng barako (Batangas coffee), etc.

Where to stay in Batangas

• Best hotel in Anilao: Vivere Azure Resort
• Best hotel in Calatagan: Crusoe Cabins Resort
• Best hotel in Laiya: Acuaverde Beach Resort & Hotel
• Best hotel in Nasugbu: Pico Sands Hotel

From Manila, ride a bus to Batangas City/Batangas Pier/Nasugbu. From the bus terminal, ride a tricycle to your Batangas beach destination.

Ideal for: Families, barkadas , foodies, beach bums, history buffs

With its stunning beaches, one-of-a-kind culinary experience, historical sites, and genuinely warm and friendly people, Iloilo is one of the tourist spots in the Philippines where visitors want to keep coming back.

Top things to do in Iloilo

• Feast on Iloilo’s famous dishes and delicacies: La Paz batchoy (chicken and pork noodle soup), pancit molo (pork dumpling soup), fresh oysters, biscocho (twice-baked bread), barquillos (crunchy wafer roll), etc.
• Stroll along Calle Real and see heritage buildings that exude Iloilo’s old-city charm 
• Visit Iloilo’s famous centuries-old churches: Miag-ao Church, Jaro Cathedral, Molo Church, San Joaquin Church, etc.
• Soak up the beauty of Islas de Gigantes and Sicogon Island
• Join the Dinagyang Festival, a religious and cultural festivity in Iloilo City held every fourth Sunday of January

Where to stay in Iloilo

• Best Iloilo luxury hotel: Richmonde Hotel Iloilo
• Best Iloilo mid-range hotel: Urban Sands Iloilo Hotel Resort
• Best Iloilo budget hotel: Figtree Hotel

From Manila/Clark/Cebu/Davao/Hong Kong/Singapore, take a direct flight to Iloilo International Airport. To get to the city, ride a taxi, jeep, or van from the airport.

19. Batanes

Ideal for: Solo travelers, couples, backpackers, nature lovers

Batanes is every Filipino traveler’s ultimate dream destination. What’s not to love about the romantic island province? From its scenic landscapes and gorgeous beaches to unique cultures, Batanes is worth a visit.

Top things to do in Batanes

• Tour the top Batanes attractions (Tukon Church, Basco Lighthouse, Honesty Coffee Shop, etc.) on Batan Island and Sabtang Island
• Meet the Ivatan people and immerse yourself in their culture. Try wearing vakul , the traditional headgear made of abaca fiber, too!
• Enjoy fresh seafood dishes: dibang (flying fish), payi (lobster), etc.
• Climb Mt. Iraya in Basco, the highest mountain in Batanes

Where to stay in Batanes

• Nathaniel’s Lodge
• Baletin Hometel
• Amboys Hometel

Fly from Manila (via SkyJet) or Clark (via Philippine Airlines) to Basco, Batanes. From the airport, walk to reach the Basco town proper. To get to Sabtang Island, ride a tricycle, jeep, or van to San Vicente port, where you’ll ride a ferry to Sabtang.

20. Camiguin

Ideal for: Beach bums, adventure seekers

This serene and beautiful tropical paradise in Northern Mindanao will leave you in awe with its many natural wonders. Camiguin is among the world’s best dive spots and is recognized by the Department of Tourism as one of the top tourist spots in the Philippines.

Top things to do in Camiguin

• Swim in the crystal-clear water of White Island
• Dive or snorkel at Sunken Cemetery to see its underwater tombs
• Snorkel around the Giant Clams Sanctuary 
• Visit the old church ruins in Bonbon, Catarman
• Hike up Mt. Hibok-hibok
• Take a dip in one of Camiguin’s hot springs and cold springs
• Eat lanzones, a fruit native to the island and is considered the best and sweetest in the Philippines

Where to stay in Camiguin

• Mountain View Cottages
• Balai sa Baibai Resort
• Marianita’s Cottages

From Manila, fly directly to Camiguin via SkyJet. If you travel with a different airline, fly to Cebu first and then take a connecting flight to Camiguin Airport.

Ideal for: Families, history buffs, beach bums, nature lovers

Only a few hours away from Manila, Bataan is perfect for a quick weekend getaway. Although it’s not as touristy as the neighboring Subic Bay, people visit this province for its many historical and natural attractions.

Top things to do in Bataan

• Visit historical landmarks in Bataan: Dambana ng Kagitingan (Shrine of Valor) at Mt. Samat, Death March Marker, Fall of Bataan Marker, Bataan World War II Museum, etc.
• Join a walking tour at Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar to learn what it was like to live during the Spanish colonial era
• Visit the Pawikan Conservation Center to learn about sea turtles and release baby sea turtles into the sea
• Admire the stunning rock formations and watch the sunset in Sisiman Bay

Where to stay in Bataan

• Best Bataan luxury hotel: Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar Hotel
• Best Bataan mid-range hotel: The Plaza Hotel – Balanga
• Best Bataan budget hotel: Vista Venice Resort
• Via bus: From Manila, ride a Victory Liner/Genesis/Bataan Transit bus to Balanga, the jump-off point to Morong and other parts of Bataan (travel time: 3-4 hours).
• Via ferry: Go to the Esplanade Seaside Terminal behind SM Mall of Asia and take the ferry to Capinpin Port in Orion, Bataan (travel time: 1 hour). From Orion, ride a bus bound for Balanga.

22. Antipolo

Ideal for: Art enthusiasts, nature lovers, foodies

Antipolo is the home of the famous Hinulugang Taktak. But there are many other reasons to visit this city near Manila, particularly its hidden gems that will delight art and nature aficionados.

Top things to do in Antipolo

• Go on an off-roading adventure through an ATV ride on the slopes of Sierra Madre
• Pamper yourself at Luljetta’s Hanging Gardens Spa
• Be one with nature at Mount Purro Nature Reserve  
• Visit the Pinto Art Museum and take Instagrammable snaps
• Learn pottery or calligraphy at Crescent Moon Café

Where to stay in Antipolo

• Date and Dine Resort
• The Citywalk Suites Apartment
• LeBlanc Hotel and Resort

Go to EDSA Shaw or Cubao and ride a van or jeepney to Antipolo. From the town proper, ride a tricycle to your destination in Antipolo.

23. Bacolod

Ideal for: Families, barkadas , foodies, adventure seekers

Bacolod is where you’ll meet friendly, welcoming locals—you won’t be surprised to learn it’s called The City of Smiles . Apart from the people, Bacolod’s delicious food, rich history and culture, and natural attractions are the biggest reasons to visit this city. As a cherry on top, Bacolod’s hotel rooms cost an average of ₱2,650, making it the country’s cheapest tourist destination 8 .

Top things to do in and around Bacolod

• Take a morning or late afternoon stroll along Capitol Park and Lagoon
• Visit The Ruins, or the “Taj Mahal of Negros,” in Talisay and discover its exciting story
• Enjoy snorkeling, kite surfing, or kayaking on Lakawon Island in Cadiz
• Join in the fun at MassKara Festival, the happiest and most colorful Philippine festival, in October
• Eat the famous inasal (Bacolod-style chicken barbecue)
• Sample and bring home Bacolod delicacies: piaya (sweet flatbread), cansi (unique soup made up of bone marrow, batuan fruit, and beef shank), pinasugbo (deep-fried and caramelized banana slices), napoleones (layered puff pastry), etc.

Where to stay in Bacolod

• Best Bacolod luxury hotel: Seda Capitol Central
• Best Bacolod mid-range hotel: GT Hotel
• Best Bacolod budget hotel: Mainstreet Pension House
• From Manila, take a one-hour flight to Bacolod-Silay International Airport. Ride a van, taxi, or Grab car from the airport to Bacolod City.
• From Cebu or Iloilo, board a ferry to Bacolod.

24. Dumaguete

Ideal for: Nature lovers, adventure seekers

Known as the City of Gentle People , Dumaguete has been recently named the top retirement spot in the Philippines for foreigners 9 . Travel to Dumaguete and discover why the laid-back city attracts tourists and foreign retirees.

Top things to do in Dumaguete

• Tour Dumaguete’s top tourist spots: Dumaguete Belfry, Rizal Boulevard, Silliman University, etc.
• Visit the captivating Manjuyod Sandbar (the “Maldives of the Philippines”) and see dolphins swimming on your way to the sandbar
• Trek around the twin crater lakes of Balinsasayao and Danao
• Climb up Mt. Kanlaon, the highest mountain and largest active volcano in the Visayas
• Eat silvanas and sans rival, Dumaguete’s famous pastries

Where to stay in Dumaguete

• Best Dumaguete luxury hotel: Salaya Beach Houses
• Best Dumaguete mid-range hotel: Acqua Dive Resort
• Best Dumaguete budget hotel: The U Pension
• From Manila, take a direct flight to Dumaguete. From the airport, ride a multi-cab or tricycle to the city proper. 
• From Cebu, take a direct bus to Dumaguete City.

25. Cagayan de Oro

Ideal for:  Adventure seekers, barkadas , families

Up for a physically challenging, unforgettable experience? Travel to Cagayan de Oro City and satisfy your inner adrenaline junkie. Conquer the raging rapids of Cagayan de Oro River—that’s what the Whitewater Rafting Capital in the Philippines is for!

Top things to do in Cagayan de Oro

• Experience whitewater rafting on the Cagayan de Oro River, or take it up a notch with the more intense whitewater kayaking adventure
• Enjoy ziplining or canopy walking in Macahambus Cave, leading to a fantastic view of the Cagayan de Oro River 
• Visit CDO’s historical landmarks: Plaza Divisoria, Plaza de Los Heroes, MacArthur Memorial Marker, etc.
• Have fun rappelling, trekking, ziplining, horseback riding, or biking in Mapawa Nature Park
• Trek from Mapawa Nature Park to Mintugsok Falls, a hidden gem in CDO

Where to stay in Cagayan de Oro

• Best Cagayan de Oro luxury hotel: Seda Centrio
• Best Cagayan de Oro mid-range hotel: Red Planet Hotel
• Best Cagayan de Oro budget hotel: GC Suites

From Manila/Cebu/Davao/Iloilo/Zamboanga, fly to Laguindingan Airport in Cagayan de Oro. Take a shuttle or bus from the airport to various points in CDO.

Top 20 Hidden and Underrated Tourist Spots in the Philippines

Aside from its most popular destinations, the Philippines has many equally stunning places waiting to be discovered. 

These off-the-radar places aren’t visited as often because of their remote location or underdevelopment (no electricity, Wi-Fi, mobile signal, shopping malls, etc.). But for travelers who want to visit places off the beaten path, such underrated destinations are simply perfect.

Here are the best up-and-coming tourist spots in the Philippines you should check out:

Ideal for: Backpackers, solo travelers, adventure seekers

Abra is not as famous as its neighboring tourist spots in the Philippines (Ilocos, Baguio, and Sagada). However, the landlocked province has a lot of natural attractions to offer.

Top things to do in Abra

• Visit Kaparkan Falls, Piwek Rock Formation, and Apao Rolling Hills in Tineg
• Trek Mt. Bullagao, the “Sleeping Beauty of Abra,” in Langiden
• Taste the local fare: pancit miki (stir-fried noodles), lechon de Abra , cascaron (deep-fried glutinous rice), palileng (mullet or goby fish stew), abuos (ant egg dish), etc.
• Visit the loom weaving community in La Paz

Where to stay in Abra

• Strutz Art Garden Resort
• Abra Valley Grand Hotel
• Abrassi Hotel and Restaurant

From Manila/Baguio/Vigan, ride a Partas/Dominion/Viron bus to Bangued, Abra. Travel time takes 8 hours from Manila or 2 hours from Vigan. From Bangued, take a jeepney to your destination in Abra.

Ideal for: Backpackers, nature lovers, adventure seekers

Bontoc is the gateway to Sagada and Banaue, two of the most popular tourist spots in the Philippines. If traveling there, why not make a side trip to Bontoc for a day or two? This small, quiet town is surprisingly blessed with incredible natural wonders.

Top things to do in Bontoc

• Get a panoramic view of the town and mountains at the Bontoc View Deck
• Trek Mt. Kofafey and witness the sunrise and sea of clouds
• Be mesmerized by the beauty of Maligcong Rice Terraces
• Take a dip at the enchanting Blue Lagoon

Where to stay in Bontoc

• Suzette’s Maligcong Homestay
• Vilma’s Home Stay
• Ridgebrooke Hotel and Restaurant
• From Manila, ride a Coda Lines bus bound for Bontoc or Sagada and get off at Bontoc (travel time: 11 hours).
• From Baguio, ride a taxi to Dangwa Terminal or Slaughter House and ride a D’ Rising Sun bus to Bontoc (travel time: 6 hours).
• From Sagada, ride a jeepney to Bontoc across the public market (travel time: 2 hours).

Ideal for: Families, barkadas , backpackers, adventure seekers, nature lovers

Cagayan V alley’s smallest and youngest province is an emerging eco-adventure destination named after a former Philippine president . Quirino makes up for its lack of beaches through its breathtaking waterfalls, pristine rivers, limestone caves, verdant mountains, and other hidden natural attractions.

Top things to do in Quirino

• Cruise the Cagayan River at Governor’s Rapids in Maddela or Siitan Park in Nagtipunan
• Have an adrenaline-pumping wakeboard adventure at Quirino Watersports Complex in Cabarroguis
• Trek to the different waterfalls in Quirino and take a dip in the clear water
• Go spelunking at Aglipay Caves and other amazing caves in Quirino
• Visit different ancestral villages to experience the cultures of various indigenous tribes 

Where to stay in Quirino

• Capitol Plaza Hotel
• Villa Caridad Hotel & Resort
• Quirino Water Sports Complex Hostel
• Via bus: From Manila, ride a Florida/Five Star/Solid North bus to Maddela, Quirino.
• Via plane: Fly from Manila to Cauayan City, Isabela. From the Cauayan Airport, ride a van to Santiago City. From the terminal, ride a van or jeepney to Aglipay, Cabarroguis, Diffun, or Maddela in Quirino.

4. Jomalig Island

Ideal for: Beach bums, nature lovers, solo travelers, couples, barkadas

Reaching this remote island in Quezon province is an adventure in itself. While that sounds difficult , you’d be glad you took the challenge. The golden sand beaches and turquoise water on secluded Jomalig Island are fantastic—the long trip will be worth it!

Top things to do on Jomalig Island

• Explore Jomalig’s unspoiled beaches: Salibungot Beach, Kanaway Beach, Little Boracay, etc.
• See and take a photo with the Puno ng Walang Forever , Jomalig’s most famous tree
• Visit Lingayen Cove aka Little Batanes
• Watch the breathtaking sunrise at the beach

Where to stay on Jomalig Island

• JoJomalig Beach Resort
• Apple Beach Resort

Take a Raymond Transportation bus from Manila to Infanta, Quezon (travel time: 4-5 hours). Get off at Ungos Port, where you’ll ride a boat to Jomalig Port (travel time: 4-6 hours). Upon arriving at the port, ride a motorbike or habal-habal to your resort.

5. Caramoan Islands

Ideal for: Beach bums, nature lovers, adventure seekers

Caramoan is Bicol’s secret paradise, perfect for beach junkies who want to escape the stressful city life. Fall in love with its fine white-sand beaches, diverse marine life, and other natural wonders that rival the top tourist spots in the Philippines.

Top things to do in Caramoan

• Enjoy island/beach hopping and water activities (kayaking, snorkeling, or scuba diving) at Sabitang Laya, Gota Beach, Hunongan Cove, etc.
• Explore the caves of Caramoan: Omang Cave, Culapnit Cave, Manipis Cave, etc.
• Hike up Mt. Caglago to get a panoramic view of the Caramoan Islands
• Climb the sharp rock cliff on Matukad Island
• Eat kinalas (noodles in thick brown broth) 

Where to stay in Caramoan

• Tugawe Cove Resort
• La Casa Roa Hostel
• Casita Mia Bed & Breakfast

From Manila, fly to Naga City Airport in Pili, Camarines Sur. Ride a van or taxi from the airport to SM Naga. At the van terminal, ride a van called Filcab to Sabang Port. When you reach the port, take a boat to Guijalo Port. Ride a tricycle to Caramoan town center.

The Department of Tourism recognizes Romblon as one of the emerging tourism destinations in the Philippines. Heading to Boracay soon? Consider taking a side trip to the secluded, laid-back beaches of Romblon for relaxation.

Top things to do in Romblon

• Climb up the scenic Mt. Guiting-Guiting on Sibuyan Island
• Tour Romblon’s hidden gems: Carabao Island (the “next Boracay” 10 ), Cresta de Gallo, Balabara Beach, Bonbon Beach, etc.
• Explore different dive spots across Romblon
• Buy marble products as souvenirs at Romblon Shopping Center

Where to stay in Romblon

• The Beach House
• Romblon Fun Divers & Inn
• Sanctuary Garden Resort
• From Manila, fly to Tugdan Airport in Tablas, Romblon.
• From Boracay, walk to Bulabog Beach and hire a boat to Carabao Island.

Ideal for: Beach bums, nature lovers

Masbate may not be the top-of-mind choice for traveling to the Bicol region, but it does offer a unique experience. For one, you can live like a cowboy in the Rodeo Capital of the Philippines—with its rolling hills, ranch life, and an annual festivity reminiscent of the Wild West.

For nature enthusiasts, Masbate offers unspoiled beaches, marvelous rock formations, stunning waterfalls, and other natural wonders. 

Top things to do in Masbate

• Go scuba diving, swim with manta rays, and see other marine creatures at Manta Bowl shoal
• Revel in the beauty of Masbate’s natural attractions: Buntod Sandbar and Marine Sanctuary, Burubancaso Rock Formation, Sese Brahman’s Ranch, Catandayagan Falls, etc.
• Watch the dreamy sunset or camp out at Mayong Payong
• Experience the Rodeo Masbateño Festival in April

Where to stay in Masbate

• Ticao Island Resort
• Ticao Altamar Boutique Resort
• Sabine’s Place

Take a direct flight from Manila to Masbate City.

Ideal for: Beach bums, history buffs, nature lovers, adventure seekers

Travelers easily overlook Antique because it’s surrounded by top tourist spots in the Philippines (Boracay and Iloilo) . But this quaint province deserves more attention. Being groomed as the next eco-adventure destination, Antique has so much natural beauty and historical and cultural heritage worth visiting.

Top things to do in Antique

• Visit Seco Island, a gorgeous white-sand beach with serene turquoise water and a sandbar
• Enjoy an adrenaline-pumping river tubing activity at Malumpati Cold Spring
• Indulge in a relaxing Kawa Hot Bath in Tibiao
• Trek to Antique Rice Terraces and admire its majestic view
• See Antique’s heritage sites: Anini-y Church, Patnongon Church, Ruins of San Pedro Church, Casa Azurin, etc.
• Check out the Rafflesia , the world’s biggest flower, in Sibalom Natural Park

Where to stay in Antique

• Bugang Riverside Inn
• Phaidon Beach Resort
• From Manila/Davao/Hong Kong/Singapore, take a direct flight to Iloilo International Airport. Ride a van from the airport to Molo Terminal. Then, take a van or jeepney ride to Antique.
• From Clark, Pampanga, take a Philippine Airlines flight to Antique Airport.
• From Boracay, ride a ferry to Caticlan Jetty Port (or a tricycle if you’re coming from Caticlan Airport). Take a Ceres bus to Antique. 

9. Guimaras

Ideal for: Beach bums, history buffs, foodies

Guimaras is another underrated province overshadowed by its neighbors, Iloilo and Boracay. The small island province—famous for growing the sweetest mangoes in the Philippines—is being promoted as an alternative to Boracay because of its white-sand beaches and proximity to Iloilo City. Discover what Guimaras has to offer before it becomes a mainstream tourist destination.

Top things to do in Guimaras

• Join an island-hopping tour of Guimaras’ best beaches: Nagtago Beach, Ave Maria Islet, etc.
• Visit different historical landmarks: Guisi Lighthouse, MacArthur’s Wharf, Roca Encantada, etc.
• See the Smallest Plaza, a Guinness Book of World Records holder for being the world’s smallest plaza
• Feast on mango-based dishes: mango pizza, mango bulalo , mango bibingka , mango beer, etc.
• Buy mango products (dried mangoes, jams, etc.) as pasalubongs

Where to stay in Guimaras

• Czech Beach House
• Jannah Glycel Beach House
• Raymen Beach Resort

From Manila/Davao/Hong Kong/Singapore, fly to Iloilo International Airport. Ride a van from the airport to SM Iloilo, where you’ll hail a taxi or jeepney to Ortiz Wharf. Take a ferry ride to Jordan Port. From the port, ride a tricycle to your resort.

10. Danjugan Island

Ideal for: Backpackers, nature lovers, adventure seekers, beach bums

Danjugan Island is a protected marine and wildlife reserve sanctuary in Cauayan, Negros Occidental. With its lush rainforest and unique biodiversity, Danjugan is indeed a paradise. 

This ecotourism destination won’t just wow you with its pure beauty but will also let you experience a rustic, back-to-basic lifestyle (no electricity and no cellphone signal). It is perfect if you’ll be on a digital detox. 

Most importantly, a short stay on the island will teach visitors the value of environmental conservation.

Top things to do on Danjugan Island

• Appreciate Danjugan’s beauty through kayaking or sailing
• Explore its rich marine life through snorkeling or scuba diving
• Trek into limestone and mangrove forests, beaches, lagoons, and other natural attractions
• See a variety of bird species at the birdwatching view deck
• Watch the sunset at Turtle Beach

Where to stay on and near Danjugan Island

Tourists have two accommodation options when traveling to Danjugan: an overnight stay in an open-air cabana (Moray Lagoon Camp) or a private room (Typhoon Beach) on the island or book a resort outside Danjugan in Sipalay City.

Best Sipalay resorts near Danjugan:

• Punta Bulata Resort & Spa
• Artistic Diving Resort
• Jamont Hotel

From Manila, fly to Bacolod-Silay International Airport. Ride a taxi or Grab car to the South Ceres Bus Terminal. Catch a bus to Hinoba-an from the terminal and get off at Crossing Remollos-Quadro de King. Take a 30-minute boat ride to Danjugan Island.

11. Biliran

Biliran is relatively unheard of, even among Filipinos. Not many know it’s a province (Biliran used to be a sub-province of Leyte before becoming independent in 1992)—much less a tourist destination. 

This small province is brimming with natural and man-made wonders; a weekend getaway is not enough to experience everything it offers. Be in awe of its beautiful mountains, rice terraces, waterfalls, caves, and beaches.

Top things to do in Biliran

• Trek to the photogenic Ulan-Ulan Falls, one of Biliran’s most beautiful waterfalls
• Go island-hopping on Higatangan Island (famous for its sandbar that changes shape and color), Sambawan Island, Dalutan Island, Agta Beach, etc.
• Visit Biliran’s historical and religious sites: Nasunugan Watchtower Ruins, Pilgrimage Site of Padre Gaspar, Almeria Church, etc.
• Discover the mystery of Tingkasan Bat Cave
• Bask in the majestic view of Iyusan Rice Terraces in Almeria

Where to stay in Biliran

• Napo Beach Resort
• GV Hotel Naval
• Via Cebu: From Manila/China/Hong Kong/Singapore/South Korea/Taiwan/Kuala Lumpur/Tokyo/Dubai, take a flight to Mactan Cebu International Airport. Ride a taxi from the Mactan Airport to the port where you’ll take an overnight trip to Naval, Biliran.
• Via Tacloban: From Manila, fly to Tacloban City Airport. Ride a jeepney from the airport to Tacloban downtown, then take a shuttle bus to Naval.

12. Kalanggaman Island

You might have already seen breathtaking aerial shots of Kalanggaman Island online . But viewing such images pales in comparison to personally experiencing the uninhabited island’s white powdery sand beaches and pristine blue water .

Top things to do on Kalanggaman Island

• Enjoy different water activities: swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, scuba diving, banana boat, etc.
• Chill under the trees and mingle with the locals
• Take a side trip to the top attractions in Palompon: Tabuk Marine Park and Bird Sanctuary, Masaba Falls, St. Francis Xavier Church, Lantaw Palompon, etc.

Where to stay near Kalanggaman Island

Kalanggaman has no beach resorts or hotels, but overnight camping is allowed. If you want to spend the night on the island, renting or bringing your tent is your only choice. 

If camping is not your thing, you may book a hotel in Palompon or Ormoc. Here are the best accommodation options for your Kalanggaman escapade:

• Palompon Sugar’s Inn
• Sergi’s Resort and Hotel
• Ormoc Villa Hotel
• From Manila, fly to Tacloban, Leyte. Take a taxi or tricycle from the airport to Vansvans or Duptours terminal. Take a five-hour van ride to Palompon and then a one-hour boat ride to Kalanggaman Island.
• If you’re traveling from Cebu, the most convenient way to access and enjoy Kalanggaman is to join a day tour that will pick you up from your hotel in Cebu, take you to the island, and bring you back to the hotel.

13. Siquijor

Siquijor is synonymous with witchcraft, sorcery, and mythical creatures . But fear not—the small, mystic province is not as scary as you imagine.  

It’s considered one of the emerging favorite tourist spots in the Visayas, welcoming an increasing number of visitors 11 lately. Why is that so? Unknown to many, Siquijor has spectacular beaches, caves, nature parks, and historical attractions.

Top things to do in Siquijo

• Unwind, swim, or swing ala Tarzan into the water of Cambugahay Falls in Lazi
• Explore Siquijor’s best beaches: Salagdoong Beach, Kagusuan Beach, and Paliton Beach
• See the 400-year-old balete tree and have fun taking photos with it
• Visit Siquijor’s historical landmarks: Lazi Church, Siquijor Church, etc.
• Go spelunking at Cantabon Cave
• Trek to Mt. Bandilaan National Park

Where to stay in Siquijor

• RhenMart Inn
• Infinity Heights Resort
• Coco Grove Beach Resort
• Fly from Manila to Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental. From the airport, ride a jeepney or tricycle to Dumaguete Port. Then, take a ferry ride to Siquijor.
• If you take a side trip to Siquijor from Dumaguete, you can easily book a day trip to the island . You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Dumaguete, toured around Siquijor’s best tourist spots, and bring you back to the hotel.

14. Bukidnon

Ideal for: Families, barkadas , adventure seekers, nature lovers

Bukidnon is a favorite destination among hikers and adventure junkies; it’s perfect for enjoying Mindanao’s great outdoors and cool weather. The mountain province offers plenty of natural and man-made attractions.

Top things to do in Bukidnon

• Challenge yourself and your travel buddies to extreme activities at Dahilayan Adventure Park: ziplining, free-fall ride, sky jumping, obstacle course, etc.
• Hike up Panimahawa Ridge and revel in the view of mountain landscapes and a sea of clouds
• Marvel at the Hobbit-inspired houses in Mt. Kitanglad Agro-Eco Farm
• Visit Del Monte’s pineapple plantation, one of the largest in the world
• Conquer Mt. Kitanglad, the fourth-highest mountain in the Philippines

Where to stay in Bukidnon

• Eiffel Kubo
• GV Hotel Valencia
• Hotel Valencia
• From Manila/Cebu/Davao/Iloilo/Zamboanga, fly to Laguindingan Airport in Cagayan de Oro. From the airport, ride a van to Agora Terminal and catch a bus to Valencia or Davao City, which also passes by Malaybalay City.
• Alternatively, look for a transport service outside the Cagayan de Oro Airport, where you can rent a car or van that travels directly to Bukidnon.

15. Mati, Davao Oriental

Ideal for: Backpackers, adventure seekers, beach bums

If you travel to Davao City, consider adding Mati to your itinerary. One of the oldest towns in the Davao region, Mati will surprise you with the beauty of its famed Dahican Beach—the skimboarding capital of Davao—that boasts of powdery white sand and a laid-back vibe. Some tourists even find it more beautiful than Boracay.

Top things to do in Mati

• Enjoy a majestic view of the Sleeping Dinosaur or hike around the base of the hill
• Take a leisurely walk, relax, and try the famous empanada at Mati Baywalk
• Relax, swim, skimboard, or surf at Dahican Beach
• Visit the Subangan Museum, which showcases Davao Oriental’s historical and cultural heritage

Where to stay in Mati

• Senorita Suites
• Dahican Surf Resort
• Botona Dahican Beach Resort

From Manila, take a flight to Davao. Outside the Davao airport, ride a Bachelor Express bus to Mati. Or take a taxi to Gaisano Mall or Victoria Plaza and ride a van to Mati. Get off at Mati City Bus Terminal and charter a habal-habal or tricycle to your resort.

16. Maragusan, Compostela Valley

Ideal for: Families, nature lovers, adventure seekers

Dubbed the “Summer Capital of Davao Region,” Maragusan is excellent for tourists looking for an alternative to Baguio and Tagaytay to escape the scorching heat in Manila. Aside from enjoying cool temperatures, you can also soak up the beauty of Maragusan’s waterfalls and mountain landscapes. 

Top things to do in Maragusan

• Trek to and explore Maragusan’s majestic waterfalls: Tagbibinta Falls, Marangig Falls, and Pyalitan Falls
• Climb up Mt. Candalaga, a favorite hiking spot in Mindanao, and be impressed with its flora and fauna and its sea of clouds view
• Witness the P’yagsawitan Festival, a celebration of the rich cultural heritage of the Mansaka indigenous people 

Where to stay in Maragusan

• Haven’s Peak Highland Resort
• Aguakan Cold Spring Resort
• Kanlawig Hot Spring Resort

Fly from Manila to Davao Airport. From Davao City, ride a bus or van to Maragusan.

17. General Santos

Ideal for: Nature lovers, adventure seekers, foodies

General Santos City (GenSan) is known as Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao ‘s hometown and the gateway to other provinces in the SOCCSKSARGEN region. But these are not the only reasons to visit this city in South Cotabato. Traveling to GenSan is a must if you love nature and food-tripping. 

Top things to do in General Santos

• Discover why GenSan is the country’s Tuna Capital—visit the Tuna Fish Port, buy fresh tuna, and have it cooked your way
• Join a Pacman “Adventour” to see Pacquaio’s mansions, Wildcard Gym, Pacman Beach Resort, Pacman Farm, The Manny Pacquiao Hotel, etc.
• Trek to Sanchez Peak and enjoy a panoramic view of GenSan
• Have a satisfying culinary experience at different GenSan restaurants
• Take in a stunning view of Sarangani Bay at Sarangani Highlands in GenSan

Where to stay in General Santos

• Best General Santos luxury hotel: Greenleaf Hotel Gensan
• Best General Santos mid-range hotel: Avior Hotel
• Best General Santos budget hotel: Antonio’s Apartelle and Suites

From Manila, fly to General Santos International Airport in South Cotabato.

18. Glan, Sarangani

Ideal for: Backpackers, families, beach bums, adventure seekers, culture enthusiasts

Craving a Boracay-like experience but hate the crowd? Head over to Sarangani Bay, where the quaint coastal town of Glan awaits visitors who will take in its unadulterated beauty. Its powdery white-sand beaches make Glan worthy of the moniker “The Small Boracay of Mindanao.”

Beyond the stunning beaches, there’s more to see and do in Glan and its neighboring towns. Experience Sarangani’s natural wonders, cultural diversity, colorful festivities, and more!

Top things to do in and around Glan

• Chill out or enjoy water sports and activities (swimming, snorkeling, diving, volleyball, etc.) at Gumasa Beach and Isla Jardin del Mar
• Experience Sarangani Bay Festival, the largest beach festival in the Philippines, held every May in Glan
• Tour around Glan to see century-old, American colonial-period ancestral houses
• Get wet and wild on a whitewater tubing adventure along the Pangi River in Maitum
• Paraglide from the mountaintop in Maasim for a breathtaking view of Sarangani Bay
• Take an immersion tour at the Lamlifew Tribal Village in Malungon and discover the weaving tradition of the B’laan tribe, one of Sarangani’s most prominent ethnic groups

Where to stay in Glan, Sarangani

• Kamari Resort and Hotel
• Juanita’s Inn
• King James Hotel

From Manila, fly to General Santos. From the airport, ride a taxi to KCC Mall. Next to the mall is a terminal where you’ll ride a van to Glan. 

19. Sultan Kudarat

Ideal for: Backpackers, nature lovers, beach bums

Sultan Kudarat offers an exciting mix of natural attractions and cultural gems for travelers looking for a great side trip from Davao or South Cotabato. This little-known, underrated province is genuinely worth a visit.

Top things to do in Sultan Kudarat

• See the Sultan Kudarat Provincial Capitol building in Isulan and be wowed by its luxurious, Moro-inspired architecture and interior design
• Visit Baras Bird Sanctuary, home to a variety of bird species, in Tacurong
• Have a unique cultural experience at Talakudong Festival (held every September) that highlights the indigenous tribes in Sultan Kudarat and nearby provinces
• Explore the rich marine life and watch the golden sunset on Balet Island in Kalamansig
• Take a relaxing dip at Margues Hot & Cold Spring in Esperanza, Lagandang Hot/Sulphur Spring in Isulan, or Nuling Hot Spring in Lebak

Where to stay in Sultan Kudarat

• King Bayya Residences
• WoodLand Tourist Inn
• EDJIN Pension House  

From Manila, fly to General Santos and then ride a multi-cab or taxi to Bulaong Public Terminal. Ride a bus or van from the terminal to Tacurong City, Sultan Kudarat.

20. Lake Sebu, South Cotabato

Ideal for: Culture enthusiasts, nature lovers

Lake Sebu is South Cotabato’s summer capital and primary eco-cultural destination. Tourists visit the charming town for its Instagram-worthy natural scenery (including its enchanting lakes), cool weather, and vibrant indigenous culture. 

Top things to do in Lake Sebu

• Join a cruise around Lake Sebu and immerse in the T’boli culture
• Trek to the Seven Waterfalls of Lake Sebu and ride the zipline, which is the highest in Asia
• Watch how T’nalak, the traditional T’boli fabric, is woven at Lang Dulay T’nalak Weaving Center
• Wear a traditional T’nalak ethnic costume for a photo-op
• Visit the T’boli School of Living Traditions and learn T’boli native dance and music
• Sample different tilapia dishes (fried, grilled, steamed, kinilaw, etc.)

Where to stay in Lake Sebu

• Sunrise Garden Lake Resort
• Punta Isla Lake Resort
• El Galong Waterpark Resort

Fly from Manila to General Santos, then ride a taxi or multi-cab to Bulaong Terminal. Ride a van that will take you straight to Lake Sebu terminal. From the terminal, ride a jeepney or rent a habal-habal to Lake Sebu.

Top 5 New Beautiful Tourist Spots in the Philippines to Watch Out for

More tourist destinations in the Philippines are propping up. President Rodrigo Duterte approved laws declaring several sites in the country as new tourist spots 12 . This means the new tourist destinations will be funded and developed to boost tourism in their respective areas.

Here are the five new attractions in the Philippines that travelers should explore:

1. Mount Bulaylay

Mt. Bulaylay has the longest and tallest zipline in Nueva Ecija , making it the primary tourist spot in Cuyapo town. The local government of Cuyapo plans to develop it into an eco-tourism park.

2. Candon City Ecotourism Zone

Here’s another reason to visit Ilocos Sur besides the historic city of Vigan: a new ecotourism destination in Candon City is in the works. The Ecotourism Zone in Candon houses a sprawling watershed, and the local government hopes to lure tourists by offering recreational activities nearby. 

With the recent opening of the newly built Heroes bypass road in Candon, the city’s tourist spots—including the new ecotourism zone—will be more accessible.

3. Santiago Cove

Ilocos Sur has its version of Boracay in Sabangan Cove (aka Santiago Cove). Like Bora, Santiago Cove boasts white sand and serene, crystal-clear water. Visitors can swim, dive, or unwind while appreciating the beauty of the beach.

4. Pinsal Falls

Another hidden treasure of Ilocos Sur, Pinsal Falls (aka Twin Falls) is an 85-foot cascading waterfall—the largest in the Ilocos region—located in Sta. Maria.

Trek to reach the top of Pinsal Falls. Small jacuzzi-like pools sit above the falls, where tourists can dip into the cold water and enjoy a stunning landscape view .

5. Hinatuan Enchanted River

The Enchanted River in Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur isn’t exactly a new tourist attraction, though more tourists have recently discovered it. Still, up to this day, not many people know that this mesmerizing natural wonder exists.

The river is nothing less than magical, as its water changes from aquamarine to blue, depending on its shifting depth. Locals believe that fairies and other mythical spirits protect the river—this adds to the river’s mystical nature.

Tips and Warning

1. never lose your temper when dealing with locals.

Filipinos have a lot of admirable qualities—but punctuality is not one of them. Expect that your flights will be delayed, the food will be served late, the tour won’t start on time, and so on. We have a label for this tardiness habit: Filipino Time .

Lashing out at the flight attendants, waiters, or tour guides won’t improve the situation . You’ll end up wasting your time and energy. Worse, you might become the next viral sensation on social media, like the Chinese tourist who assaulted a cop 13 in a train station.

Be more patient, calm, and diplomatic when dealing with locals on your Philippine trip . You might get better service that way.

2. Pack light and loose clothing

In most tourist spots in the Philippines, the weather tends to be very hot and humid, especially during the summer. Make sure you’ll be comfortable on your trip by bringing clothes that won’t make you sweat buckets.

3. Respect local culture and tradition

Most Filipinos, especially in far-flung places, are conservative. So be careful with what you wear and what you do while vacationing in the Philippines.

Wearing skimpy clothing, skinny dipping, and kissing in public may be acceptable in your home country, but these things can offend the locals and make them uncomfortable. Learn a lesson from a Taiwanese tourist fined for wearing a string bikini 14 in Boracay.

Also, places (like mountains, churches, etc.) and religious rituals are sacred to the locals. This is why researching the destination before a trip is crucial . Be mindful and respectful of the customs in the places you visit in the Philippines. Don’t be noisy and rowdy in sacred places and during rituals.

4. Respect the environment

As a tourist, your role goes beyond just visiting a place. So you can enjoy the place as much as you did the first time you visited , do your share in preserving the environment. This couldn’t be more crucial in the Philippines, where natural resources abound. 

Simple practices—like not leaving trash on the beach, not stepping on corals, and not disturbing marine life and wildlife—prevent harming the environment. Know the guidelines before you go. If you aren’t sure about something, ask your tour guide.

5. Beware of tourist scams

Taxi scams, especially at the airport, often happen to foreign tourists in the Philippines. When hailing a taxi, ensure the driver agrees to use the meter. Otherwise, you might be charged a fixed and steep price.

If the driver refuses your request, wait for another taxi. Book a ride via an app like Grab, Micab, or Hirna.

Also, beware of pickpockets in crowded areas (like malls and markets), jeepneys, and buses. Don’t put your valuables in the back pocket of your pants or backpack. Store them safely in a belt bag or sling bag instead. 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. is the philippines safe to visit.

Yes, it’s generally safe to travel to the Philippines. While there are valid concerns about violence due to terrorism and the nationwide campaign against illegal drugs, these are isolated cases that don’t happen in the entire country. 

For peace of mind, read up and follow any travel alert issued by your government. It also helps to research the peace and order situation in the place you plan to visit, not just in the Philippines but in other countries.

As for the Philippine tourist spots featured in this post, rest assured that these destinations are safe to visit. Of course, you also have to do your part in ensuring your safety anywhere you go.

2. Do I need a visa to visit the Philippines?

Tourists from most parts of the world can enter the Philippines without a visa for a temporary visit of up to 30 days. Holders of Hong Kong and Macau passports can stay in the Philippines visa-free for up to 14 days. Check the Department of Foreign Affairs website for the list of visa-free countries. However, a visa is required for passport holders of certain countries like China, North Korea, India, the majority of the Middle East, and a few parts of Africa and Europe.

3. When is the best time to visit the Philippines?

When traveling, the right time to visit the country depends on your purpose, preference, or priority. If you want good weather, especially in a beach destination, schedule your trip in the dry season from November to May. The wet season starts in June and ends in October, so avoid this period if you don’t want the rain to ruin your trip.

Looking to experience what it’s like to have “more fun in the Philippines”? Visit during the summer when most festivals and events are held and when beaches are most beautiful. For those who want to avoid the crowd and score cheaper travel deals, avoid the peak season. Christmas, Holy Week, and other holidays and the summer months from March to May are the busiest tourist season. 

The top tourist spots in the Philippines also get crowded with tourists on weekends. While it’s good to visit in the off-peak season, it’s better to schedule your visit in the shoulder months of May to June and October to November for a lesser chance of rain. The rainy season in the Philippines is an ideal time to visit for surfing (as waves are stronger) and visit waterfalls (as the water isn’t dried up). 

4. How many days are enough to visit the Philippines?

The ideal duration of your stay depends on the number and types of destinations you’ll visit. Two to three days are enough to explore a beach destination like Boracay and Bohol. If you visit Puerto Princesa, El Nido, and Coron in Palawan, you should spend more than a week exploring the best tourist spots there.

Consider extending your stay for a week if you have side trips to nearby tourist spots (e.g., Iloilo-Guimaras/Antique trip). Your trip could be longer, lasting for about two weeks to a month, if you’re a backpacker hopping from one island or province to another (e.g., Palawan-Cebu-Bohol trip).

In destinations like Intramuros, Vigan, Tagaytay, Subic, and Bataan, a day trip, an overnight or weekend trip will cover all the best attractions. 

5. How do you get around in the Philippines?

The most popular and cheapest transport options are jeepneys and tricycles.  Habal-habal  (motorcycle ride) is common in the provinces, too. However, if you’re traveling with a group (especially with kids and the elderly), go for convenient modes of transport like taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab (available in certain areas only). These vehicles are typically used to get to the city or town proper from the airport.

You can explore places on foot for short distances and areas where public transportation is almost non-existent. Buses and vans are the common transport choices when traveling from one town or city to another, while boats are used for traveling to different islands or beaches.

To get to a province in the Philippines from your home country, the usual jump-off point is in Manila. For instance, you have to fly to Manila to reach Palawan or Davao.

6. How much money should I bring to the Philippines?

The average daily cost per traveler in the Philippines is around ₱1,500 or less, depending on the destination. Cash is the country’s most accepted mode of payment, so be sure to bring enough for your entire stay, especially if you travel to remote areas that don’t accept credit cards and have no ATMs.

Consider also that travelers can bring up to $10,000 (or its equivalent in another currency) into or out of the Philippines. You can carry a higher amount, though. But you’re required to declare it upon arrival at the Bureau of Customs Desk at the airport. If you don’t, you may be fined or jailed, or your money may be confiscated. 

7. How do I travel for cheap in the Philippines?

The Philippines is one of the cheapest countries to visit, luring budget travelers worldwide. But, of course, you can further save on your travel costs.

Here are some quick tips for cheaper travel to the Philippines:

a. Book flights, accommodations, and tour packages early. b. Fly with budget airlines (the most popular are Cebu Pacific and AirAsia) offering discounted airfare and wait for seat sales when prices drop significantly. c. Travel during weekdays and off-peak season when hotels and tour operators offer significant discounts and other great deals. d. Travel to cheaper destinations like Guimaras, Masbate, Bontoc, and other underrated tourist spots in the Philippines. e. If you can, go for DIY travel and plan your trip.  f. Visit free and cheap attractions like parks and museums. g. Eat at small eateries (locally called  carinderia ), fast-food restaurants (Jollibee and Mcdonald’s are the most popular), and mall food courts. 

8. Can I fly a drone in the Philippines?

Yes, flying a drone is allowed in the country, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP). However, specific rules must be followed before and while operating your unit. 

Here are the most crucial drone regulations to keep in mind:

a. Secure a permit from the local government office to fly a drone. b. Fly only in the daytime and good weather. c. Get a Certificate of Authorization from the CAAP if you fly a drone that weighs at least 7 kg. or 15 lbs. or for commercial purposes. d. Don’t fly within 10-km. radius from an airport. e. Avoid flying in crowded areas like markets and schools. f. Fly only up to 400 ft. above ground level.

• Boracay still among ‘most Instagrammable’ places in the world: travel website (2023) ABS-CBN News . Available at: https://news.abs-cbn.com/life/02/02/23/boracay-among-most-instagrammable-places-in-the-world (Accessed: 30 August 2023).
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• Adel, R. (2023) Bohol named the Philippines’ first UNESCO Global Geopark , philSTAR.com . Available at: https://www.philstar.com/lifestyle/travel-and-tourism/2023/05/25/2268942/bohol-named-philippines-first-unesco-global-geopark (Accessed: 30 August 2023).
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• Purnell, K. (2023) Bacolod ranked least expensive tourist destination in the Philippines — study , philSTAR.com . Available at: https://www.philstar.com/lifestyle/travel-and-tourism/2023/04/05/2257110/bacolod-ranked-least-expensive-tourist-destination-philippines-study (Accessed: 30 August 2023).
• ‘Very friendly’ Dumaguete named top retirement spot in PH. (2018). Retrieved 7 November 2019, from https://news.abs-cbn.com/life/08/13/18/very-friendly-dumaguete-named-top-retirement-spot-in-ph
• Fuentes, A. (2018). The search for the next Boracay: Carabao Island, Romblon. Retrieved 7 November 2019, from https://news.abs-cbn.com/life/multimedia/slideshow/05/29/18/the-search-for-the-next-boracay-carabao-island-romblon
• Dagooc, E. (2019). Siquijor tourist arrivals hit record high in 2018. Retrieved 7 November 2019, from https://www.philstar.com/the-freeman/cebu-business/2019/05/10/1916636/siquijor-tourist-arrivals-hit-record-high-2018
• Corrales, N. (2019). Duterte declares 4 new PH tourist destination sites. Retrieved 7 November 2019, from https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1158790/duterte-declares-4-new-ph-tourist-destination-sites
• Perez, A., & Villaruel, J. (2019). Chinese woman to face charges over viral ‘taho’ tantrum at MRT. Retrieved 7 November 2019, from https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/02/09/19/chinese-woman-to-face-charges-over-viral-taho-tantrum-at-mrt
• Burgos, N. (2019). Taiwanese tourist fined in Boracay for wearing just a ‘string’. Retrieved 7 November 2019, from https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1176343/taiwanese-tourist-fined-in-boracay-for-wearing-just-a-s

Written by Venus Zoleta

in Juander How , Travel and Leisure

Last Updated August 30, 2023 05:43 PM

Venus Zoleta

Venus Zoleta is an experienced writer and editor for over 10 years, covering topics on personal finance, travel, government services, and digital marketing. Her background is in journalism and corporate communications. In her early 20s, she started investing and purchased a home. Now, she advocates financial literacy for Filipinos and shares her knowledge online. When she's not working, Venus bonds with her pet cats and binges on Korean dramas and Pinoy rom-coms.

Browse all articles written by Venus Zoleta

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Travel Experts Choice: 27 Best Tourist Spots in the Philippines

By: Author Hannah

Posted on Last updated: 21 June, 2024

There are 7,641 islands in the Philippines. How do you decide which ones to visit?

We asked 30 travel experts what their favorite place in the Phillippines was and made this list of the best tourist spots in the Philippines. No matter where you go in the Philippines won’t be disappointed.

Top Tourist Spots In The Philippines

We’ve broken the list into the 3 island groups that make up the Philippine archipelago: Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Dividing 7,000+ islands into three groups is a very rough sorting, it will serve as a starting point to help understand the tourist areas of the Philippines.

Luzon Islands

The Luzon islands include Luzon itself, Palawan, Mindoro, Marinduque, Masbate, Romblon,  Catanduanes, Batanes, Polilio, and surrounding smaller islands. Luzon Island is the largest island in the Philippines, it’s 40,541 square miles in size.

You’ll more than likely start your Philippines trip here landing at the Manila airport. If you’re island hopping in the Philippines via plane most flights fly to Manila and then onward.

*When looking for the best price and biggest selection of hotels in the Philippines check prices on Booking.com , we’ve found they are the best option and have a great cancelation policy.*

Recommended By: Getting Stamped

There aren’t many places in the world that live up to all the hype. When we told fellow travelers we were traveling to the Philippines they all said one of the best places in the Philippines is El Nido . El Nido is the kind of place you could spend a week and never get bored.

Most of your time in El Nido will be spent out exploring the islands on the day tours. We highly suggest Tour A and Tour C if you only have time for two tours.  Secret Beach on El Nido Tour C we could spend the beach all day.

Crazy limestone cliffs surrounded by turquoise waters and hidden beaches are what to expect on day tours. After a day exploring the islands El Nido town has a great beach town vibe, with beach bars and happy hour specials to catch the sunset. A great selection of restaurants and hotels for every budget. El Nido is an adventure in itself getting to but it’s totally worth it.

If you considering purchasing a drone this is when you’d want one. Sadly on our trip, we didn’t have ours yet, it’s the perfect place to bust out the DJI Mavic and don’t forget to bring a Mavic ND filter .

Related Article: El Nido to Coron Ferry Guide

Coron is a great place to visit in the Palawan and one we’d recommend at least 3 nights unless you’re diving then you’ll need more time. Coron should be on all divers Philippines bucket list. Many of the dive sites you’ll need to be advanced open water certified and if you’re not yet it’s a great place to get certified. You’ll get the certification and see some amazing stuff too.

If you’ve ever seen a picture of Coron it’s more than likely from Kayangan Lake,  which is visited on day trips from Coron Town. Like other islands in the Philippines day trips to the surrounding islands will keep you busy during the day and at night you’ll head back to “town.”

Coron Town itself isn’t much of a party town, most tourists are exhausted after a day in the sun so call it an early night. We highly suggest making sure you stay at a hotel with a generator as power outages in Coron happen all the time sometimes lasting all night. We stayed at the Corto del Mar hotel which was great and they had really good food too.

Note: If you’re traveling to Coron by plane pick an earlier flight with Cebu Pacific. We had the afternoon flight and it got canceled after a delay because the airport in Coron doesn’t have runway lights so all planes much land before sunset.

Related Article: Things to do in the Palawan

Most tourists fly in and out of Manila and never leave the airport. When traveling to a new country it’s always good to spend a few days in the capital city and get a glimpse of the local life. We suggest going on a private Manila tour, this one is only $87 and is in a Jeepney the local way to get around in Manila.

We’re not going to lie Manila can be rough and it may shock you. We went on a slum tour in Manila to Smokey Mountain that was heartbreaking to see how many people live. Here is our 2 days in Manila itinerary to help plan your time in the city.

We suggest staying in Makati, which considered the cleanest, safest, and nicest area to stay in Manila. It’s the country’s financial and business hub with shopping malls and skyscrapers and the best hotel options .

Traffic in Manila is bad if you plan on only spending the night then stay close to the airport. Manila’s traffic is often ranked in the top 1o worst in the world, Metro Manila has been listed as being the densest city in the world based on population density, hence the traffic.

Related Article: Easiest Way – Manila to El Nido 

Sibuyan Island

Recommended by: Nikki and Michelle from Cheeky Passports

Sibuyan Island is one of the lesser-known islands in the Philippines despite its proximity to the more popular Boracay . We went to Sibuyan almost by accident after having to change our plans during Holy Week in the Philippines, when we discovered that the more popular destinations were mostly fully booked.

We had heard about the remote island nicknamed the ‘Galapagos of Asia’, and the difficulty of getting there due to the few transportation options available. We figured out that this would deter many people from traveling to the island and hoped that we could have it mostly to ourselves! In fact, during the 10 days we spent there, we only saw two other foreigners!

The mountain Guiting-Guiting stands tall in the midst of Sibuyan’s vast rainforest, surrounded by the island’s (only) ring road. Sibuyan’s coast is as stunning as it is rocky. There are no white sandy beaches typical of neighboring Boracay, no fancy restaurants or resorts.

There are instead, spectacular waterfalls, the cleanest river in the Philippines, and a wild, untamed jungle. Sibuyan quickly became our favorite destination in the Philippines due to its natural beauty which has not yet been spoilt by any form of mass tourism! We hope it stays that way!

Recommended by: Cat from  Walk My World

They may just be the most spectacular rice terraces in the world, and even better they still don’t see too many visitors. In the past, that’s been down to poor road access, but since I visited the road has been largely paved. Get there quick!

The journey to Batad is an adventure in itself: sitting on the roof of one of the Philippines’ famous jeepneys, before a short downhill hike to the terraces.

Nothing will prepare you for your first sight of the luminous green amphitheater. It’s a view you could stare at for hours and an amazing area for hiking. Some of the paths are pretty narrow so it’s a balancing act to keep from falling in, I had a number of close calls! The whole village feels far from the hustle and bustle of the rest of Asia.

The first thing you’ll notice after the taking in the sheer beauty of the area is the silence. How often can you say that in Asia?! It’s like stepping back in time, people still work the terraces much as they did 2000 years ago. After spending a year on the continent, I can definitely say it’s one of my favorite spots.

Recommended by: Darlene Madrid from  Point and Shoot + Wanderlust

Batanes is the northernmost province of the Philippines. Its landscape is often compared to New Zealand, and the like but I must say that Batanes has a charm of its own. From NAIA, there are direct flights to Basco (the provincial capital) once a day, but what makes it harder to go here is usually the price of the airfare. Also, flights are frequently canceled during monsoon season.

My flight was canceled three times before I got to fly to Basco and that’s what made my trip even more memorable. The province was very picturesque and I don’t think anyone can even take a bad photo here. We got to tour the 2 largest inhabited islands of Batanes – Batan, and Sabtang.

If you have more time, going to Itbayat will surely be an adventure that you’ll remember for the faluwa (local boat) ride is a death-defying stunt especially if the waves are strong. Take note that different bodies of water converge here so boat rides can be canceled in bad weather.

Apart from the breathtaking views, the local culture, and history, which makes Batanes even more amazing is how honest the people are. You can sleep with your house unlocked and you need not fear that anything will happen. It’s a zero crime rate in the province! One favorite of visitors is the Honesty Café – a shop unmanned and relies on the honesty of the people who will buy there.

Mount Mayon, Albay.

Recommended by: Michael Huxley from Bemused Backpacker

The Philippines is not short of superlative adventure travel or eco-travel destinations, especially ones where the landscape is breathtakingly beautiful, so to say that Albay and specifically Mount Mayon is among the best of them is no mean feat.

The near-perfect cone of Mount Mayon is the centerpiece for a burgeoning adventure tourism industry in Albay. ATV rides, zip-lining, kayaking, trekking and even hiking up this impressive – and still active – volcano.

The mountainous terrain is an adventure-lovers paradise, with the twin peaks of the neighboring mount Malinao and Masaraga giving even experienced mountaineers a challenge, and the surrounding forests offering lush eco-parks for hiking and even an enchanting waterfall or two! All these activities and more are fast making Albay the adventure capital of the Philippines and I love it.

But what makes me really love Mount Mayon is not the scenery or the myths and legends that surround the volcano. It is not even the activities themselves. It is the fact that many of these activities and the industries that support them from accommodation options to restaurants, are locally run, not supplanted by international branded chains. So by having an awesome time on and around the volcano, you are also supporting the local economy.

Recommended by Tom Stevenson from The Traveling Tom

When I first arrived in the Philippines, I had never heard of Sabang. It’s located on the island of Palawan, and I still didn’t know anything about the place when I got to Palawan! Going to Sabang was somewhat of an afterthought. We had booked a tour to the Puerto Princesa Underground River, which included a morning in Sabang. I didn’t even bother to check the place out on Google beforehand!

When we finally got to Sabang, I was blown away. It was absolutely beautiful! The beach was long and golden and virtually unhabituated. It felt like paradise! I kicked myself for not doing some research! After a brief stop at the beach, we went up to the hills surrounding the beach. From there we ziplined over the water, and down to the beach. It was an amazing way to take in the surroundings!

My only regret is that I didn’t get long enough to soak in and explore the beauty on offer in Sabang. I will certainly stay for longer when I return to the Philippines!

Batangas, Philippines

Recommended by: Jerny Destacamento from The Jerny

Batangas is a first-class province of the Philippines and its capital is Batangas City. It is bordered by the provinces of Cavite and Laguna to the north and Quezon to the east. Batangas is one of the most popular tourist destinations near Metro Manila, the capital city of the country.

The province boasts many mountains and beaches and is famous for excellent diving spots including Ligpo Island in Bauan, Anilao in Mabini, Sombrero Island in Tingloy, these areas more popularly known as Anilao. With its alluring shores and beaches, Batangas turns out to be a principal player in the tourism of the Philippines both locally and internationally. Batangas is also where Taal Volcano, the smallest volcano in the world resides.

Although attached to the big Island of Luzon, Batangas boasts of flora and fauna that is distinctively theirs and theirs alone. Batangas is also home to the “kabag” (Haplonycteris fischeri), one of the world’s smallest fruit bat. Although Batangas has these land flying mammals, marine wildlife remains to be the province’s crowning glory. In fact, in the second half of 2006, scientists from the United States discovered that the Sulu-Sulawesi Triangle has its center at the Isla Verde Passage, a part of the province.

Batangas is an all-around destination for adventurous and enthusiastic travelers. You can even enjoy mountain climbing and volcano trekking, stroll around the beaches, bask in the sun, scuba dive as Batangas is rich in marine biodiversity, learn about rich culture and history, and more!

Recommended by: Christine Rogador from The Travelling Pinoys

Tagaytay is a famous summer and weekend getaway destination in the Philippines. Located in the province of Cavite, it sits on a ridge above Taal Volcano which overlooks a panoramic view of the Taal Lake with the Taal Volcano island in the middle. It has always been one of my favorite places in the country due to its colder weather and accessibility from Metro Manila. You can reach the city within 2 hours and enjoy a relaxing weekend or summer.

The city also offers lots of things to do: from visiting organic farms, hiking the Taal Volcano and playing golf in the crater, visiting nearby islands and towns, amusement parks, museums, and historical places.

It is even better if you are a foodie, as Tagaytay has wide selections of good and award-winning restaurants. And if you are a healthy eater, there are organic farms that serve healthy and tasty food options. You can also enjoy a relaxing spa in one of the world-renowned country resorts in Tagaytay. You won’t definitely run out of things to do and food to try in this place!

Banaue Rice Terraces

Recommended by: Cal from Once In A Lifetime Journey

The Philippines may be most well known for its tropical islands, but one of my favorite places in this spectacular country is the Banaue Rice Terraces in the northern province of Ifugao. These terraces are often referred to as the “8th Wonder of the World” and for a good reason.

The terraces are said to have been built roughly 2,000 years ago, and from the looks of it, it must have taken a lot of time and effort. Once you take a look at the epic scenery and meet the most wonderful Ifugao people, the long drive you took to get there fades away as you breathe in the calm air of an ancient site.

This is a hiker’s paradise as Banaue is actually a conglomeration of four rice terraces. Each terrace is named according to the “barangay” (village, district or ward) in which it is located. You can, therefore, spend the day hiking the different terraces of Batad, Bangaan, Hapao and View Point. Remember to take your swimsuit as there are both hot springs as well as a chance for a refreshing dip by the Tappiya Falls.

Due to its remote location, this is a part of the Philippines that many tourists do not see. So make the effort to get there and you will be rewarded with incredible views of an impressive collaboration between man and nature.

Balabac, Palawan

Recommended by: Katherine from Tara Lets Anywhere

Balabac is one of the most beautiful places in the Philippines, and proof that there’s more to this Asian country than listed in popular blogs and television features.

Balabac is a municipality in the south of Palawan. To get here, you need to take a flight to Puerto Princesa, commute via bus or van to Rio Tuba and then take a morning boat to Balabac. There are a total of 30+ islands in this area, including the mainland Balabac where you can book accommodation and several others ideal for island hopping.

One of the reasons I love Balabac are the people. We were welcomed and well taken care of during our few days’ stay. Also, the seafood here is cheap and fresh; you can buy shrimps and lobster for a few hundred pesos or ask your guides/boatmen if they can go fishing during island hopping. Finally, there are the beaches.

The beaches in Balabac are blue, clear and definitely magazine-worthy. The sand ranges from chalk white (Punta Sebaring) to pink (Camiaran Island). There are also islands where you can spot sea turtles or groups of starfishes. Lastly, there’s the premiere Onuk Island, where you can free-dive to see sea turtles and giant clams.

For us, Balabac represents the ideal that the Philippines has to offer. It’s breathtakingly beautiful, it’s pristine and untouched.

Recommended by: Megan Indoe from Bobo and Chichi

When you think of the Philippines you most likely think of white sand, azure waters, and tropical islands. But the Philippines actually has more to offer, including the historical Spanish town and UNESCO World Heritage Site Vigan. Located on the west coast of the big island Luzon you can’t help but fall in love with adorable cobblestone streets, horse carriages, and gorgeous Spanish influenced architecture.

You will pinch yourself for a moment because you can’t believe you’re actually in Asia. Vigan is incredibly picturesque and unique because most old and historical structures in the Philippines haven’t survived over the years and yet somehow Vigan is perfectly intact from their influences of Spanish colonization dating back to the 16th century.

Don’t go to Vigan and miss out on trying their world-famous empanadas. You can easily find the outdoor markets which have one empanada stand after another. The empanadas are orange in color and sort of like a thin taco that has been deep-fried with meat and veggie fillings. For the best experience, dip your empanada in the Ilocos vinegar sauce with onions and chili.

Cagbalete Island

Recommended by: Bren from Bren On The Road

Cagbalete Island is a tiny island off the coast of Mauban, in southern Luzon. It’s about a six-hour journey from Manila to Mauban, and once you get to Mauban you’ll need to take a short ferry ride over to the island. What makes Cagbalete charming is how unassuming it is. Most people don’t even know it’s there – it’s got a couple of locally-run resorts, a tiny “town” and the local village – that’s about it.

Once you get there, however, you’ll be spoiled with endless stretches of white sand and crystal clear ocean. The local resorts, which are more than affordable, will pamper you with 3 meals a day of all kinds of Filipino treats. If you avoid Holy Week, there’s a good chance you’ll have the whole place to yourself too. If you’re in Manila and itching for some beach time, this might just be the place for you.

Recommended by: Anne Slater-Brooks from Travel The Globe 4 Less

Lake Taal is spectacular and truly unique. This stunning lake is not actually a lake but a volcanic crater that houses a delightful surprise – another volcanic crater. Like a Russian doll, the smaller crater sits within the larger crater and is a sight to behold.

It is an adventure just getting to Taal Volcano, especially if you choose to take a DIY Tour. You will need to jump on a selection of buses to Tagaytay, then hire a tricycle, then negotiate a fare for a boat from the outer crater shore, followed by a 40-minute hike up the crater sides to be rewarded with this gorgeous vista.

Along the way, you will catch the occasional whiff of sulphuric fumes belching from the underbelly of the hillside, and all-around your eyes can feast on sublime views of densely forested peaks rising from the waters. The memories of reaching the top will stay with me for a long time!

The Mindanao island group is named after the largest island Mindanao and made up of several other smaller islands in Southern Philippines. To island-hop around Mindanao, you’ll want to fly into Davao City , the largest city in the region.

Cebu Pacific usually has the best-priced flights and they often have really cheap promotion fares. There are tons of tourist spots in Mindanao from scuba diving, beach resorts, outdoor adventures, surfing, and much more.

Surigao del Sur

Recommended by: Aleah Taboclaon from Solitary Wanderer

The Philippines is chock full of wonderful destinations to visit, but (one of) my favorites is my home province of Surigao del Sur. Down south in eastern Mindanao, it doesn’t get as many tourists as the other top spots in the country, but it has a lot to offer for nature lovers.

There’s one of the cleanest rivers in the Philippines, for example – the Enchanted River, which, true to its name, is said to be a home of spirits. There’s Britania Islands with turquoise waters and fine white sand, and numerous waterfalls including the spectacular Tinuy-an Falls.

Surigao del Sur also has a lot of caves and some roadside springs like Libuacan Cold Spring that is unbelievably clear and clean. Because of its relative distance from the Philippine capital, it’s not on the usual list of places to visit by foreign tourists. Indeed, for an off the beaten path in the Philippines, Surigao del Sur is hard to beat.

Camiguin Island

Recommended by: Kay Rodriguez from Jet Farer

Located just south of Bohol, Camiguin Island is one of the Philippines’ most beautiful hidden gems. Upon first glance, the terrain is craggy and mountainous since it’s a pretty small island made almost entirely of volcanoes and their surrounding land.

The most unique thing about visiting this island is that, instead of miles of white sand beaches and big resorts, Camiguin’s true splendor lies in is its waterfalls, hiking opportunities, and access to unspoiled beauty.

I’ve visited Camiguin several times because my grandmother lives there, in a home located in the bustling town of Mambajao. Whenever I visit, I try not to spend too much time indoors. On the island, visitors can go swimming in cold springs, hot springs, and soda springs, where the water is naturally carbonated.

There are several waterfalls, the most notable being Katibawasan Falls and Tuasan Falls. Along with a local guide, you can hike to the crater of one of the island’s many volcanoes, including Mount Hibok-Hibok.

If the water is more your thing, there are many scuba diving opportunities, as well as day trips to small islands like Mantigue Island and sandbars like White Island nearby. If you’re looking for a more rugged, off the beaten path outdoor adventure, Camiguin is a stunning natural playground worth a stop on your Philippines itinerary.

Recommended by: Erica Villas from Girl Unspotted 

Known as the surfing capital of the Philippines, Siargao is one of those islands that remains in the middle of a hidden gem and a popular find. Not too elusive that it’s nearly impossible to get to, and not too popular that the authenticity is on the verge of disappearance, Siargao is that perfect find. If anything, Siargao is one of the most authentic islands I’ve seen in the Philippines.

Although the Western world has graced its influences here, such as the surfing culture in Siargao , Aussie smoothie bowls, and modernized hotels, the tropical Filipino island culture isn’t lost at all. Exploring the island can be quite mesmerizing as you lose yourself within the labyrinth of coconut tree plantations and the breathtaking beaches that will take you a world away.

Island hopping around Siargao is also an incredible way to pass the slow mornings, and it’s best done with the local tours as they will arrange it complete with a fresh grilled lunch that I can assure you just might be one of the best you’ve ever had.

Whether you’re a surfer or not, Siargao is one of the places you should absolutely consider as it’s perfect for anyone looking for a legitimate island getaway. Easily one of the Philippines’ best. I suggest going now before it gets too known.

Samal Island

Recommended by: Nicole Sunderland from Eat Live Drink Travel

Touted as the “beach island of Davao” – Samal Island is just a quick 10-minute boat ride from the hustle & bustle of the big city. Further down the coastline (about 45 minutes from Davao) there is the only 5-star luxury resort on the island called Pearl Farm Beach Resort , which has overwater bungalows offering 360-degree views of the pristine turquoise water.

This nearly untouched area of the island will wow you with its gorgeous grandeur, unparalleled hospitality, sensational dining, perfect spa treatments, and give you that moment of being in a true paradise.

One of the major attractions here is the giant clam sanctuary. You can take a tour out on the water to get to the clams and then you snorkel out to see them. The clams are protected and some of them are as big as 150 feet! No trip to the Philippines would be complete without stopping by Samal Island for a mix of luxury and adventure.

The Visayas is the group of islands, some small some large, in the central Philippines.  The largest of which are: Panay, Negros, Cebu, Bohol, Leyte, Samar, Siquijor, Biliran, and Guimaras. Cebu is a big hub to travel around the Visayas. When looking for flights to the Philippines the cheapest option would be to fly to Cebu or Manila.

Recommended by: Ivy Ko from Kollecting Koordinates

Located on the west coast of Cebu, Moalboal is one of our favorite destinations in the Philippines. We stayed at a B&B facing the sea, where we enjoyed the beautiful sunsets every evening. It is here where we witnessed the underwater phenomenon of the sardine run. Imagine swimming with hundreds of thousands of sardines in the open water, literally right in your backyard!

A paradise for divers, Moalboal is within minutes to the world-class dives sites like Pescador Island and an airplane wreck. Even if you don’t dive, the house reef is excellent for snorkeling with giant schools of fish and turtles.

Moalboal is the perfect home base for adventure seekers who are interested in canyoneering, chasing waterfalls, and the controversial swimming with whale sharks in Oslob. The beautiful waterfalls of Tumalog, Tanawan, and Kawasan are all in close proximity. You can also get your adrenaline fix by jumping into turquoise canyon waters of up to 50ft!

Pescador Island Hopping with Sardine Run, Dolphins, and Turtle Point Tour Only Online $37 

Recommended by: Hannah Canavan from Adventure Travel Family

Boracay has everything you could want from a small island, from spots of quiet solitude to watersports facilities. At just 7km long and half a kilometer wide, it is an ideal holiday spot for those who want to shun modern transport and explore the whole island on foot or by bicycle.

White Beach, the main strip of dazzling white sand, is 4km long and is a hub of activity. Visitors can enjoy glass-bottom boat trips, kayaking, and scuba diving in the crystal clear waters off the island. As postcard-perfect as the island is in the day, it is enchanting and vibrant at night. Fire dancers twirl on the sand as the sun goes down and live music fills the air. Intrepid explorers can get to Boracay in an hour by airplane from Manila or Cebu.

Those wanting something a little different can visit a bat cave; sit outside and watch the bats fly out to hunt at dusk. Don’t forget to check out Puka Beach on the northern tip of Boracay, which is often deserted and is exactly what one imagines a desert island to be. If you’re lucky with the tides you will spot locals collecting the ‘puka’ shells that they use to make the local jewelry that is sold on the island; buy a bracelet as the perfect memory of your trip.

Related Article: Boracay for only $20 a Day 

Guimaras Island

Recommended by: Cristal Dyer From Tofu Traveler

Guimaras Island is one of the smallest tourist destinations in The Philippines but it still offers a variety of attractions to the willing tourist. Guimaras’ claim to fame is for the sweetest mangoes in the world according to the Guinness World Records. Visit the National Mango Research and Development Centre which produces mangoes for both production and research purposes and try the only mangoes that are served at the White House and Buckingham Palace.

An island-hopping trip including Ave Maria Islet was one of my favorite activities in all of the Philippines. I got the chance to snorkel in some of the clearest waters where there was no need for a mask because you can easily spot the fish, coral, and starfish littered around the tiny island. The shore features fine, white sand and just enough space for maybe 20 people.

Also located just off the island, is SEAFDEC, an intergovernmental body established as a regional treaty organization to promote fisheries development in Southeast Asia. It sounds boring but it was really interesting listening to the passionate staff talk about their current research projects and see what it’s like to work and live in such a unique environment. The Station is comprised of four islets and floating cages interconnected by floating footbridges.

Malapascua Island

Recommended by: Miguel from TravelsAuro

Located only eight kilometers off the northern coast of Cebu, the island 
of Malapascua is one of the most beautiful and laid-back destinations 
you can find in the Philippines.  The island is world-famous for its fantastic diving spots, and there are many dive centers offering courses and day dives. It’s one of the few places in the world where you can encounter the great Thresher Sharks, which are present year-round.

The shark experience there is out of this world. These creatures are
 found at a 30-meter depth, and not too far from the coast. Dive centers ask you to be a certified diver, and ideally an advanced diver, to join them and enjoy the adventure.

If you’re not a scuba diver, don’t worry, Malapascua boasts lovely
 white-sand beaches, restaurants, and hotels! It’s a great destination to 
relax, have a swim and get a tan. Moreover, it’s not as touristy as some of the other
 islands. I love Malapascua because it’s tiny and easy to walk around.  If you walk to the northern part of the island, you’ll be able to visit traditional villages and friendly locals, feeling totally
 off the

Bantayan Island

Recommended by: Tom Grond from Travel Tom Tom

The way to get to this little island, a short boat ride away from northwest Cebu, is already a stunning journey through the hilly countryside of North Cebu. From the ferry terminal in Hagnaya Port, you reach Bantayan within 1 hour by ferry which is just $2.

The island itself is a truly untouched local experience off the beaten path in the Philippines. Most tourists head to the nearby and much popular Malapascua and that makes Bantayan the perfect island to get off the tourist trail.

The best thing to do is to rent a scooter and explore the rugged coastline around the island. Drive all the way North to get a glimpse of the beautiful Kota Sa Madridejos or take a day trip to the tiny but stunning Hilantagaan Island.

Stay on the Southwest side of the island, where you will find a local village with some restaurants, supermarkets, and a couple of nice homestays. This is also where you can find a typical picture-perfect Filipino white sand beach with crystal clear water. Bantayan is a truly local experience!

Recommended by Lisa van den Berg from Scuba Around The World

Dauin is located about 12 kilometers south of Dumaguete on Negros Oriental. This small coastal town offers world-class diving, which is the main reason why we visited. The Philippines’ most successful marine protected areas or marine reserves can be found along this stretch of coastline.  Nearby Apo Island is one of the oldest marine sanctuaries in the Philippines  Because of this the biodiversity is amazing.

The Dauin coast is famous for its excellent muck diving, but also offers some fun wreck dives and drift dives. It’s a macro photographers heaven. Along the coast, you’ll find a great number of dive resorts in different price ranges. We opted to stay at Liquid Dumaguete Dive Resort, which we really enjoyed. Dauin itself isn’t much, but nearby Dumaguete can be easily reached. Dumaguete is a lively town that offers lots of restaurants and a number of bars and nightlife options.

Recommended by: Marianne Rogerson from Mum On The Move

Bohol is famous for its crystal clear waters and abundant marine life and people flock here to take advantage of the endless stretches of white sand and the fabulous diving and snorkeling opportunities. Here you can go dolphin watching, swim with turtles and seek out the famous chocolate chip sea stars.

However, there is more to Bohol than just the beach and ocean, and the countryside is beautiful to explore too. The Chocolate Hills are Bohol’s most famous landmark. Unfortunately, they are not actually made from chocolate but named because the grass on them turns brown in the dry season and looks like chocolate. However, with more than 1,000 hills stretching over 50, it is still quite an impressive site.

Bohol is also famous as the home of the tarsier. These cute little creatures with the big bug eyes were thought to be the inspiration behind Yoda, E.T and the Gremlins (before they turned bad) and are endemic to Bohol. With only around 700 tarsiers left on the island, you can hunt them down in a Tarsier Sanctuary.

You should also take some time to explore Bohol by the river. You can take a lunchtime river cruise, go paddleboarding or for an amazing adventure, go firefly kayaking at night.

Recommended by: Abbie Synan from Speck On The Globe

With over 7,000 islands you are bound to find your own slice of paradise in the Philippines.  Each beach seems to be more stunning than the next, but one of my favorite places has to be Apo Island.  A marine reserve south of Negros Island, this small sliver of land is home to some famous Filipino Sea Turtles and is a great spot for diving.

The water is extremely clear, so the visibility of marine life was not an issue.  The turtles are used to seeing people so it isn’t difficult to swim with them at a safe distance and observe them without swimming away.

There are a few options to stay on the island or you can visit on a day trip if you are coming from Negros, Cebu or Siquijor.  There are only a few beach bars and restaurants on the island, I’d recommend arranging a packed lunch if you are just coming for a day trip so you can spend as much time in the water as possible.

There is no ATM on the island, so be sure you bring enough pesos if you are going to stay for longer than a day.  If you’re staying on the island, sunrise or sunset climb up to the old lighthouse offers some wonderful views.  This is the perfect place to appreciate marine wildlife and see the effects of sustainability helping a species.

Now we’ve shown you some of the best tourist spots in the Philippines we’d love to hear from you. What’s your favorite island in the Philippines or what do you think is the best beach in the Philippines?

Siargao Island Philippines: Everything you NEED to Know

Everything you need to know before you go to Siargao Island. Here’s our guide to this little piece of paradise called Siargao!

Things to do in El Nido Palawan Philippines | 2024 Travel Guide

Updated Travel Guide to El Nido Palawan from real travelers that have done everything in El Nido from best day trips to restaurants

Everything You Need to Know About Coron Palawan – 2024 Guide

Looking for picturesque islands in the Palawan? Head to Coron. Guide: where to eat, things to do in Coron, where to stay in Coron, travel to

Pin me to come back to when planning your trip to the Philippines. 

Brit on the Move

Friday 29th of March 2019

I've never been to the Philippines and this such a comprehensive list I am now wondering where to! If you had to pick one spot in the Philippines what would be it be? Thanks, Nikki

Hannah Lukaszewicz

Sunday 31st of March 2019

That's a tough one...we will always go back to the Palawan but there are so many island in the Philippines we want to explore!

Saturday 9th of June 2018

This is such an awesome detailed guide to the Philippines! The beautiful places in Philippines are toward the top of my travel list and this is so helpful in breaking down the top spots to visit as it makes things easier. El Nido especially looks and sounds amazing. Would love to dive there someday! Thanks for sharing this!

Tuesday 19th of June 2018

Glad we could help you pick out some of the best places in the Philippines. There are so many gorgeous islands in the Philippines to choose from it can be tough. El Nido is our favorite place too and great diving.

Wednesday 4th of April 2018

Have you been to Vigan? That's also a great place. It's like a mini Spain. The place is surrounded with old buildings like those you find in Spain. You also have to try Empanada (local delicacy) it's so good. Thanks for replying Hannah!

Thursday 5th of April 2018

No we personally haven't been to Vigan yet but we've heard great things about it. We love Empanadas!

There are many beautiful tourist spots in the Philippines. Definitely, El Nido is one of the best if not the best. If only they were extra careful of taking good care Boracay, they would have preserved its beauty. Good thing they are now finally taking action to restore how it's like before. Batanes is also good if you're into scenic landscapes.

Hopefully, Boracay will have a come back in the upcoming years. That will be a good example to protect the other islands in the Philippines. We'll have to check out Batanes too.

Tuesday 19th of December 2017

This post makes me want to return. Much as I loved Lake Taal, I didn’t realise there were so many other things to do close by. It’s a shame there isn’t more time!

I know we too didn't realize we were so close to so many other amazing tourist spots in the Philippines.

Best Places to Visit in The Philippines – 30 of The Best Tourist Spots

There are so many tourist spots in the Philippines that we’ve decided to put together this extensive list of the best places to visit.

The Philippines is home to just over 7,000 islands, each of them offering visitors unique experiences, cultures, and landscapes. From white sand beaches to lofty volcanic peaks. The Philippines really does have it all. 

So grab your instant camera , pack that beach bag and get ready to explore one of the most beautiful countries on earth.

Don’t leave home without:   Lonely Planet Philippines (Travel Guide)

30 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in the Philippines

Table of Contents

These days, if you see a beautiful picture of the Philippines, the chances are high that it may well be of Coron. This small group of islands north of Palawan is truly some of the most aesthetically pleasing in the country.

There are hundreds of small islands, beaches, lagoons, and lakes to explore by boat and the water is always incredibly clear. 

Related Article:   Coron Palawan: The Only Guide You Need

Our top recommended tours of Coron:

• Coron Ultimate Tour
• Full-Day Coron Island Ecotours

2. Corregidor Island

A trip to Corregidor is one of the best day trips from Manila. A cruise out across the bay of Manila takes visitors to this important and historic island, which was used to defend the city for centuries.

You can walk around the ruins of forts and tunnels that played a pivotal role during World War II and have a significant place in Filipino history.

Our top recommended tours of Corregidor Island:

• WWII and Corregidor Island: Historical Sightseeing Tour from Manila
• Corregidor Day Trip from Manila

3. El Nido, Palawan

Palawan is often cited as being one of the most beautiful islands in the entire world, and a large part of that recognition is found in spectacular El Nido . This small fishing village has fast grown into a tourist hot spot.

Visitors travel here to see the white sand beaches, turquoise waters and limestone cliffs as they island-hop their way around the spectacular surrounding area. This makes El Nido one of the top tourist spots in the Philippines. 

Our top recommended tours of El Nido:

• El Nido Island-Hopping Tour
• Palawan: Puerto Princesa and El Nido

4. Iloilo City

Iloilo City is centrally located in the Philippines and has gained a reputation for itself as the festival capital of the nation. People visit to experience the culture, arts, and music, as the locals are proud of their unique identity; a mixture of Hispanic and Filipino traditions.

Makati is one of the largest and most important areas within the sprawling Metro Manila area. It’s the country’s financial capital, it’s the most modern part of Manila and here you can find upscale restaurants, endless nightlife and sprawling shopping malls and entertainment centers.

6. Tagaytay

Tagaytay is an area south of Metro Manila known for its cool climate and beautiful volcanic scenery. It’s a favorite for those looking to escape Manila’s monstrous humidity, and there are many countryside restaurants and cafes to visit.

You also cannot miss the incredible Lake Taal, a freshwater lake found within the crater of a huge volcano. This is one of the best tourist spots in the Philippines. 

Our top recommended tours of Tagaytay:

• Manila Sightseeing plus Tagaytay Tour with Taal Volcano
• Tagaytay and Taal Volcano Day Trip from Manila

7. Puerto Princesa, Palawan

Puerto Princesa is the largest city on the island of Palawan, and just outside of this provincial capital is one of the Philippines’ most spectacular natural wonders, the underground river.

Under the mountains, a river stretches for several kilometers and a large part of it is navigable by small boats. The underground river has become one of Palawan’s most exciting attractions.

Our top recommended tours of Puerto Princesa:

• Underground River Day Trip from Puerto Princesa City
• Puerto Princesa Fireflies Watching with Dinner

8. Banaue Rice Terraces

The incredible Banaue Rice Terraces are a spectacular sight. Carved into the mountainside, for hundreds of years locals have been raising crops on these stepped rice terraces. The area is lush and green and the hiking options are immense.

9. Intramuros

Intramuros is the old, walled city of Manila that dates back to the days of the first Spanish colonizers in the Philippine islands. They built grand cathedrals and sturdy defenses that are today, still an integral part of the capital.

The best way to experience Intramuros is to simply walk the old cobbled streets of this historic area.

Our top recommended tours of Intramuros:

• Private Old and New Manila City Tour

10. Cagayan de Oro

Cagayan de Oro is the biggest city in Northern Mindanao. The city is becoming known as the whitewater rafting capital of the Philippines, as the nearby river is beautifully scenic and loaded with rapids suitable for all levels of rafters, from experts to those with absolutely zero experience.

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Philippines (Travel Guide)

11. Boracay

Boracay is an island that is both legendary and infamous amongst travelers. It’s one of the most visited islands in the Philippines, so much so that it has even had to be closed for several months to allow the environment to recover from over-tourism.

However, when it returns, there’s no doubt it will remain a place for party animals and white sand beach lovers to flock to for years to come.

Our top recommended tours of Boracay:

• Tirta Signature Massage in Boracay Island
• Discover Scuba Diving in Boracay
• Open Water PADI Diver Certification in Boracay

12. Siquijor Island

Siquijor is known as a mystical, strange island to Filipinos. The rugged island lies between Cebu and Mindanao and is famous for its traditional witch doctors and mystical local customs.

Sagada is a strange, yet intriguing place to visit in the mountains of Luzon. The area is famous for the way the locals bury their loved ones. They place them in coffins and hang them from the side of the cliffs.

G Adventures offers 9 multi-day trips through the Philippines . Simply use this link to book today.

14. Cebu City

Cebu City might not have the best reputation amongst visitors, and most travelers will simply pass through to reach the beautiful, quieter beaches and islands of Cebu rather than spending time here.

But Cebu City has a huge amount of history that few people actually see, from Spanish colonial forts to Catholic churches, while the city is home to some of the best cuisines in the country; it’s worth visiting just to sample the Pork Lechon.

Our top recommended tours of Cebu City:

• Oslob Whale Shark Watching, Kawasan Falls and Tumalog Falls
• Whale Shark Swimming Experience and Aguinid Falls from Cebu
• Cebu City and Mactan Coach Bus Tour

Oslob is famous for one thing, whale sharks. On the southern tip of Cebu Island, whale sharks congregate throughout the year and it’s possible to swim and dive with these beautiful, large fish in open water.

16. Malapascua Island

Malapascua is a small yet visibly stunning island in northern Cebu where life is slow and the views are always beautiful. The real attraction though is the chance to see the many hundreds of thresher sharks that appear every day to feed on the local reefs.

Our top recommended tours of Malapascua:

• Thresher Shark Dive from Malapascua Island
• PADI Open Water Course and Thresher Shark Dive

Bohol is just a short boat ride away from Cebu City, and it is one of the best places to experience adventure and adrenaline in the Philippines. The island is famous for the Chocolate Hills, a vast area of chocolate-colored mounds that look spectacular.

There are also many adventure parks with jungle zip lines, quad biking and much more.

Our top recommended tours of Bohol:

• Bohol Countryside Full-Day Tour
• Bohol Highlights Tour
• Private Bohol and Chocolate Hills with Loboc River Cruise

18. Panglao Island

Panglao Island is found just off the coast of the Bohol, and this is the place to be if you want to experience beach life. There are many resorts along the white sands of the islands, while out to sea there are reefs and a diverse array of marine life.

This is one of the more off the beaten path tourist spots to visit in the Philippines.

Davao is found in the south of Mindanao and is one of the largest cities in the Philippines. The locals are known for their love of Durian, the smelly fruit that people either love or hate.

The surrounding area is beautiful too, with the nearby Mount Apo being the highest mountain in the country and the spectacular Samal Island is one of the last unknown, resort-style islands in the Philippines.

20. Dumaguete

Dumaguete is one of the liveliest cities in Negros Oriental, as it’s a thriving University City. The city’s waterfront is the place to visit, with a bar and cafe culture like no other in the country.

Further afield, the natural scenery of the coastline is stunning, with ample chances to snorkel or dive.

21. Bacolod

Many people breeze through Bacolod on their way through Negros, but the city has much to offer those who stay in the way of history, colonial ruins and nearby eco-parks.

22. Romblon Island

Romblon is yet to appear on the mass travel radar, which is great because for now the beautiful islands of Romblon can be all yours. The area is known for its incredible, white sandbars and beautiful beaches.

Get here before the rest of the world does.

G Adventures offers 9 multi-day trips through the Philippines . Simply use this link to book today

23. Mayon Volcano

The Mayon Volcano is one of the most distinctive, conical volcanoes in the Philippines. Its sheer size is staggering, and favorite activities here include trekking and even quad biking around the base.

24. Mindoro

Mindoro is located just off the south coast of Luzon and is one of the larger islands in the Philippines. The island is the Philippines in a microcosm, offering everything from beaches, waterfalls, and hiking to resorts and nightlife.

After the more famous Oslob, Donsol in Bicol is the best place to see whale sharks. The tiny fishing village is a quiet, ramshackle place, but diving or snorkeling here with these huge whale sharks is one of the best experiences you could have anywhere.

26. Siargao Island

Siargao is definitely becoming one of the most visited tourist spots in the Philippines. This far-off island was once relatively unknown, except to the surfers who traveled here to experience the huge waves.

Recently, that has changed completely, as word has finally escaped to the rest of the world of the beautiful beaches and spectacular islands.

Tablas is actually the largest island within the Romblon Province, and it’s again one of the last really untouched places in this part of the central Philippines. It’s quiet, lazy and beautiful.

28. Mount Pinatubo

Mount Pinatubo has a notorious history of eruption, but this volcano in northern Luzon is one of the most impressive in the country. The huge lake at the summit formed during the last eruption and is beautiful to see.

29. Batanes

Batanes is one of the last frontiers left to be hit by tourism in the Philippines. It’s far off, in the extreme north of the archipelago and closer to Taiwan than to Manila, but it’s also like nowhere else in the country.

The scenery is rugged, more akin to Europe than the tropics, and the culture is completely unique.

30. Camiguin

Camiguin is off the beaten track as it gets in the Philippines. Known as the island borne of fire, this volcanic rock is a beautiful place to visit, with untouched waterfalls and one of the whitest sand beaches in the Philippines.

Due to its remoteness, this is one of the best-hidden tourist spots in the Philippines. 

Recommended Multi-Day Philippines Tours

• G Adventures Northern Philippines and Palawan Adventure – The colorful culture, pristine beaches, and colonial history of the Philippines aren’t easy to capture in just one trip but this 16-day tour is a pretty decent effort. Envelop yourself in colonial history within Manila’s former walled center and the charming town of Vigan, embark on a subterranean boat ride through an underground cave system and visit a self-governing penal colony. The Philippines’ beaches are some of the world’s best, so we’ve left plenty of time for snorkeling or simply just lounging on the beaches of El Nido. This way, your knowledge of the country will only deepen alongside your tan.
• G Adventures Philippines Palawan Adventure – If you’ve only got time for just one of the Philippines’ tropical destinations, Palawan is it. This eight-day tour brings you to the best of the province from El Nido’s stunning karst stone formations to its turquoise waters and colorful marine life beyond the ocean’s surface. Snorkel above colorful coral reefs, hike the rain forest and venture through a subterranean river network by boat. But if you prefer a more leisurely pace to your adventures, don’t worry. We’ve left plenty of time for beach bumming too, lounging on remote beach resorts, and cooling off in the waves.
• G Adventures Island Hopping the Philippines – Get a whole new appreciation for the night sky after camping on a beach under a blanket of stars free of light pollution. You’ll experience this and so much more on a 13-day island-hopping tour through the best of the Philippines’ nature, beaches, and cultural life. Roam Bohol’s famous Chocolate Hills (not suitable for consumption), snorkel with massive whale sharks in the clearest of clear blue waters (if the season is right), roam through exotic Manila and historic Cebu, and take a boat ride through Palawan’s mesmerizing subterranean river. From interacting with local communities to lots of free time built in, this trip is both meaningful and liberating. So go on and feel free.
• G Adventures Islands of the Philippines on a Shoestring – For travelers looking for a strange and beautiful adventure, this island-hopping adventure will show you the best of the Philippines’ nature, beaches, and cultural life. Roam Bohol’s famous Chocolate Hills (not suitable for consumption), snorkel with massive whale sharks in the clearest of clear blue waters (if the season is right), roam through bustling Manila, chill out in laid-back Siquijor, and soak up the beach vibes of Moalboal. From interacting with local communities to lots of free time built in, this trip is both meaningful and liberating. So go on and feel free.

More on the Philippines:

• Ultimate Philippines Travel Guide
• Culion Island Palawan: Is This the Next Philippines Hot Spot?
• Busuanga Island Palawan: Ultimate Guide to the Last Frontier
• Ultimate Puerto Galera, Philippines Guide: Diving & Beaches
• 36 Philippines Photos To Inspire Your Next Vacation
• 25 Amazing Drone Photos of the Philippines
• Crowning Glory Reef: World Class Snorkeling off Culion Island, Philippines
• Travel Recap: 4 Weeks in the Philippines

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Lina is an award-winning photographer and writer that has been exploring the world since 2001. She has traveled to 100 countries on all 7 continents. Member: SATW, NATJA, ATTA, ITWA

1 thought on “Best Places to Visit in The Philippines – 30 of The Best Tourist Spots”

I have heard a lot about the Philippines but never visited. The Philippines is very beautiful and the places are so exciting and adventurous. I just loved all these places you shared. I just love traveling and also love to explore new places, related to nature and I am very fond of nature, sceneries and so on. If possible in the near future, I will definitely explore these places for sure. Thank you for sharing these wonderful places.

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32 Things to do in The Philippines + Tourist Spots

After visiting 69 of 82 provinces in the Philippines, I’ve had countless beautiful experiences in this archipelagic country of over 7,600 islands. If you’re looking for places to add to your Philippines Itinerary, then this guide is for you!

Let’s start with a list of top destinations that are both easy to reach and exceptionally beautiful. If you’re traveling to the Philippines for the first time, these are the highlights you don’t want to miss. You fit  all these places into a two-week itinerary.

Next, I’m going to share the stand-outs. They may not be as easy to get to, but I highly recommend visiting if you’re adventurous and want to see places that truly stand out.

Lastly, I’ve included a long list of popular and interesting destinations in the Philippines so you can enjoy a virtual tour of what my home country has to offer. Consider visiting if you have an extended trip planned in the Philippines or if you’re a fellow Pinoy looking for places to go on your next holiday.”

The Philippines Tourist Spots

What to do & where to go in The Philippines? I got you! Here are places to visit, interesting attractions & things to do in The Philippines for your bucketlist/itinerary.

5. Boracay Island & Aklan

6. balabac islands, 7. batanes islands, 9. banaue, ifugao, 14. puerto princesa, 15. iloilo & guimaras, 16. clark & pampanga, 18. cagayan de oro & beyond, 19. dumaguete & negros oriental, 20. legazpi, bicol & mayon volcano, 21. tacloban, leyte, 22. baguio & benguet, 23. subic bay, 24. tagaytay & taal volcano, 25. lake sebu, 26. laoag & ilocos norte, 27. siquijor, 28. port barton & san vicente, 29. caramoan, 30. calaguas, 31. biri islands, samar, 32. enchanted river & surigao del sur.

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

View more travel tips in:   Singapore ,  ALL Destinations .

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Top Spots For First-Timers

Cloud 9 Boardwalk sunset in General Luna, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte, Philippines

Siargao made its first claim to fame as the Philippines’ surfing capital, and recently as the “Best Island in the World” (awarded by Condé Nast readers for 2018).This paradise has been on my favorites list ever since my first trip to the island a decade ago. What impressed me the most were the enchanting lagoons of Sohoton Cove, a natural wonder that’s well worth the 2-hour detour from the Cloud 9 surfing beach. The main island is filled with pristine natural spots as well, including white sand beaches, stunning islets, vast coconut forests, cool tidal pools & more.If you want to enjoy a laidback island lifestyle, Siargao is one of the best places that tourists can go to. You’ll find a mix of “foreign” and “local” here. It is remote yet accessible, and not too crowded despite the coming of new developments in recent years.

Location  — Surigao del Norte province, Caraga Region, Northeast Mindanao. Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Located along the eastern coast of the Philippines (facing the Pacific Ocean), Siargao is best reached by air. Fly direct to Sayak Airport (IAO) in Siargao Island from Manila, Cebu, or Clark. Flight duration is 2 hours from Manila or 1 hour from Cebu. From the airport, the land trip to Cloud 9 beach, the main tourist area, takes around 45 minutes. You can also reach Siargao by taking a flight to Surigao Airport (SUG), found in mainland Mindanao. Then, hop on a 1.5-hour fastcraft ferry to Dapa Port in Siargao Island.

Siargao Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts Check Fares

Top discounts

Siargao Surfing Lessons

Siargao Island Hopping (Daily) – Daku Island, Guyam Island, & Naked Island Day Tour

Sohoton Cove & Siargao Island Hopping Day Trip

Marcos at Magpupungko Rock Formation in Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte, Philippines Magpupungko Rock Formation, Siargao Island

Cloud 9 surfing in General Luna, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte, Philippines Cloud 9 surfing, Siargao Island

Cloud 9 Beach in General Luna, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte, Philippines Cloud 9 beach, Siargao Island

Sohoton Lagoons in Bucas Grade Island, Surigao del Norte, Philippines Sohoton Lagoons near Siargao Island

Cloud 9 Boardwalk surfers in General Luna, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte, Philippines Cloud 9 Boardwalk, Siargao Island

See more : Siargao travel tips

Matinloc Island in El Nido, Palawan, Philippines

You came to the country to see spectacular beaches and island views. El Nido in Palawan province will not disappoint. In terms of spectacular “over-the-water” sea views, El Nido is my favorite in the Philippines. Imagine hidden lagoons, uninhabited white sand beaches, and massive forest-covered limestone mountains rising out of pristine tropical waters. The “SEAnery” here rivals popular destinations in Asia like Phi Phi/Krabi Islands (Thailand) and Ha Long Bay (Vietnam).The experience of spending a whole day out on the islands is nothing short of incredible. The area of Bacuit Bay is spread over a large area, so spend at least two full days for the island hopping tours (Tour A & Tour C are the best).

Location  — Northern Palawan province, MIMAROPA Region (West Central Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Most travelers arrive in El Nido on a 1.5-hour flight from Manila to Puerto Princesa Airport (PPS), followed by a 5 to 6-hour shuttle ride to El Nido town proper. If you want to skip the long land journey, fly directly to El Nido from Manila (1 hour), Cebu or Boracay-Caticlan. This is the fastest but more expensive way.

El Nido Travel Essentials

El Nido Tour A – Lagoons and Beaches Island Hopping

El Nido Tour C – Hidden Beaches and Shrines Island Hopping

Puerto Princesa – El Nido Shuttle Transfers

Secret Lagoon Beach in Miniloc Island, El Nido, Palawan, Philippines Secret Lagoon Beach in El Nido, Palawan

Calitang Beach, at Nacpan-Calitang Twin Beaches, in El Nido, Palawan, Philippines Calitang Beach, El Nido

Overlooking Bacuit Bay Islands of El Nido from Taraw Peak, in Palawan, Philippines Overlooking El Nido from Taraw Peak

Umbrella Beach in Miniloc Island, El Nido, Palawan, Philippines Umbrella Beach in Miniloc Island, El Nido

See more : El Nido travel tips

Pro-tip:  To make your trip planning easier, I’ve added links to the pin locations on Google Maps. Use the ‘save’ feature on the app to see all your saved locations on one map, visualize your itinerary, and know the best areas to stay near the places you want to go.

Philippines Travel Essentials

Before we go with the rest of the list, here are travel essentials you might need for a hassle-free trip. Click below to see discounts & read traveler reviews.

Where to stay in The Philippines:

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Popular tours & discounts booked by other travelers:

Island Hopping in Boracay

Enchanted Kingdom Admission Ticket

Manila Ocean Park Attraction Pass

Cebu Ocean Park Ticket

Tours + discounts Flights Airport transfers WIFI Internet/Data SIM

Kayangan Lake in Coron, Palawan, Philippines. Photo by David Köhler .

In contrast to El Nido’s amazing “over water” views, go to Coron for spectacular underwater views. Here, you can see colorful coral gardens, pristine waters, lots of marine life, and even sunken WWII Japanese shipwrecks. Don’t get me wrong, Coron can hold its own when it comes to scenic views over the water as well. This paradise is home to hidden emerald/blue lagoons surrounded by limestone cliffs. There’s no shortage of incredibly beautiful fine white sand beaches in Coron either.

How to go —  Coron Airport is located on the north side of Busuanga Island. Travel time by plane is around 1 hour from Manila. For adventurous travelers who want to maximize their trip in Palawan, you can travel by ferry between Coron and El Nido (mainland Palawan). Travel time is around 4 hours by fastcraft (high-speed ferry).

Coron Travel Essentials

Coron Super Ultimate Day Tour

Coron-Busuanga Airport Shuttle – Shared and Private Transfers

Coron Ultimate Tour

See more : Coron travel tips

Marcos at Osmeña Peak in Dalaguete, Cebu

Cebu is the country’s #1 most visited tourist destination, and for good reason. It is unrivaled in offering the widest range of things to do and attractions. Cebu is like the “Jack of all trades” among tourist spots in the Philippines.You can enjoy scenic natural sites (waterfalls, beaches, mountain views etc.), have exciting wildlife encounters, join a colonial heritage tour, shop at some of the World’s largest malls, or indulge yourself in local food including the prized Cebu Lechon! You can do all of these easily while staying at a luxury resort in Mactan Island, centrally located hotel/airbnb in the city, or a peaceful beachfront resort in the countryside. Your choice!If that’s not enough, you can easily hop to nearby islands like Bohol, Negros (Dumaguete) or other major cities. Take full advantage of Cebu’s strategic location in Central Philippines and well-connected flight/ferry network.

Location  — Central Visayas (Central Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Cebu-Mactan International Airport in Mactan Island serves direct flights from all major cities in the Philippines as well as international flights from Asia and North America. Flight duration is 1h30m from Manila, 3h 40m from Singapore and 2h50m from Hong Kong. From the airport, the ride to Cebu City center usually takes 30 minutes to 1 hour (or more, depending on traffic conditions).

Cebu Travel Essentials

Cebu-Tagbilaran, Bohol OceanJet Ferry Ticket

Cebu Airport Private Transfers – for Cebu City, Mactan & more

Bohol Day Tour from Cebu

Shangri-la Mactan Resort in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, Philippines Shangri-la Mactan Resort, Cebu

The Heritage of Cebu Monument in Cebu City, Philippines The Heritage of Cebu Monument

Canyoneering near Kawasan Falls, Badian, Cebu, Philippines Kawasan-Badian Canyoneering in Cebu

Santiago Bay Beach in Camotes Islands, Cebu, Philippines Camotes Islands, Cebu, Philippines

Sirao Flower Garden in Cebu City, Philippines Sirao Flower Garden, Cebu City

See more : Cebu travel tips

Marcos at White Beach, in Boracay, Malay, Aklan, Philippines

Boracay is a vacationer’s paradise. Taking center stage is 4-kilometer White Beach, prized for its incredibly inviting blue waters, fine white sand, and perfect sunsets. This island is the place to go if you want to take it easy and you’re looking forward to enjoying a tropical resort experience. As you can expect, Boracay caters to a more upscale crowd, but don’t fret, there are many budget-friendly options available.Boracay is small but packs a lot of attractions. Here you can find excellent dining, a wide variety of places to stay, souvenir shopping, and lots of fun water activities, and some nightlife all in one sandy stretch.Boracay’s White Beach is a class of its own when it comes to how fine and white the sand is. From my extensive travels in the country, there’s only one lengthy beach that has sand whiter and finer than White Beach. You can find it in the group of islands featured next on this list.

Location  — Aklan province, Western Visayas region (Central Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Touchdown at either Boracay-Caticlan Airport (MPH) or Kalibo International Airport (KLO). From Caticlan, the ferry to Boracay only takes less than 20 minutes. Most travelers transit via Kalibo because the airport serves more airlines/flights/destinations and airfares are usually lower. The land trip from Kalibo to Caticlan tales around 1 hour.

Boracay Travel Essentials

Sunset Paraw Sailing in Boracay

Caticlan Airport-Boracay Hotel Shared Transfers – Shuttle+Ferry Ticket

Sunset at White Beach, in Boracay, Malay, Aklan, Philippines Sunset view from Boracay Island

White Beach in Boracay, Malay, Aklan, Philippines White Beach, Boracay

View from Mt. Luho facing White Beach, in Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan, Philippines Mt. Luho view

Kite surfing at Bulabog Beach, in Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan, Philippines Boracay kite surfing

Ati-atihan Festival warriors in Kalibo, Aklan, Philippines Kalibo Ati-atihan Festival in Aklan

See more : Boracay Island & Aklan travel tips

The Standouts

These places take more time to visit but are well worth the journey if you’re up for an adventure.

Onuk Island – Roughton Island in Balabac, Palawan, Philippines

If you’re looking for the best beaches & most vibrant waters in the Philippines, look nowhere else. Balabac is worth a spot at the VERY TOP of your bucketlist.Balabac is the southernmost group of islands in Palawan. It is so far south that Sabah, in East Malaysia is nearer to Balabac than Puerto Princesa, the provincial capital of Palawan.The main draw here are 31 gorgeous islands still vastly undiscovered by tourist crowds. These islands are surrounded by pristine, crystal clear waters and white sand beaches. Yes, the sandy shores of many beaches here are a blinding white to off-white, many even have a blushed pink hue! The best spots you shouldn’t miss in Balabac are (1) Onuk Island & its crystal blue waters sprawling as far as the eye can see; (2) Bugsuk Island, home to the most powdery, whitest sand beach in the Philippines; and (3) the pink sand beach at Camiaran Island.

Location  — Southern Palawan province, MIMAROPA Region (West Central Philippines)

How to go —  The most convenient jump-off point to the Balabac Islands is Buliluyan Port, located at the southernmost tip of mainland Palawan. From Puerto Princesa Airport (the nearest commercial airport), the land trip to Buliluyan Port takes around 5-6 hours. For a hassle-free trip, arrange your Balabac tour well ahead (before your trip) with a local tour operator. See the list and detailed travel tips at the  Balabac Travel Guide .

Punta Sebaring Beach in Bugsuk Island, Balabac, Palawan, Philippines Punta Sebaring Beach, Bugsuk Island, Balabac

Camiaran “Pink” Island, in Balabac, Palawan, Philippines Camiaran “Pink” Island, Balabac

Nasubata Reef – Pulau Bato in Balabac, Palawan, Philippines Nasubata Reef – Pulau Bato

Sicsican Island in Balabac, Palawan, Philippines Sicsican Island

Canabungan Island in Balabac, Palawan, Philippines Canabungan Island

Balabac is remote and not easy to reach, which is why I don’t readily recommend the place to first-timers. You must really want to visit this place. It takes time to visit and you’ll have to let go of touristic conveniences.

Batanes, Philippines. Photo by Rexy Quieta .

Previously, many readers have asked me why I did not include Batanes as one of the best places to go in the Philippines. The answer is simple: I haven’t been there yet. It’s still on my bucketlist! But due to popular demand, I am including Batanes now. So, comment below if you have a place in mind that you think should be included! I might have to add it to my bucketlist too.Batanes is the northernmost province of the Philippines. These remote islands are shaped by volcanic forces and strong typhoons. The natural landscape of Batanes is distinct from other parts of the Philippines. Here, you’ll find vibrant green rolling hills, grazing cows, steep seaside cliffs, sparkling clear blue waters, traditional stone houses, and iconic lighthouses.Travelers often describe its Batanes’ beauty as wild, overwhelming, and incredibly scenic. Looking at pictures and vlogs, I can see why it’s a popular choice among adventure seekers.

Location  — Cagayan Valley region (Northern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Touchdown at Basco Airport, located on Batan, the main island of Batanes. Travel time by plane is 2 hours from Manila or 1h40m from Clark. Airlines that fly to Batanes include Philippine Airlines and Skyjet. Flights to Batanes are a lot more expensive compared to other destinations in the Philippines. Expect regular roundtrip fares to cost upwards of P10,000.

Batanes Travel Essentials

Where to stay Check Fares

Batanes-Basco Airport Shuttle – BSO Private Transfers

3 Day North Batan, South Batan, and Sabtang Island Tour

2 Day North Batan and South Batan Tour

Pongas Falls in Sagada, Mountain Province, Philippines

The Philippines isn’t just all about postcard-perfect beaches. It has cool highland destinations too! If you want to be close to nature and the Philippines’ mountain culture, venture north of Manila and visit Sagada. You can find this small town high in the mist-covered Cordillera (mountain range) of Northern Luzon.Surrounded by spectacular mountain views, Sagada is most-known for the bizarre hanging coffins, a burial tradition that has survived for over 2,000 years. When in town, don’t miss the cave connection tour (Sumaging-Lumiang Cave), sunrise view from above a sea of clouds at Kiltepan Peak, the local coffee (best in PH) & hike to the many waterfalls in the area including Bomod-ok Falls and Pongas Falls.

Location  — Sagada, Mountain Province, Cordillera region, Luzon (Northern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  The bus trip to Sagada from Manila takes around 12 hours. Buses usually depart at 9pm (onwards) from Cubao, Quezon City. You can also catch a bus to Sagada from Baguio. Travel time from Baguio to Sagada is 5-6 hours by bus.

Sagada Travel Essentials

Sumaguing Cave, in Sagada, Mountain Province, Philippines Marcos at Sumaguing Cave, Sagada

Hanging coffins at Echo Valley, Sagada, Mountain Province, Philippines Sagada hanging coffins, Mountain Province

Kapay-aw Rice Terraces in Sagada, Mountain Province, Philippines Kapay-aw Rice Terraces, Sagada

Bomod-ok Falls and Aguinid Rice Terraces, in Sagada, Mountain Province, Philippines 041 Bomod-ok Falls and Aguinid Rice Terraces, in Sagada-150211-082531

See more : Sagada travel tips

Banaue Rice Terraces in Banaue, Ifugao, Philippines

Banaue is home to the famous Banaue Rice Terraces, another must-see attraction in the Cordillera region. Hand-carved by the Ifugao people some 2,000 years ago, these extraordinary rice paddies are terraced like staircases for giants and follows the contours of entire mountainsides. Banaue is also the gateway to the Ifugao Rice Terraces, included in UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites.Have a memorable local experience by spending the night at a homestay in one of the small villages like Batad or Banga-an. Get immersed in the culture of the Ifugao people, wake-up to a view of the rice terraces with a hot cup of local coffee, and go on the breathtaking hike to Tappiya Waterfalls.

Location  — Ifugao province, Cordillera Region. Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  The bus journey to Banaue from Manila takes around 8-9 hours. Bus departures from Manila are in the late evening hours (8pm to 10pm). So, expect to arrive early morning. You can also reach Banaue easily from other destinations in the Cordillera region. The land journey to Banaue takes around 3 hours from Sagada and 6 hours from Baguio

Banaue Travel Essentials

Tappiya Falls near Batad Rice Terraces in Banaue, Ifugao, Philippines Tappiya Falls near Batad Rice Terraces

Igorot farmers at Kiangan Rice Terraces & Open Air Museum, in Kiangan, Ifugao, Philippines Igorot farmers at Kiangan Rice Terraces & Open Air Museum

Batad Rice Terraces near Banaue in Ifugao, Philippines Batad Rice Terraces near Banaue, Ifugao

Bangaan Rice Terraces in Banaue, Ifugao, Philippines Bangaan Rice Terraces near Banaue

Banaue Rice Terraces viewpoint, in Banaue, Ifugao, Philippines Banaue Rice Terraces, Ifugao

See more : Banaue, Ifugao travel tips

Calle Crisologo in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, Philippines

Vigan is the best-preserved Spanish-colonial town in Asia. If you’re a lover of old cities, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit.You’ll feel like you’ve traveled back in time (to 16th-century Philippines) as you explore Vigan. This heritage city is filled with cobblestone paths, horse-drawn carriages, centuries-old churches, and buildings. Get the ultimate Vigan experience by booking your room at one of the old Spanish-colonial homes.

Location  — Ilocos Norte province, Ilocos region, Luzon (Northern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  The nearest airport to Vigan is Laoag Airport, which serves direct flights from Manila. This journey takes around 2 hours (1-hour flight duration PLUS 2-hour land trip). You can also reach Vigan by bus. The land trip takes around 8-9 hours from Manila.

Vigan Travel Essentials

Calle Crisologo in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, Philippines Calle Crisologo, Vigan

See more : Vigan travel tips

Marcos at Tinago Falls in Iligan City, Lanao del Norte, Philippines

Iligan the “City of Majestic Waterfalls” deserves a spot on your bucketlist if you’re a lover of waterfalls (like me). This city in Northern Mindanao is home to many of the  Philippines’ most beautiful waterfalls . My favorites in Iligan include (1) Tinago Falls with its incredibly enchanting blue-green pool surrounded by the rainforest, (2) Maria Cristina Falls (massive twin waterfall), and the remote (3) Limunsudan Falls (the highest two-tiered waterfall in the Philippines).

Location  — Lanao del Norte province, Northern Mindanao region (Southern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Touchdown at Cagayan de Oro-Laguindingan Airport (CGY), which serves direct flights from Manila, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Clark, and Dumaguete. Flight duration is 1h and 40m from Manila or 1h from Cebu. From Laguindingan Airport, the land trip to Iligan City takes around 1.5 hours.

Iligan Travel Essentials

Where to stay

Limunsudan Falls in Iligan City, Lanao del Norte, Philippines Limunsudan Falls, Iligan

Maria Cristina Falls in Iligan City, Lanao del Norte, Philippines Maria Cristina Falls, Iligan City

See more : Iligan travel tips

Popular & Easy To Visit

Sharing these major flight gateways and popular tourist destinations. All of these places have their own special set of bucketlist-worthy attractions. This just goes to show that you can find beautiful spots all over the Philippines and how incredibly difficult it is to select just a few, to make this list of best places to visit. The destinations mentioned below are not listed by rank.

Marcos at Fort Santiago, in Intramuros, Manila City, Metro Manila, Philippines

Manila offers many attractions for travelers. Historic Intramuros is a good place to start. This walled city is filled with Spanish-era architecture including the Manila Cathedral, Fort Santiago, and San Agustin Church (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Meanwhile, Makati and Bonifacio Global City (BGC) are the best places to go to experience the nightlife, hip food scene, and the modern side of the city. Beat the tropical heat & shop at Manila’s massive malls. Metro Manila is home to many of the World’s largest malls including the ever-expanding Mall of Asia. Looking for a place to go near the airport? Visit the entertainment districts such as Newport City, City of Dreams, Solaire Resort, and Okada Manila.

Location  — Metro Manila capital region, Luzon (Northern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) is the main international gateway and domestic flight hub of the Philippines. The Manila-NAIA Airport is located in the cities of Pasay and Paranaque (among the 16 cities that comprise the Metro Manila area). Manila does not have a very good public transport system. For safe and easy rides around the metro, use a ride-hailing app like Grab.

Manila Travel Essentials

Manila-Luzon Shuttle – Tagaytay, Baguio, Laguna, La Union & more

National Museum of Natural History in Manila City, Philippines National Museum of Natural History, Manila

Intramuros Walled City in Manila City, Metro Manila, Philippines Intramuros Walled City, Manila

San Sebastian Cathedral interiors, in Metro Manila, Philippines San Sebastian Cathedral

Dusk view of Makati’s skyline, from Top of the Citi by Chef jessie (rooftop bar), in Makati City, Metro Manila, Philippines Makati Skyline at Dusk

Bonifacio High Street in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, Metro Manila, Philippines Bonifacio High Street

See more : Manila travel tips

Chocolate Hills sunrise view in Carmen, Bohol, Philippines

Bohol is home to two of the Philippines’ most iconic attractions, often shown on tourism ads: The Chocolate Hills, and the bug-eyed Tarsier, one of the World’s smallest primates. This island in Central Philippines (near Cebu) offers so much more.In Panglao, you can stay at a nice hotel at one of the island’s many white-sand beach areas, go island hopping, enjoy diving, join an island hopping tour, and possibly have a dolphin encounter. If that’s not enough, you can enjoy a relaxing cruise along the pristine Loboc River, see the old Spanish-colonial heritage churches, Can-umantad waterfalls, Cadapdapan Rice Terraces, and remote Anda White Beach.If you plan to visit Cebu, then Bohol should be on your bucketlist too as you can easily see most of Bohol’s major tourist spots on a one-day tour from Cebu City.

How to go —  Touchdown at Bohol-Panglao International Airport (TAG), which serves direct flights from Manila, Clark, Davao and Cagayan de Oro. Travel time from Manila to Bohol is 1 hour by plane. You can also go by ferry from Cebu. Travel time from Cebu to Bohol is around 2 hours by fastcraft ferry.

Bohol Travel Essentials

Bohol Countryside Tour w/ Buffet Lunch

Bohol Private Car Charter

Cebu-Bohol Supercat Ferry Ticket (One Way or Round Trip)

Dumaluan Beach in Bolod, Panglao Island, Philippines Dumaluan Beach in Panglao, Bohol

Loboc River Cruise in Bohol, Philippines. Photo by Michelle Simtoco Loboc River Cruise, Bohol

Doljo Beach in Panglao Island, Bohol, Philippines Doljo Beach, Panglao Island

Can-Umantad Falls in Candijay, Bohol, Philippines Can-Umantad Falls, Bohol

Baclayon Church, Bohol

See more : Bohol travel tips

Puerto Princesa Underground River in Palawan, Philippines

Puerto Princesa is the capital and major flight gateway in Palawan. If you’re visiting El Nido, then Puerto Princesa, “The City in the Forest,” is worth a stopover. Start with a trip to Puerto Princesa Underground River, the 2nd longest navigable underground river in the world, listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and New7Wonders of Nature. Then, spend a day beach bumming and snorkeling on an island hopping tour around Honda Bay. Don’t leave without going on the city tour and feasting on fresh seafood.

Location  — Central Palawan province, MIMAROPA Region (West Central Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Puerto Princesa is 1.5 hours southwest of Manila by plane. Princesa International Airport serves direct flights from Manila, Cebu, Iloilo, Clark, and Davao. You can also go by ferry from Manila or Iloilo (on the RORO ferry-bus).

Puerto Princesa Travel Essentials

Puerto Princesa Underground River Day Tour w/ Buffet Lunch

Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour

Sabang Beach near Puerto Princesa Underground River, Palawan, Philippines Sabang Beach near Puerto Princesa Underground River

Starfish Island in Honda Bay, Puerto Princesa, Palawan, Philippines Starfish Island in Honda Bay, Puerto Princesa

The Baywalk in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, Philippines The Baywalk in Puerto Princesa

Kinabuch’s Seafood dinner, in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, Philipines Kinabuch’s, Puerto Princesa City

See more : Puerto Princesa travel tips

Journey to Heaven, at Garin Pilgrimage Resort in San Joaquin, Iloilo

This is my home, Iloilo! Located at the country’s geographical center, Iloilo is also known as the “Heart of the Philippines.” It is famous for its well-preserved heritage sites, distinct native cuisine, cheap seafood, and pristine natural sites.Bustling yet relaxed Iloilo City is one of the most livable cities in the country. A highly urbanized city that’s keen on preserving its cultural and natural heritage. Within an hour’s travel from the city center, you can find yourself along a peaceful beach in Guimaras Island, home to the World’s sweetest mangoes. Head to the islands of Gigantes, Sicogon, and Concepcion to see the stunning seascapes of Northern Iloilo. A drive to the south takes you to centuries-old Spanish-colonial churches including the Miagao Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From Iloilo, you can also go on a land trip to other provinces in Panay Island — Antique, Capiz (Roxas City), and Aklan (Boracay).

Location  — Western Visayas region (Central Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Touchdown at Iloilo Airport, which serves direct flights from/to major airports in the Philippines, as well as Hong Kong and Singapore. Travel time to Iloilo by plane is 1h15m from Manila and 50m from Cebu. The airport also serves direct flights from/to Davao, Clark, Puerto Princesa, Cagayan de Oro and General Santos.

Iloilo Travel Essentials

Bacolod-Iloilo OceanJet Ferry Ticket

Iloilo Airport-Iloilo City Hotel Shuttle – ILO Private and Shared Transfers

Gigantes Islands Day Tour from Iloilo City

Calle Real in Iloilo City, Philippines Calle Real in Iloilo City

Tangke Lagoon in Gigantes Sur Island, Carles, Iloilo, Philippines Tangke Lagoon, Gigantes, Iloilo

Tatlong Pulo Beach in Jordan, Guimaras, Philippines Tatlong Pulo, Guimaras

Miagao Church in Miagao, Iloilo, Philippines Miagao Church, Iloilo

Balvan View in Tubungan, Iloilo, Philippines Balvan View, Tubungan, Iloilo

See more : Iloilo & Guimaras travel tips

Puning Hot Springs in Sapang Bato, Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines

Located within a 2-3 hour drive north of Manila, Clark Airport is a major flight hub and alternative international gateway to the Philippines. Clark is a rapidly developing tourist destination and economic zone. It’s home to Aqua Planet Waterpark, PH’s largest waterpark, and other themed attractions such as Dinosaur Island. From Clark, you can enjoy a heritage tour of nearby Angeles City and sample the famous food of Pampanga, the Culinary Capital of the Philippines.Clark is also a popular jump-off point to explore the Central Luzon provinces of Zambales, Tarlac, Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, and Aurora. The best things to do in this region include the (1) offroad adventure to Puning Hot Springs, (2) Mount Pinatubo summit crater trek, (3) Las Casas Filipinas De Acuzar heritage resort, (4) Zambales’ scenic beaches, (5) Subic Bay, and the (6) surfing town of Baler.

Location  — Clark Freeport, Pampanga region, Luzon (Northern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Clark Airport serves both domestic and international flights. Because of its location near Manila, it often serves as an alternative to congested Manila-NAIA Airport. Travel time from Manila to Clark is around 2-3 hours. Clark Airport is located within Clark Freeport Zone, which occupies part of Angeles City, Pampanga. The drive between Clark Airport & Angeles City center takes around 20 minutes.

Clark Travel Essentials

Dinosaurs Island Clark Admission Ticket

Zoocobia Admission Ticket in Clark

Clark Safari and Adventure Park Ticket

Pampanga Sisig, at Mila’s Tokwa’t Baboy in Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines Pampanga Sisig, at Mila’s Tokwa’t Baboy

Holy Rosary Parish Church in Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines Holy Rosary Parish Church, Angeles City, Pampanga

Aqua Planet in Clark, Pampanga, Philippines Aqua Planet, Clark

Marcos at Mount Pinatubo crater lake in Central Luzon, Philippines Mount Pinatubo crater lake, Philippines

See more : Clark & Pampanga travel tips

Isla Reta beachfront in Talucud Island, Samal, Davao del Norte, Philippines

Considering a trip to Southern Philippines? Start with Davao City, the largest urban center in Mindanao. Located at the foot of Mount Apo, the PH’s tallest mountain, this sprawling metropolis is where you can meet the great Philippine Eagle, get a taste of the infamous Durian fruit, and enjoy day trips to refreshing natural sites like Eden Nature Park and Samal Island. Of course, it is also the gateway to beautiful spots in Davao region and Mindanao.Samal Island is easily reached by ferry from Davao City. Enjoy a luxury stay at Pearl Farm Beach Resort, famous for its waterfront stilt cottages, or wander to the peaceful beaches of Talikud Island.

Location  — Davao region, Mindanao (Southern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Davao Airport is the busiest airport in Mindanao. Travel time by plane from Manila to Davao is 2 hours. From Davao Airport, it typically takes 30 minutes to get to Davao City center.

Davao Travel Essentials

Davao (DVO) Airport to Hotel/City Private Transfer

Davao 24hr COVID-19 RT-PCR and Rapid Antigen Testing

Davao COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Testing

Philippine Eagle Center, Davao City, Philippines Philippine Eagle Center, Davao

Eden Nature Park city view, in Davao City, Philippines Davao City view from Eden Nature Park

Jack’s Ridge in Davao City, Philippines Jack’s Ridge, Davao City

Monfort Bat Colony in Samal Island, Davao del Norte, Philippines Monfort Bat Colony, Samal Island

See more : Davao travel tips

Gardens of Malasag Eco-Tourism Village in Cagayan de Oro, Misamis Oriental, Philippines

Cagayan de Oro, the largest city in Northern Mindanao, is dubbed as the “Adventure Capital of the Philippines”. This city is famous for its white water river rafting, river tubing, paragliding, nature parks. Cagayan de Oro is also a convenient hub for tourists visiting the majestic waterfalls of Iligan, scenic sites of Camiguin Island, and cool attractions of Bukidnon province.

Location  — Northern Mindanao region (Southern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Touchdown at Cagayan de Oro-Laguindingan Airport (CGY), which serves direct flights from Manila, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Clark, and Dumaguete. Flight duration is 1h and 40m from Manila or 1h from Cebu. From Laguindingan Airport, the land trip to Cagayan de Oro City takes around 1 hour.

Cagayan de Oro Travel Essentials

Seven Seas Waterpark Ticket in Cagayan de Oro

Dahilayan Adventure Park Admission Ticket

Philippines Unlimited Data eSIM (QR Email Delivery)

High Ridge in Cagayan de Oro, Misamis Oriental, Philippines High Ridge, Cagayan de Oro

Dahilayan Adventure Park in Bukidnon, Philippines Dahilayan Adventure Park, Bukidnon

White Island in Camiguin, Philippines White Island, Camiguin

See more : Cagayan de Oro & beyond travel tips

Swimming with sea turtles at Apo Island, in Dauin, Oriental Negros, Philippines

Extremely chill Dumaguete is the jump-off point to Apo Island. If swimming with sea turtles is on your bucketlist, one of the best places to go is Apo Island, a protected marine sanctuary with sprawling coral gardens. From Dumaguete, you can also visit Siquijor Island and the many waterfalls, lakes & mountain resorts of Negros Oriental province.

Location  — Negros Oriental province, Central Visayas region (Central Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Dumaguete Airport is about an hour south of Manila by plane. You can also fly directly from Cebu. The flight only takes 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can get to Dumaguete by bus+ferry from Cebu. The bus+ferry journey takes around 6 hours.

Dumaguete Travel Essentials

Manjuyod Sandbar and Twin Lakes Tour

Siquijor Cambugahay Falls and Heritage Day Trip

Twin Lakes Natural Park with Dumaguete City Tour

Siliman University in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental, Philippines Siliman University, Dumaguete City

Casaroro Falls in Valencia, Oriental Negros Casaroro Falls, Negros Oriental

Dumaguete Boulevard at night, in Dumaguete City, Oriental Negros, Philippines Dumaguete Boulevard at night

See more : Dumaguete & Negros Oriental travel tips

Daraga Church & Mayon Volcano view from Daraga, near Legazpi City, Albay, Philippines

Legazpi is perhaps the most photogenic city in the Philippines. Here, the skyline view is dominated by Mayon Volcano, recognized as the World’s “perfect” cone-shaped volcano.Legazpi serves as the gateway to Bicol, a region famous for the whale shark watching in Donsol, Sorsogon, gorgeous islands of Caramoan (Camarines Sur), and Calaguas (Camarines Norte), Misibis Bay Resort, and of course, delicious Bicolano dishes (Bicol Express!).

Location  — Albay province, Bicol region, Luzon Island (Northern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  The fastest way to get to Legazpi is by air. Flight duration to Legazpi Airport is 1 hour from Manila or Cebu. Alternatively, you can also reach Legazpi by bus from Manila. The land trip takes around 9 to 12 hours.

Legazpi Travel Essentials

Cagsawa Ruins & Mayon Volcano in Daraga, near Legazpi City, Albay, Philippines Cagsawa Ruins, Daraga

Mayon Volcano view near Cagsawa ruins in Daraga, near Legazpi City, Albay, Philippines Mayon Volcano view near Cagsawa ruins, Albay

See more : Legazpi, Bicol & Mayon Volcano travel tips

San Juanico Bridge in Leyte-Samar, Philippines

Tacloban City, the regional capital of Eastern Visayas, is home to the San Juanico Bridge, the longest bridge in the Philippines and as the site of U.S. General Douglas MacArthur’s landing, a monumental event during WWII.Eastern Visayas is a region blessed with many of the Philippines’ most awe-inspiring natural sights including Kalanggaman Island’s insanely beautiful sandbar, the incredible rock formations of Biri Island, majestic waterfalls of Samar and alluring Sambawan Island in Biliran province.

Location  — Leyte province, Eastern Visayas region (Central Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Touchdown at Tacloban-Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport, which serves direct flights from/to Manila, Cebu, and Clark. Travel time from Manila to Tacloban is 1.5 hours by flight. From Tacloban Airport, the ride to the downtown area takes 15 minutes only.

Tacloban Travel Essentials

Philippines 4G Data eSIM (QR Email Delivery)

Asia 4G LTE WIFI Hotspot (Manila Airport Pick Up)

MacArthur Park in Tacloban City, Leyte, Philippines MacArthur Park

Sohoton Caves National Park in Basey, Samar, Philippines Sohoton Caves National Park

Kalanggaman Island in Palompon, Leyte, Philippines Kalanggaman Island

Tinago Falls in Caibiran, Biliran, Philippines Tinago Falls, Biliran

Sambawan Island in Maripipi, Biliran, Philippines Sambawan Island

See more : Tacloban, Leyte travel tips

Wright Park in Baguio City, Benguet, Philippines

Visit the Philippines’ summer capital. Baguio City offers a cool climate, urban comforts, pine-filled parks and an exciting food scene. There are a lot of fun day trips beyond the city as well such as the La Trinidad strawberry fields and flower farms in Benguet.

Location  — Benguet province, Cordillera region, Luzon Island (Northern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Land travel to Baguio is approximately 5-6 hours from Manila, 6 hours from Banaue, and 5-6 hours from Sagada.

Baguio Travel Essentials

La Trinidad strawberry fields in Baguio City, Benguet, Philippines La Trinidad strawberry fields near Baguio

Flower farms in Atok, Benguet, Philippines Atok flower farms, Benguet

Camp John Hay Golf Course in Baguio City, Benguet, Philippines Camp John Hay Golf Course, Baguio

Burnham Park Lake in Baguio City, Benguet, Philippines Burnham Park Lake, Baguio City

Bell Church in Baguio City, Benguet, Philippines Bell Church, Baguio City

See more : Baguio & Benguet travel tips

Subic Bay beachfront, near Olongapo City, Zambales

Subic Bay is a popular destination for themed attractions and natural sites. Subic’s top tourist spots include the Pamulaklakin Nature Park, Boardwalk Park, Zoobic Safari, Ocean Adventure, Inflatable Island & duty-Free shopping malls.

Location  — Zambales province, Central Luzon region (Northern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  The land trip to Subic takes around 2-4 hours from Manila or 1.5 hours from Clark. Aside from buses/shuttle that go directly to Subic, you can also get on buses bound for Olongapo (Zamables). Subic Bay Freeport Zone is a short 10-minute ride away from the bus terminal in Olongapo.

Subic Bay Travel Essentials

Zoobic Safari Admission Ticket in Subic

Ocean Adventure Admission Ticket in Subic Bay

Camayan Beach Resort Day Pass

See more : Subic Bay travel tips

Taal Volcano view from Tagaytay Twin Lakes in Batangas-Cavite, Philippines

Tagaytay is a popular go-weekend vacation spot near Manila? Go on a 2-3 hour drive to Tagaytay, enjoy the cool mountain breeze, and see the iconic view of the highly active Taal Volcano.Taal Volcano is famous for Vulcan Point, the world’s largest island within a lake (Crater Lake) that is situated on an island (Volcano Island/Taal Island) located in a lake (Lake Taal) within an island (Luzon) in the Pacific Ocean.

Location  — Cavite-Batangas provinces, Southern Luzon (Northern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  You can find Tagataytay-bound buses at Cubao, Buendia or Pasay in Metro Manila. Travel time is around 2 to 3 hours depending on the pace of traffic. Alternatively, you can hop on a shuttle van from EGI Mall near the LRT Gil Puyat Station.

Tagaytay Travel Essentials

Sky Ranch Tagaytay Ride-All-You-Can Day Pass

Paradizoo Admission Ticket in Tagaytay

Tagaytay Day Tour from Manila

See More of the Philippines

Lily Flower Blooms in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato, Philippines

One of my favorite highland destinations in the Philippines is Lake Sebu, the homeland of the T’boli people. This peaceful town in Mindanao offers a cool mountain climate, beautiful waterfalls, and scenic lake views. When in Lake Sebu, do not miss the 7 Falls Zipline. It’s one of the tallest in Asia and offers a breathtaking view of Lake Sebu’s seven waterfalls. Enjoy an early morning canoe ride to see the fields of blooming lotus greet the sunrise.

Location  — South Cotabato province,Soccsksargen region, Mindanao Island (Southern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  General Santos Airport is around two hours by plane from Manila or around 1 hour from Cebu or Iloilo. Land travel from General Santos to Lake Sebu takes 2 to 3 hours. Alternatively, can book a flight to Davao Airport go on a 2 to 3-hour land trip to General Santos.

Lake Sebu Travel Essentials

Hikong Bente (2nd Falls) in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato, Philippines Hikong Bente (2nd Falls), Lake Sebu

Punta Isla Lake Resort in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato, Philippines Punta Isla Lake Resort, Lake Sebu

See more : Lake Sebu travel tips

Paoay Church (San Agustin Church) in Paoay, Ilocos Norte, Philippines

Ilocos Norte and its capital city, Laoag, is one of the Philippines’ top heritage destinations. See the Paoay Church, included in UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites, and many other exquisite Spanish-colonial churches. Go farther north to find the iconic windmills, beautiful beaches, surfing, and coastal landscapes in Pagudpud and Burgos.

Location  — Ilocos Norte province, Luzon Island (Northern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Traveling by air is the fastest and most convenient way to Ilocos Norte. Laoag Airport is an hour north of Manila by plane. You can also reach Laoag by land from different areas in Luzon. The land trip to Laoag is around 9 hours from Manila.

Laoag Travel Essentials

Kapurpurawan White Rock in Burgos, Ilocos Norte, Philippines Kapurpurawan White Rock

Cape Bojeador Lighthouse in Burgos, Ilocos Norte, Philippines Cape Bojeador Lighthouse in Burgos, Ilocos Norte

Bangui Windmills in Bangui, Ilocos Norte, Philippines Bangui Windmills

See more : Laoag & Ilocos Norte travel tips

Salagdoong Beach in Siquijor, Philippines

Hop on a ferry from Dumaguete & wander around the mystical island of Siquijor. This island province is famous for its stunning beach coves, waterfalls, and as a home of mountain-dwelling mangkukulam (healers/Filipino witches).

Location  — Central Visayas region (Central Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Touchdown at Dumaguete-Sibulan Airport, which serves direct flights from Manila and Cebu. From Dumaguete Pier, ride one of the frequent ferries to Siquijor. Travel time by fastcraft (high-speed ferry) is 50 minutes. You can also reach Siquijor on a direct ferry from Cebu or Bohol.

Siquijor Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts

Cambugahay Falls in Siquijor, Philippines Cambugahay Falls, Siquijor

Lazi Church in Siquijor, Philippines Lazi Church, Siquijor

See more : Siquijor travel tips

Bato Ni Ning Ning in San Vicente, Palawan, Philippines

Port Barton is a quiet beachside village in the town of San Vicente. It is popular among backpackers and travelers who want to experience a relaxed rural atmosphere. Here, you can go about and explore many pristine offshore islands and venture to Long Beach in San Vicente Town Proper, reputedly the longest white sand beach in the Philippines. San Vicente/Port Barton is located between Puerto Princesa and El Nido, in mainland Palawan.

Location  — San Vicente, Northern Palawan province, Palawan province, MIMAROPA region (West Central Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  The fastest way is by flying directly to the new San Vicente Airport, which serves direct flights from Clark. From San Vicente Airport / Poblacion, you can charter a boat to get to Port Barton. Travel time by boat takes around 1 hour. You can also go by land from other spots in Palawan Island. Travel time to San Vincente takes around 5-6 hours from Puerto Princesa, 2.5-3 hours from El Nido or 1-1.5 hours from Roxas Bus Terminal.

San Vicente Travel Essentials

Port Barton Island Hopping from San Vicente (Join-In Tour)

Port Barton Beach at dusk, in San Vicente, Palawan, Philippines Port Barton Beach, San Vicente, Palawan

Maxima Island in San Vicente, Palawan, Philippines Maxima Island, San Vicente, Palawan

San Vicente Long Beach in San Vicente, Palawan, Philippines San Vicente Long Beach, San Vicente, Palawan

Marcos at Matukad Island in Caramoan, Camarines Sur, Bicol, Philippines

Caramoan rose to fame when the islands became the location of TV reality show “Survivor.” It was featured multiple times not only by Survivor US, but also various international editions of the franchise. After you’ve seen Caramoan, it’s not hard to see why. The islands are blessed with towering limestone cliffs that serve as the perfect backdrop of hidden lagoons and crowdless white sand beaches.

Location  — Camarines Sur province, Bicol region, Luzon Island (Northern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Sabang Port in San Jose, Camarines Sur province is the jump-off point to Caramoan. Travel time to Sabang Port by car is 1 hour from Naga City (Naga-Pili Airport) or 3 hours from Legazpi City (Legazpi-Bicol Airport). From Sabang Port, ride a local ferry to Guijalo Port in Caramoan. Travel time is around 1 hour and 45 minutes. From Guijalo, the land trip to Caramoan town proper takes around 30 minutes. From Caramoan town proper, the islands are accessible on whole day island hopping tours.

Caramoan Travel Essentials

Caramoan Islands view from Matudak Island in Camarines Sur, Philippines Caramoan Islands, Camarines Sur

Lahos Island in Caramoan, Camarines Sur, Philippines Lahos Island, Camarines Sur

Tayak Beach in Caramoan, Camarines Sur, Philippines Tayak Beach, Camarines Sur

Caramoan Church (St. Micheal de Archangel Parish Church) in Caramoan, Camarines Sur, Philippines Caramoan Church, Camarines Sur

Mahabang Buhang Beach in Calaguas Island, Vinzons, Camarines Norte, Philippines

Mahabang Buhangin Beach in Calaguas Island is perhaps the only beach in Northern Philippines that can rival the likes of Boracay and the best beaches in Palawan when it comes to powdery fine white sand. Despite its remote location in Camarines Norte, it has risen as one of the top places to visit among beach campers and adventure-seeking tourists. The beachfront is shy of one kilometer in length and has a sprawling view of unbelievably turquoise blue and crystal clear waters.

Location  — Vinzons, Camarines Norte province, Bicol region, Luzon Island (Northern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  The main jump-off points to Calaguas Island is are the towns of Paracale and Vinzons in Camarines Norte province. From Manila, the land journey to Paracale/Vinzons takes around 8-9 hours. Paracale is the nearer gateway to Calaguas Island. Travel time by ferry from Paracale to Calaguas is around 2 hours. The nearest airport with commercial flights is Naga-Pili Airport (WNP), which is a 2-hour drive away from Paracale/Vinzons.

Marcos at Magasang Rock Formation in Biri, Samar, Philippines

Biri is one of my all-time favorite “off the beaten path” adventures in the Philippines. Facing the Pacific Ocean, this remote island is home to awe-inspiring rock formations carved over time by nature. Scramble up to one of the peaks for an awe-inspiring view of raging sea waves crashing over the rugged landscape.

Location  — Northern Samar province, Eastern Visayas region (Central Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  The nearest airport to Biri is Catarman Airport, which serves direct flights from Clark. From Catarman Airport, you’ll first need to go on a 1-hour land trip to Lavezares Port, the main jump-off point to Biri Islands. From Lavezares Port, hop on a ferry to Biri. The sea crossing takes around 45 minutes. Alternatively, it’s possible to reach Biri from Calbayog Airport or Tacloban Airport. Travel time by land from Tacloban to Lavezares is 6 hours.

Bel-at Rock Formation sunset view, in Biri, Samar, Philippines Bel-at Rock Formations, Biri

Marcos at Magasang Rock Formation in Biri, Samar, Philippines Magasang Rock Formation, Biri

Enchanted River in Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur, Philippines

Endless stretches of white-sand beaches, not your only image of a perfect island getaway? Surigao del Sur province has many extraordinary sights for the off-beat traveler. See the majestic Tinuy-an Falls and bizarre Hinatuan Enchanted River, a magically clear, deep blue river that seems to spring from nowhere.

Location  — Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur province, Caraga region, Mindanao (Southern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  The Enchanted River is located in the coastal town of Hinatuan in Surigao del Sur province. The nearest airports are Butuan Airport and Davao Airport. Travel time by bus to Hinatuan is around 4 hours from Butuan and 5 hours from Davao. From Hinatuan town proper, the trip to the Enchanted River takes around 20 minutes.

Where to Stay in Philippines

Click below & search recommended Philippines hotels/hostels/home rentals within your budget. Remember to set your  min/max price , travel dates, and  sort by review ratings . I often book online with these trusted booking sites below for rock-bottom prices & convenient bookings.

Agoda Booking.com

Book sooner rather than later if you already have your dates set. Cheaper-priced rooms and hotels with high reviews tend to get fully booked faster, especially during busy days like weekends, holidays & peak tourist seasons.

Don’t Stop Here

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• Gigantes Islands
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August 20, 2015 at 7:12 pm

Thank you for Iligan :) will share!

August 20, 2015 at 10:03 pm

Waterfalls are my weakness. Plus points for the likes of Tinago, where you can enjoy the swimming in the natural pool, and not just appreciate them from a distance. Thanks for dropping by Rain!

August 21, 2015 at 7:20 am

Thank You for featuring Iloilo! The food. The ambiance. It’s a sanctuary! ?

August 21, 2015 at 8:24 pm

My pleasure Jae. More people should discover and explore Iloilo.

August 21, 2015 at 12:01 pm

Should include Batanes in your bucketlist.. ?

August 21, 2015 at 8:22 pm

It already is! I would have included Batanes on this list if I had gone there already. For the next update, I think I’ll be needing help from my travel buddies to convince people why Batanes is worth a go.

August 22, 2015 at 1:02 pm

I definitely agree about Batanes! This may help do some convincing – http://theroadtoneverland.com/the-batanes-great-spaces-list/ :)

February 4, 2016 at 5:27 pm

I’ve been dreaming of going to Batanes too =)

January 17, 2019 at 6:00 pm

I agree. Batanes should be included. Its the most serene and lovely place to go that if you want a peaceful day away from all office tension this is the right place. Not much for food though but the place and people – I’m all thumbs up! Highly recommended!

August 21, 2015 at 1:48 pm

Thanks for featuring Surigao ? You have to visit Turtle Island too in Barobo, Surigao del Sur, with its white beaches, clear sea water, cave, smaller islets around it and its beautiful scenery at the top of it. Brittania beach is so cool too .

August 21, 2015 at 8:21 pm

I love Surigao. Can’t get enough of surfing in Siargao and the lagoons of Sohoton. Thanks for the suggestions. I really want to visit more places in the eastern coast of mainland Surigao del Norte and Surigao del Sur.

August 21, 2015 at 5:17 pm

Boracay Island? i know its not that much of a paradise anymore but i think it does deserve to be on this list

August 21, 2015 at 8:19 pm

I will be including Boracay on the next update. Boracay is a rare beauty not only in the PH, but across the globe.

August 21, 2015 at 9:52 pm

Thanks much for including my hometown SAGADA… Have you been to Bumod-ok Falls? ??? Good luck and God bless!

August 21, 2015 at 10:49 pm

Yes, Bumod-ok Falls and Pongas Falls. I <3 Sagada. Thanks Gamay!

August 22, 2015 at 12:45 am

Hello, Best post I have read from browsing FB today! Have gone visited half, obviously there are still more! Keep on traveling and sharing! It really is more fun in the Phils! :) -kathy

August 22, 2015 at 1:49 am

Love your article. Grew up in Baguio City. Was hoping to see Baguio as one of the list. I guess the City had lost its charm.

August 22, 2015 at 4:53 am

You haven’t been to Antique(san jose, antique. In there we have beaches such as malalison beach. We call the virgin island. Malumpati beach, sira an spring in anini-y antique and many more.

March 1, 2017 at 11:49 am

Nice place Antique.. Mauli gid ako sa Antique Ma’am

August 22, 2015 at 10:56 am

August 22, 2015 at 12:33 pm

Nice compilation and awesome pictures! ;)

August 22, 2015 at 6:00 pm

I had an opportunity to visit the Philippines and I only had a week to stay. I chose Boracay. I had the most wonderful and transformative experience there. Not only was it beyond beautiful with countless experiences to be had, the people were some of the friendliest I’ve experienced in my world travels. I have befriended some and keep contact even now. I’d like to thank Marcos for this glimpse at some of what the country has to offer and beautiful photos. I personally now consider the Philippines to be a home away from home and thank the people there for embracing me. Everything is better in the Philippines. ^_^

August 22, 2015 at 8:55 pm

This is a beautifully presented blog. I have traveled the Philippines quite extensively back in the day but obviously, there’s a whole lot more to see, pick up souvenirs and create memories.

August 28, 2015 at 7:30 pm

thank you for bicol:) i think you should also visit calaguas islands in camarines norte its so beautiful.

August 28, 2015 at 9:39 pm

My pleasure Michelle. I’ve been to Calaguas and it’s way up my list of the Philippines’ most beautiful beaches :)

September 3, 2015 at 12:19 pm

I have been to CDO a lot but didn’t make time for Ma. Cristina falls and Tinago falls. Regret! Should make time next time :)

September 12, 2015 at 10:11 am

Good Job, Marcos… nice one. i love it. Thanks…

September 12, 2015 at 5:50 pm

How about syquijor marcos?

September 14, 2015 at 5:01 am

5 down 6 more to go! Gigantes sur Island is sexy!!! Im gonna share this to all of my friends around the world, it’s more fun in the Philippines indeed!! Thanks for the great post sir!

October 17, 2015 at 5:18 pm

So fascinated with the places you’ve pinned on your blog. Visited four places out of eleven.

Please visit Cagayan Valley,too.

We have plenty of waterfalls, lagoon and jaw-dropping cave esp the Bluewater Cave.

November 21, 2015 at 10:05 am

Hey Marcos,

Greetings from the USA. I am a solo traveler going back into the Philippines February 2k16 for a couple of months. I will be visiting: Cebu, Camotes, Bantanyan, Apo, Palawan and then I will head into Thailand (4 my 4th time there).

Do you have any information on the conditions in Camotes and Bantanyan? I have been scouring the blogs but cannot find out current conditions of these islands. Have they recuperated from the typhoons?

Happy trails, Gregg

November 21, 2015 at 11:40 am

I actually visited Bantayan in Cebu earlier this year. The island is a good place as any to visit. The resorts have recovered from any (recent) typhoons. I haven’t gone to Camotes yet, but I’d go out on a limb and say that the resorts there are operating normally, too.

November 23, 2015 at 1:17 pm

What was the Overall Cost of all trips? Or separately cost of each destination? I just want to see what an estimate of the cost would be for all 11. Thank you!

November 30, 2015 at 7:24 am

If you are near the Romblon Province… you are welcome on Sibuyan Island…the Galapagos of Asia Enjoy 100% pure nature…

February 16, 2016 at 3:53 am

Batanes should be on this list! Much more so than the other places in this list! It’s so weird that it was not included. I had to re-read the list to make sure I just didn’t miss it.

February 16, 2016 at 11:49 am

Pangasinan is also an easy to go for first timers. We have lots of beaches there and tourist spots including Hundred Islands. ?

February 25, 2016 at 2:23 am

Very nice to see Dumaguete in the list :-) Kind Regards

PS: I like your picture plug-in for the small images. would you mid sharing which one you use?

February 25, 2016 at 3:41 pm

Thanks Rhoody ^_^

It’s a premium plug-in called is “Justified Image Grid.’

March 10, 2016 at 6:59 am

Awesome and really helpful article you wrote. Came across your article while searching for Gigantes island. You basically gave me so many ideas on where to take my family when we get there in the next few months! P.S. You should check out Sipalay, Negros Occidental out too and try and head over to Danugan Island Sanctuary – http://www.danjuganisland.ph/ – yes it’s not waterfalls but on the way to Sipalay, you can make a stop over at Mag-aso Falls somewhere in Kabankalan City

Have fun travelling! Maria

April 19, 2016 at 2:44 pm

Thanks for sharing this ideas, last yr we visited Calaguas..3 days are not enough to explore all the breathtaking scenery from that place. love it and its really a good place to hideaway and relax. thank u my khush also

April 28, 2016 at 4:55 am

Lovely places.. thanks for listing them. i’m going to visit the Philippines by the end of this year with my better half. i think this is perfect guide.

May 1, 2016 at 4:02 am

Please visit Aliwagwag Falls, Cateel, Davao Oriental.

May 1, 2016 at 8:49 am

I’ve already been to Aliwagwag! It was very beautiful. I’ve included it on my list of must-visit waterfalls in the Philippines .

May 2, 2016 at 10:59 pm

Can you suggest a 4 days tour in bangkok thailand beside visiting the temples,floating market.thanks

May 4, 2016 at 12:54 pm

Hey Jessica :) You can find my Thailand blogs, guides, and travel tips on this link: https://www.detourista.com/x/search/network/?q=thailand

May 27, 2016 at 11:20 am

Thanks for spending your time traveling around our country and giving people ideas what we can offer here it will helps our tourism industry and most of all thanks for featuring my home city Iloilo.

June 26, 2016 at 7:54 pm

Hello there,

How long did you spend on each island and in the Phillipines in total?

June 27, 2016 at 10:52 am

I live in the Philippines and I visited these places on different trips. Visiting the highlights on each stop on the list should take 3-5 days. Many of these places are located in the same (big) islands like Luzon and Mindanao :)

August 16, 2016 at 10:02 pm

Been to awesome Palawan… next is Bicol… Good article man…

August 17, 2016 at 6:47 am

Thanks Armando! Bicol is beautiful, make sure to visit Calaguas or Caramoan Islands if you want to visit beaches. Of course, don’t miss the view of Mayon Volcano and enjoy the delicious food in Bicol.

September 7, 2016 at 2:43 pm

Great tips. Traveling in June 2017 with 4 adult kids. A lot of the activities esp in Palawan and Cebu are for divers. We aren’t divers but my adult kids are active and me not so much due to aches and pains. Will we find a happy medium in going to Coron, El Nido, Bohol? We enjoy good food and wouldn’t mind some time for pampering.

September 24, 2016 at 2:50 am

Cool Theresa! You can enjoy a lot in those places even if you are not divers. In Coron, for example, you can already see the rich marine life just on a snorkeling/island hopping tour. There are also a lot of amazing places to see & experience above water.

September 10, 2016 at 9:43 am

Hi there i am in cebu now. What would be the best circuit to go for flow here to see some of these cool place ? I wanna surf to buy at present no swell so thought if start a citcuit for a couple of weeks then hit the surf island Should i start with palawan? Or would there be an easy flow direction from cebu? Cheers Prem

September 24, 2016 at 2:48 am

Hello Prim! If you want the best surfing, go to Siargao. There’s a direct Cebu-Siargao flight by Cebu Pacific. To go to Palawan, you need to go back to Cebu by plane & take another flight to Puerto Princesa. If it were me, I would visit Siargao first & then do a more chill trip in Palawan.

November 21, 2016 at 11:06 pm

Thanks for sharing these places! Palawan looks beautiful. And Illocos looks very interesting! Ive written them down for when i go to the Philippines x

November 29, 2016 at 2:32 pm

Thanks for the comment Stephanie. Have fun on your future trips in PH!

January 7, 2017 at 1:52 pm

I’m glad South Cotabato and Northern Mindanao are featured in your list. As someone who’s living here in Mindanao, we’re proud of our tourist spots and beautiful natural resources.

January 8, 2017 at 6:43 am

Thanks for the comment Ana. I love visiting these places :) I had gone to more places in South Cotabato and North Mindanao recently. There are a lot more places to visit in the area :D

May 20, 2017 at 8:25 am

After our tour in iloilo city and Boracay , other towns in Panay island would be another bests. See a real MUMMY in Casanayan for the first time, swim in Dayhagan beach, see the biggest bell in Asia, be amazed of the tallest Marian image in Asia found in Pilar, the very high statue of sacred heart and seafood in Roxas city, the Kawa bath in Antique, the caves and super big acacia trees and waterfalls in Pilar, Sicogon island and Gigantes island . all of these are in Panay island ,3 hour bus ride from iloilo city..

May 29, 2017 at 11:31 am

What about Borocay? How does it compare to the places listed above?

May 29, 2017 at 10:59 pm

Boracay is beautiful & one of the top spots in the Philippines. It’s one of the best places to visit for vacationers. You might want to check out this list of the best beaches in the Philippines to compare with other island destinations in the country.

June 8, 2017 at 2:11 am

Why didn’t you include Batanes? Its so beautiful to miss it?

June 8, 2017 at 2:52 am

Check out this list! https://www.detourista.com/guide/philippines-best-beaches/

June 15, 2017 at 8:49 pm

Love Philippines!!

June 17, 2017 at 3:30 pm

I like this side. I want to visit .

June 27, 2017 at 8:39 pm

awesome blog! Just wanna ask what camera and lenses you used on those lovely photos.

June 27, 2017 at 11:09 pm

Glad you like my photo Sean :)

They were taken on different trips over the last decade or so, haha. I’ve used different cameras (& lenses) but mainly these: Nikon D5000 Panasonic Lumix DSLM Sony A6000

Many photos on my blog are also taken with a mobile phone: Huawei P9

November 6, 2017 at 3:19 am

Wat would be the cost for solo trip for 5 days

November 17, 2017 at 10:19 pm

It depends on what places you want to visit, activities & hotel rates. Generally, a backpacker-friendly budget in the Philippines is around USD 20-50 or PHP 1000-2500 per day.

Check out these posts to get an idea of the costs of traveling in the Philippines: El Nido Travel Guide Blog Boracay Travel Guide Blog

November 13, 2017 at 11:58 pm

Interesting list but I would have to say that my first reaction when I was browsing through the places on the list was to disagree. However upon reading the article thats when I noticed that the list would Be for first time travelers who would like to start discovering beautiful places in the Philippines. I guess A more descriptive title would be better for this article. But interesting list.

November 17, 2017 at 10:03 pm

Thank you Blanne. The Philippines has so many beautiful spots to offer beyond these places listed. They are definitely worth seeking.

You’re right, I wrote this article keeping the ease of traveling to & around these spots in mind.

If you have destinations that you think should be on the article, I and my readers would appreciate including them on your next comment :)

November 24, 2017 at 4:36 am

How many days do you suggest to visit Philippines?

November 24, 2017 at 7:18 am

Depends on how many places you want to visit. Two to four week will be enough to visit the highlights. Or, at least 2 to 5 days per destination.

May 1, 2018 at 5:37 pm

Sir whats better to visit in Kalibo, cebu,davao or puerto princesa or legaspi?I went to corn boracay dumaguete and bohol already

May 3, 2018 at 12:08 am

Hi Sweet, I recommend that you go to Palawan!

September 8, 2018 at 4:51 pm

Hi… Can I asked what hotel in Baguio city and in palawan most expensive and worth it to stay..thank you

September 19, 2018 at 1:53 am

Hey Rosie. You can check the list of hotels here . Just enter your travel dates, sort the results by the highest guest reviews, and use the price/star rating filter.

September 11, 2018 at 11:59 pm

Hi, when having to choose to add days somewhere to stay longer you would go with Cebu/Bohol are or Palawan? :)

September 19, 2018 at 2:08 am

It depends on what kind of places you want to visit. For the best beaches & islands, go for Palawan (esp. El Nido and Coron). Explore more of Palawan if you want to visit more off-beat beaches and islands. If you want to have a more diverse experience, extend your trip in Cebu/Bohol (food, waterfalls, heritage sites, urban comforts etc.)

December 15, 2018 at 8:23 am

Totally agree with your list. Having Cebu and Bohol on your top 3 list is indeed the right thing. Palawan is the most popular to me in terms of local and foreign tourists that visits the place and Cebu as the second best places in your list is indeed correct, for me, and I also agree with your number 3. All in all, I agree with your list. These are indeed the best places in Philippines that every tourists shouldn’t miss

January 17, 2019 at 2:49 am

Thank you for this information I’ve enjoyed reading all your advise . We are a couple in our 50’s hoping to spend 3 weeks in the Philippines soon thinking of port Barton, El I do , Bohol what do you think ? Than you

January 18, 2019 at 4:44 pm

Yes, those are good choices! From El Nido, you can take the ferry to Coron as well. From Bohol, you can continue your trip to Dumaguete & Siquijor Island.

January 24, 2019 at 1:31 am

If I have one week to visit the Philipines, what places do you recommend me to go?

January 24, 2019 at 4:00 am

You can maybe limit to one, two or three places on the list. A good combination would be, Cebu & Palawan.

February 26, 2019 at 3:58 pm

What a fantastic, informative post with beautiful pictures! I am considering an 8 day visit in April and am trying to figure out where to go so this is very helpful. I’d love to see beautiful beaches and the whale shark, maybe the Tarsiers too. Any suggestions on where I could go and the order to go in? Thank you!!

March 1, 2019 at 2:37 pm

With 8 days, I recommend that you limit the no. destinations to 2 or 3 spots. I suggest Palawan and Cebu.

In Palawan, you can either go to Coron… or do the Puerto Princesa-El Nido route.

From Cebu, you can base at Cebu City and visit Bohol / South Cebu on day trips.

Enjoy the Philippines!

April 25, 2019 at 7:26 pm

Marcos, i just want to thank you for the awesome info you’ve provided through your pages. I’m heading to the Philippines in a few weeks for fourteen nights, i’m still quite confused regarding where to spend my time but i’m sure that once i look closer at all you have shared that i will be able to make my destination choices and thoroughly enjoy my time!

April 26, 2019 at 11:49 am

Hi Jason, you can start planning by including Palawan (El Nido and/or Coron) and then add more places that pique your interest. Enjoy the Philippines!

June 30, 2019 at 1:02 pm

Wow, that’s an awesome compilation of the best things to do in the Philippines! I’ll definitely share it as a reference with our readers, both travelers and local organizers. Thanks!

July 3, 2019 at 11:09 am

I’ve been to these places especially in most part of Mindanao and it’s such a rare beauty. That’s why whenever my friends would invite me to visit nearby countries in asia, I always tell them to finish exploring the Philippines first because there are literally thousands of places to visit and enjoy. It’s more fun in the Philippines, indeed :)

July 4, 2019 at 11:18 pm

I am so looking forward to reading this in more depth and checking out all the links, before my first trip to the Philippines at Christmas time

August 14, 2019 at 1:38 pm

Its nice have a safe trip always! share more adventures

August 24, 2019 at 2:50 pm

why have’nt you included Leyte or Southern Leyte two of the most interesting historic areas of the phlippines with tons of interesting stories from the second world war and the adventures of Marco Polo

August 28, 2019 at 1:51 pm

Actually, Phillipines is one of the places in my Bucket list which I have not explored yet. I love the city of Phillipines and the places you shared are so beautiful and so amazing. I really wish that someday I will visit this city as soon as possible. I just fall in love with these places. Thank you so much for this great post.

December 3, 2019 at 5:36 pm

From your article stating Palawan and Puerto Princesa at the very top of your best of list of the Philippines, we went extra to these two places to start our trip. What a shame and a big waste of money! Why not mention that Puerto Princesa, Palawan and particularly El Nido are overpriced tourist traps? How about giving a clear account of the greediness of the hotels, guesthouse and restaurants owners for such a low quality of service and infrastructure? (compared to over places in Asia). You do give an extensive list of nicer places in your article but saying that Palawan is the must destination is a big lie. If you want to be honest and help travelers, then weight your arguments, tell that what is special on Palawan is the island hoping and lagoons, for which the boat tours have a cost as well. And if you want to boost these places for some hidden interest of yours, at least be honest and give a realistic account of the prices and quality of services for each place you present. Thank you

January 30, 2020 at 8:00 pm

Hi Elodie! That is exactly my difficulty choosing where to go.. I am going for the first time to Philippines and i am really excited. However i only have 8 days this time as I am going to do a yoga teaching for a month right after.

my question is: If you are first time travelling to Philippines and have only 8 days should I do 1. Port Barton and el Nido or 2. Siargao ?

I am a lot into exploring and ideally less crowded more paradise like. I dont need any ‘luxury’ and I am going by my self end of Feb. any suggestions?

I know El Nido/Coron is like ‘THE’ place but i am not sure about how busy and tourity it might feel nowdays. In the other side Siargao seems really nice but not sure if the beauty would compare to el Nido.

thoughts please? :)

February 1, 2020 at 9:56 pm

Siargao is beautiful too. You can visit Sohoton Lagoons/Bucas Grande Island, which is one of the most beautiful places I’ve been to in the Philippines.

December 7, 2019 at 8:59 pm

Thanks for a great article. The Philippines is such an underrated country! I fell in love with the place on my first visit in 2014. I even met my wife in Manila.

December 30, 2019 at 6:37 pm

Amazing info! Question – how wheelchair friendly is Palawan, Manila & Cebu? My fiancé is quite mobile – he can around easily but he’s still in a wheelchair. I know it’s hard to say but is difficult yet do-able or completely forget it and don’t go?

December 31, 2019 at 7:32 am

Hi Terry. It’s definitely doable :)

January 24, 2020 at 1:53 pm

Hello Marcos,

Loved your article! I have two weeks in Philippines and I am flying in to Manila from Bali and onward to Hong Kong. I have only booked tickets from A-B-C .. and not inter city flights. I am planning to do Palawan -el nido, coron, Cebu and Bohol in central and sagada and rice fields in north. so my question- it a best option to come back to manila to catch flight to Hong kong or do you suggest to fly out from any other destination? .Thank you

February 1, 2020 at 10:00 pm

You can consider the direct flights to Hong Kong from Cebu or Puerto Princesa (Palawan) as well.

Here’s a route you can take:

Manila (+Sagada/Banaue) Clark to Palawan (Coron or Puerto Princesa) Flight Palawan to Cebu flight Cebu to Hong Kong flight

February 9, 2020 at 6:25 pm

Wishing to see the true natural beauty of Northern Mindanao;) Extremely loving places just like the article.

February 12, 2020 at 5:05 am

Wow! Thank you for sharing your travel adventures in your truly beautiful country. We are planning a trip for March 2020 and would love your advise on our itinerary if you are happy to give us some guidance :)

March 31, 2020 at 4:52 am

Amazing…Lovely the natural travel adventure.I love travelling the World and i read the article of the your adventure liked it.

April 1, 2020 at 4:00 am

Thanks for giving the great response

March 19, 2020 at 1:52 pm

It is true that one of the places in the Philippines that you must visit is Ilo-ilo. They have lots of beautiful tourist spots that you must see and experience. If you are the type person who loves sea or island hopping then I suggest that you try Islas de Gigantes. I recommend that you book your stay at Solina Beach & Nature Resort Iloilo because they are near the island plus they can arrange and accommodate everything for you. They will provide transportation going to the port, the boat that will take you to the islands, food, water, towels and someone who will be your guide.

March 26, 2020 at 8:42 pm

thanks for sharing

April 3, 2020 at 4:46 pm

I will really go to Palawan and Siargao after this COVID-19! I miss the view and breeze of beach!

April 11, 2020 at 3:29 pm

The Philippines is a wonderful country no doubt and the pics which you have shared, its outstanding and now I would like to see all these places. but would like to know these places are far from each other or they are close enough that you can explore these places at the same day.

May 14, 2020 at 1:24 pm

Maybe you should add Bacolod too, there are lots of great things to do there and neighboring areas like Talisay City, the Lakawon island, and more.

June 14, 2020 at 4:48 pm

I hope one day, you would be able to feature the following:

1. Sta. Cruz Island (Pink Sand) of Zamboanga City 2. Onces Islas of Zamboanga City 3. Malamawi Beach of the Province of Basilan 4. All beaches in the Province of Tawi-Tawi 5. Dakak Resort in Dapitan 6. Balut island in the Province of Sarangani

June 19, 2020 at 4:19 pm

Hello. Thank you for sharing this beautiful places in the Philippines. 😍 I used some of your photos as a model and i paint it for my Art vlogs. Thank youu ❤️

July 21, 2020 at 12:54 pm

Mayon Volcano is such a beauty. Its perfect cone is surreal! Imagining myself back in Bicol after this pandemic. Love this post!

October 3, 2020 at 1:34 am

thank you for the sharing of the post and informative Data in the post that is helpfull for me

December 10, 2020 at 6:50 pm

I want to thanks for your time for this wonderful Article!! I definitely enjoying every little bit of it and I have you bookmarked to check out new stuff you blog post.

February 27, 2021 at 7:44 am

Most of my friends tell me that the Philippines is one of the best places to travel during summer. For me, traveling is tied in with looking for new experiences. Furthermore, these experiences become considerably more fun when you can share them with an old buddy. Come and visit my article on Top 7 Destinations to Visit During Summer I hope this will guide you as well.

Thanks Nicki

March 25, 2021 at 6:28 am

This article is very informative. It is a valuable piece of information. I wish to now make a travel plan to the Philippines after reading your blog. Thanks for sharing your knowledge.

April 22, 2021 at 8:54 pm

Thank you for such a broad overview of the sights in the Philippines. This is the best place not only in your country, but in the whole world. Friends went and were very pleased. Hopefully, the quarantine will end a hundred and we will also come to visit you.

May 20, 2021 at 11:56 pm

February 10, 2023 at 4:25 pm

Very informative. Thank you for sharing. I love the Ube Jam from Good Shepherd and the beautiful view in Mines View Park. Baguio is one of the top tourist spot in the Philippines. I will definitely go back there.

February 14, 2023 at 5:37 pm

Hi Loved this artical and learned a lot I’m coming over with my GF from June 3rd till the 17th thinking of landing in Manila and heading towards Cebu would really love if someone could suggest the best places to hit as I’ve never been before and don’t know the Philippines

19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in the Philippines

Written by Lana Law , Michael Law , and Anietra Hamper Updated Mar 21, 2024

The Philippines is a tropical paradise in the Pacific Ocean made up of more than 7,000 islands that offer a natural playground for your inner explorer. Collectively, its landscapes feature an array of natural wonders, from volcanoes and rice terraces to underwater rivers and limestone caves, along with beautiful beaches .

Individually, the islands each offer something unique, whether you are looking for the best place to dive and snorkel or prefer to take in the historical sights in cities like Manila or Vigan .

Since the country is so spread out, a trip to the Philippines requires careful planning and some internal flights. Some destinations, like the Chocolate Hills in Bohol or the Hanging Coffins in Sagada, are remote, but getting there is well worth the effort. It's also important to consider the best time of year to visit the Philippines. The rainy season runs from June to November.

Plan your travels with our list of the top tourist attractions and things to do in the Philippines.

White Beach, Boracay

Relax on the stunning beaches of palawan, chocolate hills, bohol, underground river tour, puerto princesa, hanging coffins, sagada, diving in coron, batad rice terraces, banaue, mayon volcano, albay, island hopping, manila historical sightseeing tour, ride in a jeepney, historic tour of corregidor island, bird-watching, pagsanjan falls, laguna, tour colonial vigan, taal volcano, talisay, jungle training, subic bay, hanging bridge, sevilla, sugba lagoon, siargao, best time to visit the philippines.

There is no shortage of pristine beaches in the Philippines, but if you are looking for a more active beach scene, one of the best places to visit is White Beach in Boracay . This is the most populous beach on the island but where you will find ample opportunities for boating and other water sports. It's also one of the most beautiful beaches in Asia .

Plenty of chairs and hammocks are beneath the palm trees, so you can relax and enjoy the pure white sand. You can even book a beachside massage. Snorkeling is a popular activity at White Beach, but if you do not want to put in so much work, take a banana boat ride or book a trip on a glass-bottom boat.

At the northern tip of the Island of Palawan are some of the most scenic beaches in the Philippines, unlike anything else you will find in the country. This is not just stunning soft sand and warm calm waters like you find in other areas of the Philippines. Add to this, limestone cliffs jutting up from the ocean, secrete coves that you can paddle into, and beautiful offshore islands. Some of the islands are also home to boutique luxury resorts.

The main town here is El Nido . A variety of boat trips offer day tours from El Nido to secluded beaches, sandbars, and bays. This is the most popular activity here and something that almost everyone signs up for when visiting. But you do not need to even leave El Nido, you can find this beautiful setting from the beaches around town.

Northern Palawan is not overly developed. It has enough infrastructure to make things comfortable but it's not known for large resorts. If you are looking for luxury, it will be at small resorts and lodges. If you are looking for budget accommodation, you can find this as well in town but off the beach.

Palawan appeals to everyone from adventurous families to backpackers. A small airport in El Nido offers direct flights to Manila. The city of Puerto Princesa is also found on the island of Palawan, about a 5-hour drive from El Nido. If you want to see the Underground River in Puerto Princesa, you may want to fly into El Nido and out of Puerto Princesa or vice versa.

The geological wonder on the island of Bohol known as the Chocolate Hills is a unique natural phenomenon. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a protected area that features more than 1,200 small mountains that emerged above the ground over several centuries.

The area was once under the ocean, and these unique hills expand in every direction. They are green during much of the year, but during the dry season, they turn to a chocolate-brown color, thus the name, chocolate hills.

A convenient path leads to the top of a lookout area, which provides the best view. Be sure to observe the many delicate flowers along the walkway that are unique to this area.

Taking a river tour of the Underground River near Puerto Princesa is one of the most awe-inspiring things to do in the Philippines. The underground river on Palawan Island is inside the Subterranean River National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The boat tours take you to experience the majestic five-mile river that runs below ground. The trip takes you through an intricate cave system surrounded by vertical limestone cliffs. You can see ancient stalagmite and stalactite formations, as well as bats flying overhead, as the coolness of the cave balances the tropical heat outside.

As you float through the dark caves on emerald water, your guide will identify points of interest and tropical wildlife that live along the river, which flows into the South China Sea .

You can take a tour from Puerto Princesa, which is a long day due to the drive time involved. A better alternative is to stay in Sabang (which is about an hour and a half from Puerto Princesa) and hop on a tour boat right from there. This way you can see the cave in a morning or an afternoon. Sabang also has a beautiful beach and decent accommodation and is a nice place to spend a day or two whether or not you are visiting the cave.

The hanging coffins in Sagada, located in the northern Cordillera Mountains , is one of the most unusual sights in the Philippines. The hanging coffins, some centuries old, are suspended from the cliffs of the Echo Valley . These ceremonial burials were reserved for the wealthy tribesmen.

Getting to the mountainous region requires some travel time. Although transportation to this area is now easier than it used to be, it still requires some physical endurance to hike the steep and narrow paths to the secluded coffins.

You will want sturdy shoes, and you may want to train before your trip to adapt more quickly to the high altitude. The reward is a sight you will never forget and well-earned bragging rights.

Coron Island in the Philippines, as well as other nearby islands, are popular diving locations in the country due to the abundance of coral reefs and shipwrecks.

The sunken ships to explore on Sangat Island in Coron are some of the best diving sites in the world. The wrecks are at varied depths that are suitable for both deep-water scuba divers and shallow-water snorkeling.

The shipwrecks, many from WWII , have become habitats for diverse fish species. The clear water makes for easy viewing of the shipwrecks and underwater wildlife. Many of the shipwrecks are from an attack on the Imperial Japanese Navy in 1944. Deep divers will want to view the Akitsushima Maru warship, Irako Maru , and the Kyokuzan Maru .

The Coral Garden is a specific site with particularly accessible coral and fish species. Snorkeling and diving tours to the Coral Garden often encompass stops at nearby shipwrecks.

If you are unsure where to snorkel to see some of the best coral, taking an organized trip to the Coral Garden is an easy introduction to the sport. Guides are able to point out sea turtles and fish and offer information about what kinds of coral you are viewing underwater.

Viewing the Batad rice terraces at sunrise in Banaue is an unforgettable experience. This is especially recommended for landscape photographers who want to capture compelling images of Philippine agriculture. Some of these terraces are more than 2,000 years old and represent a common form of farming in the country.

The stacked terraces are carved by hand into the mountainside, creating vertical farming fields in a region void of flat land. Workers commonly plant rice and vegetables. You can walk some roads above the terraces that give you the best view by looking below. Early morning and dusk provide the best light to illuminate the electric green color of the fields.

The Mayon Volcano in the Albay province on Luzon Island is a must-see in the Philippines. It is an active stratovolcano with an elevation of more than 2,400 meters. The Mayon volcano has a perfect cone peak.

Most visitors will want to enjoy the volcano by viewing it from the ground. Nature trails in the national park grounds surround the volcano, where you can also see wildlife like parakeets and other birds.

Extreme hikers can apply for a permit to climb the volcano, but it is a difficult trek through forest, and dangerous gases are emitted near the peak, so caution is advised. The ideal time to visit is March through May, outside of the rainy season. You can take an organized trip from Manila to get here.

If you just cannot decide what to do or where to go in the Philippines, an island-hopping tour might offer just the right mix. You still have to whittle down choices, but an organized island-hopping tour allows you to see a collection of islands.

You can sample snorkeling, swimming, sightseeing, and dining on local food in multiple locations and eliminate the hassle of trying to plan it on your own. Many of the island hopping tours span several days. One of the most popular island-hopping tours is to the Caramoan Islands , which were made famous after being featured on the hit TV show Survivor.

Manila is an exciting and vibrant city that is a thriving metropolis surrounded by centuries-old churches and colonial history. It is easy to walk around Manila on your own, or take a guided sightseeing tour of the oldest district, the Intramuros or walled city, where you'll find some of the most significant tourist attractions and important landmarks and monuments.

This will give you a better appreciation for Manila. You can see the famous San Agustin Church and monuments at Rizal Park and Fort Santiago , each bearing a significant influence on Manila that is best shared by a guide. Some tours are offered by coach, and others are available as walking or biking tours around the city.

After your tour, stop by one of the local restaurants for lunch and enjoy modern-day Manila as you watch the colorful jeepneys flying by on the streets.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Manila

Taking a ride in a jeepney is a must-experience in the Philippines, even if you have no specific destination in mind. The jeepney is one of the main forms of transportation in the Philippines . They are vehicles originally made from post-World War II U.S. army jeeps that have been transformed into colorful and fun forms of transportation.

The jeepney has become synonymous with the Philippines; a national symbol of sorts. It is unique to the country. The decorations and colorful decor on the jeepneys are as chaotic as the traffic on the city streets in places like Manila. Taking a ride in one is a thrill, with the random stops to let people on and off and being truly immersed in the local culture as residents go about their daily lives. Try taking a jeepney to one of the tourist sites you plan to visit or to your dinner spot in the evening. It might just be the cheapest entertainment you find in the country, and it will definitely be one of the most memorable experiences.

A tour of Corregidor Island is a must-see for history buffs visiting the Philippines. The island played a significant role in World War II and was the location of several battles. The relics left behind from these battles include secret tunnels and bunkers used as hideouts during the war, as well as weapons, barracks, and historical artifacts.

Be sure to take some time at the Pacific War Memorial on-site. Regular guided tours leave from Manila to a ferry that takes you to the island. This requires a full day to visit, but it is well worth the time if you have an interest in WWII history.

The stunning natural landscapes and ecosystems throughout the Philippines lend themselves to diverse habitats for birds, meaning the bird-watching opportunities are plentiful. Even if you are not an avid birder, it is worth taking a pair of binoculars on your trip to get a glimpse of some unique species that you likely will not encounter in other parts of the world.

With more than 7,000 islands and 94 national parks in the Philippines, it can be tough to narrow down where to start to look for some of the 600 species of birds that either live in or migrate through the country, like the brown-throated sunbird or the Palawan peacock-pheasant.

Some of the best places to start are the locations that cater to bird-watching like La Mesa Eco Park , which is popular among avid birders looking for barred rails, little egrets, osprey, and migratory birds that regularly rest in the park. The Negros and Panay Islands provided habitat for the endangered Walden's hornbill.

In the Luzon region, the Angat Watershed Reserve is a good spot to find many species along the trails and in the nearby Angat Rainforest and Ecological Park . Another spot where you see many migratory birds is in the Candaba Wetlands in Pampanga for species like purple herons.

The only thing more exciting than admiring one of the most notable waterfalls in the Philippines is traversing it in a dugout canoe. The Pagsanjan Falls waterfall is part of the Pagsanjan Gorge National Park .

Your trip along the falls will take you upstream through tropical landscapes, where you will be able to swim in natural pools and pass through caves. Once you get used to the leisurely ride, prepare for the main event, as you head downstream at a fast pace through large rocks and churning water for what the locals call "shooting the rapids." It is an exhilarating outdoor adventure, and you can take day trips from Manila.

A fun place to visit with a terrific pre-colonial flair is the streets of Calle Crisologo of Vigan City, located in the Ilocos province. It stands out from other cities in the Philippines. The brick streets and traditional horse and carriage mode of transportation are reminiscent of the 16th-century trading hub that used to be for foreign traders coming through the area.

This is a fun city to spend a day or two on your trip. You can take an organized tour to learn about the city's history or stroll on your own to the small vendor shops and eateries along the main street. This is also a prime spot to find souvenirs, from bags to baskets and pottery, for a reasonable price.

Be advised that if you ask your calesa driver to take you to the best shopping area in the city, he or she might instead drop you off at a friend's shop in order to earn a kickback of your purchases. It's better to take a ride, then explore the city street shops on your own.

The Taal Volcano on the island of Luzon is one of the most active in the country. It is in the center of Taal Lake, so just getting to the crater is part of the adventure. The city of Talisay , where you will catch a boat to get to the crater, is less than an hour's drive from Manila. You will catch a boat to go across Taal Lake then hike to the rim of the crater.

There are a number of trails around the volcano. The Spanish Trail goes to the top of the volcano and has some of the most impressive views. The less popular Kenney Trail is a good option if you want to avoid potential crowds or if you think you might want to rest along the way.

This trail has quite a few shade trees. Due to the logistics involved in visiting Taal Volcano, you might want to consider an organized day tour.

When the United States Navy had an active base on Subic Bay, their Navy Seals received training by indigenous Aetas on how to survive the jungle. Now, you can visit the former base on Subic Bay and even take Jungle Environmental Survival Training from the natives.

You can take a tour of the former Subic Bay Naval Base and tour the converted complex, which has a number of activities on-site. Subic Bay is located on the island of Luzon, so it is an easy day trip from Manila, or you can stay in the region.

On the island of Bohol, a bridge made entirely of bamboo swings almost 40 meters in the air over the Loboc River . For those with a sense of adventure, or a desire to conquer a fear of heights, the hanging bridge walk will be a vacation experience you will never forget. The hanging bridge is in the town of Sevilla. It is easy to combine this experience with other excursions on Bohol Island.

Over the years, the bridge, which was originally made with woven bamboo, has received some safety reinforcements due to its popularity with tourists. Not to worry though, it still creeks and swings and gives you butterflies in your stomach as you look down at the rushing river below you.

There are so many iconic lagoons in the Philippines that have movie-set quality tranquil blue waters below a towering cliffside, but one of the most spectacular is Sugba Lagoon on the island of Siargao. The lagoon is perfect for just basking in the natural, peaceful surroundings, but there are plenty of activities, too, if you want a more adventurous day.

You can book a day-trip package to the Sugba Lagoon from a nearby city like Del Carmen or General Luna, but you can also go on your own. You must take a boat to the lagoon. If you have the nerves and are not afraid of heights, you can try cliff jumping from the designated area above the lagoon. You can also rent a paddleboard or kayak, and take a more peaceful tour of the lagoon at your own pace.

The best time to go to the Philippines is during the dry season , which is between November and April , when you will have optimal weather conditions and the best opportunities for outdoor experiences throughout the country. This time of year has the least amount of rainfall, which means more favorable beach days , fewer chances of weather-impacted flight delays, and easier accessibility to remote regions and smaller islands.

The dry season is also the high tourist season and the most popular time to visit so you will have increased tourist activity and higher prices for airfare and lodging. During this popular time, the months of December, January and February are the coolest months to visit before the sweltering Asian heat kicks in starting in March. Keep in mind that high temperatures and humidity surge in April and May.

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

10 Top Tourist Attractions in the Philippines

By Kay Pierce · Last updated on February 5, 2024

Located at the very eastern edge of Asia, the Philippines are home to more than 7,000 islands, which are inhabited by friendly locals and many indigenous tribes. From pristine beaches and marvelous natural wonders to interesting historic sites and once-in-a-lifetime experiences, the Philippines pack many exciting things to see and do. Check out the following top tourist attractions in the Philippines .

10. Tubbataha Reef [SEE MAP]

The Tubbataha Reef in the Sulu Sea is a marine sanctuary protected as the Tubbataha Reef National Marine Park. The reef is made up of two atolls, North Atoll and South Atoll, separated by a deep channel of approximately 5 miles (8 km) wide. It has become one of the most popular dive sites in the Philippines because of its coral walls where the shallow coral reef abruptly ends giving way to great depths. The marine park is open to live-aboard diving excursions between the months of April to June when the waves are most calm.

9. San Agustin Church, Manila [SEE MAP]

Located in Manila, a visit to the San Agustin Church is a must see. Built in 1589, this beautiful church has survived seven earthquakes and two fires over the centuries and now remains as the oldest stone church in the Philippines. At the main entrance, there are exquisite carvings on the wooden doors. Inside the lovely, Mexican-influenced interior is designed in the shape of a Latin cross. The gorgeous ceiling was painted in the 1800s by Italian artists, Giovanni Dibella and Cesare Alberoni.

8. Mayon Volcano [SEE MAP]

Rising more than 8,000 feet (2,400 meters) above sea level, Mayon Volcano is significant for its perfectly symmetrical cone shape. Visitors can enjoy a number of activities here such as camping, climbing, hiking, bird watching and photography. A picturesque spot in which to admire Mayon Volcano is from the nearby Cagsawa ruins. Mayon is the most active volcano in the Philippines, having erupted over 49 times in the past 400 years. The most destructive eruption of Mayon occurred on February 1, 1814 bombarding the nearby towns with volcanic rocks. The belfry and what is left of the baroque church that was destroyed by the 1814 eruption can still be seen.

7. Malapascua Island [SEE MAP]

A small island made up of quiet fishing villages, Malapascua Island is popular for its ideal diving spots and for being the only place in the world to see thresher sharks on a regular basis as well as manta rays and hammerheads. The other hidden gems here are the beautiful, sandy white beaches, crystal clear waters bordered by coconut trees and colorful coral gardens.

6. Puerto Galera [SEE MAP]

Just south of Manila is the charming coastal town of Puerto Galera, well-favored for its gorgeous beaches, excellent diving spots and wide diversity of marine species. The most popular beaches are White Beach and Sabang Beach, which also offer nearby shopping, dining, nightlife and hotel accommodation. Another popular attraction is the natural harbor of Muelle Bay with its rows of shops, restaurants and bars. Visitors can also go snorkeling to see some of Asia’s best coral reefs or dive among old shipwrecks and hundreds of fish species.

5. Puerto Princesa Underground River [SEE MAP]

Located on the northern coast of the island of Palawa, Puerto Princesa is a nature lover’s paradise. Home to unspoiled landscapes rich in wildlife, this lovely town also lays claim to one of the world’s most unique natural phenomena, an underground river known as the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River. Protected within a national park, this natural wonder is the world’s longest navigable underground river. Guided paddle boat tours show intriguing rock formations and fluttering bats.

4. Donsol [SEE MAP]

Located in the province of Sorsogon, a place of pristine beaches, stunning waterfalls and unexplored caves, the sleepy fishing village of Donsol is the place in the Philippines to see whale sharks. The ocean’s gentle giants can be seen between November and June, with the numbers peaking between February and May. Tourists can also take a boat cruise along the Donsol River through mangrove and palm trees, and watch the night light up with millions of sparkling fireflies. If that’s not enough, a traditional shrimp-catching expedition with bamboos and nets, followed by a tasty dinner of the cooked catch is also available.

3. Chocolate Hills [SEE MAP]

One of the top tourist attractions in the Philippines, The Chocolate Hills are unusual geological formations that consists of at least 1,268 individual mounds scattered throughout the interior of the island of Bohol. The almost symmetrical and same-sized formations range from 98 to 164 feet (30 to 50 meters) high and are covered in green grass. During the dry season the grass turns brow, hence the name. There is no consensus on how these giant mole hills were formed. One theory holds that the Chocolate Hills are the weathered rock formations of a kind of marine limestone on top of an impermeable layer of clay.

2. Boracay [SEE MAP]

Boracay may be a small island, but it packs great features such as award-winning beaches, beautiful resorts and great adventures like cliff diving, parasailing, motorbiking, horse riding, snorkeling, kite surfing and scuba diving. If that is not enough, boat tours allow visitors to watch stunning sunsets, explore volcanic caves and remote coves of turquoise lagoons. When the sun sets, Boracay night-life pulsates with many bars and restaurants serving food, drinks and fun until dawn.

1. Banaue Rice Terraces [SEE MAP]

No trip to the Philippines could be complete without seeing the spectacular Banaue Rice Terraces. Carved from the mountain ranges about 2,000 years ago without modern tools by the Ifugao tribes, these magnificent farm terraces resemble giant steps reaching up to the sky. Locals to this day still plant rice and vegetables on the terraces, although more and more younger Ifugaos do not find farming appealing and emigrate to the cities.

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Reader interactions.

September 2, 2018 at 11:08 pm

Why the Batanes were not mentioned as tourist spot of the Philippines. You know the Batanes is one of the most wonderful place in the Philippines where you can relax, enjoy and has a peaceful and hidden beauty.

May 18, 2017 at 2:32 pm

To all the people that look and read these lists, I grew up in the philippines but I lived now in California I go back to Philippines often. I must say and I’ll repeat it again I must say that there’s a hundred hidden gems in the Philippines that most people don’t know you have to know someone that know where to go and I guarantee you, you will be amazed, guaranteed.

March 14, 2017 at 5:49 pm

Batanes is not included? El Nido and Batanes are tied at no. 1 spot!!

February 28, 2016 at 3:01 am

Thank you for sharing the beauty of the Philippines. This may I will be in Donsol to experience whale shark watching. This is so exciting.

June 25, 2015 at 11:42 pm

Been to 6 out 10 places . Haven’t been to ‘Malapascua, Tubataha, , Chocolate Hills and Rice Terraces. I agree with some of the comments here, Coron Island should be included. The places not miss there are the following, Kayangan Lake, Twin Lagoon, Barracuda Lake (fresh hot and cold water), you can see the thermocline. Mount tapyas (hill with hundreds of stairs to view sunset). Hot spring (need to pay), and of course Wreck Diving . I have a diving license so this is the place to be. Donsol with Whale shark is also a must see and experience.

April 28, 2015 at 8:06 am

Ive been to 6 out of 10 tourist spots in this list.. But EL NIDO, SAGADA, and GUIMARAS… Are my favorite.

February 17, 2015 at 6:17 am

Nice to see all the beautiful and irresistible places in the Philippines. .Mambukal in Negros Occidental must be here..with its stunning and unforgetable water dripping down..

January 14, 2015 at 6:34 am

Hi guys, thank you very much for sharing all these beautiful tourist spots in our beloved country The Philippines. But you should go and visit Iloilo and Guimaras island too, the beaches there are superb, like Boracay it is also a fine white sands. It is very safe place clean and not polluted. People there are very warm,friendly and sweet. And foods and accommodations there are cheap and really good too, specially fruits and seafoods. You must try to go there because it’s gonna be an unforgettable experience and you would want to go back, for sure.

January 13, 2015 at 12:23 am

the philippines is really blessed.. beaches,natural parks.. WOW! i hope more Filipinos will visit them someday.

January 12, 2015 at 10:32 pm

When it comes to diving, snorkling, and island hopping try Apo Island in Negros Oriental simpy the best:)

December 4, 2014 at 12:17 am

For me , the 1st one that i’ve seen from this 10 top tourist attractions is Puerto Gallera. Also one of the best that I have seen. Wonderful. We went for snorkeling, nice nice nice, want to visit more there…

December 3, 2014 at 1:06 pm

There is a lot more unexplored places you can visit in the Philippines. Imagine having 7107 islands, for sure there will be some small place that you will miss out. One of which is CARABAO ISLAND. A very nice place to visit similar to BORACAY but without the bars. A perfect place for people who wants to have a quiet place to stay.

October 22, 2014 at 8:10 am

Yea. Philippines Rocks! and Boracay is the number 1! I know a tourist attraction in Cebu. They call it “The Sardine Run” and “The Diver’s Spot”. Its called Pescador Island.

September 27, 2014 at 8:09 am

elnido,coron and boracay are the best!

July 13, 2014 at 7:58 am

boracay and elnido are the best!

June 23, 2014 at 6:58 am

Awesome!!!!!!! Philippines is really amazing and has many beautiful places that you can visit! One of the best country in the world 😀 You may also visit: EL Nido, Coron Palawan, Siargao, Boracay, Kawasan Falls !!!!!!!! And many more beaches and falls.You can have Island Hopping also! Awww THE BEST! :))

June 14, 2014 at 9:21 pm

For me?,boracay is the best, not just because it is a tourist destination, but also of white beach,and there are also many ita or negrito tribes.come on visit boracay and explore the beauty.

June 4, 2014 at 11:58 am

U must visit also mindanao part.esp surigao del sur.the tinuy an falls.enchanted river.etc.

May 7, 2014 at 3:13 am

One of the best tourist destination is El Nido and Coron, in Palawan. These 2 destinations are just a small town but what makes makes it unique and different from other places is its natural inviting crystal clear waters in diverse and full of marine life lagoons, caves, lakes and beaches. Priceless experience, tiring but worth it to be in these places.

March 6, 2014 at 1:07 am

Aurora is also one of the best and cheapest place to visit in the Philippines. Province of Senator Angara.

March 2, 2014 at 8:58 pm

Hinatuan river in Surigao del Sur should be there too 😀

January 31, 2014 at 7:13 pm

Thank you for featuring our country, the Philippines. The places included in the list are indeed beautiful, I’ve personally been to 6 of the 10 listed in here, but touring the Philippines need not be limited to these places alone as in almost every province there’s something to see (I haven’t been to every province but given that the Philippines is made up of 7107 islands, there’s bound to be different things to see :D).

As for Paul, the Philippines is not an expensive place to visit, especially if you want to visit the provinces (where most of the places listed are located). There are many decent accommodations that cost 10-15 usd or less (includes meals already). And if you want to slum it, the cost will definitely be cheaper. Most of these accommodations can be contacted via email or through their website, and you can also purchase via booking sites because sometimes they have promo prices. Hope this helps! Have fun!

January 16, 2014 at 7:12 am

Im thinking about going to the philippines but would like to know if its an exspensive destination to visit? Im not looking for glamorous accommodation but something decent, does anyone know what pricing is like? Thanks.

January 8, 2014 at 5:28 am

Wow. Nice list. These are the popular ones but a lot out there are still hidden or unknown to many such a Isla de Gigantes, Palui Island, Calaguas Group of Islands, etc. El Nido and Coron in Palawan ar also worth a mention.

November 25, 2013 at 12:02 am

would you believe that i am from ifugao and i never saw banaue rice terraces.. maybe someday somehow i’ll reach that place

November 17, 2013 at 4:45 pm

I love the Philippines. been There 4 times. My favorite is palawan.

September 25, 2013 at 7:42 am

Absolutely right I’m so proud of our beautiful tourist spots at Philippines mostly Boracay u will be very enjoy the cool ambiance nd if ever u like some cold places u must visit the Bagio the Tagaytay nd others. You will love the veiws of Hundred Islands too! Try to visit also the Cebu, Davao, nd Palawan nd ofcourse the Manila where there’s a Museum ,MOA nd Cavite nd Laguna our historic places!!!!

August 29, 2013 at 4:33 am

CORON is the best! i’ve been there so many times, and planning to go back again… hmmn.., i wonder why it is not here??

July 20, 2013 at 11:09 am

I went to the Philippines in Oct 2012.El nido was stunning i must say,Bohol i thought was well overated.Anopther must see place if you like history is a visit to Corregidor Island,Fantastic Island off Manila,Im going back to El nido in Oct 2013.Might take in Coron this time too and Taal volcano.

July 19, 2013 at 1:49 am

El Nido should be on the list.. It’s a paradise! I’ve seen the chocolate hills but I really didn’t appreciate it.

July 4, 2013 at 5:25 pm

Hi guys, Ive went to boracay. It was a blast. We went diving, Banana boat riding, ate fine seafoods and chilling in the bars at night. What makes it so nice is that filipinos and foreigners are so polite and happy being a part of such place. Day and night the place is so colorful and romantic as well. Hope you all can visit there.

April 25, 2013 at 10:34 pm

i agree. the philippines has lots of tourists spots, especially beaches! 🙂

March 22, 2013 at 12:35 pm

I think the best of Philippines was missed here. I believe that Coron, Palawan is the best to visit in the Philippines. A lot of white sand beaches, lagoon, the Kayangan Lake – the cleanest lake and sunken Japanese warships are great for diving. Here are great places to go in Coron:

Kayangan Lake , Barracuda Lake, Sunken Japanese Wrecks, Coral Garden, Banol Beach, Twin Lagoon, Mt Tapyas, Banana Island, Siete Pecados, Malcapuya Island, Skeleton Reef, Black Island, Caluit Island (Animal Sanctuary), North & South Cay Island.

If you doubt, just google the place i mentioned and it will blow you away…

March 21, 2013 at 11:47 pm

The Chocolate Hills are an example of karst topography. Over thousands of years, the limestone base was dissolved by carbonic acid that was formed by water (rainfall, surface water, underground water) mixed with carbon dioxide. This is also how other similarly awesome topography in the Philippines was formed, e.g., Hundred Islands in Lingayen Gulf, the limestone islets around El Nido, and the Underground River in Puerto Princesa.

Cheers from Manila!

January 22, 2013 at 1:20 am

Yeah, there are so many beautiful places in Philippines. Specially their beaches, I love Boracay white sands and pristine water.

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Top 10 Road Trip Destinations Near Manila

9. Pampanga

6. cagbalete island in quezon, 4. baler, aurora, 3. la union, 2. batangas, 1. tagaytay.

Manila , the capital city of the Philippines, is a dynamic metropolitan center that offers locals and travelers lots of tourist spots and activities, from museums , city parks, and shopping centers to food tours that are also near Manila hotels  and serviced apartments in Metro Manila .

• Read our article on the best beach resorts near Manila
• Read our guide on getting around the Philippines

While you're in Manila and have extra time in your travel itinerary, don't miss the chance to explore other nearby destinations. Manila is strategically located near surrounding provinces that offer scenic views and enticing activities, from beaches and mountains to historical sites. 

Whether you’re a first-time Manila visitor who wants to maximize your stay in the city or a local who’s aching for a quick break from the hustle and bustle of urban living, here are 10 of the best road trip destinations that you can easily visit from Manila by commuting, driving with a personal vehicle or car rental in Manila , or booking tours.

See our popular Day Trips from Manila

Private transfer between manila airport and any hotel in selected cities, dingalan aurora shared day tour with lunch & transfers | white beach, tanawan falls & lamao cave, 2-day trip to buscalan village, home of legendary tattoo artist apo whang-od.

Head north from Manila and experience a fun waterpark adventure at Inflatable Island located in Subic. Known as Asia’s largest floating playground at 4,200 square meters, you will surely feel like a kid again with the waterpark’s inflatable slides and challenging activities. You can book an Inflatable Island day tour to experience the fun. 

Subic is also home to family-friendly tourist spots like Zoobic Safari, where you can interact with different animals, and Ocean Adventure, where you can watch sea animals perform. 

Subic is also a quick beach getaway for city dwellers since it has a number of beach resorts ranging from luxury to budget. It's also the jump-off point for those who want to explore the beaches and coves of  Zambales , like Nagsasa Cove and Anawangin Cove. 

• Check out our list of the best hotels and resorts in Subic
• Book Zambales tours

Subic can easily be accessed from Manila through public transportation. For a fuss-free trip, you can also opt to avail of a rent a car service or book Subic tours .

See our popular Subic Tours and Activities

The province of Pampanga is known as the Culinary Capital of the Philippines and is one of the most popular tourist spots near Manila. It's a must-visit destination for foodies as it features many well-known restaurants that offer local Kapampangan dishes as well as famous iconic Filipino cuisine . Aside from food, the province is also known for its many tourist spots and activities  that are accessible from  Pampanga hotels . 

For thrill-seekers, Sandbox Pampanga is a must-visit during Pampanga tours because of its adventure-packed attractions and rides. Located in Porac, Pampanga, this 2-hectare outdoor park has a number of obstacle courses and attractions that you can try, such as their zipline, aerial walk, and adventure tower.

Adults will definitely feel like a kid again at their famous Giant Swing. Sandbox also offers ATV rides, a mini-golf course, camping sites, and kiddie playgrounds.

For those seeking water activities, you can enjoy the wakeboarding activity in Pradera Verde, located in Lubao, Pampanga. They have three lakes for beginners to practice their skills and staff who will show you the right stance and basic moves. For experienced wakeboarders, a separate lake is available where you can hone your skills and learn new tricks.

• Check out our article on  where to stay in Pampanga

Another go-to destination that you shouldn’t miss in Pampanga is Aqua Planet in Clark City, Pampanga. It is one of the largest waterparks in Asia. Aqua Planet features over 38 slides and attractions such as Aqua Loop, the Tornado, and Superbowl that both adults and kids would enjoy. 

See our popular Pampanga Tours and Activities

Clark city airport transfer, bataan & pampanga world war ii tourist spots shared day tour with transfers from manila, action-packed 12-day hiking package to highest & scenic mountains in the philippines.

From Manila, go south and enjoy the fresh air of Laguna, the resort capital of the Philippines. This province is one of the must-visit places near Manila because of its lush scenery, historical sites, and variety of attractions and Laguna tourist spots . The province can easily be visited by commuting, renting a car from Manila, or booking Laguna tours . 

One of the places that you can visit is Aquascape Lake Caliraya, a rustic lakeside resort in Cavinti. This picturesque lakeside resort features seven native-style rooms good for families or friends.

What stands out the most in this resort are their spacious floating cottages. Aside from their relaxing accommodations, Aquascape Lake Caliraya also offers water activities such as kayaking, electric bike, electric motorboat, and jetski. You can also swim in the lake, take a dip in their open-air tub or soak your feet at the doctor fish spa.

• Read our article on the best Laguna resorts

Another well-known destination in Laguna is San Pablo’s Seven Lakes. Situated in between two dormant volcanoes, Mt. Makiling and Mt. Banahaw, these lakes are actually low-profile craters formed through volcanic activity.

As time passed, water eventually filled these craters and created the seven lakes of San Pablo, Lakes Sampaloc, Bunot, Palakpakin, Mohikap, Pandin, Yambo, and Calibato.

Lake Pandin is popular for its tours where you can rent a water raft and hire a tour guide that will take you around the area. You may also swim in the lakes so don’t forget to bring your swimwear and sunblock to fully maximize your tour.

See our popular Laguna Tours and Activities

Laguna is also known for its waterfalls. You can visit more than one waterfall in a day, as these natural attractions are located near each other.

Pagsanjan Falls is a majestic natural attraction that features strong waters rushing down from a 90-meter drop. Another famous destination is the Hulugan Falls, also dubbed by the locals as the “social media waterfall” of the province because of its beautiful cascading waters over tiered boulders. 

For travelers seeking a more relaxing trip, you can head to Hidden Valley Springs resort, a tropical oasis in the middle of a rainforest, located in Calauan, Laguna. Enjoy a refreshing dip in one of their six natural pools, including two kiddie pools.

Aside from swimming, you can also trek tp forest. The resort also offers a sumptuous buffet lunch featuring some of the best Filipino dishes.

The province of Bataan is a popular go-to destination near Manila because of its many cultural and natural attractions . From beach resorts to historical sites and stunning mountain views, the province has endless Bataan tourist spots .

You can easily visit Bataan by commuting. For a hassle-free trip, you can rent a car from Manila or book Bataan tours . 

Travel back in time when you join tours to Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar , the first-ever heritage resort in the Philippines, located at Bagac, Bataan. This 400-hectare heritage site is one of the best resorts in Bataan and is home to Jose Acuzar’s collection of restored Spanish-Filipino Homes, most of which played a part in Philippine history.

The resort also features a replica of Manila’s Jones Bridge, a private beach, and a small church. You can book a day tour to fully explore and learn the interesting stories that come with each structure. 

See our popular Bataan Tours and Activities

2-day luxury bataan package at rancho bernardo with breakfast & butler service, bataan las casas filipinas de acuzar shared heritage day tour with calesa ride & transfers.

Bataan also has a variety of beaches to choose from if you’re looking for a more laid-back trip. Five Fingers in Mariveles, Bataan, is a known beach destination near Manila because of its breathtaking views.

You can book an island-hopping tour to explore the surrounding coves and islands. It is dubbed the Batanes of the West because of its scenic views of the ocean and its surrounding mountains. You can also go snorkeling, cliff diving, and rock climbing here.

You can also hike up Mt. Samat, a historic mountain situated in the town of Pilar, Bataan. Standing at 545 meters, it was the site for one of the bloodiest battles during the start of World War II, between the Imperial Japanese Army and Allied Forces.

In remembrance of the heroic struggle and sacrifices of the fallen soldiers, the Mt. Samat National Shrine was erected. The shrine complex features a white memorial cross standing 92 meters tall, an observation deck, and a war museum.

On a clear day, the city of Manila located 50KM from Bataan can be seen across Manila Bay from the summit.

Located on the east coast of Luzon, Cagbalete is a picturesque island that features a white-sand beach. This paradise in Mauban is one of the best beaches near Manila and one of the top tourist spots in Quezon Province . Cagbalete Island can be accessed by commuting, renting a car, or booking Quezon tours.

There are 12 private beach resorts on Cagbalete Island offering accommodations, which range from budget-friendly camping tents to luxurious rooms.

• Read our article on the best resorts in Quezon Province

During low tide, you’ll witness the expanse of creamy and powdery white sand of Cagbalete Island. You can capture your best shots, walk along the shore, or just relax by reading a book under a tree while overlooking the sea. You can also book an island-hopping tour to fully maximize your trip.

See our popular Quezon Tours and Activities

The province of Rizal, located just outside Metro Manila, offers a wide array of attractions and activities . It's the perfect go-to destination for those looking for a quick escape from the city.

Its capital city is Antipolo, where you will find the famous Pinto Art Museum. This contemporary museum is popular for its lovely interiors and a wide variety of artworks ranging from native art to contemporary paintings and sculptures. 

• Book Rizal tour packages
• Read our article on the top hotels in Antipolo

If you’re looking to relax and pamper yourself, then you can head to Luljetta’s Hanging Garden and Spa. This little haven will give you a calming stay with its relaxation packages and amenities.

Take a dip in their pools, get a massage, or just enjoy the spectacular view of the Sierra Madre Mountain Range while chilling in their comfortable lounge chairs. 

See our popular Rizal Tours and Activities

Antipolo luljetta's hanging gardens spa 5-hour day pass with sauna, pool & lounge access + snacks, altaroca mountain resort antipolo rizal day pass with use of cottage, rizal mt. batolusong & sangab cave and river shared minor day hike with transfers from manila.

For adventure-seekers, Masungi Georeserve is the place to be. This conservation area is a sanctuary where guests can commune with nature, learn about natural conservation, and enjoy the many exciting activities and trails.

It became famous for its giant hammock and metal spiderweb on top of limestone cliffs. Have fun at the rope courses and go trekking to see a picturesque view of the Sierra Madre Mountain Range.

The mountainous province of Rizal is also one of the top hiking destinations near Manila. Some of Rizal’s famous mountains are Treasure Mountain, Mount Daraitan , Mount Pamitinan, Mount Batolusong , Mt. Mapalad , Nagpatong Rock , and  Mt. Kulis .

Each mountain offers a scenic trail and gorgeous views of lush greenery and surrounding areas. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned hiker, there’s a mountain for you to conquer in Rizal. 

Baler is well-known as one of the top surfing destinations in the Philippines . It is one of the best beach destinations to visit near Manila.

Once a sleepy town in Aurora, Baler has flourished into a surf town with a wide variety of beach resorts , restaurants, bars, and surf shops. Its main attraction is Sabang Beach, which is frequented by surfers. 

• Check out our list of the top tourist spots in Baler

Aside from surfing, other destinations you can visit in Baler is the century-old Balete Tree, Baler Museum and Aurora Quezon House. Here, you will see bits and pieces of Baler’s history. 

See our popular Aurora Tours and Activities

Another top surfing destination in the Philippines is La Union, a well-loved weekend destination among locals, especially city dwellers. Book a La Union day tour from Manila to explore this surfing spot. 

La Union can easily be accessed through public transportation. However, for a hassle-free trip, you can also opt to rent a car or drive your personal vehicle to this popular surf town.

Thunderbird Poro Resort is one of the most popular  La Union beach resorts located in San Fernando. This Santorini-inspired resort is nestled on top of a scenic 100-foot cliff, the highest point in the Poro Peninsula. Aside from its picturesque views and lovely Greece-inspired exteriors, this resort also offers a variety of activities and amenities for guests to enjoy.

For budget travelers and adventure seekers, many hostels and hotel accommodations are available in San Juan, the surf capital of La Union. This is also the most visited town compared to the other towns in La Union because of its active nightlife and a wide array of restaurants, cafes, and surf shops.

Travelers will enjoy surfing, hanging out by the beach, and café-hopping in this hip surf town that is home to a lot of tourist spots . Don’t forget to watch the sunset by the beach as San Juan offers the some of the best sunset views that would surely leave you in awe.

See our popular La Union Tours and Activities

2-day scenic ilocos norte & historic vigan shared tour package from manila, la union shared day tour from manila to thunderbird resort, san juan beach, baluarte watch tower, 2-day surfing town la union shared tour package with accommodations & transfers.

Batangas , just a few hours away south of Manila, is known for its many Batangas beach resorts , diving destinations, and mountains for hiking. It can easily be accessed by public or private transportation, car rental, or booking Batangas tours . 

• Read our article on the best Batangas tourist spots

Whether you want to stay in a luxurious resort or budget-friendly accommodations by the beach, you'll have plenty of options in Batangas.

Nasugbu, situated in the northwestern part of Batangas, houses some of the most popular beach resorts in the province, such as Canyon Cove Hotel & Spa, Pico Sands Hotel, Amara Residences, and Club Punta Fuego. You can also go on a Fortune Island day tour where an old resort that looks like a the ruins of a Greek palace stands. 

In Lipa, you can visit The Farm at San Benito , in Talisay, there’s Club Balai Isabel, and further south in Laiya, you can visit Acuatico Beach resort. 

Batangas has also gained popularity as the nearest diving spot from Manila. Whether you’re a beginner or a professional diver, Anilao in Batangas has over 20 diving sites for you to explore. You can expect to see different varieties of fishes, sea creatures, and majestic corals.

Batangas is also home to several mountain ranges and lush forests, that's why it's one of the top destinations for hiking in the Philippines .

Some of the province’s renowned mountains for hiking tours are Mt. Batulao, Mt. Maculot, Mt. Gulugod-Baboy , Mt. Talamitam , and Mt. Daguldol. Each mountain offers scenic views of either the beach or Taal Lake and Volcano and the lush greenery of the surrounding areas.

See our popular Batangas Tours and Activities

The chilly weather and scenic views of Tagaytay  have made it the quick go-to weekend tourist spot near Manila. This family-friendly destination is just a few hours away from Metro Manila and offers many activities and attractions for travelers to choose from.

When doing Tagaytay tours , it is highly recommended to try their famous bulalo, a Filipino soup dish made with beef shanks and vegetables. It is the perfect dish for the city’s cool weather.

While most restaurants in Tagaytay offer bulalo, most travelers flock to Mahogany Market, where multiple stalls offer the hot dish with local Philippine coffee called Kapeng Barako. You can also stop by the many Tagaytay coffee shops with a view of Taal for a relaxing time.

Tagaytay is also home to many restaurants and cafes, some of which offer the best views of the famous Taal Lake and Volcano. Some of these can be found in the best hotels in Tagaytay . You can check out Bag of Beans, Josephine’s, Balay Dako, Antonio's, and the many other dining options available.

• Read our article on the best hotels in Tagaytay with Taal view

If you're traveling with kids or kids at heart, visit Sky Ranch, a theme park in Tagaytay. Perched on a cliff, this theme park offers a beautiful view of Taal Lake and Volcano. You can enjoy the rides and activities such as the Carousel, Super Viking, Drop Tower, and the famous 63-meter Ferris Wheel. 

For a much more relaxed Tagaytay sightseeing trip , you can visit the Tagaytay picnic grove, a favorite among families. The place features picnic areas set on a hilltop, overlooking the Taal Lake and Volcano.

You can choose any table to set up your picnic and enjoy the view while eating a sumptuous meal. Activities are also offered in the picnic grove. You can try horseback riding, ziplining, and trekking on a short eco-trail.

See our popular Tagaytay Tours and Activities

Tagaytay palace in the sky taal view & farms shared day tour with lunch & transfers from manila, tagaytay city sightseeing shared day tour with transfers from manila | picnic grove, twin lakes, coffee farm tour at amadeo cavite near manila & tagaytay with live brewing & tasting sampler.

Buckle Up and Explore Destinations Near Manila

Make the most of your stay in Manila by visiting the many nearby road trip destinations from the city. Whether you are looking for an adventurous trip or a relaxing activity, you won’t run out of choices to add to your itinerary.

Explore the nearby destinations from Manila today and indulge in a staycation in the Philippines . You can also try glamping in the Philippines by renting a car . If you are on a budget, check out the top affordable resorts near Manila .

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