Explore the best places to visit in the Philippines — from stunning beaches and hidden lagoons to vibrant cities and cultural gems. This list is based in no particular order, and I’ll keep adding more destinations as I continue to travel and discover. Stay tuned for updates and new spots that showcase the beauty and diversity of the Philippines.
El Nido will always be my favorite island in the Philippines. I’ve been here three times already, and each visit keeps me coming back to discover more. Famous for its dramatic limestone cliffs rising over turquoise waters and hidden lagoons only reachable by boat, El Nido is perfect for island hopping, snorkeling, and sunset cruises. No matter how touristy it gets, it remains the best place to relax, recharge, and appreciate nature’s beauty.
Island Hopping Tour A (Lagoons & Beaches)
Island Hopping Tour C (Hidden Beaches & Shrine)
Coron, Palawan is known worldwide for its shipwreck diving, crystal‑clear lakes, and rugged island scenery — a true paradise for divers and explorers. I’ve been here twice, and I always love the experience. From swimming in Kayangan Lake and Twin Lagoon to uncovering historic WWII shipwrecks beneath turquoise waters, Coron offers a mix of adventure and natural beauty that keeps me coming back for more.
Coron, Palawan is known worldwide for its shipwreck diving, crystal‑clear lakes, and rugged island scenery — a true paradise for divers and explorers. I’ve been here twice, and I always love the experience. From swimming in Kayangan Lake and Twin Lagoon to uncovering historic WWII shipwrecks beneath turquoise waters, Coron offers a mix of adventure and natural beauty that keeps me coming back for more.
San Vicente, Palawan may be quieter than its famous neighbors, but it holds treasures worth discovering. I’ve been here once for a short stay, and I’m hopeful to come back someday to explore more. Known for its laid‑back charm, San Vicente is home to Port Barton’s island hopping and the Philippines’ longest stretch of white sand at Long Beach — a paradise for slow travelers seeking authentic beauty away from the crowds.
Cebu is a destination full of adventure and culture. From swimming with whale sharks in Oslob and canyoneering at Kawasan Falls, to snorkeling with sardines and turtles in Moalboal, Cebu offers experiences that stay with you. I’ve been here once, and there’s just too much to do and explore — especially in the northern part of the island. I hope to come back again to discover more of Cebu’s hidden gems and vibrant spirit.
Bohol may be a small island across from Cebu, but it feels magical with its mix of nature and culture. I’ve been here once, and even in that short visit, I was captivated by its beauty. My favorite is the Man‑Made Forest, a lush stretch of towering mahogany trees that feels otherworldly as you drive through. Combined with the Chocolate Hills, tarsiers, and river cruises, Bohol is a destination that shows off the Philippines’ natural wonders in the most enchanting way.
I’ve been to Boracay three times, and each visit has been nothing short of amazing. Sure, it’s one of the most touristry islands in the Philippines, but that’s part of its charm — there’s always so much happening, so many good vibes, and endless activities to dive into. From sunrise paddle boarding to sunset strolls along White Beach, Boracay offers the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. The island is packed with restaurants serving every kind of food you can imagine, lively bars, and water sports that keep the energy high. Yet, despite all the buzz, Boracay remains the best place to simply chill and appreciate nature. Its powder‑white sand, soft as flour, never fails to amaze me, and the turquoise waters are a constant reminder of why this island is world‑famous. For me, Boracay is proof that even the busiest destinations can still feel magical — a place where you can party, explore, or just sit quietly and let the sea do its thing.
Boracay: Island and Beach-Hopping Boat Tour with Snorkeling
Boracay: Helmet Diving Experience with Photos and Videos
Boracay: Parasailing, Island Hopping, ATV Ride and Kawa Bath
When I first set foot in Siargao, I felt that famous “Siargao curse” everyone talks about — the island has a way of making you want to stay longer than planned, or promising yourself you’ll come back again and again. It’s not just the surfing at Cloud 9, though sipping coffee while watching the waves roll in is unforgettable; it’s the endless mix of nature, adventure, and cool vibes that makes the island feel alive. From lagoons and rock pools to island hopping and lively cafés, there’s always something new to do, yet it’s just as easy to slow down and soak in the laid‑back energy. Siargao is stunning, vibrant, and ever‑changing, and I know that when I return, it will surprise me all over again — that’s the magic of the curse, you never really leave it behind.
Siargao Tri-Island with Drone & Mermaid Tail
Siargao: Sugba Lagoon, Magpupungko, Maasin River with Lunch
Banaue Batad will always be one of my favorite spots in North Luzon. I’ve been there more than five times, and every visit feels like stepping into a masterpiece carved by nature and history. The cold mountain air, the quiet trails, and the sight of those rice terraces make the trek — though challenging — completely worth it. I remember one trip when we were too tired to push on to Tappiyah Falls, but honestly, just standing there and gazing at the terraces was enough to make my heart full. The view alone makes your eyes happy. If you go between April to June, the terraces are at their greenest and most beautiful, painting the valley in vibrant shades that stay with you long after you leave. Batad is the kind of place that keeps calling me back, a mix of nature, culture, and serenity that never loses its magic.
I was born and raised in Manila, and admittedly I’ll always be a city girl at heart. The capital may be crowded and busy, but it’s also the gateway to almost every adventure in the Philippines. Most foreigners arrive here, spend a night or two, and then fly off to the islands — but Manila itself has so much to offer. While it may not be overflowing with nature, it is incredibly rich in heritage, culture, and history. You can wander through Intramuros, explore Binondo (Chinatown), stroll around Rizal Park, or dive into the city’s countless museums, historical cemeteries, and residential districts. Add in the massive shopping malls, vibrant nightlife, and endless food spots, and you’ll see why Manila is more than just a stopover — it’s a destination worth experiencing.
Manila: Intramuros, Chinatown, and Old Manila Half-Day Tour
And remember — the Philippines has more than 7,000 islands, so this list is just the beginning. It’s basically a lifetime adventure to see them all… but hey, challenge accepted (just kidding… or maybe not 😉). Stay tuned, because more spots are coming soon!