Best Islands in the Philippines: Which One is the Ideal Getaway for You?
The islands of the Philippines are renowned for their powdery white sand beaches and shimmering, jewel-toned waters. However, they offer more than just picturesque shorelines. Adventurers can enjoy extraordinary diving and surfing opportunities, as well as jungle explorations and rich cultural experiences. You can hop between islands, immerse yourself in authentic local life, and meet the friendly inhabitants of these beautiful places. We aim to highlight the best islands in the Philippines for your next escape.
While the larger islands feature better infrastructure and amenities ideal for couples and families, smaller and less touristy islands provide a more genuine getaway experience. There’s undoubtedly a perfect Philippines island waiting for you. According to seasoned travel bloggers, here’s a curated list of some top choices.
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Top Philippine Islands for White Sand Beaches and Turquoise Waters
Boracay
With its stunning gemstone-blue waters, Boracay’s White Beach consistently ranks among the top destinations in the Philippines, and many consider it the best island overall. The island, stretching just seven kilometers, features countless restaurants and a variety of activities to cater to travelers of all ages. Exploring the island on foot is easy, and a short hike to Mount Luho offers breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline.
Each beach on Boracay attracts distinct crowds. Collect seashells on Puka Beach, unwind on Diniwid Beach, kite surf at Bulabog Beach, or snorkel at Tambisaan. For a unique dining experience, seek out a hidden beach that emerges only during low tide. However, most tourists gravitate towards White Beach, renowned for its vibrant entertainment scene and extensive range of activities. You can even take lessons to become a mermaid! As the sun sets, the beach ignites with fire dancers, evening sailing tours, and spectacular sunsets.
Dining is quite affordable, with most meals ranging from $2 to $5 USD. Trying street food is highly recommended to savor authentic Filipino cuisine. A popular dish is skewered chicken; Mang Inasal serves the best Spicy Paa on the island, a flame-grilled chicken thigh accompanied by rice, soy sauce, chili, and a small citrus fruit called kalamansi—a delight!
Don’t miss out on Jonah’s Fruit Shake for their fresh fruit smoothies, located at White Beach Station 1. If you’re searching for one of the best islands to explore in the Philippines, Boracay will not disappoint. Check my guide for the best activities in Boracay.
Contributed by Jillian. Follow her adventures on Adventure Dragon.
Bantayan
Bantayan Island is an underrated paradise in Cebu that radiates a truly relaxing vibe. This is the perfect spot to lounge on the beach and escape life’s stresses. During my brief visit, I enjoyed some of the finest beaches in the Philippines, with stretches of soft white sand and crystalline waters. Bantayan is easily accessible via ferry or private boat from Hagnaya port, just an hour from Cebu City.
In addition to its captivating shores, the island offers unique transportation. Tourists and locals often rely on habal-habal, a motorbike taxi, to get around. You can also hop on a trisikad, the local pedicab, or take a jeepney, an iconic Filipino vehicle widely used by locals.
Bantayan has a variety of accommodations to suit every traveler’s budget. Guesthouses and hotels start at approximately $10-20 USD, while mid-range options hover around $35 USD. You can find luxurious lodgings from $55 USD.
Once you’ve settled in and arranged your mode of transport, set out to explore. Santa Fe is home to Ogtong Cave, a natural underground wonder open for visits at a minimal cost of less than $3 USD. Fishing villages offer a taste of local seafood delicacies, with dried fish and squid being a must-try. While there are plenty of activities to enjoy in Bantayan, a day trip to Virgin Island, another stunning spot, is also a worthwhile excursion for under $10 USD.
Contributed by Ruben & Rachel. Follow their travels on Gamin Traveler.
Kalanggaman
Kalanggaman Island, a tiny gem in Leyte province, is so small that you can walk around its shores in less than 30 minutes. With pristine white sand, crystal-clear waters, and tall coconut palm trees lining its stunning beaches, Kalanggaman is truly a slice of paradise—a breathtaking destination I have encountered in the Philippines.
The main sandbar, where waves from opposite directions converge, offers one of the island’s best photo spots. However, swimming in that area is not advisable due to strong currents.
Due to its size and limited facilities, activities on the island are quite restricted. For snorkeling or diving, you’ll need to bring your own gear or arrange it in advance at the visitor center in Palompon. Boat transfers to Kalanggaman can also be arranged from Palompon. It’s advisable to bring your own food and sufficient water, and remember to take your trash back with you to Palompon.
Daily visitor numbers are capped at 500, so you won’t encounter large crowds here. When I visited, there were only about 10 others aside from our group. The weak mobile signal and absence of power outlets mean you can enjoy a digital detox. Your camera, however, will be kept busy as the scenery is too beautiful to resist! Plus, there are no mosquitoes, so you can leave the repellent at home—but don’t forget the sunblock!
Contributed by Veronika. Follow her on Travel Geekery.
Top Islands in the Philippines for Lush Greenery and Cascading Waterfalls
Bohol
Bohol stands out from the other Philippine islands thanks to its rich jungle experience. While other islands boast pristine beaches, Bohol offers a myriad of jungle adventures, from zip-lining to waterfall climbing. Here are some top attractions to explore in Bohol.
The famed Chocolate Hills are an iconic geological formation reminiscent of a scene from Jumanji. This peculiar landscape owes its name to the lemongrass that turns brown in summer, rendering the hills their signature appearance. You can also encounter the adorable Bohol Tarsiers, small primates with enormous eyes. They are best viewed at the ethical Philippine Tarsier and Wildlife Sanctuary, not at the unofficial tourist traps that exploit them.
Don’t miss the Mother Trees Search, rated one of the top experiences in my life. Locals refer to the special trees that attract fireflies as Mother Trees. To find them, you paddleboard down the Loboc River as night falls; it’s an atmosphere filled with tranquility, surrounded by stars and jungle sounds. When you spot a Mother Tree, it’s like the stars have descended to play among its branches—truly magical!
A delightful spot to stay in the Loboc area is the Fox & The Firefly, featuring charming cottages with outdoor showers, right by the river. This accommodation serves as an excellent base for the Mother Trees search!
Contributed by Slavi. Follow him on Global Castaway.
Cebu
If you seek adventure, Cebu should be on your list of must-visit islands in the Philippines. Regardless of where you stay on the island, a wealth of incredible attractions and activities awaits!
A popular highlight in Cebu is the vibrant sardine run in Moalboal, where millions of sardines gather just off Panagsama Beach. It’s a spectacular sight! Within the vicinity, you’ll find a variety of restaurants, with Cockonuts being the top choice for delicious, budget-friendly meals.
Just a short drive from Moalboal, you can visit the stunning Kawasan Falls, renowned for its turquoise waters and enchanting jungle backdrop—one of the best places for a refreshing swim. But that’s not the only breathtaking waterfall in Cebu! The eight-tiered Aguinid Falls in Samboan is a must-see for adventurous spirits. Here, climbing up the waterfalls to the next tier is part of the experience, allowing you to relish beautiful nature, swim, and leap into natural pools along the way. Tumalog Falls is another towering and awe-inspiring spot to explore. With its stunning sights and exciting activities, Cebu undoubtedly ranks among the best islands in the Philippines.
Contributed by Sam & Natalia. Find them on Something Of Freedom.
Luzon
While Luzon may lack the tropical beaches and diving spots found on other islands, it compensates with its vibrant culture. Although there are notable attractions in and around Manila, the magic truly unfolds in the northern highlands known as the Cordillera.
Forget Bali or Vietnam; these rice terraces rank among the world’s most breathtaking, yet relatively few travelers venture here. The most famous site is Banaue, where visitors can wander through the terraces freely without a guide. After your walk, numerous cafes in town feature expansive balconies, perfect for soaking in the stunning views.
The crown jewel of the Cordillera is Batad, which boasts a remarkable natural amphitheater of rice terraces enveloping you in all directions. You’ll discover ample hiking opportunities through the terraces, leading to waterfalls and hidden spots. The panoramic vistas of the lush green fields will stay in your memory forever.
When you’re done exploring the rice terraces, visit the misty town of Sagada, noted for its hanging coffins. In this region, locals traditionally suspend the coffins of the deceased high up on cliffs, believing this will elevate their spirits closer to heaven. Some coffins even feature chairs for the dearly departed! With a history of headhunting, the town still retains a touch of mysticism.
Up in the northern highlands, a cooler climate allows you to sample heartwarming local dishes like soups and stews. You can base your stay in any of the three towns to explore further, although Batad is easily reached as a day trip from Banaue. Many homestays and guesthouses are available for those seeking a glimpse into local life.
Contributed by Cat & Joe. Follow them on Walk My World.
Sibuyan
During my two-month journey across the Philippines, no other island captivated me quite like Sibuyan. Close to Boracay yet far less touristy, it offers a unique charm. Although it may not have the typical white sand beaches, the island features stunning waterfalls hidden in lush jungles and boasts the cleanest river in the Philippines. If you’re on the lookout for adventure, this is the place to be.
Sibuyan’s rugged coastline primarily consists of rocky shores, but if you desire soft, white-sand beaches lined with palm trees and turquoise waters, you can take a short boat ride to the beautiful Cresta de Gallo Island. Your guesthouse personnel can assist you in arranging a trip there, and you can enjoy a fresh barbecue of fish caught that same day.
Sibuyan is less developed compared to other tourist islands, which means amenities may be limited. While local eateries are available, restaurants are sparse, and it’s best to organize meals through your guesthouse. Be prepared for power outages most nights and unreliable internet connectivity, common in many parts of the Philippines. Despite this, Sibuyan offers an authentic local atmosphere, with warm and welcoming residents, making it a perfect escape for those seeking genuine experiences.
Contributed by Nikki & Michelle. Follow them on Cheeky Passports.
Top Islands in the Philippines for Diving and Surfing Adventures
Malapascua
Malapascua introduced me to the pristine beauty of the Philippines and the warmth of its local culture during a memorable week-long diving trip. This compact island off the northern tip of Cebu can be traversed in a couple of hours.
Accessible via a 3-4 hour drive from Cebu airport followed by a 30-minute ferry ride, Malapascua is an ideal destination if you desire white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, vibrant sunsets, beautiful marine life, and coral reefs, all wrapped up in an authentic island experience.
Home to approximately 4,000 friendly locals, the island has no cars, enhancing its tranquil, remote feeling. Diving in Malapascua is renowned as one of the best experiences in the Philippines, with a high likelihood of spotting thresher sharks. I spotted a stunning array of corals, colorful fish, and diverse marine life while diving.
However, Malapascua is not solely for divers. The island offers various accommodation and dining options suitable for couples and families alike. My stay at the Tepanee Resort exceeded typical diver lodgings. Throughout my week, I enjoyed a range of culinary offerings, from Filipino to Thai and Italian cuisine. The island features a blend of upscale Western and locally run restaurants and bars.
Contributed by Shweta. Visit her blog Zest In A Tote.
Apo Island
Apo Island is a tiny landmass located in front of Negros Island, covering just 1.5 square kilometers and home to around 1,000 friendly residents who happily welcome visitors. Daily life often runs without electricity, and accommodations are basic, but the island is enveloped in lush greenery and the stunning sea.
Many travelers come to Apo for its exceptional diving experiences. The island hosts one of the Philippines’ most beautiful coral reefs, making it easy to see marine creatures like turtles, especially if you opt for snorkeling, as they are drawn to the shaded waters. For non-divers, there is a 230-step ascent to a viewpoint on a mountain, famous for its mesmerizing sunrises.
Liberty Resort is the top place to eat, offering a reasonable selection of dishes. Nearby, you’ll find a local spot that grills food on certain nights. Exploring the town and chatting with locals will highlight the genuine friendliness of the community.
To reach Apo Island, take a bus from Dumaguete heading south. Alert the driver when to disembark, and you’ll find yourself near the port, where local fishermen are always ready to take you across to Apo for a small fee. Watch your belongings; if the waves are high, you’re likely to get wet, but the adventure is well worth it!
Contributed by Ale & Jona. Follow them on Universo Viajero.
Siargao Island
When people seek recommendations for must-visit destinations in the Philippines, Siargao often lands in my top three. Located in Surigao del Norte in the southern region, Siargao is a laid-back haven ideal for beach lovers, surfers, or those wishing to explore hidden lagoons and caves.
For surfers, Cloud 9 is the ultimate spot to rent boards or secure a guide to learn the basics. While there are various surf breaks throughout Siargao, Cloud 9 stands out as the most popular. Don’t surf? It’s still a fantastic place to relax under the sun!
For island hopping, plan a day trip to Naked Island, Daku Island, and Guyam Island. These locations promise beautiful white-sand beaches and sapphire waters. If time permits, venture to Sohoton Cove in Bucas Grande, a pristine labyrinth of islets and lagoons where you can explore clear waters, undersea caves, and a lake filled with stingless jellyfish.
The culinary scene offers many options, featuring authentic Filipino dishes and fresh seafood. Siargao caters to various budgets, with a mix of homestays, hostels, hotels, and resort amenities. My stays at both an island resort and a budget hotel were delightful. Ultimately, Siargao fascinates me for its relaxed atmosphere and natural beauty.
Contributed by Katherine & Hali. Follow them on Tara Lets Anywhere.
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