Lampinigan Island, Basilan

Despite its dangerous reputation, a remote island in Basilan earns

. Basilan has many potential tourist destinations that remain pristine. The presence of rebels in the province somehow helps in preserving the virginity of most areas, but sadly, not everyone can see the bright side of Basilan…  quick 1-hour stay at Lampinigan was all worth of time, money, and effort considering the fact that you could have been possibly observed by militants while we were on the island. Felt secure in the duration of our visit, thanks to the armed guys who were there.

White Island (Medan Island), Camiguin

White Island (locally known as Medano Islet or Medan Island) lies just 1.4 km, about 10 minutes, off the coast of Mambajao. It is Camiguin’s most popular tourist attraction. Some of the finest white sand you’ll ever see makes up this glittery bend. A naked island, it is uninhabited — no houses, no huts, no trees — but umbrellas are available for rent.

White Island is so beautiful and picturesque, every corner is worth taking a photo. Even planned to stay in the island until dusk hoping that we will capture the majestic sunset.

Patar Beach, Pangasinan

This jaw-dropping sunset is truly magical .The place was not yet developed during this visit, making his stay very laid-back.No loud music, only waves. No screaming, only whistles from the leaves of trees. I’ve been to this place three times and still hoping to go back. I find this beach as my perfect hideout whenever I’m tired and stressed from the hassles of city life. In Patar, you can also visit the lighthouse, the Rock View, and lagoons inside a cave.

Salagdoong Beach, Siquijor

For some people, Siquijor is almost synonymous to witchcraft and mysticism. But anyone who has been to the Island of Fire will tell you, if there’s something this place should be known for — its sheer, natural beauty. Beaches, for example, are spectacular in Siquijor. 

Cradled in the town of Maria, it is managed by the Provincial Tourism Office. Despite being a public beach, it is still clean and well-maintained. Kudos to the local government of Siquijor!

Sun rays torridly kissed our skin as we explored the public beach. Although in my opinion, the beach would look more quaint if it remained as it is. But still, the beauty of Salagdoong Beach is still there – well maintained and the locals are disciplined as well.

Dahican Beach, Davao Oriental

From surfing in Catanduanes to skimboarding in Davao Oriental! This seven-kilometer cove is the sparkling gem of Mati, Davao Oriental. Popular among the wave-riding crowd, it is being groomed as the skimboarding capital. “Time was like a blur as if moments are passing by gracefully, with an after-stroke from a master painter, From the blue skies to the crystal clear waters, even to the movements of the skimboarders who are otherwise known as the Amihan Boys, you could sense a feeling of calm.”

Dahican means “to come in from the sea.” The name was given to this beach for the pawikan, Hawksbills and Olive Ridleys, that emerge from the sea and climb up to the shore to lay eggs. If you’re Dahican-bound, make sure to not disturb these gentle creatures when you’re there.

Puraran Beach, Catanduanes

Facing the mighty and unforgiving Pacific, Puraran Beach is a topnotch surfing site. Located in the town of Baras, Catanduanes, the options to get here by air is quite limited. But those who go out of their mainstream way to get here are greeted with a delightful and highly exhilarating mini-slaps from the ocean.

“It is home to the so-called majestic waves,” Mervz notes.  “Stunning landscape of golden sand beach, clean and clear waters, marvelous rock formations, and views of mountains and the bay welcomed us. It’s quite hot during that time as the sun rose higher but the strong wind blowing from the ocean kept us cool.”  

Kalanggaman Island, Leyte

If you love sandbars, you will fall head over heels for Kalanggaman Island. This barely touched paradise has enjoyed a lot of attention in recent years as more and more beach-chasers discover its postcard-perfect allure. Sinjin Pineda can’t help but agree. “With talcum white sand bars extending to both sides, Kalanggaman Island is a paradise. Its pristine waters and almost lake-like placidness make it perfect for swimming, kayaking and snorkeling.” The other side of the island has stronger waves and more sea-like attitude.

And the sandbars! Both ends of this long island are fringed with a sandbar reaching out to the blues. Warning, though: some parts slope so steeply.

Matukad Island

While Biri Island is my personal choice, PhilippineBeaches.org’s co-founder Vins Carlos sticks to the classic ivory-laced, sapphire-soaked shores!  His pick — Matukad Island in Caramoan. But like Biri, it is specked with breathtaking rock formations. “In between these giant rocks are patches of powdery white sand that is sure to delight beach lovers. The island also harbors a small hidden lake.”

Biri Island, Northern Samar

We all have a picture of the perfect beach paradise — azure water, gentle waves, white sand. Most of the country’s most popular beaches have all three. The northern coast of Biri Island is not one of them.

The waves here don’t roll; they ravage. “Every punching wave is a stroke of art and every gusty storm is a painful dash of necessary sacrifice — the torture in art, the beauty in chaos,” I described it on The Poor Traveler blog. The result: six staggering rock formations, masterfully sculpted by nature, that intimidate not just with their immensity but, more importantly, their splendor.

Bolobadiangan Island, Iloilo

Like with Anguib, it looks like seclusion is what also made Ron fall in love with Bolobadiangan Island. This off-the-beaten-track destination in Concepcion, Iloilo makes an ideal setting for Survivor make-believe. The sand is not as fine as boracay, sunset is not as majestic as Manila Bay, but the rustic feel, the isolation and the solemnity of the setting made the trip so intimate.

Hmmm… Intimate! Now you’re paying attention. We rented the whole sandbar, prepared meals by ourselves, and slept on a hammock, Not what you’re thinking, apparently.

Calaguas, Camarines Norte

Freckling the waters off the coast of Vinzons, Camarines Norte, the Calaguas group of islands hide pretty little secrets. In recent years, however, they are discovered by more and more beach chasers, who easily fall in love with the place.  Mahabang Buhangin in Tinaga Island, the biggest in the group.

Mahabang Buhangin is a picture perfect paradise with its long stretch of fine white sand dotted with volcanic rocks on its both ends. The place is the most frequented camping and swimming site by tourists.

Anguib Beach, Cagayan

Forget Boracay, dear beach bummers, . If you are after pristine turquoise waters and powdery white sand with the total seclusion that the former doesn’t have, then you can find the same paradise in the northernmost tip of mainland Luzon.

It looks like rough roads lead to the best beaches. Anguib Beach may be in Luzon but it is on the far end of it, around 12 hours away if you’re taking the bus from Manila. But Anguib’s remoteness is what makes it extra special. The usual delights are there: fine sand and clear water but its real charm is its very quiet atmosphere and the feeling that you own every bit of it.

Bantayan island Cebu

The blade-shaped province of Cebu is rich in historical sites and grand churches but it is also teeming with natural resources. Its coasts and outlying islands cradle pockets of white sand. Bantayan Island, off its northern tip, is dumped with some of the finest! Brenna puts this tropical paradise on the top of her list.

Less crowded and less busy than the other famous island destinations in the country, Bantayan Island is perfect for those who chase beaches for a time of relaxation and reflection.

Coron Island fame

Part of the famed Palawan province in the Philippines is the Coron Island, an island famous for its wreck diving destinations, bizarre marine animals, steep cliffs, and emerald waters.

In Coron Island, people can snorkel or dive to see the 12 huge intact ships that sank in the area during the height of World War II.

These were Japanese ships that docked in the Philippines to channel supplies to the occupying Japanese troops.

They were, however, sunk in a blitzkrieg staged by the US forces.

Coron Island is also famous for its reefs, with hundreds kinds of fish finding sanctuaries in this place.

Island time on Apo

About 20 kilometers from the province of Negros Oriental in the Philippines is the 72-hectareApo Island, a pristine, protected, and pastoral island that is famous for its snorkeling, scuba diving, and deep sea diving sites.

Apo Island is surrounded by calm waters and striking coral formations, making it a breeding ground for marine life and therefore a first-rate destination for marine activities.

Around the island, divers and snorkelers can encounter as many as 650 fish species and marvel at as many as 400 types of corals.

The scenery in the island itself is simply bucolic.

White sand beaches line the edges of Apo Island and people, mostly fishermen and their families, lead unhurried lives.

Batanes Islands

The smallest province in the Philippines – Batanes Islands – also has one of the most enchanting landscapes in the country.

Windswept and separated from the whole of the Philippines by wide, rough waters, Batanes Islands features gently sloping hills, sudden cliffs, seemingly bottomless canyons, and rugged shores dotted with boulders.

Its houses are bare yet robust, with thick walls and thatched roofs that are ready to withstand to the strong, destructive typhoons that frequently pass through the province.

In this timeless place, visitors can hop from one island to another, swim in the cool waters, admire the scenic villages, go fishing, and simply be one with nature.

Hundred Islands National Park

Found in Alaminos City in the province of Pangasinan is the Hundred Islands, a group of two million-year old islands scattered across the Lingayen Gulf.

There are about 124 islands in Hundred Islands during low tide.

At high tide, one island submerges and so the count becomes 123.

These islands were once corals in an ancient sea bed that has become exposed over time.

Each island offers an opportunity for exploration, with its exotic flora and fauna.

Mactan Island

Mactan Island is located in Cebu Province. It is considered the most densely populated island in the Philippines because it is home to 430 000 people. It boasts many tourists spots and attractions. As a coral island, Mactan offers rich marine biodiversity which is good for diving and snorkeling. Island hopping is also recommended since the island is composed of numerous islets, water sports activity is also popular for leisure and entertainment. These includes jet skiing, sailing and para-sailing. Cultural activities are also found in the island.

The only Aquarium attraction in the Visayas region can also be found only here.

Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte

Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte is often referred to as The Boracay of the North because of its fine white sands,numerous water activities (for those who are checked in some private resorts) and of course crystal blue waters...It is a simple municipality. No ATMs, and no malls. Along the way to Pagudpud, there are also numerous attractions such as the Patapat viaduct. Although there is a bus going there directly from Manila, most tourists prefer car rentals in getting there because there is no other means of transport aside from the tricycles found in the area.

The Blue Lagoon is now becoming more famous because of its secluded beach and not many tourists go there.

Beautiful island of Panglao, Bohol

Located in Bohol island, it is a lot like Boracay with all the fine white sands that it has and crystal clear blue waters. The diving spots around the island are also among the best in the Philippines. Marine species are also abundant in the island. It contains about 250 species of crustaceans and 2500 species of mollusks which are newly discovered. Such discovery was initiated by Panglao Marine Biodiversity Project who discovered that Panglao Island has more marine species and biodiversity than Japan and Mediterranean sea combined. Currently, Panglao island is being developed and soon the government will start the project on building an airport to boost the island's tourism further.

Samal's Pride: Pearl Farm Beach Resort

Pearl Farm Beach Resort in Samal Island, Davao del Norte is a wonderland that you shouldn’t miss during your trip in Davao City. Its iconic three-layered hut called “Parola” together with the long stretch of its grandiose Maranao themed huts looks spectacular from afar. The resort’s exceptionally artistic theme is a product of the creative mind of the renowned architect Francisco Mañosa. A visit here gives you not just one but seven white sand beaches to enjoy.

Pearl Farm Beach Resort has an exclusive wharf in Davao City with ferries going to their Samal Island resort. This wharf has a reception area which looks like a small hotel which has its own swimming pool and souvenir shop.

Siargao Island adventures

This place is another surfers dream. The place offers you waves that can curl up to 12 feet high. Aside from the waves, the place also has beaches that still remains unspoiled by urban lifestyle. the Surfing Capital of the Philippines, boasts of world-class surf waves, From heavy barrels to easy beginners spots. The most popular break, known as “Cloud 9” is located in the town of General Luna where the annual international surfing competition is held in September for men and May for women.

Siargao, located in the province of Surigao del Norte, is renowned for its curling waves that soar from nine to twelve feet high. It is frequented by surfers from all over the world. Besides surfing, the island of Siargao is well-known for its unspoiled beaches and its rural charm.

 Siargao Island is one of the islands of the province of Surigao del Norte, 800 km away from Manila. It is proximate to the Philippine Deep, which is 10,700 meters below sea level, considered the deepest part of the trench And the second deepest abyss in the world.

Siargao is generally a safe place to go in vacation. It’s (like most of the Philippine) considered Malaria free. Dengue instead, even though very very rare, can be present during the wet season. Rage disease could be present even if it ‘s sevaral years there are no reported cases, be careful of dogs and bats. Do not drink tap water even if locals do so.

The thing you have to be more careful about is reef cuts. They get infected very easy. Always disinfect well the wound.

 Locals in Siargao are amazing, actually almost too much gentle. Normally always smiling and friendly. But do not try to drop them in or snake on them, they will keep you on your toes… Many fight happened with undisciplined foreigner  try take advantage of the locals kindness. Just respect the ocean rules and the locals.

Sometimes crowd in Siargao can be a concern (not like Bali of course). Cloud 9 (the most crowded always…) Rock Island, Stimpies and Dako could be quite crowded. But there are many many other spots with virtually no to low crowd pressure… Just use your exploration spirit and don’t go surf to the most accessible surf spot and you will find the waves of your lift. Or hire a local surf guide he will know where to bring you.

The Naked Island of Camiguin

Camiguin, an island province off the coast of northern Mindanao, is home to at least four volcanoes. Remnants of recent eruptions can be easily observed throughout the island - from the black sand beaches that encircle its rounded coast, to a number of jagged volcanic outcrops which dominate its peaks. But things seem to be at peace when I started walking outside Benoni Port looking for a jeepney to Mambajao, the capital town. Locals love to smile and many perform sign of the cross whenever the passenger jeepney pass by churches; it must be an island bounded by faith.

The palce has been known to be one of the most beautiful places in the Philippines because it still seems like a paradise. Some people even consider the palce the “Garden of Eden” in the country. Camiguin has a great topography that includes waterfalls, and the hot and cold springs. The place will be mesmerizing and will definitely tempt you to go back.

Unwinding at Dakak beach in Zamboanga

This renowned Dakak Beach front is usually quite a few regarded because of its stunning shaped fresh in addition to powdery light mud, and since virtually any going Mecca together to Mindanao. Excellent fruit wealthy oceans, large chuck themselves internet sites in conjunction with good higher level of barrier reefs, and a good sundown scope defines this type of warm Eden.

Dakak Park your automobile in addition to Beach resort functions 15 hectares associated with wooded area, the all-natural tank regarding community services in addition to domestic pets, and a 750-meter exceptional white-sand coastline.

On the sign associated with Northern Zamboanga, Dakak faces this Sulu Ocean in the western world and is particularly encased simply by slopes inside it can be distance spot. Dakak respectfully eliminates this typhoon belt, making it the best all-season holiday spot.

Zamboanga Del Norte right now is usually either renowned regarding Dakak Beach front, this province’s main 100 % pure captivation. Excellent fruit wealthy oceans, large chuck themselves internet sites using a cash associated with barrier reefs, and an outstanding sundown horizon separates this type of warm Eden.

In Dipolog and that is regarding 2hour occasion simply by venting through Manila, you could experience the elegance associated with Dakak to select from out and about barrier reefs while you technical scuba diving chuck themselves together with fantastic really clear wealthy oceans. What’s more, this option that comes with good light mud in addition to encased simply by glamorous blooms in addition to coconut hands.

Diving scuba together with Dakak is actually very best of the several weeks associated with the March until eventually Sept.

Dakak chuck themselves internet sites inside coastline hotel offer you a variety of surroundings through intensifying slopes to barrier thickets, top for you to underside areas in addition to caves. Ship existing is usually reported.

Matabungkay Beach Resort

“Been there, done that“, is probably a statement you wouldn’t hear from seasoned travelers. A real traveler looks at a destination with a different perspective with less expectation and they pretty much look for an entirely different experience. When exploring new paths, I seek for something new to learn by talking to locals to know more about their culture and help me re-discover the destinations old glory.
Much like food, a better way to appreciate it is to know its basic recipe and know how an heirloom recipe was passed on from one generation to another.

Set against a backdrop of the beautiful exclusive Beach that is away from beach vendors, Matabungkay Beach Hotel is a unique tropical haven, offering a wide range of fun and leisure facilities. The perfect blend of 3 star resort amenities with the extraordinary beauty of the natural garden landscape covered by century old trees, together with friendly and famous filipino hospitality, ensure that the Matabungkay Beach Hotel experience really is a sensational indulgence.

White Beach of Puerto Galera

Puerto Galera is a soothing vision of shimmering seas surrounded by lush mountains. It is considered one of the most beautiful and developed beach resort community in the country.

Starting from "backyard tourism" wherein local residents accept local and foreign tourist as stay-in guest, the island’s tourism has flourished. In the course of time, several hotels, resorts, inns and restaurants have mushroomed within the area.

There are a thousand things one can do here. Landlubbers can pitch tents, light bonfires, play volleyball, toss a Frisbee, go beach-hopping, watch the sunset, gaze at the stars, hike, go rock climbing, carom off on a motorcycle, discover Oriental Mindoro’s other tourist spots or simply live it up.

But water is certainly the main attraction of the island. Crystal clear and shimmering especially during the hot summer months, the sea framing Puerto Galera is ideal for swimming, sailing, surfing, snorkeling and scuba diving. In fact one doesn’t have to go by boat to get to a dive site. Within a kilometer from the coast, schools of Moorish idols, trumpet fish, frog fish, lion fish and leaf fish weave in and out of thriving corals and sea anemones while species of starfish – from the speckled red-and-white to the neon-blue Pacific – rest on the sandy floor.

Caramoan Escapade

The Caramoan Peninsula is the northernmost part of the province of Camarines Sur in the Bicol Region. It is one of the famous tourist destinations in the Philippines which is noted by its several islands that are an escape from the urban lifestyle as it is far away from the buzzing city. The islands are located at the edge of the Pacific Ocean and each of the island has its own beauty and characteristic which would surely amaze beach bums, island hoppers, and even trekkers. This article features great things to do in the Caramoan and how to get to this town.

The Caramoan peninsula is mountainous while the Caramoan town is only a small portion of the peninsula itself that is located on a valley between these mountains. North of the town are 10 major islets that make the town a center of tourism as the islands are noted for its serenity and far from urbanization.

Subic Tourism

Originally from the term “Hubek”, which was later on Americanized to its name today, Subic is known to be a top playground for sports and extreme adventures. Caressing the sublime Subic Bay, this is a place where visitors can go parasailing, yachting, kayaking, scuba diving and jet-skiing while still being able to go trekking, camping, go-kart racing and horseback riding. All these exciting activities allow Subic visitors to experience great adventures both in water and on land.

Subic is also popularly known for its culture and cuisine with coffee shops and popular restaurants such as Xtremely Xpresso, Gerry’s Grill, Meat Plus and A Tavola. However, your Subic adventure doesn’t end when the sun sets. A Subic trip is definitely not complete without sampling the nightlife filled with great food, live bands and a lot of partying. Since Subic is but a short 2-hour drive from Metro Manila, it has become a favorite weekend getaway of those living in the city.

But Subic is much more than an easy weekend escape. Surprisingly, the place has a lot of history. It was once the location of the American Naval Base. The area has always been eyed as a naval port since the Spanish colonization. During the American control, the bay was converted into a repair station during the events of World War II. After the war, Subic was returned to the Philippines and converted into a free port and commercial zone.

Today, Subic is filled with both modern conveniences and wild nature. With paved winding roads that lead to the ancient forest just beside the abandoned American barracks, Subic is certainly a site to behold. Finding accommodations won’t be a problem since lodgings can be just right for a backpacker’s budget and can be perfect for those who want to splurge. With Subic being a huge playground of eco-wilderness, industrial parks, great resorts and a glorious beach all together, visitors are in for one memorable trip.

Unspoiled paradise on Earth: El Nido Palawan

To say that the tropical paradise that is El Nido, Philippines is spectacularly beautiful would be scratching the surface. Characteristic of the country's final frontier Palawan, El Nido has numerous limestone karts islands with white, sandy beaches, surrounded by pristine turquoise waters and rich coral reefs. It is personally one of the most beautiful places I have seen, not just in the Philippines but in Asia. There were several travel highlights in my week-long trip to El Nido, Philippines, including seeing the iconic picture of paradise, the Big Lagoon, and climbing to a viewing deck above Matinloc Island to see the calm waters of Tapiutan Strait.

El Nido, Philippines is spectacularly beautiful largely because it remains remote. For most people, the only way to access it is via Palawan's capital Puerto Princesa, which has its own domestic airport. El Nido has an airport, too, but only (expensive) charter flights use it. The town of El Nido itself is small, comprised only by a few housing blocks on the shores of Bacuit Bay. Tourism here only caters to a small number of independent backpackers and an even smaller number of high-end luxury travelers.

All these make El Nido, Philippines a bit tricky to travel to. Thankfully, there are a number of great resources online, especially from Pinoy travel blogs, about traveling to El Nido. Here is a guide to traveling to El Nido, Philippines based on my own experience with links on the great online resources I found.

Boracay: The Ultimate Tropical Island

Boracay is a tiny island in the Visayas region of the central Philippines. As the most popular travel destination in the Philippines, it’s far from undiscovered — the island absolutely teems with tourists, especially Filipinos, Koreans, and Chinese.

White Beach is the main hub of the island, stretching along the west coast, and it’s often cited as one of the world’s best beaches. And with a beach path running parallel to the shore, you could spend your whole stay on Boracay on sand — I know I nearly did!

White Beach is divided into three sections named after the former boat stations: Station 1, furthest north, is home to luxury resorts. Station 2, in the middle, is a huge commercial hub and home to tons of shops, restaurants, and hotels, as well as DMall, a massive shopping complex.

Station 3, furthest south, is much quieter and more relaxed. Just south of Station 3 is Angol, an even more chilled out neighborhood. Some people say that Angol is the only remnant of the “Old Boracay” before it got so developed.

There are a few other beaches — Bulabog Beach in the east is popular with the kitesurfing/windsurfing crowd in high season, and secluded Puka Beach in the north is a big day trip destination.

As for me, I loved the Station 3/Angol region and spent the bulk of my time there, but would often head up to Station 2 for dinner and drinks.