Top 10 Best Travel Destinations in The Philippines (2024)
Are you planning a trip to the Philippines?
This post details the top 10 best places to visit in the Philippines to help you plan an unforgettable trip.
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An archipelago of over 7000 islands, the Philippines is paradise on earth.
From crystal-clear waters and powdery white beaches to towering rice terraces and hidden jungle waterfalls, the Philippines offers one of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world.
With so many extraordinary and unique islands, planning a trip to the Philippines is no easy task.
Having spent two months in the Philippines, I understand first-hand how overwhelming it can be trying to decide which destinations to visit.
Including popular tourist destinations and some more off-the-beaten-path spots, this list showcases the very best places to visit in the Philippines.
Whether you’re a beach bum, nature lover, party animal, or thrill-seeker, this list includes something for every type of traveler.
If you’re looking to seriously plan your tropical adventure, you can check out my 1-month Philippines itinerary & backpacking route here.
This post will detail the top 10 best travel destinations in the Philippines.
Moalboal
Moalboal is widely known as Cebu’s diving capital and is one of the best places to visit in the Philippines.
Panagsama Beach is home to the second-largest sardine run in the world. Just meters from the shoreline, you can witness this natural phenomenon all year round.
Furthermore, nearby Pescador Island is the perfect spot for divers and snorkelers. It is a hotspot for abundant marine life and you are likely to see turtles grazing in their natural habitat.
Full Post: Pescador Island Moalboal: The Ultimate Snorkeling & Diving Guide
In more recent years, adventure lovers have been flocking to Moalboal to fling themselves into the striking azure-blue waters of Kawasan Falls.
An unforgettable day canyoneering is the best way to explore one of the most famous waterfalls in the country. It is a must-do activity on any Philippines itinerary.
If you’re short on time, check out this combined 1- day Moalboal Island Hopping & Kawasan Falls Canyoneering Tour.
Must Read: 10 Essential Things To Know BEFORE Kawasan Falls Canyoneering
This once-sleepy coastal village therefore attracts a vibrant mix of environmental enthusiasts, thrill-seekers, and recreational divers to its shores.
The result is a buzzing nightlife scene, many trendy cafes, delicious restaurants, and a lively backpacker vibe.
This is therefore a great destination to visit in the Philippines for those looking to meet like-minded travelers, explore the underwater world, and have some adrenaline-fuelled fun.
Related: How To Spend 1-3 Days in Moalboal: Ultimate Itinerary
The ultimate social hostel for backpackers.
Amazing communal areas, activities, and parties. Perfect location minutes from the beach.
Spacious comfortable dorms and private rooms available.
Camiguin
Camiguin is known as the Island Born of Fire, for its majestic volcanos that dominate the landscape.
The second-smallest island in the Philippines, Camiguin is a more up-and-coming destination and does not yet attract hoards of tourists.
Related: ULTIMATE CAMIGUIN TRAVEL GUIDE: Budget & Itinerary
The volcanos have not only contributed to the island’s rich and turbulent history but have led to the creation of many natural wonders unparalleled in the Philippines.
Whether you’re a beach bum, a history fanatic, or a nature lover, Camiguin is one of the most unique places to visit in the Philippines.
Check out the main Camiguin highlights with this 1-day Camiguin Tour.
The seven volcanos create a unique landscape of towering waterfalls, black-sand beaches, and steaming hot springs.
Lovers of hiking also cannot miss the opportunity to conquer Mt. Hibok Hibok.
Must Read: Katibawasan Falls Camiguin: EVERYTHING You Need To Know
Many Camiguin tourist spots act as a living testament to the island’s volcanic past.
The opportunity to dive at the Sunken Cemetery (plunged underwater during an eruption), or explore the Old Church Ruins (miraculously survived the eruption) is an opportunity lovers of history cannot miss.
Two paradisical white-sand islands surround Camiguin. White Island is a pristine sandbar with an impressive volcanic backdrop.
Mantigue Island is a Maldives-esque island and marine sanctuary. It offers some of the best snorkeling in the whole of the Philippines.
Full Post: Mantigue Island Nature Park Camiguin: A Complete Guide
The local government’s emphasis on eco-tourism and conservation is a breath of fresh air in the modern world. This is one of the best places to visit in the Philippines.
Full Post: 13 Must-Visit Tourist Spots & Things To Do in Camiguin
Enjoy sunrise and sunset each day from these bamboo beachfront cottages.
Located in the heart of Mambajao, each cottage comes with a balcony and is just steps away a private black-sand beach.
Siquijor
Another one of the best travel destinations in the Philippines is Siquijor.
Famed as a mystical island, Siquijor is widely known for its fascinating history of witchcraft and healing practices.
In more recent years, Siquijor has been growing as a popular destination. It is perfect for those looking to get off the beaten path and connect with nature.
If you’re short on time, check out this Siquijor Day Trip From Dumaguete.
Must Read: ULTIMATE SIQUIJOR TRAVEL GUIDE: Budget & Itinerary
Siquijor’s laidback vibe, untamed natural beauty, lack of tourists, and commitment to environmental conservation make this a unique yet refreshing island to visit in the Philippines.
Waterfall hopping is one of the best things to do in Siquijor.
From striking Instagram-worthy Cambugahay Falls to lesser-known jungle cascades like Lugnason Falls, there is something hiding around every corner.
Full Post: Top 5 BEST Waterfalls in Siquijor: The Ultimate Guide
As well as stunning white-sand beaches around the island, Siquijor is known for its marine sanctuaries and vibrant coral reefs perfect for snorkeling.
From enchanted trees and mystical healers to hidden caves and old churches, Siquijor stands as a testament to the Philippines’ rich history and diverse culture.
Related: Top 13 BEST Things To Do in Siquijor
Siquijor certainly remains an up-and-coming destination. It boasts a vibrant food scene but most restaurants close by 9:00 PM. You will also not find any nightlife.
Generally, the WiFi is unreliable. There are few organised tours and public transport is virtually non-existent.
However, Siquijor is one of the best places to visit in the Philippines for those looking to disconnect and spend a wholesome few days in nature.
Related: How To Spend 3 Days in Siquijor: Ultimate DIY Itinerary
Embrace jungle living and surround yourself with nature in these rustic treehouses.
Stay near all the main Siquijor tourist spots and enjoy your breakfast to the sounds of birds from your private balcony.
Apo Island
Known for its rich marine life and biodiversity, Apo Island is one of the best snorkel and dive sites in the world.
After noticing a decline in fish stocks, local fishermen began a community-led initiative to protect the marine ecosystem. The result is the Apo Island Marine Sanctuary.
This ecotourism site has not only boosted the biodiversity of fish and corals but has become crucial to the livelihoods of the locals.
This heartwarming success story makes this a great place to visit in the Philippines for environmental enthusiasts and lovers of the underwater world.
This is one of the best places to witness and swim with sea turtles in the Philippines.
Must Read: Apo Island Tour From Siquijor: The Ultimate Guide
We were lucky to see 7 green sea turtles when snorkeling, as well as vibrant coral and other marine species.
A quaint little fishing village, you can also spend some time browsing the local markets. There is also a short hike to a stunning viewpoint overlooking the whole island.
Whilst you can stay a night on the island, I would highly recommend the Apo Island day trip from Siquijor with Cocogrove Resort.
This is one of the best day trips we took in the Philippines. The price includes transport on Cocogrove’s private yacht, as well as a buffet lunch on a private beach.
Bohol
Bohol is one of the most popular destinations to visit in the Philippines.
Tourists flock here to witness wide-eyed mammals in their natural habitat and marvel at Bohol’s mystifying Chocolate Hills.
Full Post: Ultimate DIY Guide To Bohol’s Chocolate Hills
With so many fun adventure activities, from ATV rides to ziplining, this is a great place to visit in the Philippines with family.
The tourist hub Panglao in the west is home to buzzing nightlife and stunning white-sand beaches. It is a great base for island hopping tours.
If you prefer to book in advance, check out this best-selling Bohol Countryside Tour
However, the reason Bohol features on this list is not because of these popular tourist attractions.
Whilst the western side of Bohol feels catered towards tourism, the eastern side is a hidden gem waiting to be explored and offers one of the most unique natural landscapes in the country.
The vibrant green rolling hills of Alicia Panoramic Park are perfect for nature lovers and hikers looking to get off the beaten path.
Full Post: The BEST Guide To Alicia Panoramic Park Bohol
The countryside of Bohol offers impressive waterfalls and towering rice terraces. The breathtaking landscape feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of Panglao.
Related: Can-Umantad Falls Bohol: EVERYTHING You Need To Know
The eastern side of the island also offers a more authentic glimpse into local life. Expect to see locals drying rice in the sun, cockerels as an alarm clock, and friendly children waving to you as you drive past.
Whilst you cannot miss the popular tourist spots, the untouched beauty and authenticity of eastern Bohol is why it deserves a place on this list.
Must Read: Ultimate DIY Tour in Bohol: 4-Day Itinerary
Authentically experience Bohol and immerse yourself in nature.
Stay in the countryside just 5 minutes from the iconic Chocolate Hills in your own private bungalow.
Siargao
Widely known as the surfing capital of the Philippines, Siargao’s breathtaking waves attract surfers from all over the world.
However, in recent years, Siargao has become a must-visit destination for all types of travelers captivated by the island’s rustic charm and slower pace of life.
Must Read: ULTIMATE SIARGAO TRAVEL GUIDE: Budget & Itinerary
Siargao is absolutely covered in coconut trees and exploring by land showcases the island’s rugged natural beauty.
Whether you prefer to beach bum or fancy catching some waves, you will find some of the most stunning white-sand beaches in the Philippines.
Full Post: Top 7 Must-Visit Beaches in Siargao
The best thing about Siargao is the amount of extraordinary day trips on offer.
Whether you’re interested in the unique rolling hills of Sugba Lagoon, island hopping, or swimming with stingless jellyfish at Sohoton Cove, there is something to keep even the most adventurous entertained.
Related: 17 Unique Things To Do in Siargao For Non-Surfers
Siargao has a back-to-basics tropical island feel. Whilst there are many world-class resorts, generally, come prepared for patchy WiFi, cold showers, and the occasional downpour.
Siargao boasts one of the most unique nightlife scenes in the Philippines. As well as live music, pub quizzes, and happy hour, there is a party every night and the day of the week determines the venue.
You will also find a vibrant food scene, tons of trendy cafes, and an overall lively atmosphere perfect for meeting fellow backpackers.
Must Read: How To Spend 3-5 Days in Siargao: Ultimate DIY Itinerary
Stay in a rustic private bungalow in the heart of General Luna.
Embrace the tropical island vibes with hammocks, an outdoor bamboo shower, and an amazing surf school.
Port Barton
Another one of the best places to visit in the Philippines is Port Barton.
A sleepy beach town located on Palawan’s western coast, Port Barton has not yet experienced an influx of tourism like its more popular northern neighbors.
Must Read: ULTIMATE PORT BARTON TRAVEL GUIDE: Budget & Itinerary
The town remains pretty underdeveloped and the natural surroundings remain untouched and pristine.
Visiting Port Barton provides an authentic glimpse into a stunning destination net yet overrun with tourism.
Whilst paradisical beaches are not uncommon in the Philippines, sharing them with hoards of tourists tends to overshadow their beauty.
Port Barton is like a breath of fresh air in this sense and is home to breathtaking beaches absent of tourists. As all are west-facing, you will also catch an extraordinary sunset each night.
Related: White Beach Port Barton: EVERYTHING You Need To Know
Island hopping is the most popular activity in Port Barton. Fewer tourists equate to a more authentic experience and higher chances of seeing marine life and thriving corals.
Port Barton is also home to Palawan’s only Street Dog Sanctuary, well worth a visit for those searching for a more meaningful trip.
Suggested: Top 9 BEST Things To Do in Port Barton
The tourist infrastructure in Port Barton is lacking. This is certainly not the destination for the luxury traveler and you can expect bad WiFi, dirt tracks, and a small-town vibe.
That being said, as Port Barton grows in popularity, more hotels, restaurants, and bars are popping up each year. It now boasts a (surprisingly) lively nightlife scene.
Full Post: Where To Eat: Top 9 BEST Port Barton Restaurants
Port Barton is one of the best places to go in the Philippines for a slow-paced few days of beach bumming before visiting the tourist playgrounds in the north.
Stay in the heart of Port Barton right next to the beach. Private rooms with good wifi and hot showers.
Shared kitchen and lounge area. Free water and tea/coffee, as well as board games, a dart board, and free use of the kayak.
El Nido
El Nido is quite possibly the most popular destination for travelers visiting the Philippines, and for good reason.
The surrounding Bacuit Bay is home to thousands of pristine islands. Tourists flock to El Nido for island hopping tours to explore the area’s mesmerizing beauty.
Staggering limestone cliffs, crystal-clear lagoons, turquoise waters, and hidden white-sand beaches, El Nido is nothing short of paradise.
The surrounding area is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Philippines. The limestone cliffs dominate the landscape and provide the perfect backdrop for tropical relaxation.
Full Post: Top 5 Most Beautiful Beaches in El Nido
If you want to appreciate El Nido’s beauty from a different perspective, you have to give the Taraw Cliff Canopy Walk a go. After a short hike, you are rewarded with a birds-eye view of the surrounding Bacuit Bay.
Full Post: Taraw Cliff: A Complete Guide To El Nido’s Canopy Walk
Town Proper is totally geared towards tourism and has a buzzing atmosphere. As well as many world-class resorts, there are heaps of delicious restaurants and lively bars.
El Nido also has some of the most stunning sunsets ever. The kind that make your jaw drop.
El Nido is undoubtedly one of the best travel destinations in the Philippines.
Coron
Another one of the best places to visit in the Philippines is Coron.
This is the only destination on this list that I did not visit myself but you can check out this detailed Coron Travel Guide.
Coron is a separate cluster of islands separate from Palawan and has a more laidback vibe compared to El Nido.
This slice of paradise has also gained fame for its limestone karst cliffs, crystal-clear freshwater lakes, vibrant turquoise water, and breathtaking secluded beaches.
Compared to El Nido, Coron is known to have better recreational diving. For history fanatics, you can dive to explore wreckage from WWII.
Boat trips and island hopping are the most popular activity here. Either depart on a day trip or, if you’re really looking to get off the beaten path, you can opt for a multi-day trip.
These multi-day trips are great for those looking to avoid the crowds and truly appreciate the natural surroundings. Most will involve camping on a beach for a truly unique experience.
There are also many amazing things to do around Coron, from hiking to viewpoints to relaxing in hot springs.
Coron Town Proper is not as geared towards tourism as the popular El Nido. You will not find as many restaurants or bars and generally, the atmosphere is a lot more chilled.
This makes it one of the best places to visit in the Philippines with family.
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Boracay
The final of the best places to visit in the Philippines is Boracay.
Boracay is known for having one of the most beautiful beaches in the Philippines. Perhaps even in the world.
When I saw White Beach for the first time, my jaw physically dropped. Powdery white sand, striking blue water, and a handful of coconut trees. Boracay is the epitome of a tropical paradise.
Boracay is also known for its stunning sunsets and the beachfront comes alive with happy hour deals and a buzzing atmosphere as the sun goes down.
However, the sheer amount of tourists overshadows everything.
I struggled to enjoy the stunning scenery when the beach was absolutely full of people trying to get the perfect Insta-worthy shot. Everything just felt a little pretentious and inauthentic.
The reason Boracay features on this list is because of its stunning beaches. Not all are as touristy as White Beach, and spending your days exploring the different beaches is the main thing to do.
There are also heaps of (overpriced) activities on offer, such as kitesurfing, jet skis, kayaks, and sunset boat trips.
If you’re a luxury traveler looking for world-class resorts, beautiful beaches to relax, fancy restaurants, and buzzing nightlife, then perhaps Boracay is the place for you.
However, as a budget backpacker, this is the most expensive place I’ve ever travelled to. It feels like one giant tourist playground, designed to rip you off.
This is not the kind of experience I look for when traveling.
That being said, if you can deal with the hoards of tourists and overpaying for everything, Boracay has the most beautiful beaches and sunsets I have ever seen.
It is certainly one of the best travel destinations in the Philippines for a holiday, however, if you are a budget backpacker like me, maybe another destination would be best.
The best time to visit the Philippines
As a tropical country, generally, the Philippines is hot all year round.
Naturally, the peak season coincides with the dry season. Although it varies depending on the destination, November – May are the best months to visit.
June, July, and August are generally the rainiest months.
However, try not to oversimplify the weather. The best time to visit Palawan would be very different from the best time to Siargao. Be sure to check the weather in each destination you are visiting.
Furthermore, as a religious country, also be sure to check if your trip coincides with any national holidays. Local tourism and prices skyrocket during these times.
Philippines Essentials Packing List
Average Philippines Travel Budget
Your average Philippines travel budget totally depends on the type of traveler you are.
The Philippines is very affordable for those from Western countries. My budget for the Philippines was roughly $30 a day.
I avoided flying as much as possible and opted for local transport options. I ate like a local and did DIY tours with a scooter.
The price of accommodation is much higher than in other Asian countries. You may have to sacrifice the luxury of aircon or hot water to save money.
That being said, your average Philippines travel budget could easily be much higher.
The Philippines boasts some of the most luxurious resorts in the world. When taking organised tours and eating in fancy restaurants, prices can easily creep up.
Nay Palad Hideaway Siargao – one of the most stunning resorts in the Philippines
If you don’t plan your Philippines backpacking route in advance, you are also guaranteed to spend lots of money on inter-connecting flights.
Overall, if you want to travel around the Philippines on a budget, you’ll be fine. Alternatively, if you’ve got a bit more cash to spend, you’ll have no problem putting it to good use.
WiFi & SIM Cards in the Philippines
There is no denying that the WiFi in the Philippines isn’t great.
Typically, in touristy destinations, you will have no problems with WiFi or signal. However, in more up-and-coming destinations, such as Port Barton or Siquijor, the WiFi can be patchy and unreliable.
I work online and I found that basic web browsing was fine in most places, but things like video calls were not great.
I would suggest getting a local SIM card with a data plan, to be on the safe side. You can grab a SIM from a local 7/11 or sari-sari store, or save yourself the hassle and download an eSIM.
How to get around the Philippines
I was pleasantly surprised by the public transport in the Philippines. There are plenty of options depending on your budget.
- By flight – most islands have a local airport, book flights in advance to save, budget domestic airlines
- By ferry – most common way to travel. Overnight ferries to save money. 12GO & Bookaway for tickets.
- By bus – book buses in advance with 12GO & Bookaway.
- By jeepney – the cheapest way to get around. In most cities.
- By scooter – the most common mode of transport. Expect to pay between 200 – 500 PHP ($3-9) per day.
- By tricycle or habal-habal – expect to pay about 100 PHP ($1.50) for a 10-minute drive
Visa for the Philippines
Most countries receive a 30-day visa upon arrival in the Philippines. You do not need to organise this in advance.
This can be extended for up to 60 days. Simply go to the Bureau of Immigration in Manila or Cebu to do this.
You will also need to provide proof of an onward flight within those 60 days. I suggest using onwardticket.com if you do not want to book your flight in advance.
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