5 Most Beautiful Islands in The Philippines
The Philippines is an amazing country waiting to be explored. It’s located in the Western Pacific Ocean and is home to more than 7600 islands. As the Philippines consists of so many islands, it can be hard to choose which one to visit.
That’s why I’ve made this list of the 5 most beautiful islands in the Philippines. The Philippines is definitely one of the most beautiful countries I have ever visited.
Sometimes you see pictures of places online and when you arrive at the place in question, it does not look that picture perfect after all. This is what I expected when I first visited the Philippines.
However, I quickly learned that pictures don’t even do this gorgeous country justice. In real life, the natural sights of the Philippines are even more breathtaking.
This country with incredible scenery is a lot less touristic than other countries such as Thailand and Bali. A lot of places here haven’t yet been discovered by mass tourism.
In my opinion, this makes it an even better place to visit. The people here are very kind and you can easily go island hopping by ferry or small airplane.
Besides, it’s a very affordable destination. That’s why this country is really worth visiting. Read on to find out more about the most beautiful islands in the Philippines.
Disclosure: please note that some of the links below may contain affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase.
The most beautiful islands in the Philippines
There are so many worth wile islands in the Philippines that it can be hard to choose where to go. However, a visit to the following islands will definitely be an experience you will never forget.
1. Coron
Coron is definitely one of the most beautiful islands in the Philippines, if not in the world. If you can only visit one of these islands, I would even suggest to make it this one. The natural sights of Coron Island are incredible. It’s located in the northern part of Palawan province in the Philippines.
Must visit places here include the Twin Lagoon and the Kayangan Lake. These are amongst the most beautiful places I have ever seen. There are also popular dive sights such as the WWII shipwrecks.
Coron Island is home to hidden coves, out of this world limestone cliffs and crystal clear water. After a long day of exploring, you can relax at the natural Maquinit Hot Springs.
Another great place to visit in Coron is Mount Tapyas. You can hike to the top of Mount Tapyas and you will have very rewarding views. It takes around 20-30 minutes to reach the top. I will admit I found this a bit challenging, even though there is a clear path of stairs which will lead you to the top.
However, the views were unexpectedly beautiful. Especially if you walk a bit further after you’ve reached the highest point of Mount Taypas.
I would suggest spending around 3 to 4 days in Coron, as there is enough to explore here and the sights are magnificent.
If you want to stay at a good hotel with a nice swimming pool in the middle of Coron, stay at Corto del Mar Hotel. Click here for its prices.
If you prefer to stay in a clean and spacious apartment, opt for Haisa Apartments instead.
However, if you want to be surrounded by nature, choose to stay at La Natura Resort. This small family run business is set in nature and has a great pool. Click here for the latest prices.
2. Palawan
Palawan is probably the most famous island in the Philippines. And for good reason! The Island of Palawan is truly marvelous. The Island is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers who want to experience the beauty of the Philippines.
Here you can visit El Nido, a small town famous for its stunning beaches, limestone cliffs and clear waters. I would highly recommend to go island hopping and snorkeling when you’re in El Nido. Personally, I would recommend going island hopping with Ape Tours. I had a really good experience with them.
Another great place to visit in Palawan is the laid-back village of Port Barton. This is the perfect place to relax, as it’s a small village surrounded by white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters.
One day I went wandering around Port Barton when I walked across a restaurant called Restobar Mojito. This eventually became my personal favorite. I would highly recommend visiting this place when you’re in Port Barton. It has a really relaxed atmosphere, a kind dog and delicious fish tacos.
If you’re looking for a place to stay in El Nido with incredible views and breakfast included, stay at The Funny Lion. Click here for its prices.
However, if you prefer a more secluded stay, then opt for the beautiful Eco Sanctuaries Nature Lodge Nacpan Beach instead. Click here for their latest prices.
3. Camiguin
If you’re into volcanic islands, definitely visit Camiguin Island. This lesser known island is home to seven volcanoes, including one active one named Mount Hibok-Hibok. You can hike up to this active volcano if you want to.
Afterwards you can visit one of its natural (hot and cold) springs, such as the Ardent Hot Springs. Another unique place to visit in Camiguin is the Sunken Cemetery, which is a unique dive site where you can explore an underwater graveyard that was submerged in the 1870s by a volcanic eruption.
Camiguin is also home to some beautiful waterfalls, such as the Katibawasan Falls and Tuasan Falls.
If you want to stay at a special boutique hotel in Camiguin, stay at SomeWhere Else Boutique Resort. Click here for their latest prices.
If you want to stay at a place with a gorgeous garden in a lovely setting, choose to stay at Paco’s Garden Home Stay. Click here to check the prices.
4. Siargao
Siargao to me felt different than all of the other islands I have traveled to in the Philippines. It still feels a bit like home to me. There is a very laid-back atmosphere here. Maybe because it’s a popular surf destination.
The surfing capital of the Philippines is home to the famous Cloud 9 surf break, which attracts surfers from all over the world.
If you don’t surf, this island is definitely still worth going to. I only surfed here once and still it is my favorite island in the Philippines. Especially driving round the island on a scooter felt like one of the most authentic experiences in the Philippines.
There is one particular road which has an amazing view filled with palm trees. This iconic road is called Palm Tree Avenue.
Don’t forget to visit the Sugba Lagoon in Siargao as well. You can take a boat ride from General Luna, which takes around an hour and passes through a mangrove forest before arriving at the lagoon. Once at Sugba Lagoon, you can swim, snorkel, paddleboard, or kayak in its refreshing waters.
I would highly recommend visiting Siargao. It’s one of the most beautiful islands in the Philippines. There are many trendy cafes and restaurants here, such as Shaka Cafe, where you can get delicious smoothie bowls. The main area where the most restaurants are located, is called General Luna.
If you’re looking for a place to stay in General Luna, I would recommend staying at Camanolo Homestay. Click here to check their prices.
If you want to stay at a more tranquil place directly on the beach, then stay at DaRosa Del Mar. Have a look over here for their latest prices.
5. Cebu
Cebu is one of the easiest islands to get to due to its airport. It’s the main island of the Cebu Province and is especially worth visiting if you’re into diving/snorkeling or into chasing waterfalls.
Cebu Island is a haven for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts as there are many popular dive sites here such as Moalboal, Oslob, and Malapascua Island. In Moalboal you can experience the Sardine Run, which is a natural occurrence where millions of sardines are swimming together in schools.
In Oslob you can swim with whale sharks, however I wouldn’t recommend doing this, as the practice is very unethical and it endangers the whale sharks. If you do want to swim with whale sharks, but in an ethical way, go to Donsol or Pintuyan.
If you want to swim with thresher sharks, Malapascua Island is a must visit. This is one of the few places in the world where you can reliably swim with thresher sharks.
Another reason why Cebu is amongst the most beautiful islands in the Philippines, is because of its many jaw dropping waterfalls. I would highly recommend visiting the following waterfalls in Cebu: Kawasan Falls, Inambakan Falls and Binalayan Hidden Falls. There are many more waterfalls in Cebu, but I think these are the most breathtaking ones.
If you’re figuring out where to stay in Cebu, I would recommend choosing to stay in Moalboal. This place is surrounded by waterfalls, beaches, restaurants and the popular diving spot of Pescador Island Marine Park is nearby.
A great place to stay here is Cebu Seaview Dive Resort. This is a resort and diving centre in one, located just a few steps from the beach. Click here to see their latest prices.
Another hidden gem to stay at is Sambag Hideaway Bungalows. Here you have a reef where occasionally turtles swim right in front of your doorstep. Click here for the latest prices.
Final thoughts
The Philippines is a land not yet discovered by mass tourism. It’s home to more than 7600 islands, which can make it hard to choose where to go. The most beautiful islands in the Philippines include Coron, Palawan, Camiguin, Siargao and Cebu.
In Coron you will see natural sights where you will have to pinch yourself to make sure you’re not dreaming. In Palawan you can go island hopping and I’m pretty sure you will remember this experience for a life time. Visit Camiguin if you’re interested in places less traveled and volcanoes.
Siargao is the surfing capital of the Philippines and has a really laid-back atmosphere. Whereas, in Cebu you can visit many waterfalls and swim with (thresher) sharks.
All in all, the islands of the Philippines have something for everyone and are truly worth visiting. It’s one of the most beautiful countries I have ever visited and I hope you will visit it one day too.
Have you ever been to the Philippines or are you thinking of going there? Please let me know in the comments.
Away with Danae
