Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
The Philippines islands are among the most beautiful places in the world, offering stunning landscapes, diverse marine life, and warm hospitality. This country has over 7,000 islands, each with its own charm, from bustling cities to remote tropical paradises. Travelers can find white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, breathtaking waterfalls, and rich history. Whether you love adventure, relaxation, or culture, these islands have something special for you. In this guide, we explore the top ten Philippines islands that you should visit.
Top 10 Destinations In The Philippines
Here are the best places to visit in the Philippines and what makes them special.
1. Palawan
Photo: Marek Ślusarczyk / Wikimedia Commons
Palawan is one of the most famous Philippines islands. It has some of the best beaches and landscapes in the country. Travelers love its turquoise waters, towering limestone cliffs, and rich marine life. Palawan is perfect for adventure seekers. You can explore Nacpan Beach, a long stretch of golden sand with clear blue waters. El Nido offers breathtaking lagoons, where you can kayak and swim. Another must-visit spot is San Vicente, home to the country’s longest white sand beach. Palawan also has an impressive underwater world.
Location: Palawan Province
Major Attraction: El Nido’s Secret Coves
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 5 days
Nearest Airport: Puerto Princesa International Airport
2. Boracay
Photo: Alexey Komarov / Wikimedia Commons
Boracay is one of the most visited Philippines islands. It is famous for its powdery white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. Boracay’s White Beach is a paradise for beach lovers. It is lined with restaurants, bars, and resorts, making it a great spot for both relaxation and entertainment. Water sports such as kite surfing, paddleboarding, and diving are popular activities.
Location: Aklan Province
Major Attraction: White Beach
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 4 days
Nearest Airport: Godofredo P. Ramos Airport (Caticlan)
3. Cebu
Photo: P199 / Wikimedia Commons
Cebu is one of the most diverse Philippines islands. It has beautiful beaches, waterfalls, historical sites, and lively city life. Cebu is famous for its waterfalls, especially Kawasan Falls, where visitors can swim in turquoise waters or try canyoneering. The island is also home to Magellan’s Cross and the Basilica del Santo Niño, which are important historical sites. For beach lovers, Cebu offers stunning spots such as Bantayan Island and Malapascua, known for diving with thresher sharks. The island is also a gateway to whale shark watching in Oslob.
Location: Cebu Province
Major Attraction: Kawasan Falls
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 5 days
Nearest Airport: Mactan-Cebu International Airport
4. Bukidnon
Photo: Androkoy / Wikimedia Commons
Bukidnon is a hidden gem among the Philippines islands. It is known for its lush green landscapes and cool climate. Bukidnon is perfect for nature lovers. It offers hiking trails, waterfalls, and eco-tourism activities. The Mount Kitanglad Range is home to the Philippine eagle, an endangered species. Visitors can also explore the Monastery of Transfiguration, a peaceful retreat with beautiful architecture.
Location: Bukidnon Province, Mindanao
Major Attraction: Mount Kitanglad Range
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Laguindingan Airport
5. Coron
Photo: Ray in Manila / Wikimedia Commons
Coron is one of the most breathtaking Philippines islands. It is famous for its stunning rock formations, clear lakes, and shipwreck diving sites. Kayangan Lake is one of the cleanest lakes in Asia and offers stunning views. Visitors can also explore Twin Lagoon, where freshwater meets saltwater, creating a unique swimming experience. Coron is also a top diving destination, with several Japanese shipwrecks from World War II lying beneath its waters. These wrecks are now home to vibrant marine life, making them a must-visit for divers.
Location: Palawan Province
Major Attraction: Kayangan Lake
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 4 days
Nearest Airport: Francisco B. Reyes Airport
6. Bohol
Photo: rogel tura / Wikimedia Commons
Bohol is among the most charming Philippines islands. It offers both natural wonders and cultural heritage. The Chocolate Hills are a unique geological formation with over 1,000 cone-shaped hills. Visitors can also see the Philippine tarsier, one of the world’s smallest primates. Bohol has beautiful beaches, such as Alona Beach, known for snorkeling and diving. The Loboc River Cruise offers a relaxing way to experience local culture while enjoying a buffet meal in a floating restaurant.
Location: Bohol Province
Major Attraction: Chocolate Hills
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Bohol-Panglao International Airport
7. Siargao
Photo: ChaasPrime / Wikimedia Commons
Siargao is one of the top surfing destinations in the Philippines islands. It is known for its laid-back atmosphere and natural beauty. Siargao’s Cloud 9 is a world-famous surf break that attracts surfers from all over the world. Beyond surfing, visitors can explore Sugba Lagoon, Magpupungko Rock Pools, and the picturesque Naked Island. The island has a relaxed, bohemian vibe, with beachfront cafés and yoga retreats. It is also home to one of the country’s best island-hopping experiences, taking visitors to nearby islands with stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters.
Location: Surigao del Norte Province
Major Attraction: Cloud 9 Surf Spot
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 5 days
Nearest Airport: Siargao Airport
8. Guimaras
Photo: paulshaffner / Wikimedia Commons
Guimaras is one of the lesser-known Philippines islands, but it offers stunning beaches and delicious mangoes. Guimaras is best known for producing the sweetest mangoes in the Philippines. Visitors can enjoy beach resorts such as Alubihod Beach or explore hidden spots such as Tatlong Pulo. The island also offers eco-tourism activities, such as visiting wind farms and exploring historical sites such as the Guisi Lighthouse.
Location: Guimaras Province
Major Attraction: Alubihod Beach
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Iloilo International Airport
9. La Union
Photo: Ralff Nestor Nacor / Wikimedia Commons
La Union is one of the most exciting destinations in the Philippines islands, especially for surfing enthusiasts. It is widely known as the “Surfing Capital of Northern Philippines” due to its consistent waves, perfect for both beginners and advanced surfers. However, La Union offers more than just surfing. It has beautiful beaches, stunning waterfalls, rich cultural heritage, and a growing food and arts scene.
Location: La Union Province
Major Attraction: Urbiztondo Beach
Ideal Trip Duration: 2-4 days
Nearest Airport: San Fernando Airport
10. Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte
Photo: Luzviminda7641 / Wikimedia Commons
Pagudpud is one of the most breathtaking destinations in the Philippines islands. Located in Ilocos Norte, this coastal paradise is often called the “Boracay of the North” due to its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. Unlike Boracay, however, Pagudpud remains peaceful and less crowded, making it an ideal escape for those who love nature, adventure, and relaxation. It is a dream destination for beach lovers and adventure seekers.
Location: Ilocos Norte Province
Major Attraction: Saud Beach
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Laoag International Airport
The Philippines islands are a paradise for travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences. With over 7,000 islands, the country offers world-class surfing in Siargao, breathtaking dive sites in Cebu and Coron, and pristine white sand beaches in Boracay and Palawan. Whether you want to explore hidden lagoons, trek scenic mountains, or simply unwind by the ocean, there is a perfect destination for you. Plan your next trip with TripXL and discover the incredible beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality of the Philippines islands.
Cover Photo: Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons
