15 Best Beaches in the Philippines You Must Visit

 

The Philippines is known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. Many travelers are drawn to its white sand shores and tropical scenery. A variety of beaches can be explored, each offering a unique experience. From lively destinations with vibrant nightlife to quiet, hidden coves, options are endless.

Visitors are often amazed by the beauty of these coastal gems. Activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and island hopping are widely available. Planning a trip can be easier with a guide that highlights the best beaches in the Philippines. This list includes must-visit spots that promise unforgettable memories for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

 

1. White Beach (Boracay, Aklan)

White Beach is famous for its powdery sand and turquoise waters. Its vibrant nightlife attracts travelers from around the world. Swimming, parasailing, and island hopping are popular activities. Resorts and restaurants line the shore, making it convenient for visitors. The best time to visit is November to May, when dry weather ensures clear skies. Walking along the shore at sunset is highly recommended.

• Highlights: Stunning sunsets make it one of the most popular beaches in the Philippines.
• Activities: Swimming, sunbathing, parasailing, and island hopping are widely enjoyed. Snorkeling trips are also available for beginners and experts.
• Best Time to Visit: Dry season from November to May is ideal. Avoid the rainy months from June to October.
• Hotel recommendations: Discovery Shores Boracay, The Lind Boracay, Mandarin White Sand Boracay

 

 

2. Nacpan Beach (El Nido, Palawan)

Nacpan Beach is a peaceful 4-kilometer stretch of golden sand. Its calm waters are perfect for swimming and relaxing under coconut trees. Kayaking and beach picnics are enjoyed by visitors. The best months to visit are November to May. Small eateries and guesthouses are nearby. A tricycle ride from El Nido town is required. The beach is also called the “twin beach” due to its smaller neighboring shore.

• Highlights: Perfect escape from crowded tourist spots.
• Activities: Swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing under coconut trees are popular. Some visitors enjoy kayaking and beach picnics.
• Best Time to Visit: November to May is recommended. Dry months offer the clearest water and best visibility.
• Hotel recommendations: El Nido Beach Hotel, Lihim Resorts, Pangulasian Island Resort
• Tips: A tricycle ride from El Nido town is necessary. Bring your own snacks and water for a full-day trip.

 

 

3. El Nido Beaches (Palawan)

El Nido features dramatic limestone cliffs and turquoise lagoons. Island hopping and snorkeling are popular for adventure seekers. Kayaking and photography are widely enjoyed. Dry season from November to May is ideal. Resorts cater to both budget and luxury travelers. Local boats offer day tours to hidden lagoons. Sunscreen and hats are recommended. Many lagoons here are world-famous and often featured in travel documentaries.

• Highlights: Its islands are considered some of the most beautiful in the Philippines.
• Activities: Island hopping, snorkeling, kayaking, and cliff diving are widely enjoyed. Photography enthusiasts will find endless opportunities.
• Best Time to Visit: Dry season from November to May is ideal. Avoid the wet months for safer boat rides.
• Hotel recommendations: El Nido Resorts Pangulasian Island, El Nido Resorts Lagen Island, El Nido Resorts Miniloc Island

 

 

4. Coron (Palawan)

• Coron is known for its crystal-clear lakes and world-class diving spots. Shipwreck diving and snorkeling attract tourists globally. Hiking and boat tours are also enjoyed. The best time to visit is November to May. Guesthouses and resorts are located in Coron town. Boat rentals make island hopping convenient. Underwater cameras are recommended. Coron’s sunken Japanese ship from World War II is a must-see for divers.
• Activities: Diving, snorkeling, swimming, and hiking are popular. Boat tours to hidden lakes are also recommended.
• Best Time to Visit: November to May provides calm seas and clear skies. Rainy season can affect boat trips.
• Tips: Boat rentals are convenient for exploring nearby islands. Don’t forget your underwater camera for diving adventures.
• Hotel recommendations: Two Seasons Coron Island Resort & Spa, Sunlight Eco Tourism Island Resort, Coron Soleil Garden Resort

 

 

5. Panglao Island (Bohol)

Panglao Island offers soft white sand and clear waters. Snorkeling, diving, and dolphin watching are popular activities. Swimming and beachside yoga are widely enjoyed. November to May provides the clearest waters. Resorts, restaurants, and dive shops are abundant. Panglao International Airport makes travel easy. Starfish-filled shallow waters are ideal for photography. The island is considered one of the best beaches in the Philippines for relaxation.

• Highlights: Its beaches are ideal for relaxation and water activities.
• Activities: Snorkeling, diving, dolphin watching, and swimming are popular. Some beaches offer volleyball and beachside yoga.
• Best Time to Visit: November to May is recommended. Summer months provide the clearest water.
• Fun Fact: Panglao is famous for its starfish-filled shallow waters, perfect for photography.
• Hotel recommendations: Amorita Resort, Donatela Resort and Sanctuary, Amarela Resort

 

 

6. Siargao Island

Siargao is famous for surfing at Cloud 9. Hidden lagoons, rock pools, and palm-fringed beaches are explored by visitors. Swimming and island hopping are popular activities. November to May is the best time to visit. Small resorts and eateries are available for tourists. The island offers a laid-back tropical vibe. Siargao is widely considered a top beach destination in the Philippines for adventure seekers.

• Highlights: A laid-back vibe makes it a favorite for both adventurers and those who want to slow down.
• Activities: Island hopping to Naked Island, Daku Island, and Guyam Island is recommended. Swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding are widely enjoyed.
• Best Time to Visit: The dry season from March to October is best for swimming and relaxing. For surfers, August to November provides the strongest waves.
• Fun Fact: Siargao was once a hidden gem until international surfers discovered it in the 1990s.
• Hotel Recommendations: Nay Palad Hideaway, Siargao Bleu Resort & Spa, Isla Cabana Resort

 

 

7. Calaguas Islands (Camarines Norte)

Calaguas is a remote paradise with untouched beaches. Swimming and camping are popular activities. Its seclusion makes it ideal for relaxation. November to May is the recommended time to visit. Small huts and basic eateries are available. Visitors often bring their own supplies. The islands are widely praised as one of the best hidden beaches in the Philippines. Its clear waters and white sand are breathtaking.

• Highlights: Calaguas remains peaceful and simple.
• Activities: Camping on the beach is a unique experience here. Swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking are popular. Island hopping is available for adventurous travelers.
• Best Time to Visit: November to May is the dry season and the most suitable time. Rainy months are better avoided because of rough seas.
• Tips: Facilities are limited, so visitors should bring their own food and camping supplies. Small stores are found near the main beach.
• Fun Fact: Calaguas is often called the “Boracay of the North” because of its fine sand.
• Hotel Recommendations: Waling-Waling Eco Village, Campsites along Mahabang Buhangin Beach

 

 

8. Bantayan Island (Cebu)

Bantayan Island features calm waters and soft sand. Swimming and sunbathing are widely enjoyed. Cycling around the island is popular. November to May is the best season to visit. Fishing villages offer a glimpse of local culture. Resorts and restaurants are available along the shore. The peaceful beaches make it one of the top quiet escapes in the Philippines. Sunset walks are highly recommended.

• Highlights: Visitors love its wide shorelines, fresh seafood, and charming fishing villages.
• Activities: Snorkeling and island hopping tours show hidden islets nearby. Cycling around the island is also popular, giving visitors the chance to discover local life.
• Best Time to Visit: The dry season from November to May is the most recommended time. The Holy Week festival is a major event on the island, combining local tradition with colorful celebrations.
• Tips: Bringing cash is important since ATMs can be limited.
• Fun Fact: Bantayan Island is known as the “Egg Basket of the Philippines” because of its large poultry farms that supply eggs across the country.
• Hotel Recommendations: Anika Island Resort, Kota Beach Resort, Amihan Beach Cabanas

 

 

9. White Island (Camiguin)

White Island is a sandbar offering panoramic views of Camiguin. Swimming and photography are popular activities. Morning visits are recommended for fewer crowds. November to May is ideal for clear skies. Small boats are used for transportation. No entrance fee is required. Visitors often enjoy a picnic while admiring views. The beach is widely considered one of the Philippines’ most scenic coastal spots.

• Highlights: White Island is a sandbar with no trees or buildings. It offers panoramic views of Mount Hibok-Hibok and the Camiguin coastline.
• Activities: Swimming and sunbathing are the main activities. Snorkeling is also possible in nearby waters. Picnics are often enjoyed by visiting families.
• Best Time to Visit: Mornings are best because tides are calmer and crowds are smaller. Dry season from November to May provides the clearest skies.
• Tips: Small boats are available from the main island to reach White Island. Food stalls can be found near the jump-off point. Sun protection is a must since there is no shade.
• Fun Fact: The sandbar changes shape depending on the tide, making each visit different.
• Hotel Recommendations: Paras Beach Resort, Balai sa Baibai Resort, Camiguin Volcan Beach Eco Retreat & Dive Resort

 

 

10. Pagudpud (Ilocos Norte)

Pagudpud features long stretches of white sand and scenic coastlines. Surfing, kiteboarding, and swimming are widely enjoyed. The best months to visit are November to May. Small resorts and eateries are available along the shore. Windy conditions attract adventure seekers. The beach is often called the “Boracay of the North.” Visitors enjoy both water sports and relaxing by the calm beaches.

• Highlights: It is often compared to Boracay but without the crowds. Strong winds and scenic coastlines give it a wild beauty.
• Activities: Swimming and kiteboarding are popular. Surfing is also available for thrill-seekers. Long beach walks are perfect for sunset lovers.
• Best Time to Visit: November to May is ideal for calmer seas. From July to October, strong winds attract kiteboarders.
• Tips: Public buses connect Pagudpud with nearby cities. Local eateries serve Ilocano delicacies like bagnet.
• Hotel Recommendations: Saud Beach Resort, Kapuluan Vista Resort, Casa Consuelo Resort

 

 

11. Samal Island (Davao)

Samal Island offers crystal-clear waters and beach resorts. Snorkeling, diving, and swimming are popular activities. November to May provides the best weather for outdoor adventures. Resorts and restaurants are available along the coast. Transportation from Davao City is convenient. Private beaches are ideal for relaxation. The island is widely recognized as a top tropical escape in the Philippines.

• Highlights: Samal Island is famous for its crystal-clear waters and marine life. Over 70 resorts are found here, offering different experiences for visitors.
• Activities: Snorkeling and diving are popular because of vibrant coral reefs. Swimming and kayaking are also widely enjoyed. Island hopping tours show hidden coves and sandbars.
• Best Time to Visit: November to May is the most suitable period for calm seas and good weather.
• Tips: Transportation is easy with ferries and boats from Davao.
• Fun Fact: Samal Island is home to the Monfort Bat Sanctuary, which holds the Guinness World Record for the largest colony of fruit bats.
• Hotel Recommendations: Pearl Farm Beach Resort, Chema’s by the Sea, Paradise Island Park & Beach Resort

 

 

12. Malapascua Island (Cebu)

Malapascua is famous for diving, especially thresher sharks. Its quiet beaches are perfect for relaxation. Swimming and snorkeling are widely enjoyed. November to May is ideal for clear waters. Small resorts and local eateries are available. The island is one of the best diving destinations in the Philippines. Visitors often enjoy sunrise walks along the peaceful shoreline.

• Highlights: Malapascua Island is best known for diving with thresher sharks.
• Activities: Diving is the main activity, especially shark watching. Snorkeling and swimming are also popular. Visitors often enjoy walking around the small island.
• Best Time to Visit: November to May offers the best diving conditions and dry weather.
• Tips: Cash is important since ATMs are limited.
• Fun Fact: Malapascua is one of the few places in the world where thresher sharks can be seen daily.
• Hotel Recommendations: Tepanee Beach Resort, Malapascua Exotic Island Dive Resort, Ocean Vida Beach and Dive Resort

 

 

13. Camotes Islands (Cebu)

Camotes Islands feature secluded beaches and calm waters. Swimming, snorkeling, and exploring caves are popular activities. November to May is the best time to visit. Small resorts and local eateries are available. The islands offer a peaceful getaway from crowded tourist spots. Visitors often enjoy cycling and photography. The beaches are considered some of the most relaxing in the Philippines.

• Highlights: The Camotes Islands are loved for their quiet beaches and natural caves. The islands are less developed, keeping their rustic charm intact.
• Activities: Lake Danao is great for kayaking. Exploring caves and waterfalls is also recommended.
• Best Time to Visit: The dry season between November and May is the most comfortable period.
• Tips: Motorbike rentals are popular for exploring. Ferries connect the islands to Cebu City.
• Fun Fact: The Camotes are often called the “Lost Horizon of the South” because of their unspoiled beauty.
• Hotel Recommendations: Mangodlong Paradise Beach Resort, Santiago Bay Garden Resort,  Camotes Flying Fish Resort

 

 

14. Siquijor Island

Siquijor is known for serene beaches and mystical charm. Swimming, snorkeling, and island hopping are widely enjoyed. November to May provides the best weather. Small resorts and local eateries are available. The island is perfect for both adventure and relaxation. Visitors often explore waterfalls and hidden coves. Siquijor is recognized as one of the top peaceful beach destinations in the Philippines.

• Highlights: It is often called the “Island of Fire” because of the glow of fireflies at night.
• Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, and island hopping are popular. Waterfalls and caves can be explored inland. Sunset watching is a favorite daily activity.
• Best Time to Visit: November to May is recommended for clear skies and calm seas.
• Tips: Motorbike rentals are available for easy travel.
• Fun Fact: Locals celebrate healing festivals, which make Siquijor both mystical and unique.
• Hotel Recommendations: Coco Grove Beach Resort, Infinity Heights Resort, U Story Guesthouse

 

 

15. White Beach (Puerto Galera, Mindoro)

White Beach in Puerto Galera offers lively nightlife and clear waters. Snorkeling, diving, and swimming are popular activities. November to May is ideal for visiting. Resorts and restaurants are available along the shore. The beach is crowded during weekends. Visitors enjoy both adventure and relaxation. It is widely considered one of the best accessible beaches in the Philippines.

• Highlights: Nacpan Beach is a quiet 4-kilometer stretch of golden sand.
• Activities: Swimming and sunbathing are most popular.
• Best Time to Visit: November to May is recommended for dry and sunny weather.
• Tips: Access is by tricycle or motorbike from El Nido town. Visitors are advised to bring snacks and water.
• Fun Fact: Nacpan is often called the “twin beach” because of its smaller neighbor, Calitang Beach.
• Hotel Recommendations: Nacpan Beach Glamping, Seaside Hue Resort, Mad Monkey Hostel Nacpan Beach

 

 

Planning a beach trip can feel overwhelming, but guidance is available. Expert advice ensures that your holiday is smooth and enjoyable. With the right plan, you will have more time to relax and less stress about the details. Ready to explore the best beaches in the Philippines? Contact us via WhatsApp: +86 187 2197 8867 or Email: info@expatsholiday