Top 8 Must-Visit Best Islands of the Philippines: Explore Them Today!
The Philippines is one of the biggest archipelagos in the world. Believe it or not, it is composed of around 7,640 islands. The country’s beautiful coast lines lie mainly in the Pacific Ocean in the east and West Philippine Sea in the west. Because of this, the Philippines is one of the most-visited countries in the world.
The white-sand beaches and wonderful rock formation put the country on the list of the most sought-after tourist destinations. The best islands of the Philippines are among the top-most places that tourists from around the world love to visit. The weather is calm and hot, perfect for a memorable vacation.
Some of the best islands of the Philippines received awards from various organizations. Palawan and Boracay, for example, were lauded as the world’s most beautiful places by Big 7 Travel. Not only that, Palawan’s Underground River is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. These two places are among the best islands of the Philippines that you, too, can visit and explore.
Re-imagine a memorable and wonderful trip to the Philippines by reading this captivating blog for adventurers like you. Stay with us as we tour you to ten of the must-visit and best islands of the Philippines.
Top 8 Best Islands of the Philippines
Boracay Island
Famous for its white-sand beaches, Boracay Island is home to thousands of tourists every day. It was hailed as one of the best beaches in the world where a crowd of tourists, both local and foreign, express their interest to experience the beauty of a white-beach island.
During Christmas and New Year Holidays, Boracay is crowded with local and foreign visitors. However, for locals, the Holy Week jam-packs Boracay because of long vacation.
Numerous water sports and diving activities await you on the island. Night life in Boracay island is mostly enjoyed with friends, making your visit exciting and unforgettable.
What to see and do in Boracay Island
- White Beach – enjoy the fine white sand beach of the island
- Sunset Paraw – chase the sunset while riding on a “paraw”(boat)
- Banana Boat ride – get soaked by the splashing waves as you ride the banana boat
- Boracay Helmet Dive – feel like an astronaut underwater and experience the beauty of marine life; swim with the fishes and sea turtles.
- Instagrammable white-sand photography – take “instagrammable” photos on Boracay’s white sand beaches and post them in your social media accounts.
- Ride on a paddleboard – simply paddle through Boracay’s white sand beaches and clear waters
Palawan
Whether you are visiting Coron or Puerto Princesa, Palawan is also one of the best islands of the Philippines. Known as the Philippines’ last frontier, the island is rich in biodiversity where you see the vast forest and sparkling waters meet. Palawan also has wondrous rock formation similar to that of Vietnam’s rock formations in Ha Long Bay.
Palawan’s Underground River is one tourist attraction that made the island worldly known. You will also see pristine beaches in Palawan including limestone cliffs and lagoons. Get ready to explore discover Palawan with confidence.
What to see and do in Palawan
- Experience the Underground River cruise and witness the awesome shapes of stalactites and stalagmites.
- Dive in Tubbataha Reef and enjoy with schools of fish and a thousand kinds of marine animals.
- Feel free and relaxed in Kayangan Lake in Coron as you touch the crystal clear waters.
- be touched with the powdery white sands in the picturesque Nacpan Beach in El Nido
- Experience a quiet boat ride in El Nido’s Big Lagoon, as you see the sparkling clear waters surrounded by amazingly formed limestones
- Feel goosebumps in the Twin Lagoon and see the clearest and most vibrant colors of the waters surrounding the limestones.
Cebu
Cebu, the Queen City of the South, is just one of the best islands of the Philippines known to many foreign visitors. It is known not just for its grandest festivals, but also for its beautiful tourist attractions that do not limit only to white-sand beaches, but also to historical sites and waterfalls. Cebu can offer a lot of various adventure activities that you can experience not too far from the city.
Mactan Island can give you a once-in-a-lifetime experience of extreme activities like parasailing, water sports activities, island hopping, and so much more! Come and visit Cebu anytime to experience adventure and fun.
What to see and do in Cebu
- Swim with the whalesharks in Oslob
- Canyoneering to Kawasan Falls
- Crystal clear water along Bantayan Island’s coastline
- City tour in temples, historical and religious sites, flower gardens, buffet restaurants
- Pray and worship in Simala Shrine
Bohol
Bohol is famous for breath-taking Chocolate Hills and home to the world’s smallest primate, Tarsier. The best time to visit Bohol is during dry seasons in the country, between March and May, especially when you crave to experience and witness Chocolate Hills.
Bohol does not only offer you tranquility and green sceneries, but it also gives you real island vibes when you visit its Virgin Islands with white-sand beaches. The Tarsier can also be visited in Bohol’s nature reserve, particularly in the town of Bilar. Just be careful when taking pictures with the world’s smallest primate because they don’t like flashes of lights. Behold Bohol!
What to see and do in Bohol
- Breath-taking Chocolate Hills
- Visit Panglao Beaches
- Explore Hinagdanan cave where you can swim and dive in its cold waters
- Experience Loboc River Cruise with entertainment and local food
- Get in touch (but not literally touch) the Tarsier
- Own the roads in the man-made forest
Camiguin Island
Known as the “Island Born of Fire,” Camiguin is the best place to visit for workaholic people. The island offers serene vibes to travelers, making you love it in every place you visit. Camiguin is one of the best islands in the Philippines where you feel relaxed and calm. You’ll find peace because of its natural atmosphere.
Camiguin Island has a unique “White Island” forming a letter “C”, and Mantigue Island where you experience crystal clear waters, hot and cold springs, and diving spots perfect for free divers. Experience Camiguin and feel the home away from home.
Come again in Camiguin!
What to see and do in Camiguin
- Experience White Island in Camiguin
- Shake your body with coldness in Sto Nino Cold Spring
- Relax and be massaged in Ardent Hot Spring
- Climb Mt. Hibok-Hibok and see the horizon on the summit
- Take photos in C-shaped White Island
- Dive and snorkel in Mantigue Island
- Explore Katibawasan and Tuasan Falls
- Be reminded of volcanic eruption history in the Old Church ruins
- Take a quick dive into the mysterious Sunken cemetery
- Experience diving and snorkeling in the Giant Clams Sanctuary
- Meditate in the Walkway to the Cross
Siargao Island
Siargao Island is the Philippines’ surfing capital. Many surfers from different parts of the world come here to experience the strong waves of the ocean. It is a perfect spot for surfing enthusiasts. Visit Siargao Island and be an island icon.
Whether you are a beginner level or professional surfer, Siargao Island is your best surfing spot in the Philippines. Cloud 9, the most famous surfing spot in the island, has gained worldwide popularity because of its thick hollow tubes of waves that are picturesque and perfect for surfing exhibitions.
What to see and do in Siargao Island
- Surf in Cloud 9’s perfect waves
- Take a leap at Sugba Lagoon, perfect for cliff divers
- Experience enchantment at Sohoton Cove National Park
- Be splashed with waves getting into the Magpupungko Rock Pools
- Have a bamboo raft cruise and swing at Maasin’s bent coconut tree rope
- Drive along the island’s straight roads with coconut palms
- Take a selfie and groufie with the human drone overlooking the vast coconut plantation
- Have an island hopping tour in the nearby islands: Daku Island, Guyam Island, and Naked Island
- Stay for a while in the famous “Afam Bridge” for a rare street eating adventure while watching the sunset.
Siquijor
Not so known to foreign tourists, but Siquijor is a mystical island in the Philippines. It does not only give you beautiful beaches, but also cold and captivating waterfalls, with healing waters.
You can visit Siquijor at any time of the year, but it’s visit to explore it during less crowded days. However, flights and accommodations may be a bit expensive during the lean season. Be in Siquijor; explore Siquijor.
What to see and do in Siquijor
- Try the Tarzan Swing in Cambugahay Falls
- Experience tranquility at Paliton Beach
- Plunge into the turquoise waters of Salagdoong Beach Cliff
- Trek and see for yourself the beauty of Lagaan Falls
- Be enchanted with the old Balete tree
- Be embraced with the falling fresh waters of Lugnason Falls
- Dive into Tulapos Marine Sanctuary
Batanes
Dreaming of going to New Zealand? No need, as Batanes can offer you that vibe. Despite its distance from the capital city, Manila, Batanes is one of the best islands of the Philippines because it has a rugged beauty, rolling hill, and unique culture. Even if prone to catastrophe, the island can captivate a tourist’s heart.
Known as the “northernmost frontier,” Batanes is an eco-tourism and marine core. The coastal areas and cliffs in Batanes give you a picturesque scenery while observing the beautiful oceans that surround it.
Fact: Batanes is the smallest island but one of the best islands of the Philippines.
What to see and do in Batanes
- Quick visit to Basco Lighthouse
- Experience New Zealand in Vayang Rolling Hills
- Experience countryside living in Sabtang Lighthouse
- Visit and explore Morong Beach
- Pray in the stone churches of Tukon and Mt. Carmel Chapel
- Drop by at the oldest surviving Ibatan house: House of Dakay
- Take instagrammable photos in Rakuh a Payaman
- Witness the panoramic view of Batanes at Chawa View Deck
- Be mesmerized with the Dipnaysupuan Japanese Tunnel
- Implement honesty in Honesty Coffee Shop
- Get to experience living in stone houses
Should You Visit the Philippines Soon?
If you’re looking for mountain adventures and extreme water activities, the best islands of the Philippines are the answers. From North to South, the country can give you exciting memories that you’ll never forget.
Yes, you should visit the Philippines soon. Here are the reasons why:
- The weather is nice, especially during dry season.
- The people are nice, kind, hospitable, and friendly.
- The country has a diverse culture.
- There are a lot of fun-filled adventures in the country.
- The best islands of the Philippines are just one fly away.
- The food and adventures are affordable.
- Unique transportation and strange street food make your stomach crave for more.
Best Time to Visit the Philippines
There is no best time to visit the country, because every day is the best time to see the best islands of the Philippines. Regardless of the weather, you can always experience great enjoyment and fun in many of the best islands of the Philippines. However, to fully experience it, visit the country during dry season, between March to May.
Which best islands of the Philippines do you want to visit soon?
What to consider before visiting the Philippines
- Your availability
- Your budget
- Flight and accommodation
- Your island destination
- Preferred activities
- What you want to experience
Explore the Best Islands of the Philippines
Come and visit the best islands of the Philippines; experience serenity, island vibes, extreme adventures, and more! It’s more fun in the Philippines. Love the Philippines.
