Picture this: you’re lying on a pristine beach with a refreshing San Miguel in hand. The breeze is soft and the sun is warm. The island you are on is remote, so all you hear are the gentle splashing of blue waves and the tropical sounds of island life. With over 7,000 other islands in the Philippines, this is just the tip of the iceberg.
With inexpensive costs and friendly people, the Philippines is one of the most rewarding countries in Asia to travel. If you are looking for a country full of stunning scenery, delicious food, and inviting culture, the Philippines might just be what you are seeking. Take a look below to explore 10 of the most beautiful places to visit in the Philippines.
What are the best tourist spots in the Philippines?
- Bask in island paradise at Boracay
- Catch waves at Siargao Island, surf capital of the Philippines
- Check out the hanging coffins at Echo Valley, Sagada
- Trek the volcanoes on Camiguin Island
- Go back in time at the historic town of Vigan
- Marvel at the Banaue Rice Terraces in Ifugao
- Cycle across Bantayan Island
- Go snorkeling at Apo Island
- Walk along the sandbars of Bonbon Beach
- Cliff jump at Kawasan Falls
1. Bask in island paradise at Boracay
Once named the best beach in the world, Boracay is a remote island in Aklan. With a 4-kilometre stretch of powdery white sand situated along turquoise water, this beautiful beach is a must for beach-lovers.
After basking on the beach, you can get a taste of adventure at Ariel’s point where you can cliff-dive from 5 different thrilling cliffs, ranging from 3 to 13 metres high.
2. Catch waves at Siargao Island, surf capital of the Philippines
Head over to Siargao Islands where the waters are blue and the surf areas are uncrowded. Conditions here are optimal for surfing for all levels, including those who just want to learn.
If surfing isn’t your thing, explore the hidden caves or chill in the rock pools. The glow of the sunsets just hit differently here, so be sure to kick back at a beach hut or karaoke bar and enjoy the good life at one of the best tourist spots in the Philippines.
3. Check out the hanging coffins at Echo Valley, Sagada
If you are one who is not easily spooked, head over to Echo Valley where you can view the fascinating hanging coffins. Be sure to pay respect as this area is where the locals place their dead into deep crevices. This burial method is believed to allow the deceased to embark their journey into the afterlife.
Nearby are the stunning rock formations at Sumaguing Cave where you can go caving and spelunking.
4. Trek the volcanoes on Camiguin Island
On the tiny, uninhabited island of Camiguin Island lie seven different volcanoes where trekking through stunning forests can be done. The highest of the seven is Mt. Timpoong, standing at a lofty 1,500 metres high.
Camiguin Island does not just have magnificent volcanoes. Take a tour of the historical town on the island where Spanish-era ruins remain intact. Go further inland to take a dip in the pristine water of Tuawasan Falls.
After exploring this remote island, you will understand why it is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the Philippines.
5. Go back in time at the historic town of Vigan
Vigan is a UNESCO World Heritage site that is a very well preserved 16th-century town where you will find tons of heritage museums and unique cuisine.
Back when the town was thriving, it was a European trading town in Southeast Asia. Head over to Syquia Mansion where period furnishings, opulent rooms, and timeless art are housed inside the stone mansion.
READ MORE: When is the best time to visit Philippines?
6. Marvel at the Banaue Rice Terraces in Ifugao
Occasionally called “the eighth wonder of the world”, these spectacular, green rice terraces are largely believed to be carved into the mountains by hand by the indigenous Ifugao people.
Getting there is not easy, but well worth the trip. You will have to travel through beautiful forests and springs to get to a point where the view of the endless rice terraces is simply extraordinary.
7. Cycle across Bantayan Island
This idyllic piece of land is surrounded by crystal-blue water where you will feel completely off the beaten path. Bantayan Island is truly a hidden gem, and to ride a bicycle across the island is as peaceful as it is rewarding.
As the only place in the Philippines to skydive, this Bantayan Island is one of the best tourist spots in the Philippines.
8. Go snorkeling at Apo Island
With over 650 documented species of fish and 400 species of coral, Apo Island is a snorkeler’s dream come true. The water here is so clear that you can see the turtles and other underwater wildlife without having to dive very deep.
If snorkeling isn’t your thing, diving is another option for an even deeper exploration of the waters.
9. Walk along the sandbars of Bonbon Beach
Walking along the sandbars of Bonbon beach in Romblon Island will leave you speechless. It is by far one of the most beautiful places to visit in the Philippines as you will be surrounded by crystal-clear water when you walk along strips of sand as far as the eye can see.
Once you finish marveling at the sandbars, head over to Libton Falls, located further in the island, for a refreshing dip in the forest.
10. Cliff jump at Kawasan Falls
Last, but not least, is the breathtaking Kawasan Falls. Often regarded as the best falls in the Philippines, many visitors come here for the cliff jumping experience.
With cliffs 12 meters high, diving is a thrill as you land into the glassy pool underneath. Beautifully surrounded by forests, it is truly something magical and considered one the best tourist spots in the Philippines.
The Philippines is one of the best countries to visit in Southeast Asia, if not all of Asia. Many adventures and beautiful sights are waiting to be explored. The best part? Traveling here is extremely budget-friendly. So what are you waiting for? The most beautiful places to visit in the Philippines are ready for you to explore.
Check out our Philippines Travel Guide for tips on everything you need
to know when planning your trip to the Philippines so you can
make the most of your time in this unforgettable country!
