I still remember the first time I set foot in the Philippines.
It wasn’t just the heat that hit me. It was the energy. The air smelled of salt, grilled pork, and tropical flowers. I hopped into a tricycle, my backpack jammed against the roof. The driver flashed a grin that seemed to say, “Welcome to the chaos, my friend.”
That specific brand of chaos is beautiful.
If you are a new Asia tourist, the Philippines is the perfect introduction. It is English-friendly. The locals are incredibly warm. And the landscapes? They honestly look like screensavers.
I have spent months island-hopping through this archipelago. I have slept in hammocks, luxury villas, and on boat decks. I learned that with over 7,000 islands, picking the “best” is impossible.
But I can tell you which ones stole my heart.
Here are the 8 most beautiful beaches in the Philippines that you absolutely must see.
Before You Go: A Seasoned Traveler’s Insight
Planning a trip to the islands in Asia can feel overwhelming. Here is what I wish I knew before I booked my first flight.
1. The Weather Matters
The Philippines has two main seasons: Dry and Wet.
Travel Tip: Aim for December to May. This is the dry season. The water is clearer, and the ferries are less likely to be cancelled.
2. Embrace “Filipino Time”
Things here happen when they happen. Ferries might be late. Buses might wait until they are full.
My advice: Don’t over-schedule. Leave gaps in your itinerary. Relax and buy a coconut while you wait.
3. Cash is King
In Manila, cards work fine. On the islands? Not so much.
Actionable Tip: Always carry small bills (20s, 50s, and 100s). Tricycle drivers rarely have change for a 1,000 peso note.
1. El Nido, Palawan (Nacpan Beach)
You cannot talk about the Philippines without mentioning Palawan. It consistently ranks as one of the best islands in the world.
While the main town is busy, the real magic is Nacpan Beach.
It is a 4-kilometer stretch of golden sand. It sits about 45 minutes north of the main town by motorbike. The ride there is bumpy. You will dodge chickens and potholes. But the destination is worth it.
Why it’s special:
The twin beaches (Nacpan and Calitang) meet to form a sandbar. The water is a deep, inviting turquoise.
Where to stay:
- Budget: Mad Monkey Hostel (for social vibes).
- Luxury: Angkla Beach Club and Boutique Resort.
My Personal Tip:
Don’t just stay on the beach. Book an island-hopping tour (Tour A or C are best). You will kayak into lagoons surrounded by jagged limestone cliffs.
2. White Beach, Boracay
Years ago, Boracay had a reputation for being too crowded.
Then, the government closed it for six months to rehabilitate the island. I visited shortly after it reopened. The transformation was stunning.
The sand here is like powdered sugar. It is cool to the touch, even at noon. The sunsets turn the sky into a painting of purple and orange.
Is it for you?
If you want convenience, yes. You have restaurants, malls, and clinics right on the beach. It is perfect for families or solo travelers who want an easy transition into Asia.
Actionable Advice:
Stay at Station 1 for luxury and quiet. Stay at Station 2 if you want to be in the middle of the action.
3. Banul Beach, Coron
Coron is El Nido’s rugged cousin. The landscapes are sharper. The water is clearer.
Banul Beach is a small strip of white sand tucked under massive limestone walls. Most boat tours stop here for lunch.
I remember eating grilled squid here with my hands. The water was so clear I could see fish swimming around my ankles while I ate.
For the Adventure Seeker:
Coron is famous for shipwreck diving. Japanese supply ships from WWII rest at the bottom of the bay.
If you are looking for the 8 Best Beaches in Asia for Snorkeling and Diving, Coron needs to be on your list. The coral gardens here are vibrant and alive.
Getting There:
Fly into Busuanga Airport. Take a van to Coron Town. Book a private boat to beat the crowds to Banul.
4. Cloud 9, Siargao
Siargao is the cool kid of the Philippines.
It used to be a secret spot for surfers. Now, it is a haven for digital nomads and Asia tourist crowds looking for a vibe.
Cloud 9 is the famous surf break. Even if you don’t surf, the boardwalk is iconic. Watching the pros ride the barrels at sunset is a daily ritual here.
The Vibe:
It is laid back. People drive scooters barefoot. You eat smoothie bowls for breakfast and fresh seafood for dinner.
Must-Do:
Rent a motorbike. Drive to the Maasin River. You will see the famous bent palm tree. Locals swing from a rope into the river. Join them. It is terrifying and exhilarating.
5. Saud Beach, Pagudpud
Do you hate crowds? Do you want to feel like you discovered one of the hidden gems in Asia?
Go north. Far north.
Pagudpud is located at the very top of Luzon island. Saud Beach is often called the “Boracay of the North,” but without the parties.
My Experience:
I sat on this beach for three hours and saw two other people. The wind is strong here. The waves can be big. It feels raw and untouched.
Travel Tip:
This is a long journey. You can take a bus from Manila (10-12 hours) or fly to Laoag City and take a van. It is an adventure just getting there.
6. Bantayan Island, Cebu
If you want the village life, go to Bantayan.
This island feels like the Philippines from twenty years ago. There are no high-rise hotels. The locals are incredibly friendly.
The beaches here have wide sandbars. During low tide, the water retreats, leaving vast stretches of wet sand that reflect the sky.
Where to Eat:
Go to the town of MJ Square. You can buy fresh scallops for pennies. They grill them with butter and garlic. I ate two plates by myself. No regrets.
Accommodation:
Look for beach cottages. They are affordable and often right on the water.
7. Alona Beach, Panglao (Bohol)
Bohol is a great all-arounder. It has the beach, but it also has land attractions.
Alona Beach is the tourist hub. It is busy, yes. But it is a great base of operations. The sand is white, and the nightlife is fun without being rowdy.
Why choose Bohol?
You can spend the morning at the beach. In the afternoon, you can visit the Chocolate Hills. You can also see the Tarsier, the world’s smallest primate.
Logistics:
Fly directly into the new Bohol-Panglao International Airport. It is just minutes away from the beach.
8. Calaguas Islands, Camarines Norte
This is for the true adventurers.
Calaguas (specifically Mahabang Buhangin) is remote. For a long time, there was no electricity or phone signal.
It is changing now, but it remains pristine. The sand is arguably whiter than Boracay. The water is a striking shade of blue.
The Journey:
You have to take a bus to Daet. Then, you take a boat for two hours across the open ocean. The ride can be rough.
Why go?
To disconnect. You camp in tents or stay in simple kubos (huts). You drink rum by a bonfire. You look at stars that are invisible in the city. It is pure magic.
Practical Guide for Your Trip
To make your trip smooth, here are some actionable tips on budget and safety.
Budgeting for the Philippines
The Philippines is very affordable compared to the West.
- Hostel dorm: $10 – $15 USD per night.
- Hotel room: $30 – $80 USD per night.
- Local meal: $2 – $5 USD.
- Beer: $1 – $2 USD.
Getting Around
- Tricycles: These are motorbikes with sidecars. Negotiate the price before you get in.
- Grab App: Download this immediately. It is the Uber of Southeast Asia. It works in major cities like Manila and Cebu.
- Ferries: Use reputable companies like OceanJet. Book tickets online if you can.
Safety and Health
- Water: Never drink tap water. Even locals don’t do it. Buy bottled water or bring a filter bottle.
- Mosquitos: Dengue fever is real. Bring strong repellent.
- Stomach: Pack electrolytes and charcoal tablets. Travelers’ tummy happens to the best of us.
The Spirit of the Islands
Traveling through the Philippines changed how I view travel.
It taught me patience. It taught me that the best plans are often the ones you cancel because you found a better beach.
You will get sandy. You will get sunburned. You might miss a ferry. But you will also meet people who treat you like family. You will see sunsets that break your heart with their beauty.
If you are looking for islands in Asia that offer adventure and peace, look no further.
So, what are you waiting for?
Pack your bags and discover the magic of Asia!
“Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer.”