The 10 best Philippines islands you can’t miss

Isolated white-sand beaches, reefs teeming with marine life, cascading rice terraces – it’s no wonder that the Philippines is thought of as paradise. And there’s even more than meets the eye, from the world’s smallest primate to the unique hanging coffins of Sagada. Yet, with well over 7,000 islands you can get overwhelmed by what’s on offer. Whatever kind of trip you’re after, here’s our guide to the best Philippines islands.

10. For getting off the beaten track: Ticao

Ticao Island, part of Masbate Province, is a remote gem perfect for divers and nature lovers seeking peace and quiet. It’s best known for the Manta Bowl, one of the Philippines’ most famous dive sites, where you can swim alongside manta rays, whale sharks, and even hammerhead sharks. The waters are pristine and teeming with marine life, making it a dream destination for experienced divers.

On land, Ticao remains blissfully untouched. Its waterfalls, secluded beaches, and lush rainforests provide plenty of opportunities for adventure or simple relaxation. This is not a place for nightlife or luxury resorts — it’s all about reconnecting with nature and embracing simplicity.

Accommodation options are limited, but Ticao Island resorts offer rustic beachfront cottages, dive packages, and easy access to the Manta Bowl. The island’s remoteness is part of its charm but may not suit everyone. It’s best visited by those who enjoy quiet escapes and love exploring the underwater world.

9. For rural atmosphere: Guimaras

Guimaras is a small island best known for its mangoes - the sweetest in the Philippines, if not the world. Every May, the island hosts the Manggahan Festival, a lively event celebrating this prized fruit. Aside from mangoes, Guimaras offers rolling hills, quiet beaches and calm waters, making it an ideal destination for laid-back travelers looking to escape the crowds of tourists on the more famous islands.

Highlights include Alubihod Beach, which offers calm waters for swimming, and the Taklong Island Marine Reserve, ideal for kayaking and snorkeling. Island-hopping tours take you to nearby islets, where you’ll find more secluded beaches and excellent spots for a picnic.

While Guimaras lacks the dramatic landscapes of other islands, its charm lies in its simplicity and quiet pace of life. Stay at Nature’s Eye Resort for an eco-friendly retreat with incredible sea views or SunSea Resort, a budget-friendly option near Alubihod Beach.

8. For snorkeling: Apo Island

Apo Island, located off the coast of Negros Oriental, is a haven for divers and snorkelers. Surrounded by a marine sanctuary, the island is home to vibrant coral gardens and an abundance of marine life, including sea turtles that you can swim with just a few meters from the shore. Apo’s pristine underwater world makes it one of the best snorkeling spots among the Philippines islands.

The island is small, with no major towns or fancy resorts, but this is part of its charm. Apo offers an authentic, eco-friendly experience for travelers who appreciate simple pleasures. On land, the island has basic hiking trails that lead to panoramic viewpoints, making it a great spot for a short adventure.

7: For reef diving: Mindoro

Mindoro is a diverse island that will appeal to partygoers and nature lovers alike. In the north of the island is Puerto Galera with lively beaches, colorful coral reefs and a thriving nightlife. Popular beaches such as White Beach offer water sports and sunset parties, while dive sites such as Isla Verde Passage are full of marine life.

In the south, you’ll find Apo Reef, the world’s second-largest contiguous coral reef, offering unparalleled diving opportunities. Mindoro’s inland adventures include trekking up Mount Halcon, a challenging climb rewarded with stunning views of the island’s lush landscapes.

Despite its many attractions, Mindoro’s spread-out geography makes exploring a bit challenging. For accommodations, Playa Blanca Beach Resort is ideal for divers visiting Puerto Galera, while Blue Crystal Beach Resort offers luxurious beachfront stays. Whether you’re looking to party or explore, Mindoro has something for everyone.

Editor's tip: When diving at Apo Reef, avoid touching coral reefs to help preserve the marine ecosystem.

6. For diversity: Luzon

Luzon is the largest and most diverse island in the Philippines, offering everything from cultural landmarks to natural wonders. The northern region is home to the Banaue Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage Site carved into the mountains over 2,000 years ago by the Ifugao people. Nearby, Sagada offers mystical experiences, including the hanging coffins and Sumaguing Cave for spelunking adventures.

In southern Luzon, you’ll find Mount Mayon, a perfectly conical active volcano, surrounded by lush greenery and hiking trails. The chaotic capital of Manila, located in central Luzon, serves as the main gateway to the island’s attractions.

Exploring Luzon requires time and effort due to its vast size, but its rewards are well worth it. For accommodations, the Farm at San Benito offers a luxurious wellness retreat, while Timberland Highlands Resort is ideal for family-friendly stays near Manila.

5. For surfing: Siargao

Siargao, known as the surfing capital of the Philippines, is famous for its legendary Cloud 9 wave. Even if you’re not into surfing, the island has plenty to offer. Swim in the crystal-clear Magpupungko Rock Pools, kayak through Sugba Lagoon, or go island-hopping to nearby spots like Naked Island and Guyam Island.

The island’s laid-back vibe, palm-lined roads, and emerging café culture have made it a favorite among backpackers and digital nomads. However, Siargao’s growing popularity has brought development and larger crowds, so plan your visit during the off-season for a quieter experience.

For accommodations, stay at DaRosa Del Mar for a peaceful beachfront retreat or Hiraya Surf Hostel for budget-friendly, social vibes. Siargao is all about embracing the slow life, whether you’re catching waves or sipping coffee at a beachside café.

Editor's tip: Choose accommodations that support eco-friendly initiatives, and say no to single-use plastics to protect Siargao’s fragile environment

4. For nature: Bohol

Bohol is an island of contrasts, offering a mix of natural wonders, wildlife and cultural heritage. The Chocolate Hills, a geological phenomenon consisting of more than 1,000 symmetrical mounds, are the island's most iconic landmark, turning brown in the dry season and green in the wet season. Wildlife lovers should definitely visit the Tarsier Reserve, where you can see the world's smallest primates in their natural habitat.

Panglao Island, connected to Bohol by a bridge, is home to stunning white-sand beaches such as Alona Beach and some of the best diving spots in the country. Beyond the coast, take a cruise along the Loboc River, surrounded by lush jungle, or visit the Baclayon Church, one of the oldest in the Philippines.

While Bohol’s attractions are diverse, they’re spread out, requiring some planning to see everything. For accommodations, South Palms Resort Panglao offers beachfront luxury, while Fox & The Firefly Cottages near the Loboc River provide eco-friendly charm in a serene setting.

3. For adventure sports: Boracay

Boracay is famous for White Beach, a 4-kilometer stretch of powdery white sand and crystal-clear water that’s often ranked among the best beaches in the world. Following its 2018 rehabilitation, the island is now cleaner and more organized, with new regulations that limit tourist numbers to preserve its beauty. By day, enjoy water sports like parasailing and paddleboarding; by night, indulge in beachfront bars and lively parties.

For a quieter escape, head to Puka Beach, a more secluded stretch of sand known for its natural charm. If you’re into adrenaline, visit Bulabog Beach for kitesurfing and windsurfing. While Boracay is stunning, it remains one of the busiest Philippines islands, so it may not suit those seeking solitude.

Stay at the Lind Boracay for luxury and stunning beachfront views, or choose 7Stones Boracay for a boutique-style experience near the action but away from the crowds.

2. For a variety of experiences: Cebu

Cebu is a dynamic island that offers a little bit of everything: history, adventure, and stunning beaches. In the south, adrenaline junkies can try canyoneering at Kawasan Falls, a series of turquoise waterfalls surrounded by lush jungle. Moalboal is another must-visit, where you can snorkel with millions of sardines during the famous sardine run or explore vibrant coral reefs.

Cebu City, the island’s urban hub, is steeped in history. Visit landmarks like Magellan’s Cross and the Basilica del Santo Niño, which date back to the Spanish colonization of the Philippines. For beach lovers, nearby islands like Malapascua (famous for thresher sharks) and Bantayan (known for its serene beaches) are just a boat ride away.

1. For beaches and wildlife: Palawan (including Coron and El Nido)

Palawan remains a favorite among travelers for a reason, thanks in large part to its constituent islands of Coronu and El Nido. Its capital, Puerto Princesa, is carbon-free, and stunning beaches like Nacpan near El Nido beckon vacationers every year. 

The island is best experienced on the water — go island-hopping through hidden coves, snorkel vibrant reefs, or visit the Puerto Princesa Underground River, a UNESCO-listed wonder running beneath the St. Paul Mountain Range.

Coron, part of Palawan, is a diver's paradise, with World War II shipwrecks transformed into thriving reefs. Above the water is Kayangan Lake, striking with its limestone cliffs and crystal clear waters, perfect for exploring.

For accommodations, try Sunset Colors in Port Barton for a relaxing beach escape or the Funny Lion in Coron for stylish comfort with stunning views.

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