The struggle is real when it comes to identifying the most beautiful islands in the Philippines. You literally have over 7,000 options on the list and it is hard to pick which is truly the fairest of them all. But for your next travel’s sake, we’ve cataloged a total of 15 destinations that show there are as many different definitions of exquisiteness as there are islands.
1. Panglao Island
This island in the province of Bohol is a mecca for beachcombers and divers. You can have an unlimited dose of sun, sea, and sand on the beaches of Alona, Bagobo, Bolod, Danao, Doljo, and Momo. If you wish to explore what is beneath its cerulean waters, diving sites such as Balicasag Island, Cabilao Island, Pamilacan Island, and Habagat Shipwreck are just a short boat ride away from the shore. The stunning reefs and diverse marine life will leave you spellbound.
How to get there?
Take a flight to Bohol-Panglao International Airport. Two bridges connect Panglao to the mainland of Bohol where you can enjoy a countryside trip. The usual itinerary includes the world-famous Chocolate Hills.
2. Siquijor
Stories of witchcraft and sorcery abound in this infamous island province. But the real other-worldly magic that Siquijor holds is its well-preserved beauty. You’ll know why it is called the Mystic Island of Central Visayas once you take a glimpse of Cambugahay and Lugnason Falls, Salagdoong and Paliton Beaches, and Bandila-an Nature Reserve.
How to get there?
Take a flight to Dumaguete–Sibulan Airport in Negros Oriental. Head to the seaport and ride a Siquijor-bound ferry.
3. Arrecife Island
Popularly known as Dos Palmas, Arrecife is an ecological haven in Puerto Princesa, Palawan. Set amidst pristine natural surroundings, this is home to more than 300 species of fish, corals, mollusks, and crustaceans and at least 95 species of migratory and non-migratory birds. Its shore is also a nesting site and feeding ground for three species of sea turtles.
How to get there?
Book a stay at Dos Palmas Island Resort. From Puerto Princesa International Airport, private transport will take you to the municipal wharf in Sta. Lourdes. The resort’s private outrigger boat awaits there to ferry you across Honda Bay to Arrecife in just under an hour.
4. Coron Islands
This is another must-visit destination in Palawan that needs no introduction. This group of islands in the Calamian archipelago features majestic limestone karst landscapes, World War II-era wreck diving sites, crystal-clear freshwater lakes, and stunning shallow-water coral reefs. Top attractions that you shouldn’t miss include Kayangan Lake, Twin Lagoon, and Barracuda Lake. Coron is one of the many reasons why Palawan reclaimed its spot as Conde Nast Traveler’s Best Island in the World in 2020.
How to get there?
Take a flight to Francisco B. Reyes Airport in Busuanga.
5. Camiguin
Camiguin is solid proof that size doesn’t matter. It may be the smallest island in Mindanao and the country’s second-smallest province, but it has a lot of tourist spots to offer. This compact destination cradles natural springs, impressive waterfalls, and immaculate beaches. Its most famous attraction is the mysterious Sunken Cemetery that was buried in lava when Mt. Vulcan erupted in the 1870s.
Known as the island born of fire, Camiguin is surrounded by seven volcanoes that continuously reshape its landscape.
How to get there?
Cagayan de Oro City is the most usual gateway to Camiguin. Take a flight to Laguindingan International Airport in Misamis Oriental.
6. Siargao
Apart from being the surfing capital of the Philippines, Siargao presents a laid-back sanctuary for weary souls. Here, your Instagram feed will surely be filled with beautiful snaps of its pristine beaches, coconut woodlands, and lush mangrove forests. Siargao is also one of the best islands in the Philippines for a honeymoon. Traveling couples frequent Sugba Lagoon, Sohoton Cove, Taktak Falls, and Magpupungko Rock Pools.
How to get there?
Take a flight to Sayak Airport.
7. Caramoan Islands
This group of islands that stem from a peninsula in Camarines Sur is popularized by its appearances in several franchises of the reality show “Survivor.” An endless summer awaits in Katanhawan Small, Katanhawan Grande, Matukad Island, Lahos Island, and Lantanganan Island. Expect white- and pink-sand beaches, enchanting caves, hidden coves, and teeming marine life. Simply put, these hideaways are unexploited and uninhabited pieces of paradise!
How to get there?
Take a flight to Naga City Airport, then ride a van or bus to Sabang Port. A passenger boat will then take you to Guijalo Port.
8. Tinaga Island
This remote haven in Camarines Norte is a spectacle not seen in other parts of the Philippines. Known as the main attraction of the Calaguas Islands, Tinaga features a long stretch of powdery white sand and aquamarine waters that radiate under the sun. Take it from local travel vlogger Bicolanong Lakwatsero: “There’s something about the rawness of this beach that just gets you really close to nature.”
How to get there?
If you’re coming from Manila, take a bus going to Daet, then ride a jeepney to Minaogan Port. A passenger boat will then take you to Tinaga.
9. Colibra Island
This islet, which is also known as Camaso Island and Snake Island, proves that there is more to Pangasinan than the Hundred Islands and the church of the Lady of Manaoag. Travelers fall in love with Colibra because of its splendid dune-like sand, glistening azure waters, and picture-perfect sunsets. The rock formations around the beach complete its striking landscape.
How to get there?
Head to Tambobong Beach in the town of Dasol and hire an outrigger boat that will bring you to the island.
10. Apo Island
Live your mermaid fantasy on this small volcanic island on the southeastern tip of Negros Oriental. It is a marine sanctuary where you can swim with the sea turtles as they roam around the corals. Apo is also an easy favorite for divers. One of the most frequented sites on the island is Coconut Point. Dubbed by divers as “the washing machine,” it is a 5 to 35-meter deep sloping spot where divers usually experience a push coming from all sides due to strong currents.
How to get there?
Take a flight to Dumaguete–Sibulan Airport, then ride a boat from the town of Zamboangita.
From the sun-kissed shores of Panglao Island to the mystical allure of Siquijor, each destination offers its own unique charm and natural wonders. Whether you’re craving adventure, relaxation, or simply some good old-fashioned island hopping, there’s something for everyone to discover in the Philippines.
So pack your bags, book your tickets, and get ready for the island-hopping adventure of a lifetime. With so many stunning destinations to explore, the only question is: where will you go first?
