Tropical paradise: that’s what awaits travellers visiting the Philippines. Imagine swaying palm trees, glistening white sands, and striking turquoise waters. The archipelago has more than 7,000 islands, so there’s a nearly endless stretch of coastline to explore. Whether you’re looking to relax in a seafront bar, ride the perfect wave, or go snorkelling, here’s a guide to the best beaches in the Philippines.
White Beach, Port Barton
Although not as famous as Boracay’s White Beach, Port Barton offers something just as special. This largely undeveloped beach is accessible via taxi boat or hike, and depending on the time of day, you might encounter only a few other people. White Beach may not be touristy, but it still offers essential facilities, such as toilets, a restaurant, and hammocks. You may also encounter friendly beach pigs roaming around. Lined by coconut palms and offering a secluded sunbathing spot, this place is a must-visit while in Port Barton. Be aware of the jellyfish if you’re heading into the water.
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Hidden Beach, El Nido
Tucked away behind towering limestone karsts, you’ll find pristine white sands and turquoise waters surrounded by lush greenery and coconut palms. As the name suggests, Hidden Beach is in a relatively secluded location and is accessible only by boat. Luckily, island-hopping tours run to this part of El Nido, where you’ll stop off at various beaches and snorkelling spots to take in all that the Philippines has to offer. Thanks to the cove’s clear and calm waters, Hidden Beach is a popular swimming spot. Those with snorkelling gear might spot clownfish and other tropical marine life. Wear water shoes because the coral and rocks can be sharp.
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Paradise Beach, Bantayan Island
Paradise Beach is one of the best beaches in the Philippines for travellers after a more authentic vibe. Find this beach on Bantayan Island, about 5km (3 mi) from Santa Fe. Many people choose to travel here by scooter. Paradise Beach is a popular spot with locals, especially on the weekends, and it’s a great place to relax. Chill and unwind as you feel the soft sand through your toes, feel the warmth on your cheeks as you take in the views, and grab a beer to watch the sunset. Paradise Beach doesn't have much shade, so load up on SPF, drink plenty of water, and wear a hat.
Nacpan Beach, El Nido
Nacpan Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the Philippines. You’ll find this crescent-shaped beach in El Nido, on the island of Palawan. Stretching for 4km (2.5 mi), Nacpan Beach offers travellers a relaxing getaway from the busy town of El Nido. Lined by palm trees and boasting crystal-clear waters, it’s the definition of paradise. Aside from relaxing, you can also enjoy various water-based activities, such as snorkelling and paddleboarding. Alternatively, head to one of the local restaurants, where you can dine in a small wooden shack on the shore.
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Dumaluan Beach, Bohol
Located on Panglao Island (which is attached to the island of Bohol), Dumaluan Beach is easily accessible, making it one of the top beaches in the country. With its powdery white sands, clear waters, and fiery sunsets, Dumaluan Beach offers the ultimate relaxing getaway. Enjoy the laid-back vibe, feel all your worries fade away as you relax in a hammock, or head out for a paddle — just beware of the sea urchins. Because the water is so shallow, Dumaluan Beach is a popular spot with families. Along this palm tree-lined stretch of sand are hotels and resorts. You can access the beach only through these properties, so you need to pay an entrance fee.
Las Cabañas Beach, El Nido
Dreaming of swaying coconut palms, quaint beach shacks, and vivid sunsets? That’s exactly what you’ll find at Las Cabañas Beach. Just a short tricycle ride from El Nido Beach, Las Cabañas is a must-visit for anyone exploring Palawan, especially because a variety of restaurants and bars line the shore. Time your visit with the sunset, and you’ll get to watch fiery pink and orange hues dance across the sky as you dine. From the shore, you can spot Depeldet Island. Daredevils can hop on the El Nido zip line, which takes you on a thrilling ride to this island.
Puka Shell Beach, Boracay
Boracay is one of the most beautiful islands in the Philippines, offering an array of dazzling destinations, one of which is Puka Shell Beach. Puka Shell Beach is one of the longest stretches of sand on Boracay and is known for its unspoiled beauty. This beach gets its name from the abundance of its namesake shells, which can be found along its shore. Although beautiful, these shells can be tough on your feet, so pack some sandals. Puka Shell Beach is also home to Boracay's flying foxes, which can be seen gliding around at night. They have wingspans of up to 2m (6.5 ft), so they are easy to spot.
Cloud 9, Siargao
On the island of Siargao, the Philippines' surf capital, Cloud 9 offers surfers the chance to catch waves up to 1.8m (6 ft) tall. It's one of the country’s most famous surfing spots and hosts the annual Siargao International Surfing Cup. Ride the best waves between September and March. Although it can get crowded, Cloud 9 attracts surfers from all across the world for a reason. Even travellers who don’t like to surf can enjoy the atmosphere. The beach is popular with swimmers because the waters are relatively calm and shallow before you get out into the surf. Watch surfers do their thing from the safety of the boardwalk.
Pass Island, Palawan
This small island is what first comes to mind when thinking about a tropical paradise: white sands, turquoise waters, and palm trees. Pass Island also offers some of the best snorkelling spots in the Philippines because the shore is surrounded by colourful coral and tropical fish, as well as the occasional turtle. Scuba diving is an excellent activity for those who are qualified. Looking to just kick back and relax? Not to worry — Pass Island allows you to embrace the Philippines’ tranquillity because you’ll spend the day on a secluded island away from the crowds, just taking in the area’s beauty. If you really want to get away from it all, it’s also possible to camp overnight.
White Island, Camiguin
Although places such as Cebu, Malapascua, and Coron offer the best diving in the Philippines, White Island is still a must-visit for those who wish to explore beneath the waves. This uninhabited white sandbar is approximately 1km (0.6 mi) from Camiguin and offers a black coral garden. Divers have the chance to spot various sea creatures, including hawksbill turtles, moray eels, groupers, and scorpionfish. When you’re not diving, take in the charming mountain views while relaxing on the shore — bring an umbrella along because there’s no shade. To reach White Island, take a boat from the White Island Ferry Terminal in Mambajao. The journey takes approximately 10 minutes.
Bulabog Beach, Boracay
If you don’t like to sit still, Bulabog Beach is one of the best beaches in the Philippines. Some travellers would prefer not to spend hours sunbathing on a beach, and if that’s you, you’re in luck. Bulabog Beach is a hot spot for watersports, where you can try a whole host of activities. Because of the beach’s location and its strong winds, kitesurfing, windsurfing, and parasailing are popular, and banana boating and jet skiing are also offered. Photographers love the iconic leaning coconut tree, while other beachgoers can catch some rays, visit the nearby shopping mall, and watch the sunset.
Alona Beach, Bohol
Like Dumaluan Beach, Alona Beach is located on Panglao Island. Alona Beach is the more popular of the two and is quickly becoming a favourite destination for travellers. Its broad sandy shores are lined with restaurants, beach bars, and accommodations, ranging from budget guesthouses to five-star hotels. All the amenities you need are at your fingertips. During the day, you can appreciate the sandy white shores and crystal-clear waters, but Alona Beach really comes alive at night. Enjoy live music, gather around driftwood fires, and indulge in delicious barbecued seafood after the sun has gone down.
