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No.1 El Nido, Palawan - Where Paradise Becomes Reality
El Nido - the kind of place that makes you rub your eyes in disbelief. Nestled at the northern tip of Palawan. It's the Philippines' postcard come to life, consistently ranked among Asia's top beach destinations by Condé Nast Traveler.
Island hopping tours are the best way to explore. You'll visit several islands and lagoons, swim in water so clear it looks like glass, and stop at secret beaches for fresh grilled seafood lunch. Tour A and C are the best.
Top Attractions in El Nido
The Big Lagoon is like entering another world. Your boat glides through towering limestone walls into calm, crystal-clear waters. Many visitors say it feels like being in a natural cathedral. You can kayak here, and the water is so clear you can see straight to the bottom.
Hidden Beach lives up to its name - you can only reach it by swimming through a small hole in the limestone rocks. Once inside, you find yourself in a perfect circle of beach surrounded by high cliffs. It feels like discovering your own private paradise.
Snake Island isn't really about snakes - it's named for its S-shaped sandbar that appears during low tide. You can walk along this natural bridge in the middle of the sea, with blue water on both sides. It's one of those rare places that looks even better in real life than in photos.
The Secret Lagoon holds another surprise in El Nido. You enter through a small hole in the rocks to find a perfectly hidden beach inside the limestone walls. Local guides know exactly when to visit so you can see sunbeams creating natural spotlights through gaps in the rocks.
What to Do in El Nido? Top 13 El Nido Things to Do (2025)
El Nido Itinerary: 4 DIY Ideas for 3-5 Days Trip to El Nido
No.2 Coron, Palawan - The Underwater Kingdom of the Philippines
Coron is famous for its World War II shipwrecks, submerged in shallow turquoise waters, and its dramatic karst landscapes that rival Ha Long Bay. It's less polished than El Nido but rewards visitors with untouched beaches, hidden lagoons, and a sense of discovery.
The best way to explore Coron is by joining island hopping tours. Tour A and Reef & Wreck Tour are most popular. Start early in the morning when the water is calmest. Most tours include visits to several islands, hidden lagoons, and snorkeling spots. Local guides know exactly when to visit each place to avoid crowds and catch the best lighting for photos.
Where to Go in Coron, Palawan
First, the legendary wreck diving. Over a dozen WWII Japanese ships rest in shallow bays, their rusted hulls now home to parrotfish and sea turtles. The Irako Maru wreck sits perfectly upright at 30m depth - swimming through its intact corridors feels like entering a sunken museum.
The jewel of Coron is Kayangan Lake, often called the cleanest lake in Asia. Reaching it requires a short climb up limestone steps, but the view at the top is the most photographed scene in Coron - limestone cliffs meeting crystal-clear waters. The lake itself is a mix of fresh and salt water, creating this amazing blue-green color that seems to glow from within.
Twin Lagoons offers a unique experience where you swim through a small crevice in the limestone to discover a hidden lagoon. The water here has distinct layers - warm saltwater on top and cool freshwater below. Swimming through these layers feels like moving between two different worlds.
Barracuda Lake is another natural wonder. Local guides call it the "hot and cold" lake because the temperature changes dramatically as you swim deeper. The limestone walls underwater are like natural sculptures, and sometimes you can spot gentle barracudas gliding by.
The Siete Pecados Marine Park shows off Coron's incredible sea life. The coral gardens here are home to colorful fish, and the water is so clear you can see everything while snorkeling. Early morning is the best time to visit when the water is calmest and the fish are most active.
10 Best Things to Do in Coron: Places to Visit & Travel Tips
How Many Days in Coron: Coron Itinerary 1,2,3,4 & 5 Days [2025]
No.3 Bohol - Nature's Wonder Island in the Philippines
Bohol is nestled in the Central Visayas region, nearby Cebu. Bohol is famous for its Chocolate Hills - 1,268 dome-shaped limestone mounds that turn brown in dry season, resembling giant chocolates. It's also home to the world's smallest primate, the tarsier, and the Loboc River, where jungle cruises feel like floating through a postcard.
The best way to explore Bohol is by taking a countryside tour, usually starting with the Chocolate Hills and including stops at the Butterfly Sanctuary, historic churches, and local craft villages. Many people combine this with a river cruise. For Panglao, join island hopping tours to discover hidden beaches and snorkeling spots.
You should plan to spend at least 3 days here - one for the Chocolate Hills and Bohol countryside tour, one for the river and wildlife experiences, and one for beach time on Panglao. The best time to visit is during the dry season (December to May) when the hills turn their famous chocolate color.
How to Visit Bohol
The Chocolate Hills are Bohol's most famous sight. Over 1,200 perfectly cone-shaped hills that turn chocolate brown during the dry season. These hills are so unique that they appear on the Philippine peso bill. The best view is from the viewing deck early morning or at sunset.
Bohol is home to the tarsier, one of the world's smallest primates. These tiny creatures, with eyes almost as big as their brains, can only be found in a few places on Earth. At the Tarsier Sanctuary, you can see them in their natural habitat.
Along the Loboc River, you can take a lunch cruise on traditional floating restaurants. While sailing past villages and jungle, local musicians perform Filipino songs.
Panglao Island, connected to Bohol by bridge, offers beautiful white sand beaches. Alona Beach is the most famous.
Bohol Itinerary: How to Spend 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 Days in Bohol
Activities in Bohol: 13 Things to Do & Places to Visit
No.4 Boracay: The Philippines' Beach Paradise
Nestled in the Western Visayas region, Boracay is a tiny island (just 10 km²) that packs a punch. White Beach, the heart of Boracay, stretches for four kilometers and is often ranked among the world's best beaches. The sand here is special - it stays cool even under the hot sun and feels like powdered sugar. The beach is divided into three stations, each with its own character.
After a 2018–2020 rehabilitation to restore its ecosystem, Boracay rebounded as a model of sustainable tourism, blending luxury resorts with eco-conscious policies.
Station 1 has luxury resorts and the widest beach area, Station 2 is the lively center, and Station 3 offers a quieter, more laid-back vibe.
Must-Do Experiences In Boracay
- Island-Hopping: Snorkel at Crocodile Island, swim in Crystal Cove's tidal pools, and cliff-jump at Ariel's Point.
- Parasailing & Kiteboarding: Soar above the sea or ride the winds at Bulabog Beach (Nov–May).
- Sunset Sailing: Charter a paraw (traditional sailboat) for a golden-hour cruise.
- Diniwid Beach: Escape crowds at this quieter cove with Instagram-worthy rock formations.
No.5 Cebu: The Queen City of the South
Cebu, one of the Philippines' most exciting destinations. Known as the "Queen City of the South," Cebu was where the Spanish first settled in the Philippines. This long, narrow island packs in 500 years of history, world-class diving, and some of the country's most spectacular waterfalls into one unforgettable destination.
Start in Cebu City, where the oldest Spanish fort in Asia (Fort San Pedro) stands just blocks from bustling markets selling the sweetest mangoes you'll ever taste.
Then head south where the real magic begins - the Kawasan Falls tumble down three tiers of turquoise pools perfect for canyoneering, while Moalboal's sardine run lets you swim through shimmering silver clouds of fish just offshore.
Best Ways to Experience Cebu
- Island-hopping by motorbike - Cruise the coastal roads to hidden gems like Badian Island.
- Heritage walk in Cebu City - Visit Magellan's Cross where Christianity began in Asia.
- Swim with Whale Sharks in Oslob: Get up close with gentle giants (ethically debated—opt for snorkeling over feeding).
- Kawasan Falls: It's probably Cebu's most photographed natural wonder. You can try canyoneering her. Jumping from cliffs into natural pools and sliding down water-worn rock faces.
- Moalboal offers one of the most amazing underwater experiences - the sardine run. Millions of sardines create a massive silver wall in the water, and you can swim right through it.
Top 10 Tourist Destinations in Cebu: Attractions & Activities
Cebu Itinerary: How Many Days in Cebu? (1-5 Days)
No.6 Siargao - Surfing Capital of the Philippines
Siargao, a teardrop-shaped island that's become the Philippines' surfing paradise. Known as the "Surfing Capital of the Philippines," this laid-back island offers more than just perfect waves.
The best way to explore Siargao is to rent a motorbike or join organized tours. Island hopping tours usually visit three islands (Naked, Guyam, and Daku) in one day. For surfing, start with a lesson at Jacking Horse before trying other spots. Many places are connected by scenic roads lined with palm trees - riding through these is an experience itself. Click for more Philippines Surfing Spots>>
Highlights of Siargao
Cloud 9, the island's most famous surf spot, has earned international recognition. The wave here is so perfectly shaped that it's featured in international surf competitions.
Even if you don't surf, the Cloud 9 boardwalk at sunset is magical - watch experienced surfers ride waves while the sky turns golden. For beginners, Jacking Horse Beach offers gentler waves and plenty of surf instructors.
The Magpupungko Rock Pools are natural infinity pools carved into the rocky coast. During low tide, these pools fill with crystal-clear water, perfect for swimming.
Sohoton Cove needs to be on your list. Hidden within a network of small islands, you'll find blue lagoons and secret caves. The jellyfish sanctuary here is special - you can swim with stingless jellyfish.
Siargao Attractions: 10 Best Things to Do in Siargao (With Itinerary)
No.7 Siquijor: The Mystic Island of the Philippines
Nestled in the Central Visayas, Siquijor is a small, mystical island often called the “Island of Fire” due to its folklore of healers, witches, and magical rituals. Beyond its legends, Siquijor dazzles with white-sand beaches, waterfalls, and lush forests, making it a haven for travelers seeking mystery and natural beauty.
Siquijor is renowned for its healing traditions and annual Holy Week festivals, where shamans create potions and perform rituals. It's also home to Cambugahay Falls, a tiered turquoise waterfall, and Salagdoong Beach, famous for cliff-jumping into crystal-clear waters.
Must-Do Experiences
- Cambugahay Falls: Swing on ropes into emerald pools or relax under cascading waters.
- Salagdoong Beach: Dive off cliffs (5–10 meters) or snorkel in vibrant coral gardens.
- Old Enchanted Balete Tree: Visit this 400-year-old tree with a natural fish spa at its roots.
- San Juan Beach: Unwind on powdery sand and watch fiery sunsets.
No.8 Vigan: A UNESCO World Heritage
Vigan, one of Asia's best-preserved Spanish colonial towns and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Located in northern Philippines, this historic city takes you back to the 16th century with its cobblestone streets, ancestral houses, and horse-drawn carriages.
Vigan is celebrated for its Calle Crisologo, a historic street lined with centuries-old mansions turned museums, shops, and cafes. It's a testament to the Philippines' colonial past and a hub for culture, history, and culinary traditions. The city is also famed for its burnay pottery (traditional clay jars) and empanadas (savory stuffed pastries).
The best way to explore Vigan is by taking a kalesa (horse-drawn carriage) tour, especially early morning or late afternoon when it's cooler. Walking tours are also excellent - the historic district is compact and full of hidden corners to discover.
10 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in the Philippines
No.9 Banaue Rice Terraces
Banaue Rice Terraces, often called the "Eighth Wonder of the World" and a UNESCO World Heritage site. These 2,000-year-old terraces were carved into the mountains of Ifugao by ancient indigenous peoples, creating what looks like stairs reaching to the heavens. If the terraces were laid end to end, they would circle half the globe.
The main Banaue viewing point offers the most famous vista - layers of green terraces following the mountain's natural curves. Early morning is magical here, when mist rolls through the valleys and the rising sun gradually illuminates each level. This view is so iconic it once appeared on the Philippine 1000-peso note.
Batad Rice Terraces, a part of the Banaue complex, shows the most dramatic amphitheater-like layout. These terraces form a perfect semicircle, and reaching them requires a moderate trek. The effort is worth it - this is where you'll find the most pristine and photogenic terraces.
Need a customized Philippines tour to the Banaue Rice Terraces? Just use Asia Odyssey Travel!
No.10 Manila - History Relics in Capital of the Philippines
Manila, the vibrant capital of the Philippines, is a city of contrasts where Spanish colonial history collides with modern skyscrapers and bustling street life.
Manila is famed for Intramuros, the 16th-century "Walled City" built by Spanish colonizers, and Rizal Park, a historic landmark dedicated to the nation's hero, Dr. José Rizal. While it's not known for natural beauty like Palawan or Boracay, Manila's energy, museums, and food scene make it a gateway to understanding Filipino identity.
Must-Do Experiences in Manila
- Intramuros Walking Tour: Explore cobblestone streets, Fort Santiago, and San Agustin Church (UNESCO site). Ride a kalesa (horse-drawn carriage) for old-world vibes.
- Binondo (Chinatown): Feast on dumplings, pancit (noodles), and hopia (pastries) in the world's oldest Chinatown.
- National Museum Complex: Dive into Filipino art, history, and anthropology for free.
- Sunset at Manila Bay: Watch the sky turn fiery over the iconic Manila Hotel and yachts.
What to Do in Manila for a Day or More? 17 Manila Must-Dos
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