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Top Islands & Best Things to Do in Philippines
With over 7,200 islands to choose from, planning your Philippines adventure can feel a little confused. But don’t worry, Asia Odyssey Travel have narrowed it down to six of the best.
El Nido – Dramatic Cliffs & Dreamy Lagoons
El Nido is straight out of a postcard: limestone cliffs towering over turquoise lagoons, secret beaches, and karst islands that make you feel like you're in a tropical fantasy movie. It is the dream for island-hopping.
Best things to do:
- Join an island-hopping tour (especially Tour A & C for Big Lagoon and Secret Beach)
- Snorkel in crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life
- Kayak around Bacuit Bay
- Watch the sunset at Las Cabanas Beach
Coron – Shipwreck Diving & Hidden Lakes
Coron feels like El Nido’s wilder neighbor: stunning, yet raw and thrilling. It’s famous for world-class WWII shipwreck dives and stunning lakes tucked inside jagged cliffs.
Best things to do:
- Dive (or snorkel) around Japanese shipwrecks
- Take a boat trip to Kayangan Lake, one of the clearest lakes in Asia
- Chill at Twin Lagoon and Barracuda Lake
- Soak in the Maquinit Hot Springs after a day of exploring
- Hike up Mt. Tapyas for panoramic sunset views
Bohol – Chocolate Hills & Tarsiers
Bohol is where lush countryside meets powdery beaches. It's the perfect mix of nature, adventure, and quirky wildlife. It’s great for families and travelers who want both nature and chill time.
Best things to do:
- See the iconic Chocolate Hills (they turn brown in the dry season!)
- Visit the adorable (and wide-eyed) tarsiers
- Cruise the Loboc River by boat or paddleboard
- Go island hopping to Balicasag and Virgin Island
- Relax on Alona Beach, Panglao Island
Cebu – Waterfalls, Whale Sharks & Culture
Cebu is your all-in-one island. It’s got urban buzz, Spanish colonial history, wild waterfalls, and some of the most unique wildlife encounters in the country. It's perfect for first-timers who want a bit of everything without hopping flights too often.
Best things to do:
- Swim with whale sharks in Oslob (controversial, but popular)
- Chase waterfalls like Kawasan Falls (don’t miss the canyoneering!)
- Island-hop around Moalboal and snorkel with sardine runs and turtles
- Explore historical Cebu City (Magellan’s Cross, Basilica del Santo Niño)
- Head to Malapascua for thresher shark diving
Boracay – White Sand & Island Nightlife
Boracay is the OG beach destination of the Philippines. It’s been cleaned up in recent years, and the powdery white sand at Station 1 is still some of the best in the world. It’s the perfect stop for honeymooners, beach lovers, and anyone who wants a bit of luxury.
Best things to do:
- Beach bum on White Beach and take in those sunsets
- Try paddleboarding, parasailing, or helmet diving
- Go island hopping to Puka Beach and Crystal Cove
- Take a sunset sail on a paraw (local sailboat)
Siargao – Surfing & Island Vibes
Siargao is the surfing capital of the Philippines, but even non-surfers will love its laid-back charm, lagoons, and untouched nature.
Best things to do:
- Surf (or watch the pros) at Cloud 9
- Go island hopping to Daku, Naked, and Guyam Islands
- Swim in the Magpupungko Rock Pools during low tide
10 Most Beautiful Islands in the Philippines (Map & Routes)
How Long to Stay
The Philippines is easy to fall in love with. But with so many islands to choose from, how long should you actually stay?
3–5 Days (Quick Island Escape)
If you’ve only got a few days, pick one island and dive in. El Nido, Coron, Bohol, or Boracay are great picks for a short, scenic journey. You can take a outrigger boat for island-hopping, enjoy diving or snorkeling in the clear water or just lie back on the soft beach.
Don’t be rush and relax your mind! We can help to arrange airport transfers, curated island-hopping, and beachfront stays so you can focus on the experience and landscape.
5 Days in Philippines: 8 Best Philippines 5 Days Itinerary
6–10 Days – Classic Island Hopping Routes
This is the sweet spot for first-timers. With a week or so, you can mix two or three nearby islands, balancing exploration with downtime. Think epic landscapes, waterfall adventures, snorkeling, and sunset sails without feeling rushed.
The Palawan Islands (El Nido and Coron) and Visayas Islands (Bohol, Cebu, Siqujior, and Boracay) are perfect for a first visit for 6-10 days.
Philippines Itinerary 7 Days: 1 Week in Philippines (Map, Cost)
11+ Days – Relaxed Vacation to Multiple Islands
Have more time? Lucky you! With 11 days or more, you can dive deep into the islands and really experience their charm. It's perfect for a relaxed itinerary that still hits multiple hot spots. It’s ideal for slow travelers, families, or honeymooners.
Combine Palawan and Visayas, or even the eastern Siargao, the northern Luzon! We’ll help you connect the dots with smart routes and seamless logistics. Just enjoy your vacation hassle-free!
2 Weeks Philippines Itinerary 2025: Where to Go & Routes
Planning Your Itinerary for First Time
Option 1: El Nido + Coron (7 Days) - Best for adventure seekers
| Day | Destination | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | El Nido | Arrive in El Nido from Manila or other cities. |
| Day 2 | El Nido Ialsnd Hopping Tour A | Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, 7 Commando Beach, Shimizu Island, Payong-Payong Beach |
| Day 3 | El Nido Ialsnd Hopping Tour C | Helicopter Island, Tapiutan Island, Hidden Beach, Secret Beach |
| Day 4 | El Nido → Coron | Mt. Tapyas or Maquinit Hot Spring |
| Day 5 | Coron Ialsnd Hopping Tour A | Kayangan Lake, Green Lagoon, Quin Reef, Atwayan Beach, CYC Beach, Las Isla De Coral |
| Day 6 | Coron Reef and Wrecks Tour | Pass Island, Lusong Coral Garden, Lusong Gunboat, East Tangat Wreck |
| Day 7 | Coron Departure | Fly back to Manila or other cities |
Option 2: Cebu + Bohol + Siquijor + Dumaguete (7 Days) - Best for first-timers
| Day | Destination | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Cebu to Bohol | Half-Day Cebu City Tour: Magellan's Cross, Basilica Minore del Santo Niño, Fort San Pedro, Ferry to Bohol |
| Day 2 | Bohol Countryside Tour | Napaling Reef (Sardine Run Experience), Loboc River Cruise, Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary, Chocolate Hills |
| Day 3 | Bohol → Balicasag → Siquijor | Dolphin Watching, Balicasag Islands |
| Day 4 | Siquijor → Dumaguete | Capilay Spring Park, Tubod Beach, Lugnason Falls, Old Enchanted Balete Tree, Lazi Convent, Kagusuan Beach, Cambugahay Falls |
| Day 5 | Dumaguete → Apo | Apo Island (Sea Turtles) |
| Day 6 | Dumaguete → Oslob → Cebu | Whale Shark Watching, Tumalog Falls |
| Day 7 | Cebu Departure | Fly to Manila or other destinations like Boracay, El Nido. |
Option 3: Manila + Bohol + El Nido + Boracay (10 Days) - Best for relaxed beach vibes
| Day | Destination | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Manila | Arrive in Manila |
| Day 2 | Manila → Bohol | Direct Flight to Bohol Panglao |
| Day 3 | Bohol Countryside Tour | Napaling Reef (Sardine Run Experience), Loboc River Cruise, Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary, Chocolate Hills |
| Day 4 | Bohol → Balicasag | Dolphin Watching, Balicasag Islands |
| Day 5 | Bohol → El Nido | Direct Flight to El Nido |
| Day 6 | El Nido Ialsnd Hopping Tour A | Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, 7 Commando Beach, Shimizu Island, Payong-Payong Beach |
| Day 7 | El Nido Ialsnd Hopping Tour C | Helicopter Island, Tapiutan Island, Hidden Beach, Secret Beach |
| Day 8 | El Nido → Boracay | Direct Flight |
| Day 9 | Boracay | Boracay Island Hopping |
| Day 10 | Boracay | Boracay Departure |
Option 4: El Nido + Coron + Cebu + Bohol + Siquijor + Dumaguete (12 Days)
| Day | Destination | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | El Nido | Arrive in El Nido from Manila or other cities. |
| Day 2 | El Nido Tour A | Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, 7 Commando Beach, Shimizu Island, Payong-Payong Beach |
| Day 3 | El Nido Tour C | Helicopter Island, Tapiutan Island, Hidden Beach, Secret Beach |
| Day 4 | El Nido → Coron | Ferry ride, Mt. Tapyas |
| Day 5 | Coron Tour A | Kayangan Lake, Green Lagoon, Quin Reef, Atwayan Beach, CYC Beach, Las Isla De Coral |
| Day 6 | Coron Reef and Wrecks Tour | Pass Island, Lusong Coral Garden, Lusong Gunboat, East Tangat Wreck |
| Day 7 | Coron → Cebu → Bohol | Fly from Coron to Cebu, then ferry to Bohol, Alona Beach |
| Day 8 | Bohol | Napaling Reef (Sardine Run Experience), Loboc River Cruise, Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary, Chocolate Hills |
| Day 9 | Bohol → Siquijor | Dolphin Watching, Balicasag Islands |
| Day 10 | Siquijor → Dumaguete | Capilay Spring Park, Tubod Beach, Lugnason Falls, Old Enchanted Balete Tree, Lazi Convent, Kagusuan Beach, Cambugahay Falls |
| Day 11 | Dumaguete Island Hopping Tour | Apo Island (Sea Turtles) |
| Day 12 | Dumaguete departure | Dumaguete departure |
Best Time to Visit the Philippines
Honestly speaking, November to April is the sweet spot: sunny skies, zero rain drama, and perfect beach weather. Think crystal-clear waters in El Nido, epic island-hopping in Cebu, and those dreamy Boracay sunsets.
December to February is chef’s kiss: cool breezes, no crazy heat, just pure vacation vibes. But heads up: it’s also peak season, so book early unless you wanna fight over hotel rooms with a bunch of other sun-chasers.
March-April? Still awesome, but hotter. Pack sunscreen (like, a lot), because that tropical sun doesn’t play nice.
Rainy season (May-October) is a mixed bag. Yeah, it’s cheaper and less crowded, but you’ll gamble with rain and the occasional typhoon (July-September is the worst). Some spots, like Siargao, actually get better for surfing around then—but if you’re here for beaches and blue skies, maybe skip it.
Best (& Worse) Time to Visit Philippines: Weather-Wise
How to Get to Philippines
The Philippines is an island nation, so your only option is flying in. The two main entry points are Manila (the capital) and Cebu (the central hub).
Fly to Manila if…
You’re exploring Luzon (like Palawan, Banaue Rice Terraces, or Vigan), or connecting to international flights. Manila’s airport has more global routes, but traffic is insane—avoid long layovers unless you love sitting in cars for hours.
Fly to Cebu if…
You’re hitting the Visayas (Boracay, Bohol, Siargao) or southern islands. Cebu’s airport is smaller, less chaotic, and closer to epic beaches. Plus, you skip Manila’s mess.
Pro tip: If your dream is pure beach life, just fly straight to Cebu. Manila’s a detour unless you really need it.
How to Get to Bohol: Flight/Ferry to Bohol (2025)
How to Get to El Nido? Flights, Vans & Ferries from 4 Key Spots
How to Get to Coron: Getting to Coron from 5 Major Cities of PH
How to Travel around Philippines
Between far islands (e.g., Cebu to El Nido, Cebu to Boracay)? Fly. Domestic flights are cheap and save you from 10-hour ferry rides.
Between nearby islands (e.g., Cebu to Bohol, El Nido to Coron)? Take a ferry (1-5 hours). Some are fancy with AC; others are… adventurous. Pack snacks.
Island-hopping tours? You’ll ride bangka boats (those wooden outriggers with bamboo arms—yes, they look like crabs) or speedboats. Not luxury, but part of the fun.
On land? Your options:
- Tuk-tuks (auto-rickshaws) – For short trips (1-10 people, depending on how brave you are).
- Motorcycles – The go-to in rural areas. Rent one or hop on the back (hold tight!).
- Jeepneys – Colorful, crowded, and chaotic. Try it once for the ‘gram, then maybe stick to Grab (Asia’s Uber).
Rule of thumb: If it’s over water, fly or ferry. On land, tuk-tuks and bikes get you everywhere—just embrace the chaos.
How Much Does it Cost to Travel to Philippines
Good news! the Philippines is one of the most affordable tropical destinations out there. Yep, even cheaper than Thailand in many cases!
Budget Traveler? No problem.
If you’re happy with the basics — local eats, simple stays, and hopping around like a local — you can totally get by on under $80 a day.
Most Travelers Spend $100–$150/day
This is the sweet spot for most people — especially families and first-time visitors. You’ll stay in comfy hotels, enjoy the must-do island tours, feast on fresh seafood, and let someone else handle the logistics. Joining a guided group tour is often the smartest move — affordable, seamless, and full of highlights (with zero planning stress).
Want the VIP treatment? Go luxe.
If your vibe is all about comfort, style, and that “I deserve this” energy — private trips are the way to go. Expect to spend $200+ per day, but you’ll be living your best island life without lifting a finger.
Philippines Trip Cost: How Much is a Trip to Philippines?
Where to Stay & What to Eat
1. El Nido Town, Palawan (For Instagram vs Reality)
Postcard-perfect, but BUSY. Stay close to the action. Tour A-D boats leave daily for lagoons & secret beaches—but book ahead in peak season!
What to Eat:
Try fresh seafood BBQ by the beach, kinilaw (Filipino-style ceviche), and don’t miss lobster feasts in nearby fishing villages.
2. Coron Town, Palawan (For Adventure Seekers)
Jump-off point for epic shipwrecks & kayak lagoons. You’re 10 mins from boat tours to Kayangan Lake, shipwreck diving, and hidden hot springs.
What to Eat:
Fuel up on grilled fish, lechon kawali (crispy pork belly), and if you're brave, try Tamilok — a local delicacy from mangrove trees!
3. Alona Beach, Bohol (For Beach Bums & Divers)
White sand, dive shops, and fire dancers at night. Perfect for diving (Balicasag Island!), island-hopping (Panglao tours), and sunset cocktails with your feet in the sand.
What to Eat:
Go for chorizo rice, peanut kisses (local sweets), and beachfront seafood platters with a side of ocean breeze.
4. Cebu City (For Quick Stopovers)
Not a beach, but the best hub for flights/ferries. Zero stress for early flights.
What to Eat:
Cebu is famous for lechon (roast pig) — crispy, juicy, legendary. Pair it with puso (rice wrapped in banana leaves) for the real local touch.
5. White Beach, Boracay (For Beach Lovers)
The Philippines' most famous beach—4km of powder sand, turquoise water, and epic sunsets. Station 1 means Quiet luxury (softest sand), Station 2 means Restaurants & bars (main action), while Station 3 means Budget-friendly (local feels).
What to Eat:
Think mango shakes, seafood buffets, and Boracay’s cult-favorite chori burger — sweet, spicy, and grilled right on the beach.
What to Pack for Philippines
The Philippines is all about sun, sea, and spontaneous adventures. Pack light is essential!
Lightweight, breathable clothes – It’s always hot & humid (think: quick-dry shirts, shorts, sundresses).
Swimsuits (x2-3) – You’ll live in them. Pro tip: Bring a dark-colored one—white sand stains!
Flip-flops (sandals) – For beach days, hostel showers, and dodgy streets.
Sturdy sandals – Like Tevas/Chacos for hiking and waterfalls.
Waterproof phone pouch – For island-hopping, snorkeling, and drunk beach selfies.
Reef-safe sunscreen – Regular sunscreen is banned in places like El Nido (save the corals!).
GoPro/waterproof camera – You’ll regret not capturing underwater turtles.
Snorkel mask – Rentals can be gross (bring your own if you’re picky).
Pro Tips:
Laundry is cheap (~₱100/kg), pack light, wash often.
Backpack > suitcase: Streets are uneven, and boats are cramped.
Explore Philippines with Asia Odyssey Travel
Ready to make your island dreams a reality? At Asia Odyssey Travel, we’re all about helping you explore the very best of the Philippines.
Whether you’re dreaming of a quick island escape or an epic multi-island adventure, we’ll help you plan a trip that’s smooth, exciting, and totally stress-free. From flights and ferries to hotels, tours, and hidden gems, we’ve got every detail covered.
- Well-organized tour packages: Philippines Group Tours, El Nido Tours, Coron Tours, Bohol Tours, Cebu Tours, Boracay Tours
- Useful travel guide: Philippines Islands, Philippines Itineraries, Philippines Travel Cost, Philippines Surfing Spots
- Updated Maps: Philippines Maps, Cebu Maps, Bohol Maps, El Nido Maps, Coron Maps, Boracay Maps, Manila Maps, Siargao Island Map, Palawan Maps
You just show up. We’ll handle the rest. Let’s build your perfect Philippines trip — easy, fun, and unforgettable. Message us today and let the island magic begin!
If you have any questions about this article, please contact us by submitting the following form and we'll immediately get back to you.
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