Blog | The Philippines: Islands for Every Occasion

The Philippines: Islands for Every Occasion

Stretching from the vicinity of Taiwan in the north to the southern shores of Borneo, the Philippines presents a captivating array of choices for island enthusiasts. Spanning across more than 7,000 tropical islands scattered generously throughout the crystalline waters of the Pacific Ocean, this nation stands out as one of Southeast Asia’s most distinctive and fulfilling travel destinations. With an abundance of these havens of tropical beauty to consider, selecting a launching point can be quite a challenge. Below, we offer some of our top recommendations to help you get started on your journey.

EL NIDO

Palawan’s most abundant treasures are unveiled at the northern tip of its main island, nestled near the charming El Nido. This quaint settlement serves as the primary hub for exploring the crown jewel of Palawan – the breathtaking Bacuit Archipelago, renowned as one of the world’s most enchanting karst seascapes. Nestled within this natural wonder lies Pangulasian Island, a sanctuary graced with an eco-luxury resort. Offering scuba courses and access to an abundance of captivating dive sites, alongside captivating boat tours of mangroves and hidden lagoons, you could easily devote your time to endless exploration. However, the resort’s allure makes it equally irresistible to simply relax and savor the surroundings.

BANWA ISLAND

Nestled in the northeastern reaches of Palawan within the embrace of the Sulu Sea, Banwa Private Island’s sprawling six hectares of lush, verdant landscapes and unspoiled white sand shores create an idyllic haven where nature thrives in abundance. This pristine sanctuary is a refuge for an astonishingly diverse array of flora and fauna species. The island, hosting just six exclusive villas, has been meticulously crafted to immerse guests in the island’s innate beauty. Expansive floor-to-ceiling windows seamlessly blend the interior with the exterior, while the pool salas, beachfront, and garden terraces offer an indulgent expanse of luxurious space. Infinity pools, in the meantime, seemingly dissolve into the boundless expanse of the ocean, offering uninterrupted vistas that extend as far as the eye can see.

CORON

Coron, situated in the northern reaches of Palawan, also known as the Calamianes, stands as the most iconic among this group of islands. The island’s lush, jungle-covered interior largely remains untouched, with two of the most awe-inspiring natural lakes in The Philippines gracing its heart – Kayangan and Barracuda. To reach Kayangan Lake, a steep 10-minute climb takes you to its pristine, crystal-clear waters, nestled within the cradle of the mountain walls. Beneath the surface, it presents an otherworldly moonscape. A wooden walkway and platform are available for you to stow your belongings while you take a refreshing swim. On the other hand, Barracuda Lake offers a unique attraction for divers due to its distinct layers of fresh, salt, and brackish water, accompanied by dramatic temperature fluctuations beneath the surface.

BOHOL

Bohol stands out as one of The Philippines’ most remarkable islands for various reasons. It boasts warm and welcoming locals dedicated to preserving its unique cultural heritage. The island is also famous for its distinctive landscape, including the iconic Chocolate Hills and the charming bug-eyed tarsiers. Beyond its shores, you’ll find an underwater paradise for diving, while its jungle-fringed rivers offer ideal conditions for kayaking and paddleboarding. Pristine white-sand beaches invite travelers to unwind and bask in the sun. Notable highlights include anthropologically significant cave paintings on Lamanok Island and the laid-back beach scenes at Danao and Alona, neighboring coastal stretches known for their relaxed ambiance.

SIARGAO

Until recently, Siargao was a well-kept secret in the Philippines. While destinations like Boracay and Cebu catered to the mass market, this teardrop-shaped island off the coast of Mindanao was primarily known to a select group of surfers enticed by some of Southeast Asia’s most dependable waves, including the renowned Cloud 9. While Siargao is now more widely recognized, its untouched allure endures. In fact, it continues to be one of the most exquisite islands in the archipelago (as seen in the main image). Additionally, it now boasts luxury offerings, such as the recently reopened Nay Palad Hideaway. With the island’s airport undergoing expansion, it’s only a matter of time before this hidden surfing paradise gains even more prominence.

Let 26 North Travel Concierge craft your unforgettable journey to the Philippines. Our expert team specializes in curating epic adventures that showcase the best of this tropical paradise. From exploring the captivating landscapes of Palawan to immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of Manila, we design personalized itineraries that cater to your every desire. Whether it’s luxury beachfront resorts, thrilling water sports, or cultural discoveries, we ensure your Philippines adventure is seamless and unforgettable. With 26 North Travel Concierge, your dream trip to the Philippines becomes a reality.