The 15 Must Visit’s of the Philippines

Of course, we have to start with Bohol and Panglao.

Bohol is a province famous for its remarkable beaches, coral reefs, waterfalls, and unique geological formations — Chocolate Hills. Panglao and Balicasag Islands offer the best snorkeling with fish, turtles, and many other sea creatures. In the tropical jungles of Bohol, guests of the province can see the tiniest monkeys, Tarsiers. Loboc River cruise invites everyone to enjoy delicious Filipino food while listening to good live music, sailing up the river, and watching the scenic views.

Here we have a list of our 7 best things to do in Bohol.

Subic Bay

A bay on the west coast of Luzon Island, known as a former site of a major United States Navy facility in the Philippines, can now offer its guests a unique wreck diving experience. About 19 wrecks let divers touch the history from the Spanish-American War to the Second World War. And for adventurers who want to test themselves, Jungle-Environment Survival Training (JEST) Camp is the best way to learn the basic skills of living in pristine jungles as indigenous people called Aetas did.

Camiguin Island

Just south of Panglao and Bohol, you will find the beautiful island of Camiguin. Camiguin is called “Island Born of Fire” and not without reason – it is home to seven volcanos, the youngest of which, Hibok-Hibok, is still active. Despite being one of the smallest provinces in the Philippines, Camiguin offers numerous waterfalls, natural springs, exciting dive sites, and snorkeling. One of them, Sunken Cemetery, can impress everyone with its mysterious views.

Davao City and Samal Island

Many people come to Davao for hiking or climbing Mount Apo, the highest mountain and active volcano in the Philippines. The way itself can take 3 to 5 days. Unique nature and stunning views make this challenging experience truly rewarding.

For those who would like to be thrilled, Crocodile Park of Davao allows you to look more closely at freshwater and saltwater crocodiles living in the Philippines. The best way to enjoy family gatherings and to spend an unforgettable time with your beloved is to visit Eden Nature Park, which has nice paths for walks, restaurants, horse riding, and gliding in the sky on SkyRider. And when the night falls in Davao, it’s time to visit Jack’s Ridge and enjoy scenic city views.

Coron Island

Located in the north of Palawan, Coron Island is one of the top destinations in the Philippines. Beautiful islands, beaches, lagoons, and diving spots will please travelers and stay in their hearts. If you look deeper into the crystal clear water of the Coron Islands when diving or snorkeling, you can find breathtaking World War II shipwrecks, colorful coral reefs, and rich marine life. Coron offers to watch the legendary sea cows and dugongs for those who want to have a truly unique experience. Coron is one of the few places in the world where you can see these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

Another must-try experience on the island is diving in Barracuda Lake’s waters, a former volcano crater. Deriving its name from the barracuda living there, the lake surprises the divers with a unique mixture of freshwater and seawater. The scenic limestone structures along the wall make the scenery genuinely amazing.

If you come to our dive center in Panglao and want to go to Coron and Baracuda Lake, please let us know. We regularly jump all together on a plane and go there for a few days, freediving in the lake and wrecks.

Batanes Island

Home of the Winds, Batanes Island offers its guests unspoiled, peaceful beauty. Being one of the most northern provinces, Batanes, with its rock formations and scenic lighthouses, stands out from most island destinations in the Philippines.

Kalanggaman Island

The best option to escape from the city or overcrowded tourist destinations is to visit Kalanggaman Island, located between Cebu and Leyte Islands. Famous for its crystal clear water, fine white sand, and long sandbars stretching on both sides, this tiny island is perfect for swimming or lying under swaying palm trees.

Siargao Island

Siargao Island is another one of our favorites and an absolute must-visit location in the Philippines. Located on the northeastern coast of Mindanao, Siargao Island is often called the Philippines’ Surfing Capital. Many tourists from all over the world come there to enjoy consistently high waves. The most famous surfing spot is Cloud 9, with waves rising as high as 12 feet from September to November, although the surfing season in Siargao lasts all year round.

Boracay Island

Just 7 km long and 1 km wide, the tiny island of Boracay opens its beauty to many local and foreign tourists every year. The island has 17 beaches, each of which is beautiful in its own way. The most famous and popular beach of Boracay is White Beach, with 4 km of white powder sand, crystal clear water, and stunning sunsets.

In the north of the island, on the Puka Shell Beach, tourists can find serenity and escape the crowds. Tambisaan Beach provides the best snorkeling experience with its corals and fish about only 30 meters from the shore. The mecca for all kitesurfers is Bulabog Beach, with consistently strong winds during the Amihan (northwest monsoon) season.

Boracay offers many different activities to the island’s guests and tourists: scuba diving, kitesurfing, sailing on traditional local boats (tangkas), snorkeling, vivid nightlife, and amazing food experiences.

Dumaguete and Apo Island

Dumaguete is called “the City of Gentle People” because of its unique ambiance. This small and cozy town offers guests many different trekking routes, gardens, hot springs, and coral reef islands.

At only 30 minutes off the coast: Apo Island, a volcanic island with beautiful coral gardens beneath the water. Being a marine reserve since 1982, Apo Island is a favorite diving destination for its excellent visibility. Many dive sites have sloping reefs, walls, coral gardens, and drift dives.

Travelers can take the Lagoon Trail through the Apo Village to see the local flora and fauna and interact with the island’s residents.

Vigan

Vigan is located on the western coast of Luzon’s large island and is declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is the best-preserved example of a planned Spanish colonial town in Asia. To enjoy a beautiful view of the whole area, you can climb the Bantay Bell Tower. To see more details of historical architecture, it’s a good idea to take a walk through the Calle Crisologo historic district, where many local artisans offer their goods.

Puerto Princesa

The coastal city of Puerto Princesa is the optimal base location for exploring Palawan Island, which is world-renowned for its natural wonders: islands, caves, natural parks, and many others. One of them is Subterranean River National Park, which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. Another wonder is the five-mile Underground River with impressive limestone caves. For snorkeling lovers, Honda Bay is an excellent option for enjoying the day. Those who like adventures can try ziplining and caving in Ugong Rock.

El Nido

Located at the most northern tip of Palawan Island, El Nido is one of the most popular places to visit in the Philippines. It offers hidden lagoons, limestone formations, sandbanks, and stunning islands with white beaches and blue water—it’s truly a gem.

Baguio, Banaue and Sagada

Standing out of all other tropical destinations of the Philippines, this mountain area offers its guests truly unique experiences. Travelers can enjoy cool and fresh air in the pine forests of Baguio, the summer capital of the Philippines. To enjoy the serenity and calm beauty of traditional rice terraces, visiting Banaue and Batad, the incredible semi-natural wonders of the world is highly recommended. The Batad Rice Terraces and the Bangaan Rice Terraces are protected UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Not far from Baguio is the small town of Sagada. Nested in the rugged and remote Cordillera Mountains, it is a top-rated hiking destination. One route goes to Mount Ampaco, which boasts the highest peak in the region, and another path lies through the Echo Valley, which has a steep and rugged terrain.

And for those who like the feeling of inner agitation, The Hanging Coffins Of Sagada are a must-see.