Philippines' Secluded Shores: Discovering the Country's Top Beach Getaways

Being an archipelago of more than 7000 islands, it’s not easy to make a list of the best beaches in the Philippines. Not only are the Philippines world-renown for having some of the world’s most beautiful islands and picture-perfect bounty beaches, but what is the definition of a beautiful beach?

For some, the remoteness of a white sand beach is what they are looking for. Other regard a beach with a rough sea and high waves as the ultimate beach experience. And then there are the water sports enthusiasts who set as a requirement the possibilty to snorkel or scubadive just off the coastline. 

 Since it’s hard to make a list of best beaches based on the opinions of travelers who only have seen a few of them, we decided to ask the locals themselves what they think are the best beaches in the Philippines. 

1. Bohol

Bohol is a lovely island and one of the greenest in the Philippines. Besides the bounty beaches, the highlight of Bohol are the Chocolate Hills. This is an expansive green plain with more than a thousand cone-shaped hills. When visiting Bohol, don’t forget to see the funny-looking Tarsiers, the world’s smallest primate. Panglao beach is by far the best beach as it has crystal clear water and a tropical setting. The beaches on the adjacent Virgin islands are worth a visit as well. 

2. Malapascua

With its amazing white sandy beaches, Malapascua is a popular alternative for the more touristy island Borocay. Malapascua is even smaller than Borocay and has a population of a mere 3500 people. Most travelers come here to experience the underwaterworld as it has a reputation of being a superb diving location. Especially for spotting the tresher shark. There are several diving tours that will help you see one of these amazing creatures. Those who wish to spend the night on this island can rent a beach bungalow that is located in between the locals’ houses. 

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3. Palawan

Due to the remote location, Palawan may well be the most beautiful spot in the Philippines. The island is an ecological walhalla. The inland features tropical jungle and volcanic mountain peaks while the coastline is dotted with sheltered bays and magnificent coral reefs. The latter ones are exceptional beautiful around the Bacuit archipelago close to El Nido in the northwest. This beach is regarded as the finest with its clear water, coloured reef and hidden stretches of sand. It is so incredible that is was used as a setting for shooting the last Bourne movie. Diving enthusiasts love this place while the relaxing atmosphere of Port Barton gives you the ultimate holiday experience. If you have time left, bes ure to visit the underground river near the village Sabang as it is listed as one of the world’s natural wonders. 

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