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Top 5 Destinations in the Philippines
Top 5 Destinations in the Philippines
If you’ve been reading our past blogs, you’ll notice that we always mention the Philippines being known for its beautiful beaches and breathtaking sunsets. You also probably know by now that the Philippines is made up of over 7,000 islands that offer tourists unique experiences and the same Filipino Hospitality.
So, if there are thousands of islands, what are the top destinations in the country? As the top rated expedition company in Coron, we’re giving you a list to help with your Philippine Island Adventure.
Before that, you’ve probably heard about Boracay as it has been explosive in the media lately. You know, that vacation island that was closed down for rehabilitation and has recently been reopened? You won’t see that island on this list but we shall talk about that another time as the reasons why it’s awesome may have changed into something even more awesome.
Please note that all of these 5 provinces have a lot of beautiful islands that are worth exploring and most of the activities involves water and the sun so bring your sunscreens!
The main activity for all of the provinces would be island hopping, snorkeling and kayaking or paddle boarding with each place having its own magnificent characteristics worth sailing out for.
Now, on to our list!
- Coron
Don’t miss this place when you visit Palawan, the last frontier. Although the main towns are El Nido and Puerto Princesa, this is the perfect place to see beautiful islands and do lots of water activities. Go for an Island Expedition when you’re here. That’s the best way to see more and experience more as you get to camp in some of the islands and enjoy the seas all day. Oh, and plus it’s a totally unique kind of adventure!
During Big Dream Boat Man Expedition, Season 1.
Photo: Thom de Villa @thomito12
Coron is known for its shipwrecks and karst landscapes. The most notable places are its crystal-clear freshwater lakes and shallow-water coral reefs. Have you ever heard of the cleanest lake in the Philippines and in Asia, AKA the Kayangan Lake? Yup. This is where you’ll find it. You can also climb to the top of Mt. Tapyas for a panoramic view of the province or soak in a hot spring in Maquinit Springs.
Photo: Thom de Villa @thomito12
Photo: @warrencamitan
- Siargao
If you’re into surfing, this is definitely the place for you! Siargao is a teardrop shaped island in Surigao del Norte and it is the surfing capital of the Philippines. There’s even a wave on the island for every level! The best part is that most of the surf areas are uncrowded, especially if you’re up for a boat ride to take you past the reefs or to one of the islands.
Photo: @pinoyvagabonds
Photo: @pinoyvagabonds
The Magpupungko Rock Pools are one of the most popular things to do in Siargao. The rock pools are exposed at low tide which makes them an awesome spot for hours of exploring and cliff jumping. While you’re there, you can also check out Tayangban Cave Pool and the Coconut Palm Forest at the top of the Road.
Photo: @thomito12
- Port Barton
Port Barton is another place in Coron where there are a lot of lovely islands to visit and explore. If you are a backpacker, this is definitely for you! It’s a smaller, lesser touristy version of Coron but is just as pristine. The place is not as developed as El Nido or Puerto Princesa, but that also means that it’s generally cheaper and less crowded than the others. The other good thing about Port Barton is that the beaches are still unabused and you’ll surely get the island life you’ve been searching for! This is why it’s starting to make a name for itself these days. Be sure to bring mosquito repellents! Drop the gadgets and go back to basics.
Photo: @pinoyvagabonds
Photo: @warrencamitan
You can also visit the Turtle Sanctuary at Secret Paradise Resort, Turtle Bay. The Nature Reserve will allow any traveler to enjoy fun and exciting activities such as watching the turtles lay their eggs or even seeing how they hatch. You can also go trekking through streams, a jungle, and some rice fields to Pamuayan Falls.
- Siquijor
Photo: @vagabondpinas
Siquijor is located at the Central Visayas region and is known as the land of faith healing. It even has a Faith Healing Festival during the Holy Week, specifically on Black Saturdays! History says that the Spaniards called it “Isla del Fuego” or the "Island of Fire" because the island gave off an eerie glow because of the great swarms of fireflies that lived in the numerous molave trees on the island. See the age old Balete Tree which is a tourist favorite spot for fish spa, experience the witch festival, and do many island activities.
Photo: @patttipuss
Photo: @sweetiekaye
You can also check out Kanheron Ranch which transports you to the old frontier and just about everything else you’d expect to see in an old western movie. Cave spelunking is also something you can do with a visit to Cantabon Cave or you can visit the Siquijor Butterfly Sanctuary if you want something a bit mellow and educational.
Photo: @ninjarod
- Bohol
Bohol is another province in Central Visayas known for its chocolate hills and the Philippine Tarsier, one of the world’s smallest primates. Panglao Island, is famous for its diving locations and is often listed as one of the top ten diving locations in the world.
Photo: @the_philippines
Aside from the water activities, Bohol also has a lot of interesting destinations like the man made forest, Hinagdanan cave, and Luinab Rice terraces.
So, now that we’ve given you a short list of the top destinations in the Philippines, have you figured out where to go yet? We know that it can be challenging to decide because they’re all so exciting and they’re also definitely worth the trip. While you’re stuck trying to choose between these islands, how about some Tips on How to Plan your Philippine Islands Travel Itinerary?
If it’s your first time visiting the pearl of the orient seas, click here for some Tips when traveling to the Philippines. You can also find our island expedition schedules here.
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Cheers! Sea you soon!
