The Most Beautiful Dreamlike Islands of the Philippines
Around one million tourists are drawn to the Philippines every year. The group of islands in the Pacific is absolutely on the rise. No wonder, it's a Robinson Crusoe feeling guaranteed. Here are the most beautiful islands of the archipelago.
April 26, 2023
Boracay
Perfect for: sun worshippers, golfers, sailors and divers
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Crystal-clear, endless shallow waters, powder-sugar white sand, shielded by green palms - White Beach on Boracay is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world and rightfully so. It's perfect for sun worshippers who crave a little peace and quiet. Since the island with its 10 square kilometers has so far managed to escape mass tourism, you can always find a spot where you can tan undisturbed. And also divers and water sports fans like to travel here for this reason. In the north of the island there's also a hotspot for golfers - an 18-hole course belonging to Fairways & Bluewater Resort.
Palawan
Perfect for: Backpackers, party goers, photo fanatics, lagoon lovers
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Palawan is without a doubt the most famous island in the Philippines. Located in the very west of the country, the island is often the first stop of backpacking tours. Here you'll find the perfect mix of jungle adventures, dream beaches, breathtaking lagoons and parties. Especially cool is the hectic little village of El Nido, which is the starting point for boat trips to the Barcuit archipelago and has become a hip photo spot thanks to its steep rock formations. From here you can also reach the offshore island of Miniloc with its Small and Big Lagoon. If you want to dance at tropical parties, this is also the right place to be. Not only Palawan itself is beautiful, but also the islands of Coron and Busuanga, which are located in the north of the island. It's perfect for island hopping.
Siargao
Perfect for: (hobby) surfers, photo fanatics, boho fans, palm tree lovers, adventurers
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The teardrop-shaped island of Siargao is located in the very east of the Philippines and has made a name for itself in recent years, especially among influencers and surfers. In the small town of General Luna, hip restaurants, bars and resorts have settled, and surf camps and retreats are also held here every year. A hotspot is the XL wooden jetty Cloud 9, where you can not only watch surfers surfing, but you can also enjoy the sunset. If you prefer green nature, you should take a scooter to the famous Palm Tree Road. The road winds through palm forests. Siargao is also the starting point for boat trips and beach adventures. It's a bright island with addictive potential.
Bohol
Perfect for: Backpackers, sightseeing fans, photo fanatics, hikers
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Small green hills that turn brown in the dry season - the so-called Chocolate Hills are the landmark of the Philippine island of Bohol. Relatively centrally located, it's a stopover for many backpacker or vacation routes. Bohol is less known for its dream beaches, but for its spectacular sights. Besides the Chocolate Hills, the island can score with caves, like the Hinagdanan Cave with its stalactites, and impress with lush green rice terraces. Moreover, history is visible on Bohol, thanks to historic buildings like the 16th century Baclayon Church. If you have some time left you should go diving and marvel at the coral reefs.
Parts of Luzon
Perfect for: all who want to experience the Philippines in its full diversity, whale shark fans
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Slowly ,the giants move in the water in front of you, their spotted skin shimmering in the sunlight beaming through the water's surface - swimming with whale sharks is an experience you'll probably never forget. In the southeast of the Philippine main island of Luzon, this dream could come true. The town of Donsol specializes in the protection of these huge animals. Unlike Oslob on the island of Cebu, for example, the animals are not fed for mass tourist processing here, but swim in their natural habitat. With a little luck, you can share a few lanes with them. As the largest of the islands, Luzon also has everything to offer, from dream beaches and volcanoes to bustling cities like the capital Manila, rice terraces and jungles. If you have some time, you should definitely have a look at Luzon.