The Philippines is a beautiful country renowned for its stunning beaches, warm climate, welcoming locals, and vibrant culture, making it an ideal summer destination. With over 7,000 islands, the country offers endless possibilities for travelers looking for a tropical getaway.
If you’re planning to spend your summer in the Philippines, you should learn about the different places you can visit. Knowing about what the different Philippine provinces offer can help you make the most out of your trip. Whether you’re looking for a pristine beach to sunbathe or an unmatched exhilarating adventure in the mountains, the Philippines has summer destinations that can satisfy your wanderlust.
In this article, we’ll discuss several summer vacation spots to visit all over the Philippines. From the north to the south, every tourist destination offers a unique experience. So, it’s best to plan your trip accordingly to make sure you don’t miss anything!
The Best Provinces to Visit for Your Summer Vacation
The Philippines might be a small country, but it doesn’t mean it lacks stunning summer vacation spots. In fact, the opposite is true. Despite being smaller than other tropical countries, the Philippines has a lot to offer if you want to stay here for the summer. Some of the provinces you can spend your vacation in are the following:
Tarlac
If you want your vacation to be a bit spiritual and adventurous, then Tarlac should be on your bucket list. You can start at the Monasterio de Tarlac where you can see a beautiful garden overlooking a view of Tarlac and the 30-foot-tall Christ the Redeemer statue.
You can then head to the Tarlac Recreational Park to go kayaking and fishing, and even ride an ATV. If you have more energy and time, you can also go on a side trip to Kart City to burn some rubber and race.
La Union
One of the most popular north provinces in the Philippines, La Union offers pristine beaches and seas ideal for surfing. But surfing aside, there are other things that you can do there during the summer.
Around 45 minutes away from San Juan, La Union, you can find Tangadan Falls where you can try cliff diving and swimming. You can then head to Silid ti Adal ken Laing ti La Union or La Union Art Gallery located at San Fernando City to see local artworks inspired by the cool waves of the La Union Seascape. Then you can end the day at the La Union Bee Farm, learn about bees, and even harvest your own honey!
Zambales
Summer is full of sunny days and, in turn, should be full of beautiful beaches – some of which can be found in Zambales. Just 3 hours away from Manila, Zambales offers everything you could ever want for the summer.
You can start by surfing at San Narciso and then charter a boat to Capones Island where you can experience a bit of history and adventure. However, if you like to relax, you can go to Cabangan’s Macampao where you can chill by the beach, go fishing, and take care of some turtles.
Ilocos
Divided into Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur, there are tons of things to do when you spend your vacation in this province. You can go to the beach, enjoy an ATV adventure in the sand dunes and visit historical churches.
Start at Pagudpud where you can visit the province’s most beautiful beaches then head on to Vigan to see historical homes that are totally Instagram-worthy. Afterward, go to Laoag and Paoay to kick some sand on a cool ATV or maybe even try sandboarding.
Cebu
The islands of Mactan, Malapascua, Bantayan, and Sumilon have some of the best resources for your perfect R and R. Not to mention thrilling activities here like the epic canyoneering experience!
White sand beaches? Palm trees offering comforting shade? Clear, refreshing waters? Diving? You can find that all in Cebu. Even the region’s capital, Cebu City, offers pretty sights and adventures tucked within its busy streets and towering structures.
Palawan
Palawan, known as the “last ecological frontier” of the Philippines, is a breathtaking summer destination. Its pristine beaches, crystal clear waters, and stunning limestone cliffs make it a paradise for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts.
It is home to some of the most beautiful islands in the world, such as El Nido and Coron, where visitors can explore hidden lagoons, go island-hopping, and discover untouched beaches. The island also offers a range of activities, including snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, and trekking.
Davao
Further in the south, Davao is the largest city in the Philippines in terms of land area. It is known for its natural wonders and cultural heritage.
The city is home to the country’s highest peak, Mount Apo, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. It’s also home to some of the country’s most beautiful beaches, such as Samal Island, where visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
For those seeking adventure, Davao also offers river rafting, zip-lining, and trekking opportunities in its lush forests and wildlife reserves. Additionally, the city is known for its rich cultural heritage, with the indigenous Lumad people still preserving their traditions and way of life.
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Beach Destinations in the Philippines That You Should Visit
The different provinces listed above can provide you with an overall experience of how great the Philippines is as a summer destination. However, if you want to focus on the country’s pristine beaches, here are some of the places you shouldn’t miss:
Boracay
One of the most popular destinations for a beach vacation in the Philippines is Boracay Island. Its powdery white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and breathtaking sunsets have made it a must-visit for tourists from all over the world.
The island offers a wide range of water sports activities such as diving, snorkeling, parasailing, and more. It is also home to some of the best sunset views in the world, which can be enjoyed while sipping cocktails at one of the many beachfront bars.
Bolinao
Bolinao, located in the province of Pangasinan, is a hidden gem of a summer destination in the Philippines. Its unspoiled beauty and tranquil atmosphere make it a perfect place to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The town boasts crystal-clear waters, stunning rock formations, and pristine white sand beaches, such as Patar Beach, which is considered one of the best beaches in the country.
This is also where Birdland Beach Club, a must-visit eco-resort for every sea lover, is located. The resort boasts of its serene ambiance, surrounded by lush greenery, and overlooking the pristine white sand beach and the clear blue waters of the South China Sea.
Aguirangan Island, Bicol
Thinking of going to Caramoan? Avoid the crowds and stay in Aguirangan instead.
The idyllic coastline is mostly uninhabited, with a vibrant coral reef, which you can see because the waters are clear. Because of this, the island is a great spot for snorkeling and scuba diving. Apart from the beach, you can take a 20-minute boat ride to Barangay Kinahulogan, where you can see the Kinahulogan Falls.
Bulalacao, Oriental Mindoro
Oriental Mindoro has plenty of beaches, but if you only have the chance to visit one, make it Bulalacao. The place is the perfect jumpoff point to go island hopping, where you can visit postcard-worthy islands like Target’s tranquil shores, Silad’s rock formations and yellow sand, Aslom’s sandbar, Tambaron’s robust marine life, Suguicay’s mangroves, and Buyayao’s fishing and diving spots.
Salagdoong, Siquijor
Siquijor is known for its magic, and you will believe it when you see Salagdoong. This reclusive spot is so far away from the city that electricity is out by 6 PM. The water is so clear that you can see the fish swimming. There’s even a small rocky hill (called a hummock) with a bridge, slide, waterfall, and diving platforms!
Other Vacation Spots to Visit in the Philippines
If you’re not much of a fan of beaches, the Philippines is still an excellent summer destination for you. The country offers different kinds of tourist spots that will satisfy your unique need for an adventure. Here are some of the underrated tourist spots in the Philippines that you should visit:
Laresio Lakeside Resort and Spa
Laresio Lakeside Resort and Spa is a unique and refreshing summer getaway destination located in Los Baños, Laguna, Philippines. The resort boasts of its serene ambiance, surrounded by lush greenery, and overlooking the scenic beauty of the tranquil lake.
One of the main attractions of Laresio Lakeside Resort and Spa is its wide range of activities that cater to different types of travelers. For adventure-seekers, the resort offers a thrilling zipline, wall climbing, and obstacle course. Guests can also enjoy kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and fishing in the lake.
Treasure Mountain
Treasure Mountain is a hidden gem and a perfect summer getaway destination for adventurous travelers seeking a unique experience. It is located in Tanay, Rizal, and offers a breathtaking view of the Sierra Madre mountain range.
The main attraction of Treasure Mountain is its challenging yet rewarding hiking trail, which takes about 30 minutes to reach the peak. Once at the top, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the scenic natural beauty of Tanay. The summit is also a perfect spot for stargazing, especially during clear nights.
Bulusan Volcano Natural Park
Another underrated destination in the Philippines is the Bulusan Volcano Natural Park. It is a beautiful and unique summer getaway destination located in the province of Sorsogon, Philippines. The park is home to the active Bulusan Volcano, which is one of the most scenic and popular volcanoes in the country.
It offers a range of activities that cater to different types of travelers, such as hiking, bird watching, and camping. Visitors can hike to the volcano’s summit and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. The park also has several trails that lead to waterfalls and hot springs, perfect for a relaxing dip after a long hike.
Fun Summer Ideas to Try on Your Vacation
Picking a summer destination isn’t the only thing you need to do when planning your vacation. Aside from taking in stunning views, getting along with the locals, and cooling off in the sea or pool, you need to plan your activities to make your trip worthwhile. Here are some fun summer ideas for your next getaway:
Go on a Picnic
Going on a picnic is not only a classic and fun summer idea, but it’s also a perfect way to create lasting memories with your loved ones. It’s a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
Pack a basket full of your favorite snacks, sandwiches, and drinks, and head to a scenic spot such as a park or the beach. Don’t forget to bring a blanket or a mat to sit on, and some games to play, such as frisbee or cards.
Try Camping
Camping is an excellent way to spend your summer, and it’s an ideal activity for those who love the outdoors. It’s a great opportunity to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in nature. You can choose from a range of campsites, from basic tent camping to glamping in luxury tents or RVs.
Camping also provides an opportunity to bond with family or friends around a campfire, telling stories, playing games, and enjoying each other’s company. It’s a fun and affordable way to explore nature and make unforgettable memories with loved ones.
Attend a Concert or Festival
Another activity to add to your summer vacation bucket list is attending a concert or festival. Whether it’s a small music festival in your local park or a big-name concert in a stadium, there’s nothing like the energy of a live performance.
You can enjoy live music, food, drinks, and even activities like carnival games and art exhibits. The warm summer weather makes it the perfect time to spend a day or a weekend outside, surrounded by good vibes and good people. It’s also an excellent opportunity to discover new artists, dance with friends, and make unforgettable memories.
Explore Water Sports
You should also consider trying different water sports on your next summer getaway in the Philippines. You can try a range of activities, such as kayaking, paddle boarding, surfing, or rafting, depending on your location and skill level. These sports offer a thrilling experience and a great workout, while also providing an opportunity to explore the beautiful outdoors.
Water sports can be enjoyed alone or with friends, and many facilities offer rental equipment, making it an accessible and affordable activity. It’s a fantastic way to get active and have fun during the summer months. So, grab your swimsuit and gear, and make a splash!
Enjoy a Staycation
If you want to relax and unwind, nothing beats a summer staycation in the Philippines. You can stay in a cozy place where you can spend quality time alone or with your friends and family. It’s an easy way to recharge from your hectic schedule and treat yourself to some peace and quiet.
Have a Blast While Spending Your Summer in the Philippines
Visit the Philippines’ pristine beaches and stunning tourist destinations to enjoy your summer getaway. Don’t forget to try different activities as well to make the most out of your trip!
