Top 20 Philippine Beaches and Islands: MUST SEE List of Top Vacation Destinations in the Philippines

17 . Anda, Bohol

Bohol is frequented by many and is one of the dream destinations of first time travellers. Due to its proximity to the airport, most tourists go to Alona Beach and Dumaluan Beach. These two beaches are equally beautiful, both with fine white or cream sand. But those in search of a privacy and solitude will not mind the two-hour road trip to Anda and will consider the beach a gem. 

 

The coast is still comprised mostly of fishing villages, with fishing boats passing by from afar as you lay on the beach. If it is privacy you’re looking for, it is privacy you’ll get! The sand is fine but is mixed with some pebbles. This is a secret just waiting to reveal itself. 

 

16. Dimakya Island, Coron, Northern Palawan 

The island is home to Club Paradise which is a recent acquisition of the Discovery group. Unknown to many, Club Paradise has been in operation for more than 25 years. It was developed and transformed from its rugged beginnings to what it is now by a German corporation. Just like any other island resort, it offers a luxurious island experience for those who are willing to pay.

 

 

The wildlife has been well preserved so do not be surprised to meet a few monitor lizards during your visit. The cream sand stretches around the island and the house reef has a colorful selection of fishes and corals. On a lucky day, one may even see a dugong or a sea turtle. 

 

 

15. Sangat Island, Palawan 

Sangat Island is also located in Coron, Palawan. Unlike Club Paradise, it offers a much more rustic island experience. The electricity is run by solar power so there is no A/C, no water heater, no television, a light bulb and a ceiling fan. It is famous among divers, some staying for as long as a few months at a time. I went in June which is apparently the mosquito season so it is best to bring mosquito repellant and apply it in the speedboat before you dock on the island.

 

Despite the lack of airconditioning in the cabanas, the wind is quite strong so you would still feel cool and comfortable. The beach is quite long with each cabana having its own piece of the beach. Like in Anda, the sand is combined with some pebbles as well.

 

Those who seek for adventure can board one of the resort kayaks and explore the around the island, jumping in several spots for some snorkling and slowly paddling through their mangrove.

 

14. El Nido, Palawan 

El Nido is comprised of a very small town. I was privileged to arrive on a market day when the townsfolk would bring their produce for sale in the central area. I was amazed to see all many unfamiliar produce and the freshest greens. I was also amazed to see rays and sharks for sale, caught through a traditional method using a fishing line. The beach in the town itself has fine grey sand and serves as the extension of resort restaurants from sunset to dawn. But the thrill starts when you board your outrigger boat for an island hopping tour. 

 

You will never go hungry for adventure in El Nido. You can go mountain biking, hiking, rock climbing, caving and of course island hopping. The fine white sand and the superb underwater scene are just slices of the whole experience. What makes it more interesting are the crawling to reach a hidden lagoon, swimming in an underwater tunnel to enter an underwater cave and another lagoon at high tide and many other unique experiences.

 

 

On your trip to this place, the most important thing that you need to bring is a Go-for-it attitude.

 

13. Bangui coast, Ilocos (December 2010)

This beach is where the famous Ilocos windmills stand tall…literally! The sand is dark grey and extremely rocky and the waves are huge. This is not good for swimming, as the many warnings around the beach show but just look at this view! The towering windmills made me feel like an ant. 

 

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