The Pearl of the Orient offers a range of experiences for the curious traveler, from offering incredible culinary establishments to white-sand beach paradise. This Southeast Asian country has more than 7,000 islands, each more unique than the other. Popular islands like Boracay and Palawan are top destinations for beach vacations, while other islands in the country offer more rugged experiences. Not only do these islands offer tons of things to do in the Philippines on Instagram, they also paint a picture of the beauty of this Southeast Asian archipelago!
10 Siargao
This teardrop-shaped island is located in the Philippine Sea, in the Caraga region of the Philippines. While the island is blessed with white sand beaches, Siargao has some of the best waves in the world. For surfing on this Philippine island, the Cloud 9 surf spot is especially popular!
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The island is ideal for:
Avid surfer. -
famous scenery:
Magpopongko Rock Pool, Tayangban Cave Pool, Sugba Lagoon
9 bohol island
The province of Bohol straddles Cebu and is located in the Visayas region. This beautiful province includes the tourist-friendly cities of Tagbilaran (the capital), Cortes, and Corella. Bohol is famous for its conical mounds known as the “Eighth Wonder of the World” Chocolate Hills. There are at least 1,268 hills in Bohol (although the number may be higher). Besides the picturesque scenery of the Chocolate Hills, many tourists also frequent Bohol to see the tarsiers. These adorable primates are found across parts of Southeast Asia and can be seen at the Philippine Tarsier and Wildlife Sanctuary in Corella.
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The island is ideal for:
Nature photographer and animal lover tourist. -
famous scenery:
Chocolate Hills, Baclayon Church, Bohol Mahogany Forest, Philippine Tarsier and Wildlife Sanctuary
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notes: When visiting a tarsier sanctuary in the Philippines, Be aware of this threatened species. These primates are sensitive to flashing lights and loud sounds. Tarsiers are also prone to stress and can easily take their own lives, especially in captivityTherefore, the sanctuary may also ask visitors to keep their voices low, turn off their camera flashes, and not touch or wake the tarsiers from their sleep! |
8 kangaman i.
This small island is part of the city of Palompon, Leyte Province, Philippines. Despite its size, Karangaman is known for its white sand beaches and wide sandbars. Enjoy the marine sanctuary around the island with ease through kayaking, swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving!
Many islands in the Philippines have beautiful scenery and complete facilities for tourists. Unfortunately, Karangaman Island is not one of them. There are no dedicated resorts or hotels on the island; instead, there is a campsite for travelers who want to stay overnight.
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The island is ideal for:
Adventurous and water-loving travelers who make seasoned campers. -
famous scenery:
This small island is perfect for water activities, from kayaking to snorkeling!
7 Catanduanes
Located on the southern tip of Bicol Luzon, the island offers attractions that will appeal to history buffs and nature lovers alike. Here, visitors will encounter beautiful waterfalls, surfable waves, pristine beaches, and Spanish colonial architecture (especially churches). Catanduanes often go by several names, including “Isla de Cobos,” “Happy Islands,” and “Land of the Howling Winds” (due to the typhoons that occur each year).
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The island is ideal for:
history buffs -
famous scenery:
Bator Church, Binurong Point
6 Palawan Island
Some travelers might think that Palawan is the most beautiful island in the world! This Philippine island has awe-inspiring natural landscapes both on land and in the sea. Tourists flock to El Nido for island hopping and encounters with Palawan landmarks such as Miniloc Island, Secret Lagoon and Hidden Beach. This beautiful island offers a range of accommodation options, from affordable hotels in town to luxury resorts by the beach.
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The island is ideal for:
Honeymooners or couples looking to rekindle their romance. -
famous scenery:
Kayangan Lake, Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, Nacpan Beach
5 siquijor
If Siquijor could be described in one word, it would be enchanting.Situated in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines, this island province is famous for witchcraft, magic and witch (or a therapist). Its surroundings are just as magical, especially the famous century-old vine trees! In addition to its mystical character, Siquijor offers a range of hotels and seaside resorts for tourists looking to spend their holidays under the tropical sun.
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The island is ideal for:
Travelers who love the mysteries and are interested in Filipino folklore.
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famous scenery:
Ancient Enchanted Palit Tree, Cambugahay Falls, Paliton Beach
4 Boracay
For decades, Boracay’s powdery white sands have drawn tourists to the tiny Philippine island. In fact, it was so popular at one point that the government had to close the island to tourists for several months to “rehabilitate”. Today, Boracay is open to tourists, although the number of visitors is limited each day. Still, tourists should check out Boracay, especially those looking for a tropical getaway. The small island has numerous hotels, resorts and restaurants for the convenience of its guests. This Visayas is also known for its nightlife, with beachfront bars and clubs!
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The island is ideal for:
The party-loving backpacker -
famous scenery:
White Sand Beach, Puka Shell Beach, Willy’s Rock
3 Western Mindoro
The province is located in the Mimaropa region south of Manila (the capital of the Philippines). Occidental Mindoro is home to vast natural landscapes, from Mount Kalavit in Paluan to the Silonay Mangrove Conservation and Ecological Park in Calapan City. Notably, Occidental Mindoro is also emerging as one of the premier scuba diving destinations in the Philippines (and arguably one of the best in the world), likely due to the 27,469-hectare Apo Roof, the second largest coral reef in the world!
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The island is ideal for:
Avid and experienced diver -
famous scenery:
Eaglet-Bako Mountains National Park is located in Sublayan Lighthouse Park
2 antique
Antiques may not be well known compared to places like Palawan or Boracay. However, this Western Visayas still has something unique to offer tourists. In addition to its beautiful waterfalls and beaches, Antique has a story to entice history buffs. Industries on the island also depend on activities such as fishing, rice, hand weaving and salt processing. Visit the island at any time of the year or during its famous festivals to take part in the festivities such as the Binirayan Festival in December!
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The island is ideal for:
Vacation travelers looking for a chill, laid-back vibe. -
famous scenery:
Bugtong Bato Waterfall, Rustic Rice Terraces, Bugtong Bato Waterfall
1 mountainous
Nicknamed the “Pineapple Capital of the Philippines” and “The Granary of Mindanao,” Bukidnon’s economy is largely made up of agricultural activities, with one of the largest pineapple plantations on Earth. Spanning thousands of hectares, visitors can witness the sprawling landscape of the plantation on a zip line at Dahilyan Adventure Park, which is also the longest zip line in Asia.
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The island is ideal for:
Foodies! -
famous scenery:
Panorama Park, Incarnation Temple, Lake Apo
