8 Of The Best Sunsoaked Places To Visit In The Philippines In 2025

In need of a sun-soaked adventure but you can’t justify booking yet another Bali trip? Consider this your sign to start planning your Filipino island getaway. With world-class beaches, jaw-droppingly beautiful islands, a growing food scene and adventure galore, there aren’t many people who won’t fall in love with the Philippines.

Not only is a tad more mysterious to Aussies when compared to our other more-frequented neighbours in the north (even though its only around 8 - 9 hours flight away) but you also won't believe how much bang you can get for your buck when it comes to luxurious accom and its extraordinary dining.

The best time of year to head to The Philippines you ask? Locals suggest heading over during dry season between November and April to experience the ultimate balmy conditions. 

So, whether you’re after a good book and a quiet-beach kind of holiday or looking to pack in hikes, snorkelling and a little partying, here are the best places to visit in the Philippines in 2025.

Palawan

Image credit: Palawan Bible | Instagram

A treasure trove of sparkling lagoons, clear blue lakes and pristine beaches, Palawan is awash with exotic wildlife, rainforests and coral reefs ready to explore. Head north to the stunning El Nido, where you can’t miss the iconic Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon and Secret Beach—accessible only by swimming through a rocky opening in the cliffs.

In the province’s capital, Puerto Princesa, you can explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Puerto Princesa Subterranean River—one of the world’s longest underground rivers—by boat as you float through cavernous limestone chambers. You can also jump on a Honda Bay island-hopping adventure, stopping at some of the most impressive islands on the archipelago, including Starfish Island, Pandan Island and Cowrie Island. If you want to go all out, do yourself a favour and check out Paolyn Houseboats; this mindblowing stay sits on its own blue lagoon accessible by speedboat. It's one of those iconic bucket list stays that we can't get off our minds.

Cebu

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Cebu—known as the Queen City of the South—is one of the best places to visit in the Philippines if you’re chasing culture and coastline in one trip. Where beaches meet history, the province of Cebu filled with historic Spanish colonial landmarks like Fort San Pedro, Magellan’s Cross and Basilica Minore del Santo Niño. The surrounding coral reefs make for impressive snorkelling and diving, while the region’s Oslob is one of the few places where you can spot whale sharks (best from February to April). And if you’re into hiking and waterfalls, Cebu should definitely be on your hit list.

Siargao

Image credit: Siagao Island | Instagram

Picture Canggu 15 years ago and you’ll get a feel for Siargao. A laid-back island famous for its surf breaks—including the world-class Cloud 9—Siargao is home to beach clubs, nightlife, cafes, yoga and reliable wifi, which has begun to draw in digital nomads from far and wide. When you’re ready to unplug from your laptop, there’s plenty more to explore: palm-lined lagoons, hidden islets, natural rock pools, waterfalls and mangrove forests perfect for kayaking. It’s easily one of the best places to visit in the Philippines for surfers and slow travellers alike.

Boracay

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Whether you’re here to island-hop, snorkel, dive, paraglide or just soak up one of the world’s best sunsets, Boracay won’t disappoint. White Beach is where the action happens—especially after dark when it transforms into the island’s party zone—but don’t miss the other powder-white stretches like Puka Shell Beach and Diniwid Beach. By night, explore hidden alleyway eateries or grab a beachfront table for dinner with a view.

For a change of pace, head up Mount Luho for unbeatable views from the island’s highest point, or jump on a sail boat for an unbeatable sunset view—one of the best things to do in the Philippines for sunset chasers. 

Jomalig Island

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If you’re after an authentic island experience, Jomalig Island is one of the Philippines’ best-kept secrets. Flying under the radar with golden sand, turquoise waters and some of the friendliest locals, you’ll feel right at home as they cook up a fresh seafood feast on the beach. Kanaway Beach is a must-visit—head there at low tide to see the sandbars that stretch up to three kilometres from the shore—but the real highlight of Jomalig is the family-run homestays, where you’ll experience warmth and hospitality you can’t put a price on. It’s one of the best places to visit in the Philippines if you want to go completely off-grid.

Sibang Cove

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When you’re sick of the crowds and craving a hit of natural beauty, Sibang Cove delivers. Hidden away on Calayan Island, it’s known for dramatic limestone cliffs and incredible snorkelling. The warm, clear waters are home to tropical fish and colourful coral, making the hike from Calayan Town more than worth it. Our tip: camp overnight for an unforgettable stargazing session before hiking or boating back the next morning—an under-the-radar experience that ranks among the best things to do in the Philippines for nature lovers.

Panampangan Island

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One of the best things to do in the Philippines is to get off the beaten path with a trip to Panampangan Island. After a two-hour boat ride past the vibrant Sama-Bajau (sea gypsy) villages of Tawi-Tawi, you’ll arrive at a three-kilometre stretch of pristine sandbar where you can swim, snorkel and feast on freshly caught seafood. Sunsets are golden here, so stick around into the evening.

Balut Island 

Image credit: Balut Island Tourism | Website

A remote, rugged adventure more your vibe? Balut Island is a good place to start. You’ll need to take a four-to-six-hour boat ride from General Santos City—but that’s all part of the charm. Sit back and relax as you pass through tiny islands and fishing villages, because you’ll need your energy to explore the forests and rolling hills that surround the dormant Balut Volcano. Take a dip in Sabang Hot Spring Beach’s volcanic pools and finish your day at Olanivan Island, where you can snorkel among coral gardens off Tuke Maklang Beach.