The places, most named first
From the 7 guides that rank for "best beaches in philippines"
Named by 3 of 71. BoracayOne of the most famous beach destinations in the country, with powdery white sand.Can get crowded, but has white sand, seafood, water sports and a nighttime beach party scene.Best time to visit Boracay
Named by 3 of 72. SiargaoKnown as the surfing capital, with a famous break at Cloud 9.Beaches, sunsets and nightlife for non-surfers too.
Named by 2 of 73. El NidoLimestone cliffs, secret lagoons and hidden beaches around the Bacuit Archipelago.Island hopping and kayaking among limestone formations.
Named by 2 of 74. PagudpudSaud Beach has clear turquoise water and white sand.Hard to reach, so beaches here are often empty.
Named by 2 of 75. Apo IslandVolcanic island with clear water, reached from Dumaguete.A well-known dive destination.
6. LaiyaBusiest in summer but popular all year, with coarse beige sand and many resorts.About 3 to 4 hours from Manila by bus and jeepney.7. CebuBoats run from Cebu to Malapascua Island at the northern tip.Divers can see thresher sharks off Malapascua.Best time to visit CebuBest beaches in Cebu
8. Verde IslandA quiet fishing village with basic facilities, for those who want less touristy beaches.The trip from Manila takes 4 to 5 hours.
9. Masasa BeachOff-white sand and clear water; some development but still raw charm.Boats leave from Anilao in the amihan season, November to April.
10. Bantayan IslandPowder white sand that rivals Boracay, with a laid-back feel.Serene atmosphere, shallow depths and clear water.
11. Carabao IslandA little known island just miles from Boracay with powder white beaches.Guides restrict water activities in rainy or stormy seasons.
12. Nacpan and CalitangTwin beaches with a four kilometer stretch of cream sand.About 17 km north of El Nido town.
13. Calaguas IslandsMahabang Buhangin Beach has fine, powder white sand and is popular with campers.Few stores, so bring food from Daet.
14. Port BartonA quieter, smaller version of El Nido with similar white beaches.Driest and sunniest from December to April, which is also peak season.
15. Anguib BeachPowder white sand, called the Boracay of the north.Waves are gentlest from March to May.
16. Palaui IslandRemote, untouched island off northeastern Luzon.Has the Cape Engaño lighthouse and hiking trails.
17. Camaya CoastA three-hour drive from Manila, easy for a weekend trip.Large sandy beach in a cove with palm trees and turquoise water.
18. Nagbalayong BeachGolden sand and a nesting ground for sea turtles.Two to three hours from Manila by road.
19. Subic BayMany beaches, about two to three hours from Manila.All Hands, SBMA and Camayan are the most popular.
20. SiquijorIsland with bone-colored beach sand and scuba diving.
Fares from your city
Pick a place for live fares. Watch them and we alert you when they drop.
Finding fares from your airport…
When to go
Travel guides most often name December to March as the best time to visit the Philippines.
Questions people ask
- Where to visit in the Philippines for beaches?
- Boracay, El Nido and Siargao come up most: Boracay for white sand and nightlife, El Nido for lagoons and island hopping, Siargao for surfing.
