What better way to celebrate summer than to soak up some sun and vitamin C? I spent six of my teenage years growing up in the Philippines, which gave me more than enough time to explore some of the 7,107 beautiful islands it has to offer. I promise you, if you decide to take the trip to any of these beaches in the Philippines, they won’t let you down. Never in my life have I seen water so clear and blue and sand so fine and white. Ranging from lush and pristine to budget-friendly places, the Philippines has more than enough beaches to accommodate every traveller’s wants and needs.
1. Coron, Palawan
Courtesy of Azamara Club Cruises
The top of this list has gotta be Coron, Palawan. Coron is known for its lagoons and its incredible reefs; being able to go snorkeling there is an experience of a lifetime. The range of activities include the usual water activities like snorkelling and kayaking, but there are also incredible trekking routes for those who want to be rewarded with breathtaking views after a workout!
2. El Nido, Palawan
Courtesy of Primer
If you’re in a bit of a more luxurious mood, I’d definitely recommend staying in one of the nicer resorts in El Nido, just because the beaches are extremely secluded and you’ll be completely disconnected from all your stress and worries the entire trip. Apulit Island and Pangulasian Resort are a few of the more expensive resorts to name a few. El Nido and Coron are both situated on Palawan Island, so if you’d like to hop over to Coron after visiting El Nido (or vice versa), that would definitely be feasible!
3. Mactan, Cebu
Courtesy of Asia Travel
Next up on this list is the island of Cebu. Cebu City is a great destination for those who would like to be both in the city and on the beach. When I had the privilege of visiting Cebu City a few years back, my parents splurged a little, so we stayed three nights in Shangri-la in Mactan. It’s safe to say it was one of the most incredible experiences of my life. Being able to wake up to the sea breeze and walking only a couple of feet to the pristine beach and coral reefs was absolute bliss. Shangri-la boasts one of the best beaches, mainly because its snorkeling reefs are right by the beach, instead of having to take a boat to travel to another island.
4. Panglao, Bohol
Courtesy of Page One
Panglao, Bohol is definitely more of a budget-friendly area, but still boasts a world-class beach. There are many hotels/resorts situated right by the beach front, ranging from a low to high price range. Water activities are pretty standard, but visiting Bohol also comes with other attractions such as the Chocolate Hills and the famous tarsier primates that are native to the Philippines.
5. San Juan, La Union
Courtesy of dotemirates
Last on this list is a place that I visited a couple of years ago that made me fall in love with surfing. San Juan in La Union is not necessarily known for its pristine beaches and white sand, but more so for its waves. Parked right along the beach are multiple surfing schools/coaches that you can hire per session to learn how to surf. Rest assured that you absolutely do not need to have any prior experience with surfing, as these coaches are also some of the nicest people you’ll ever meet. Not to mention, La Union is also extremely budget-friendly!