TOP 12 FASCINATING TOURIST SPOTS IN THE PHILIPPINES: BEST PLACES TO VISIT FOR UNWINDING

Indicative of the Philippines as a whole

You can find the Philippines in Southeast Asia. It’s an archipelago made up of 7,641 islands and has a total land size of almost 300,000 square kilometers. The country is bounded west by the South China Sea, east by the Philippine Sea, and south by the Celebes Sea.

Furthermore, the Malay, Chinese, Spanish, and American populations have contributed to the Philippines’ incredibly vibrant and multifaceted cultural landscape. Over a hundred languages and dialects are spoken in the Philippines, although Filipino and English are the official languages.

Moreover, it is a presidential democracy. Among the world’s countries, it ranks 12th in population size at about 110 million people. The country attracts tourists with its stunning tourist spots, coastline, tasty local fare, and friendly locals.

The Philippines is a stunning country with a wide variety of attractions.

Many of the country’s stunning natural tourist spots have been protected. They are well-maintained by the government, so tourists can enjoy them without worrying about contributing to further environmental damage.
Tourists can partake in outdoor activities like hiking and rock climbing in the mountains, scuba diving in the seas, and cave and cavern exploration.

1. BORACAY (TOURIST SPOT)

Boracay Island is one of the tourist spots in the Philippines; it is a famous vacation spot because of its picture-perfect white-sand shores and turquoise waterways. Snorkeling, scuba diving, and windsurfing are just a few water activities available to guests, who can lounge on the beach and take in the rays.

Find out more about this tourist spot in Boracay by reading the details below. To learn more about Boracay, read on!

Boracay is a Philippines tourist spot island paradise with pristine beaches, turquoise oceans, and stunning sunsets. A fantastic getaway from the bustle of the city, this tiny island is only 7 kilometers in length and 1 kilometer in width.

The variety of beaches on Boracay is one of the island’s defining characteristics. White Beach, the most well-known tourist spot of the islands’ beaches, is four kilometers long and is divided into three sections known as “stations.” There is a distinct difference in the atmospheres of Stations 1 and 3, with Station 1 being the most upscale and Station 3 being the most casual. Nevertheless, White Beach isn’t the only gorgeous beach in the area; there are plenty more, such as Puka Beach, famous for its Puka shells, and Bulabog Beach, ideal for kiteboarding and windsurfing.

Tourist Spot Boracay’s native culture is another facet that sets it apart. The Aklanons are the island’s indigenous people and have their own culture and language. Travelers to the Philippines can get a taste of the local culture by attending cultural events and dining on regional specialties like a roasted pig (lechon) and raw seafood (kinilaw) salad (marinated in vinegar and spices). Adventurers will find much to do on Boracay as well. Island-hopping, scuba diving, snorkeling, parasailing, and even cliff leaping are all available to tourists. Spa treatments and yoga classes are also available for a more relaxing getaway.

Boracay’s natural beauty and pure atmosphere have been preserved, despite the island’s status as a popular tourist destination. The island’s natural ecosystem and natural resources are under rigorous protection thanks to the government’s strong environmental legislation.

In sum, the tourist spot Boracay is a fantastic island paradise that has something to offer every traveler. Boracay is a great place to visit whether you want to kick back and relax, experience something new, or learn about another culture.

The following are numerous routes to Boracay Island:

1. Visit either Kalibo International Airport or Caticlan Airport.

A larger airport, Kalibo International Airport, is located off-island. There are a lot of flights from other countries. In terms of proximity, Caticlan Airport is the best option; nevertheless, it is much smaller and primarily serves internal flights.

2. To get to the airport from Kalibo:

Get on a bus or van and get dropped off at Caticlan Jetty Port (approximately 1.5 to 2 hours). You can reach Boracay by boat from Caticlan Jetty Port (about 15 minutes).

3. Beginning at the Caticlan Airport

Get to the Caticlan Jetty Port via tricycle or cab (approximately 10 to 15 minutes). You can reach Boracay by boat from Caticlan Jetty Port (about 15 minutes).

There are numerous options for getting to Boracay Island, including renting a tricycle or motorcycle once you get there.

Indeed, here’s the list of popular hotels and restaurants in a tourist spot in Boracay to visit:

Hotels:

• Discovery Shores Boracay
• Henann Lagoon Resort
• The Lind Boracay
• Crimson Resort & Spa Boracay
• Fairways and Bluewater Boracay

Restaurants:

• Dos Mestizos
• Mama’s Fish House
• Sunny Side Cafe

Visitors wishing to make the most of their time in tourist spots in Boracay should stay at one of these hotels and eat at one of these restaurants, which are well-known for their excellent service and the beauty and deliciousness of their food.

A trip o Palawan is the next destination you won’t regret. Nothing is missing from this tourist spot to make your holiday enjoyable and restful.

2. PUERTO PRINCESA UNDERGROUND RIVER (TOURIST SPOT)

Palawan is another must-see tourist spot because it has been voted “World’s Best Island” by Lonely Planet, Travel + Leisure, and others on several occasions. Puerto Princesa Underground River, El Nido, and Coron Island are all located on the Philippine island of Palawan, home to the spectacular Puerto Princesa Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

One of Nature’s New Seven Wonders is the Puerto Princesa Underground River, which may be found in Palawan, Philippines. The river is the longest underground river in the world at almost 8 kilometers in length, and it travels through an intricate cave system.

Because of its rich habitat, there are many different kinds of bats, fish, and other marine life in the Underground River. The cave formations and stalactites add to the splendor of the 45-minute to 1-hour guided boat excursion down the river that visitors can enjoy.

The Cathedral, a large cavernous area with a high vaulted ceiling, and the Immaculate Conception, a rock structure resembling the Virgin Mary, are two of the Underground River’s most famous geological features.

Not only are tourists forbidden from carrying food or drink into the caves along the Underground River, but they are also strictly prohibited from touching the cave formations themselves. It is also highly suggested to book in advance due to the limited daily visitor capacity.

Anybody traveling to the Philippines should stop at the Puerto Princesa Underground River, as it provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the beauty of nature in an unmatched setting.

Here are the directions to the Puerto Princesa Underground River:

1. To begin, you must get to the airport serving Puerto Princesa.

Domestic flights from major Philippine cities arrive at Puerto Princesa International Airport, the city’s principal entry point.

2. Take a van or bus to Sabang from Puerto Princesa International Airport.

The trips begin at Sabang, a tiny village near the underground river.

3. Ride a boat to the bottom of the mountain and explore the hidden river.

It is possible to reach the beginning of the underground river by taking a boat from Sabang. It takes roughly 20 minutes to travel by boat.

4. Go on an adventure down the underground river.

Your tour guide will lead you on an exciting journey into the cave as soon as you reach the underground river. The tour will take 45 minutes to an hour, and along the way, you will view some spectacular stalactites and stalagmites.

5. To get back to Sabang and Puerto Princesa

Following the excursion, you will return to Sabang via boat, where you can go shopping or enjoy the beach. Hop on a van or bus in Sabang, and you’ll return to Puerto Princesa quickly.

To guarantee your spot on the underground river tour, you should reserve in advance, especially in the high season.

3. EL NIDO (TOURIST SPOT)

El Nido is located near Palawan’s very point in the Philippines and is one of the best tourist spots. It attracts many visitors every year due to the beauty of its beaches, water, and massive limestone cliffs. It’s also a fantastic place to go snorkeling or scuba diving due to the area’s rich marine life.

There are over 50 white-sand beaches and secret lagoons in Bacuit Bay, one of El Nido’s most popular tourist destinations. Tourists can join island-hopping cruises to reach these hidden gems, such as Huge Lagoon, Secret Beach, and Hidden Beach.

Dive spots in El Nido include Dilumacad Island, South Miniloc, and North Rock, where you may swim among turtles, stingrays, and tropical fish, among other marine life.

Several hiking paths in El Nido lead to breathtaking vistas, such as those of Taraw Peak and Nagkalit-kit Waterfall. Nagtabon Beach and Nacpan Beach are two more beautiful beaches that welcome tourists with calm waters and stunning landscapes.

El Nido is well-known for its lively bar and restaurant scene, which features fare worldwide. There are a variety of hotels and resorts in town to accommodate visitors.

If you’re looking for a place to unwind, explore, and be surrounded by stunning natural scenery of this tourist spot, go no further than El Nido. Because of its stunning coastline, pristine waters, and abundant marine life, it is one of the Philippines’ most popular tourist spots.

Following these directions will bring you to the beautiful island of Palawan, where El Nido is located:

1. Go aboard a plane and head to Puerto Princesa Airport.

Domestic flights from major cities in the Philippines land at Puerto Princesa International Airport, making it the primary access point to Palawan.

2. Transportation to El Nido is easy via van or bus from Puerto Princesa International Airport.

Travel time from Puerto Princesa’s San Jose Terminal by van or bus to El Nido is around 5–6 hours. Taxis and private cars are other options, although they will cost extra.

3. Reach El Nido, and start looking about.

El Nido is a great place to visit for many reasons, including its beaches and island-hopping trips.

When planning your transportation, it is highly suggested that you do so in advance, especially during peak season. The more rapid and convenient option is to take an Air SWIFT aircraft from Manila to El Nido.

4. CORON ISLAND (TOURIST SPOT)

In the Philippines, the Calamian Islands are home to a group of islands known as Coron Island. The island’s gorgeous beaches, clear waters, and towering limestone cliffs make it a haven for beach bums, explorers, and other outdoor enthusiasts.

Coron Bay, on Coron Island, is a famous destination for scuba divers since it is home to several ships that sank during World War II. These sunken vessels are now a beautiful underwater attraction thanks to the colorful corals and aquatic life that have colonized them.

Coron Island also features the stunning Twin Lagoon, two different lagoons connected by a short gap in the limestone cliffs. The lagoons are filled with pure blue water and surrounded by lush foliage; visitors can swim or kayak through the entrance to explore them.

Malcapuya Island Beach, Banana Island Beach, and Kayangan Lake Beach are just a few of the stunning beaches on Coron Island. Indulge in some R&R, a swim, and some of the island’s pristine beauty at any of these beaches.

Coron Island is home to a rich cultural heritage and beautiful scenery. Travelers will enjoy seeing the island’s historic fishing towns, interacting with the warm and welcoming residents, and learning about the island’s fascinating past.

Travelers can reach Coron Island by flight from Manila to Busuanga Island, the principal entry point to the Calamian Islands. It is also the starting point for trips to Coron Island via ferry or boat. Coron Island is just one stop on the itineraries offered by the several tour companies that conduct island-hopping tours in the area.

The island of Coron in Palawan is a stunning sight, and any visitor to the Philippines should not miss it. Coron Island is one of the gorgeous islands in the Philippines. Its natural beauty, rich history and culture, and outdoor activities make for a vacation that will leave tourists feeling refreshed and delighted.

These are the directions to Coron Island:

1. Take a plane to Busuanga’s Francisco B. Reyes Airport.

Domestic flights from Manila and other major Philippine cities stop at Francisco B. Reyes Airport, Coron’s primary airport.

2. Just hop in a vehicle or a taxi at Francisco B. Reyes Airport and head to Coron Town.

Travel time in a van or taxi is between 30 to 45 minutes.

3. To reach Coron Island, one must arrive at Coron Town, where boats will transport one to the island.

Coron Island is just one stop on various island-hopping itineraries offered by multiple boat companies. To get to Coron Island, you can also charter a private boat. Depending on the conditions, the boat voyage might last anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour and a half.

4. Go to Coron Island and start looking around!

The sights of Coron Island, such as Twin Lagoon, Kayangan Lake, and the ships from World War II, are yours to discover after you arrive.

Plan and reserve your transportation and boat tours to avoid disappointment, especially during the busiest times of the year.

There are various activities available in the Philippines for people who enjoy being outdoors and experiencing new things. These include hiking in the Cordillera Mountains, surfing on Siargao Island, and swimming with whale sharks in Oslob.

1. You May find some rewarding hiking opportunities in the Philippines in the Cordillera Mountains in the far northern region. Listed below are some examples of the most popular, most recommended locations in the Cordillera Mountains for going hiking:

5. MOUNT PULAG (TOURIST SPOT)

Mount Pulag, the “playground of the gods,” is the third-highest peak in the Philippines and is home to a stunning sunrise.

Here are some options for reaching Mount Pulag from within the Philippines:

1. You can reach Baguio City, the largest settlement around Mount Pulag, by taking a bus from Manila. Depending on the route and the traffic, the bus travel may last anywhere from seven to nine hours. Take a bus from Baguio City to Kabayan, Benguet, the starting site for the Mount Pulag treks.
2. You can go from Manila to Baguio City and then on to Kabayan in a private vehicle, either one you own or one you rent. It could take 7 to 9 hours to make the trip.
3. Via tour package: Many travel agencies in Manila and Baguio City provide Mount Pulag day trips, including lodging, food, and a guide.

You’ll need a permit from the DENR (Department of Environment and Natural Resources) to summit Pulag, and it’s for your safety that we advise you to work with a local guide.

6. MOUNT ULAP (TOURIST SPOT)

Mount Ulap is a mountain that can be found in Itogon, Benguet. Climbing up Mount Ulap takes you through pine trees, grasslands, and rolling hills while providing breathtaking views of the mountains in the surrounding area.

In the northern Philippines, Itogon, Benguet is home to another well-known trekking destination: Mount Ulap. You can gain access to Mount Ulap in a few different ways.

1. The closest major city to Mount Ulap is Baguio City, which can be reached by bus from Manila. Depending on the route and the traffic, the bus travel may last anywhere from seven to nine hours. Barangay Ampucao is the starting site for the Mount Ulap path, and you may reach it from Baguio City via jeepney or taxi.
2. Go from Manila to Baguio City and Barangay Ampucao in Itogon in the comfort of your car or rented vehicle. It could take 7 to 9 hours to make the trip.
3. Hiking packages to Mount Ulap are available from several tour companies. Most of them include round-trip transportation from Manila or Baguio City, lodgings, and the services of a guide.

Remember that you’ll need permission from the local government and, for your safety, a local guide to summit Mount Ulap. Remember that the summit temperature can be as low as 10 degrees Celsius, so be sure to bring warm clothing and the necessary hiking equipment.

7. MOUNT KALAWITAN (TOURIST SPOT)

One of the Cordillera Mountains’ highest points, Mount Kalawitan, makes for a strenuous but worthwhile walk thanks to its breathtaking landscape panoramas.

Mount Kalawitan may be found in the northern Philippine province of Ifugao. Several suggested routes to Mount Kalawitan are as follows:

1. You can reach Banaue, the largest settlement around Mount Kalawitan, by taking a bus from Manila. The bus travel could last anywhere from 9–10 hours, depending on traffic. It is possible to take a jeepney or a tricycle from Banaue to the base of Mount Kalawitan.
2. Go from Manila to Banaue in the comfort of your automobile (or rented car) by taking the highway. Depending on the route and the amount of traffic, the trip could take anywhere from 9–10 hours. It’s possible to drive to the base of Mount Kalawitan from Banaue.
3. Hiking Mount Kalawitan is a popular activity in the Philippines, and several tour companies offer packages that include transportation from Manila or Banaue, lodging, and a guide.

Take note that you need a local government permit and a guide to summit Mount Kalawitan. In addition, make sure you bring the right equipment and clothing for the hike, as the temperature at the peak can drop to as low as 10 degrees Celsius.

8. MOUNT AMUYAO (TOURIST SPOT)

Mount Amuyao is a mountain located on the border of the provinces of Ifugao and Mountain Province. Climbing Mount Amuyao will take you on a beautiful journey through rice terraces and pine forests and reward you with breathtaking vistas of the Cordillera Mountains and the town of Sagada.

There is a mountain named Mount Amuyao in the northern Philippines, in the Cordillera Administrative Region. Go to Mount Amuyao in one of these ways:

1. You can reach Banaue, the largest settlement around Mount Amuyao, by taking a bus from Manila. The bus travel could last anywhere from 9–10 hours, depending on traffic. If you’re in Banaue, you can ride a jeepney or a tricycle to the base of Mount Amuyao.
2. Those renting a car can easily travel from Manila to Banaue. Depending on the route and the amount of traffic, the trip could take anywhere from 9–10 hours. The trailhead for Mount Amuyao is easily accessible by car from Banaue.
3. Some travel companies in the Philippines offer guided hikes up Mount Amuyao as part of a package deal that includes round-trip transportation from Manila or Banaue, lodging, and a guide.

For your safety, it is recommended that you employ a local guide and obtain a permit from the local authorities before attempting to climb Mount Amuyao. In addition, make sure you bring the right equipment and clothing for the hike, as the temperature at the peak can drop to as low as 10 degrees Celsius.

9. MOUNT YANGBEW (TOURIST SPOT)

Mt. Yangbew is a peak found in the municipality of La Trinidad in the province of Benguet. Climbing Mt. Yangbew will take you past vegetable gardens and pine forests and reward you with a breathtaking view of the mountains and valleys in the region.

At La Trinidad, Benguet, in the northern Philippines, Mt. Yangbew (or Mt. Jumbo) is a famous trekking destination. To help you reach the summit of Mt. Yangbew, we’ve provided the following options:

1. Take a jeepney from Baguio City to La Trinidad, and get out at the town hall. You can then transfer to a jeepney to Barangay Tawang and get off at the base of Mt. Yangbew.
2. Taxi service is available between Baguio City and the base of Mt. Yangbew. The fare could be different depending on the time of day and where you are.
3. If you have a car or can hire one in Baguio, you can drive to the base of Mt. Yangbew from there. Time in traffic can range from 20 minutes to an hour.

Although neither a permit nor an admission fee is necessary, it is strongly advised that you bring along a local guide when ascending Mt. Yangbew. Ensure you bring suitable clothing and equipment for the trip, as the weather might become chilly, and the terrain can get muddy.

10. MOUNT TIMBAC (TOURIST SPOT)

Mount Timbac is a peak that can be found in Atok, Benguet. It is accessible via a climb that takes visitors through vegetable gardens, pine trees, and grasslands. Along the way, they are treated to breathtaking views of the mountains and rice terraces in the area.

Mount Timbac in the northern Filipino municipality of Atok, Benguet. Here are a few suggested routes to Mount Timbac:

1. You may get to Baguio City, the closest major city to Mount Timbac, by taking a bus from Manila. To go to Atok from Baguio City, take a van or bus in that direction, then get off at the commercial hub. You can hire a motorcycle or jeepney there to take you to Mount Timbac’s starting point.
2. If you have a car or can hire one in Baguio, you can drive to the base of Mount Timbac from there. Time spent in transit often ranges from two to three hours.
3. To hike Mount Timbac, visitors can sign up for a tour package, which often includes round-trip transportation from Baguio City or Manila, lodging, and a guide.

You’ll need permission from the local authorities and should travel with a local guide if you want to summit Mount Timbac. In addition, make sure you bring the right equipment and clothing for the hike, as the temperature at the peak can drop to as low as 10 degrees Celsius.

Hiking in the Cordillera Mountains is an excellent opportunity to see the natural beauty of the Philippines while also posing a physical challenge to oneself. These hiking spots provide trails of varying degrees of difficulty, so regardless of your hiking expertise, you should be able to find a path that suits your needs among the available options.

11. SIARGAO ISLAND (TOURIST SPOT)

Siargao Island in the Philippines is often considered a surfer’s paradise. The island’s pristine beaches, clean waters, and easygoing island feel provide some of the best waves and breaks in the country.

Cloud 9 is a renowned right-hand reef break on Siargao Island that draws surfers worldwide. The southeast monsoon season (May–October) is the finest time to ride this wave because of its consistent size and long, hollow barrel sections.

Stimpies, a fast and hollow left-hand wave, is best surfed at high tide, and Jacking Horse, a long and short right-hand wave, are excellent surfing places on Siargao Island.

In addition, Siargao Island provides a variety of surfing packages and courses for novice and experienced surfers. Professional coaches offer one-on-one lessons to help surfers of all levels develop their abilities and knowledge.

Siargao Island is known mainly for its excellent surfing, but it also features several other sports and sights. The island has a thriving nightlife with plenty of opportunities to unwind after a long day of surfing at beach bars featuring live music.

In conclusion, Siargao Island is a gorgeous vacation spot thanks to its excellent surfing, picture-perfect beaches, and easygoing island atmosphere. No matter how experienced a surfer you are, a visit to Siargao Island in the Philippines will satisfy your craving for the best surfing culture in the Philippines.

Siargao Island is a famous vacation spot in the southern Filipino province of Surigao del Norte. Travel options to Siargao Island include:

1. Flying to Siargao Island is the quickest and most hassle-free option. To get to Siargao Island from the other Filipino cities of Manila, Cebu, and Davao, you can take one of several direct flights offered by airlines, including Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, and SkyJet. Depending on where you’re starting from, the flight time could be an hour to two hours.
2. You can also reach Siargao Island from Surigao City by using a ferry. From Surigao City, passengers can take many daily ferry rides to Siargao Island’s Dapa or Del Carmen port. The ferry voyage can last two to three hours, depending on the weather and the water.
3. Travelers from adjacent cities like Butuan, Davao, or Cagayan de Oro can take a bus or van to Surigao City to catch a ferry to Siargao Island.

You can hire a habal-habal (motorcycle or taxi) after you arrive on Siargao Island to carry you to your lodgings or anywhere else. Some places may also provide transfers to and from the airport or port.

12. OSLOB WHALE SHARK (TOURIST SPOT)

The opportunity to swim with whale sharks in Oslob, Cebu, is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure and one of the tourist spots in the Philippines. Swimming with these gentle giants, known as “butanding” in the local tongue, is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and an experience you won’t soon forget.

Oslob, a little village in the southeast of Cebu, has gained notoriety thanks to its whale shark observation and engagement program. Visitors can swim and snorkel with whale sharks in their natural habitat with the help of the program’s experienced guides.

To attract the whale sharks, local fishermen in Oslob anchor their small boats near the shore and toss the shark’s krill and other small fish. As a result, tourists now have an unparalleled opportunity to observe these magnificent animals up close and personal and do so with a high degree of certainty throughout the year.

Swimming in Oslob is a strictly restricted activity to ensure the safety of both humans and whale sharks. Before the training begins, a mandatory lecture is given to all participants, outlining rules such as avoiding touching the whale sharks and maintaining a safe distance.

Oslob’s whale shark watching and interaction program requires advanced reservations as a popular tourist destination. Although swimming with whale sharks is an exciting activity, treating the animals and their environment with the utmost care and adhering to all safety protocols is essential.

Swimming with whale sharks in Oslob is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to get up close and personal with these majestic creatures. It is an experienced tourist that should notice the Philippines and will make an impression that will soon be remembered.

Travelers to the Philippines often stop in Oslob, Cebu, to see whale sharks. Travel options to Oslob are as follows:

1. The closest airport to Oslob is Mactan-Cebu International Airport, which has local and international flights. It’s possible to reach the South Bus Terminal in Cebu City from the airport via cab or bus.
2. A Ceres bus heading to Oslob departs from Cebu City’s South Bus Terminal. The trip could take anywhere from three to four hours, depending on traffic.
3. Driving from Cebu City to Oslob is an option for those who own or have access to a private automobile. It’s a three-hour drive, give or take, depending on traffic and road conditions.

The whale shark watching center is in Oslob, in the neighborhood of Tan-Awan. Daily, from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM, the center is open. Please be aware that there is a fee associated with the whale shark watching activity and that swimming with the whale sharks is highly restricted to protect the sharks.

The Philippines has several fascinating and attractions tourist spots showcasing the country’s distinct history, culture, stunning landscapes, superb beaches, and beautiful hiking places. These destinations are perfect for various vacation styles, whether looking for a thrill on a mountain hike or a peaceful beach day. These places will surely leave you with beautiful memories that will last a lifetime.

Come and visit here in the Philippines and enjoy the numerous tourist destinations.

WRITTEN BY: ERICA MAE RULIDA