17 best resorts in the Philippines – which one to choose for recreation, photo, description, map
Lost in the oceans and seas, the island state (more than 7 thousand islands) of the Philippines can rightly be proud of its resorts. They are located on the largest inhabited islands and are becoming more and more attractive for tourists. The exotic beauty of nature, the mass of water activities, many places for diving, developed infrastructure make the resorts of the Philippines attractive and in demand.
Manila
Megapolis, the 2nd largest city in the country and the most populous city in the world Manila is the capital of the Philippines and the main resort of the archipelago. The city is located on the east coast of Manila Bay in the western part of Luzon Island. This is a subequatorial climate zone with 2 weather seasons – dry (November-April) and wet (May-October).
In the dry season, Manila is visited by almost 5 million people, in the remaining months about 3 million. In addition to active and passive beach and sea leisure, tourists have the opportunity to see many unique architectural and historical monuments of the ancient city. Manila was captured in different eras by the Spaniards, the British, the Americans and the Japanese, who left a memory of themselves in various places of interest.
The ancient historical district of Manila Intramuros is an open-air museum with the Spanish fortress of Santiago. Christian churches, Buddhist temples, Muslim mosques appear before the eyes of the guests. A number of museums introduces the culture and history of the country. Day and night, the resort is full of day and night life: water activities, excursions, discos, concerts, attractions, sea voyages fill the leisure of tourists.
Boracay
A tropical fairy tale in reality – this is how you can characterize the island of Boracay, which looks like a picture from a bounty advertisement. The unearthly beauty of landscapes with snow-white sand, transparent azure sea, fantastic sunsets makes the most sophisticated tourists freeze with delight. On the one hand, Boracay stretches for several kilometers “White Beach” on the other – Balabog.
The white beach is preferred by those who like a calm, lazy holiday with swimming and lying, with visits to bars and cafes. And there are plenty of them here: pubs, hookahs, coffeeshops, massages, etc. A constant wind blows on Balabog, creating waves. It is the refuge of athletes, the center of water sports schools and equipment rentals. Experienced windsurfers, kite surfers demonstrate their ability to conquer the waves. Beginning athletes have the opportunity to learn the basics of this skill.
In the evenings, almost the entire island turns into a fire show arena. The influx of tourists had a negative impact on the ecology of Boracay, so in April 2018, the island was closed to visitors for sanitary quarantine for six months. Fire shows, diving, casinos and souvenir boutiques are now banned, but this has not lost Boracay's charm.
Palawan
If you hold a competition of the most beautiful places on the planet, then, probably, the island of Palawan will take far from the last place. The local landscapes amaze the imagination in such a way that one cannot believe in their reality. It seems that white cliffs with an emerald forest cap, bright green rice fields are the scenery for an adventure film. There are no natural wonders here: mangrove forests, impenetrable jungles, underground rivers, waterfalls, exotic fauna.
Palawan, along with other neighboring islands, is the largest province in the Philippines and the most uninhabited. Pristine beaches, authentic villages and towns, country roads among the riot of tropical greenery create a surreal picture. Puerto Princesa is the largest city and capital of Palawan, where planes land, the main hotels are located.
The coast of the island with a length of 2 thousand km – sandy beaches, picturesque masses of rocks protruding from the water and approaching from land, the cleanest sea. Thousands of sq. km of coral reefs protected by UNESCO. Lovers of exploring the mysteries of nature will find a lot of interesting things in Palawan. In the village Sabanga is an underground river of the same name that flows through a karst cave with stunning stalactites and stalagmites. She (the river) was included in the 28 “new wonders of the world” and is included in the UNESCO world list.
Gentlemen
This island, described in P. Monteclaro's book “Maragtas”, is washed by the Sibuyan Sea from the north, and the Sulu Sea and Panay Bay from the southwest. The book tells the story of the appearance on the island of the ancient Malays – the ancestors of the Filipinos, and for the inhabitants of the island it is the main literary work. As in Palawan, Panay has many exotic beauties, natural phenomena, unusually interesting and mysterious.
The western coast is distinguished by its uniqueness, famous for diving objects: the underwater walls of Buruang and Nasog, the Black Rock, the steep cliff of Dog Drift, etc. Beginner divers seek here – huge coral colonies, enchanting flocks of tropical fish, excellent visibility create favorable conditions for inexperienced athletes.
Stalactite-stalagmite caves are extremely interesting on the island. In the most voluminous of them, Pangikhan, such calcareous formations are almost 5 million years old. Panay will appeal to those who delve into the secrets of nature, seek to explore. Although there is expanse for fans of a measured beach holiday – there are more than enough wonderful beaches. Comfortable modern hotels, night clubs, elite restaurants will satisfy any requests.
Cebu
Paradise Island is a multifunctional resort where virgin nature is harmoniously combined with civilized comfort. Charming lagoons with crystal clear water, an abundance of coral reefs with the richest ocean fauna, amazing beaches and a variety of palm trees – this is the natural backdrop of Cebu. Tourists are guaranteed a serene quality stay throughout the island, comfortable accommodation in luxurious all-inclusive hotels.
There are many small islands around Cebu, where expanse for snorkelers and surfers, cave explorers. Divers are provided with an exciting activity to explore the unique underwater world. In addition to the coral walls, the remains of several shipwrecks lie on the seabed, beckoning deep-sea divers from all over the world.
But there are many interesting things on land in Cebu: architectural and religious monuments of the Spanish era attract the close attention of guests. Fort San Pedro, the Basilica of Santo Niño, which houses the image of the Christ Child, are the most popular tourist sites. Local shopping centers, shops, markets offer a large selection of national souvenirs and other goods.
Bohol
Southeast of Cebu is an island of volcanic origin, the 10th largest in the Philippine Bohol archipelago. It is surrounded by a small island of 70 small islands that form a single resort area. The island of Bohol is connected to the largest of them – the island of Panglao by a bridge and a highway. Everything here is distinguished by a special natural and everyday flavor.
The relief of Bohol is hilly: 1.5 thousand hills cover the surface of the island. They were nicknamed “chocolate” for the brown color of the drying grass. The contrast of brown hills and bright tropical greenery makes the area very picturesque. 261 km of coast – a tropical paradise with coral sandy beaches, many colorful caves, crystal waterfalls and lush emerald flora.
Rest among such beauties is truly heavenly. And for divers and snorkelers, there are endless expanses of the deep sea. On land, with rich flora and fauna, there are also a lot of interesting things. Tourists are very interested in the excursion to the Tarsier Center – a rare species of tiny monkeys with big eyes. These cute creatures in their natural environment live only in Bohol, but you can see and communicate with them in a specially fenced park. Staying in Bohol gives bright unforgettable impressions.
Siquijor
For many Filipinos, the name of this island province of Siquijor causes mystical fear. Most likely, such a perception of the island is associated not only with the sorcerers and magicians still practicing there, but also with the presence of a huge number of fireflies that live on trees. At sunset, they reflect the iridescent radiance, which is why Siquijor is otherwise called Isla del Fuego (island of fire).
However, tourists are not at all afraid of the mystical background of a wonderful island with beautiful natural attractions. Especially in recent years, streams of people float on ferries to enjoy the most beautiful sight of white beaches, large and small waterfalls, azure sea and tropical flora. On the territory of Siquijor there are 6 towns, each of which has the necessary tourist infrastructure, ancient temples and the extraordinary friendliness of the locals.
The main transport in the resort is motorbikes, tricycles and multi-cabs. The absence of heavy transport contributes to even greater cleanliness of the environment. The underwater world around is a truly fantastic picture, and divers have been visiting Siquijor for a long time. Excursions to mangrove parks, the Butterfly Garden, to caves, to mysterious objects are impressive to the core. Many different food establishments, from small eateries to international restaurants, provide food for holidaymakers.
Malapaskuya
Not far from the northern end of the island of Cebu is a tiny island (2.5 km X 1 km) Malapascuya. The name, consisting of 2 words, is translated from Spanish as “bad Christmas“. When the Spaniards first landed here at Christmas, there was a storm. 5 thousand people live here in 8 villages, serving mainly 20 hotels. Those who are not employed in this area fish, grow vegetables and other agricultural products.
Although getting to Malapaska is not easy, the difficulties of the path do not stop curious tourists seeking to plunge into the atmosphere of pristine nature. She is not yet spoiled by civilization. The cleanest uncrowded beaches, clear water, an abundance of dive sites are attractive factors for many, especially from November to May, when there is little rainfall. Here, deep-sea thresher sharks are found in coastal zones, swimming in shallow water for cleaning procedures with cleaner wrasses.
Divers take advantage of these moments to see these amazing creatures up close. The first foreigner (Swiss) who bought land here appeared on the island 30 years ago. After 10 years, he opened the 1st hotel, now there are 20 of them, and they are not empty. The beaches of Logon Beach, Bounty Beach, Lighthouse, Tavigan are recognized as the most popular in Malapaskua. They are amazingly beautiful, well-maintained and at the same time captivate with their originality.
Kalanggaman
A tiny bounty island (800 m long) is located northeast of Cebu Island, next to Palompon. When you first come here, you immediately think: “This is where the real paradise is” – in other words, it is difficult to describe Kalanggaman Island. Nature as a painter used her most gentle tones to depict a landscape picture. White-pinkish sand, transparent aquamarine of the sea, openwork crowns of palm trees under the bright blue of the sky – an artistic masterpiece that captivates with harmonious beauty.
Crowds of tourists do not come here, so the errors of civilization did not negatively affect the ecology of Kalangman. Getting to paradise is not so easy and mostly as part of a group paid tour from Palompon and Cebu. Everyone is transported by boat for 100 pesos (160 rubles), for a visit 500 pesos (300 rubles).
While swimming, you can see the seabed at a depth of 10 meters – the water is so transparent. It is no coincidence that snorkellers are based on Kalangman. Bright yellow, red, colorful fish, corals, clown fish – the underwater world around is truly magical. There is space for photography and video filming. Those who have had the pleasure of seeing sunsets on Kallangman will never forget them.
Davao
The largest resort city, the second largest after Manila, Davao was mastered by the Spaniards in 1848 on the island of Mindanao. Having ousted the Spaniards in 1900, the Americans created the conditions for the economic prosperity of the resort. Today it is the most popular tourist attraction not only due to highly developed infrastructure, but also due to favorable natural factors.
In the waters of Davao, there are almost never storms, and even more so, typhoons. The city is protected from the wind by high mountains, also affecting the climate, which does not have a sharp contrast between dry and wet seasons. Comfortable weather without strong heat makes the resort year-round for visiting. It is important for holidaymakers that there is no crime here, thanks to the strict control of special police units. On the magnificent beaches of Davao, excellent conditions for active and passive recreation are created.
Diving schools are open here, the resort is rightfully considered the best diving center in the Philippines. Davao is absolutely safe for children and elderly guests to stay in it: car traffic is strictly limited, illegal trade in alcohol is being fought, and smoking in public places is being fought. Streets, beaches, hotels are sparkling clean. The development and prosperity of the city is facilitated by the presence of the main airport of the Philippines, which accepts passengers of domestic and international flights.
Samal
The Southern Philippine Island is known throughout the world as a haven for raw food tourists who eat here only a variety of tropical fruits and vegetables. Some of them, including Russians, even stay permanently in Samal. Cozy bungalow hotels, paradise nature, an abundance of fruits, seafood, good beaches make the rest here comfortable. Flights from Moscow here take a lot of time with a transfer in Manila to Davao. From there you need to take a ferry to Samal and from there to your destination by motorcycle taxi or bus.
Probably, due to the difficulty of the way to Samal, the bulk of tourists are Filipinos who come here from cities on weekends and holidays. They are drawn here by the beautiful landscapes, amazing beaches, the atmosphere of authentic rural life and the opportunity to overeat all kinds of fruits. But not everything is so euphoric and cloudless in Samal.
There are problems with transport, which often makes accidents on steep mountain serpentines. It is difficult to find comfortable housing here with all the benefits of civilization. There is a risk of contracting the deadly form of dengue fever, which is spread by mosquitoes. It is definitely not worth coming here with small children.
Talikud
A tiny island near Mindano is a place where almost all the exotic fruits of the tropics grow: bananas, coconuts, avocados, papaya, atimoya and much more. Here the blue of the sky merges with the azure of the sea and it seems that there is a continuous ocean around. But walking through the territory of Talikud, you are convinced that such earthly beauties are located on this piece of land, which are breathtaking.
Almost wild snow-white beaches washed by transparent waters, lush grass under the coconut palms going up, “toy” houses of local residents – all this looks like a fabulous popular print, and not reality. Ferries arrive at Talikud from the port of Magsaysay (Davao) and moor at the port of Santa Cruz. Next to it is Isla Reta Beach, the largest beach on the island with white sand, clear sea.
There are no buildings on it, there are usually few people – secluded relaxation is guaranteed. On other beaches (Dayang, Babusanta), there are houses right off the coast that can be rented for 500 pesos per day. Here, coconuts are sold right from the palm trees or treated for free. A few days of staying in this tropical paradise will be remembered for a lifetime.
Carabao
The cute cozy island of Carabao, located not far from Boracay, contrasts with it with silence, peace, virginity of nature, an atmosphere of relaxation and serenity. But at the same time, the external untouchedness of nature is combined with the presence of comfortable hotels with Internet and TV, bars and cafes. If you want to completely immerse yourself in the life of a small island with its friendly inhabitants, enjoy the stunning tropical villas, take a break from the noise of the cities, this is the right place.
You can come on a 1-day excursion, spend your honeymoon days or a week of complete relaxation here. All the charms of modern civilization will be provided by 4-star hotels, local bars will offer cool drinks. Most of the time you can devote to swimming, sunbathing, communicating with the kindest Filipinos, observing the local fauna and flora, kayaking. Thrill-seekers can jump from the rocks into the lagoons, and divers are ready to dive to the depth around the clock, where there is something to see. A lot of fun will bring swimming with a mask and snorkel.
Coron
This small island near the island of Buasanga is not only a natural, but also an ethnographic unique of the Philippines. Fantastic nature, incredible landscapes, a veil of almost primitive mysticism make Coron the most mysterious tourist attraction. Steep rocky shores, overgrown with dense greenery, 11 stunning lakes, bays with emerald water, a beautiful sandy beach – this is the landscape of Coron.
It is open to tourists only for excursions, there are no hotels and other establishments. Aborigines live on it – a truly wild tribe that does not allow other people to 99% of the territory. However, in recent years group boat tours from Buasang have been allowed. The locals realized the material benefits of the visits. Tourists have something to see in these amazing reserved places.
Sacred lake Kayangan with emerald water among the picturesque cliffs – it is difficult to describe in words an amazing sight! There are wooden bridges around the water area, from which people admire the surrounding landscapes, they leave things on them while swimming (it is recommended to swim in life jackets) The 2nd of the visited lakes of Barracuda Lake is just as beautiful. It was chosen by divers diving to a depth of more than 20 m. Even a short stay here leaves a strong impression.
Dumagete
A comfortable modern resort and the ancient city of Dumaguete on Negros Island has long been a favorite vacation spot for many Russians. The small town is very clean, immersed in the greenery of palm trees and other tropical flora. Active resort life is in full swing on the picturesque embankment, along which it is pleasant to make an evening promenade. The attention of everyone here is attracted by the monument “Nuns in boats. It was erected in honor of the nuns who sailed here to escape the Spanish invaders. As a sign of salvation, the nuns founded a monastery here.
An excellent well-maintained beach, clear sea, the opportunity to engage in water sports, good hotels make your vacation unforgettable. Deep impressions remain from visiting the ancient Spanish fort, an ancient cathedral located on the central square. Near these attractions are always full of people. Newlyweds get married here, wedding celebrations, national rites of the Filipinos take place. There is no shortage of various shopping establishments, cafes and bars.
Bantayan
A small island in the northwest of Cebu attracts vacationers with beautiful clean beaches and relatively low accommodation prices. It has all the necessary tourist infrastructure: hotels, restaurants, bars, shops. The resort of Santa Fe is especially popular – a recognized tourist center, in which everything is provided for the comfort of vacationers. There are also ATMs, which is important, since they are absent in other places in Bantayan.
People come to the island to enjoy sea swimming, beach pleasures, tropical flavor, and the taste of exotic fruits. On Bantayan there is no noisy nightlife, entertainment party. There are interesting natural and man-made sights: mysterious caves, a butterfly farm, an ancient Catholic cathedral in the administrative center – the city of Bantayan. It will appeal to those who are tired of life in a big city.
Siargao
The eastern island of the Philippines, belonging to the Mindanao group, is located north of the main island. Truly magical tropics open stunning beauty before the eyes of astonished tourists. White ribbons of sand, light turquoise of the sea, bizarre rocks that form cozy lagoons, an abundance of coconut trees – an impressive picture especially for those who come to Siargao (island of palms) for the first time.
This is the unofficial Philippine surf center. It is here on the east coast that the world-famous surf spot “Cloyd 9” is located, where famous wave conquerors hone their skills. High tides from the open ocean with large Pacific waves create good surfing conditions. Surf equipment rentals are open all over the coast, there are knowledgeable instructors, and a rescue service.