19 Breathtaking Places to Explore in The Philippines

With over 7,000 islands, the Philippines is a dream for beach lovers and underwater explorers alike. During my travels here (which was just over two months), I was constantly wowed by the powdery white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and some of the best marine life I’ve ever seen. If you’re planning your own island-hopping adventure, here are the standout spots from my travels that I’d wholeheartedly recommend…

1. El Nido

I thought this small beach town was an Instagrammer’s Dream! I thought it was a truly dazzling spot with towering limestone cliffs, powdery-white beaches, clear turquoise waters, tropical jungles, ancient limestone formations and a mix of charming thatched-roof cottages and rustic beachfront resorts. I loved how friendly the locals were which added to the laid back and casual small-town charm. 

I flew into Puerto Princesa International Airport and from there it was a 6-hour bus ride to El Nido and I stayed for a truly idyllic week!

I kayaked through the Big and Small Lagoons, snorkeled at Shimizu Island, explored the underwater tunnels at Dilumacad Island’s Helicopter Island, enjoyed the sunsets at Nacpan Beach, hiked to the peak of Taraw Cliff and saw incredible panoramic views, and dined at the beachfront restaurants in Las Cabanas.

• Location: West part of the country (northern tip of Palawan Island)
• Best time to visit: Dry season (for clear waters and perfect island-hopping weather).
• Activities on offer: Island-hopping, snorkeling, kayaking, and beach activities.
• Accommodation: El Nido Resorts, Lagen Island Resort, and various beachfront hotels and eco-lodges.
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights… 

• Staying at the Insta-worthy Panorama Boutique Hotel & Beach Club – I loved the boho details such as the woven rattan lampshades, concrete floors, and artisanal woodwork, as well as the cliffside infinity pool and open-air yoga deck!

2. Boracay Island 

This is a world-famous tourist destination! I thought it was breathtakingly beautiful with powdery white-sandy beaches, clear azure waters, seriously dreamy sunsets and a great blend of modern eco-friendly resorts, upscale hotels, and lively beachfront bars and beachside nightclubs! I loved how the island was relaxed and super-chilled by the day and that it transformed to a lively party vibe by night.

It’s located specifically in the Western Visayas region, it’s part of the province of Aklan and lies around 315 kilometers south of Manila, the capital city. It was just once a small fishing village, home to the Ati people before becoming a tourism hotspot and I loved that it was also home to awesome wildlife like monitor lizards, sea turtles and coral fish.

I flew to Caticlan Airport and took the easy 15 minute ferry ride from the jetty there (it was also possible to fly to Kalibo Airport) and spent a week on the island at the trendy and gorgeous Ferra Hotel and Garden Suites.

I tried awesome water sports at Bulabog Beach, went island-hopping and saw hidden coves, I watched the (braver than me!) cliff divers at Ariel’s Point, relaxed on the seriously stunning White Beach and Puka Shell Beach, watched the Paraw sailers at sunset and went to a fun reggae night at Station 2 nightclub. 

• Location: Central part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Dry season (to enjoy the beaches and water sports).
• Activities on offer: Beach activities, water sports, kite surfing, and nightlife.
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights… 

• Trying “helmet diving” for the first time – it was a seriously incredible (but also slightly scary) experience walking along the seabed with a guide while wearing a special helmet that provided breathable air! 

3. Coron

This was a dreamy tropical paradise in Palawan! I personally thought it was breathtaking filled with turquoise lagoons, towering limestone karsts, and pristine white-sand beaches, cute rustic seaside cottages and floating bamboo huts. I really enjoyed soaking up its laid-back vibes but it also felt adventurous too! 

I discovered it was located in northern Palawan, on Busuanga Island, and the town served as the gateway to the stunning Coron Bay, nearby islands, and marine sanctuaries in the Calamian Islands group. T

he small town had a population of around 65,000, and is famous for its World War II Japanese shipwrecks, stunning karst landscapes, and marine biodiversity. I found out that it was actually one of the top diving and island-hopping destinations in the whole country. 

I took an overnight ferry from Manila which took 12 hours and I stayed for an idyllic five days at the trendy and Insta-worthy Funny Lion Resort.

I went on breathtaking island-hopping adventures to Kayangan Lake and Twin Lagoon, went world-class wreck diving at Coron Bay’s WWII Japanese shipwrecks, snorkeled the pretty coral gardens at Siete Pecados, soaked in the Maquinit Hot Springs, and hiked up Mount Tapyas and saw stunning sunset views over the islands! 

• Location: West part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Dry season (for island-hopping and diving).
• Activities on offer: Island-hopping, snorkeling, diving, and hot spring visits.
• Accommodation: Two Seasons Coron Island Resort, Club Paradise, and eco-friendly lodges.
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights… 

• Seeing a large variety of hard and soft corals, anemones, and so many tropical fish species, from tiny clownfish to larger parrotfish while snorkeling at Siete Pecados Marine Park.

4. Panglao Island

This small tropical island was seriously Insta-worthy! I found a paradise-like place with Panglao Island powdery white beaches fringed by swaying palms and turquoise waters, dramatic limestone cliffs, clear dive spots teeming with coral and fish, and its mix of charming coastal villages and Spanish-era churches with coral stone walls. It felt relaxed and with a tropical laid back island vibe which I was totally taken with! 

I flew into into Bohol–Panglao International Airport and kicked back for a wonderful five days at the stunning and unique Mithi Resort & Spa. I spent it on my favorite beaches of Alona, Dumaluan, and Danao, and also went snorkeling at Balicasag and Pamilacan Islands, visited Hinagdanan Cave which had an intriguing underground lagoon.

I also found organic treats and dreamy sea views exploring at Bohol Bee Farm and admired the historic Dauis Church which had Spanish-era architecture and even a interesting freshwater well inside.

• Location: Central part of the country.
• Best time to visit: dry season from November to May, with the peak window between December and March
• Activities on offer: Snorkeling, diving, island hopping, cliff jumping, cave swimming, kayaking, beach lounging, and dining at Bohol Bee Farm.
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights… 

• Buying Amber-colored molave honey, nutty malunggay (moringa) honey and aromatic guava tea at the rustic and eco-friendly Bohol Bee Farm! 

5. Siquijor

This was an under-the-radar gem compared to other tourist hotspots! I discovered an island province with pristine white sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, lush tropical forests, unique wildlife (including large fruit bats, fireflies and the rare Visayan warty pig), Spanish colonial architecture, historic churches and mystical folklore. In fact, I loved how it combined traditional folk healing and mysticism with its natural beauty. 

I travelled to the island by ferry from Dumaguete Port, where ferries operated multiple times daily and took around 45 minutes. I spent five days here staying at the dreamy and peaceful Wilcon Guesthouse Catulayan and went swimming at the dreamy Salagdoong Beach, snorkeling at Paliton Beach, hiked to the captivating Cambugahay Falls and Mount Bandilaan (the panoramic views were incredible)! 

I also squeezed in a visit to the the historic St. Francis of Assisi, the Enchanted Balete Tree and the tranquil Guiwanon Spring Park and learnt all about the island’s magical healing traditions, local folklore and legends from the super friendly locals!

• Location: Central part of the country (Central Visayas region, southeast of Negros Island, south of Cebu)
• Best time to visit: Dry season (to enjoy beach activities and explore waterfalls).
• Activities on offer: Beach activities, waterfall exploration, snorkeling, and diving.
• Accommodation: Coco Grove Beach Resort, Salamangka Beach and Dive Resort, and beachside guesthouses.
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights… 

• Dipping my feet in the spring around the tree which had been developed into a natural fish spa – it was great just to sit on the stone bench and relaxed while the tiny fish nibbled at and gently exfoliated my skin!

6. Vigan

This was a beautiful UNESCO World Heritage city! I found well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture, a fine well-preserved cobblestone street, grand ancestral homes, and quaint antique shops. I was completely charmed by its nostalgic and romantic vibe and I felt transported to a bygone – and much more elegant – era! 

I discovered located on in Ilocos Sur province, on the western coast of Luzon. It is known for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture and is was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 and has a population around 53,000.

I took a direct bus from Manila to Vigan which took nine but it was worth it, I stayed for three days at the unique 4-star boutique Hotel Luna and discovered the meticulously preserved Spanish colonial architecture and heritage houses along the Calle Crisologo, shopped for local crafts at the lively Vigan Public Market, visited the charming Vigan Cathedral and learnt all about the local culture at the Syquia Mansion Museum.

I relaxed and swam at the nearby paradise-like Mindoro Beach and sampled the local cuisine at Café Leona. I skipped the traditional ‘kalesa’ ride though as I decided I don’t want to support animal tourism anymore!

• Location: North part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Dry season (for sightseeing in pleasant weather).
• Activities on offer: Sightseeing, exploring Spanish colonial architecture, and visiting heritage museums.
• Accommodation: Hotel Luna, Vigan Plaza Hotel, and heritage houses turned into boutique hotels.
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights…

• Trying a tangy but sweet Green Mango Shake at the Mango Magic Bar! 

7. Sangat Island

I thought this secluded tropical island was a gem! I thought it was like a paradise with its towering limestone cliffs, powdery white-sand beaches, sparkling turquoise waters, eco-friendly beachfront cabanas and dreamy overwater bungalows. I loved how peaceful, remote and rustic it felt and I really admired the eco-friendly focus it had too. 

I discovered it was located in the Calamian Islands in northern Palawan (part of the Coron Bay area). It’s a remote place with on permanent population and is an eco-tourism haven for divers and nature lovers. 

I took a 12 hour ferry journey from Manila and then I went on a 30-40 minute boat ride to Sangat Island and stayed for an idyllic three days at the Sangat Island Dive Resort. I relaxed on the unspoilt beaches, dived and snorkeled the beautiful coral gardens, and went wreck diving at the famous Okikawa Maru and Irako Maru in Coron Bay.

• Location: West part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Dry season (for ideal diving and beach weather).
• Activities on offer: Diving, snorkeling, and beach activities.
• Accommodation: Sangat Island Dive Resort and other eco-friendly beachfront resorts.
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights…

• Going wreck diving Okikawa Maru which was a Japanese oil tanker which was sunk during World War II in 1944 – it was a truly incredible experience to see the engine room, cargo holds, and the complex maze of pipes and machinery which were all teeming with marine life.

8. Banaue Rice Terraces

These were breathtaking ancient terraced fields! I thought the whole place was jaw-dropping with their immense scale and intricate engineering, the incredible sight of thousands of stepped rice paddies which followed the natural contours of the mountains, and the traditional Ifugao village houses.

Five of the Ifugao Rice Terraces – including Batad and Bangaan in Banaue – were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995 and I loved how exuded a serene and timeless vibe with a hint of mystery with its mist-covered mountains. 

I took an overnight bus from Manila to Banaue, which took nine hours but it was worth it! I stayed for an extraordinary three days in the rustic Batad Countryside Guest House and discovered the breathtaking Banaue Viewpoint and Batad Rice Terraces.

I also learnt about the area in the Banaue Museum and Tam-an Village, went on a very scenic one hour trek to Tappiya Falls, and chatted with the local indigenous Ifugao people who told me about their ancient rice farming traditions.

• Location: North part of the country (within the province of Ifugao, the Cordillera mountain range of northern Luzon)
• Best time to visit: Summer (for clear views of the terraces).
• Activities on offer: Hiking, sightseeing, and exploring indigenous culture.
• Accommodation: Banaue Hotel, Native Village Inn, and local homestays.
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights… 

• Meeting the local Ifugao people was such a special experience – I loved learning how they wove their own vibrant traditional clothing and hearing about their annual rituals, where they seek blessings to protect their crops and ensure a bountiful harvest!

9. Apo Island

I found this remote island was a eco-tourism haven! It was also a real beauty spot with volcanic rock formations and cliffs, sugar-white sandy beaches and ultra-clear waters, and traditional thatched-roof huts. I loved soaking up the slow-paced, rustic vibes and the isolated feel it had. 

I found the small volcanic island located in the Dauin municipality of Negros Oriental, around 7 kilometers off the southeastern tip of Negros Island. Part of the Visayas, a group of islands in the central Philippines, it only covers around 74 hectares (about 0.74 square kilometers) and has only around 1,000 residents but its known for being a marine sanctuary.

I flew to Dumaguete and took a 30 minute bus journey to Malatapay and took a guided boat trip the island which took 30 minutes and stayed at the rustic Mario’s Scuba Diving and Homestay.

I snorkeled with the super-cute sea turtles at Turtle Point, checked out the unspoilt beaches of Cogon and Kan-Uran, dived their famous coral reefs and hiked to their lighthouse – the views were incredible!

• Location: Central part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Dry season (for snorkeling and diving in clear waters).
• Activities on offer: Snorkeling, diving, and marine life viewing.
• Accommodation: Apo Island Beach Resort, Liberty’s Lodge, and dive resorts.
• Map Location and Directions

My favorite highlights… 

• Going to a local market which was known locally as a ‘tabo,’ where I saw traditional crafts being made using age-old techniques passed down through generations – I particularly enjoyed watching the weaving and pottery and then seeing the finished products for sale!

10. Chocolate Hills

I thought this unique geological spot was extraordinary! I discovered a surreal beauty spot with a rolling landscape of over a thousand cone-shaped mounds that turned golden brown in the dry season. I was fascinated by the area and really enjoyed how mysterious and awe-inspiring it felt there.

I found them located in the Bohol province in the Central Visayas region, in the towns of Batuan, Carmen, and Bilar.  I was in awe of the (around) 1,200 symmetrical mounds which I found out from my guide were formed millions of years ago through the erosion of limestone.

I took a ferry Cebu to Tagbilaran which took two hours and I spent three days exploring basing myself at the CASA AGUELO Chocolate Hills. I saw breathtaking views from the Chocolate Hills Complex viewing deck, went on a guided hike to the Man-made Forest in Bilar, and finally took a gorgeous river cruise along the scenic Loboc River.

• Location: Central part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Dry season (to see the hills in their greenest state).
• Activities on offer: Hiking, ATV rides, and viewing the landscape from observation points.
• Accommodation: Bohol Beach Club, The Peacock Garden, and resorts in nearby Panglao.
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights… 

• Going for a hike through the very photogenic Man-Made Forest which was a popular spot – uniformity of the trees and the symmetry of their planting had created a surreal but wonderful “tunnel” effect! 

11. Batan Island

This is the largest island in the Batanes province! I thought it was breathtaking with stunning dramatic landscapes made up of rolling hills, rugged cliffs, green tropical pastures, rugged volcanic rock formations along the coast, and pristine beaches. I loved how quiet and rustic it was – it felt like a really unspoilt retreat nature away from the hustle and bustle of city life! 

It took me 1.5 hours to arrive by air, flying from Manila(MNL) to Basco (BSO) and I spent four days at the beautiful Villa Ferrer.

I explored scenic viewpoints of the Marlboro Hills and Vayang Rolling Hills, striking Basco Lighthouse, discovered the ancient stone houses of the Ivantan and Mahato people, hung out at the cute Honesty Coffee Shop in Ivana, walked along the rugged and dramatic Valugan Boulder Beach and visited the quirky stone Tukon Chapel.

• Location: North part of the country (between Luzon and Taiwan, in the Luzon Strait)
• Best time to visit: Summer (for calm seas and pleasant sightseeing).
• Activities on offer: Hiking, sightseeing, visiting lighthouses, and exploring local culture.
• Accommodation: Fundacion Pacita, Tawsen’s Place Inn, and various homestays.
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights… 

• Hanging out at the laid back Honesty Coffee Shop in Ivana which had a real local and rustic feel to the place – I loved their home-made peanut cookies which were divine! 

12. Lake Pinatubo

This unique lake is nestled within the crater of the Mount Pinatubo volcano! I thought it was a surreal beauty spot, with deep turquoise waters which contrasted starkly with the rugged, ash-covered deep crater walls. It felt both serene and mystical. 

I discovered it nestled in the Zambales Mountains on Luzon Island, formed by the catastrophic eruption of Mount Pinatubo in 1991. This displaced thousands, leaving behind a sparse population mostly consisting of Aeta indigenous groups and the occasional tourist, like myself.

It was quite an adventure to get to Lake Pinatubo, I had to take a bus from Manila to Capas, which took three hours then it was a 1.5 hour thrill ride in a 4×4 followed by a trek. When finally at the lake, I wanted to jump in but swimming was prohibited sadly so I enjoyed an easy hike around the lake and took in the breathtaking views instead.

• Location: North part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Dry season (for hiking and exploring the crater lake).
• Activities on offer: Hiking, crater lake tours, and 4×4 off-road adventures.
• Accommodation: Budget guesthouses and hotels in Capas or Angeles City, like Microtel by Wyndham.
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights… 

• Seeing incredible volcanic landscapes on the trek to Lake Pinatubo – I passed through Crow Valley which had a moon-like terrain with vast ashfields and rocky rivers from the volcanic eruption.

13. Sagada

This small mountain town was a hidden gem! It had a unique and surreal kind of beauty with serene landscapes of ancient pine forests, tree-covered hills, quaint stone houses and its famous hanging coffins, which offered me (a spine-tingling) insight into the area’s interesting indigenous culture. I found it had a peaceful and mysterious vibe, with its mist-covered mountains and quiet, winding roads.

I discovered it nestled high in the Cordillera Central mountain range, in northern part of the country. It had deep ties to Spanish colonialism and the Igorot indigenous mountain folk and is now home to a population of around 11,000 people as well as the Luzon hornbill, the flame-breasted fruit dove, cloud rats and Philippine deer. 

I travelled on an 11 hour overnight Coda Lines Direct bus journey from Cubao and I spent three days at the Elven Villa of The Shire and it was a mix of adventure and just chilling! I witnessed a breathtaking sunrise at Kiltepan Viewpoint and went to see the ancient hanging coffins of Echo Valley which was a very surreal and spooky experience!

I also went on an awesome potholing adventure in Sumaguing and Lumiang Caves, hiked to Bomod-ok Falls, went wild swimming at Pongas Falls, finished up with some cliffside dining and Sagada Mountain Tea at the rustic Gaia Café.

• Location: North part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Summer (for clear skies and cool mountain weather).
• Activities on offer: Cave exploring, trekking, viewing hanging coffins, and sunrise watching at Kiltepan Peak.
• Accommodation: Sagada Heritage Village, Rock Inn and Café, and rustic homestays.
• Map Location and Directions

My highlights…

• Hearing about the traditions of the ancient hanging coffins from the locals – it was interesting to find out that the coffins are oriented with the head facing towards the rising sun as its associated with the direction of life and new beginnings.

14. Daraga

I was really charmed by this picturesque town! I found really breathtaking with incredible views of the striking Mayon Volcano, a mix of traditional Filipino and Spanish colonial architecture dotted through the tropical greenery, an impressive baroque-style building made from volcanic rock and an elevation of around 118 meters (387 feet) above sea level! It was great to just kick back and immerse myself in the chilled yet vibrant vibe of the place!

I found it located in the province of Albay in the Bicol Region, southeast of the capital Manila, just south of Legazpi City, and the regional center of Bicol.

I flew to Bicol International Airport and from there it was a short taxi ride to the town and I stayed for a very laid back two days at the Casa Bicolandia Suites.

I squeezed in seeing the famous Cagsawa Ruins, admired the Insta-worthy views of the Mayon Volcano and visited the Baroque Daraga Church. In the evening I explored local cafes and tried some Bicolano cuisine.

On my second day I kayaked on the very peaceful Sumlang Lake, discovered the intriguing WW2 Japanese Tunnel and went for an evening trek up the Quituinan Hills where I saw a stunning sunset.

• Location: Southeast part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Dry season (for unobstructed views of Mount Mayon).
• Activities on offer: Sightseeing, visiting churches, and enjoying views of Mount Mayon
• Accommodation: Casa Simeon, Lotus Blu Hotel, and budget hotels in nearby Legazpi City.
• Map Location and Directions

My highlights… 

• Dining on a Pako (Wild Fern Salad) and a Cream of Corn Soup with Malunggay leaves at the laid back restaurant Balay Cena Una.

15. Hinatuan Enchanted River

I thought this clear, spring-fed river was extraordinary! I discovered a striking spot where brilliant turquoise waters shimmered under the sun, surrounded by a thick tropical jungle and towering limestone cliffs.

There was also a peaceful riverside area which was dotted with a handful of rustic-looking huts. I loved the serene, mystical atmosphere that infused the whole place. 

I flew into Surigao City from Manila and from there it was a 4-hour drive to Hinatuan. Once here, I swam in its cool turquoise waters, explored the nearby Enchanted River Park, witnessed the awesome fish feeding ritual and then I finally hiked an hour to reach the atmospheric Santo Niño Cave.

• Location: Southeast part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Dry season (to see the river at its clearest).
• Activities on offer: Swimming, boating, and river exploration.
• Accommodation: Budget guesthouses and resorts in nearby San Francisco or Bislig City.
• Map Location and Directions

My favorite highlights… 

• Watching the incredible fish feeding ritual – it was accompanied by a bell ringing and the playing of the “Hymn of Hinatuan” which drew us visitors to watch as schools of fish gathered to hungrily gorge on the food pellets.

16. Intramuros

I was completely charmed by this historic walled district in Manila! I thought it was a really attractive place with its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, fine historic landmarks, iconic stone walls and nostalgic and charming vibe.

I found it located in the heart of Manila, bordered by the Pasig River, Roxas Boulevard and the Divisoria district. Founded in 1571, its the oldest district in the capital and once served as the seat of Spanish colonial government. 

From where I was staying in Manila at I’M Hotel I took LRT Line 1 (Light Rail Transit) and got off at the Central Terminal Station and spent an afternoon exploring.

I visited the former military prison and learnt all about Philippine history, admired the Spanish colonial architecture at San Agustin Church (which is an UNESCO World Heritage site), strolled through the elegant Plaza Roma and explored all the quaint cafes and shops in the area.

• Location: North part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Dry season (for comfortable walking tours and sightseeing).
• Activities on offer: Walking tours, sightseeing, exploring colonial buildings, and visiting museums.
• Accommodation: The Manila Hotel, Bayleaf Intramuros, and boutique hotels nearby.
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights… 

• Stumbling across the quaint shops, my favorites were the Silahis Arts & Artifacts which sold traditional wooden carvings, handwoven textiles and antique jewelry and Maranatha Handicrafts which sold beautifully crafted rosaries and inspirational books.

17. Mount Mayon

This was an incredible active stratovolcano! I thought it was stunning – it had a perfectly symmetrical cone shape which towered over the surrounding landscape, as well as its verdant green slopes and the charming nearby town of Legazpi. To me, it was utterly awe-inspiring and serene, like a breathtaking mix of nature’s beauty and raw power that I was captivated by!

I discovered it nestled in the province of Albay, right in the Bicol Region at the southern tip of Luzon Island. It’s near the city of Legazpi, which acts as the gateway to the volcano and its surrounding attractions. The volcano has a history of eruptions incredibly dating back to the 1600s.

I took an eight hour bus ride from Manila to Legazpi City and stayed for two days at the charming Ogma Suites. I saw incredible views from Cagsawa Ruins where I also explored the remains of an old church, hiked the Lignon Hill and incredible panoramic views of the surrounding area, took a scenic drive to the atmospheric Daraga Church which was located high on a hill and visited the eco-tourism focused Mayon Volcano.

• Location: Southeast part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Dry season (for clear views and hiking conditions).
• Activities on offer: Hiking, sightseeing, ATV tours, and photography.
• Accommodation: Misibis Bay, Mayon Backpackers Hostel, and hotels in Legazpi City.
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights… 

• Taking a really fun ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle) ride around the base of the volcano and getting up close to the lava walls, ash fields, and lava rocks.

18. Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park

I thought this place was a gem! I thought this sanctuary for ocean wildlife was stunning with vibrant, untouched coral reefs, incredible marine life, and clear blue waters. I was absolutely captivated by how serene and otherworldly it felt – I was immersed in a tranquil, mystical underwater realm! 

I found it was located in the Sulu Sea, around 150 kilometers southeast of Puerto Princesa, Palawan, and I also found it was accessible only by live-aboard dive boats due to its remote location in the middle of the ocean.

It was a UNESCO World Heritage Site established in 1988 and is protected for conservation and research purposes. It’s home to over 600 species of fish, 300 species of coral, and marine creatures such as sharks, manta rays, sea turtles, and different species of dolphins and whales.

I went there on a week long live-aboard dive boat trip, which operated seasonal trips from Puerto Princesa. Once there, I dived the incredible Tubbataha and South Atoll which was filled with amazing coral gardens and a huge amount of marine life including sharks, manta rays, and sea turtles.

• Location: Southwest part of the country.
• Best time to visit: March to June (for the best diving conditions).
• Activities on offer: Diving, marine life viewing, and underwater photography.
• Accommodation: Liveaboard dive boats like MV Discovery Palawan, as no land-based accommodations are available.
• Map Location and Directions

My highlights… 

• Seeing the walls at Tubbataha plunge sharply into the depths which created dramatic underwater landscapes teeming with vibrant marine life!

19. Davao City

This city enjoyed a really superb location! I thought it was a bustling gem of a place with a mix traditional Filipino and Spanish colonial buildings, but it’s surroundings were just divine with lashings of greenery, the majestic Mount Apo and the serene Samal Island beaches.

I found it had a vibrant and progressive vibe, combining urban modernity with plenty of attractive lush green spaces. 

I found it tucked away in the southeastern part of Mindanao, which also happens to be the second-largest island in the country. It serves as the regional center of Davao Region (Region XI) and is situated on the Davao Gulf, opposite the island of Samal. 

I flew into Francisco Bangoy International Airport (also known as Davao International Airport) and stayed for an awesome four days at the charming Dusit Thani Residence Davao. I hiked the peak of Mount Apo, enjoyed the dreamy white sand beaches of Samal Island, sampled exotic fruits (the durian and pomelo were my favorites!) at the Bankerohan Market and dining on local cuisine in the fantastic restaurants.

• Location: Southeast part of the country.
• Best time to visit: Dry season (for outdoor activities and city exploration).
• Activities on offer: Hiking, sightseeing, visiting parks, and wildlife encounters.
• Accommodation: Marco Polo Davao, Waterfront Insular Hotel, and budget city hotels.
• Map Location and Directions

My highlights… 

• Trying out the local cuisine at the traditional Filipino restaurant Jack’s Ridge – I opted for a Pinakbet which was a hearty traditional vegetable stew which was packed with bitter melon, eggplant, tomato, okra, string beans, ginger and chili peppers!