Anyone who has been to the Philippines will know that it is a very beautiful country with some fantastic beaches, each of which is worth spending at least an entire day at. However, given that the Philippines is made up of 7,107 islands in total, seeing everything in a vacation or two is not exactly possible! In order to help the hapless traveler, we have compiled this list of the four best beach destinations in the entire country and its 2,000 inhabited islands. As you can probably imagine, a lot of your favorites may not make it onto this list. It’s only an attempt to guide the first time traveler into seeing some of the country’s most amazing beaches.
The Pink Beaches of Santa Cruz and Sila
We are starting this list off with two beaches instead of just one; the astonishing pink beaches of Zamboanga City on Santa Cruz Island and San Vicente on the Sila Island. If you only have the time to visit one pink beach and you had to choose between the two, we would suggest that you go to the one in Zamboanga City, Mindanao, because the sand is a lot more pink here than in San Vicente. It’s also a nice little peaceful place that, despite its popularity, has managed to retain its simplicity. San Vicente in Samar on the other hand is often referred to as one of the most impressive beaches in the whole of the Philippines. The famous Pink Sand Resort is ideal for those who want to spend a day or two here, and there are multiple restaurant options for those who want to enjoy every local delicacy.
Boracay, Aklan
You will have to travel a whopping 315 km to the south of Manila to reach Aklan, but it’s a trip worth taking. The sands of the White Beach are as white as it gets in the Philippines and it lies in beautiful contrast with the clear blue sea water. The island is so popular and well equipped to handle travelers and tourists that you basically have the luxury of everything. Consider the following to get an idea of what we are talking about here:
- From budget options to five-star resorts, the island has over 350 accommodation options
- There’s the option to snorkel, scuba dive, helmet dive and enjoy various other water sports
- There’s an active nightlife with bars, pubs and lounges abound
- The beaches are well maintained and allow for relaxing sunbathing
El Nido, Palawan
If you prefer natural splendor over manmade luxuries, you will find Palawan to be the best beach in the Philippines. In fact, El Nido is ranked often as one of the most beautiful beaches in the whole world! In a review by Travel + Leisure last year, the international travel magazine certified the entire island of Palawan to be the best island in the whole wide world and that’s saying something! If you are wondering what the fuss is all about, check out the following:
- There are about 50 beaches with powdery white sand
- Three major marine habitats and five different types of vegetation are home to rare and exotic birds like the swiftlets
- Protected species of corals, dolphins, beautiful fish and dugongs can be found here
- There are one of a kind Limestone cliffs and gorgeous lagoons
- It’s ideal for those who love swimming, scuba diving, snorkeling, hiking and eating bird’s nest soup!
Samal Island, Davao City
In the Garden City of Samal, you will find both white sand and pink sand beaches, surrounded by the crystal clear blue waters and multiple coral reefs which give some of the beaches over here their unique pink coloration. Samal Island is a must visit if you are looking for the perfect blend of in-between development and natural beauty at the same time. There are about 70 resorts here, which range from being very expensive to downright cheap, so accommodation won’t be a problem. Even then, pre-booking is advised if you are planning to visit the island during the high season.
Whether you live in the Philippines or you are traveling here for a nice little vacation, you will fall in love with all of these beaches as soon as you see them in person. So, pack some sunscreen and make sure you have packed your plus size bathing suits and/or swim trunks because you will be spending a lot of time on these beautiful islands, not only enjoying the beaches but the delicious food as well!
