The best places to visit in the Philippines for every traveller
Once an under-the-radar destination beloved by backpackers and intrepid travellers, the Philippines has emerged as a new favourite spot for Aussies seeking a beach holiday.
Often celebrated as being a cleaner and more laid-back alternative to Bali, the Southeast Asian nation ticks all the boxes: budget-friendly, close to home, stunning natural beauty, and year-round good weather.
But with over 7000 islands making up the Philippines, it's hard to know where to start.
READ MORE: Aussie city beats out world capitals in global 'arts and culture' ranking
Kayaking and island-hopping in El Nido is a must-do. Getty
So what's the best place to visit in the Philippines? It depends.
Whether you want to relax on a beachside sunlounger or tackle canyoning and shipwreck diving, there's a place for you in the Philippines.
Here's our breakdown of the main spots to have on your radar, for an informed decision.
El Nido and Coron (Palawan)
This is the best place to visit in the Philippines for first-timers. Expect the postcard-perfect views you've seen online, with sparkling turquoise water, towering limestone cliffs, secluded palm-fringed beaches, and hidden lagoons.
READ MORE: Popular tourist destinations you can skip for these places instead
El Nido is quintesentially 'Philippines'. Getty
Your must-do activity is to go island hopping in Bacuit Bay, spending the day on an outrigger boat, soaking up the natural beauty.
El Nido is more social with a bustling town vibe, while Coron is popular especially with divers who want to get up close to the WWII-era sunken ships.
Boracay is super easy to get around. Getty
Boracay
Great for beach resorts and families that want convenience.
Expect a highly organised, clean, and pedestrian-friendly island. It's divided into "Stations": Station 1 for high-end resorts, Station 2 for shopping/dining, and Station 3 for a quieter, budget vibe.
Don't miss the famous White Beach, with four kilometres of the softest sand you've ever felt. From Boracay, you can also catch a sunset paraw (traditional sailboat) ride which comes highly recommended.
READ MORE: 'Our friends suggested Bali or Thailand - we went to Boracay on our family holiday instead'
Aussies can fly direct to Cebu. Getty
Cebu and Bohol
These two islands are right next to each other and offer a ton of activities, especially perfect if you need to keep kids entertained.
Cebu has an international airport (with direct flights from Australia), and massive resorts with kids clubs – it's often many people's introduction to the Philippines.
Nearby Bohol is a two-hour ferry away, with lots of nature-based adventures that aren't too strenuous.
READ MORE: Aussie airline announces overhaul of airport check in process
Siargao is a laid-back island popular with surfers. Getty
Siargao
Calling all adventurers! Siargao is the surfing capital of the country, and the "coolest" island right now, filled with digital nomads, surfers, and health-conscious cafes.
It's more rugged; most travellers rent a scooter to get around. Don't miss the Magpupungko Rock Pools at low tide or the Sugba Lagoon for paddleboarding.
Manila has a rich history. Getty Images/iStockphoto
Manila
The capital is often skipped over as people head to the beaches, but if you enjoy a big city with a rich history, Manila is absolutely worth two to three days of your itinerary.
Old Manila should be your priority. Take a Bamboo Bike tour in the ancient walled city to see the ruins and hidden courtyards, then head to Binondo, the world's oldest Chinatown. It is a sensory overload of red lanterns and incredible street food.
Stay in Makati if it's your first time. It's walkable, safe, and has the best malls and nightlife.
The Philippines has something for everyone. Getty
Where should I go for the first time in the Philippines?
Cebu is an easy choice for first-timers – direct flights from Australia take you right there in about seven hours.
There are plenty of resorts, hotels, and guesthouses to choose from depending on your budget. Heaps of activities are also on offer, but it's also a beautiful place for a 'flop-and-drop' holiday.
Other options for first-timers include Palawan for iconic limestone cliffs and lagoons, or Boracay for world-class white sand beaches.
Best places to visit in Philippines with family
Young families gravitate toward the ease of Cebu, with direct flights and giant resorts that have kids clubs.
Boracay is another great option, with the best infrastructure making it easy to get around.
The Philippines is ideal for a family holiday. Getty
Best places to visit in Philippines for couples
El Nido is a lovely spot for a romantic getaway. It's known for lagoons, private beaches, and upscale resorts where you can soak up the luxury.
For something more adventurous, Coron has snorkelling and boat tours through crystal-clear waters and limestone karsts.
Philippines travel requirements
Visa-free entry is available for all Aussie travellers who are staying for less than 30 days.
All you need is a passport with at least six months' expiry and proof of your return or onward ticket out of the country.
Most viewed in International
‘Do not come here’: Travellers told to stay away after hurricane
The little-known Southeast Asian paradise set to take off in 2027
‘Startling sight’: Iconic tourist attraction looks a little different right now
‘This is a significant change’: Thailand halves visa-free travel for 60 countries, including Australia
