Where to go in the Philippines: The five best hidden gems to explore
The Philippines attracts many visitors each year for its pristine beaches and rich natural scenery.
If you want to experience the Philippines while feeling secluded from the rest of the world - and other travellers - there are several island destinations where the journey there is part of the fun.
Here are some of the Philippines' top off-the-beaten path island spots to explore.
1. Jomalig Island (Quezon Province)
With a friendly local community at its heart, Jomalig Island is known for its golden beaches, sandbars, and turquoise waters.
For an authentic island experience in the Philippines, visit Jomalig Island for its delicious freshly caught seafood prepared by locals, beach huts and family run homestays with great hospitality.
Other highlights of a visit to Jomalig Island include exploring the sandbars and hidden coves, such as Kanaway Sandbar.
You can also camp under the stars amongst the lush tropical foliage on the shoreline.
2. Sibang Cove (Calayan Island)
Tucked away on Calayan Island, Sibang Cove is a paradise.
Part of the remote Babuyan Group of Islands, the cove is known for its powdery white sand and dramatic limestone cliffs.
You'll enjoy a hike from Calayan Town Proper through Calayan Island's rolling hills to reach Sibang Cove before being rewarded with one of the Philippines' best snorkelling spots.
Sibang Cove boasts clear waters teeming with marine life, including colourful tropical fish and turtles.
Camping and stargazing are also popular attractions at Sibang Cove for visitors seeking an overnight remote experience before taking a trek or boat ride back to Calayan Town.
3. Panampangan Island (Tawi-Tawi)
Panampangan Island is a highly remote tropical location stretching just three kilometres long.
Here, you can swimming, snorkelling, and a beach picnic featuring freshly caught seafood grilled in front of you on the beach.
To visit, begin at Bongao, the capital of Tawi-Tawi, and take a two-hour boat ride passing many smaller islands and the colourful Sama-Bajau (sea gypsy) villages.
Stay around for the evening sunset to watch shades of orange and pink reflected against the water.
A highlight of Panampangan Island is the rare opportunity to explore the entire island's natural beauty on foot as it's so small.
The island is easy to circumnavigate in under 20 minutes, offering multiple scenic spots and beaches along the way.
4. Canigao Island (Leyte)
Beginning with a short 15-minute boat ride from Matalom in Leyte, you'll land on the tiny uninhabited island of Canigao Island.
Here, you can experience a laidback Filipino way of life.
The beaches are made of fine white sand, perfect for games like beach volleyball.
Or visitors can go scuba diving to enjoy the island's vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.
5. Balut Island (Davao Occidental)
Getting to Balut Island is all part of the adventure, starting with a four to six hour boat ride from General Santos City which passes numerous small islands and fishing villages along the way.
Balut Island is a volcanic paradise offering a host of unique experiences beyond its pristine beaches for travellers willing to take the journey.
