Philippines Beach Destinations 🥂⛱️✧🌴🌊 Pros and Cons
When it comes to tropical paradises, the Philippines stands out as a top contender. With over 7,000 islands and a coastline stretching for more than 36,000 kilometers, this archipelago is a haven for beach lovers.
However, choosing the perfect beach destination in the Philippines can be a daunting task. In this article, we take you on a journey to explore some of the best beach destinations this beautiful country has to offer. But, as with any travel decision, there are pros and cons to consider.
If getting a suntan is high on the priority list, then unless you want to remain one of fifty shades of pink you need to choose your beach destinations carefully.
Boracay: The White Sand Paradise
Boracay, known for its pristine white sand beaches, is a dream destination for those seeking relaxation and water sports. Here are the reasons to visit Boracay:
- Powdery White Sand: Boracay boasts some of the softest and whitest sand you’ll ever step foot on. It’s perfect for sunbathing and building sandcastles.
- Vibrant Nightlife: After a day of beach fun, Boracay comes alive at night with its lively bars, restaurants, and entertainment options.
- Water Sports Galore: Whether you’re into windsurfing, kiteboarding, or scuba diving, Boracay offers a plethora of water activities for thrill-seekers.
However, you will also have to deal with:
- Crowds: Boracay’s popularity means it can get crowded, especially during peak seasons. If you prefer secluded beaches, you might find it overwhelming.
- Over Commercialization: Some visitors lament the commercialization of Boracay, with a bustling tourist scene and an abundance of hotels and resorts.
50 Shades of Pink
Palawan: The Untouched Beauty
Palawan, often referred to as the “Last Frontier,” is a tropical paradise with stunning landscapes and crystal-clear waters. Here’s why you should consider Palawan:
- Unspoiled Nature: Palawan’s remote locations, like El Nido and Coron, offer pristine beaches and dramatic limestone cliffs that seem untouched by time.
- Island-Hopping Adventures: Palawan is the ultimate destination for island-hopping, where you can explore hidden lagoons, snorkel in vibrant coral reefs, and relax on deserted beaches.
- Underground River: The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit, allowing you to explore an underground river system.
On the flipside:
- Limited Infrastructure: While Palawan’s untouched beauty is a pro, it can also be a con. Some areas lack modern infrastructure, which might not appeal to travelers seeking luxury amenities.
- Remote Accessibility: Getting to certain parts of Palawan can be challenging, involving long boat rides or small aircraft. This may not be suitable for travelers with limited time.
Siargao: The Surfer’s Paradise
Siargao, often referred to as the “Surfing Capital of the Philippines,” is famous for its epic waves and laid-back vibe. Here’s why surf enthusiasts should consider Siargao:
- Epic Surfing: Siargao is home to the famous Cloud 9 surf break, attracting surfers from around the world. Whether you’re a pro or a beginner, there are waves for everyone.
- Island Hopping: Apart from surfing, Siargao offers beautiful lagoons, caves, and pristine beaches perfect for island hopping and exploring.
- Charming Atmosphere: Siargao has managed to maintain its laid-back, small-town charm, making it a great place to relax and unwind.
If you’re not a surfer, your priorities may differ:
- Limited Activities: While Siargao is a surfer’s paradise, it may not offer as many diverse activities as other destinations for travelers with varied interests.
- Weather-Dependent: The best surfing conditions in Siargao are weather-dependent, so it’s essential to plan your visit during the right season for consistent waves.
Cebu: The Gateway to Adventure
Cebu is a bustling province that offers a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. Here are the pros of exploring Cebu:
- Historical and Cultural Sites: Cebu City boasts historical sites like Magellan’s Cross and Fort San Pedro, offering a glimpse into the Philippines’ rich history.
- Stunning Beaches: From the powdery sands of Mactan Island to the idyllic Bantayan Island, Cebu offers a variety of beach experiences.
- Water Activities: Cebu is a hotspot for snorkeling and diving, with vibrant marine life and coral reefs to explore.
There are a number of drawbacks, however:
- Traffic Congestion: Cebu City can suffer from heavy traffic, which may affect your travel plans and the time it takes to get to attractions.
- Commercial Areas: Some parts of Cebu, particularly Mactan Island, can feel commercialized, with numerous resorts and crowds during peak seasons.
Our trip around the Central Visayas – Cebu and Bohol – presented us with several unexpected challenges, one of these being able to find a beautiful location to soak up the sun. Many of the places we visited called themselves ‘beach resorts’, but the term is used pretty loosely. This often translates to sand-less, rocky and sometimes difficult access to the sea.
Pangangan
Of the resorts and beaches we visited in Pangangan:
- 2 were just rocks: Both the T-breeze and Isla Hayahay resorts offered some snorkeling but little decent swimming.
- A few were shabby yellow sand beaches, like the Java Beach Resort.
The problem with the shabby beaches (apart from not being very pretty) is that they accumulate a lot of flotsam and jetsam, which can harbour millions of very unpleasant sandflies. The weather too can be rapidly changeable, notably in the afternoons when it often clouds over with odd showers and occasionally torrential rain.
Not great … if you’ve finally managed to find a beach to lie on.
Depending on the time of day, you may then have to negotiate your way across a dozen meters of sharp stones and shale before you actually reach water. You may then have another 50 meters to walk before its deep enough to swim.
Protective swimming shoes are therefore highly advised.
Philippines Best Beach Destinations? – Sunset in Pangangan
Bicol: The Hidden Gem
Bicol, a region in the southeastern Philippines, is an off-the-beaten-path destination known for its natural wonders. Here’s why Bicol should be on your radar:
- Mayon Volcano: The perfectly cone-shaped Mayon Volcano is a breathtaking sight and a hiking challenge for adventure seekers.
- Whale Shark Interaction: Donsol in Bicol is famous for its whale shark interactions, offering a unique opportunity to swim with these gentle giants.
- Underrated Beaches: Bicol has several underrated beaches like Caramoan and Calaguas, which are less crowded and offer a more secluded experience.
… and these are the reasons you might want to pass:
- Limited Tourism Infrastructure: Bicol is not as developed for tourism as other regions, so expect fewer amenities and services.
- Weather Considerations: Bicol is prone to typhoons, so it’s essential to plan your visit during the right season to avoid weather-related disruptions.
Bohol: Where Nature Meets Relaxation
Bohol, nestled in the heart of the Philippines, is renowned for its stunning beaches that offer both pros and cons for travelers seeking a tropical paradise.
- Powdery White Sands: The pros are undeniable: Bohol’s beaches, like Alona Beach and Dumaluan Beach, feature powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters, making them perfect for sunbathing and snorkeling.
- Culture and Ecology: Additionally, the unique attraction of Bohol’s beaches lies in their proximity to other natural wonders, such as the Chocolate Hills and the Tarsier Sanctuary, allowing travelers to combine beach relaxation with cultural and ecological exploration.
On the downside:
- Crowded Atmosphere: Bohol’s increasing popularity has led to more visitors in recent years, resulting in a slightly crowded atmosphere during peak seasons, which might be a downside for those seeking a quieter escape.
- Basic Amenities: Some areas may lack the extensive infrastructure and luxury amenities found in more developed beach destinations.
Bohol’s beaches offer a blend of natural beauty and adventure, making them a top choice for travelers. While the crowds and limited amenities can be considered cons, they are easily outweighed by the sheer beauty and accessibility to unique attractions that Bohol’s beaches provide, making it a fantastic destination for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
We were particularly impressed with the good quality well-maintained white sand beaches at Dumaluan, Alona, and Panglao Nature Resort.
All your hotel options around Alona Beach
Summing Up
Philippines’ beach destinations offer a diverse range of experiences, from powdery white sand beaches to remote and untouched paradises. Each destination has its pros and cons, and the choice ultimately depends on your preferences and priorities. Whether you’re a surfer seeking epic waves in Siargao, a nature enthusiast yearning for Palawan’s untouched beauty, or a beach bum looking for the vibrant atmosphere of Boracay, the Philippines has a beach destination for you.
Remember that no matter which destination you choose, the Philippines’ warm hospitality, delicious cuisine, and stunning natural beauty will leave you with unforgettable memories. So, pack your bags, embark on your adventure, and let the Philippines’ best beach destinations take your breath away.
Cheap flights from Manila to Bohol
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