The Philippines, an archipelago of over 7,600 islands, boasts some of the world’s most breathtaking beaches. From powdery white sands to secret lagoons, each beach offers a unique blend of serenity, adventure, and tropical charm.Â
Whether you seek lively beach parties or tranquil hidden spots, the Philippines has the perfect paradise. Let’s explore the 12 best beaches in the Philippines that will steal your heart.
- 1. White Beach, Boracay
- 2. Nacpan Beach, El Nido
- 3. Alona Beach, Bohol
- 4. Saud Beach, Pagudpud
- 5. Pink Beach, Zamboanga
- 6. Bantayan Island Beach, Cebu
- 7. Malapascua Island, Cebu
- 8. Siargao Island
- 9. Pagudpod Beach, Ilocos Norte
- 10. Dahican Beach, Davao Oriental
- 11. Calaguas Islands, Camarines Norte
- 12. La Union Beach, Luzon
- FAQs
1. White Beach, Boracay
One of the world’s most iconic beaches, White Beach in Boracay, is known for its powdery white sand and vibrant energy. Divided into three Stations (Station 1, 2, and 3), each offers a different vibe — from luxury beach resorts in Philippines and lively bars to peaceful corners perfect for sunsets.
- Google Rating: 4.7 stars
- Highlights: Iconic sunsets, powder-soft sand, lively nightlife
- Location: Boracay Island, Aklan Province
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Entry Fee: Environmental fee (PHP 300 for tourists)
- Ideal For: Honeymooners, families, party lovers
- Activities: Swimming, sailing (Paraw), sunset cruises, beach parties
- Nearby Attractions:Willy’s Rock, D’Mall Shopping Center
- Nearby Places to Eat: Jonah’s Fruit Shakes, The Sunny Side Café
- Nearby Hotels:Shangri-La Boracay, Henann Prime Beach Resort
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2. Nacpan Beach, El Nido
Nacpan Beach is a 4-kilometer untouched beauty north of El Nido town. Famed for its raw charm, soft golden sand, and swaying coconut trees, it offers a peaceful escape compared to El Nido’s busy island tours. The gentle waves make it great for swimming and relaxing.
- Google Rating: 4.6 stars
- Highlights: Raw beauty, less crowded, peaceful swimming spots
- Location:El Nido, Palawan
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Environmental fee (PHP 50)
- Ideal For: Nature lovers, solo travelers, couples
- Activities: Swimming, sunbathing, motorbike rides
- Nearby Attractions:Twin Beach(Nacpan and Calitang Beach)
- Nearby Places to Eat:Sunmai Sunset Restaurant, Mad Monkey Nacpan
- Nearby Hotels:Nacpan Beach Glamping, ANGKLA Beach Club & Boutique Resort
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3. Alona Beach, Bohol
Alona Beach on Panglao Island offers soft white sand paired with vibrant beachside resorts, diving shops, and restaurants. It’s the jump-off point for diving trips to Balicasag Island and dolphin watching tours. Perfect for beachgoers who like a lively but not too overwhelming vibe.
- Google Rating: 4.4 stars
- Highlights: Diving, dolphin watching, lively beachfront
- Location: Panglao Island, Bohol
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Entry Fee: None
- Ideal For: Divers, families, casual beach lovers
- Activities: Snorkeling, scuba diving, and island hopping
- Nearby Attractions:Balicasag Island, Hinagdanan Cave
- Nearby Places to Eat:Buzzz Café, Saffron Restaurant
- Nearby Hotels:Henann Resort Alona Beach, Amorita Resort
4. Saud Beach, Pagudpud
Often called the Boracay of the North, Saud Beach offers powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters minus the crowds. It’s a quiet paradise with gentle waves perfect for swimming and sunset strolls, surrounded by a backdrop of coconut trees.
- Google Rating: 4.6 stars
- Highlights: Secluded beauty, clean and peaceful environment
- Location:Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Entry Fee: None
- Ideal For: Peace-seekers, families, honeymooners
- Activities: Swimming, beach picnics, sunset watching
- Nearby Attractions:Bangui Windmills, Kapurpurawan Rock Formation
- Nearby Places to Eat:BergBlick Restaurant, Emohruo Beach Restobar
- Nearby Hotels:Saud Beach Resort, Kingfisher Resort
5. Pink Beach, Zamboanga
Pink Beach in Zamboanga is an absolute gem, one of the famous beaches in Philippines, known for its soft pinkish-hued sand, which gets its unique color from crushed red corals. This peaceful and less crowded beach offers clear waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing in a serene environment.
- Google Rating: 4.7 stars
- Highlights: Unique pink sand, calm waters, tranquil vibe
- Location: Santa Cruz Island, Zamboanga City
- Timings: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Environmental fee (PHP 200)
- Ideal For: Couples, nature enthusiasts, photographers
- Activities: Snorkeling, swimming, picnics
- Nearby Attractions:Great Santa Cruz Island, Zamboanga City landmarks
- Nearby Places to Eat:The Coffee Shop, Don Berto’s
- Nearby Hotels:Grand Astoria Hotel, Lantaka Hotel
6. Bantayan Island Beach, Cebu
Bantayan Island offers an unspoiled slice of paradise with its white sandy beaches, clear blue waters, and relaxed atmosphere. Unlike other popular spots in Cebu, this island gives off a laid-back vibe, making it perfect for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle.
- Google Rating: 4.5 stars
- Highlights: Uncrowded beaches, serene environment, friendly locals
- Location: Bantayan Island, Cebu
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Entry Fee: None
- Ideal For: Families, solo travelers, couples
- Activities: Beach walks, swimming, fishing
- Nearby Attractions:Ogtong Cave, Kota Park
- Nearby Places to Eat:Ojos Locos, Mangrove Restaurant
- Nearby Hotels:Anika Island Resort, Bantayan Island Nature Park and Resort
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7. Malapascua Island, Cebu
Famed for its incredible diving spots, Malapascua Island is a small but stunning beach destination. This island is best known for the chance to see thresher sharks, making it a diver’s haven. Beyond diving, its wide sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and beautiful coral reefs are perfect for all kinds of beach activities.
- Google Rating: 4.7 stars
- Highlights: Thresher shark dives, quiet beaches, great snorkeling
- Location:Malapascua Island, Cebu
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Entry Fee: None
- Ideal For: Divers, adventure seekers, nature lovers
- Activities: Scuba diving, snorkeling, beach picnics
- Nearby Attractions: Monad Shoal, Lighthouse
- Nearby Places to Eat: The French Beach Resort, Ging-Ging’s
- Nearby Hotels:Malapascua Exotic Island Dive Resort, Ocean Vida Beach and Dive Resort
8. Siargao Island
Siargao is a tropical paradise for surfing enthusiasts. Known for its crystal-clear lagoons, dense palm tree groves, and the world-famous Cloud 9 surf break, Siargao is becoming one of the hottest spots in the Philippines. It’s ideal for adventure, nature walks, and of course, surfing.
- Google Rating: 4.8 stars
- Highlights: Cloud 9, lagoons, world-class surfing
- Location: Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Entry Fee: None
- Ideal For: Surfers, adventurers, nature lovers
- Activities: Surfing, island hopping, motorbiking
- Nearby Attractions:Sugba Lagoon, Magpupungko Rock Pools
- Nearby Places to Eat:Kermit Siargao, Shaka Siargao
- Nearby Hotels: Siargao Bleu Resort, The Surfing Carabao Resort
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9. Pagudpod Beach, Ilocos Norte
Known for its long stretches of powdery white sand, Pagudpud is a remote haven for those seeking peace and tranquility. Located in Ilocos Norte, the beach offers clear blue waters perfect for swimming, making it ideal for those looking to escape the busy tourist areas.
- Google Rating: 4.6 stars
- Highlights: Secluded, pristine beaches, clear waters
- Location: Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Entry Fee: None
- Ideal For: Couples, solo travelers, nature lovers
- Activities: Swimming, hiking, beach picnics
- Nearby Attractions: Patapat Viaduct, Kabigan Falls
- Nearby Places to Eat: Pagudpud Grill, Blue Lagoon Restaurant
- Nearby Hotels:Kingfisher Resort, Casa Consuelo Resort
10. Dahican Beach, Davao Oriental
Dahican Beach is a hidden gem in the southern part of the Philippines. With its powder-soft sand, crystal-clear waters, and beautiful blue-green waves, it’s perfect for surfers and beach lovers looking for a less commercialized destination. The surrounding forest adds a touch of wilderness to the beach’s already serene atmosphere.
- Google Rating: 4.7 stars
- Highlights: Perfect for surfing, peaceful ambiance, untouched surroundings
- Location: Mati, Davao Oriental
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Entry Fee: None
- Ideal For: Surfers, nature lovers, adventure seekers
- Activities: Surfing, kite surfing, picnics
- Nearby Attractions:Sleeping Dinosaur, Tawan-Tawan Hill
- Nearby Places to Eat: Dahican Surf Spot Café, The Beach House
- Nearby Hotels: The Blue Beach Resort, Dahican Surf Resort
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11. Calaguas Islands, Camarines Norte
The Calaguas Islands are an idyllic, unspoiled retreat known for their pristine white sand beaches and clear turquoise waters. With minimal development, the islands are perfect for camping, swimming, and enjoying nature without the distractions of busy tourist hotspots.
- Google Rating: 4.5 stars
- Highlights: Untouched beaches, clear waters, peaceful environment
- Location:Calaguas Islands, Camarines Norte
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Entry Fee: None
- Ideal For: Adventurers, nature lovers, camping enthusiasts
- Activities: Swimming, island hopping, camping
- Nearby Attractions:Tinaga Island, Mahabang Buhangin Beach
12. La Union Beach, Luzon
La Union has long been a popular destination for surfing enthusiasts, known for its laid-back charm and growing beach culture. It’s also a top pick for those who want to explore beach life in the northern part of Luzon, with stunning sunset views and a thriving surf community.
- Google Rating: 4.4 stars
- Highlights: Surfing, vibrant sunset views, cozy atmosphere
- Location:San Juan, La Union
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Entry Fee: None
- Ideal For: Surfers, solo travelers, beach lovers
- Activities: Surfing, swimming, sunset watching
- Nearby Attractions:Tangadan Falls, Pindangan Ruins
- Nearby Places to Eat:El Union Coffee, The Beach House
- Nearby Hotels:San Juan Surf Resort, The Great Northwest
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FAQs
What is the best time to visit the Philippines’ beaches?
The best time to visit is from December to May, during the dry season. The weather is sunny, the sea is calm, and conditions are ideal for swimming, island-hopping, and snorkeling. Rainfall is minimal, offering perfect clear skies and warm beach days.
Which beach in the Philippines has the clearest water?
Malcapuya Island in Coron and Nacpan Beach in El Nido are known for their crystal-clear waters. These beaches are ideal for snorkeling and diving, offering incredible underwater visibility, pristine sands, and beautiful marine life.
Are the Philippines’ beaches safe for swimming?
Most beaches are safe for swimming, but it’s smart to check local advisories. Some areas may experience strong currents, especially during the typhoon season. Popular beaches often have lifeguards and safety flags to ensure visitor protection.
What are the best beaches to visit in Philippines for a quiet retreat?
Calaguas Islands, Dahican Beach, and Paliton Beach offer serene, uncrowded settings. These beaches have soft white sand, calm waters, and stunning natural backdrops, perfect for travelers seeking peace away from the crowds.
Are there water sports available on Philippine beaches?
Yes, many beaches offer water sports like kayaking, kite surfing, diving, and jet skiing. Boracay, Siargao, and Panglao are top spots for water activities, with rental services and guided tours available for all experience levels.
Which beach is best for families with kids?
Alona Beach (Bohol) and White Beach (Boracay) are perfect for families. They have gentle waves, soft sand, and safe swimming areas for kids. Nearby restaurants and family-friendly resorts make vacationing easy and comfortable.
Can I find luxury resorts on the Philippines’ beaches?
Yes, the Philippines has many luxury beach resorts. Amanpulo on Pamalican Island and Shangri-La’s Boracay Resort offer private beaches in Philippines, spa treatments, and fine dining, blending five-star service with breathtaking natural beauty.
Do beaches in Philippines have bioluminescent waters?
Yes, beaches in Philippines, like those in Palawan and Siargao, experience bioluminescence. On dark, moonless nights, tiny organisms light up the water, creating a magical glow perfect for a nighttime swim or boat tour.
