Unique Islands in Philippines

The Philippine archipelago spans more than 7,600 islands, creating a tropical paradise where pristine beaches, volcanic cites, and vibrant coral reefs await exploration. From world-famous white sand shores to remote island sanctuaries, the islands in Philippines offer extraordinary biodiversity both above and below the water.

This guide navigates through the 12 most remarkable Philippines islands for tourists, providing essential details to help craft your perfect island-hopping itinerary across this seafaring nation.

1. Palawan

Palawan stretches like an emerald sword between the South China and Sulu Seas, consistently earning recognition as one of the world’s most beautiful islands. This ecological frontier harbors dramatic limestone karsts, hidden lagoons, and the UNESCO-listed Puerto Princesa Underground River flowing beneath mountains directly into the sea.

Home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Palawan balances tourism with conservation across its 1,780 islands and islets. The province encompasses both the Tubbataha Reefs Marine Park and the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park.

Weather: 77-90°F (25-32°C) year-round with distinct dry (November-May) and wet seasons

Location:Palawan, Philippines

Timings: Year-round (Underground River: 8 AM – 3 PM, requires permit)

Entry Fee: Free (Puerto Princesa Underground River: ₱500 + boat fee)

What to do:

• Explore the Puerto Princesa Underground River, one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature with an 8.2 km navigable river flowing through spectacular cave formations.
• Take an island hopping tour in El Nido’s Bacuit Bay to visit the Big and Small Lagoons with kayaking through limestone cliffs and hidden beaches.
• Dive at Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, a remote UNESCO site with coral gardens and marine life.
• Discover Port Barton, a tranquil alternative with uncrowded white sand beaches.

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2. Boracay

Boracay, a tiny 10-square-kilometer island in the Western Visayas, holds international acclaim for White Beach’s powder-fine sand stretching along a 4-kilometer arc. Following a comprehensive six-month rehabilitation in 2018, this iconic destination now balances tourism with stricter environmental protections to preserve its famous shores.

Boracay offers dramatic sunsets, adrenaline-fueled water sports, and the most dynamic nightlife on Philippines islands. 

Weather: 75-90°F (24-32°C) with dry season from November to May

Location:Boracay Island, Philippines

Timings: Year-round (best visits October-May)

Entry Fee: ₱300 Environmental Fee + ₱150 Terminal Fee

What to do:

• Relax on White Beach, divided into three stations with impossibly soft white sand meeting crystal-clear turquoise waters and sunset performances.
• Experience vibrant nightlife on Philippines islands along White Beach, with beachfront bars offering live music, fire dancing, and beach parties.
• Try parasailing, kiteboarding, or helmet diving at Bulabog Beach, a global kiteboarding destination.

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3. Siargao

Siargao, shaped like a teardrop off Mindanao’s northeastern coast, has transformed from a surfer’s secret to an international destination while maintaining its laid-back charm. Known primarily for Cloud 9’s perfect barreling wave, the island embraces a carefree ethos where motorbikes, surfboards, and bare feet are the standard modes of transportation.

The island shows the Philippines’ natural beauty through coconut palm forests, mangrove reserves, tidal pools, and unspoiled beaches. 

Weather: 80-90°F (26-32°C) year-round with September-November bringing the best surf conditions

Location:Siargao Island, Philippines

Timings: Year-round (Surf competitions typically September-October)

Entry Fee: ₱100 Environmental Fee

What to do:

• Surf at Cloud 9, Siargao’s world-famous right-hand reef break with perfect tube rides and a viewing platform for spectators.
• Take the Three Island Tour to Naked Island, Daku Island, and Guyam Island, each offering distinctive environments and experiences.
• Visit Sugba Lagoon, a stunning emerald-green saltwater lagoon where you can dive from a platform or paddleboard through tranquil waters.
• Explore Magpupungko Rock Pools, natural tidal pools appearing during low tide with crystal-clear swimming holes surrounded by unique rock formations. 

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4. Cebu

Cebu, the Philippines’ oldest city and second-largest metropolitan area, balances urban development with natural attractions across its main island and 167 surrounding islets. This historic province where Magellan planted the cross in 1521 now serves as a major transportation hub, and gateway to many islands in Philippines.

From swimming with whale sharks to exploring Spanish colonial landmarks, Cebu offers both cultural depth and natural wonders that appeal to history enthusiasts and adventurers alike.

Weather: 75-90°F (24-32°C) with slightly cooler mountain areas

Location:Cebu, Philippines

Timings: Year-round (Whale shark watching: 6 AM – 12 PM)

Entry Fee: Free (Whale shark interaction in Oslob: ₱1,000 for foreigners)

What to do:

• Swim with whale sharks in Oslob, where these gentle giants congregate year-round offering an adventurous dive alongside the world’s largest fish species.
• Canyoneer down Kawasan Falls in Badian, jumping off cliffs, swimming through turquoise waters, and sliding down natural rock formations.
• Explore historic Cebu City, visiting Magellan’s Cross, the Basilica del Santo Niño, and Fort San Pedro to understand Philippines’ Christian roots.
• Venture to Moalboal for the famous sardine run, where millions of sardines form a massive silvery ball just meters from shore. 

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5. Bohol

Bohol combines natural wonders and wildlife conservation across its main island and 70 smaller islets. Known worldwide for the Chocolate Hills, over 1,200 perfectly cone-shaped mounds that turn brown during dry season, the province also champions conservation efforts for the endangered Philippine tarsier, one of the world’s smallest primates.

The island’s rich ecosystem includes Spanish colonial churches, cave systems, marine sanctuaries, and riverside attractions. Bohol’s companion island Panglao serves as a beach destination with white sand shores and diving spots.

Weather: 75-88°F (24-31°C) with dry season from November to May

Location:Bohol, Philippines

Timings: Year-round (Chocolate Hills viewing: 6 AM – 6:30 PM)

Entry Fee: Free (Chocolate Hills Complex: ₱50)

What to do:

• Marvel at the Chocolate Hills, a geological formation of 1,268 perfectly cone-shaped hills that turn brown during dry season.
• Visit the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary in Corella to observe these nocturnal primates with enormous eyes in their natural habitat.
• Cruise the Loboc River on a floating restaurant with traditional Filipino lunch while passing lush jungle scenery and cultural performances.
• Explore Panglao Island with Alona Beach’s white sand shores, excellent diving at Balicasag Marine Sanctuary, and beachfront restaurants. 

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6. Coron

Coron, the northernmost frontier of Palawan province, captivates visitors with a landscape of limestone karsts rising dramatically from crystal-clear lagoons. Part of the Calamian Islands group, Coron includes both Busuanga Island where the town center is located and nearby Coron Island, a tribal ancestral domain of the indigenous Tagbanua people.

The area gained fame for its Japanese shipwrecks from World War II, now transformed into artificial reefs teeming with marine life. Beyond diving, Coron’s freshwater lakes, hidden lagoons, and hot springs create an ideal place for nature lovers.

Weather: 75-88°F (24-31°C) with dry season from November to May

Location:Coron, Philippines

Timings: Year-round (Kayangan Lake: 8 AM – 4 PM)

Entry Fee: ₱300 Coron Island Ecotourism Fee + individual attraction fees

What to do:

• Swim in Kayangan Lake, often called the cleanest lake in the Philippines, with crystal-clear waters blending fresh and saltwater.
• Dive the Japanese shipwrecks from World War II, where vessels sunk during a 1944 US air raid now serve as artificial reefs.
• Relax in Maquinit Hot Springs, one of the world’s rare saltwater hot springs with natural temperatures around 100°F against a mangrove backdrop.
• Visit Twin Lagoon, where two bodies of water are separated by a karst wall with an enchanting mix of warm and cool water layers. 

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7. El Nido

El Nido inhabits the northernmost tip of mainland Palawan, where limestone cliffs, secret beaches, and 45 islands create the stunning Bacuit Archipelago. Once a quiet fishing village, the town now balances tourism with environmental protection.

Despite growing popularity, El Nido maintains a more intimate atmosphere than larger island destinations. The government enforces strict regulations to protect the area’s extraordinary biodiversity, including limits on daily visitors to popular sites and environmental fees that support conservation of this fragile ecosystem.

Weather: 75-90°F (24-32°C) with distinct dry (November-May) and wet seasons

Location:El Nido, Philippines

Timings: Year-round (Island hopping tours: 9 AM – 4 PM)

Entry Fee: ₱200 Eco-Tourism Development Fee

What to do:

• Join an island hopping tour to explore Bacuit Archipelago’s highlights including the Lagoons, Hidden Beach, and Snake Island’s S-shaped sandbar.
• Hike to Taraw Cliff for sweeping views over El Nido town and Bacuit Bay, rewarding early risers with spectacular sunrise panoramas.
• Relax on Nacpan Beach, an unspoiled 4-kilometer stretch of golden sand lined with coconut palms and small seafood restaurants.
• Dive at Shimizu Island, where healthy coral gardens teeming with colorful tropical fish lie in shallow waters with excellent visibility.

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8. Bantayan Island

Bantayan Island floats off Cebu’s northern tip, offering a glimpse of Philippine island life before mass tourism. This flat coral island preserves traditional fishing villages, colonial churches, and uncrowded white beaches where resorts remain refreshingly low-rise and local life continues alongside tourism.

The island’s trio of municipalities, Santa Fe, Bantayan, and Madridejos, each contribute to the island experience. Santa Fe hosts most tourist facilities along its eastern beaches, while Bantayan town shows Spanish colonial heritage, and Madridejos maintains traditional fishing practices including the impressive Kota Park fish traps extending into the sea.

Weather: 75-88°F (24-31°C) with dry season from November to May

Location:Bantayan Island, Philippines

Timings: Year-round (Holy Week draws large domestic crowds)

Entry Fee: Free (Environmental Fee: ₱30)

What to do:

• Relax on Paradise Beach in Santa Fe, and the water here is perfect for swimming.
• Try skydiving with Skydive Greater Cebu, where tandem jumps from 10,000 feet provide unparalleled aerial views before beach landings.
• Visit Kota Park in Madridejos to see traditional fish corrals extending into the sea and a Spanish colonial watchtower.
• Take a day trip to Virgin Island (Hilantagaan), an uninhabited sand bar with crystal clear waters. 

9. Malapascua

Malapascua, a tiny 2.5 by 1 kilometer island off Cebu’s northernmost tip, transformed from fishing village to dive destination after thresher sharks were discovered regularly visiting nearby Monad Shoal. 

Malapascua presents a compact paradise of white beaches, thatched-roof buildings, and paths winding through local villages. Limited development preserves the island’s intimate character offering a unique experience to the travelers.

Weather: 75-86°F (24-30°C) with best diving conditions from March to June

Location:Malapascua Island, Philippines

Timings: Year-round (Thresher shark dives start pre-dawn)

Entry Fee: ₱120 Environmental Fee

What to do:

• Dive at Monad Shoal to witness thresher sharks in their natural habitat, visiting cleaning stations at dawn in shallow waters.
• Explore Bounty Beach, the island’s main stretch of white sand lined with resorts, dive shops, and beachfront dining options.
• Take a boat trip to Kalanggaman Island, an idyllic sandbar extending into turquoise waters with limited visitor numbers.
• Hike to the Malapascua Lighthouse for panoramic sunset views, passing through local villages with glimpses of traditional island life. 

10. Batanes (Batan Island)

Batanes, the Philippines’ northernmost and smallest province, features dramatic landscapes more reminiscent of New Zealand or Ireland than tropical Southeast Asia. Located closer to Taiwan than mainland Luzon, these islands endure battering Pacific typhoons that have shaped both the terrain and the resilient Ivatan culture.

The provincial capital on Batan Island serves as the primary base for exploring windswept hills, dramatic coastlines, and traditional villages where ancient practices continue despite modernization elsewhere in the country.

Weather: 57-86°F (14-30°C) with cool season from November to February

Location:Batan Island, Philippines

Timings: Year-round (best April-June for calm seas)

Entry Fee: ₱350 NDRRMC fee for disaster preparedness

What to do:

• Explore Chavayan Village on Sabtang Island, where traditional stone houses with meter-thick walls and cogon grass roofs still stand.
• Visit the rolling landscapes of Vayang Rolling Hills and Marlboro Country, where verdant grasslands meet dramatic sea cliffs.
• Tour Basco Lighthouse in Naidi Hills, offering 360-degree views particularly spectacular at sunset when the hexagonal tower glows.
• Learn about Ivatan culture at the Batanes Ethnographic Museum, with artifacts explaining the unique adaptations developed by islanders.

11. Camiguin

Camiguin packs seven volcanoes into a compact island measuring just 23 kilometers long and 14 kilometers wide, earning its nickname “Island Born of Fire.” This geological wonderland has the highest volcano density per square kilometer in the world, with Mount Hibok-Hibok’s perfect cone dominating the island.

The island’s volcanic origin created exceptional natural attractions: hot and cold springs, waterfalls, and black sand beaches emerging from ancient lava flows. Despite its small size, Camiguin offers diverse experiences from summit treks to underwater adventures, all accessible within short travel distances.

Weather: 73-88°F (23-31°C) with best weather April-July

Location:Camiguin, Philippines

Timings: Year-round (Lanzones Festival in October)

Entry Fee: Environmental Fee varies according to different islands

What to do:

• Visit White Island, a pristine white sandbar that changes shape with tides, offering views of Mount Hibok-Hibok and excellent snorkeling.
• Bathe in Ardent Hot Springs, with multiple pools at varying temperatures fed by volcanic activity, especially enjoyable in evening hours.
• Swim beneath Katibawasan Falls, a 76-meter single-drop waterfall plunging into a cold, clear pool surrounded by ferns and orchids.
• Dive around the Sunken Cemetery, marked by a large cross rising from the sea where coral-encrusted tombstones create a unique memorial. 

12. Palaui Island

Source: Wikimedia

Palaui Island sits off northeastern Luzon’s coast, offering untamed beauty as a protected site and seascape since 1994. This remote destination gained international exposure as a filming location for the reality show “Survivor” yet remains refreshingly undeveloped with no permanent structures beyond the historic Cape Engaño Lighthouse.

The island’s pristine state rewards travelers willing to undertake the journey with ecosystems encompassing white sand beaches, volcanic rocks, coral reefs, mangrove forests, and waterfalls. 

Weather: 70-90°F (21-32°C) with dry season from March to October

Location:Palaui Island, Philippines

Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM (overnight camping requires permits)

Entry Fee: ₱50 Environmental Fee

What to do:

• Hike to Cape Engaño Lighthouse, built in 1892, where a challenging trail leads to panoramic views from the partially ruined stone structure.
• Trek through multiple ecosystems on guided trails crossing cogon grass, dense rainforest, mangrove boardwalks, and volcanic rock formations.
• Swim at Siwangag Cove, a pristine white sand beach with crystal-clear waters and healthy coral gardens in this protected marine sanctuary.
• Camp overnight at designated areas with permission, experiencing spectacular stargazing, sunrise views, and early morning wildlife watching.

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FAQs

How many islands are in Philippines?

The Philippines officially consists of 7,641 islands, of which approximately 2,000 are inhabited. The archipelago spans over 300,000 square kilometers across the western Pacific Ocean, making it one of the world’s largest island groups, divided among three main geographical divisions: Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

What are the most famous islands in Philippines for tourists?

The most famous Philippines islands for tourists include Boracay for its white sand beaches, Palawan for El Nido and Coron’s lagoons, Siargao for surfing, Cebu for its accessibility and diverse attractions, Bohol for the Chocolate Hills, and Panglao for its beaches and diving opportunities.

Are Philippines islands open to public?

Yes, most Philippines islands are open to public, though some have environmental protection measures limiting visitor numbers. Major tourist islands maintain regular ferry and flight services, while remote islands may require special permits or guide arrangements.

How to reach World Islands Philippines?

To reach islands in Philippines, international travelers typically fly into Manila or Cebu before connecting to smaller airports or ferry terminals. Major islands like Boracay, Palawan, Cebu, and Bohol have direct international flights, while remote islands require combinations of domestic flights, ferry services, and smaller boats.

Which is the most luxurious island in Philippines?

Boracay offers the most luxurious island experience in the Philippines following its rehabilitation, with 5-star resorts like Shangri-La, Crimson, and Discovery shores providing world-class accommodations. Palawan also features premium options at El Nido Resorts’ private island locations.

Which Philippines island is best for families?

Cebu is ideal for families due to its well-developed infrastructure, diverse activities for all ages, and excellent medical facilities. Boracay’s calm waters at White Beach provide safe swimming, while Bohol offers attractions like the Chocolate Hills, tarsier sanctuaries, and gentle wildlife encounters suitable for children.

What activities can you do on Philippines islands?

Philippines islands offer diverse activities including world-class diving and snorkeling, surfing, island hopping, beach relaxation, hiking volcano trails, exploring underground rivers and caves, wildlife viewing, cultural immersion in traditional villages, and enjoying vibrant nightlife on Philippines islands.

What is the best time to visit Philippines islands?

The ideal time to visit Philippines islands is during the dry season from November to April, with December to February offering cooler temperatures. The summer months of March to May provide excellent beach weather but with higher temperatures.