7000+ Islands in the Philippines – How to decide where to go
With over 7,000 islands, it can be it difficult to know where to start looking when planning a trip to the Philippines. Honestly, I was overwhelmed when I first started researching it.
I have this complex where I must research my travel destinations very thoroughly. I must know my destination inside out before I go… otherwise I feel unprepared and like I might miss something. People have said to me before: “How do you know so much about this place, you’re like a local?”
It usually means that my trips are pretty epic, but it can also be overwhelming.
So herein lay my dilemma; I could not research 7000 islands! Which are the best islands?
Here’s how I researched this magnificent country, and where to go!
The Philippines has over 7000 islands, each stunningly beautiful in their own way, but what islands are the best? Here’s your full guide on beautiful islands in the Philippines!
I’d seen idyllic, tropical photos from this beautiful country and I liked the idea of visiting locations not too spoiled by tourism… but I faced so many questions! Where do I go? What islands had the nicest beaches? Where could I find those beautiful waterfalls? Where was safe? Are the airlines safe? What islands have sanitation?
Decide what you want from your trip
The first thing you need to do is decide what you want from you trip, whether that be luxury hotels, beautiful beaches or stripped back hostels with no WiFi. Each option has its benefits, so it is best to figure this out first. We were only in the Philippines for 9 days, so Mike and I wanted adventure, beautiful beaches, waterfalls and hotels with AC and WiFi. But I still needed to do more to narrow it down.
How I researched
- I asked questions on a travel blogging group on Facebook
- I checked airline safety records
- I used a Lonely Planet book on the Philippines
- I scoured Instagram and social media to look for realistic pictures
1. Travel groups on Facebook
These groups literally have thousands of members and helped me narrow down where I wanted to go. Do a search for travel groups and pick which ones you want to join, a few examples are:
- Lonely Planet Travelers Group
- The Solo Female Traveler Network
- Photographers & Travel Nomads
I had over one hundred of suggestions of islands to visit. Everybody told me not to bother staying in Manila and to fly straight to the islands. The most common recommendations were:
- Boracay
- Palawan
- Coron
- Bohol
- Siquijor
But just remember, the most common suggestions doesn’t mean it is the best destination, it might simply be a popular destination.
2. Airline Safety
I was also told the airlines were safe in the Philippines, but I always check. I once had a bad experience on a flight back from Madrid, so now I make a point of always checking to see what the airline safety is. Have a look at airline safety ratings here. We flew with Cebu Pacific and after reading this article, I felt confident.
3. Using a Lonely Planet guide
Lonely Planet guides are INVALUABLE. They give you incredible detail on things you would never have even thought of and must know facts about a destination. They always suggest itineraries, great food spots, excellent hotels, whacky museums and more!
4. Using Social Media
Look at photos of your destination on social media, mostly hashtags and locations on Instagram, Pinterest and YouTube. Bloggers will always upload photos that are edited so just be wary of this, check photos from locals as well.
A quick bit of research told me Palawan and Coron were iddylic and beautiful, but very touristy and overcrowded, so I vetoed it pretty quickly.
A few travelers recommended Siquijor, a quiet island with incredible beaches and topaz blue waterfalls. I learnt the island was steeped in a history of magic with plenty of tales of witches and shamen that lived in the mountains. It was also called ‘Isla de Fuega’ or ‘The Island of Fire’ due to the overwhelming number of fireflies that light up the night sky. The entire place sounded like magic. Quite simply, I was sold.
When I travel around, I never really stay in just one place. I itch to explore and I thought Siquijor might not be enough to entertain me for 9 days. A little research showed me that Siquijor was a short ferry ride to Bohol; a larger island with greater infrastructure, a lot of beautiful beaches, monkeys and natural sights to see. There were flights in and out of both islands to Manila (the capital) which made the decision easy for us.
It’s always great to hear about other peoples’ experiences in the same country. Let me know if you went anywhere else in the Philippines and what you ended up doing!
Beautiful Islands in the Philippines
- Boracay Island: Known for its powdery white sand beaches and vibrant nightlife, Boracay is a popular tourist destination for backpackers, so if this is your jam, head here!
- Palawan: Home to the stunning El Nido and Coron, Palawan is renowned for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and incredibly formed volcanic landscapes with jutting cliffs, but it does get very busy during the summer months and high season is packed with tourists.
- Cebu: Aside from its bustling urban centres, Cebu offers beautiful beaches and is a gateway to nearby islands like Malapascua and Bantayan.
- Bohol: Famous for its Chocolate Hills and the adorable tarsier primates, Bohol is a favorite among nature enthusiasts.
- Siargao: A haven for surfers, Siargao is known for its impressive waves and laid-back atmosphere.
- Bantayan Island: Located in the Visayas, Bantayan is appreciated for its tranquility and picturesque beaches.
- Siquijor Island: Often associated with mysticism, Siquijor offers natural beauty, including beaches and waterfalls.
- Mindoro: Home to Puerto Galera, a well-known dive destination, and the less crowded but equally beautiful Apo Reef.
- Panay Island: Includes popular destinations like Boracay and Antique, known for its unspoiled beauty.
- Camiguin: Referred to as the “Island Born of Fire” due to its volcanic origins, Camiguin is loved for its hot springs and stunning landscapes.
- Luzon Island: The largest island in the Philippines, it’s home to the bustling capital city of Manila and offers diverse attractions such as the Banaue Rice Terraces and Mount Mayon.
I’d seen idyllic, tropical photos from this beautiful country and I liked the idea of visiting locations not too spoiled by tourism… but I faced so many questions! Where do I go? What islands had the nicest beaches? Where could I find those beautiful waterfalls? Where was safe? Are the airlines safe? What islands have sanitation?
