With 7,641 islands, the Philippines offers endless adventures and breathtaking sights. But with so many choices, planning your trip can feel overwhelming! After three years of living and traveling across the country, I’ve handpicked 10 exceptional things to do in the Philippines that will make your visit unforgettable.
Lounge on the best beaches
1. Mantigue Island
Mantigue (pronounced Man-tee-gee) is a tiny, uninhabited island off the coast of Camiguin, accessible only by bangka (a traditional Filipino boat).
Golden sands lined with swaying palms, baby blue waters and a dramatic backdrop of volcanoes make this a place to remember.
As a protected marine sanctuary, Mantigue boasts rich biodiversity and essential ecosystems. To preserve its pristine beauty, the local government enforces strict conservation measures, including a three-hour daily visitor limit, regulations on littering and monitoring of sensitive habitats like coral reefs and seagrass beds.
Three hours may sound restrictive, but under the intense Filipino sun, it’s enough time to soak in the island’s atmosphere. Thanks to these efforts, Mantigue remains a serene paradise, unspoiled by mass tourism and abundant in nature.
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2. Black Island
Unlike the other beaches in Coron, Black Island remains a hidden gem – most tourists haven’t even heard of it! The real magic? The absence of crowds. During my visit, I was lucky to have the entire island to myself!
Here, dramatic dark limestone cliffs tower above a golden powdery beach fringed with arching palms, creating a vivid and almost surreal landscape.
Located off Busuanga, Black Island lies just an island-hopping trip away. You can swim in its refreshing cave pool, wallow under the sun on the soft sands, or float in its pristine waters.
3. Port Barton
Tucked away in central Palawan, Port Barton is an emerging destination for a calm beach escape with peaceful island hopping.
With tranquil waters, untamed beaches and vivacious marine life just a short boat ride away, this laid-back town is a taste of paradise.
Thanks to its remote location and distance from major airports, Port Barton remains blissfully quiet.
Take part in adventure activities
4. Kawasan Canyoneering
Kawasan Canyoneering, also known as Badian Canyoneering, is one of the most exhilarating things to do in the Philippines and a must-visit attraction in South Cebu.
Would you leap off a 10-metre ridge into a turquoise canyon? Or soar headfirst over the jungle on a zipline? If you’re an adrenaline junkie, this adventure provides the ultimate thrill.
The journey begins with an optional – but highly recommended – zipline that flies you over farmland and dense forest to the canyoneering starting point.
During the trip, expect a heart-pounding mix of cliff jumps (ranging from 3 to 12 meters), natural waterslides and scenic swims through the canyon, concluding at the breathtaking Kawasan Falls.
5. Scuba dive reefs and wrecks
The Philippines has some of the world’s best scuba diving, making it an experience you won’t want to miss.
For a truly rare and unforgettable dive, head to Malapascua, a tiny island north of Cebu, one of the only places worldwide where you can encounter the elusive thresher shark.
If sharks aren’t your thing, Bohol’s Balicasag Island offers an excellent alternative. Its technicolored coral reefs teem with marine life, including graceful green and hawksbill turtles, as well as schools of vibrant fish.
Advanced divers should visit Coron. This island is home to several World War II Japanese shipwrecks, now transformed into thriving artificial reefs. Expect to see giant groupers, intricate fan corals and eerie artifacts. Diving here requires excellent buoyancy, as navigating the wrecks involves squeezing through narrow openings.
6. Swim in Kayangan Lake
Coron is renowned for its breathtaking island-hopping adventures and unspoiled natural beauty. Among its top attractions is Kayangan Lake, often nicknamed the cleanest and clearest lake in all of Asia!
With its unbelievably transparent waters, Kayangan Lake is a dream destination for freedivers, offering remarkable visibility beneath the surface.
Fortunately, you don’t need diving experience to appreciate its beauty. Anyone can enjoy it here by swimming, floating or admiring the scenery.
7. Kayak Big and Small Lagoon
A short boat ride from El Nido lies two connected lagoons, offering some of the best kayaking in Palawan.
Big Lagoon is the star attraction, with towering limestone cliffs rising dramatically over cobalt waters.
But don’t overlook Small Lagoon! While less impressive in size, this narrow limestone passage immerses you in a tranquil atmosphere, away from the crowds.
These lagoons are must-visit stops on an El Nido island-hopping tour. However, if you want to beat the crowds, consider booking a private boat and visiting during off-peak hours for a more peaceful experience.
Hike incredible trails
8. Banaue Rice Terraces
While many believe Bali boasts the best rice terraces in Southeast Asia, I’d argue that the Philippines takes that title – by a mile! There’s a reason Banaue’s terraces are often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World.”
Enclosed deep within the Cordillera Mountain Range of Luzon, Banaue is an 8-hour journey north of Manila. It requires a long bus ride from Manila with a stop in Baguio. But, for those willing to make the trip, the reward is nothing short of spectacular.
Here, you can hike along the narrow terrace walls, passing through breathtaking viewpoints and witnessing local farmers tending to their crops. The journey pinnacles at Tappiya Falls, a towering waterfall with a refreshingly cool pool – perfect for a well-earned swim after the sweaty hike.
Undoubtedly, hiking Banaue ranks as one of my favourite things to do in the Philippines!
9. Mount Manunggal
One of Cebu’s hidden gems, hiking Mount Manunggal promises both panoramic scenery and historical significance.
This mountain is the site of the tragic 1957 plane crash that claimed the life of President Ramon Magsaysay and 23 others. Along the hike, a monument stands to commemorate this sad day in Filipino history.
The trek itself is short but relatively challenging. Near the end, there is a steep rock climb to reach the viewpoint, requiring physical fitness to reach here.
Camping here is impressive. The viewing platform has 360-degree views, including spectacular sunrises and sunsets – assuming the weather is clear.
10. Hanging Coffins of Sagada
A relatively short and accessible hike, the Hanging Coffins of Sagada offer a pleasant blend of adventure and culture in the Philippines.
The trail leads through Echo Valley, eventually descending stairs to the Hanging Coffins – a burial tradition that dates back over 2,000 years. Here, coffins hang along the cliffside, a practice meant to honor and show respect for elders who have passed. The coffins are placed high up to bring the deceased closer to their ancestors.
Best time to visit the Philippines
The Philippines is best visited in the dry season (December to May). While a few rainy spells may occur, they’re usually brief and won’t disrupt your plans.
Though some travelers visit during the wet season, the weather is often highly unpredictable, making island-hopping and outdoor adventures more challenging. Heavy rains and rough seas can delay ferries, and in the worst case, a typhoon might keep you stuck indoors for days!
To make the most of your trip, plan your visit during the dry season and stay updated with the Philippines cyclone advisory for any sudden weather changes.
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