The island state (more than 7 thousand islands), lost in the ocean and sea expanses, the Philippines can rightfully be proud of its resorts. They are found on the largest inhabited islands and are becoming more and more attractive to tourists. The exotic beauty of nature, a lot of water activities, many diving sites, developed infrastructure make the resorts of the Philippines attractive and in demand.
Long flights from continents do not frighten fans of exotic islands. A huge selection of hotels, delicious varied food, interesting excursions to amazing sites and attractions, beautiful flora and fauna, luxurious beaches, a friendly population - what delights holidaymakers. Divers, surfers, glider pilots can improve their skills here. We offer the best resorts in the Philippines.
Manila
Metropolis, the country's 2nd largest city and the most populous city in the world, Manila is the capital of the Philippines and the main resort of the archipelago. The city is located on the eastern coast of Manila Bay, western part of Luzon Island. This is a subequatorial climate zone with 2 weather seasons - dry (November-April) and wet (May-October).
In the dry season, Manila is visited by almost 5 million people, in the remaining months about 3 million. In addition to active and passive beach and sea leisure, tourists have the opportunity to see many unique architectural and historical monuments of the ancient city. Manila was captured in different eras by the Spaniards, British, Americans and Japanese, who left their memory in various sights.
The ancient historical district of Manila Intramuros is an open-air museum with the Spanish fortress of Santiago. Christian churches, Buddhist temples, Muslim mosques appear before the eyes of the guests. A number of museums introduce the culture and history of the country. Day and night, the resort boils day and night life: water activities, excursions, discos, concerts, attractions, sea travel fill the leisure of tourists.
Boracay
A tropical fairy tale in reality - this is how you can characterize Boracay Island, which looks like a picture from a bounty advertisement. The unearthly beauty of landscapes with white sand, transparent azure of the sea, fantastic sunsets makes the most sophisticated tourists freeze with delight. On the one hand, Boracay stretches for several kilometers "White Beach" on the other - Balabog.
The white beach is preferred by those who like a quiet lazy rest with swimming and lying, with a visit to bars and cafes. And there are plenty of them here: pubs, hookah bars, coffee shops, massage shops, etc. A constant wind blows on Balabog, creating waves. It is a refuge for athletes, the focus of water sports schools and equipment rental shops. Experienced windsurfers, kite surfers demonstrate their ability to conquer the waves. Novice athletes have the opportunity to learn the basics of this skill.
In the evenings, almost the entire island turns into a fire show arena. The influx of tourists negatively affected the ecology of Boracay, therefore in April 2018 the island was closed for visits for sanitary quarantine for six months. Fire shows, diving, the operation of casinos and souvenir boutiques are now prohibited, but Boracay has not lost its charm from this.
Palawan
If you hold a competition for the most beautiful places on the planet, then, probably, the island of Palawan will take far from the last place. The local landscapes amaze the imagination so that one cannot believe in their reality. It seems that white rocks with an emerald forest cap, bright green rice fields are the scenery for an adventure film. There are so many natural wonders here: mangrove forests, impenetrable jungles, underground rivers, waterfalls, exotic fauna.
The island of Palawan, together with other neighboring islands, is the largest province of the Philippines and the least inhabited. Pristine beaches, authentic villages and towns, country roads amidst a riot of tropical greenery create a surreal picture. Puerto Princess is the largest city and capital of Palawan, where the planes land, the main hotels are located.
The coast of the island with a length of 2 thousand km - sandy beaches, picturesque bulk of rocks protruding from the water and approaching from the land, the cleanest sea. Thousands of square meters are based here. km of coral reefs protected by UNESCO. Lovers of exploring the mysteries of nature will find a lot of interesting things in Palawan. In the village Sabanga is an underground river of the same name, flowing through a karst cave with stunning stalactites and stalagmites. She (the river) was included in the list of 28 "new wonders of the world" and is included in the world list of UNESCO.
Panay
This island, described in the book "Maragtas" by P. Monteclaro, is washed by the Sibuyan Sea from the north, and the Sulu Sea and the Panay Bay from the south-west. The book describes the history of the appearance on the island of the ancient Malays - the ancestors of the Filipinos, and for the inhabitants of the island it is the main literary work. As well as in Palawan, in Panai there are many exotic beauties, natural phenomena, unusually interesting and mysterious.
The western coast is notable for its uniqueness, famous for diving objects: the underwater walls of Buruang and Nasog, the Black Rock, the steep cliff Dog Drift, etc. Beginner divers tend to come here - huge coral colonies, enchanting flocks of tropical fish, excellent visibility create favorable conditions for inexperienced athletes.
Stalactite-stalagmite caves on the island are unusually interesting. In the most voluminous of them, Pangihan, such limestone formations are almost 5 million years old. Panay will appeal to those who delve into the secrets of nature, seeks to explore. Although there is plenty of space for fans of a measured beach holiday - there are more than enough wonderful beaches. Comfortable modern hotels, nightclubs, elite restaurants will satisfy any request.
Cebu
Paradise Island is a multifunctional resort where virgin nature is harmoniously combined with civilized comfort. Enchanting lagoons with crystal clear waters, an abundance of coral reefs with a rich oceanic fauna, amazing beaches and a variety of palm trees - this is the natural backdrop of Cebu. Tourists are guaranteed a serene quality stay throughout the island, comfortable accommodation in luxury all-inclusive hotels.
Around Cebu there are many small islands, where snorkeling and surfers, cave explorers have freedom. Divers are provided with an exciting lesson to explore the unique underwater world. In addition to the coral walls, the remains of several sunken ships rest on the seabed, attracting deep-sea divers from all over the world.
But on land, Cebu has a lot of interesting things: the architectural and religious monuments of the Spanish era attract close attention of guests. Fort San Pedro, the Basilica of Santo Niño, which houses the image of the Christ Child, are the most popular tourist sites. Local shopping centers, shops, markets offer a large selection of national souvenirs and other goods.
Bohol
Southeast of Cebu is a volcanic island, the 10th largest in the Philippine archipelago of Bohol. It is surrounded by a small mound of 70 small islands that form a single resort area. Bohol Island is connected to the largest of them - Panglao Island by a bridge and a road. Everything here has a special natural and everyday flavor.
Bohol's relief is hilly: 1.5 thousand hills cover the surface of the island. They were nicknamed "chocolate" for the brown color of the drying grass. The contrast of brown hills and vibrant tropical greenery makes the area very picturesque.261 km of coastline is a tropical paradise with coral sandy beaches, many colorful caves, crystal waterfalls and emeralds of lush flora.
Rest among such beauties is truly heavenly. And for divers and snorkellers there are endless expanses of the sea depths. On land, with rich flora and fauna, there are also many interesting things. The excursion to the Tarsier Center, a rare species of tiny monkeys with big eyes, is very fascinating for the holiday-makers. These cute creatures in their natural environment live only in Bohol, but you can see and communicate with them in a specially fenced park. A stay in Bohol gives you a vivid unforgettable experience.
Siquihor
For many Filipinos, the name of this island province of Siquihor evokes mystical fear. Most likely, such a perception of the island is associated not only with the sorcerers and magicians still practicing there, but also with the presence of a huge number of fireflies living in the trees. At sunset, they reflect an iridescent glow, which is why Siquihor is otherwise called Isla del Fuego (the island of fire).
However, tourists are not at all afraid of the mystical background of the wonderful island with the most beautiful natural attractions. Especially in recent years, streams of people float on ferries to enjoy the beautiful spectacle of white beaches, large and small waterfalls, azure sea and tropical flora. On the territory of Sikihora there are 6 towns, each of which has the necessary tourist infrastructure, ancient temples and the extraordinary friendliness of local residents.
The main transport in the resort is motorbikes, tricycles and multi-cabs. The absence of heavy vehicles contributes to an even cleaner environment. The underwater world around is a truly fantastic picture, and divers have been visiting Siquihor for a long time. Excursions to mangrove parks, the Butterfly Garden, to caves, to mysterious objects are impressive to the core. A wide variety of food outlets, from small eateries to international restaurants, provide food for the holidaymaker.
Malapaskuya
Not far from the northern end of Cebu Island is a tiny island (2.5 km X 1 km) Malapaskuya. The name, consisting of 2 words, is translated from Spanish as "bad Christmas". When the Spanish first landed here on Christmas Day, there was a storm. It is home to 5 thousand people in 8 villages, servicing mainly 20 hotels. Those who are not employed in this area fish, grow vegetables and other agricultural products.
Although getting to Malapaska is not easy, the difficulties of the path do not stop curious tourists seeking to plunge into the atmosphere of pristine nature. She has not yet been spoiled by civilization here. The cleanest uncrowded beaches, clear water, an abundance of dive sites are attractive factors for many, especially from November to May, when there is little rainfall. Here, in the coastal zones, deep-sea thrasher sharks are found, sailing in shallow water for the cleaning procedure to the cleaning wrasses.
Divers use moments like this to get up close and personal with these amazing creatures. The first foreigner (Swiss) who bought land here appeared on the island 30 years ago. After 10 years, he opened the 1st hotel, now there are 20 of them, and they are not empty. The beaches of Logon Beach, Bounty Beach, Lighthouse, Tavigan are recognized as the most popular in Malapascuy. They are amazingly beautiful, comfortable and at the same time captivate with their primordiality.
Calangaman
A tiny bounty island (800 m long) is located northeast of Cebu Island in the vicinity of Palompon. When you first come here, you will immediately think: “This is where the real paradise is” - in other words, it is difficult to describe Kalanggaman Island. The nature painter used her most delicate tones to outline the landscape picture. White-pink sand, transparent aquamarine of the sea, openwork crowns of palm trees under the bright blue sky - an artistic masterpiece captivating with harmonious beauty.
Crowds of tourists do not come here, so the errors of civilization did not negatively affect the ecology of Kalanggman. Getting to the paradise is not so easy and mainly as part of a group paid excursion from Palompon and Cebu. Everyone is transported by boat for 100 pesos (160 rubles), for a visit 500 pesos (300 rubles).
While sailing, you can see the seabed at a depth of 10 meters - the water is so clear. It is no coincidence that fans of snorkelling are based on Kalanggman. Bright yellow, red, variegated fish, corals, clown fish - the underwater world around is truly magical. There is room for photo and video filming. Those who have had the pleasure of seeing the sunsets on Callangman will never forget them.
Davao
The largest resort city, the second most populous after Manila, Davao was developed by the Spaniards in 1848 on the island of Mindanao. By displacing the Spaniards in 1900, the Americans created the conditions for the economic prosperity of the resort. Today it is the most popular tourist destination not only due to its highly developed infrastructure, but also due to favorable natural factors.
In the water area of Davao, there are almost never storms, and even more so, typhoons. The city is protected from the wind by high mountains, affecting also a climate that does not have a sharp contrast between dry and wet seasons. Comfortable weather without intense heat makes the resort year-round to visit. It is also important for holidaymakers that there is no crime here, thanks to the strict control of special police units. The magnificent beaches of Davao provide excellent conditions for active and passive recreation.
Diving schools are open here, the resort is rightfully considered the best diving center in the Philippines. Davao is absolutely safe for children and elderly guests to stay in it: car traffic is strictly limited, and there is a fight against illegal trade in alcohol and smoking in public places. Streets, beaches, hotels shine with cleanliness. The development and prosperity of the city is facilitated by the presence of the main airport of the Philippines, which receives passengers on domestic and international flights.
Samal
The South Philippines is known throughout the world as a haven for raw food tourists who eat only a variety of tropical fruits and vegetables. Some of them, including Russians, even stay on Samal permanently. Cozy bungalow hotels, paradise nature, an abundance of fruits, seafood, good beaches make your stay here comfortable. Flights from Moscow here take a long time with a transfer in Manila to Davao. From there you need to take a ferry to Samal and there to your destination by motorcycle taxi or bus.
Probably, due to the difficulty of the way to Samal, the bulk of tourists are Filipinos who come here from cities on weekends and holidays. They are attracted by the beautiful landscapes, stunning beaches, the atmosphere of authentic rural life and the opportunity to gorge themselves on all kinds of fruits. But not everything is so euphoric and cloudless on Samal.
There are problems with transport, making frequent accidents on steep mountain serpentines. It is difficult to find a comfortable home here with all the benefits of civilization. There is a risk of contracting the deadly mosquito-borne dengue fever. You should definitely not come here with small children.
Talikud
A tiny island near Mindano is a place where almost all exotic fruits of the tropics grow: bananas, coconuts, avocados, papaya, atimoya and much more. Here the blue of the sky merges with the azure of the sea and it seems that there is a continuous ocean around. But walking through the territory of Talikud, you are convinced that such earthly beauties are located on this piece of land that will take your breath away.
Almost wild snow-white beaches washed by clear waters, lush grass under coconut palms rising upward, “toy” houses of local residents - all this looks like a fabulous splint, not reality. Ferries arrive at Talikud from the port of Magsaysay (Davao) and dock at the port of Santa Cruz. Next to it is Isla Reta Beach, the largest beach of the island with white sand, clear sea.
There are no buildings on it, there are usually few people - a secluded rest is guaranteed.On other beaches (Dayyang, Babusanta), there are houses right by the coast, which can be rented for 500 pesos per day. Here, coconuts are sold directly from the palm trees or treated for free. A few days in this tropical paradise will be remembered for a lifetime.
Carabao
The lovely cozy island of Carabao, located not far from Boracay, contrasts with it with silence, tranquility, virgin nature, an atmosphere of relaxation and serenity. But at the same time, here the external virginity of nature is combined with the presence of comfortable hotels with Internet and TV, bars and cafes. If you want to fully immerse yourself in the life of a small island with its friendly people, enjoy the stunning pitchforks of the tropics, take a break from the hustle and bustle of the cities, this is the right place.
You can come on a 1-day excursion, spend here honeymoon days or a week of complete relaxation. All the delights of modern civilization will be provided by 4-star hotels, and great drinks will be offered in local bars. Most of the time can be devoted to swimming, sunbathing, communicating with the good-natured Filipinos, observing the local fauna and flora, kayaking. Extreme climbers can jump from cliffs into lagoons, and divers are ready to dive to depths around the clock, where there is something to see. Swimming with a mask and a snorkel will bring a lot of pleasure.
Coron
This small island near Boisanga Island is not only natural, but also ethnographic unique in the Philippines. Fantastic nature, incredible landscapes, a flair of almost primitive mysticism make Coron the most mysterious tourist attraction. Steep rocky shores overgrown with dense greenery, 11 stunning lakes, bays with emerald water, a beautiful sandy beach - this is the landscape of Korona.
It is open to tourists only for excursions; there are no hotels or other establishments here. Aborigines live on it - a truly wild tribe that does not allow other people on 99% of the territory. However, in recent years, group boat excursions from Boisang have been allowed. Local residents realized the material benefits of the visits. Tourists have a lot to see in these amazing wilderness areas.
The sacred lake Kayangan with emerald water among the picturesque rocks - it is difficult to describe in words an amazing sight! Around the water area there are wooden bridges, from which one can admire the surrounding landscapes, things are left on them during swimming (it is recommended to swim in life jackets). The second of the visited lakes of Barracuda Lake is just as beautiful. It was chosen by divers who dive to a depth of more than 20 m. Even a short stay here leaves a strong impression.
Dumaguete
A comfortable modern resort and the ancient city of Dumaguete on the Negros Island has long become a favorite vacation spot for many Russians. The small town is very clean, surrounded by greenery of palm trees and other tropical flora. The active resort life is in full swing on the picturesque embankment, along which it is pleasant to make an evening promenade. Everyone's attention is drawn here by the monument “Nuns in Boats. It was erected in honor of the nuns who sailed here to escape the Spanish invaders. As a sign of salvation, the nuns founded a monastery here.
An excellent well-maintained beach, clear sea, the opportunity to go in for water sports, good hotels allow you to make your vacation unforgettable. Deep impressions remain from visiting the ancient Spanish fort, the ancient cathedral, located in the central square. These attractions are always full of people. Here newlyweds get married, wedding celebrations, national rituals of the Filipinos take place. There is no shortage of various shopping establishments, cafes and bars.
Bantayan
A small island in the northwest of Cebu attracts vacationers with beautiful clean beaches and relatively low prices for accommodation. It has all the necessary tourist infrastructure: hotels, restaurants, bars, shops. The resort of Santa Fe is especially popular - a recognized tourist center, where everything is provided for the comfort of vacationers. There are also ATMs, which is important, since they are absent elsewhere in Bantayan.
People come to the island to enjoy sea bathing, beach pleasures, tropical flavor, and the taste of exotic fruits. There is no noisy nightlife, no entertaining parties in Bantayan. There are interesting natural and man-made sights: mysterious caves, a butterfly farm, an ancient Catholic cathedral in the administrative center - Bantayan. It will appeal to those who are tired of living in a big city.
Siargao
The eastern island of the Philippines, which belongs to the Mindanao group, is located north of the main island. Truly magical tropics open up stunning beauty before the eyes of amazed tourists. White sands, light turquoise of the sea, bizarre rocks forming cozy lagoons, an abundance of coconut trees - an impressive picture especially for those who first come to Siargao (island of palm trees).
This is an unofficial Filipino surf center. It is here on the east coast that the world famous surf spot "Cloyd 9" is located, where famous wave conquerors hone their skills. High tides from the open ocean with large pacific waves create good surfing conditions. Surf equipment rental points are open all over the coast, there are knowledgeable instructors, a rescue service.
