The Philippines’ most popular beach getaway has long been Boracay, but with the country comprising of 7,107 islands, it stands to reason that there are little pockets of paradise still undiscovered by major developers. I discovered this blog, ‘Backpacking Pilipinas’ that proved me right. But be warned, these natural beauties aren’t for those looking for room service and massages, these are for those prepared to be adventurous to experience nature as it’s meant to be – mostly untouched by the hand of man. So just sit down, relax and get ready to be amazed by 16 incredible yet unspoiled beaches in the Philippines!
Original article: Backpacking Pilipinas
Things to remember:
1. It is essential to do your research and plan your trip ahead of time. Most of these beaches have very basic amenities, so it is important to learn all you can about where you’re going so you can bring what you need. Food, toiletries, even a tent if there no established huts or resorts to stay in.
2. Dispose your trash properly. If possible, bring home your spoils.
3. If there are local peddlers in the area, patronize them. The small income they get from tourism brings food to their table.
4. Setting up a bonfire near the beach is not encouraged. If you do want a bonfire, find (or bring a tray) to use a base for it and not directly onto the sand. Let’s protect the beaches.
5. Land or boat transfer going to and from these beaches can be very limited. Check out their schedule.
6. It may seem like a silly suggestion but, check the weather! You don’t want to get stuck in these beaches/islands especially unprepared. It’ll surely dampen the beach experience.
7. Bring some beach/camp essentials: swimsuit, snorkeling gear, sun protect lotion, insect repellent, etc…
1. Camarines Norte’s Amazing Beach: Calaguas Island
Photo source: Calaguas Islands
The Calaguas is a group of islands just off the Camarines Norte in the Bicol Region. Tourists are ahead of the major developers here. They brave a 2-hour boat ride to be able to enjoy amazing, untouched beaches of pristine white sands that rival any in the Carribbean. The boat ride is only start of the adventure. Be prepared to unplug, and literally, go wireless – there is no electricity, cellphone or data signals servicing the islands. Sari-sari stores have limited supplies so bringing your own food and toiletries are essential. So, forget the digital age and enjoy nature – swim, hike, build a sandcastle or two! Just relax and unwind.
How to get to Calaguas Island:
Take an 8-hour bus ride from Manila to Daet, Camarines Norte. From Daet, take a jeep going to Vinzons (about 20 mins away) and ask the driver to drop you off at the port. The boatride from Vinzons to Calaguas takes about 2 hours.
2. Cagayan’s “Boracay of the North”: Palaui Island, Anguib Cove
Photo source: Unchartered Philippines
Northern Luzon boasts of some of the beaches that you can still call “untouched.” Two of the best are Palaui Island and Anguib Cove which are both located at Sta. Ana, Cagayan. A 25-minute boat ride from San Vicente Port in Sta. Ana, will get you to Anguib Cove which has a white sand beach likened by many to the White Beach of Boracay. One side of the cove possesses unusual rock formations which are fantastic to explore. There are no resorts here so bring a tent or rent one of the nipa huts available.
Another option is Palaui Island, about 30 minutes away from San Vicente Port. The island was declared a National Marine Reserve in 1994 and is largely uninhabited save for a small fishing community. Naturally stunning, the island boasts an amazing coastline and abundant marine life and wildlife. Another main attraction is the 18th century lighthouse built by the Spaniards called Farol de Cabo Engano or Cape Engano. There are virtually no accommodation in the island, it is advisable to bring your own tent and food supplies if you want to stay overnight, just ask permission from the tourism officer at San Vicente.
How to get to Palaui Island:
Option 1:
Plane ride from Manila to Tuguegarao City – Approx 1 hr
Van or bus from Tuguegarao City to Santa Ana – P180 fare – Approx 4 hours (last van going to Santa Ana leaves Tuguegarao at around 5pm)
Boat options from Santa Ana to Palaui Island– Rates: P1,800 straight to Cape Engano -approx travel time 30 minutes P750 to Punta Verde in Palaui Island then hike for 3.5 to 4 hours going to Cape Engano. Guide Fee is P250
Option 2:
Bus from Manila (Florida Bus and Victory Liner) has direct route to Santa Ana, Cagayan – approx travel time is 16 hours.
Hire a boat going to Palaui. Rates: P1,800 straight to Cape Engano -approx travel time 30 minutes P750 to Punta Verde in Palaui Island then hike for 3.5 to 4 hours going to Cape Engano. Guide Fee is P250.
3. Enchanting Beaches of Coron, Palawan: Malcapuya Island, Banana Island, Bulog-dos Island
Bulogdos
Photo source: Calvin’s Hub
Malcapuya Island
Photo source: Trip Advisor
Island-hopping is one of the things recommended when going to Coron. The beauty of Palawan has drawn a fair amount of tourists and so this area is probably more commercialised than the others on this list. But applaud officials for their forward-thinking. Palawan is recognised for its strict adherence to conservation, wildlife protection and preservation. This adherence has ensured a nature-lover’s paradise and while there are areas that are more famous, and so more frequented than most, going to these three beaches – Malcapuya, Banana and Bulog-dos Islands – may still mean having all of the beach to yourself.
How to get to Coron:
Take a flight from Manila going to Busuanga. From Busuanga Airport, hop on a van bound for the town of Coron which is about 45 minutes away. Boat rentals for island-hopping are available at the town proper.
4. Mindoro Occidental’s Dive Treasures: Apo Reef Island, Pandan Island
Apo Reef
Photo source: Nomadic Experiences
Pandan Island
Photo source: Pandan
Imagine spending a weekend on a remote island, on a tent accommodation and surrounded by lush mangrove forest, a stunning lighthouse, a white sand beach, clear sea, and some beautiful rock formations? Superb right!? How about we throw in the picture the underwater gems that are a cut above the rest in the world — imagine swimming with sharks, green sea turtles, barracuda and diverse bright-colored fish and with colorful corals in the background! A recipe for a perfect weekend, indeed! Enough said, Apo Reef and Pandan Island are the places to be not just for divers, but also those gunning for a beach retreat!
How to get to Apo Reef:
Fly to San Jose, Mindoro Occidental from Manila. From the airport, take a trike going to the bus/van station bound for Sablayan. Once in Sablyan, head straight to the municipal tourism office and coordinate your trip to Apo Reef. They provide rentals for boats and camping essentials (tent, snorkeling/dive gears). If you need help in cooking, it’s on them, too (with a fee, of course).
Tip: Going to Apo Reef can be expensive especially for solo or couple travelers. If you’re up on a budget trip, I highly suggest you go there in group so you’ll have people to share the financial damages with. Regardless, the place is worth it!
5. Catanduanes’ Golden Sand Beaches: Puraran Beach, Palumbanes Island, Mamangal Beach, Marilima Beach
Palumbanes Island
Photo source: Skyscraper City
Puraran Beach
Photo source: Wikinut
Catanduanes is located on the most easternmost fringe of Luzon. Most famous for the surfer’s haven of Puraran Beach, most of the island is still virtually unexplored and unspoiled. It possesses of an incredible biodiversity, both through it’s thick jungles and prisine waters, making it a perfect spot for an eco adventure. The lack of modern world amenities means that there really is no choice but to unplug and unwind.
Mamangal Beach
Photo source: The Wandering Juan
Marilima Beach
Photo source: The Wandering Juan
How to get to Catanduanes:
The fastest way to get there is by taking a commercial flight via Cebu Pacific. The flight from Manila to Virac takes only about 55 minutes. Cebu Pacific is flying to Virac four times a week (Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday)
Another option, though an arduous one, is by taking a 12-hr bus ride from Manila to Tabaco, Albay. From Tabaco City Port, you can take a ferry boat going to either Virac (4 hours travel time) and San Andres (3 hours travel time).
6. Romblon, Romblon’s Idylls: Tiamban Beach, Bonbon Beach
Bonbon Beach
Photo source: Panoramio
Tiamban Beach
Photo source: Backpacking Pilipinas
This province which is about 346 km south of Manila is composed of three major islands: Romblon, where the capital city of Romblon is located, Tablas, the largest island in the province, and Sibuyan, the easternmost island. It’s coastline is dotted with many white sand beaches that are not in the radar of most tourists. Famous for it’s hospitality, the province has a nearly zero crime rate! Romblon is also famous for their marble craftsmen. Recognised as the best in the Philippines, the industry owes its roots to the Italians in the 1950’s.
Must-visit beaches:
Tiamban Beach – From the port, we asked a trike driver for the best beach near the town of Romblon (Fare: P 100). Our driver brought us to Tiamban Beach (Rate: P650/night/fan room), located at Barangay Lonos, about 15 minutes away from the port. The resort has two available rooms for overnight stay and most of the cottages are for day trips only. I fell in love with this beach! Just magnificent.
Bonbon Beach, a public beach that has a sandbar that connects the main island of Romblon to the neighboring Bang-ug Island during low tide. Entrance is free and just a trike away from downtown Romblon. Tell the trike driver to drop you off at the access path going to Bonbon beach.)
How to get to Romblon, Romblon:
The most economical way to get there is by boat.From Manila, take a bus going to Batangas Pier. At the port, book your ticket with Montenegro Ferry or MV Grand Unity.
7.Siquijor’s Magical Shores: Kagusuan Beach, Salagdoong Beach, San Juan Beaches, Siquijor Beach/Port
Kagusuan Beach
Photo source: Rappler
Salagdoong Beach
Photo source: Islands Of The Philippines
San Juan Beach
Photo source: Tha Holiday
Port Of Siquijor
Photo source: Out Of Town
The Port of Siquijor is probably the best indicator for any arriving visitor that their holiday is not gonna be like any other they’ve had. The small island boasts of a white sand beach and a mountainous interior. About 30 minutes away from the town proper of Siquijor, one may rent a trike to take you to San Juan, the town where most of the resorts are located. If you want a more quiet place, you may rent a motorcycle — which is the best way to explore the whole island– and go to the hidden Kagusuan Beach. A word of caution, witchcraft is practiced by some of the residents on the island. To others it’s folklore, to others a reality. Whatever you decide to believe, be mindful to be polite and treat the locals with respect.
How to get to Siquijor:
Coming from Manila, the easiest way to get there is by taking a flight going to Dumaguete City. From the port, hail a trike and go to the sea port (near Siliman University). Boats bound for Siquijor have regular trips there (travel time is about 1 hour).
8. Remote Islands of Sorsogon: Subic Beach, Tikling Island
Subic Beach
Photo source: Backpacking Pilipinas
Tikling Island
Photo source: Flickr
Sorsogon is located at the southernmost tip of Luzon. Relaxed and hospitable, the area has a few things to definitely check out. Tikling Island is a quiet, beautiful beach which remains off the tourists’ map. Another beach worth visiting is Subic Beach, about 30-45 minutes boat ride from Matnog. An overnight camp near its pretty pink sand beach under a starry night is definitely a treat to indulge in in summer. Also visit the three lakes of Bulusan Volcano and don’t miss the spectacular light display of the fireflies of Donsol and Ogod River.
How to get to Matnog, Sorsogon:
Those coming from Manila can take a bus going straight to Matnog — inquire at Philtranco, Raymond and Amihan (Cubao, Quezon City). Travel period can take about 13-15 hours so it’s advisable to travel at night.
Another option is to take a flight going to Legazpi City (Cebu Pacific, AirPhil Express, Zest Air). Then hail a trike going to the Central Terminal where you can take vans headed to Sorsogon City. From Sorsogon City, take a jeepney going to Matnog. Once in the town proper, you can take jeep or trike to go around.
To go island hopping (day trip), you could ask some boatmen at Matnog Port to take you around for P700 (1-2 pax) and P1500 (group). They provide life-jackets for safety and you could make arrangements if you wish you stay overnight in the island.
Contact boatman: “Arangkada” Camcaman, Bhrian Garcia Geneblazo – 0926-545-8648
9. Marinduque’s Best Finds: Maniwaya Island, Tres Reyes Islands
Maniwaya Island
Photo source: Pinoy Adventurista
Tres Reyes Island
Photo source: Marinduque Rising
The main island of Marinduque has coastal areas that has grayish sand, but the islands off its coasts offer some finer white sandy shores. You may go to Barangay Pinggan at the sleepy town of Gasan and take a worthwhile daytrip going to the three islets facing its shores — the Tres Reyes Islands, named after the three Magi of the Nativity – Melchor, Gaspar, and Baltazar.
Other islands worth-seeing around Marinduque are: Mongpong, Maniwaya and Polo. These three have yet to rise from fame, and better catch them before everyone else does.
How to get to Marinduque:
Take the JAC Liner Bus (Php850) – Kamias Road Terminal, Quezon City to Dalahican Port, Lucena City (approximate travel time: 3 to 4 hours) Then RoRo ride from Dalahican Port, Lucena City to Cawit Port, Boac, Marinduque (average travel time: 3-4 hours).
10. Batanes’ Exceptional Seascapes: Valugan Beach, Nakabuang Beach
Nakabuang Beach
Photo source: Motorcycle Philippines
Valugan Bay
Photo source: Philippine Beaches
People don’t really go to Batanes for the beach. Very often, the reason of travel to this dreamy northernmost province is to experience its well-preserved culture, to see the old stone houses and to laze on its magnificent rolling hills. But there’s something different about Batanes’ beaches– take for instance the boulder-filled shore of Valugan Beach, an excellent example of the rugged uniqueness of this island. On the other hand, Nakabuang Beach in Sabtang Island offers a white sand beach with a panoramic vantage point accentuated by the famous arc rock formation that’s a geological wonder. These beaches are silent witnesses to the harsh weather conditions this province is known for, that when the storm is out, what remains are seascapes that truly calms even the most weary hearts.
How to get to Batanes:
PAL Express has daily flights to Basco, Batanes. If you want to explore its neighboring islands, Sabtang and Itbayat, you have the option to go on a rough but exciting Falowa ride or take a chartered flight going to Itbayat.
11. Skim, Surf and Beach Bum at Mati, Davao Oriental: Dahican Beach
Photo source: Skyscraper City
Dahican Beach in Mati City, Davao Oriental is known as the Skimboarding Capital of the Philippines. It’s wide, unbroken stretch of shoreline is absolutely beautiful and the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable beach holiday. Go ahead and learn surfing or skimboarding from the famous Amihan Boys for whom your safety is their top priority. Explore the amazingly clear, blue waters and you may find yourself surrounded by dugongs, dolphins, or even the massive whale shark. Dahican is also famous as being a haven for the endangered sea turtle. There are protected areas on the beach set aside for them to lay their eggs.
How to get to Mati, Davao Oriental:
From Davao City, take a bus bound for Mati City at Ecoland Bus Terminal. From Mati town proper, rent a habal-habal to Dahican Beach. If you’re on a day trip, you may ask the same habal-habal driver to fetch you on your return trip (P100).
12. Sarangani Bay is Little Boracay: Gumasa Beach, Glan, Sarangani
Photo source: Habagat Central
Gumasa Beach is only one of many attractions Sarangani has to offer. The province is located in Southern Mindanao, nestled against the Celebes Sea. Enjoy the pristine white sands and make sure you stay long enough to experience the famed Sarangani sunset – an explosion of colours frame a perfectly shaped setting sun. As well as the coastlines and marine life-filled waters, there are vast mountain ranges to explore and one can even experience river tubing on the clean, fresh water of the Pangi River.
How to get to Gumasa Beach, Glan, Sarangani.
There are daily flights to General Santos City from Manila.From the airport proceed to KCC Mall and look for the van terminal for Glan, Sarangani (P80/person). When you arrive in Sarangani, hail a habal-habal going to Gumasa Beach and ask the diver to take you to the beach of your choice. Some of the beach-front accommodations there are: Rosal Beach Resort, Coco Beach Resort, and Brod Louie Resort.
13. Tawi-Tawi is Philippines’ Southernmost Frontier: Panampangan Island, Sapa Sapa
Tawi-Tawi
Photo source: Scene Stealer
Tawi-Tawi is the new dream destination for many. Over the years, this remote province in the southernmost part of the country has been secluded from the prying eyes of travelers not only because it was challenging to get there, but also because of the negative reputation it’s been tagged with which include kidnappings, beheadings and roadside boms. But thanks to the local budget carrier that now offers regular flights to Bongao, the capital town, the travel time going there was significantly cut down. As for the security concerns, it is strongly suggested that you coordinate with the local tourism office before going there so you can easily and safely roam the main town and its neighboring islands. One of the best beaches there is at Panampangan Island which is dubbed as the perfect white beach comparable to Boracay.
How to get to Tawi-Tawi:
The easiest and more convenient way to get to Bongao, Tawi-Tawi is by taking a flight from Zamboanga City.
14. Zambales’ Favorite Cove: Nagsasa Cove
Nagasasa Cove
Photo source: Adaphobic
Although this cove has been recently included in the favorite trail among many of Manila’s weekend warriors, it still has retained much of its pristine nature. Visitors are expected to bring their own tent, food and provisions. Conveniently located near Manila, its incredible beauty lures city folk out for a chance to relax and unwind. Tip: Catch the sunrise and sunset there. Oh, and the beach, enough said.
How to get to Nagsasa Cove:
Victory Liner has daily schedules bound for Iba, Zambales. Ask the conductor to drop you off at San Antonio, Zambales and from there, take a trike bound for Pundaquit. You may arrange boat rentals going to Nagsasa Cove.
15. Guimaras’ Secluded Beaches: Nagarao, Nauway, Inampulogan Islands
Nagarao Island
Photo source: The Island Explorer
Nauway Island
Photo source: Travel Bug: A Creepy-Crawly Trip
Inampulogan Island
Photo source: Discover Guimaras
Just a few minutes from the vibrant Iloilo City lies another province ideal for silent getaways. Guimaras is so tiny that it can actually be explored in just a day. But its real travel gem lies in its coasts which can be enjoyed by renting a boat. Guimaras is surrounded by secluded beaches with rock formations perfect for people who want to run away from the hustle-bustle of the nearby city. Truly, a sweet escape that is as sweet as Guimaras’ famous mangoes.
How to get to Guimaras:
Take a direct flight to Iloilo City and ride a jeepney or a taxi going to Iloilo City harbor (Ortiz Wharf), and then take a 15-minute pump boat ride going to Jordan Wharf, Guimaras.
16. A Window to the Pacific Ocean: Cagbalete Island, Mauban Quezon
Cagbalete Island
Photo source: Trek Lens
A quiet escape near Manila where the sea bed is vast on low tide, and the water is divine on high tide. Cagbalete Island is a good option for company and family getaways because it’s relatively close to Manila and the expenses are just within budget. There are resorts offering comfortable accommodation like Villa Cleofa’s, Pansacola Resort, Villa Noe Beach Resort, among others.
How to get to Cagbalete Island:
From Manila, take a bus (JAC Liner) going to Lucena City (P218), then take another bus going to Mauban, Quezon (P54). From Mauban Port (pay the P70 Environmental Fee), ride on a boat going to Cagbalete Island (P50).
Article by Jenny Aluning
