Beaches in the Philippines

1. Malamawi Island Basilan

Malamawi Island, also sometimes called Basilan Island, is about a kilometer from Isabela City, the capital of Basilan. This island is small and inhabited and it is famous for its white sandy beach along its northern coast. Thanks to its popularity, the government has developed part of the beach to create a resort complete with tourist activities and facilities. The beach themselves are amazing with powder white sand and crystal-clear water. There are some grilling stations, but visitors note that there are not commercial establishments so you should bring your own food and drinks. The focus in the resort area is more on activities than food.

Malamawi Island Basilan, Isabela City, Philippines

2. Alona Beach Bohol

Alona Beach Bohol is a tropical paradise on Panglao Island in Bohol. It is known for amazing tours, world-class diving, gorgeous blue waters, and white sand beaches. There are many hotels and resorts along the beach for those who want to stay nearby and you will find plenty of things to do while there. The beach itself covers 1.5 kilometers of white sand and as you walk along the beach, you will pass restaurants as well as hotels. While at Alona Beach, you can go diving or snorkeling to view the house reef, get a massage, relax, or just enjoy the food and/or live acoustic music.

Alona Beach Bohol, Panglao, Bohol, Philippines

3. Diniwid Beach Boracay

Some refer to Diniwid Beach Boracay as the smaller cousin of White Beach. The two beaches are right next to each other and by foot, it would take about 15 minutes to get to Station 1 from Diniwid Beach. While White Beach is hedonistic and packed, Diniwid Beach is quiet, serene, and less popular. You can enjoy one of the restaurants along the beach, some of which are very highly rated and offer champagne brunches. There are also some private villas available for rent and the beach is known for its small luxuries as well as the serenity that connects you with nature.

Diniwid Beach Boracay , Boracay, Philippines

4. Anguib Beach Cagayan

Anguib Beach is in San Vicente, Santa Ana, Cagayan, Philippines and has pristine blue waters along with white sand. There is a resort on site and you can enjoy air conditioning there when inside. When outside, you get amazing views and plenty of shoreline and nice waves. While you can find places to stay, you should plan ahead and bring food and drinks with you since there are not too many options while on Anguib Beach since it is fairly remote. The beach can get very crowded during the summer, but it is much more relaxed and less crowded during the off-season.

Anguib Beach Cagayan, Santa Ana, Cagayan, Philippines

5. Puraran Beach Catanduanes

Puraran Beach Catanduanes is known as a surfing spot by those around the world, giving visitors views of the Pacific Ocean. The beach has a stunning landscape with golden and cream sand plus clear, clean water. There are also amazing mountain views in the background plus rock formations. While the area is warm, there are strong winds that can help cool down visitors. Along the beach, you will find nipa hut cottages, perfect for changing or some quick relaxation. You can go for a dip or stroll, sunbathe, or climb some of the rock formations. Those who want to stay nearby can visit one of the two nearby resorts, which also have meals available.

Puraran Beach Catanduanes, Baras, Catanduanes, Philippines

6. Bantayan Island Cebu

Bantayan Island sits along the northern tip of Cebu, with white sand beaches and rich waters. The island sits in three different municipalities: Santa Fe, Madridejos, and Bantayan. Each is known for something special, like picturesque sunsets, a centuries-old church, or gorgeous sunrises. Getting to the island requires a bit of effort, but once you arrive, it will be well worth it for the seclusion and beauty of the island. While on the island, be sure to visit Paradise Beach, Ogtong Cave, Kota Park, Obo-ob Mangrove Eco Park, and Sts. Peter and Paul Church. You can even go skydiving while on the island.

Bantayan Island Cebu , Visayan Sea, Cebu, Philippines

7. Bounty Beach Cebu

Bounty Beach Cebu is the beach that Malapascua is known for and it is known as being one of the most gorgeous beaches in the world. There are amazing coral gardens that divers will love to view, particularly to see the manta rays and sharks feed or to view other fish. If you want to stay on the land, you will enjoy the sandy beach that feels more remote than most tourist-filled beaches. There are vendors on the beach as well as some stray dogs, which can be good or bad things depending on your view. There are also plenty of small shops, a nice small bakery, and plenty of local restaurants.

Bounty Beach, Malapascua, Cebu, Philippines

8. Dahican Beach Davao Oriental

Dahican Beach Davao Oriental covers seven kilometers of crescent-shaped open beach with powerful waves, fine sand, and tall coconut trees. This beach is a popular destination for anyone who enjoys beaches, as well as skim boarders and surfers. The local government aims to protect the area as it serves as a sea turtle sanctuary as well. You will find plenty of resorts by the shore, with your choice of rooms, tents, or cottages, including open-air cottages. There are also plenty of restaurants and great opportunities to surf. The beach is also dog-friendly for those traveling with a canine companion. Just keep in mind that this beach can get more crowded than it used to, especially during the high season.

Dahican Beach Davao Oriental, Mati, Davao Oriental, Philippines

9. Bolobadiangan Island Iloilo

Bolobadiangan Island is in Iloilo, the province known for the Dinagyang Festival as well as ancient Spanish churches. The island is within Concepcion, about two or three hours from Iloilo City and home to a total of 16 islands. Bolobadiangan Island is also sometimes called Sandbar Island. It will usually have a fair number of visitors, but you should still make a point to visit due to the tempting blue waters and white sand, the sandbar that moves slightly based on the wind, amazing views of other Concepcion islands, and plenty of marine life, making it perfect for snorkeling. The island is also small enough to go around completely in just an hour so you don’t miss out on anything.

Bolobadiangan Island Iloilo , Concepcion, Iloilo, Philippines

10. Illustrated Map of the Philippines

More beaches you can explore with this Illustrated Map of the Philippines.