10 Best Beaches in The Philippines You Must To Go in 2025
Posted by Maris on 10th Feb 2025
With thousands of kilometers of coastline and a year-round tropical environment, it's no surprise that the Philippines is regarded as one of the top beach destinations in the world. Some beaches are already well-known on the worldwide vacation scene, while others remain beneath the tourist radar.
This Asian country is frequently disregarded due to its inconvenient location, yet true beach lovers should not hesitate to pack their bags and sink their toes in Philippine sand.
So, if you wish to relax on powdered beaches and watch spectacular sunsets on this island state, check out our choices below. Here are the top ten beaches to visit in the Philippines.
1. Onok Island Beach in Balabac, Palawan.
The Balabac island group is rarely visited, owing to its remote location and poor access. Those who are prepared to make the long journey by bus and boat from mainland Palawan will be treated to a beach experience reminiscent of the Maldives.
Few beaches in the Philippines and overseas can match the pristine beach of Onok Island, one of Balabac's smaller isles. The wooden houses on stilts, floating sea turtles in the clear water, attractive palm palms, and silky soft sand make this an ideal place to relax.
If you want to stay in paradise a bit longer, Onok Island has a few basic accommodations. Balabac has many pristine islands, and boatmen may take you to beaches that are nearly as lovely as Onok Island's.
2. White Beach in Boracay, Aklan.
Boracay has been a popular tourist destination for many years. This would be primarily owing to the perfect sand, vibrant nightlife, and luxurious lodgings. Following excessive partying and pollution, the government decided to 'shut' the island in 2018 for a 6-month clean-up period. This cleanse has restored Boracay's beauty, particularly White Beach, which now lives up to its reputation like never before.
In addition to its natural beauty, White Beach offers a variety of facilities and activities. You can do jetskiing, sailing, and scuba diving, and the strip behind the beach is lined with restaurants and bars.
3. Nacpan Beach (El Nido, Palawan)
Palawan tops our list twice for good reason: this southwestern province has perfect shorelines, and Nacpan Beach is no exception. Palm trees stretch into the sky on this half-moon-shaped beach. There's no better way to appreciate Nacpan Beach than to sip on fresh coconut juice and take in the sights of fishing boats and the azure Pacific Ocean. Shelters with grassy rooftops provide a place to relax and escape the afternoon heat.
You can rent a kayak here to observe the shore from a new angle, or climb the limestone hill to witness the beautiful shape of the beach and the colors of the water.
4. Duyong Beach, Pandan, Antique.
Many visitors to Panay head straight for the well-known island of Boracay, but Panay has much more to offer beachgoers. Antique Province is home to lush woods, waterfalls, and, most importantly, a plethora of stunning beaches.
Duyong Beach is a near-perfect coastline, with views of Culasi Island and the Panay mountain range further inland. Aside from Filipino visitors and residents, you won't find a crowd here.
Duyong Beach, which faces west, is also a great place to watch the sun set.
5. Kalanggaman Island, Leyte.
From above, Kalanggaman Island appears as a little strip of sand surrounded by wooden fishing boats, coral reefs, and clear water. Located between Cebu and Leyte, this atoll is difficult to reach yet well worth the trip. This refuge is nothing more than a sandbar dotted with coconut palm trees.
Diving expeditions can be planned from Leyte or Malapascua Island in Cebu due to the abundance of marine life on the island's reefs. Snorkelling is also possible due to the lower depths at which corals and fish live. Swimming is safe everywhere except in the narrow part of the sandbar, where strong currents exist.
6. Cabugao Gamay — Iloilo, Panay
Isla de Gigantes is centrally placed within the Visayas island group, and it appears that life here moves at a slower pace than elsewhere. Although Cabugao Gamay translates as "small pomelo," the coconut is undoubtedly the trademark fruit here. This tiny group of islands stands out for its grey limestone rocks and emerald green sea, which contrast well with the deep blue skies.
7. Mahabang Buhangin Beach in Camarines Norte, Luzon.
Although Mahabang Buhangin Beach lacked the fine white sand found elsewhere, it did not go ignored by beachgoers. It is located on the island of Calaguas, which is known for its beautiful volcanic rocks and undulating hills.
An incredible aspect is that camping on the beach is permitted, and it only costs 2 GBP to set up a tent. The calming rhythm of the waves and the sunsets across mainland Luzon are clearly included in the price.
8. Pagudpud Blue Lagoon — Ilocos Norte, Luzon
Luzon, the Philippines' largest island, is well-known for its mountains and culture, but it also features beaches to rival those in the Visayas and Palawan. Pagudpud, on the northern tip of Luzon, features some picturesque oceanfronts, including the Blue Lagoon, which distinguishes out for its adorable nipa cottages and distant mountain views.
Don't anticipate quiet water to swim in; waves can be big, making Pagudpud a popular surfing destination, especially during the monsoon season, which runs from April to January.
9. Davao del Norte, Mindanao.
It's hard to think Samal Island is only a short boat journey from Mindanao's main city, Davao. Peace, a clear blue ocean, and comfy resorts make for a welcome escape from the city and beyond. If you want to stay near the beach in magnificent accommodations, Samal Island with its brilliant beachfront resorts may be one of the greatest options in the Philippines.
Samal Island's rich flora provides ample cover, and the fine white sand rapidly establishes it as one of Mindanao's greatest beach locations.
10. Chamantad Cove in Sabtang, Batanes.
This secret inlet in the Batanes archipelago demonstrates that not all wonderful beaches feature waving palm trees and sand that seeps beneath your boots. From the vantage point above the beach, you can see the jagged cliffs, wild grazing cows, and waves slamming on the coast in the deep. This is not what vacation brochures show, but it is worth flying to the Philippines' northernmost frontier for.
This area is ideal for trekking because Sabtang's coastline features more cliffs, undulating hills, and trails leading to breathtaking views.