Philippines
The Philippines is an archipelago of 7,641 islands, and while nobody can visit them all, even a handful will convince you that this is one of the most beautiful countries on the planet. Palawan alone, with its emerald lagoons, limestone karst towers, and crystal clear water, has been voted the best island in the world multiple times by readers of Travel + Leisure and Conde Nast Traveler. And that is just one island out of thousands.
What sets the Philippines apart from other Southeast Asian beach destinations is the people. Filipinos are famously warm, generous, and English speaking, which makes navigating the country remarkably easy for American travelers. The culture is a unique blend of Malay, Spanish, American, and Chinese influences, and it shows up in the food, the festivals, the architecture, and the everyday interactions that make travel here so enjoyable.
Where to Go
El Nido on the northern tip of Palawan is the jewel of the Philippines. Island hopping tours take you through a series of lagoons, hidden beaches, and snorkeling spots that look like they were invented for Instagram. Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon are the highlights, with limestone walls rising from impossibly clear water. Coron, further north, adds stunning World War II wreck diving to the mix, with Japanese ships sunk in the shallow bays clearly visible even from the surface.
Boracay is the party island with substance. White Beach, a four kilometer stretch of powder fine sand, is the main attraction. The sunsets here are legendary, and the beachfront bars and restaurants create a social, festive atmosphere. For quieter beaches, Puka Shell Beach on the north end is less developed and more relaxed.
Siargao has emerged as the surfing capital of the Philippines, with Cloud 9 wave drawing surfers from around the world. Even if you do not surf, the island has a laid back, bohemian atmosphere with excellent restaurants, natural rock pools, and island hopping to nearby islets with some of the clearest water you will ever see.
Bohol offers something different: the Chocolate Hills, a geological formation of over 1,200 uniform conical hills that turn brown in dry season, and the Philippine tarsier, one of the smallest primates in the world, with enormous eyes that make it look perpetually startled.
Where to Stay
El Nido Resorts operates four island properties in the Palawan area, ranging from eco luxury to barefoot elegance, each on its own private stretch of coastline. Amanpulo on Pamalican Island is one of the most exclusive resorts in Asia, accessible only by private plane. On Boracay, the Shangri La Boracay offers five star luxury away from the busiest stretch of White Beach. For a more boutique experience, the Funny Lion in Coron is a stylish waterfront property with stunning views.
Let Us Plan Your Philippines Trip
The Philippines is best experienced as an island hopping itinerary, and the logistics of domestic flights, boat transfers, and hotel availability require advance planning. We will design a route that matches your travel style, connecting the best islands with the right transportation so you spend your time in paradise rather than in transit.
