Beautiful Philippine Islands That Are Accessible from Manila Chris Caggiano September 9, 2024 Beach Vacations, general, Philippines Manila is a bustling metropolis filled with cultural attractions, historical landmarks, and exciting city life. But for those craving a more relaxed island experience, the Philippines offers an incredible array of island destinations just a short journey from the capital. Whether you’re planning a day trip or looking to extend your Philippine adventure, these picturesque islands are easily accessible from Manila and perfect for exploring white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush natural landscapes. From world-renowned surf spots to serene getaways, the options for island-hopping are endless. Coron, Busuanga island, Palawan province, Philippines Palawan Distance from Manila: 410–450 miles (660–725 km) Travel time from Manila: Direct flights to El Nido or Coron take about 1 hour 15 minutes. Ferry or boat transfers between nearby islands take several hours. Often considered the “last frontier” of the Philippines, Palawan is renowned for its pristine natural beauty. The island boasts a stunning mix of crystal-clear lagoons, limestone cliffs, and white-sand beaches. El Nido, in the northern part of Palawan, is famous for its dramatic rock formations and hidden beaches, which are best explored by island-hopping tours. Coron, another jewel of Palawan, is celebrated for its turquoise lakes and shipwreck dive sites, making it a diver’s paradise. For those interested in more than just water activities, Palawan offers hiking opportunities through lush jungles and visits to the UNESCO-listed Puerto Princesa Subterranean River, one of the longest underground rivers in the world. Daku Island, Siargao, Philippines Siargao Distance from Manila: 470 miles (760 km) Travel time from Manila: A direct flight to Siargao takes about 2 hours. Ferry or transfers may be required if you’re visiting nearby areas on the island. Siargao has earned a reputation as the Philippines’ premier surfing destination, with its famous Cloud 9 surf break drawing surfers from around the world. But even if you’re not into surfing, Siargao is dotted with white-sand beaches, clear lagoons, and palm-fringed roads perfect for scenic drives or bike rides. Sugba Lagoon, a peaceful spot surrounded by lush greenery, is ideal for paddleboarding and swimming. For adventurers, the Magpupungko Rock Pools are a must-see. These tidal pools, exposed during low tide, allow for a natural swimming experience amid beautiful rock formations. Island-hopping from Siargao is also popular, with smaller islands like Naked Island, Daku Island, and Guyam Island providing idyllic spots for a day of beach-hopping. Chocolate Hills, Bohol Island, Philippines Bohol Distance from Manila: 390 miles (630 km) Travel time from Manila: Direct flights to Tagbilaran, Bohol’s main city, take about 1 hour 30 minutes. Panglao Island, the primary beach destination, is a short 30-minute drive from the airport. Bohol is most famous for its iconic Chocolate Hills, a unique geological formation of over 1,200 cone-shaped hills that turn brown during the dry season, resembling rows of chocolate mounds. These hills are a must-see for any visitor, but Bohol offers much more. The nearby Panglao Island boasts beautiful white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and world-class dive sites. Divers and snorkelers flock to Bohol for opportunities to see colorful coral reefs, sea turtles, and abundant marine life. Bohol is also home to the endangered Philippine tarsier, one of the smallest primates in the world. You can visit tarsier sanctuaries to see these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat. Dolphin-watching tours and river cruises on the Loboc River provide a relaxing way to enjoy Bohol’s natural beauty. Willy’s Rock, Boracay, Philippines Borocay Distance from Manila: 190 miles (310 km) Travel time from Manila: Flights to Caticlan, the nearest airport, take about 1 hour. From Caticlan, a short 15-minute ferry ride will bring you to Boracay. Famed for its powdery white sand and vibrant beach culture, Boracay is one of the most popular island destinations in the Philippines. The island’s crown jewel is White Beach, a 4-kilometer stretch of pristine shoreline where visitors can sunbathe, swim, or enjoy a range of water sports, including parasailing, windsurfing, and paddleboarding. As the sun sets, Boracay’s nightlife comes alive with beachfront bars, restaurants, and parties, making it a hotspot for socializing and fun. For those looking for quieter escapes, the island also offers more secluded beaches like Puka Shell Beach, where you can relax away from the crowds. Boracay’s Willy’s Rock, a natural rock formation in the water, is another must-see attraction. Snorkeling, diving, and boat trips around the island add even more adventure to your stay. Tuasan Falls, Camiguin Island, Philippines Camiguin Distance from Manila: 470 miles (750 km) Travel time from Manila: There are no direct flights to Camiguin. The easiest route is a 1.5-hour flight to Cagayan de Oro, followed by a 2-hour ferry ride to the island. Camiguin, often overlooked by tourists, is a serene and naturally beautiful island perfect for travelers looking for tranquility. Known as the “Island Born of Fire” due to its seven volcanoes, Camiguin offers a striking volcanic landscape alongside lush forests and scenic waterfalls. The towering Mount Hibok-Hibok is a challenge for hikers, while Katibawasan Falls and Tuasan Falls provide refreshing spots for swimming and exploring nature. In addition to its volcanic appeal, Camiguin features the Sunken Cemetery, marked by a large cross that sits above an underwater burial site submerged by a volcanic eruption in the 19th century. The island’s White Island, a picturesque sandbar, is a perfect spot for a day of sunbathing and snorkeling. Camiguin also features numerous hot and cold springs, including Ardent Hot Springs and Soda Water Springs. “Sardine Run,” Moalboal, Cebu Island, Philippines Cebu Distance from Manila: 350 miles (560 km) Travel time from Manila: Direct flights to Cebu City take about 1 hour 15 minutes. From there, different parts of the island can be reached by car or ferry, depending on your destination. Cebu is a diverse island that combines long history with natural beauty. One of the island’s highlights is Kawasan Falls, known for its stunning turquoise waters. Here you can swim, trek, or try the popular activity of canyoneering. For divers, the nearby town of Moalboal offers world-class diving, including the famous sardine run, where millions of sardines move in mesmerizing formations just off the coast. Another must-see is Oslob, where visitors can swim alongside gentle whale sharks, making for an unforgettable underwater experience. Cebu’s cultural heritage is equally impressive. Magellan’s Cross and the Basilica del Santo Niño are significant historical landmarks in Cebu City, where the Spanish first landed in the Philippines. These sites mark the beginning of Christianity in the country and are central to Cebu’s annual Sinulog Festival, which celebrates this pivotal moment in Philippine history. You Might Also Enjoy: Manila Travel Brief: What to Know Before You Go Marlboro Hills, Batanes, Philippines Batanes Distance from Manila: 420 miles (675 km) Travel time from Manila: Flights to Basco, Batanes take about 1 hour 45 minutes, though due to weather conditions, flights can sometimes be delayed, so flexibility is advised. Batanes, the northernmost province of the Philippines, offers a landscape unlike any other in the country. Known for its rolling hills, dramatic cliffs, and traditional stone houses, Batanes feels worlds away from the bustling city life of Manila. The province’s isolation and remote location have helped preserve its unique Ivatan culture, making it a fascinating destination for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience. The island group is perfect for nature lovers, with picturesque views of rugged coastlines and green meadows that stretch out to the sea. Popular spots include Marlboro Hills and Vayang Rolling Hills, both offering panoramic views of the surrounding islands. Sabtang Island and its traditional stone houses are also a must-visit, providing a glimpse into the centuries-old way of life of the Ivatan people. With its peaceful atmosphere, stunning landscapes, and rich culture, Batanes is ideal for travelers looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in the raw beauty of the Philippines. FAQs: Q: What is the best time of year to visit the islands mentioned? A: The best time to visit these islands is during the dry season, which typically runs from November to May. This period offers sunny weather and calm seas, making it ideal for beach activities, island-hopping, and outdoor adventures. Q: Do I need a visa to travel to these islands from Manila? A: If you are a foreign tourist staying in the Philippines for less than 30 days, most nationalities don’t need a visa. If you’re already in Manila, no additional visa is required to travel to these islands. Q: Can I rent a car or scooter on these islands? A: Yes, on most islands, especially in tourist-friendly areas like Palawan, Siargao, and Cebu, you can rent scooters, motorbikes, or cars. It’s advisable to rent from established agencies, and ensure you have a valid driver’s license. Q: Are there ATMs on these islands? A: Major islands like Cebu and Bohol have plenty of ATMs, but smaller islands like Siargao, Camiguin, and Batanes may have limited access to ATMs. It’s a good idea to bring enough cash when visiting remote locations. Q: What kind of accommodations can I expect? A: Accommodations range from budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses to mid-range hotels and luxury resorts. In more popular destinations like Boracay and Palawan, you’ll find a wider variety of options, while remote places like Batanes offer simpler lodging. Q: Do I need to bring my own snorkeling or diving gear? A: Most popular islands offer snorkeling and diving tours that provide gear as part of the package. However, if you prefer using your own equipment, you’re welcome to bring it along. It’s a good idea for hygiene reasons. Have you been to any of these Philippine Islands? Tell us about it in the comments below!
