17 Best Beaches in The Philippines — Top Public Beach Spots!

Pure white sandscenic waterviewand top-tier cleanliness are words that describe the Philippines’ beautiful beaches.

Thanks to its archipelagic topographyhundreds of coastal spots are available to satisfy locals and tourists.

My family visits the Philippines frequently to experience their pristine beaches.

ButI believe choosing a suitable beach as a first-timer will be challenging because of its numerous options.

Trust mefor I’ve been there.

And that’s why I want to help you overcome this problem as a writer and traveler by listing the best beaches in the Philippines.

With my experience exploring Philippine beachesI’m equipped with valuable insights to write reviews and a guide.

And these insights I have will be used to give you a chance to experience Philippine beaches.

And for your referenceI ranked their beaches based on their family-friendlinesssafetyamenitieswater qualityand accessibility.

Read until the endand enjoy a pleasurable dose of vitamin sea while visiting the Philippines.

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Best Beaches In The Philippines Compared

With its numerous dazzling beachesyou can expect the Philippines to offer satisfaction beyond the norms.

Here are the top 17 beaches in The Philippines.

1. El Nido — Palawan (Editor’s Choice)

El NidoPalawan 5313
LuzonPhilippines
+63 (919) 002 1339
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Located in the famous province of PalawanEl Nido routinely makes it to the top of the prettiest beaches in the worldearning for itself the nickname Heaven on Earth.

Ratings Criteria

• Family-Friendliness: 5/5
• Safety: 5/5
• Amenities: 4/5 
• Water Quality: 5/5 
• Accessibility: 4/5

Pros

• A scenic view that captivates one’s eyes
• Clean and pure blue water

Cons

• Reaching it requires lots of effort

Why We Recommend This Beach

Surrounded by ancient limestone cliffsthe beaches and islands at El Nido resemble a secret adventurebut in realitythis paradise is a world-renowned escape.

Apart from being home to the country’s most diverse flora and faunaEl Nido also boasts striking white sand beaches fronting cyan waters.

Expert Tip

El Nido is known as the gateway to an archipelago of 45 isletsso why not go an island hopping excursion to explore as many as you can?

These tours will take you to lagoonsshrinesbeachescavesand historical attractions!

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Seda Lio

2. Malapascua Island — Cebu

Malapascua Island
DaanbantayanCebu 6013
VisayasPhilippines
+63 (032) 437-8170
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Malapascua sits on the Visayan Sea north of the island of Cebu and gained massive popularity for its pristine watersincredibly white sandand outstanding dive spots.

Ratings Criteria

• Family-Friendliness: 4/5
• Safety: 5/5
• Amenities: 4/5 
• Water Quality: 5/5 
• Accessibility: 4/5

Pros

• Pure white sand’s presence
• Outstanding dive spots

Cons

• As a pint-sized islandnot many can have access to this place

Why We Recommend This Beach

For a pint-sized islandMalapascua packs dreamy natural scenery and rich marine life.

It’s particularly famous for its thresher sharkscoral reefsand fine sandy baysall of which you can explore in a single day if you want.

Expert Tip

Monad Shoal is Malapascua Island’s top diving sitethe only spot in the world where thresher sharks are regularly seen around sunrise.

If you want to lengthen your stay in this mini paradiseMalapascua offers an excellent choice of hotels and guesthouses too.

Make the most out of this tropical wonder!

Recommended Hotel Nearby: AABANA Beach&Watersport Resort

3. Southern Negros — Negros Oriental

Negros Oriental
VisayasPhilippines
+63 (038) 502-8580
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Located right next to CebuNegros Island is the fourth largest island in the country.

The island was originally called Buglas by its nativesbut Spaniards renamed it after meeting the dark-skinned Ati natives.

Ratings Criteria

• Family-Friendliness: 4/5
• Safety: 4/5
• Amenities: 4/5 
• Water Quality: 5/5 
• Accessibility: 4/5

Pros

• The island is super spacious
• Endless adventures await you

Cons

• Reaching it requires time

Why We Recommend This Beach

Southern Negros belongs to the island’s eastern territoryNegros Orientalwhich is chock-full of world-class Filipino beaches.

Endless adventures await you here: from a sugar white sand beach and floating hills at Sipalaycoral gardens and turtles at Apo Islandto friendly witches and folklore-rich beaches at Siquijor.

Expert Tip

Glamping (glamorous camping) is an emerging Instagrammable trendand some of the best glamping sites in the country are in Southern Negros!

Even the magical island of Siquijor has one.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Easy Diving and Beach Resort

Also See:
Thailand Beaches
Beaches in Vietnam
Best Beaches in Australia

4. Panglao Island — Bohol

Panglao IslandBohol 6340
VisayasPhilippines
+63 (038) 502-8580
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Despite its sizethe island of Panglao has been recognized by various Asian cultures since ancient times.

Today its fame lives on as a popular tourist hub for having some of the best beach spots in the Philippines.

Why We Recommend This Beach

With its rustic resortscoconut treeswhite sandand clean waterPanglao Island — Bohol is a good alternative for Malapascua Island — Cebu and Southern Negros — Negros Oriental.

Dotted with a wealth of rustic resortscoconut treeshammocksand local cottagesPanglao Island is well recognized for its divine coastline.

Beach bums don’t need a towel or a pair of flip-flops when lounging on the beach.

You won’t believe how clean and soft the sand here is!

Best of allPanglao Island’s neighboring islands protect the beaches here from the crazy waves of the Pacific.

There are no rip tides at all!

Wherever you goPanglao offers you the safest beach for kids.

Expert Tip

Wanderers come to Panglao for the beaches and head straight to Bohol for some of the best things to do in the Philippines!

See the world-famous Man-Made Forestthe second smallest primate in the worldChocolate Hillsthe floating restaurantthe hanging bridgeand so much more!

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Bellevue Resort

5. Boracay — Aklan

MalayAklan 5608
VisayasPhilippines
+63 (036) 268-5338
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Yet another world-class Visayan islandBoracay has long been touted by international magazines as one of the best islands in the entire worldlonger than Palawan has been recognized.

Why We Recommend This Beach

Boracay Island’s blinding white sandtempting turquoise watersand heart-pounding beach activities have been luring millions of tourists every year for generations.

From horseback ridingscuba divinghelmet divingand snorkeling to windsurfingkiteboardingcliff divingand parasailingBoracay continues to entertain thousands of beachgoers daily.

Expert Tip

Whichever beach you’re atstay for the sunset!

Boracay’s sky and sea create a landscape akin to Impressionist paintings.

After thatBoracay turns into a different playground at night.

Native-themed bars and clubs with native-themed drinks come alive in the dark!

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Shangri-La’s Boracay Resort and Spa

6. Pagudpud — Ilocos Norte

PagudpudIlocos Norte 2919
LuzonPhilippines
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Pagudpud sits somewhere on the northern tip of the countrytaking hours and miles of lush tropical greeneryhillsvalleys to reach.

Why We Recommend This Beach

It is no doubt that Pagudpud is solely for the adventurousbut the long trip rewards you with a dazzlingvirginal shoreline that seems to go on forever.

Native-themed resorts and windmills populate the municipalityadding an idyllic Filipino charm that makes it hard to leave.

Expert Tip

Pagudpud faces the open seaso expect robust winds from time to time.

If you’re a surfercome here from July to September for amazing waves.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Alta Vista Ilocandia Inc.

7. White Island — Camiguin

MambajaoCamiguin 9100
MindanaoPhilippines
+63 (995) 566 7440
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The uninhabited White Island is actually a sandbar on the volcanic island of Camiguin.

During the low tidethe sandbar emerges as a partially submerged island.

Why We Recommend This Beach

The view from White Island resembles a heavenly pathway to the volcano domain of deitiesfrom the Filipino animist perspective.

Free from infrastructureWhite Island remains pristinewith views as legendary as its folklores.

Expert Tip

Come here at dawn to witness the otherworldly sunrise!

White Island’s water comes alive in the light like a mirrorand the dark disperses to make way for the volcanoes in the distance.

Outdoor enthusiasts can also hike up the trails to Mount Hibok-Hibokthe most popular volcanowhich lead to hot springs well loved by locals.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Bintana Sa Paraiso

Also See:
Beaches in Japan
Nearest Beach to Tokyo
India Beaches

8. Coron — Palawan

CoronPalawan 5316
LuzonPhilippines
+63 (048) 716-2332
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Yet another Palawan wonder that routinely makes it to the top beaches and islands in the entire worldCoron is listed in the natural category of the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List.

Why We Recommend This Beach

Imagine limestone karst formationscoral reefsislets and inletshot springsWorld War II shipwrecksand transparent blue waters.

Time blurs into an illusion in a paradise like Coron.

It’s no wonder why it’s one of the most popular beaches in the Philippines.

Expert Tip

Coron Island presents you an islet-to-islet adventure whenever you want via boats.

Marine parkssnorkeling and diving sitesmajestic lagoonshot springsand mountain trails are waiting to be discovered!

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Two Seasons Coron Bayside Hotel

9. Siargao — Surigao del Norte

SiargaoSurigao del Norte 8416-8424
MindanaoPhilippines
+63 (086) 826-9017
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Known as the Surfing Capital of the PhilippinesSiargao flaunts great waves and swells any time of year.

Why We Recommend This Beach

Uninterrupted winds and currents from the Pacific Ocean create Siargao’s popular wavesand the monsoon season enhances the thrill.

Howeverif surfing isn’t your thing

Siargao also has a handful of calmer beaches for beach bumming.

Expert Tip

General Luna Beach tops all the surf spots in Siargaowith a reputation among local and international surfers because of its surfing competitions.

For beach bumshead over to Alegria BeachDoot Beachor Naked Island.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Siargao Island Villas

Related: Resort Cities In The Philippines

10. Baler — Aurora

BalerAurora 3200
LuzonPhilippines
+63 (999) 993-6874
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If you want to stay closer to the capitalthe beachside town of Baler is a five-hour drive from Manila.

Why We Recommend This Beach

The municipality of Baler is the capital of the province of Aurora and is another popular surfing spotbut minus the crowds in Siargao.

Unspoiled and underratedBaler offers both sensational waves and serene natural areas.

So whether you’re here for the thrill or to chillBaler has something for you.

Expert Tip

Waves as high as 14 feet dominate Sabang Beachso expect intermediate surfers hanging out here.

Those looking for seclusion and Instagrammable spots can take a trip to Diguisit Beach and Dicasalarin Cove.

Baler is also home to the biggest balete tree in Asia and grand waterfalls. You might wanna check those out too.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: L’Sirene Boutique Resort

11. Bantayan Island

Bantayan IslandCebu 6052
VisayasPhilippines
+63 (999) 674 1434
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Mostly covered with coconut treesBantayan Island is a little paradise off the northwest coast of Cebu.

Why We Recommend This Beach

We’re confident to pit Bantayan against Boracay.

With lesser crowds and establishmentsBantayan’s beaches guarantee the ultimate island vibe.

Resorts prefer the indigenous cottagesand the sand here is so fine it melts between your fingers.

Expert Tip

Kota Beach and Sugar Beach are the top beaches on the islandeach boasting native charm.

After a fun-filled beach dayyou can go explore the island’s mangrove gardenaesthetic caféssaltwater lagoonruinsand so much more!

We swear you’d want to extend your stay.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Anika Island Resort

12. Palaui Island — Cagayan

Santa AnaCagayan Valley 3514
LuzonPhilippines
+63 (078) 304-1673
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Home to Ati nativesPalaui Island is an award-winning protected area situated off the northeastern tip of Luzon.

The island was featured in the American reality show “Survivor”.

Why We Recommend This Beach

Volcanic debrisrolling hillsand untamed tropical greenery embrace the rarely touched beach of Palaui Island.

Because of the native landscapes and native populationthe colonial lighthouse feels out of place.

Sticking outhowevermeans it attracts curiosity.

Expert Tip

Don’t skip visiting the lighthouse!

The trail up here is an adventure in itselfand the views at the highest point of the lighthouse are the best.

If you want to stay on the islandthe Ati’s village has a campsite.

Bring your own necessities as the local government forbids anything commercial on this island.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Lugano Bed and Breakfast

13. Caramoan Islands — Camarines Sur

CaramoanCamarines Sur 4429
LuzonPhilippines
+63 (920) 967 2942
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Dubbed as the Emerging Paradise of the PacificCaramoan is composed of 10 islets rich in flora and fauna.

Like PalauiCaramoan was also a filming location for “Survivor”.

Why We Recommend This Beach

Boasting 4,000 hectares of limestone forests and stretches of white sand beachestranquil lakescavescovesand abundant marine lifeCaramoan deserves more recognition.

Ocean adventures like kayakingsnorkelingdivingtrekkinghikingand more make this destination a worthwhile escape.

Expert Tip

While Caramoan’s islands all deserve attentionGota Island has this cute cabin village worth the mention.

If you’re looking forward to more than a day’s worth of nature explorationyou can rent a cabin here or camp on other beaches.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Magindara Guesthouse

Related: Best Beaches in Japan

14. Talikud Island — Davao del Norte

SamalDavao del Norte 8119
MindanaoPhilippines
+63 (084) 655 9415
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Lesser known but just as beautifulTalikud Island is a little island tucked right behind Samal.

Why We Recommend This Beach

There is barely a wave that forms on the sun-kissed beaches of Talikud Islandmaking it possibly the best beach for swimming in the Philippines.

Not only is Talikud an excellent spot for swimming; there’s a 150-hectare coral garden in its underwater world too!

Expert Tip

If you have all the time in the world for this tripyou can book introductory diving lessons to explore the stunning dive sites in the areasuch as Angel’s CoveMansud Walland the Coral Gardens.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hof Gorei Beach Resort Davao

15. Oslob — Cebu

OslobCebu 6025
VisayasPhilippines
+63 (032) 888 2328
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The municipality of Oslob sits near the southernmost tip of the island of Cebu and is known for the whale sharks populating their waters.

Why We Recommend This Beach

Previously fearedthe whale sharks at Oslob proved their friendlygentle nature as the municipality began to open the beach at Tan-awan for swimming.

But Oslob is more than just their whale sharks. Explore the Spanish ruinsmajestic fallsand nearby Sumilon Island when you come over.

Expert Tip

The provincial government of Cebu is strict about their rules on swimming with whale sharksbut it’s for the best.

Bring your own snorkeling equipment and do not touch the whale sharks.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Down South 118 Beach Resort

16. Grande Santa Cruz Island — Zamboanga

Sta. Cruz IslandZamboanga City 7000
MindanaoPhilippines
+63 (632) 870-1000
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Great Santa Cruz is famous worldwide for being home to one of the rare pink sand beaches in Asia.

Why We Recommend This Beach

Thanks to red organ pipe coralsthe white sand beaches at Great Santa Cruz turn pink from red bits that wash ashore.

But pink sandstingless jellyfishstingless “sting” raysand fruit bats?

Great Santa Cruz assures you a strangely beautiful wonderland surrounded by nature.

Expert Tip

Come here early!

The local government closes the beach at 2 PM as the waters get really rough beyond these hours.

Don’t miss the lagoon tours to experience touching the harmless jellyfish and stingrays.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: W Hotel

17. Islas de Gigantes — Iloilo

Islas de Gigantes SurIloilo 5019
VisayasPhilippines
+63 (920) 415 4841
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Formerly called Sabuluagthe island chain of Islas de Gigantes was renamed by the Spaniards who found gigantic sets of human bones on the island.

Why We Recommend This Beach

Only a few wanderers have ventured to the Islands of Giants north of Iloilobut those who dared were rewarded by some of the best beaches in the Philippines teeming with unspoiled shorelinessecret lagoonsthriving marine lifeand extraordinary geological formations.

Expert Tip

Book an island hopping tour to squeeze in as many nice beaches here as you can.

If you’re wondering where the secluded lagoons arethey’re at Tangke.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Se San Beach Resort-Isla de Gigantes

Related: Best Hotels in The Philippines

Beachgoer Guide

Comparing Beaches: Which One Is Right For You?

When visiting the Philippines for its beachesI highly suggest you thoroughly compare your options.

In my casemy goal was to have a great time while keeping in mind my budget.

HereI laid out some details for you to assess and scan each beach’s benefitsfeaturesand drawbacks.

Andof coursethe most essential factor would be your preferences.

El Nido — Palawan is known worldwideso I had to take extra measures to book and prepare my family’s itinerary.

El Nido’s demand is high and gets crowded during peak months. 

But it was worth it. 

The moment I laid eyes on its scenic views and crystal clear watermy worries vanishedand no words could describe its beauty.

If you love diving and snorkelingMalapascua Island in Cebu is your best bet.

Even from the boat we rentedwe were amazed by its rich marine life and the dreamy underwater scenery.

Its downside would be its small-to-medium area. 

There’s a limit to who can enter this beautiful beach.

Southern Negros — Negros Oriental left me in awe with its vivid coral gardensturtle-watching toursfloating hillsand deep folklore.

Expect to have a long ride to reach this place.

Panglao Island-Bohol is an excellent alternative if you want a beach packed with establishments and natural assets combined.

The only problem it has is its needing access to transportation.

How I Picked The Beach Spots 

The Philippines is a long way from home. 

And that’s why I conducted thorough research by reading and reviewing travel sites and their tourism catalogs for trendsupdatesand insights.

Most of the locals and tourists I met  there said that it lives up to its tourism catchphrase: “It’s more fun in the Philippines.”

And I completely agree.

As a seasoned writer and traveler who has visited the Philippines in recent yearsI am confident enough to pick and write about its top beach spots.

The places reviewed in this list are rated based on my personal experiences and insights from other travelers. 

Our Beach Rating Method

I rate these beaches based on the following criteria:

• Family-Friendliness: I use this to evaluate if the beach is ideal for families with children. Does the beach offer kid-friendly activities and playgrounds? Does the beach have shallow waters and gentle waves? I ask myself these questions when I rate the family-friendliness criterion. 
• Safety: This is used to assess the safety of every beach destination. Are there lifeguards manning the beach? Does it have safety equipment? What are the other safety measures at the beach? I consider these factors when evaluating the safety of every beach. 
• Amenities: I use it to evaluate the quality and availability of facilities on every beach.  Is it equipped with restroomsshowersand changing rooms? Does it have ample parking? These questions are important whenever I rate the amenities of each beach. 
• Water Quality: This evaluates the cleanliness and clarity of the water at the beach. Are there algae in the water? Is the water safe and clean enough for swimming and other activities? I ask myself these questions in order to rate the beach’s water quality. 
• Accessibility: This measures how accessible the beach is for visitors. How far is it from the major cities? Is it easily accessible by public transportation? Is the beach wheelchair accessible? I use these questions to evaluate the accessibility of every beach. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is The Nicest Beach In The Philippines?

The nicest beach in the Philippines is El Nido — Palawan.

What Is The Clearest Beach In The Philippines?

The clearest beach in the Philippines is in is El Nido in Palawan. With its mesmerizing turquoise watersEl Nido offers visitors a stunning and unparalleled visual experiencemaking it a top choice for those seeking the clearest beach in the country.

Conclusion

If you want to soothe your bodysouland mind and get lost in nature’s glorythe Philippines is the ideal place to visit.

And the best beaches in the Philippines have something to offer that you will surely fall formay it be for its featuresperksor benefits.

My family had a great time in Malapascua Island — Cebuas we fully utilized and enjoyed their great diving spots.

I always highly encourage choosing Malapascua Island — Cebu for everyone who loves to swim and do some free diving.

Southern Negros — Negros Oriental was the place my kids enjoyed the mostthanks to its endless “thing to do,” while Panglao Island — Bohol was something I adored for its contemporary and natural ambiance.

But among manythe best beach in the Philippines still falls to El Nido — Palawan.

We rented a boat and explored the waters in El Nido. 

We were amazed by the majestic cliffs and the clear waterswhere we spotted colorful marine life.

Trust methis one is a paradise on Earth.