The Philippines: Island Paradise
The Philippine archipelago, with its 7,641 islands, offers some of the world’s most stunning beaches, clearest waters, and friendliest people. Island hopping here is not just a tourist activity—it’s the best way to experience the country’s natural beauty.
Best Island Hopping Routes
Route 1: Palawan – El Nido to Coron (5-7 days)
- Day 1-2: El Nido Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, Secret Lagoon
- Day 3: Nacpan Beach, Las Cabanas Beach
- Day 4: Ferry to Coron (4-5 hours)
- Day 5-6: Coron Island tours, Twin Lagoon, Kayangan Lake
- Day 7: Barracuda Lake, WWII wreck diving
Route 2: Visayas Circuit (10-14 days)
- Cebu City → Moalboal → Oslob → Bohol → Siquijor → Dumaguete
- Includes: Whale shark swimming, Chocolate Hills, white sand beaches
- Best for: Diverse experiences, beaches, and culture
Route 3: Siargao and Nearby Islands (7-10 days)
- Siargao: Surfing capital of the Philippines
- Cloud 9, Magpupungko Rock Pools, Sohoton Cove
- Day trips to Naked Island, Daku Island, Guyam Island
- Best for: Surfers and adventure seekers
Top Island Destinations
Palawan Islands
- El Nido: Dramatic limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons
- Coron: Pristine lakes, world-class wreck diving
- Port Barton: Quieter alternative to El Nido
- Balabac: Remote, pristine, fewer tourists
Visayas Islands
- Boracay: White Beach, nightlife, water sports
- Bohol: Chocolate Hills, tarsiers, Panglao beaches
- Siquijor: Mystical island, waterfalls, beaches
- Bantayan: Peaceful, laid-back island life
Mindanao Islands
- Siargao: Surfing, island hopping, laid-back vibe
- Camiguin: Volcanoes, hot springs, waterfalls
- Samal Island: Near Davao, easy access
Practical Island Hopping Tips
Best Time to Visit
- Dry Season: November to May
- Peak Season: December to February (book ahead)
- Avoid: June to October (typhoon season)
Transportation Between Islands
- Ferries: Cheapest option, can be slow
- Bangkas (outrigger boats): Traditional, for short distances
- Domestic flights: Save time for long distances
- Book ferries in advance during peak season
What to Pack
- Reef-safe sunscreen (protect the coral)
- Dry bag for boat trips
- Snorkeling gear (rental quality varies)
- Waterproof phone case
- Light, quick-dry clothing
- First aid kit and medications
Money and Costs
- Daily budget: $30-50 (budget), $50-100 (mid-range)
- Island hopping tours: $15-40 per person
- Bring cash – many islands have limited ATMs
- Always keep small bills for trike rides
Hidden Gems (Less Touristy)
- Calaguas Island: Pristine, remote beach
- Kalanggaman Island: Long white sandbar
- Apo Island: Marine sanctuary, great diving
- Biri Island: Unique rock formations
- Cabacungan Island: Swimming with jellyfish
Responsible Tourism
- Use reef-safe sunscreen only
- Don’t touch coral or marine life
- Take trash with you
- Support local businesses
- Respect local customs and dress codes
- Don’t feed fish or wildlife
Essential Apps
- 12Go Asia: Book ferries and buses
- Grab: For transportation in cities
- Maps.me: Offline navigation
- WeatherPhilippines: Track typhoons
The Philippines offers unparalleled island hopping experiences. With friendly locals, affordable prices, and breathtaking scenery, it’s a paradise for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike!
