Top 10 Beaches to Visit in the Philippines

If you're planning a trip to the Philippines, someone’s probably already told you: “You have to go to the beaches.” And they’re not wrong — the beaches here are ridiculous. We’re talking powdery sand, water so clear you’ll start rethinking bottled water, and sunsets that make you question your life choices (in a good way). But let’s get one thing straight: not all beaches are worth the hype. Some are overcrowded, others take forever to reach, and a few are so perfect you’ll want to cancel your return flight. Here’s my candid list of the top 10 beaches to visit in the Philippines — no fluff, no touristy BS, just honest vibes.

1. Nacpan Beach (El Nido, Palawan)

Talking about beaches to visit in the Philippines, Nacpan Beach should definitely be on your list. This is what you imagine when you think “untouched paradise.” Long stretch of golden sand, barely any buildings, and views that make you want to quit your job. Real Talk: Getting there is a pain — bumpy ride, dusty roads — but the reward? Total beach bliss without the party crowd.

2. White Beach (Boracay)

Talking about beaches to visit in the Philippines, yes, it’s touristy. Yes, everyone and their cousin has been there. But you know what? There’s a reason. That white sand is absurdly soft, and the water is like something out of a commercial. Real Talk: Boracay used to be a messy party island, but after its rehab? It’s clean, organized, and still stunning. Go early morning or sunset to avoid the selfie armies.

3. Saud Beach (Pagudpud)

Way up in the north, Saud is low-key, chill, and feels like a quiet local secret. - one that should definitely be on the list of beaches to visit in the Philippines No beach bars blasting reggaeton. Just palm trees, clean waves, and actual peace. Real Talk: Great if you want to be horizontal with a book and no distractions. Not ideal if you’re looking for nightlife or Wi-Fi.

4. Malcapuya Island (Coron, Palawan)

This place is what desktop wallpapers are made of. The sand is blindingly white, the water is stupidly clear, and the whole place feels like it shouldn’t exist. Real Talk: It’s a day-trip-only situation unless you’re camping, and there’s nothing to do here but swim, sunbathe, and repeat. Which is exactly the point.

5. Alona Beach (Bohol)

Think mini-Boracay, but slightly more chill. It’s got dive shops, beach bars, and actual nightlife, but it still feels more relaxed - one that should definitely be on the list of beaches to visit in the Philippines. Real Talk: Can get busy during peak season. But if you want a social beach with creature comforts, this is a solid bet.

6. Calaguas Islands (Camarines Norte)

Talking about beaches to visit in the Philippines, Calaguas Islands should definitely be on your bucket list. No resorts, no Wi-Fi, no noise — just you, the beach, and maybe a couple of goats. Camping under the stars here is next-level. Real Talk: It’s not easy to get to (bus + boat + patience), but the reward is a raw, beautiful beach with very few people. Pack snacks and wet wipes.

7. Daku Island (Siargao)

You’ve heard of Cloud 9 (surf central), but Daku Island is the real chill zone. Island-hopping tours stop here, but the beach is still peaceful, and the water is as warm as a bath. Real Talk: Eat lunch here. Fresh-caught fish, grilled on the beach. It’s simple, rustic, and way better than overpriced resort food.

8. Bounty Beach (Malapascua Island)

This one’s for divers and chill travelers. It’s not the biggest beach, but it’s got good sand, killer sunsets, and a totally laid-back vibe- one that should definitely be on the list of beaches to visit in the Philippines. Real Talk: No big parties, no mega-hotels. Just you, a hammock, a beer, and possibly a thresher shark sighting (if that’s your thing).

9. Subic Beach (Sorsogon)

If you’re craving that pinkish-sand Instagram magic, Subic’s got you. It’s not as flashy as Boracay or El Nido, but it’s beautiful in a “nobody knows about this place yet” kind of way. Real Talk: Underrated AF. Bring cash and prepare to rough it a bit, but totally worth the effort.

10. Hidden Beach (El Nido again, sorry but not sorry)

They call it “Hidden Beach” for a reason. It’s tucked behind limestone cliffs and is only accessible by boat. Sounds dramatic? It kind of is. Real Talk: It’s on every island-hopping tour, so yes, it gets a bit busy. But if you time it right (early morning!), it feels like your own secret slice of paradise - one that should definitely be on the list of beaches to visit in the Philippines.

Final Candid Notes

Listen — the Philippines is made for beach lovers. There are a number of beaches to visit in the Philippines. But don’t try to hit all these spots in one trip unless you enjoy living in airports and ferry terminals. Pick a couple, chill out, and let the slow island pace do its thing. Need help building a beach-hopping route that doesn’t break your soul or your bank account? Check out our website for more details.