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The 10 Most Exquisite Beaches in the Philippines

If there's one country in Asia known for its amazing beaches, it's the smiling Philippines. The naming of several Philippine beaches as the world's most beautiful by numerous travel magazines is clear proof of their exceptional beauty. However, with over 7,000 islands, the country offers so many breathtaking places that visiting them all becomes an impossible mission. In this article, we present what we believe to be the 10 most beautiful beaches in the Philippines.

1. Nacpan Beach, El Nido, Palawan

We definitely recommend a visit to Nacpan Beach. This beach is a gigantic 4km (2.4 miles) long expanse of white sand, surrounded by tens of thousands of palm trees. You'll find many relaxed hotels and glamping spots situated directly along the beach. We recommend staying for at least two or three nights at this amazing beach.


Nacpan Beach not only has a spectacular beachfront but also offers incredible sunsets. For a truly memorable sunset moment, make sure to climb the small hill nearby.

2. Malcapuya Island, Coron, Palawan

One of the most beautiful beaches in Coron is on Malcapuya Island. This paradise island is known for its white sand beaches, crystal clear waters and beautiful coral reefs. It is the perfect place to relax, swim and snorkel.



The island is also popular for picnics and camping. Bring a packed lunch and enjoy a delicious meal on the beach while listening to the soothing sound of the waves.

3. Calaguas Islands, Camarines Norte

Calaguas Islands is increasingly becoming a popular backpacker beach destination. Located on the northernmost tip of Bicol, this beautiful beach in Camarines Norte is one of the best destinations in Luzon if you want to spend time on a beautiful beach.



4. Siquijor Island

Siquijor is one of the more enjoyable destinations in the Philippines. This is due to the nice and relaxed atmosphere that prevails on the island. The people here are incredibly friendly and life is not rushed at all. The beaches are not only beautiful, but also very relaxed. Moreover, everything is incredibly cheap on the island.



Siquijor is an ideal destination to take it easy for a few days. Chances are that after a few days of doing nothing you will want to stay a few days longer on this island.

5. Onuk Island, Balabac, Palawan

Considered by many to be one of the most beautiful islands on earth, the main island of the southern Philippine province of Palawan is particularly known for its dazzling beaches. El Nido and Port Barton already have a reputation among beach lovers, but the small archipelago of Balabac south of the main island is still largely undiscovered and rarely visited by backpackers.



If you want to spend a few days in seclusion enjoying white sand beaches and island hopping, this archipelago is the place to be.You probably won't be able to visit all 30 islands of the Balabac archipelago during your trip, but Onuk Island is definitely recommended. Its calm, crystal-clear waters invite you to swim, and other than lazing in a hammock, there's not much to do here. The island has a few huts on stilts, in which you can spend the night above the sea. However, as on all the other islands, do not expect luxury but simple accommodation.

6. Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte

Pagudpud, situated just 1.5 hours north of Laoag City in Ilocos Norte and approximately 10 hours from Manila, is rapidly gaining international acclaim as a top beach destination in the Philippines. The pristine white sands of Saud Beach have earned it the nickname 'Boracay of the North.' It has the unspoiled charm of Boracay as it was 25 years ago before mass tourism kicked in.



Pagudpud’s Bangui Bay also features 20 wind turbines, which makes it Southeast Asia’s first windmill farm. The wind also makes it a highly popular surfing site.

7. Great Santa Cruz Island, Zamboanga

For one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, you have to go to Great Santa Cruz Island. You'll find the island just off the coast of Zamboanga City.

Where all other islands have snow-white beaches, the beaches on this island are pink. The beaches owe their pink color to the remains of red organ-pipe corals mixed with white sand.

8. Dahican Beach, Mati, Davao Oriental

It’s so easy to see the beauty of Dahican. A 7 km (4.3 miles) stretch of open beach surrounded by tall coconut trees, fine sand, and powerful waves. It became a true surfer’s paradise.



9. Caramoan Islands, Camarines Sur

The Caramoan Islands are a typical off the beaten track destination. Unspoiled, undiscovered and incredibly beautiful. The islands are located in the northeast, close to the town of Legazpi in the Bicol region.



Very few travelers still visit them and Island hopping is of a whole other experience here. It has limestone forests, perfect white sand beaches, tranquil lakes, deep caves, impressive bays, stunning marine life and beautiful rock formations. This the ideal tropical destination in the Philippines.

10. Camiguin Island

Camiguin is a fairly unspoiled island. It excels with volcanoes since it has the most volcanoes per square kilometer in the world.  Its landscape, featuring waterfalls and volcanoes, draws comparisons to Hawaii. The island is a great destination for spending a few days, especially given its accessibility.

Camiguin is located just 20 kilometers (12.4 miles) off the north coast of the island of Mindanao and 4 hours by boat from Bohol. It's surprising that Camiguin is still less frequented by travelers.



Blessed with white sandy beaches, beautiful lagoons, pristine waterfalls, volcanoes and impressive mountain scenery, this is truly one of the most beautiful islands in the country.

This article was last updated on July 16, 2024.