best place to visit in philippines in september

Philippines in September Travel Guide: Where to Go, Weather, Best Activities, Festivals, Tips

Philippines Weather in September

Is september rainy season in the philippines, philippines temperature in september, what to wear when visiting the philippines in september, where to go in the philippines and best activities in september, surfing in siargao, whitewater rafting in cagayan de oro.

• Explore Cebu's beaches and outdoor activities

Island hopping in Palawan

Atv in mayon volcano.

• Visit Boracay's white-sand beaches

Countryside Tour in Bohol

Relax at samal island resorts in davao, take a dip at the best philippine hot springs, visit indoor museums and playgrounds, go on a food tour.

• September Festivals and Events in the Philippines

Bicol Food Festival

• Tuna Festival (General Santos City)
• Peñafrancia Festival (Naga City)

Start of Christmas season in the Philippines

Tips when traveling to the philippines in september.

• Crowds in September
• Driving in the Philippines in September

Boat tours during rainy season in the Philippines can be canceled

Prepare for power interruptions, prepare for travel delays, recommended philippines travel itineraries in september.

This season is particularly popular for international travelers coming from colder countries as well since the weather in September still usually never goes below 25°C despite it being the middle of the rainy season. 

• Find cheap flights to the Philippines
• Book Philippines airport transfers

While the rain might not always be favorable for some, visiting during September lets you enjoy lower hotel prices and discounted tours as this is considered the lean season for tourism. If you opt to take advantage of the cheaper fares, there are still a wide array of activities you can try in the country, such as visiting Philippine beaches , surfing, whitewater rafting, scuba diving, and joining September celebrations in the Philippines.

See our popular Best Philippines Itinerary Tour Packages

5-day nature & islands adventure package to puerto princesa and el nido palawan, 4-day fascinating culture & nature tour package to cebu & bohol with accommodations & transfers, scenic 1-week beaches & nature vacation package to cebu, puerto princesa & el nido palawan.

It is also highly recommended to have a flexible Philippines itinerary in case the rain causes the cancellation of flights and other activities. 

Yes, September still falls within the local rainy season, which usually lasts until the early weeks of November. Typhoons are also a large possibility this month, so it's best to watch local weather reports during your trip. 

See our popular Top Tours in the Philippines

Boracay island hopping shared tour with lunch, kawa hot bath & snorkeling package, coron island hopping tour to kayangan lake & barracuda lake | palawan super ultimate package, shared puerto princesa underground river tour in palawan with lunch & hotel transfers.

During a Philippine vacation in September, always pack a waterproof jacket that you can easily put on when the rain starts. For footwear, it's highly recommended to opt for water-resistant sneakers or boots, so they're easy to wipe clean and will keep your feet from getting wet. 

See our popular Siargao Tours and Activities

Private siargao tri island hopping tour with hotel transfers | guyam, naked, daku islands, siargao airport to/from any hotel in general luna | private transfers, siargao land tour to magpupungko rock pools, cloud 9, coconut mountain view & more with transfers.

See our popular Cagayan De Oro Tours and Activities

Exciting 4-day cagayan de oro package with whitewater rafting & stay at seda centrio with breakfast, relaxing 3-day cagayan de oro package at seda centrio with daily breakfast & airport transfers, cagayan de oro tour to sinulom falls & bolao cold spring with hotel transfers, explore cebu's beaches and outdoor activities.

• Book Cebu airport transfers

Meanwhile, anyone interested in canyoneering will find the best experience in Cebu's Kawasan Falls. During a Cebu canyoneering tour , you'll hike, cliff dive, and swim as you make your way through one of the best waterfalls in the Philippines . 

Visiting Coron and El Nido in September also lets you enjoy cheaper hotel prices. You can also book a Coron to El Nido package to visit both areas in one trip. Apart from island hopping, you can visit the Puerto Princesa Underground River in Puerto Princesa and Long Beach in San Vicente.

See our popular Palawan Tours and Activities

Private el nido palawan lio airport to or from any el nido town hotel transfer service.

See our popular Albay Tours and Activities

Albay best views of mayon sightseeing & culture tour with snacks & transfers from legazpi, albay private half-day tour from legazpi with lunch | cagsawa ruins, daraga church, sumlang lake, albay bicol mayon atv exclusive trail, church & farm village tour with transfers from legazpi, visit boracay's white-sand beaches.

• Book a Boracay airport transfer

With fewer people on the island, you can better enjoy the sunset at White Beach and go island-hopping in Boracay . For a hassle-free trip, you can opt for Boracay tour packages and Boracay tours as well. 

See our popular Boracay Tours and Activities

Boracay island hopping package private tour with lunch, snorkeling gear & kawa hot bath, boracay helmet diving aquanaut activity with underwater photos & videos.

You can also add a Loboc River Cruise to your itinerary for a tasty buffet while you sail down an idyllic waterway lined by a verdant forest. Apart from touring the countryside, you can also explore Balicasag Island , one of the best diving spots in the Philippines . 

See our popular Bohol Tours and Activities

Bohol chocolate hills countryside private tour with transfers & add-on loboc river cruise lunch, bohol countryside tour chocolate hills to loboc river cruise lunch with hotel transfers, bohol island hopping private tour to balicasag & virgin islands with dolphin watching & transfers.

See our popular Davao Tours and Activities

Davao city tour b with transfers | philippine eagle center, people's park, malagos garden resort, 3-day stress-free package to davao at seda abreeza with breakfast & airport transfers, davao city tour d with transfers | crocodile park, people's park, d' bone collector museum.

If you're staying in Luzon, you can choose from several hot spring resorts in Laguna , Pampanga , Bicol, and Coron. As for those traveling around Visayas, you can check out the hot springs in Negros Oriental and Cebu. Meanwhile, those exploring Mindanao can take a dip in the hot springs of Camiguin and Sultan Kudarat.

See our popular Hot and Cold Spring Tours

Shared coron palawan top land attractions afternoon tour with transfers, palawan coron town tour to mt. tapyas, maquinit hot spring & cashew factory with transfers, coron palawan kayangan lake island hopping tour with lunch & transfers.

In Visayas, you can check out the National Museums of Cebu and Bohol. Then in the region of Mindanao, you can browse through the exhibits at the D'Bone Collector Museum in Davao and the Capitol University Museum of Three Cultures in Cagayan de Oro, among others. 

See our popular Philippines Day Passes and Tickets

Boracay movenpick resort & spa day pass with access to facilities, chocolate hour & meal, boracay crimson resort & spa day pass with access to facilities & dining credits at azure beach club, batangas canyon cove day pass with beach & main pool access.

Stop by the local Pampanga restaurants in the province to taste iconic Filipino favorites like sisig and halo-halo. For a more hearty dish, don't miss out on sampling Cebu's lechon , Iloilo's La Paz Batchoy , and Bicol's Laing. 

See our popular Food Tours

Manila binondo & intramuros full-day tour with guide & transfers, iloilo city food tour & sightseeing with transfers | la paz batchoy, pancit molo, jaro church, bohol loboc river cruise lunch with private transfers from panglao, september festivals and events in the philippines .

The famous Bicol Food Festival is a month-long celebration that showcases the region's best dishes and culinary traditions. 

Tuna Festival (General Santos City) 

Held in General Santos City, you can join the Tuna Festival since the city is well known as the Tuna Capital of the Philippines. 

Peñafrancia Festival (Naga City)

For devout Catholics, September also relates to Naga City's Peñafrancia Festival, which honors the province's patron saint. 

For many locals, Christmas in the Philippines starts in September. By September 1, families start putting up parols (Christmas lanterns) and Christmas lights while malls play holiday classics like "All I Want For Christmas Is You." This penchant for the holidays generally stems from the Filipinos' deep ties with Catholicism. 

The holidays also signal reunions for many families as thousands of overseas Filipino workers take a break from work to come home. The Philippines holds the record for the longest celebration of Christmas in the world. 

See our popular Cultural Tours

Bohol countryside private tour & shared loboc river lunch cruise with transfers, cebu city top attractions half-day private tour with transfers.

Crowds in September 

Since September is part of the lean season of tourism in the Philippines, tourist spots may not have the large crowds that are usually seen during the summer season. While there is always a chance of rain, traveling in September also means enjoying the top attractions like Boracay's White Beach and the Puerto Princesa Underground River with fewer people. 

Driving in the Philippines in September 

In light of possible floods, it's best to opt for SUVs, vans, or crossovers when picking a Philippine car rental since they can better handle driving through light floods.

See our popular 4x4 SUV Cars in the Philippines

Toyota innova or similar, toyota innova - automatic or similar, toyota innova mt or similar.

While hotels are equipped with their respective generators, it's still best to be prepared for any possible power interruptions due to heavy rains. It's also highly recommended to charge your devices during idle times at the hotel and bring a power bank or two with you on the trip. 

Rainy days can usually cause travel delays, so it's best to have a flexible itinerary for your vacation so you can make the most of your September vacation in the Philippines. 

To make the most of your trip, we suggest taking advantage of Guide to the Philippines’ all-inclusive Philippine vacation packages that already have pre-arranged flights, transfers, accommodations, and tours. On top of not stressing about the details, you can also depend on the travel agency to help you should you face any delays or cancellations caused by heavy rains during your trip. 

For travelers in Luzon who are keen on learning about Philippine history and are up for hiking mountains, you should consider the 1-Week Ilocos, Baguio & Mount Pinatubo Historical & Adventure Philippines Itinerary . If you want to go island-hopping and dive in the best spots in Palawan, we recommend the 12-Day Coron to El Nido Palawan Philippines Adventure Itinerary Tour , which will give you ample time to see the top attractions in both places. 

See our popular 2 Weeks Philippines Itinerary Tour Packages

2-week stunning islands & beaches tour to coron, puerto princesa & el nido palawan from manila, amazing 2-week island hopping & nature tour to palawan, cebu & boracay from manila, best 2-week islands & adventure tour to el nido & coron in palawan, cebu, siquijor & boracay package.

Lastly, those who want to take advantage of the intermittent rainfall and try water activities like whitewater rafting should plan trips to Mindanao. For whitewater rafting, we recommend booking the 1-Week Cagayan de Oro (CDO), Camiguin, Bukidnon Adventure Itinerary Mindanao Tour , as it also takes you to the nearby provinces of Camiguin and Bukidnon. 

And if you want to ride the best surfing waves in the country, the 1-Week Siargao to Cebu & Dumaguete Islands & Hot Springs Philippines Tour Itinerary is your best bet. 

See our popular 1 Week in the Philippines Itinerary Tour Packages

1-week scenic nature & islands tour package to cebu & puerto princesa palawan from manila, ultimate 1-week palawan tour to puerto princesa, port barton & el nido with flights from manila.

Plan Your Philippines September Vacation Now

Make the most of your vacation by checking out our Philippine travel guide for more tips on exploring the country. 

While the best time to visit the Philippines is from March to May, there are more than a hundred islands in the country that you can discover even in September. For a hassle-free vacation, you can book Philippine vacation packages that already cover your flights, accommodations, and transfers.

Popular articles

Best Palawan Guide: Top Tours, Where to Stay, How to Get Around

20 Most Beautiful Sandbars in the Philippines: White Sand, Longest, Vanishing

11 Best Santorini-Like Resorts in the Philippines: Near Manila, Cebu, Palawan, Vigan

15 Best Tropical Bali-Like Resorts in the Philippines: Near Manila, Siargao, Cebu, Bohol

10 Best Treehouse Resorts in the Philippines for a Scenic Getaway at Mountains, Beaches & Rivers

Other interesting articles.

Coron Palawan Travel Guide: Island Tours + Hotels + Itinerary

Legazpi Albay Travel Guide: Mayon Volcano + Hotels + Itinerary

Moalboal Cebu Travel Guide: Swim with Millions of Sardines

Download the Philippines’ biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add the Philippines’ biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.

Top things to do in the Philippines

Discover all the adventures you can experience in the Philippines

Philippines Tour Packages

Boracay Island

Bohol Island

Cebu Island

Coron Palawan

El Nido Palawan

Siargao Island

Iloilo City and Nearby

You will be redirected to your dashboard shortly. We will also call you back in 24 hrs .

• Philippines In September: Know All About Which Places To Explore & Where To Stay!

23 Mar 2023

The Philippines is an archipelago of 7,000 islands located in the western Pacific of Southeast Asia. With so many tropical islands to choose from, the Philippines is a perfect place for those seeking solace at the beaches on the warm sand and the sound of the shore! You can experience adventure sports and many other activities at beautiful islands such as the Visayas and Palawan. While we can say that the place is utterly gorgeous all throughout the year, Philippines in September is a dream for those who are admirers of picturesque beauty, painted landscapes and endless adventure activities!

Here’s a handy guide on why Philippines in September is an ideal vacation spot for all kinds of travelers out there!

Weather In Philippines In September

September marks the peak of the rainy season in the Philippines and is considered that time of the year in the place when you can experience the best of both worlds – good weather and the lesser crowd. Since this month sees the onset of the rainy season, the days are mostly breezy and windy and the nights pleasantly chilly. The average temperature in the Philippines in September ranges between 24 degrees to 33 degrees Celsius.

4 Best Places To Visit In Philippines In September

There are many places to visit in the Philippines in September where you can chill and relax whilst enjoying the beauty of the place at its very core!

Image Source

Palawan Island is one of the most remote regions of the Philippines and is the ultimate destination for travelers who wish to explore the tropical wilderness. The quarantine of Palawan offers travelers a more natural landscape and the beautiful coral reefs of the island attract many adventure seekers all year round!

Must Read: Philippines Honeymoon: Come, Raise A Toast To The World’s Prettiest Island Country

El Nido has beautiful offshore islands, massive limestone cliffs, hidden beaches, and a hidden lagoon. It is an alluring destination that is really ideal for photographers and artists. You can visit this place to simply relax and rejuvenate!

Suggested Read: 8 Magnificent Places To Visit In Philippines In October For A Surreal Trip

Cebu City is the most popular tourist destination in the Philippines thanks to its strategic location in the center of the Philippines, its excellent network of flights/ferries, and its many attractions. Upon arrival in Cebu, visit Spanish colonial sites, beaches, and waterfalls scattered throughout the province and neighboring islands. Don’t leave without tasting the local cuisine, starting with the precious Cebu Lechon.

Suggested Read: Cebu In August: The Perfect Season For A Getaway To The Philippines

The island of Bohol is a haven of tropical beauty. Calm bays and white sandy beaches surround the island’s coastline and dolphin and whale watching tours are popular with residents and tourists here. The island of Bohol is famous for its Chocolate Hills which you must visit!

Suggested Read: 8 Philippines Travel Tips For An Easy And Fun Journey Of The Place!

3 Top Places To Stay In Philippines

There are many amazing places where you can stay so as to make your stay enjoyable and easy. Three best places to stay in the Philippines are:

1. Savoy Hotel Manila

The 4-star Savoy Hotel Manila offers an outdoor pool and a free airport shuttle, 200 meters from Resorts World Manila. The hotel has a 24-hour reception, restaurant, and bar and each room has a large shower and a private bathroom with free toiletries. The other bedrooms have a minibar, tea, and coffee making facilities, and an executive lounge. Facilities at the hotel include a gym, spa, and fitness center which you can enjoy!

Location: 101 Andrews Ave, Pasay, 1300 Metro Manila, Philippines Price per night: INR 7200 onwards TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5/ 5 Website | TripAdvisor Reviews

Suggested Read: 10 Exotic Beaches Near Manila To Visit On Your Tropical Philippines Vacation

2. Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila

The Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila is an iconic five-star luxury resort surrounded by a vast tropical environment. The hotel has a Parisian bar with a press stud, a sports bar, a bistro, a bakery, a library, a cafeteria and an indoor lounge on an outdoor terrace. The modern bar and the Sunset Bar combine the idyllic landscape of picturesque outdoor dining.

Location: CCP Complex, Roxas Blvd, Pasay, 1300 Metro Manila, Philippines Price per night: INR 9200 onwards TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5/5 Website | TripAdvisor Reviews

Suggested Read: 7 Cafes In Makati City For A Trip To Good Times In The Philippines

3. New World Makati Hotel

When you arrive at the lush and beautiful New World Makati Hotel, your first impression is that the friendly staff warmly welcomes you to a luxurious 5-star hotel located in the heart of Makati. The 580 modern rooms and suites are comfortable, practical, and efficient. Wherever you go, you will find natural, attractive, and barrier-free services.

Location: Esperanza Street corner Makati Avenue, Ayala Center, Makati, 1228 Metro Manila, Philippines Price per night: INR 7600 onwards TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5/ 5 Website | TripAdvisor Reviews

Suggested Read: The Perfect Davao City Travel Guide For A Planned Vacation In The Philippines

Tips For Visiting Philippines In September

• Plan your trip beforehand to avoid confusion and chaos
• Learn a few phrases before visiting the place for utmost convenience
• Carry enough cash for your trip
• Travel through public transport as it is cheap and easily available
• Taste the local cuisine

Further Read: 7 Cafes In Makati City For A Trip To Good Times In The Philippines

Philippines in September is an absolute bliss as there are so many wonderful things to do and so many exquisite places to explore under the clear sky and amidst lovely weather. Feel the warmth of the sun and the rejuvenating breeze of the place when you plan your trip to the Philippines .

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Philippines In September

Is September a good month to visit the Philippines?

Yes, because of the breezy and cool weather, September is a good time to visit the Philippines.

Does it rain in the Philippines during September?

Since the Philippines experiences the rainy season during September, it certainly rains during this time.

Is the Philippines an ideal place for a honeymoon in September?

Yes, planning a Philippines honeymoon is ideal in September because of the romantic vibes and windy weather.

What are the places one can visit in Philippines during September?

Some of the places that one can explore are: 1. Camiguin Island 2. Chocolate Hills 3. Vigan 4. Batad Rice Terraces 5. Cebu City 6. Hinatuan

What are some of the adventure sports that one can try in the Philippines?

Some of the adventure sports that can be experienced are: 1. White water rafting 2. Mountaineering 3. Wakeboarding 4. Canyoneering 5. Sandboarding

People Also Read:

Thailand in September Calgary in September Turkey in September

Recent Posts

आनंदपूर्वक घूमने के लिए 52 भारत में सर्वश्रेष्ठ छुट्टियाँ बिताने की जगहें

2024 में एक ताज़गी भरी 49 छुट्टियों के लिए उत्तर भारत में घूमने की जगहें

भारत से घूमने के लिए सबसे सस्ते देश जहां आपको 50K से भी कम खर्च आएगा!

8 Serene Places To Visit Near Eiffel Tower And Admire Its Timeless Beauty

9 Best Places To Visit Near Humayun Tomb For A Wholesome Experience

27 पुणे में मज़ेदार जगहें 2024 में आपका उत्साह बढ़ा देंगी

Trending Blogs

20 Mysterious Places In India To Visit In 2023 More Bizarre Than The Bermuda Triangle

10 Scariest Roads In India That Are A Driver’s Nightmare

101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30 in 2024

35 Exotic Places To Visit In December In India 2024 To Enjoy A Surreal Vacation

60 Best Honeymoon Destinations In India In 2024

95 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The World In 2023 For A Romantic Escape!

Best Places To Visit In India By Month

Best places to visit outside india by month.

• TravelTriangle
• International
• Destinations » Philippines »
• Tour Packages
• Honeymoon Packages
• Family Packages
• Budget Tour Packages
• Luxury Tour Packages
• Adventure Tour Packages
• Group Tour Packages
• Maldives Tour Packages
• Bali Tour Packages
• Dubai Tour Packages
• Singapore Tour Packages
• Thailand Tour Packages
• Europe Tour Packages
• Sri Lanka Tour Packages
• Tour Packages From Delhi
• Tour Packages From Mumbai
• Tour Packages From Bangalore
• Tour Packages From Chennai
• Tour Packages From Kolkata
• Tour Packages From Hyderabad
• Tour Packages From Ahmedabad
• Thailand Tourism
• Bali Tourism
• Singapore Tourism
• Maldives Tourism
• Mauritius Tourism
• Dubai Tourism
• Europe Tourism
• Hotels in Thailand
• Hotels in Maldives
• Hotels in Mauritius
• Hotels in Bali
• Hotels in Dubai
• Hotels in Singapore
• Hotels in Sri Lanka

Philippines in September

Located in SouthEast Asia, Philippines remains one to a number of island; thus making it an ideal gateway destination for most tourists. The island is coupled with just the right mix of adventure, nightlife, traditional churches, stunning beaches and much more. Philippines has something in it for everyone, so if you’re looking for a leisure vacation, adventure or maybe even the right mix of both – the island has it all. And if you are looking to make a trip to Philippines in September, you’ve hit the bonus!

Tourists are bound to have the time of their life, as they explore the island at their own pace. The island in itself has a unique beauty to it that cannot be undermined. Tourists marvel at the very existence of a number of natural wonders that the island has to offer. If you love to travel and the world of exploration has been your go-to, you’re sure to have an experience that you’re going to remember for a long time to come. Get ready to be surprised as you make your way through this stunning island.

We’ve put together a ‘Philippines in September,’ guide just for you. Find everything you need to know below and make the most of your Philippines travel plans.

Weather In Philippines In September

The beginning of the rains, is what the month of September marks in the Philippines. Most travellers consider this the best month, for them to experience amazing weather coupled with much lesser people tourists on the island. A visit during the month of September, will include breezy days and pleasant nights. Tourists would experience reasonably good weather, ranging from about 24 degrees to 33 degrees Celsius, through the season.

Places To Visit In Philippines in September

If you’re a traveller looking to explore the tropical paradise of the island, then the ‘Palawan Island,’ is the perfect place for you to visit in Philippines in September. Offering tourists with sandy beaches, stunningly scenic corals and a breathtaking landscape in itself, Palawan is home to nature lovers and considered to be the ultimate destination for tourists in the Philippine Islands .

Looking for picturesque photos and natural beauty? El Nido is a place you’ve got to visit while in Philippines in September. Known for its beaches, lagoons, limestone cliffs and so much more; El Nido is simply the best place to bring out the photographer in you. Tourists visit the place to relax and recouple, during the course of their journey.

An entirely surreal experience altogether, ‘Cebu,’ provides tourists with a view of the Spanish colonial sites, provinces, waterfalls and so much more. Strategically located in the central part of the island, Cebu is accessible through a great number of ferries and flights, travelling to and fro the island. On your trip to Philippines in September enjoy some of Cebu’s amazing local delicacies and experience a whole new culture at Cebu.

Most famous for the ‘Chocolate Hills,’ that are found within the region, Bohol is truly a haven for tropical lovers. Tourists can be part of a number of whale and dolphin watching tours that remain extremely popular amongst the long coastline of the island. 

Top 3 Places To Stay In Philippines

Savoy hotel manila.

One of the most renowned 4-star hotels in the island, the ‘Savoy Hotel,’ offers a wide variety of facilities for tourists to avail – be it the spa, gym, fitness centres and so much more. Located about 200 meters from the most famous ‘ Resorts World Manila ,’ the hotel also offers a free airport shuttle, coupled along with outdoor pools as well. Almost every room in the hotel has an executive lounge, coffee and tea facilities and of course a minibar that you can make the most of on your vacation to Philippines in September!!

The ambience and hospitality of the ‘Savoy Hotel,’ cannot be understated and is considered to be one of the best in the region. 

Price per night: INR 7200 

TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5/ 5

Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila

Looking for a hotel that serves you with an entirely different experience during your trip to Philippines in September? The ‘Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila,’ does just that – with its Parisien bar, cafeterias, libraries and so on. The five-star hotel is also known for its indoor lounge, press stud, bistro and picturesque tropical backdrop; that makes for an amazing view. The outdoor scenic setting of the hotel, offers tourists with an exotic view combined with a modern and sunset bar, at their disposal. 

Price per night: INR 9200 

TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5/5

New World Makati Hotel

Located right in the centre of  Makati, the ‘New World Makati Hotel,’ is regarded as one of the most beautiful hotel properties you’ll find on the island. This luxurious 5-star hotel, has about 580 modern rooms – known to be adorned with the most efficient and comfortable amenities for guests. The ‘New World Makati Hotel,’ gives tourists a glimpse into the stunning landscape of the island.

Price per night: INR 7600 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Is september an ideal month to visit the philippines.

The amazing weather coupled with much lesser people tourists on the island, makes September a good time for tourists to visit the Philippines.

Is the month of September a good time for honeymooners to travel to the Philippines?

The romantic vibes and good weather makes September a good time for your honeymoon travel plans to the Philippines. 

Are there any must-visit places in the Philippines in September?

Tourists can visit a number of places during the month of September, some of them being – Camiguin Island, Chocolate Hills, Vigan, Batad Rice Terraces, Cebu City, Hinatuan

Does the Philippines offer tourists with adventure sports?

There are a wide array of adventure sports you could be part of – White water rafting, Mountaineering, Wakeboarding, Canyoneering, Sandboarding are some of the best things to do in the Philippines ; the island has it all. 

Thus, there are endless reasons that outnumber why you wouldn’t want to go ahead and kick-start your bookings to this vibrant island today. 

We at Pickyourtrail would love to craft an amazing vacation to Philippines in September just for you. So get set, and book your Philippines vacation today!

107 Posts Published.

Related itineraries.

7 Nights Philippines holiday for first-time travellers

• Flights excluded
• 3 star accommodations
• 5 activities
• Shared transfer

₹ 92,543

Starting price/person

An ideal 7 night Philippines itinerary for a Honeymoon getaway

• 1 star accommodations

₹ 63,302

An incredible 8 day Philippines itinerary for an unforgettable Honeymoon vacation

₹ 67,126.

Lovely 8 day trip to Philippines for Honeymoon

₹ 71,146.

An epic 7 night Philippines itinerary for the ideal

₹ 69,862.

Relaxing Philippines Tour Package for Couple

₹ 73,514.

The perfect 8 day Philippines Honeymoon itinerary to rejuvenate

₹ 68,130.

Luxury redefined : A 9 day Philippines itinerary

• 7 activities

₹ 59,672

An epic 7 night Philippines itinerary for the relaxing

₹ 71,177, a fun family itinerary to explore philippines in 8 days, ₹ 62,211, related posts, things to do in cebu, philippines: the ultimate guide 2024, the festivals of the philippines, the top 8 beautiful towns in the philippines, best national parks in philippines: experience nature at its best, why you should visit luzon island in the philippines, nightlife in the philippines: dance the night away, canyoneering in the philippines: the new age adventure, top most beautiful places in the philippines, why you shouldn’t visit the philippines – factors to ponder, why you should visit the philippines once in your lifetime find out the top reasons, top 7 beautiful islands in the philippines which will stun you with its beauty, must-visit attractions in palawan philippines.

Book a vacation completely online

Our community is growing fast

Sign up for exclusive PYT Club membership and access jaw-dropping deals before the rest of the world!

• Signup with Email
• Facebook community
• Telegram Community

Access exciting travel deals at best prices

• New Zealand
• South East Asia
• United Kingdom
• United States
• Switzerland
• Travelogues
• Travel News
• Guest Posts
• Write for us

• PRIVACY POLICY

When & Where to Visit the Philippines: A Month by Month Guide

Guide for the best places to visit in the Philippines month by month. 

JANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL MAY JUNE JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER

When to visit the Philippines?   That is the question we are most often asked. 

The answer to this question varies depending on the month of the year and your interests.   

Since the Philippines is an archipelago, its climate and the weather varies geographically from month to month. 

Weather aside, there are other reasons to visit the Philippines … natural wonders, beaches & islands, contemporary cities with modern conveniences & shopping, exciting outdoor activities & adventures,  colorful & fun festivals, delicious food, and of course the Filipino people.

JANUARY:  Quiapo and Western Visayas

January is the best time to visit the Philippines if you are into big and colorful festivals.  During this month, most celebrations in the country are religious and cultural in nature.  After the big New Year’s welcome, the next biggest event is the Feast of Black Nazarene in Quiapo, Manila every 9th of the month.  The procession, referred to as Traslación (transfer), is flocked by thousands of devotees and can last more than 20 hours.  The other three popular events in January are celebrated in honor of Santo Niño (Child Jesus).  In the third week of the month, you can either be in Cebu for the Sinulog Festival or in Kalibo, Aklan for the Ati-Atihan Festival.  You can then fly to Iloilo for the Dinagyang Festival which takes place the last week of the month.  All three festivals are celebrated almost the same way, having similar activities including holy mass, procession, street dancing, tribal dances, music and food festivals, pageant, and many others.

READ MORE:  Cebu Island Visitors Guide | Where To Go in the Philippines in January

FEBRUARY:  Pampanga and Iloilo

Sometime between January and February, the Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta takes place in Clark Freeport Zone, Angeles , Pampanga .  This biggest and longest-running aviation sports event in the Philippines features not only hundreds of hot air balloons but also skydiving, flag jumps, remote-control airplane and helicopter flying exhibitions, aerobatics, and other equally interesting and thrilling events.  If you are in Iloilo for the Dinagyang Festival, you can stay longer and wait for Paraw Regatta Festival, the largest sailing event in the Philippines.  The event features a sailboat called Paraw, a Visayan double outrigger sailboat.  For the last week of February, you may want to be in Baguio City for the highlight of Panagbenga Festival (Flower Festival).

READ MORE:  Pampanga Visitors Guide | Iloilo City Visitors Guide | Where to Go in the Philippines in February

MARCH:  Palawan

The country is gearing up for warmer temperatures during the month.  You may wish to remain in Baguio or travel further to Banaue to continuously enjoy colder temperature or make the most of the weather by exploring the thousands of islands and beaches spread throughout the country.  You can spend the whole month in Palawan exploring the magnificent beaches, rich marine life, and lush greenery of El Nido , Coron , and Puerto Princesa or the laid back vibe of Port Barton .

READ MORE:  Palawan Island Visitors Guide | Where To Go in the Philippines in March

APRIL:  Sorsogon, Mt. Pulag, and Mt. Apo

With the temperature getting warmer by the day, people continue to flock the beaches and other outdoor destinations and activities.  Bohol Island is known to have the best diving and snorkeling spots while Donsol, Sorsogon   is a great destination to see the gentle giant whale sharks.  If you can’t be near the sea, trekking or mountain climbing are equally interesting activities to enjoy during this month.  Mt. Pulag is a popular destination even to first-timers while Mt. Apo , the highest peak in the Philippines, is at the bucket list of probably every mountain-climbing enthusiast.

READ MORE:  The Complete Guide to … 

MAY:  Boracay

May is the best month to be in Boracay.  The biggest parties, particularly the famous Love Boracay (formerly La Boracay), happens during end of April to Labor Day.  However, wild beach parties are no longer allowed and the number of tourists entering the island daily has been greatly decreased after its re-opening following its six-month closure in 2018.  Nevertheless, it’s still the most favorite destination of both local and foreign tourists during this time.

READ MORE:  Boracay Island Visitors Guide

JUNE:  Iligan City

While some prefer to travel to weatherproof destinations or not travel at all since the weather can be unpredictable during this time, June is actually a good month to see the waterfalls.  As the season transitions from dry to rainy, waterfalls more likely have a lot of water and the surroundings more lush.  When talking about waterfalls, there’s no other place to be than Iligan, the City of Majestic Waterfalls.  Home to more than 28 waterfalls, this city in Northern Mindanao is definitely worth exploring.

READ MORE:  Iligan City Visitors Guide

JULY:  Bohol

The province of Bohol is a good choice during this month.  Bohol’s Sandugo Festival happens every 3rd or 4th week of July in Tagbilaran City, the capital of Bohol.  Aside from the grand festival which features street dancing, trade and food fairs, and concerts among others, Bohol is blessed with white sand beaches, interesting diving and snorkeling spots, caves, and of course, the famous Chocolate Hills which are starting to turn green after months of being brown caused by lack of rain.

READ MORE:  Bohol Island Visitors Guide

AUGUST:  Davao City

Best to go to Davao in August to catch their Kadayawan Festival.  One of the most popular festivals in the country, this weeklong celebration takes place every third week of the month and features various activities including street dancing, live performances, and fairs.  If you’re not into such activities, you can explore several tourist attractions in Davao such as Eden Nature Park, Crocodile Farm, and Samal Island .

READ MORE:  Davao City Visitors Guide

SEPTEMBER:  Siargao

Rainy season is at its peak in September.  Sea travel may not always be comfortable due to rough seas but this month is a great month to go surfing in Siargao not only because the waves are usually high and strong.  Siargao Cup, an international surfing competition, is held during this month too.  Dubbed as the Surfing Capital of the Philippines, this little haven for both local and foreign surfers attracts non-surfers as well for its beaches, caves, and natural pools.

READ MORE:  Siargao Island Visitors Guide | Top Surfing Spots in the Philippines

OCTOBER:  Cagayan de Oro and Camiguin

The neighboring places of Cagayan de Oro and Camiguin are great destinations in October.  Experience thrilling activities such as whitewater rafting, river tubing, zipline, kayaking, and paragliding in Cagayan de Oro.  In addition to being home to several adventure parks, Cagayan de Oro is also a gateway to smaller yet equally beautiful province, the island of Camiguin which is known for its islands, volcanoes, springs, waterfalls, and sunken cemetery.  The province’s Lanzones Festival also happens every October as it is in season during this month.

READ MORE:  Camiguin Island Visitors Guide | Cagayan De Oro Visitors Guide

NOVEMBER:  Dumaguete City and Siquijor Island

While some of the biggest typhoons in the country occur in November,  Dumaguete City  and  Siquijor Island  should be safe to visit during this month.  Known for Silliman University which is the first American university in Asia, Dumaguete is a favorite retirement destination among expats and a gateway to many natural attractions including  Apo Island , Manjuyod Sandbar, Casaroro Falls , and the enchanting Siquijor Island.  Siquijor is home to a number of whitesand beaches, cliff diving spots, and cold springs.

Sandurot Festival is celebrated every second week of November in Dumaguete City.

READ MORE:  Dumaguete City Visitors Guide | Siquijor Island Visitors Guide

DECEMBER:  Manila

The already bustling and crowded Manila comes even more alive as the holiday season approaches.  Most of the biggest establishments in the country’s capital have their own Christmas activities, shows, and displays that usually last the whole month of December.  SM Mall of Asia ‘s Grand Festival of Lights, the giant gingerbread at Okada Manila, Ayala Festival of Lights, and Tiendesita’s Christmas tunnel are some of the many attractions to feast your eyes into and feel the Christmas spirit in Manila.  In addition to that are the biggest Christmas sales, parties, and concerts that will surely make your Christmas experience in Manila an unforgettable one.  Just be prepared for road traffic as it is usually bad during the holidays.

READ MORE:  Metro Manila Visitors Guide

Don’t Forget …

Book online & save money.

Book Your Trip Flights Hotels Transportation Travel Insurance No-Fee Cards

PIN FOR LATER

About the Author

Patrick is an entrepreneur, digital nomad, explorer, and photographer. Patrick is always in search of fun and adventure. He is well travelled throughout the world, and although location independent, his home base is Phoenix, Arizona in the USA. Patrick loves island lifestyle which is no wonder why he is so interested in spending time in the Philippines with it’s over 7,000 islands. Patrick created this site to share his knowledge of and experiences in the Philippines with Filipinos as well as other foreigners.

Leave a Comment X

Things to do in Manila in September

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Looking for a different month?

September is a good time to visit Manila . The weather is usually very warm, muggy, with temperatures ranging from 77—85°F (25—29°C). There are plenty of events to check out and activities to try in Manila during this time. Some of our top recommendations: explore the Pinto Art Museum in Antipolo, explore the Intramuros Open House, and visit the La Mesa Eco Park in Quezon City!

Manila has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your September trip to Manila. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to September. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

We’ll let you know everything you need to prepare for the weather in Manila in September. Learn about what to wear and pack for your trip, the average temperatures throughout September, temperature changes from morning to evening and much more.

Table of contents

• Experiences
• Weather and what to wear
• Attractions

Best events and things to do in Manila in September

Top experiences in september, explore the pinto art museum in antipolo, explore the intramuros open house, visit the la mesa eco park in quezon city, holidays in manila in september.

• Maulid un-Nabi ( September 16 )

Other notable holidays

• Ninoy Aquino Day ( August 21 )
• National Heroes Day ( August 26 )
• All Saints' Day ( November 1 )
• All Souls' Day ( November 2 )
• Bonifacio Day ( November 30 )
• Feast of the Immaculate Conception ( December 8 )
• Christmas Eve ( December 24 )
• Christmas Day ( December 25 )
• Rizal Day ( December 30 )
• New Year's Eve ( December 31 )
• New Year's Day ( January 1 )
• Lailatul Isra Wal Mi Raj ( January 27 )
• Lunar New Year's Day ( January 29 )
• People Power Anniversary ( February 25 )
• Weather in Manila in September

Temperatures on an average day in Manila in September

The average temperature in Manila in September for a typical day ranges from a high of 85°F (29°C) to a low of 77°F (25°C). Some would describe it as very warm, muggy.

For comparison, the hottest month in Manila , April, has days with highs of 92°F (33°C) and lows of 76°F (24°C). The coldest month, February has days with highs of 85°F (29°C) and lows of 71°F (22°C). This graph shows how an average day looks like in Manila in September based on historical data.

Visiting Manila? See our Manila Trip Planner.

Historical temperature average in September

General weather summary, what to wear in september, best attractions for manila in september.

Top searches in Manila

Popular road trips from manila, what's the weather like in manila.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Manila for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Manila in January
• Weather in Manila in February
• Weather in Manila in March
• Weather in Manila in April
• Weather in Manila in May
• Weather in Manila in June
• Weather in Manila in July
• Weather in Manila in August
• Weather in Manila in October
• Weather in Manila in November
• Weather in Manila in December

All road trips from Manila

• Manila to Malay drive
• Manila to Baguio drive
• Manila to Cebu City drive
• Manila to Puerto Galera drive
• Manila to Vigan drive
• Manila to Sagada drive
• Manila to Baler drive
• Manila to Subic Bay Freeport Zone drive
• Manila to Legazpi drive
• Manila to Davao City drive
• Manila to Bolinao drive
• Manila to Batangas City drive
• Manila to Iloilo City drive
• Manila to Pagudpud drive
• Manila to Laoag drive
• Manila to Banaue drive
• Manila to Tacloban drive
• Manila to Paoay drive
• Manila to Donsol drive

Explore nearby places

• Mandaluyong
• Quezon City
• Taguig City
• Cavite City
• Antipolo City
• Meycauayan City

All related maps of Manila

• Map of Manila
• Map of San Juan
• Map of Mandaluyong
• Map of Caloocan
• Map of Malabon
• Map of Makati
• Map of Quezon City
• Map of Pasay
• Map of Pasig
• Map of Taguig City
• Map of Valenzuela
• Map of Plaridel
• Map of Obando
• Map of Marikina
• Map of Paranaque
• Map of Cavite City
• Map of Antipolo City
• Map of Cainta
• Map of Taytay
• Map of Las Pinas
• Map of Marilao
• Map of Kawit
• Map of San Mateo
• Map of Imus
• Map of Bacoor
• Map of Meycauayan City
• Map of Angono
• Map of Muntinlupa
• Map of Bocaue
• Map of Bulacan
• Map of Teresa

Manila throughout the year

• Manila in January
• Manila in February
• Manila in March
• Manila in April
• Manila in May
• Manila in June
• Manila in July
• Manila in August
• Manila in September
• Manila in October
• Manila in November
• Manila in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Manila?

Get inspired for your trip to Manila with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Manila Itinerary
• 2-Day Manila Itinerary
• 3-Day Manila Itinerary
• 4-Day Manila Itinerary
• 5-Day Manila Itinerary

• Itinerary + map in one view
• Live collaboration
• Auto-import hotels and reservations
• Optimize your route
• Offline access on mobile
• See time and distance between all your places

• Philippines Tours
• Philippines Travel Guide
• When to visit the Philippines

Philippines in September: Weather, Travel Tips, and More

• ~ mins read

You’d be hard-pressed to travel around the Philippines in September without getting soaked. Situated in the center of the rainy season, this wet and wild monsoon month is bound to bring a downpour or two. The upside to all these downpours? Touring the Philippines in September means lower prices and thinner tourist crowds. The Visayas archipelago receives less than half that rainfall but not enough to spoil island-hopping trips. The inner Visayan Islands, such as Negros and Cebu, enjoy some shelter from typhoons and the monsoon. Southern highlights like Siargao, Cagayan de Oro, and Davao offer even drier weather this time of year.

• Tom Walters
• From England

The Philippines Weather in September

September sits in the middle of the Philippines monsoon season, which usually runs from June to November. During this rainy season month, Luzon received an average rainfall of 432 millimeters. The Visayas region meanwhile gets an average rain of 160 millimeters. Average maximum temperatures typically reach 30°C, with lows of around 25°C. Expect cool, comfortable temperatures when it’s overcast and hot, humid weather when the sun is out. September is also prime time for typhoons. So keep a close eye on the news and get ready to change your travel plans accordingly.

For a complete seasonal overview, check out our article on the best time to visit the Philippines .

Why Visit the Philippines in September

Although it’s not ideal for working on your tan, there are plenty of reasons to consider a trip to the Philippines in September. Here are some of them:

• Low prices: Beachside resorts in sought-after destinations slash their rack rates during the wet season. You’ll find killer deals on international and domestic airfares, too.
• Fewer people: Dreaming of seeing world-renowned destinations like Boracay without the thick tourist throngs? There’s no better time to visit than September.
• Lush landscapes: Forget about parched pastures and wilting palm trees. The green season sees the landscapes burst into vibrant, verdant hues.
• Surfing: Big wet season swells see huge waves hit the surfing mecca of Siargao. Thrill-seekers can careen down tumultuous Mindanao rivers on a white-water-rafting adventure.

Where to Go and What to Do in the Philippines in September

While you get higher-than-average rainfall everywhere in September, some Filipino islands are less wetter than others.

The southern island of Mindanao, for example, doesn’t get anywhere near as much rain as Luzon. Popular destinations on the island include Davao, Siargao and Cagayan de Oro. Whitewater rafting is superb in September when the rivers in the Philippines bulge due to the deluge of rain. Cagayan de Oro (in Mindanao) boasts some of the best on-river action.

Just off Mindanao, Siargao is a popular tropical paradise island with excellent year-round surfing conditions. The biggest swell hits in September, when world-famous breaks like Cloud Nine welcome skilled surfers from around the globe.

Interested in the Visayas? The lesser-known eastern Visayas islands of Samar and Leyte receive relatively little rainfall, perfect for off-the-beaten-track adventures. Central Visayan Islands like Cebu and Negros also get some shelter from the monsoon. Inland attractions like sightseeing tours in Cebu and canyoneering the Kawasan Falls are a safer bet in September than beach bumming or island hopping.

Although Luzon gets drenched in September, it’s a good month to tour Manila if you don’t mind spending time indoors. The capital’s hedonistic nightlife still hums while its glam malls and restaurants continue to trade.

Wherever you decide to go, be aware the rainy season brings big swells to the seas surrounding the archipelago. Keep an eye on the weather and stick to larger boats run by reputable, well-known ferry companies.

Planning a trip to the Philippines in September?

Planning a trip to the Philippines in September can be a good idea if you are looking for cheaper rates and quiet beaches. But your options for beach hopping, seaside frolicking and other outdoor activities will be limited. So it is advisable to stick to drier destinations like Siargao, Cebu and Eastern Visayas — and keep your itinerary flexible in case of rainfall. A tricky proposition but not impossible.

Make sure to read our Philippines travel guide before planning your trip. You can also contact our local travel experts to plan a customized tour to the Philippines .

Related Articles

Philippines in January: Weather, Crowds and More

The picture-postcard beauty of the Philippine... read more

Philippines in February: Weather, Attractions and More

Beaches brimming with vibrant activities, lan... read more

The Philippines in March: Weather, Events and More

A trip to the Philippines in March makes for ... read more

Philippines in April: Weather, Activities and More

From attending the Boracay International Drag... read more

Philippines in June : Weather, Tips and More

June sees the start of the monsoon season in ... read more

Philippines in July: Weather, Rates, and More

The Philippines in July is humid and rainy, b... read more

Philippines in August: Weather, Beaches and More

As August falls smack in the middle of the ra... read more

Philippines in October: Weather, Tips and More

From buzzing festivals to incredible hikes, v... read more

Philippines in November: Weather, Festivals and More

With the monsoon season coming to an end, the... read more

Philippines in December: Weather, Festivals, and More

December is a fantastic time to tour the Phil... read more

Related Categories

• How Long To Spend In Philippines
• Philippines Travel Advice
• When To Visit The Philippines
• Previous Post

Popular Destinations

• Europe Tours
• Everest Base Camp Trek
• Italy Tours
• Spain Tours
• Argentina Tours
• Canada Tours
• Sri Lanka Tours
• Chile Tours
• Antarctica Tours

32 Things to do in The Philippines + Tourist Spots

After visiting 69 of 82 provinces in the Philippines, I’ve had countless beautiful experiences in this archipelagic country of over 7,600 islands. If you’re looking for places to add to your Philippines Itinerary, then this guide is for you!

Let’s start with a list of top destinations that are both easy to reach and exceptionally beautiful. If you’re traveling to the Philippines for the first time, these are the highlights you don’t want to miss. You fit  all these places into a two-week itinerary.

Next, I’m going to share the stand-outs. They may not be as easy to get to, but I highly recommend visiting if you’re adventurous and want to see places that truly stand out.

Lastly, I’ve included a long list of popular and interesting destinations in the Philippines so you can enjoy a virtual tour of what my home country has to offer. Consider visiting if you have an extended trip planned in the Philippines or if you’re a fellow Pinoy looking for places to go on your next holiday.”

The Philippines Tourist Spots

What to do & where to go in The Philippines? I got you! Here are places to visit, interesting attractions & things to do in The Philippines for your bucketlist/itinerary.

5. Boracay Island & Aklan

6. balabac islands, 7. batanes islands, 9. banaue, ifugao, 14. puerto princesa, 15. iloilo & guimaras, 16. clark & pampanga, 18. cagayan de oro & beyond, 19. dumaguete & negros oriental, 20. legazpi, bicol & mayon volcano, 21. tacloban, leyte, 22. baguio & benguet, 23. subic bay, 24. tagaytay & taal volcano, 25. lake sebu, 26. laoag & ilocos norte, 27. siquijor, 28. port barton & san vicente, 29. caramoan, 30. calaguas, 31. biri islands, samar, 32. enchanted river & surigao del sur.

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

View more travel tips in:   Singapore ,  ALL Destinations .

Find this guide helpful? Share the love & follow Detourista for travel inspo on:  Instagram ,  Facebook ,  Tiktok ,  Pinterest .

Top Spots For First-Timers

Cloud 9 Boardwalk sunset in General Luna, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte, Philippines

Siargao made its first claim to fame as the Philippines’ surfing capital, and recently as the “Best Island in the World” (awarded by Condé Nast readers for 2018).This paradise has been on my favorites list ever since my first trip to the island a decade ago. What impressed me the most were the enchanting lagoons of Sohoton Cove, a natural wonder that’s well worth the 2-hour detour from the Cloud 9 surfing beach. The main island is filled with pristine natural spots as well, including white sand beaches, stunning islets, vast coconut forests, cool tidal pools & more.If you want to enjoy a laidback island lifestyle, Siargao is one of the best places that tourists can go to. You’ll find a mix of “foreign” and “local” here. It is remote yet accessible, and not too crowded despite the coming of new developments in recent years.

Location  — Surigao del Norte province, Caraga Region, Northeast Mindanao. Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Located along the eastern coast of the Philippines (facing the Pacific Ocean), Siargao is best reached by air. Fly direct to Sayak Airport (IAO) in Siargao Island from Manila, Cebu, or Clark. Flight duration is 2 hours from Manila or 1 hour from Cebu. From the airport, the land trip to Cloud 9 beach, the main tourist area, takes around 45 minutes. You can also reach Siargao by taking a flight to Surigao Airport (SUG), found in mainland Mindanao. Then, hop on a 1.5-hour fastcraft ferry to Dapa Port in Siargao Island.

Siargao Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts Check Fares

Top discounts

Siargao Surfing Lessons

Siargao Island Hopping (Daily) – Daku Island, Guyam Island, & Naked Island Day Tour

Sohoton Cove & Siargao Island Hopping Day Trip

Marcos at Magpupungko Rock Formation in Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte, Philippines Magpupungko Rock Formation, Siargao Island

Cloud 9 surfing in General Luna, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte, Philippines Cloud 9 surfing, Siargao Island

Cloud 9 Beach in General Luna, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte, Philippines Cloud 9 beach, Siargao Island

Sohoton Lagoons in Bucas Grade Island, Surigao del Norte, Philippines Sohoton Lagoons near Siargao Island

Cloud 9 Boardwalk surfers in General Luna, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte, Philippines Cloud 9 Boardwalk, Siargao Island

See more : Siargao travel tips

Matinloc Island in El Nido, Palawan, Philippines

You came to the country to see spectacular beaches and island views. El Nido in Palawan province will not disappoint. In terms of spectacular “over-the-water” sea views, El Nido is my favorite in the Philippines. Imagine hidden lagoons, uninhabited white sand beaches, and massive forest-covered limestone mountains rising out of pristine tropical waters. The “SEAnery” here rivals popular destinations in Asia like Phi Phi/Krabi Islands (Thailand) and Ha Long Bay (Vietnam).The experience of spending a whole day out on the islands is nothing short of incredible. The area of Bacuit Bay is spread over a large area, so spend at least two full days for the island hopping tours (Tour A & Tour C are the best).

Location  — Northern Palawan province, MIMAROPA Region (West Central Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Most travelers arrive in El Nido on a 1.5-hour flight from Manila to Puerto Princesa Airport (PPS), followed by a 5 to 6-hour shuttle ride to El Nido town proper. If you want to skip the long land journey, fly directly to El Nido from Manila (1 hour), Cebu or Boracay-Caticlan. This is the fastest but more expensive way.

El Nido Travel Essentials

El Nido Tour A – Lagoons and Beaches Island Hopping

El Nido Tour C – Hidden Beaches and Shrines Island Hopping

Puerto Princesa – El Nido Shuttle Transfers

Secret Lagoon Beach in Miniloc Island, El Nido, Palawan, Philippines Secret Lagoon Beach in El Nido, Palawan

Calitang Beach, at Nacpan-Calitang Twin Beaches, in El Nido, Palawan, Philippines Calitang Beach, El Nido

Overlooking Bacuit Bay Islands of El Nido from Taraw Peak, in Palawan, Philippines Overlooking El Nido from Taraw Peak

Umbrella Beach in Miniloc Island, El Nido, Palawan, Philippines Umbrella Beach in Miniloc Island, El Nido

See more : El Nido travel tips

Pro-tip:  To make your trip planning easier, I’ve added links to the pin locations on Google Maps. Use the ‘save’ feature on the app to see all your saved locations on one map, visualize your itinerary, and know the best areas to stay near the places you want to go.

Philippines Travel Essentials

Before we go with the rest of the list, here are travel essentials you might need for a hassle-free trip. Click below to see discounts & read traveler reviews.

Where to stay in The Philippines:

Book here Compare rates

Recommended The Philippines Hotels:

Money-saving tip : Use promo code “ KLOOKDETOURISTA ” to grab 5% OFF hotels and 3% OFF tours/activities next time you book on Klook.

Popular tours & discounts booked by other travelers:

Island Hopping in Boracay

Enchanted Kingdom Admission Ticket

Manila Ocean Park Attraction Pass

Cebu Ocean Park Ticket

Tours + discounts Flights Airport transfers WIFI Internet/Data SIM

Kayangan Lake in Coron, Palawan, Philippines. Photo by David Köhler .

In contrast to El Nido’s amazing “over water” views, go to Coron for spectacular underwater views. Here, you can see colorful coral gardens, pristine waters, lots of marine life, and even sunken WWII Japanese shipwrecks. Don’t get me wrong, Coron can hold its own when it comes to scenic views over the water as well. This paradise is home to hidden emerald/blue lagoons surrounded by limestone cliffs. There’s no shortage of incredibly beautiful fine white sand beaches in Coron either.

How to go —  Coron Airport is located on the north side of Busuanga Island. Travel time by plane is around 1 hour from Manila. For adventurous travelers who want to maximize their trip in Palawan, you can travel by ferry between Coron and El Nido (mainland Palawan). Travel time is around 4 hours by fastcraft (high-speed ferry).

Coron Travel Essentials

Coron Super Ultimate Day Tour

Coron-Busuanga Airport Shuttle – Shared and Private Transfers

Coron Ultimate Tour

See more : Coron travel tips

Marcos at Osmeña Peak in Dalaguete, Cebu

Cebu is the country’s #1 most visited tourist destination, and for good reason. It is unrivaled in offering the widest range of things to do and attractions. Cebu is like the “Jack of all trades” among tourist spots in the Philippines.You can enjoy scenic natural sites (waterfalls, beaches, mountain views etc.), have exciting wildlife encounters, join a colonial heritage tour, shop at some of the World’s largest malls, or indulge yourself in local food including the prized Cebu Lechon! You can do all of these easily while staying at a luxury resort in Mactan Island, centrally located hotel/airbnb in the city, or a peaceful beachfront resort in the countryside. Your choice!If that’s not enough, you can easily hop to nearby islands like Bohol, Negros (Dumaguete) or other major cities. Take full advantage of Cebu’s strategic location in Central Philippines and well-connected flight/ferry network.

Location  — Central Visayas (Central Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Cebu-Mactan International Airport in Mactan Island serves direct flights from all major cities in the Philippines as well as international flights from Asia and North America. Flight duration is 1h30m from Manila, 3h 40m from Singapore and 2h50m from Hong Kong. From the airport, the ride to Cebu City center usually takes 30 minutes to 1 hour (or more, depending on traffic conditions).

Cebu Travel Essentials

Cebu-Tagbilaran, Bohol OceanJet Ferry Ticket

Cebu Airport Private Transfers – for Cebu City, Mactan & more

Bohol Day Tour from Cebu

Shangri-la Mactan Resort in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, Philippines Shangri-la Mactan Resort, Cebu

The Heritage of Cebu Monument in Cebu City, Philippines The Heritage of Cebu Monument

Canyoneering near Kawasan Falls, Badian, Cebu, Philippines Kawasan-Badian Canyoneering in Cebu

Santiago Bay Beach in Camotes Islands, Cebu, Philippines Camotes Islands, Cebu, Philippines

Sirao Flower Garden in Cebu City, Philippines Sirao Flower Garden, Cebu City

See more : Cebu travel tips

Marcos at White Beach, in Boracay, Malay, Aklan, Philippines

Boracay is a vacationer’s paradise. Taking center stage is 4-kilometer White Beach, prized for its incredibly inviting blue waters, fine white sand, and perfect sunsets. This island is the place to go if you want to take it easy and you’re looking forward to enjoying a tropical resort experience. As you can expect, Boracay caters to a more upscale crowd, but don’t fret, there are many budget-friendly options available.Boracay is small but packs a lot of attractions. Here you can find excellent dining, a wide variety of places to stay, souvenir shopping, and lots of fun water activities, and some nightlife all in one sandy stretch.Boracay’s White Beach is a class of its own when it comes to how fine and white the sand is. From my extensive travels in the country, there’s only one lengthy beach that has sand whiter and finer than White Beach. You can find it in the group of islands featured next on this list.

Location  — Aklan province, Western Visayas region (Central Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Touchdown at either Boracay-Caticlan Airport (MPH) or Kalibo International Airport (KLO). From Caticlan, the ferry to Boracay only takes less than 20 minutes. Most travelers transit via Kalibo because the airport serves more airlines/flights/destinations and airfares are usually lower. The land trip from Kalibo to Caticlan tales around 1 hour.

Boracay Travel Essentials

Sunset Paraw Sailing in Boracay

Caticlan Airport-Boracay Hotel Shared Transfers – Shuttle+Ferry Ticket

Sunset at White Beach, in Boracay, Malay, Aklan, Philippines Sunset view from Boracay Island

White Beach in Boracay, Malay, Aklan, Philippines White Beach, Boracay

View from Mt. Luho facing White Beach, in Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan, Philippines Mt. Luho view

Kite surfing at Bulabog Beach, in Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan, Philippines Boracay kite surfing

Ati-atihan Festival warriors in Kalibo, Aklan, Philippines Kalibo Ati-atihan Festival in Aklan

See more : Boracay Island & Aklan travel tips

The Standouts

These places take more time to visit but are well worth the journey if you’re up for an adventure.

Onuk Island – Roughton Island in Balabac, Palawan, Philippines

If you’re looking for the best beaches & most vibrant waters in the Philippines, look nowhere else. Balabac is worth a spot at the VERY TOP of your bucketlist.Balabac is the southernmost group of islands in Palawan. It is so far south that Sabah, in East Malaysia is nearer to Balabac than Puerto Princesa, the provincial capital of Palawan.The main draw here are 31 gorgeous islands still vastly undiscovered by tourist crowds. These islands are surrounded by pristine, crystal clear waters and white sand beaches. Yes, the sandy shores of many beaches here are a blinding white to off-white, many even have a blushed pink hue! The best spots you shouldn’t miss in Balabac are (1) Onuk Island & its crystal blue waters sprawling as far as the eye can see; (2) Bugsuk Island, home to the most powdery, whitest sand beach in the Philippines; and (3) the pink sand beach at Camiaran Island.

Location  — Southern Palawan province, MIMAROPA Region (West Central Philippines)

How to go —  The most convenient jump-off point to the Balabac Islands is Buliluyan Port, located at the southernmost tip of mainland Palawan. From Puerto Princesa Airport (the nearest commercial airport), the land trip to Buliluyan Port takes around 5-6 hours. For a hassle-free trip, arrange your Balabac tour well ahead (before your trip) with a local tour operator. See the list and detailed travel tips at the  Balabac Travel Guide .

Punta Sebaring Beach in Bugsuk Island, Balabac, Palawan, Philippines Punta Sebaring Beach, Bugsuk Island, Balabac

Camiaran “Pink” Island, in Balabac, Palawan, Philippines Camiaran “Pink” Island, Balabac

Nasubata Reef – Pulau Bato in Balabac, Palawan, Philippines Nasubata Reef – Pulau Bato

Sicsican Island in Balabac, Palawan, Philippines Sicsican Island

Canabungan Island in Balabac, Palawan, Philippines Canabungan Island

Balabac is remote and not easy to reach, which is why I don’t readily recommend the place to first-timers. You must really want to visit this place. It takes time to visit and you’ll have to let go of touristic conveniences.

Batanes, Philippines. Photo by Rexy Quieta .

Previously, many readers have asked me why I did not include Batanes as one of the best places to go in the Philippines. The answer is simple: I haven’t been there yet. It’s still on my bucketlist! But due to popular demand, I am including Batanes now. So, comment below if you have a place in mind that you think should be included! I might have to add it to my bucketlist too.Batanes is the northernmost province of the Philippines. These remote islands are shaped by volcanic forces and strong typhoons. The natural landscape of Batanes is distinct from other parts of the Philippines. Here, you’ll find vibrant green rolling hills, grazing cows, steep seaside cliffs, sparkling clear blue waters, traditional stone houses, and iconic lighthouses.Travelers often describe its Batanes’ beauty as wild, overwhelming, and incredibly scenic. Looking at pictures and vlogs, I can see why it’s a popular choice among adventure seekers.

Location  — Cagayan Valley region (Northern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Touchdown at Basco Airport, located on Batan, the main island of Batanes. Travel time by plane is 2 hours from Manila or 1h40m from Clark. Airlines that fly to Batanes include Philippine Airlines and Skyjet. Flights to Batanes are a lot more expensive compared to other destinations in the Philippines. Expect regular roundtrip fares to cost upwards of P10,000.

Batanes Travel Essentials

Where to stay Check Fares

Batanes-Basco Airport Shuttle – BSO Private Transfers

3 Day North Batan, South Batan, and Sabtang Island Tour

2 Day North Batan and South Batan Tour

Pongas Falls in Sagada, Mountain Province, Philippines

The Philippines isn’t just all about postcard-perfect beaches. It has cool highland destinations too! If you want to be close to nature and the Philippines’ mountain culture, venture north of Manila and visit Sagada. You can find this small town high in the mist-covered Cordillera (mountain range) of Northern Luzon.Surrounded by spectacular mountain views, Sagada is most-known for the bizarre hanging coffins, a burial tradition that has survived for over 2,000 years. When in town, don’t miss the cave connection tour (Sumaging-Lumiang Cave), sunrise view from above a sea of clouds at Kiltepan Peak, the local coffee (best in PH) & hike to the many waterfalls in the area including Bomod-ok Falls and Pongas Falls.

Location  — Sagada, Mountain Province, Cordillera region, Luzon (Northern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  The bus trip to Sagada from Manila takes around 12 hours. Buses usually depart at 9pm (onwards) from Cubao, Quezon City. You can also catch a bus to Sagada from Baguio. Travel time from Baguio to Sagada is 5-6 hours by bus.

Sagada Travel Essentials

Sumaguing Cave, in Sagada, Mountain Province, Philippines Marcos at Sumaguing Cave, Sagada

Hanging coffins at Echo Valley, Sagada, Mountain Province, Philippines Sagada hanging coffins, Mountain Province

Kapay-aw Rice Terraces in Sagada, Mountain Province, Philippines Kapay-aw Rice Terraces, Sagada

Bomod-ok Falls and Aguinid Rice Terraces, in Sagada, Mountain Province, Philippines 041 Bomod-ok Falls and Aguinid Rice Terraces, in Sagada-150211-082531

See more : Sagada travel tips

Banaue Rice Terraces in Banaue, Ifugao, Philippines

Banaue is home to the famous Banaue Rice Terraces, another must-see attraction in the Cordillera region. Hand-carved by the Ifugao people some 2,000 years ago, these extraordinary rice paddies are terraced like staircases for giants and follows the contours of entire mountainsides. Banaue is also the gateway to the Ifugao Rice Terraces, included in UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites.Have a memorable local experience by spending the night at a homestay in one of the small villages like Batad or Banga-an. Get immersed in the culture of the Ifugao people, wake-up to a view of the rice terraces with a hot cup of local coffee, and go on the breathtaking hike to Tappiya Waterfalls.

Location  — Ifugao province, Cordillera Region. Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  The bus journey to Banaue from Manila takes around 8-9 hours. Bus departures from Manila are in the late evening hours (8pm to 10pm). So, expect to arrive early morning. You can also reach Banaue easily from other destinations in the Cordillera region. The land journey to Banaue takes around 3 hours from Sagada and 6 hours from Baguio

Banaue Travel Essentials

Tappiya Falls near Batad Rice Terraces in Banaue, Ifugao, Philippines Tappiya Falls near Batad Rice Terraces

Igorot farmers at Kiangan Rice Terraces & Open Air Museum, in Kiangan, Ifugao, Philippines Igorot farmers at Kiangan Rice Terraces & Open Air Museum

Batad Rice Terraces near Banaue in Ifugao, Philippines Batad Rice Terraces near Banaue, Ifugao

Bangaan Rice Terraces in Banaue, Ifugao, Philippines Bangaan Rice Terraces near Banaue

Banaue Rice Terraces viewpoint, in Banaue, Ifugao, Philippines Banaue Rice Terraces, Ifugao

See more : Banaue, Ifugao travel tips

Calle Crisologo in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, Philippines

Vigan is the best-preserved Spanish-colonial town in Asia. If you’re a lover of old cities, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit.You’ll feel like you’ve traveled back in time (to 16th-century Philippines) as you explore Vigan. This heritage city is filled with cobblestone paths, horse-drawn carriages, centuries-old churches, and buildings. Get the ultimate Vigan experience by booking your room at one of the old Spanish-colonial homes.

Location  — Ilocos Norte province, Ilocos region, Luzon (Northern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  The nearest airport to Vigan is Laoag Airport, which serves direct flights from Manila. This journey takes around 2 hours (1-hour flight duration PLUS 2-hour land trip). You can also reach Vigan by bus. The land trip takes around 8-9 hours from Manila.

Vigan Travel Essentials

Calle Crisologo in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, Philippines Calle Crisologo, Vigan

See more : Vigan travel tips

Marcos at Tinago Falls in Iligan City, Lanao del Norte, Philippines

Iligan the “City of Majestic Waterfalls” deserves a spot on your bucketlist if you’re a lover of waterfalls (like me). This city in Northern Mindanao is home to many of the  Philippines’ most beautiful waterfalls . My favorites in Iligan include (1) Tinago Falls with its incredibly enchanting blue-green pool surrounded by the rainforest, (2) Maria Cristina Falls (massive twin waterfall), and the remote (3) Limunsudan Falls (the highest two-tiered waterfall in the Philippines).

Location  — Lanao del Norte province, Northern Mindanao region (Southern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Touchdown at Cagayan de Oro-Laguindingan Airport (CGY), which serves direct flights from Manila, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Clark, and Dumaguete. Flight duration is 1h and 40m from Manila or 1h from Cebu. From Laguindingan Airport, the land trip to Iligan City takes around 1.5 hours.

Iligan Travel Essentials

Where to stay

Limunsudan Falls in Iligan City, Lanao del Norte, Philippines Limunsudan Falls, Iligan

Maria Cristina Falls in Iligan City, Lanao del Norte, Philippines Maria Cristina Falls, Iligan City

See more : Iligan travel tips

Popular & Easy To Visit

Sharing these major flight gateways and popular tourist destinations. All of these places have their own special set of bucketlist-worthy attractions. This just goes to show that you can find beautiful spots all over the Philippines and how incredibly difficult it is to select just a few, to make this list of best places to visit. The destinations mentioned below are not listed by rank.

Marcos at Fort Santiago, in Intramuros, Manila City, Metro Manila, Philippines

Manila offers many attractions for travelers. Historic Intramuros is a good place to start. This walled city is filled with Spanish-era architecture including the Manila Cathedral, Fort Santiago, and San Agustin Church (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Meanwhile, Makati and Bonifacio Global City (BGC) are the best places to go to experience the nightlife, hip food scene, and the modern side of the city. Beat the tropical heat & shop at Manila’s massive malls. Metro Manila is home to many of the World’s largest malls including the ever-expanding Mall of Asia. Looking for a place to go near the airport? Visit the entertainment districts such as Newport City, City of Dreams, Solaire Resort, and Okada Manila.

Location  — Metro Manila capital region, Luzon (Northern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) is the main international gateway and domestic flight hub of the Philippines. The Manila-NAIA Airport is located in the cities of Pasay and Paranaque (among the 16 cities that comprise the Metro Manila area). Manila does not have a very good public transport system. For safe and easy rides around the metro, use a ride-hailing app like Grab.

Manila Travel Essentials

Manila-Luzon Shuttle – Tagaytay, Baguio, Laguna, La Union & more

National Museum of Natural History in Manila City, Philippines National Museum of Natural History, Manila

Intramuros Walled City in Manila City, Metro Manila, Philippines Intramuros Walled City, Manila

San Sebastian Cathedral interiors, in Metro Manila, Philippines San Sebastian Cathedral

Dusk view of Makati's skyline, from Top of the Citi by Chef jessie (rooftop bar), in Makati City, Metro Manila, Philippines Makati Skyline at Dusk

Bonifacio High Street in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, Metro Manila, Philippines Bonifacio High Street

See more : Manila travel tips

Chocolate Hills sunrise view in Carmen, Bohol, Philippines

Bohol is home to two of the Philippines’ most iconic attractions, often shown on tourism ads: The Chocolate Hills, and the bug-eyed Tarsier, one of the World’s smallest primates. This island in Central Philippines (near Cebu) offers so much more.In Panglao, you can stay at a nice hotel at one of the island’s many white-sand beach areas, go island hopping, enjoy diving, join an island hopping tour, and possibly have a dolphin encounter. If that’s not enough, you can enjoy a relaxing cruise along the pristine Loboc River, see the old Spanish-colonial heritage churches, Can-umantad waterfalls, Cadapdapan Rice Terraces, and remote Anda White Beach.If you plan to visit Cebu, then Bohol should be on your bucketlist too as you can easily see most of Bohol’s major tourist spots on a one-day tour from Cebu City.

How to go —  Touchdown at Bohol-Panglao International Airport (TAG), which serves direct flights from Manila, Clark, Davao and Cagayan de Oro. Travel time from Manila to Bohol is 1 hour by plane. You can also go by ferry from Cebu. Travel time from Cebu to Bohol is around 2 hours by fastcraft ferry.

Bohol Travel Essentials

Bohol Countryside Tour w/ Buffet Lunch

Bohol Private Car Charter

Cebu-Bohol Supercat Ferry Ticket (One Way or Round Trip)

Dumaluan Beach in Bolod, Panglao Island, Philippines Dumaluan Beach in Panglao, Bohol

Loboc River Cruise in Bohol, Philippines. Photo by Michelle Simtoco Loboc River Cruise, Bohol

Doljo Beach in Panglao Island, Bohol, Philippines Doljo Beach, Panglao Island

Can-Umantad Falls in Candijay, Bohol, Philippines Can-Umantad Falls, Bohol

Baclayon Church, Bohol

See more : Bohol travel tips

Puerto Princesa Underground River in Palawan, Philippines

Puerto Princesa is the capital and major flight gateway in Palawan. If you’re visiting El Nido, then Puerto Princesa, “The City in the Forest,” is worth a stopover. Start with a trip to Puerto Princesa Underground River, the 2nd longest navigable underground river in the world, listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and New7Wonders of Nature. Then, spend a day beach bumming and snorkeling on an island hopping tour around Honda Bay. Don’t leave without going on the city tour and feasting on fresh seafood.

Location  — Central Palawan province, MIMAROPA Region (West Central Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Puerto Princesa is 1.5 hours southwest of Manila by plane. Princesa International Airport serves direct flights from Manila, Cebu, Iloilo, Clark, and Davao. You can also go by ferry from Manila or Iloilo (on the RORO ferry-bus).

Puerto Princesa Travel Essentials

Puerto Princesa Underground River Day Tour w/ Buffet Lunch

Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour

Sabang Beach near Puerto Princesa Underground River, Palawan, Philippines Sabang Beach near Puerto Princesa Underground River

Starfish Island in Honda Bay, Puerto Princesa, Palawan, Philippines Starfish Island in Honda Bay, Puerto Princesa

The Baywalk in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, Philippines The Baywalk in Puerto Princesa

Kinabuch's Seafood dinner, in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, Philipines Kinabuch's, Puerto Princesa City

See more : Puerto Princesa travel tips

Journey to Heaven, at Garin Pilgrimage Resort in San Joaquin, Iloilo

This is my home, Iloilo! Located at the country’s geographical center, Iloilo is also known as the “Heart of the Philippines.” It is famous for its well-preserved heritage sites, distinct native cuisine, cheap seafood, and pristine natural sites.Bustling yet relaxed Iloilo City is one of the most livable cities in the country. A highly urbanized city that’s keen on preserving its cultural and natural heritage. Within an hour’s travel from the city center, you can find yourself along a peaceful beach in Guimaras Island, home to the World’s sweetest mangoes. Head to the islands of Gigantes, Sicogon, and Concepcion to see the stunning seascapes of Northern Iloilo. A drive to the south takes you to centuries-old Spanish-colonial churches including the Miagao Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From Iloilo, you can also go on a land trip to other provinces in Panay Island — Antique, Capiz (Roxas City), and Aklan (Boracay).

Location  — Western Visayas region (Central Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Touchdown at Iloilo Airport, which serves direct flights from/to major airports in the Philippines, as well as Hong Kong and Singapore. Travel time to Iloilo by plane is 1h15m from Manila and 50m from Cebu. The airport also serves direct flights from/to Davao, Clark, Puerto Princesa, Cagayan de Oro and General Santos.

Iloilo Travel Essentials

Bacolod-Iloilo OceanJet Ferry Ticket

Iloilo Airport-Iloilo City Hotel Shuttle – ILO Private and Shared Transfers

Gigantes Islands Day Tour from Iloilo City

Calle Real in Iloilo City, Philippines Calle Real in Iloilo City

Tangke Lagoon in Gigantes Sur Island, Carles, Iloilo, Philippines Tangke Lagoon, Gigantes, Iloilo

Tatlong Pulo Beach in Jordan, Guimaras, Philippines Tatlong Pulo, Guimaras

Miagao Church in Miagao, Iloilo, Philippines Miagao Church, Iloilo

Balvan View in Tubungan, Iloilo, Philippines Balvan View, Tubungan, Iloilo

See more : Iloilo & Guimaras travel tips

Puning Hot Springs in Sapang Bato, Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines

Located within a 2-3 hour drive north of Manila, Clark Airport is a major flight hub and alternative international gateway to the Philippines. Clark is a rapidly developing tourist destination and economic zone. It’s home to Aqua Planet Waterpark, PH’s largest waterpark, and other themed attractions such as Dinosaur Island. From Clark, you can enjoy a heritage tour of nearby Angeles City and sample the famous food of Pampanga, the Culinary Capital of the Philippines.Clark is also a popular jump-off point to explore the Central Luzon provinces of Zambales, Tarlac, Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, and Aurora. The best things to do in this region include the (1) offroad adventure to Puning Hot Springs, (2) Mount Pinatubo summit crater trek, (3) Las Casas Filipinas De Acuzar heritage resort, (4) Zambales’ scenic beaches, (5) Subic Bay, and the (6) surfing town of Baler.

Location  — Clark Freeport, Pampanga region, Luzon (Northern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Clark Airport serves both domestic and international flights. Because of its location near Manila, it often serves as an alternative to congested Manila-NAIA Airport. Travel time from Manila to Clark is around 2-3 hours. Clark Airport is located within Clark Freeport Zone, which occupies part of Angeles City, Pampanga. The drive between Clark Airport & Angeles City center takes around 20 minutes.

Clark Travel Essentials

Dinosaurs Island Clark Admission Ticket

Zoocobia Admission Ticket in Clark

Clark Safari and Adventure Park Ticket

Pampanga Sisig, at Mila's Tokwa't Baboy in Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines Pampanga Sisig, at Mila's Tokwa't Baboy

Holy Rosary Parish Church in Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines Holy Rosary Parish Church, Angeles City, Pampanga

Aqua Planet in Clark, Pampanga, Philippines Aqua Planet, Clark

Marcos at Mount Pinatubo crater lake in Central Luzon, Philippines Mount Pinatubo crater lake, Philippines

See more : Clark & Pampanga travel tips

Isla Reta beachfront in Talucud Island, Samal, Davao del Norte, Philippines

Considering a trip to Southern Philippines? Start with Davao City, the largest urban center in Mindanao. Located at the foot of Mount Apo, the PH’s tallest mountain, this sprawling metropolis is where you can meet the great Philippine Eagle, get a taste of the infamous Durian fruit, and enjoy day trips to refreshing natural sites like Eden Nature Park and Samal Island. Of course, it is also the gateway to beautiful spots in Davao region and Mindanao.Samal Island is easily reached by ferry from Davao City. Enjoy a luxury stay at Pearl Farm Beach Resort, famous for its waterfront stilt cottages, or wander to the peaceful beaches of Talikud Island.

Location  — Davao region, Mindanao (Southern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Davao Airport is the busiest airport in Mindanao. Travel time by plane from Manila to Davao is 2 hours. From Davao Airport, it typically takes 30 minutes to get to Davao City center.

Davao Travel Essentials

Davao (DVO) Airport to Hotel/City Private Transfer

Davao 24hr COVID-19 RT-PCR and Rapid Antigen Testing

Davao COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Testing

Philippine Eagle Center, Davao City, Philippines Philippine Eagle Center, Davao

Eden Nature Park city view, in Davao City, Philippines Davao City view from Eden Nature Park

Jack's Ridge in Davao City, Philippines Jack's Ridge, Davao City

Monfort Bat Colony in Samal Island, Davao del Norte, Philippines Monfort Bat Colony, Samal Island

See more : Davao travel tips

Gardens of Malasag Eco-Tourism Village in Cagayan de Oro, Misamis Oriental, Philippines

Cagayan de Oro, the largest city in Northern Mindanao, is dubbed as the “Adventure Capital of the Philippines”. This city is famous for its white water river rafting, river tubing, paragliding, nature parks. Cagayan de Oro is also a convenient hub for tourists visiting the majestic waterfalls of Iligan, scenic sites of Camiguin Island, and cool attractions of Bukidnon province.

Location  — Northern Mindanao region (Southern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Touchdown at Cagayan de Oro-Laguindingan Airport (CGY), which serves direct flights from Manila, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Clark, and Dumaguete. Flight duration is 1h and 40m from Manila or 1h from Cebu. From Laguindingan Airport, the land trip to Cagayan de Oro City takes around 1 hour.

Cagayan de Oro Travel Essentials

Seven Seas Waterpark Ticket in Cagayan de Oro

Dahilayan Adventure Park Admission Ticket

Philippines Unlimited Data eSIM (QR Email Delivery)

High Ridge in Cagayan de Oro, Misamis Oriental, Philippines High Ridge, Cagayan de Oro

Dahilayan Adventure Park in Bukidnon, Philippines Dahilayan Adventure Park, Bukidnon

White Island in Camiguin, Philippines White Island, Camiguin

See more : Cagayan de Oro & beyond travel tips

Swimming with sea turtles at Apo Island, in Dauin, Oriental Negros, Philippines

Extremely chill Dumaguete is the jump-off point to Apo Island. If swimming with sea turtles is on your bucketlist, one of the best places to go is Apo Island, a protected marine sanctuary with sprawling coral gardens. From Dumaguete, you can also visit Siquijor Island and the many waterfalls, lakes & mountain resorts of Negros Oriental province.

Location  — Negros Oriental province, Central Visayas region (Central Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Dumaguete Airport is about an hour south of Manila by plane. You can also fly directly from Cebu. The flight only takes 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can get to Dumaguete by bus+ferry from Cebu. The bus+ferry journey takes around 6 hours.

Dumaguete Travel Essentials

Manjuyod Sandbar and Twin Lakes Tour

Siquijor Cambugahay Falls and Heritage Day Trip

Twin Lakes Natural Park with Dumaguete City Tour

Siliman University in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental, Philippines Siliman University, Dumaguete City

Casaroro Falls in Valencia, Oriental Negros Casaroro Falls, Negros Oriental

Dumaguete Boulevard at night, in Dumaguete City, Oriental Negros, Philippines Dumaguete Boulevard at night

See more : Dumaguete & Negros Oriental travel tips

Daraga Church & Mayon Volcano view from Daraga, near Legazpi City, Albay, Philippines

Legazpi is perhaps the most photogenic city in the Philippines. Here, the skyline view is dominated by Mayon Volcano, recognized as the World’s “perfect” cone-shaped volcano.Legazpi serves as the gateway to Bicol, a region famous for the whale shark watching in Donsol, Sorsogon, gorgeous islands of Caramoan (Camarines Sur), and Calaguas (Camarines Norte), Misibis Bay Resort, and of course, delicious Bicolano dishes (Bicol Express!).

Location  — Albay province, Bicol region, Luzon Island (Northern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  The fastest way to get to Legazpi is by air. Flight duration to Legazpi Airport is 1 hour from Manila or Cebu. Alternatively, you can also reach Legazpi by bus from Manila. The land trip takes around 9 to 12 hours.

Legazpi Travel Essentials

Cagsawa Ruins & Mayon Volcano in Daraga, near Legazpi City, Albay, Philippines Cagsawa Ruins, Daraga

Mayon Volcano view near Cagsawa ruins in Daraga, near Legazpi City, Albay, Philippines Mayon Volcano view near Cagsawa ruins, Albay

See more : Legazpi, Bicol & Mayon Volcano travel tips

San Juanico Bridge in Leyte-Samar, Philippines

Tacloban City, the regional capital of Eastern Visayas, is home to the San Juanico Bridge, the longest bridge in the Philippines and as the site of U.S. General Douglas MacArthur’s landing, a monumental event during WWII.Eastern Visayas is a region blessed with many of the Philippines’ most awe-inspiring natural sights including Kalanggaman Island’s insanely beautiful sandbar, the incredible rock formations of Biri Island, majestic waterfalls of Samar and alluring Sambawan Island in Biliran province.

Location  — Leyte province, Eastern Visayas region (Central Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Touchdown at Tacloban-Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport, which serves direct flights from/to Manila, Cebu, and Clark. Travel time from Manila to Tacloban is 1.5 hours by flight. From Tacloban Airport, the ride to the downtown area takes 15 minutes only.

Tacloban Travel Essentials

Philippines 4G Data eSIM (QR Email Delivery)

Asia 4G LTE WIFI Hotspot (Manila Airport Pick Up)

MacArthur Park in Tacloban City, Leyte, Philippines MacArthur Park

Sohoton Caves National Park in Basey, Samar, Philippines Sohoton Caves National Park

Kalanggaman Island in Palompon, Leyte, Philippines Kalanggaman Island

Tinago Falls in Caibiran, Biliran, Philippines Tinago Falls, Biliran

Sambawan Island in Maripipi, Biliran, Philippines Sambawan Island

See more : Tacloban, Leyte travel tips

Wright Park in Baguio City, Benguet, Philippines

Visit the Philippines’ summer capital. Baguio City offers a cool climate, urban comforts, pine-filled parks and an exciting food scene. There are a lot of fun day trips beyond the city as well such as the La Trinidad strawberry fields and flower farms in Benguet.

Location  — Benguet province, Cordillera region, Luzon Island (Northern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Land travel to Baguio is approximately 5-6 hours from Manila, 6 hours from Banaue, and 5-6 hours from Sagada.

Baguio Travel Essentials

La Trinidad strawberry fields in Baguio City, Benguet, Philippines La Trinidad strawberry fields near Baguio

Flower farms in Atok, Benguet, Philippines Atok flower farms, Benguet

Camp John Hay Golf Course in Baguio City, Benguet, Philippines Camp John Hay Golf Course, Baguio

Burnham Park Lake in Baguio City, Benguet, Philippines Burnham Park Lake, Baguio City

Bell Church in Baguio City, Benguet, Philippines Bell Church, Baguio City

See more : Baguio & Benguet travel tips

Subic Bay beachfront, near Olongapo City, Zambales

Subic Bay is a popular destination for themed attractions and natural sites. Subic’s top tourist spots include the Pamulaklakin Nature Park, Boardwalk Park, Zoobic Safari, Ocean Adventure, Inflatable Island & duty-Free shopping malls.

Location  — Zambales province, Central Luzon region (Northern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  The land trip to Subic takes around 2-4 hours from Manila or 1.5 hours from Clark. Aside from buses/shuttle that go directly to Subic, you can also get on buses bound for Olongapo (Zamables). Subic Bay Freeport Zone is a short 10-minute ride away from the bus terminal in Olongapo.

Subic Bay Travel Essentials

Zoobic Safari Admission Ticket in Subic

Ocean Adventure Admission Ticket in Subic Bay

Camayan Beach Resort Day Pass

See more : Subic Bay travel tips

Taal Volcano view from Tagaytay Twin Lakes in Batangas-Cavite, Philippines

Tagaytay is a popular go-weekend vacation spot near Manila? Go on a 2-3 hour drive to Tagaytay, enjoy the cool mountain breeze, and see the iconic view of the highly active Taal Volcano.Taal Volcano is famous for Vulcan Point, the world’s largest island within a lake (Crater Lake) that is situated on an island (Volcano Island/Taal Island) located in a lake (Lake Taal) within an island (Luzon) in the Pacific Ocean.

Location  — Cavite-Batangas provinces, Southern Luzon (Northern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  You can find Tagataytay-bound buses at Cubao, Buendia or Pasay in Metro Manila. Travel time is around 2 to 3 hours depending on the pace of traffic. Alternatively, you can hop on a shuttle van from EGI Mall near the LRT Gil Puyat Station.

Tagaytay Travel Essentials

Sky Ranch Tagaytay Ride-All-You-Can Day Pass

Paradizoo Admission Ticket in Tagaytay

Tagaytay Day Tour from Manila

See More of the Philippines

Lily Flower Blooms in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato, Philippines

One of my favorite highland destinations in the Philippines is Lake Sebu, the homeland of the T’boli people. This peaceful town in Mindanao offers a cool mountain climate, beautiful waterfalls, and scenic lake views. When in Lake Sebu, do not miss the 7 Falls Zipline. It’s one of the tallest in Asia and offers a breathtaking view of Lake Sebu’s seven waterfalls. Enjoy an early morning canoe ride to see the fields of blooming lotus greet the sunrise.

Location  — South Cotabato province,Soccsksargen region, Mindanao Island (Southern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  General Santos Airport is around two hours by plane from Manila or around 1 hour from Cebu or Iloilo. Land travel from General Santos to Lake Sebu takes 2 to 3 hours. Alternatively, can book a flight to Davao Airport go on a 2 to 3-hour land trip to General Santos.

Lake Sebu Travel Essentials

Hikong Bente (2nd Falls) in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato, Philippines Hikong Bente (2nd Falls), Lake Sebu

Punta Isla Lake Resort in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato, Philippines Punta Isla Lake Resort, Lake Sebu

See more : Lake Sebu travel tips

Paoay Church (San Agustin Church) in Paoay, Ilocos Norte, Philippines

Ilocos Norte and its capital city, Laoag, is one of the Philippines’ top heritage destinations. See the Paoay Church, included in UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites, and many other exquisite Spanish-colonial churches. Go farther north to find the iconic windmills, beautiful beaches, surfing, and coastal landscapes in Pagudpud and Burgos.

Location  — Ilocos Norte province, Luzon Island (Northern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Traveling by air is the fastest and most convenient way to Ilocos Norte. Laoag Airport is an hour north of Manila by plane. You can also reach Laoag by land from different areas in Luzon. The land trip to Laoag is around 9 hours from Manila.

Laoag Travel Essentials

Kapurpurawan White Rock in Burgos, Ilocos Norte, Philippines Kapurpurawan White Rock

Cape Bojeador Lighthouse in Burgos, Ilocos Norte, Philippines Cape Bojeador Lighthouse in Burgos, Ilocos Norte

Bangui Windmills in Bangui, Ilocos Norte, Philippines Bangui Windmills

See more : Laoag & Ilocos Norte travel tips

Salagdoong Beach in Siquijor, Philippines

Hop on a ferry from Dumaguete & wander around the mystical island of Siquijor. This island province is famous for its stunning beach coves, waterfalls, and as a home of mountain-dwelling mangkukulam (healers/Filipino witches).

Location  — Central Visayas region (Central Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Touchdown at Dumaguete-Sibulan Airport, which serves direct flights from Manila and Cebu. From Dumaguete Pier, ride one of the frequent ferries to Siquijor. Travel time by fastcraft (high-speed ferry) is 50 minutes. You can also reach Siquijor on a direct ferry from Cebu or Bohol.

Siquijor Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts

Cambugahay Falls in Siquijor, Philippines Cambugahay Falls, Siquijor

Lazi Church in Siquijor, Philippines Lazi Church, Siquijor

See more : Siquijor travel tips

Bato Ni Ning Ning in San Vicente, Palawan, Philippines

Port Barton is a quiet beachside village in the town of San Vicente. It is popular among backpackers and travelers who want to experience a relaxed rural atmosphere. Here, you can go about and explore many pristine offshore islands and venture to Long Beach in San Vicente Town Proper, reputedly the longest white sand beach in the Philippines. San Vicente/Port Barton is located between Puerto Princesa and El Nido, in mainland Palawan.

Location  — San Vicente, Northern Palawan province, Palawan province, MIMAROPA region (West Central Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  The fastest way is by flying directly to the new San Vicente Airport, which serves direct flights from Clark. From San Vicente Airport / Poblacion, you can charter a boat to get to Port Barton. Travel time by boat takes around 1 hour. You can also go by land from other spots in Palawan Island. Travel time to San Vincente takes around 5-6 hours from Puerto Princesa, 2.5-3 hours from El Nido or 1-1.5 hours from Roxas Bus Terminal.

San Vicente Travel Essentials

Port Barton Island Hopping from San Vicente (Join-In Tour)

Port Barton Beach at dusk, in San Vicente, Palawan, Philippines Port Barton Beach, San Vicente, Palawan

Maxima Island in San Vicente, Palawan, Philippines Maxima Island, San Vicente, Palawan

San Vicente Long Beach in San Vicente, Palawan, Philippines San Vicente Long Beach, San Vicente, Palawan

Marcos at Matukad Island in Caramoan, Camarines Sur, Bicol, Philippines

Caramoan rose to fame when the islands became the location of TV reality show “Survivor.” It was featured multiple times not only by Survivor US, but also various international editions of the franchise. After you’ve seen Caramoan, it’s not hard to see why. The islands are blessed with towering limestone cliffs that serve as the perfect backdrop of hidden lagoons and crowdless white sand beaches.

Location  — Camarines Sur province, Bicol region, Luzon Island (Northern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  Sabang Port in San Jose, Camarines Sur province is the jump-off point to Caramoan. Travel time to Sabang Port by car is 1 hour from Naga City (Naga-Pili Airport) or 3 hours from Legazpi City (Legazpi-Bicol Airport). From Sabang Port, ride a local ferry to Guijalo Port in Caramoan. Travel time is around 1 hour and 45 minutes. From Guijalo, the land trip to Caramoan town proper takes around 30 minutes. From Caramoan town proper, the islands are accessible on whole day island hopping tours.

Caramoan Travel Essentials

Caramoan Islands view from Matudak Island in Camarines Sur, Philippines Caramoan Islands, Camarines Sur

Lahos Island in Caramoan, Camarines Sur, Philippines Lahos Island, Camarines Sur

Tayak Beach in Caramoan, Camarines Sur, Philippines Tayak Beach, Camarines Sur

Caramoan Church (St. Micheal de Archangel Parish Church) in Caramoan, Camarines Sur, Philippines Caramoan Church, Camarines Sur

Mahabang Buhang Beach in Calaguas Island, Vinzons, Camarines Norte, Philippines

Mahabang Buhangin Beach in Calaguas Island is perhaps the only beach in Northern Philippines that can rival the likes of Boracay and the best beaches in Palawan when it comes to powdery fine white sand. Despite its remote location in Camarines Norte, it has risen as one of the top places to visit among beach campers and adventure-seeking tourists. The beachfront is shy of one kilometer in length and has a sprawling view of unbelievably turquoise blue and crystal clear waters.

Location  — Vinzons, Camarines Norte province, Bicol region, Luzon Island (Northern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  The main jump-off points to Calaguas Island is are the towns of Paracale and Vinzons in Camarines Norte province. From Manila, the land journey to Paracale/Vinzons takes around 8-9 hours. Paracale is the nearer gateway to Calaguas Island. Travel time by ferry from Paracale to Calaguas is around 2 hours. The nearest airport with commercial flights is Naga-Pili Airport (WNP), which is a 2-hour drive away from Paracale/Vinzons.

Marcos at Magasang Rock Formation in Biri, Samar, Philippines

Biri is one of my all-time favorite “off the beaten path” adventures in the Philippines. Facing the Pacific Ocean, this remote island is home to awe-inspiring rock formations carved over time by nature. Scramble up to one of the peaks for an awe-inspiring view of raging sea waves crashing over the rugged landscape.

Location  — Northern Samar province, Eastern Visayas region (Central Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  The nearest airport to Biri is Catarman Airport, which serves direct flights from Clark. From Catarman Airport, you’ll first need to go on a 1-hour land trip to Lavezares Port, the main jump-off point to Biri Islands. From Lavezares Port, hop on a ferry to Biri. The sea crossing takes around 45 minutes. Alternatively, it’s possible to reach Biri from Calbayog Airport or Tacloban Airport. Travel time by land from Tacloban to Lavezares is 6 hours.

Bel-at Rock Formation sunset view, in Biri, Samar, Philippines Bel-at Rock Formations, Biri

Marcos at Magasang Rock Formation in Biri, Samar, Philippines Magasang Rock Formation, Biri

Enchanted River in Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur, Philippines

Endless stretches of white-sand beaches, not your only image of a perfect island getaway? Surigao del Sur province has many extraordinary sights for the off-beat traveler. See the majestic Tinuy-an Falls and bizarre Hinatuan Enchanted River, a magically clear, deep blue river that seems to spring from nowhere.

Location  — Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur province, Caraga region, Mindanao (Southern Philippines). Save on Google Maps .

How to go —  The Enchanted River is located in the coastal town of Hinatuan in Surigao del Sur province. The nearest airports are Butuan Airport and Davao Airport. Travel time by bus to Hinatuan is around 4 hours from Butuan and 5 hours from Davao. From Hinatuan town proper, the trip to the Enchanted River takes around 20 minutes.

Where to Stay in Philippines

Click below & search recommended Philippines hotels/hostels/home rentals within your budget. Remember to set your  min/max price , travel dates, and  sort by review ratings . I often book online with these trusted booking sites below for rock-bottom prices & convenient bookings.

Agoda Booking.com

Book sooner rather than later if you already have your dates set. Cheaper-priced rooms and hotels with high reviews tend to get fully booked faster, especially during busy days like weekends, holidays & peak tourist seasons.

Don’t Stop Here

Click below for more travel inspiration:

Don’t leave yet. There’s more!

Discover more blogs and travel tips in:

• Puerto Princesa
• General Santos
• Iloilo City
• Gigantes Islands
• Southeast Asia

Find more posts about:

• Best Travel
• Best Places
• Best Things To Do

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

August 20, 2015 at 7:12 pm

Thank you for Iligan :) will share!

August 20, 2015 at 10:03 pm

Waterfalls are my weakness. Plus points for the likes of Tinago, where you can enjoy the swimming in the natural pool, and not just appreciate them from a distance. Thanks for dropping by Rain!

August 21, 2015 at 7:20 am

Thank You for featuring Iloilo! The food. The ambiance. It’s a sanctuary! ?

August 21, 2015 at 8:24 pm

My pleasure Jae. More people should discover and explore Iloilo.

August 21, 2015 at 12:01 pm

Should include Batanes in your bucketlist.. ?

August 21, 2015 at 8:22 pm

It already is! I would have included Batanes on this list if I had gone there already. For the next update, I think I’ll be needing help from my travel buddies to convince people why Batanes is worth a go.

August 22, 2015 at 1:02 pm

I definitely agree about Batanes! This may help do some convincing – http://theroadtoneverland.com/the-batanes-great-spaces-list/ :)

February 4, 2016 at 5:27 pm

I’ve been dreaming of going to Batanes too =)

January 17, 2019 at 6:00 pm

I agree. Batanes should be included. Its the most serene and lovely place to go that if you want a peaceful day away from all office tension this is the right place. Not much for food though but the place and people – I’m all thumbs up! Highly recommended!

August 21, 2015 at 1:48 pm

Thanks for featuring Surigao ? You have to visit Turtle Island too in Barobo, Surigao del Sur, with its white beaches, clear sea water, cave, smaller islets around it and its beautiful scenery at the top of it. Brittania beach is so cool too .

August 21, 2015 at 8:21 pm

I love Surigao. Can’t get enough of surfing in Siargao and the lagoons of Sohoton. Thanks for the suggestions. I really want to visit more places in the eastern coast of mainland Surigao del Norte and Surigao del Sur.

August 21, 2015 at 5:17 pm

Boracay Island? i know its not that much of a paradise anymore but i think it does deserve to be on this list

August 21, 2015 at 8:19 pm

I will be including Boracay on the next update. Boracay is a rare beauty not only in the PH, but across the globe.

August 21, 2015 at 9:52 pm

Thanks much for including my hometown SAGADA… Have you been to Bumod-ok Falls? ??? Good luck and God bless!

August 21, 2015 at 10:49 pm

Yes, Bumod-ok Falls and Pongas Falls. I <3 Sagada. Thanks Gamay!

August 22, 2015 at 12:45 am

Hello, Best post I have read from browsing FB today! Have gone visited half, obviously there are still more! Keep on traveling and sharing! It really is more fun in the Phils! :) -kathy

August 22, 2015 at 1:49 am

Love your article. Grew up in Baguio City. Was hoping to see Baguio as one of the list. I guess the City had lost its charm.

August 22, 2015 at 4:53 am

You haven’t been to Antique(san jose, antique. In there we have beaches such as malalison beach. We call the virgin island. Malumpati beach, sira an spring in anini-y antique and many more.

March 1, 2017 at 11:49 am

Nice place Antique.. Mauli gid ako sa Antique Ma’am

August 22, 2015 at 10:56 am

August 22, 2015 at 12:33 pm

Nice compilation and awesome pictures! ;)

August 22, 2015 at 6:00 pm

I had an opportunity to visit the Philippines and I only had a week to stay. I chose Boracay. I had the most wonderful and transformative experience there. Not only was it beyond beautiful with countless experiences to be had, the people were some of the friendliest I’ve experienced in my world travels. I have befriended some and keep contact even now. I’d like to thank Marcos for this glimpse at some of what the country has to offer and beautiful photos. I personally now consider the Philippines to be a home away from home and thank the people there for embracing me. Everything is better in the Philippines. ^_^

August 22, 2015 at 8:55 pm

This is a beautifully presented blog. I have traveled the Philippines quite extensively back in the day but obviously, there’s a whole lot more to see, pick up souvenirs and create memories.

August 28, 2015 at 7:30 pm

thank you for bicol:) i think you should also visit calaguas islands in camarines norte its so beautiful.

August 28, 2015 at 9:39 pm

My pleasure Michelle. I’ve been to Calaguas and it’s way up my list of the Philippines’ most beautiful beaches :)

September 3, 2015 at 12:19 pm

I have been to CDO a lot but didn’t make time for Ma. Cristina falls and Tinago falls. Regret! Should make time next time :)

September 12, 2015 at 10:11 am

Good Job, Marcos… nice one. i love it. Thanks…

September 12, 2015 at 5:50 pm

How about syquijor marcos?

September 14, 2015 at 5:01 am

5 down 6 more to go! Gigantes sur Island is sexy!!! Im gonna share this to all of my friends around the world, it’s more fun in the Philippines indeed!! Thanks for the great post sir!

October 17, 2015 at 5:18 pm

So fascinated with the places you’ve pinned on your blog. Visited four places out of eleven.

Please visit Cagayan Valley,too.

We have plenty of waterfalls, lagoon and jaw-dropping cave esp the Bluewater Cave.

November 21, 2015 at 10:05 am

Hey Marcos,

Greetings from the USA. I am a solo traveler going back into the Philippines February 2k16 for a couple of months. I will be visiting: Cebu, Camotes, Bantanyan, Apo, Palawan and then I will head into Thailand (4 my 4th time there).

Do you have any information on the conditions in Camotes and Bantanyan? I have been scouring the blogs but cannot find out current conditions of these islands. Have they recuperated from the typhoons?

Happy trails, Gregg

November 21, 2015 at 11:40 am

I actually visited Bantayan in Cebu earlier this year. The island is a good place as any to visit. The resorts have recovered from any (recent) typhoons. I haven’t gone to Camotes yet, but I’d go out on a limb and say that the resorts there are operating normally, too.

November 23, 2015 at 1:17 pm

What was the Overall Cost of all trips? Or separately cost of each destination? I just want to see what an estimate of the cost would be for all 11. Thank you!

November 30, 2015 at 7:24 am

If you are near the Romblon Province… you are welcome on Sibuyan Island…the Galapagos of Asia Enjoy 100% pure nature…

February 16, 2016 at 3:53 am

Batanes should be on this list! Much more so than the other places in this list! It’s so weird that it was not included. I had to re-read the list to make sure I just didn’t miss it.

February 16, 2016 at 11:49 am

Pangasinan is also an easy to go for first timers. We have lots of beaches there and tourist spots including Hundred Islands. ?

February 25, 2016 at 2:23 am

Very nice to see Dumaguete in the list :-) Kind Regards

PS: I like your picture plug-in for the small images. would you mid sharing which one you use?

February 25, 2016 at 3:41 pm

Thanks Rhoody ^_^

It’s a premium plug-in called is “Justified Image Grid.’

March 10, 2016 at 6:59 am

Awesome and really helpful article you wrote. Came across your article while searching for Gigantes island. You basically gave me so many ideas on where to take my family when we get there in the next few months! P.S. You should check out Sipalay, Negros Occidental out too and try and head over to Danugan Island Sanctuary – http://www.danjuganisland.ph/ – yes it’s not waterfalls but on the way to Sipalay, you can make a stop over at Mag-aso Falls somewhere in Kabankalan City

Have fun travelling! Maria

April 19, 2016 at 2:44 pm

Thanks for sharing this ideas, last yr we visited Calaguas..3 days are not enough to explore all the breathtaking scenery from that place. love it and its really a good place to hideaway and relax. thank u my khush also

April 28, 2016 at 4:55 am

Lovely places.. thanks for listing them. i’m going to visit the Philippines by the end of this year with my better half. i think this is perfect guide.

May 1, 2016 at 4:02 am

Please visit Aliwagwag Falls, Cateel, Davao Oriental.

May 1, 2016 at 8:49 am

I’ve already been to Aliwagwag! It was very beautiful. I’ve included it on my list of must-visit waterfalls in the Philippines .

May 2, 2016 at 10:59 pm

Can you suggest a 4 days tour in bangkok thailand beside visiting the temples,floating market.thanks

May 4, 2016 at 12:54 pm

Hey Jessica :) You can find my Thailand blogs, guides, and travel tips on this link: https://www.detourista.com/x/search/network/?q=thailand

May 27, 2016 at 11:20 am

Thanks for spending your time traveling around our country and giving people ideas what we can offer here it will helps our tourism industry and most of all thanks for featuring my home city Iloilo.

June 26, 2016 at 7:54 pm

Hello there,

How long did you spend on each island and in the Phillipines in total?

June 27, 2016 at 10:52 am

I live in the Philippines and I visited these places on different trips. Visiting the highlights on each stop on the list should take 3-5 days. Many of these places are located in the same (big) islands like Luzon and Mindanao :)

August 16, 2016 at 10:02 pm

Been to awesome Palawan… next is Bicol… Good article man…

August 17, 2016 at 6:47 am

Thanks Armando! Bicol is beautiful, make sure to visit Calaguas or Caramoan Islands if you want to visit beaches. Of course, don’t miss the view of Mayon Volcano and enjoy the delicious food in Bicol.

September 7, 2016 at 2:43 pm

Great tips. Traveling in June 2017 with 4 adult kids. A lot of the activities esp in Palawan and Cebu are for divers. We aren’t divers but my adult kids are active and me not so much due to aches and pains. Will we find a happy medium in going to Coron, El Nido, Bohol? We enjoy good food and wouldn’t mind some time for pampering.

September 24, 2016 at 2:50 am

Cool Theresa! You can enjoy a lot in those places even if you are not divers. In Coron, for example, you can already see the rich marine life just on a snorkeling/island hopping tour. There are also a lot of amazing places to see & experience above water.

September 10, 2016 at 9:43 am

Hi there i am in cebu now. What would be the best circuit to go for flow here to see some of these cool place ? I wanna surf to buy at present no swell so thought if start a citcuit for a couple of weeks then hit the surf island Should i start with palawan? Or would there be an easy flow direction from cebu? Cheers Prem

September 24, 2016 at 2:48 am

Hello Prim! If you want the best surfing, go to Siargao. There’s a direct Cebu-Siargao flight by Cebu Pacific. To go to Palawan, you need to go back to Cebu by plane & take another flight to Puerto Princesa. If it were me, I would visit Siargao first & then do a more chill trip in Palawan.

November 21, 2016 at 11:06 pm

Thanks for sharing these places! Palawan looks beautiful. And Illocos looks very interesting! Ive written them down for when i go to the Philippines x

November 29, 2016 at 2:32 pm

Thanks for the comment Stephanie. Have fun on your future trips in PH!

January 7, 2017 at 1:52 pm

I’m glad South Cotabato and Northern Mindanao are featured in your list. As someone who’s living here in Mindanao, we’re proud of our tourist spots and beautiful natural resources.

January 8, 2017 at 6:43 am

Thanks for the comment Ana. I love visiting these places :) I had gone to more places in South Cotabato and North Mindanao recently. There are a lot more places to visit in the area :D

May 20, 2017 at 8:25 am

After our tour in iloilo city and Boracay , other towns in Panay island would be another bests. See a real MUMMY in Casanayan for the first time, swim in Dayhagan beach, see the biggest bell in Asia, be amazed of the tallest Marian image in Asia found in Pilar, the very high statue of sacred heart and seafood in Roxas city, the Kawa bath in Antique, the caves and super big acacia trees and waterfalls in Pilar, Sicogon island and Gigantes island . all of these are in Panay island ,3 hour bus ride from iloilo city..

May 29, 2017 at 11:31 am

What about Borocay? How does it compare to the places listed above?

May 29, 2017 at 10:59 pm

Boracay is beautiful & one of the top spots in the Philippines. It’s one of the best places to visit for vacationers. You might want to check out this list of the best beaches in the Philippines to compare with other island destinations in the country.

June 8, 2017 at 2:11 am

Why didn’t you include Batanes? Its so beautiful to miss it?

June 8, 2017 at 2:52 am

Check out this list! https://www.detourista.com/guide/philippines-best-beaches/

June 15, 2017 at 8:49 pm

Love Philippines!!

June 17, 2017 at 3:30 pm

I like this side. I want to visit .

June 27, 2017 at 8:39 pm

awesome blog! Just wanna ask what camera and lenses you used on those lovely photos.

June 27, 2017 at 11:09 pm

Glad you like my photo Sean :)

They were taken on different trips over the last decade or so, haha. I’ve used different cameras (& lenses) but mainly these: Nikon D5000 Panasonic Lumix DSLM Sony A6000

Many photos on my blog are also taken with a mobile phone: Huawei P9

November 6, 2017 at 3:19 am

Wat would be the cost for solo trip for 5 days

November 17, 2017 at 10:19 pm

It depends on what places you want to visit, activities & hotel rates. Generally, a backpacker-friendly budget in the Philippines is around USD 20-50 or PHP 1000-2500 per day.

Check out these posts to get an idea of the costs of traveling in the Philippines: El Nido Travel Guide Blog Boracay Travel Guide Blog

November 13, 2017 at 11:58 pm

Interesting list but I would have to say that my first reaction when I was browsing through the places on the list was to disagree. However upon reading the article thats when I noticed that the list would Be for first time travelers who would like to start discovering beautiful places in the Philippines. I guess A more descriptive title would be better for this article. But interesting list.

November 17, 2017 at 10:03 pm

Thank you Blanne. The Philippines has so many beautiful spots to offer beyond these places listed. They are definitely worth seeking.

You’re right, I wrote this article keeping the ease of traveling to & around these spots in mind.

If you have destinations that you think should be on the article, I and my readers would appreciate including them on your next comment :)

November 24, 2017 at 4:36 am

How many days do you suggest to visit Philippines?

November 24, 2017 at 7:18 am

Depends on how many places you want to visit. Two to four week will be enough to visit the highlights. Or, at least 2 to 5 days per destination.

May 1, 2018 at 5:37 pm

Sir whats better to visit in Kalibo, cebu,davao or puerto princesa or legaspi?I went to corn boracay dumaguete and bohol already

May 3, 2018 at 12:08 am

Hi Sweet, I recommend that you go to Palawan!

September 8, 2018 at 4:51 pm

Hi… Can I asked what hotel in Baguio city and in palawan most expensive and worth it to stay..thank you

September 19, 2018 at 1:53 am

Hey Rosie. You can check the list of hotels here . Just enter your travel dates, sort the results by the highest guest reviews, and use the price/star rating filter.

September 11, 2018 at 11:59 pm

Hi, when having to choose to add days somewhere to stay longer you would go with Cebu/Bohol are or Palawan? :)

September 19, 2018 at 2:08 am

It depends on what kind of places you want to visit. For the best beaches & islands, go for Palawan (esp. El Nido and Coron). Explore more of Palawan if you want to visit more off-beat beaches and islands. If you want to have a more diverse experience, extend your trip in Cebu/Bohol (food, waterfalls, heritage sites, urban comforts etc.)

December 15, 2018 at 8:23 am

Totally agree with your list. Having Cebu and Bohol on your top 3 list is indeed the right thing. Palawan is the most popular to me in terms of local and foreign tourists that visits the place and Cebu as the second best places in your list is indeed correct, for me, and I also agree with your number 3. All in all, I agree with your list. These are indeed the best places in Philippines that every tourists shouldn’t miss

January 17, 2019 at 2:49 am

Thank you for this information I’ve enjoyed reading all your advise . We are a couple in our 50’s hoping to spend 3 weeks in the Philippines soon thinking of port Barton, El I do , Bohol what do you think ? Than you

January 18, 2019 at 4:44 pm

Yes, those are good choices! From El Nido, you can take the ferry to Coron as well. From Bohol, you can continue your trip to Dumaguete & Siquijor Island.

January 24, 2019 at 1:31 am

If I have one week to visit the Philipines, what places do you recommend me to go?

January 24, 2019 at 4:00 am

You can maybe limit to one, two or three places on the list. A good combination would be, Cebu & Palawan.

February 26, 2019 at 3:58 pm

What a fantastic, informative post with beautiful pictures! I am considering an 8 day visit in April and am trying to figure out where to go so this is very helpful. I’d love to see beautiful beaches and the whale shark, maybe the Tarsiers too. Any suggestions on where I could go and the order to go in? Thank you!!

March 1, 2019 at 2:37 pm

With 8 days, I recommend that you limit the no. destinations to 2 or 3 spots. I suggest Palawan and Cebu.

In Palawan, you can either go to Coron… or do the Puerto Princesa-El Nido route.

From Cebu, you can base at Cebu City and visit Bohol / South Cebu on day trips.

Enjoy the Philippines!

April 25, 2019 at 7:26 pm

Marcos, i just want to thank you for the awesome info you’ve provided through your pages. I’m heading to the Philippines in a few weeks for fourteen nights, i’m still quite confused regarding where to spend my time but i’m sure that once i look closer at all you have shared that i will be able to make my destination choices and thoroughly enjoy my time!

April 26, 2019 at 11:49 am

Hi Jason, you can start planning by including Palawan (El Nido and/or Coron) and then add more places that pique your interest. Enjoy the Philippines!

June 30, 2019 at 1:02 pm

Wow, that’s an awesome compilation of the best things to do in the Philippines! I’ll definitely share it as a reference with our readers, both travelers and local organizers. Thanks!

July 3, 2019 at 11:09 am

I’ve been to these places especially in most part of Mindanao and it’s such a rare beauty. That’s why whenever my friends would invite me to visit nearby countries in asia, I always tell them to finish exploring the Philippines first because there are literally thousands of places to visit and enjoy. It’s more fun in the Philippines, indeed :)

July 4, 2019 at 11:18 pm

I am so looking forward to reading this in more depth and checking out all the links, before my first trip to the Philippines at Christmas time

August 14, 2019 at 1:38 pm

Its nice have a safe trip always! share more adventures

August 24, 2019 at 2:50 pm

why have’nt you included Leyte or Southern Leyte two of the most interesting historic areas of the phlippines with tons of interesting stories from the second world war and the adventures of Marco Polo

August 28, 2019 at 1:51 pm

Actually, Phillipines is one of the places in my Bucket list which I have not explored yet. I love the city of Phillipines and the places you shared are so beautiful and so amazing. I really wish that someday I will visit this city as soon as possible. I just fall in love with these places. Thank you so much for this great post.

December 3, 2019 at 5:36 pm

From your article stating Palawan and Puerto Princesa at the very top of your best of list of the Philippines, we went extra to these two places to start our trip. What a shame and a big waste of money! Why not mention that Puerto Princesa, Palawan and particularly El Nido are overpriced tourist traps? How about giving a clear account of the greediness of the hotels, guesthouse and restaurants owners for such a low quality of service and infrastructure? (compared to over places in Asia). You do give an extensive list of nicer places in your article but saying that Palawan is the must destination is a big lie. If you want to be honest and help travelers, then weight your arguments, tell that what is special on Palawan is the island hoping and lagoons, for which the boat tours have a cost as well. And if you want to boost these places for some hidden interest of yours, at least be honest and give a realistic account of the prices and quality of services for each place you present. Thank you

January 30, 2020 at 8:00 pm

Hi Elodie! That is exactly my difficulty choosing where to go.. I am going for the first time to Philippines and i am really excited. However i only have 8 days this time as I am going to do a yoga teaching for a month right after.

my question is: If you are first time travelling to Philippines and have only 8 days should I do 1. Port Barton and el Nido or 2. Siargao ?

I am a lot into exploring and ideally less crowded more paradise like. I dont need any ‘luxury’ and I am going by my self end of Feb. any suggestions?

I know El Nido/Coron is like ‘THE’ place but i am not sure about how busy and tourity it might feel nowdays. In the other side Siargao seems really nice but not sure if the beauty would compare to el Nido.

thoughts please? :)

February 1, 2020 at 9:56 pm

Siargao is beautiful too. You can visit Sohoton Lagoons/Bucas Grande Island, which is one of the most beautiful places I’ve been to in the Philippines.

December 7, 2019 at 8:59 pm

Thanks for a great article. The Philippines is such an underrated country! I fell in love with the place on my first visit in 2014. I even met my wife in Manila.

December 30, 2019 at 6:37 pm

Amazing info! Question – how wheelchair friendly is Palawan, Manila & Cebu? My fiancé is quite mobile – he can around easily but he’s still in a wheelchair. I know it’s hard to say but is difficult yet do-able or completely forget it and don’t go?

December 31, 2019 at 7:32 am

Hi Terry. It’s definitely doable :)

January 24, 2020 at 1:53 pm

Hello Marcos,

Loved your article! I have two weeks in Philippines and I am flying in to Manila from Bali and onward to Hong Kong. I have only booked tickets from A-B-C .. and not inter city flights. I am planning to do Palawan -el nido, coron, Cebu and Bohol in central and sagada and rice fields in north. so my question- it a best option to come back to manila to catch flight to Hong kong or do you suggest to fly out from any other destination? .Thank you

February 1, 2020 at 10:00 pm

You can consider the direct flights to Hong Kong from Cebu or Puerto Princesa (Palawan) as well.

Here’s a route you can take:

Manila (+Sagada/Banaue) Clark to Palawan (Coron or Puerto Princesa) Flight Palawan to Cebu flight Cebu to Hong Kong flight

February 9, 2020 at 6:25 pm

Wishing to see the true natural beauty of Northern Mindanao;) Extremely loving places just like the article.

February 12, 2020 at 5:05 am

Wow! Thank you for sharing your travel adventures in your truly beautiful country. We are planning a trip for March 2020 and would love your advise on our itinerary if you are happy to give us some guidance :)

March 31, 2020 at 4:52 am

Amazing…Lovely the natural travel adventure.I love travelling the World and i read the article of the your adventure liked it.

April 1, 2020 at 4:00 am

Thanks for giving the great response

March 19, 2020 at 1:52 pm

It is true that one of the places in the Philippines that you must visit is Ilo-ilo. They have lots of beautiful tourist spots that you must see and experience. If you are the type person who loves sea or island hopping then I suggest that you try Islas de Gigantes. I recommend that you book your stay at Solina Beach & Nature Resort Iloilo because they are near the island plus they can arrange and accommodate everything for you. They will provide transportation going to the port, the boat that will take you to the islands, food, water, towels and someone who will be your guide.

March 26, 2020 at 8:42 pm

thanks for sharing

April 3, 2020 at 4:46 pm

I will really go to Palawan and Siargao after this COVID-19! I miss the view and breeze of beach!

April 11, 2020 at 3:29 pm

The Philippines is a wonderful country no doubt and the pics which you have shared, its outstanding and now I would like to see all these places. but would like to know these places are far from each other or they are close enough that you can explore these places at the same day.

May 14, 2020 at 1:24 pm

Maybe you should add Bacolod too, there are lots of great things to do there and neighboring areas like Talisay City, the Lakawon island, and more.

June 14, 2020 at 4:48 pm

I hope one day, you would be able to feature the following:

1. Sta. Cruz Island (Pink Sand) of Zamboanga City 2. Onces Islas of Zamboanga City 3. Malamawi Beach of the Province of Basilan 4. All beaches in the Province of Tawi-Tawi 5. Dakak Resort in Dapitan 6. Balut island in the Province of Sarangani

June 19, 2020 at 4:19 pm

Hello. Thank you for sharing this beautiful places in the Philippines. 😍 I used some of your photos as a model and i paint it for my Art vlogs. Thank youu ❤️

July 21, 2020 at 12:54 pm

Mayon Volcano is such a beauty. Its perfect cone is surreal! Imagining myself back in Bicol after this pandemic. Love this post!

October 3, 2020 at 1:34 am

thank you for the sharing of the post and informative Data in the post that is helpfull for me

December 10, 2020 at 6:50 pm

I want to thanks for your time for this wonderful Article!! I definitely enjoying every little bit of it and I have you bookmarked to check out new stuff you blog post.

February 27, 2021 at 7:44 am

Most of my friends tell me that the Philippines is one of the best places to travel during summer. For me, traveling is tied in with looking for new experiences. Furthermore, these experiences become considerably more fun when you can share them with an old buddy. Come and visit my article on Top 7 Destinations to Visit During Summer I hope this will guide you as well.

Thanks Nicki

March 25, 2021 at 6:28 am

This article is very informative. It is a valuable piece of information. I wish to now make a travel plan to the Philippines after reading your blog. Thanks for sharing your knowledge.

April 22, 2021 at 8:54 pm

Thank you for such a broad overview of the sights in the Philippines. This is the best place not only in your country, but in the whole world. Friends went and were very pleased. Hopefully, the quarantine will end a hundred and we will also come to visit you.

May 20, 2021 at 11:56 pm

February 10, 2023 at 4:25 pm

Very informative. Thank you for sharing. I love the Ube Jam from Good Shepherd and the beautiful view in Mines View Park. Baguio is one of the top tourist spot in the Philippines. I will definitely go back there.

February 14, 2023 at 5:37 pm

Hi Loved this artical and learned a lot I’m coming over with my GF from June 3rd till the 17th thinking of landing in Manila and heading towards Cebu would really love if someone could suggest the best places to hit as I’ve never been before and don’t know the Philippines

15 Best Places to Visit in the Philippines

Written by Anietra Hamper Updated Sep 16, 2022

The Philippines is a destination that is easy to visit multiple times due to its more than 7,000 islands. The most difficult decision you make as a traveler, is figuring out which places to visit first. The Philippines is divided into the three main island groups of Luzon , Visayas, and Mindanao , representing different regions in the country.

The scenery in each region of the Philippines ranges from mountainous and tropical to metropolitan. You can enjoy a day of walking the historical colonial streets of the capital city of Manila or catch a rare glimpse of tiny tarsier monkeys at a private sanctuary on the island of Bohol . The steep, plush mountains provide unforgettable hiking experiences.

Since you are surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, it's not surprising the Philippines has some of the best beaches in Asia , and the scuba diving opportunities are outstanding.

Plan your travels around this tropical island nation with our list of the best places to visit in the Philippines.

7. Davao City

9. coron island, 11. puerto princesa, 13. apo island, 14. el nido, 15. siargao, map of places to visit in the philippines.

There is a reason that Boracay Island is considered the beach capital of the Philippines because there are more than 12 beaches. This tiny island in the west Visayas region is ideal for beach-goers who are after simple relaxation in the sun or water activities. White Beach , on the west side of the island, is one of the best beaches in the Philippines .

Puka Shell Beach is on the tip of the island and is a favorite spot for shell collectors. Cagban Beach is a quiet spot with nearby caves that are rumored to still contain treasure chests. Diniwid Beach is a tiny beach at the north end of White Beach that has the best view of the island from a platform rock located there.

This island is known for its many resorts, so finding a place to stay is easy. For a panoramic view of the island, take a day trip to Mount Luho , its highest point.

The island of Bohol in the Philippines' central Visayas region runs at a slower pace, and it's a destination that showcases the country's natural beauty. One of the most unique natural wonders on the island is the Chocolate Hills in Carmen . This UNESCO -protected site is a collection of 1,200 geological formations that turn brown in the dry season, resembling a landscape of chocolate candy kisses.

Bohol is home to a family-owned sanctuary for the tiny tarsier primate, known for its large engaging eyes. For a small fee, you can take an intimate walk through the grounds, and stand inches away from the small nocturnal mammal.

The top draw of Bohol is the beach. Panglao Island features some of the best beaches in Bohol: Alona Beach and Danao Beach , which have fantastic diving; Dao Beach and Bingag Beach , which are popular resort areas; Bolod Beach, which has a large stretch of shoreline; and Doljo Beach , which is fairly remote but fantastic for finding seashells.

The island of Cebu, in the central Visayas region, is considered the port to some of the best diving and snorkeling in the Philippines. If you are an underwater enthusiast, Cebu is one of your best options for excursions that get you up-close to whale sharks, coral reefs, and sea turtles.

Some of the most spectacular scenery from the water near Cebu are the sea caves that attract photographers and outdoor enthusiasts looking for unique diving and snorkeling sites. The Sudlon National Park , located approximately an hour from Cebu City, is a breathtaking park to explore and hike.

While Cebu's greatest draw is its water, Cebu City is a metropolitan area, with tourist attractions like museums and cathedrals that will interest history buffs.

The rice terraces of Banaue are one of the most striking things to see in the Philippines. The emerald-green terraces are an agricultural wonder in this area. Some of the terraces are estimated to have been hand-carved into the mountainside more than 2,000 years ago.

The Batad Rice Terraces and the Bangaan Rice Terraces are protected UNESCO World Heritage sites .

For a deeper taste of this region, take a stroll through the Banaue Ethnic Village or the Hiwang Village to mingle with the Indigenous people who farm the rice terraces.

Your most impressive view of the terraces is at sunrise, when clouds and fog lift off the mountain to reveal the intricate landscape of the terraces. You can base yourself in the town of Banaue and hike or drive to the Batad rice terraces, or arrange a stay in a native hut of the Ifugao people for a more authentic experience.

The historical city of Vigan in the northern Philippines is one of the most charming towns to visit in the Luzon region. Its culture is a fusion of Chinese and Spanish influences originating from settlers to the area.

Take a ride in a horse-drawn kalesa through the streets and admire the colonial architecture, courtesy of the Spanish who colonized the area in the 18th century. Vigan is a city with many nuances to explore.

The best view of the area is from the Bantay Bell Tower , which is also a noted landmark in the area. The Calle Crisologo historic district is a walkable district, where you will encounter many local craftsman and see historical architecture.

A visit to the St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral is breathtaking and a perfect spot to sit and people-watch as you take in the local culture.

The Philippines capital of Manila, on the island of Luzon, is a bustling city with non-stop activity. Hop on board one of the colorful jeepneys, the main form of public transportation, to get a taste of local life while you visit Manila's top attractions .

Usually over-packed with locals, the bumpy ride through the streets on the iconic and kitschy jeep/bus hybrid vehicles will be one of the highlights of your visit.

Plan stops to the main park in the city, Rizal Park , and the San Agustin Church , which was built in the 16th century. Buy local fruits and handmade gifts at the public market at Quiapo Church , where you are likely to see several thousand people show up on Fridays for worship.

For a city scene outside of Manila, head to Davao City, which has a large metropolitan area. Davao City is the main city in the southern Philippine region of Mindanao .

Despite its malls and large population, Davao City features many natural elements, including the Eden Nature Park , Philippine Eagle Center, and the Davao Baywalk near the sea.

One of the best places to visit in Davao City is Mount Apo , the highest mountain in the Philippines. Davao City is a prime location for shopping, as there are several large malls, including Abreeza Mall and SM Lanang Premier Mall . For a peek into Davao City history and culture, the tiny Davao Museum of History and Ethnography is worth a visit.

One of the most unique experiences you can have in the Philippines is in the northern tribal region in Sagada. Nestled in the rugged and remote Cordillera Mountains are tribes that embrace the occasional visitor.

This area is a paradise for the advanced outdoor enthusiast. The steep mountains and high elevation enhance the thrill and skill level required for outdoor adventure. Hiking is popular in Sagada, particularly to Mount Ampaco , which has the highest peak in the region or through Echo Valley , which has steep and rugged terrain.

One of the best places to visit in this region of the Philippines is the hanging coffins that hide deep in the mountains . It is best to connect with a local guide to take you to this incredible site because this is not a tourist area, but rather an authentic tribal region hiding an experience worthy of bragging rights.

One of the top diving destinations in the world , Coron Island is a tropical paradise, with electric blue and green water that almost seems unreal. The mountainous island sits on the tip of the Palawan island region, the western-most section of islands in the Philippines.

The island is popular for diving because of the numerous wrecks here. Many of the preserved shipwrecks are located in depths ranging from shallow water at just three meters to deep water at 42 meters.

Some of the wrecks require more than one dive to explore due to their size, but you can easily spend a week diving in this area. For non-shipwreck diving, check out Barracuda Lake, a former volcano with many unusual rock formations and fish.

Baguio is a city tucked away in a mountainous region on Luzon Island. Though it is a city, Baguio is intimate and reminiscent of a cottage-type environment. Baguio is called the City of Pines for the rich pine forests and cooler temperatures that surround it.

You can explore one of the many hiking and biking trails or take in a round of golf at one of the resorts in the area. Baguio is unique to other destinations in the Philippines because the city is surrounded by trees and not water.

Parks like Mines View and Burnham let you enjoy some of the flora and fauna that are special to this region. Be sure to spend some time along Session Road , which is the main drag through Baguio, where you can take in a slice of local life.

The rock islands, caves, and natural parks of Palawan Island are the hidden paradise of the Philippines. The coastal city of Puerto Princesa is where you should base yourself in order to explore some of these natural gems of the country.

The Subterranean River National Park is a great first stop to see a five-mile underground river and impressive limestone caves. The UNESCO World Heritage site has boat tours that take you through the national park.

Other must-see spots in Puerto Princesa are Honda Bay , which is popular for snorkeling, and Ugong Rock , where you can try ziplining and caving.

On Samal Island, also called Garden City of Samal, hiking, diving, and kayaking are a way of life. One of the top things to do on Samal Island, besides relaxing at the beach, is visit the Monfort Bat Sanctuary , which is home to millions of bats in the caves.

An enjoyable day trip away from the beach is to Hagimit Falls , where you can walk on the nature trails and cool off in one of the pools below the tropical waterfalls. Samal Island is a short distance away from Davao City, which makes a great change of pace when you want a more metropolitan scene or a broader range of dining.

If a swim with sea turtles sounds like the experience of a lifetime then you will want to head to Apo Island in the Philippines. The reason this location lends itself to swimming with turtles and other sea life is because of the protected marine sanctuary. The Apo Island Marine Reserve is where you can take guided trips to see the sea turtles up close and snorkel at the coral reefs.

The island is an eco-traveler's dream. The protected landscape is some of the most untouched in the country. For great views of the island and the water go to the Apo Island View Deck . To get a sense of life on the island for the locals take a stroll on the Lagoon Trail through the Apo Village to see the local flora and fauna and engage with those who live on the island.

El Nido is a stunning place to visit in the Philippines for its clear water lagoons, marine life, coral reefs, and limestone cliffs. You can even take part in cliff climbing excursions, or go to Taraw Peak to experience a canopy walk with the best views of the landscape.

El Nido is also known for its pristine beaches, like Nacpan Beach and Lio Beach , and as the launch point for island-hopping adventures. Island hopping excursions to places like El Nido Big Lagoon or Snake Island to experience the cliffs and caves from the water are a memorable way to experience El Nido.

Travelers that enjoy making an itinerary up as they go should put Siargao Island on the agenda. The small island is big with experiences, from sought-after surfing waves to unusual rock formations and stunning waterfalls.

Surfing is what Siargao is most known for. The famous Cloud 9 break is here, but there are many coastline spots that bring in large waves. So, even if you do not surf, watching some of the championship surfers that come to the island is a fun activity.

Deep sea fishing is popular out of Siargao as anglers try year-round for sailfish and mahi-mahi. Another trip option when you visit Siargao is to do a bit of island hopping to places like Bucas Grande , where you can see the Sohoton Caves and the non-sting jellyfish.

When to go to the Philippines

Apr 15, 2021 • 7 min read

It's never a bad time to grab a beach towel and head to the Philippines © John Seaton Callahan / Getty Images

With over 7000 islands spread over 300,000sq km, there’s never a bad time to grab a beach towel and head to the Philippines . The country is renowned for its strips of golden sand, and even during the height of the rainy season you’re still likely to find an island where the sun is shining. On top of this is a calendar chock-full of fiestas and events, offering a unique cultural highlight for visitors whichever month they visit.

Whether you’re looking for the best time to hit the beach, dance up a storm at a festival, or simply avoid the worst of the tourist crowds, here’s our guide to the best time to visit the Philippines.

Editor's note: during COVID-19 there are restrictions on travel and opening hours may vary. Check the latest guidance in the Philippines before planning a trip, and always follow local health advice.

High season: November-April

The high season is dry season for most of the country, with December, January and February the coolest, most pleasant months for travel, which brings crowds to popular beach areas like El Nido and Coron , and competition for hotel beds.

Celebrations around Christmas, New Year and, notably, Holy Week, in the build up to Easter, make it a colorful and fascinating time to visit the country, but many resorts triple rates around these popular periods.

Shoulder season: May-October

Shoulder season tends to be short and sweet in the Philippines, often just a month either side of the popular dry season and quieter rainy months. Accommodation savings are available if you time it right and tourist crowds are thinner; however, end-of-term school holidays in April and May bring high levels of domestic tourists during this period.

Exciting events like the month-long Magayon Festival in Legazpi in May, with nightly street markets, pop-up bars and live music, and MassKara Festival, which brings flamboyant outfits and frenzied dancing to Bacolod in late October, add extra incentive for a shoulder season trip.

Low season: June-September

Low season means less crowds and cheaper accommodation prices, but rougher seas and a greater chance of bad weather, with passing typhoons sometimes causing days of torrential rain. This won’t, however, dissuade seasoned boarders, with big wave surf season starting at Siargao ’s Cloud Nine (the country’s most famous break) in August.

For the best chance of beach lounging weather, head to the Eastern Visayas , which are often dry when almost everywhere else is drenched – though this region is susceptible to tropical storms so keep an eye on the forecast. 

New Year is a ‘superpeak’ period, and hotel rates can quadruple in resort areas. Away from the eastern seaboard, the weather is usually pretty good – relatively cool and dry, although rain can linger into January. It’s also party season: Ati-Atihan Festival , a week-long mardi gras in Kalibo on Panay , is one of the Philippines’ most famous and riotous festivals and peaks in the third week of January, while Sinulog Festival , the granddaddy of Cebu ’s fiestas, brings dancing and processions on the third Sunday of the month. Key events : Ati-Atihan Festival, Sinulog Festival

It’s peak season for foreign travellers, so book ahead. The Christmas winds continue to howl, thrilling kite-surfers, while surf season continues in San Fernando (La Union) and butanding (whale shark) activity picks up in Donsol . On-land, the Chinese lunar new year in late January or early February is celebrated with gusto even among non-Chinese Filipinos, with dragon dances, street parties and fireworks in Manila . Up in the northern mountains of Luzon (the largest island in the Philippines), a more serene celebration takes place as the Panagbenga Flower Festival sees spectacular flower-covered floats meander through the streets of Baguio . Key events : Chinese New Year,  Panagbenga Flower Festival

Temperatures start to rise significantly in March, making city-sightseeing tough but beach-lounging ideal. Tourist numbers are not as high as January or February but things are still pretty busy.

Everything shuts down during Holy Week, which leads up to Easter, when sinakulo (passion plays) and pasyon (a recitation of the Passion of Christ) are staged throughout the country. This is a fascinating time to be in the country, though resort prices again hit ‘superpeak’ levels, during what is the last month of the typical high season. For a less conventional Easter experience, head to the island of Siquijor , where faith healers and witch doctors gather around a big pot on Holy Saturday, preparing a medicinal concoction some say cures all that ails you. Key events : Easter, Lenten Festival of Herbal Preparation

Though shoulder season means a drop in price for accommodation, scorching heat, beaches packed with vacationing locals (April and May are school holidays in the Philippines) and light winds can make this an uncomfortable time to travel. Consider cooler highland destinations such as the Cordillera of North Luzon. Festivals include the traditional Flores de Mayo which sees girls around the country strewing flowers around images of the Virgin Mary, and the month-long Magayon Festival in Legazpi, Bicol region, with nightly street markets, pop-up bars, music stages, dance performances, chilli-eating contests and more. Key events : Flores de Mayo, Magayon Festival

The onset of the wet season brings welcome respite from the heat. June also marks the start of typhoon season, so check the radar and reroute if there’s a big red blob heading your way. But it’s not all doom and gloom, Baragatan Festival sees residents of Puerto Princesa , Palawan, flood the grounds of the Provincial Capitol Building in a massive display of merrymaking, while Pintados-Kasadyaan in Tacloban celebrates pre-Spanish traditional tattooing practices, albeit using water-based paints for the festival’s body decorations. Tourist crowds and accommodation prices drop around the country. Key events : Baragatan Festival, Pintados-Kasadyaan

Slap bang in the middle of low season with few large-scale festivals to speak of, July is not the most popular month to visit the country. Savvy travellers, however, make their way east to spots like Samar and Leyte , which remain dry when the rest of the country is getting drenched. Around the country, scenery is lush and green and crowds are thin.

It’s the rainiest month (except for on the eastern seaboard, where it’s the driest), so you’ll get fabulous discounts on accommodation. Durian season begins in Mindanao and surf season launches in Siargao . The third week of August also sees Davao ’s showcase its Muslim, Chinese and tribal influences during the Kadayawan sa Dabaw Festival with parades, performances, and fruit and flower displays. Key events : Kadayawan sa Dabaw Festival

Heavy rain continues, particularly in the north of the country. Visitors who chance it could get lucky with a break in the rain, and be rewarded with low accommodation prices and quiet beaches. The Eastern Visayas are still mostly dry.

Things start to dry out after the heavy rains of August and September, but typhoons are still common. The early part of the month is a good time to travel with lower accommodation costs and fewer crowds, but high-season prices kick in towards the end of the month. Christmas music is already ubiquitous in the malls. On the streets of Bacolod , capital of Negros Occidental , mischievous masked men in feathery outfits stir the masses into a dancing frenzy as part of the MassKara Festival during the weekend closest to 19 October. Key events : MassKara Festival

November marks the return to high season with the arrival of good, dry weather for most of the country. Families laden with food gather at the local cemetery on the first day of the month to spend Todos los Santos (All Saints Day) remembering their departed loved ones. It’s a surprisingly festive occasion. Key events : Todos los Santos

High season is in full swing as the Christmas music reaches a crescendo and the northeast Christmas winds ramp up, launching kite-surfing season in Boracay and surf season in northwest Luzon. In Cotabato on the island of Mindanao , Shariff Kabungsuan Festival celebrates the arrival of Islam in the region and includes river parades of decorated boats from 15 to 19 December. The end of the month is a super peak period, which lasts across Christmas and New Year. Key events : Christmas, New Year, Shariff Kabungsuan Festival

You might also like: The 12 best beaches in the Philippines Five alternatives to Boracay Top Filipino dishes everyone should try

Explore related stories

Feb 14, 2024 • 8 min read

We asked a pair of passionate writers to make the case for two of Asia’s most fabulous destinations.

Jan 11, 2024 • 4 min read

Nov 24, 2023 • 5 min read

Oct 20, 2023 • 13 min read

Oct 20, 2023 • 8 min read

Sep 25, 2023 • 7 min read

Dec 26, 2022 • 14 min read

Mar 8, 2022 • 2 min read

Mar 3, 2022 • 9 min read

Feb 21, 2022 • 13 min read

• Work With Us
• Blogging Bootcamp

• Van Conversion Academy
• Campervan Shop
• Campervan Rentals
• Plan a Trip
• Itineraries
• Destinations
• Responsible Travel
• Family Travel
• Budget Travel
• Scuba Diving
• Travel Credit Cards
• Digital Nomad
• Teach English Abroad
• Blogging Resources
• Income Reports
• Travel Shop
• Meet Katie & Ben
• About Two Wandering Soles
• Personal Stuff
• Portfolio & Press

Best Time to Visit the Philippines: When to Go & When to Avoid

Home » Blog » Travel Tips » Best Time to Visit the Philippines: When to Go & When to Avoid

The Philippines is an excellent destination with so much to offer travelers. However, each season has its unique draws and drawbacks. We’re going over the pros and cons of each of the seasons in the Philippines to help you determine the best time to visit for YOU!

This island archipelago in the western Pacific has everything you could possibly want in a vacation. The Philippines has plenty of tropical islands with white sand beaches. Jungles that play host to myriad of different wildlife species. Mountains to climb, freshwater lakes to dive into, and even a large coral reef system beneath the sea.

In fact, this humble island nation gave us more to fall in love with than most places we’ve traveled.

Planning a trip here can be a bit confusing when trying to figure out when the best time to visit the Philippines is. There are two distinct seasons in the Philippines: the rainy season and the dry season.

This may sound pretty straight forward… you want to visit the Philippines during the dry season right?? Well, we think the answer is just a bit more complicated than that.

There are pros and cons to visiting during both seasons and as with any destination, the weather is never as predictable as we’d like it to be.

So this begs the question…

What time of year is best to visit the Philippines?

In short, you’ll have the best chance of comfortable weather during the coolest months of the dry season, December – February. It is advisable to avoid visiting from August through mid-October as this is Typhoon season.

Our personal pick would be to visit the Philippines during the shoulder season months of May and November as it is less crowded, but the weather is still good. 

Truthfully, as with all questions of this nature, there is no correct answer. Each month has its own unique draws (and  drawbacks  too).

But fear not…

We’re going to go over the pros and cons of visiting the Philippines during each month to help you decide which time of year is ideal for YOU.

Answer these questions to get started:

• Do you mind a bit of rain?
• Are you easily bothered by crowds?
• Are you negatively affected by high humidity?
• Do you prefer to spend your time outdoors hiking and cycling?
• Are you into water sports such as scuba diving or surfing?

Thinking about your answers to these questions is going to help you start to determine when to visit the Philippines.

Guide to seasons in the Philippines

Our experience.

• Geography overview

Weather in the Philippines

• Dry season months
• Rainy season months
• What to pack for the Philippines

Overall BEST time to visit the Philippines

Want a quick recommendation? Jump down to see our personal advice for the best time to visit the Philippines. Plus, we’ll share what times of year we’d avoid visiting!

• Our Recommendation…

Be sure to download our  complete packing list for Southeast Asia !  It’s packed with good suggestions and  insider tips  to help plan your Mexico vacation. And it’s completely  FREE , so why not!?

We visited the Philippines in January

When: January (2015)

Our experience:

• We had perfect weather on our 2-week trip!
• We traveled to 3 islands, and had amazing weather on all! Bohol was the only one where we experienced (just a tiny bit of!) rain.

Would we recommend visiting the Philippines in January? 

Absolutely! It is one of the best months to visit!

Geography overview of the Philippines

The Philippines is an archipelago in Southeast Asia, filling the space between the South China and the Philippine seas of the western Pacific. It’s the 5th largest island nation in the world, made up of more than 7,600 islands. However, only 11 of these islands make up 95% of the landmass of the entire country.

The country is part of a system in the western Pacific characterized by active volcanos and also prone to earthquakes. Aside from the 22,500+ miles of coastline and narrow coastal plains, the vast majority of the country is mountainous jungles and forests with rivers that run south to north.

While the land plays hosts to an impressive number of exotic and endemic species, there is also an exciting world resting below the surface just off shore.

The Philippines sits within the “Coral Triangle,” also known as the global center of marine biodiversity. This makes the Philippines one of the  best places to go scuba diving in the world !

The Philippines enjoys a tropical climate throughout the year that can be roughly divided into a dry season (November – April) and rainy season (May – October).

Temperatures in the Philippines don’t fluctuate much throughout the year. However, you will experience more extreme heat from the months of March – May, and slightly cooler temps in December – February.

There is also a significant chance of typhoons during the rainy season because the Philippines is within the typhoon belt. The country experiences around nineteen typhoons every year, particularly during the months of August – October.

Stats on Philippines Weather & Seasons

• Warmest months in the Philippines:  March/April/May
• Coolest months in Philippines:  January/February
• Rainiest months in Philippines:  July/August
• Driest month in Philippines:  February
• Most crowded months in Philippines:  December/January
• Least crowded months in Philippines:  June, July, August

Dry Season in the Philippines

The dry season in the Philippines runs from November through April and this is by far the most popular time for tourists to visit the region. December through February will be the coolest months, while temperatures reach their peak in May.

With unpredictable weather (likely due in part to the impact of climate change), it’s important to note that typhoons can occur sometimes as late as January. Although this is not typical.

Dry season months at a glance

November:  Officially the start of the dry season in the Philippines, however, there is still a chance of typhoons as weather can be unpredictable. 

• Average daily temp: ° F (30-31° C)  

December:  Cooler temperatures and mostly clear skies (with the slightest chance of a typhoon) mark the start of the peak travel season. 

• Average daily temp: ° F (29-31° C)  

January:  One of the coolest months in the Philippines means that temperatures will be cooler, without getting too cold. Peak of dry season means you’ll have great weather.

• Average daily temp: ° F (29-31° C)   

February:  Less crowded than January but with slightly warmer temperatures throughout the month. 

March:  Temperatures are starting to get hot, but conditions are still great for travel around the Philippines his month. Holy Week (the week leading up to Easter) is busy and best avoided if possible as accommodation will be scarce. 

• Average daily temp: ° F (32-33° C)  

April:  This is the hottest and final month of the dry season, so temperatures will be at their peak. 

• Average daily temp: ° F (32-34° C)  

Best places to visit in the Philippines during dry season

• Panay Island:  in January for Ati-Atihan festival
• Cebu:  for the Sinulog festival in January
• Clark, Pampanga:  They host the Philippine Hot Air Balloon Fiesta in February
• Boracay Beach :  one of the best beaches in the world and a popular tourist draw to the Philippines. 
• El Nido  in Palawan
• Sorsogon:  to go swimming with whale sharks (November – June)
• Apo Island  for scuba diving

Best things to do in the Philippines during dry season

• Go island hopping around some of the Philippines best island destinations: Hundred Islands National Park in Pangasinan, Cebu, Iloilo, Palawan, Boracay,  Bohol , Camiguin, Palaui and Siargao.
• Go scuba diving: the Philippines is within the “coral triangle” and has some of the  best scuba diving in the world .
• Try a new water sport: Whether it’s surfing, SUP boarding,  free diving , or snorkeling, there are so many fun water sports to try in the Philippines.
• Ati-Atihan Festival (usually the second week of January): This is the largest festival in the country. Celebrating an ancient land pact between settlers and the indigenous Atis people with street dancing and wild costumes. 
• Dinagyang festival (fourth week in January): A modern celebration of Ati-Atihan, including a parade on the Iloilo River. 
• Sinulog (3rd Sunday in January): The largest festival in Cebu, celebrating Santo Niño. There is a huge street parade, live music and food and drinks.
• Boracay International Dragon Boat Festival (April): Modeled after Hong Kong’s dragon boat races, this festival includes local and international teams competing in a course off White Beach. 

Pros of visiting the Philippines during the dry season

• Less likelihood of rain
• Humidity is bearable
• Mosquitoes/insects aren’t as big of a concern
• Lots of festivals and events happening

Cons of visiting the Philippines during the dry season

• Peak tourism season (particularly December – February)
• Accommodation prices will be higher, and harder to come by
• Major tourist attractions such as beaches will be very crowded 
• The hottest months of the year are March – May

Rainy Season in the Philippines

The rainy season in the Philippines runs from May – October, and vegetation is often at it’s most lush during the months of May – June. The majority of typhoons occur during the months of August – October and can cause road closures and flight cancelations. So its not ideal to be traveling during this time. 

The wet season doesn’t mean a constant rainfall and you will still have the chance of sunny skies and warm weather during these months.

Rainy season months at a glance

May:  Although its the technically the first month of the wet season, there is still a likelihood that you will encounter nice weather. The temperatures during the month are at their highest, so it’s a good time to visit the mountains or stay near the ocean. 

• Average daily temp: ° F (33-36° C)  

June:  The rains begin to make their way through the country this month. Starting in the north and making their way down. However areas around the central part of the country (Cebu) will still be dry for the most part. 

• Average daily temp: ° F (31-32° C)  

July:  Rainfall gets heavier, especially in the north. However, the central region (around Cebu) is still mostly dry. 

August:  Typhoon season begins towards the end of the month and heavy rainfall can be expected. Best to avoid this month if you are hoping for clear skies on your holiday. 

September:  Typhoon season is in full swing and it is unadvisable to travel during this month. 

• Average daily temp: ° F (30-32° C)  

October:  Most of the rains will have cleared up by the end of the month, however there is still the chance of the occasional typhoon. It would be best to avoid traveling in the beginning of the month. 

Best places to visit during the rainy season in the Philippines

• Mindanao:  This region sees the least rain during wet season, so it’s a good time to go without the crowds.
• Visayas  and  Palawan  are less prone to the dangers of typhoons than other areas in the Philippines.
• Banaue:  Visit the rice terraces  during May when it’s too hot in the lowlands, but temperatures are reasonable in the mountains and the vegetation is lush.
• Bacolod:  For the Masskara Festival in October.

Best things to do during the rainy season in the Philippines

• Take a  cooking class
• Get a massage, or go full-out and pamper yourself with a spa day!
• Flores de Mayo (May): A religious celebration of the coming rains. Processions happen all over the country, sometimes lit by candle light after dark.
• Masskara Festival (third Week of October): This festival in Bacolod boasts of colorful masks donned by dancers parading around the town.

Pros of visiting the Philippines during the rainy season

• The possibility of rain deters some travelers from visiting, so the Philippines tends to be less crowded.
• Typical tourist attractions such as beaches will be less crowded than in dry season.
• Traffic on the roads won’t be quite as busy as the typical hustle and bustle of high season.
• The weather is still fairly good and you can have plenty of rain-free days, particularly in May.

Cons of visiting the Philippines during the rainy season

• Torrential rains and thunderstorms are commonly experienced July – October
• The country experiences around nineteen typhoons every year during the rainy season
• Mosquitos…eek!
• Decreased visibility at dive sites due to weather makes it not the optimal time for diving

In our opinion…

In our opinion, the best time to visit the Philippines would be during the “shoulder season” months of May and November. Here are our primary reasons for choosing this time:

• Accommodation prices are not at peak rates
• Weather is mostly dry and less humid than the peak of rainy season
• Not too crowded
• Good sea conditions for diving/surfing/snorkeling
• Reasonable airfare can be found (Hint: Use these  hacks for booking cheap flights !)

What to pack for your trip to the Philippines

We know it can be overwhelming packing for a trip to a new destination. That’s why we spent hours creating this super helpful PDF just for you.

In this free SE Asia packing list PDF download , we’ve provided packing checklists for everything from clothing and toiletries (for both women and men!) to what shoes to pack and extra medicines you may want to have on-hand just in case.

Plus, we’re sharing tons of packing hacks and tips for traveling in SE Asia that you won’t find anywhere else!

Are you planning a trip to the Philippines?

We have ton of resources on travel in the Philippines and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Ultimate Philippines Travel Guide  for all the answers to your most burning questions, or read some of our favorite articles below.

• Ultimate Philippines 2-Week Itinerary
• How to Travel the Philippines on Less Than $50 a Day
• Top Things to Do in Boracay
• Things to Do in El Nido, Palawan

Save this article for later on Pinterest!

We want to hear from you!

We hope this article has helped you decide which is the best time to visit the Philippines for YOU. If you are planning a trip to the Philippines and still have questions, comment below and we’ll do our best to find you answers!

Comments (8) on “ Best Time to Visit the Philippines: When to Go & When to Avoid ”

Where would you suggest starting on 3 week trip to the Philippine’s? I’m travelling with my husband, hopefully in June, if not next April.

Many thanks, Zoe

Your suggestion about the shoulder season months to visit Philippines is very nice. Is it possible to save money on these bookings like I did on kuwait airways by booking through Cleartrip. I am a prudent soul and always enjoy saving money on travels. The images you have shared are colorful and energizing. Loved perusing your blog.

Beautiful country with a lot of beaches.

Hello, can you please share an updated version of the 2 week itinerary? I am sure post pandemic much has changed. Thanks

Yes going in August On the 13th hoping to have a good time still even tho it still will be the raining seasons I am also traveling with my son whom is Autistic want to go and get married out there Im just looking for a good time in shopping and and eating some many good different foods..Praying on the weather to just enjoy my life and my to be…Thanks…

How was the weather in august?

Still undecided when to go on vacation to the Philippines

Thanks! Great Info!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Top Places to Visit in the Philippines During the 'Ber' Months

Here are the best places to travel to this "ber" season as voted by you.

Traveling during the “ber” months in the Philippines can be a refreshing experience for both local and foreign tourists.

9. Siquijor

Despite the mysticism surrounding the island, Siquijor Island features several tourist spots that have remained relatively untouched.

YOU MAY LIKE:

Staying the night allows visitors to commune with nature with the simple yet functional accommodations available in Sagada.

7. Palawan and Bulacan

Visiting the lagoons on a kayak is one of the many activities visitors can do while in Palawan.

Visitors can learn a thing or two about being a social entrepreneur at the GK Enchanted Farm in Bulacan.

The San Agustin Museum once housed Augustinian friars who first arrived in the country in the 16th century.

The symmetrical-green hills in the towns of Carmen, Sagbayan, and Batuan turn brown during the dry season, which led to them being called the Chocolate Hills.

4. Tagaytay

A Ferris wheel-ride at the Sky Ranch gives visitors the chance to see Tagaytay 63 meters above the ground.

Aside from surfing, tourists can also go island-hopping when they visit Siargao.

Visiting the BenCab Museum in Baguio is a must for admirers of the national artist.

Cebu comes in at number one on the list for good reason.

• Register My Store
• Submit My Favorites
• Terms and Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• HTML Sitemap
• XML Sitemap

Best Time to Visit the Philippines: Month by Month Breakdown

The Philippines is one of the most beautiful and diverse archipelagos in the world, but its tropical location close to the equator also ensures that this is a country that’s very much at the mercy of the changing seasons.

The Filipino year is predominantly split into a wet and a dry season, which for travel purposes conform to the low and the high season.

The best time to visit the Philippines is the dry season, which falls between November and April, while the wet season, between May and October, is not the best time to be in the country. 

Plan carefully, because the wet season brings dangerous typhoons, landslides and disrupted travel, whereas the dry season brings clear skies and sunshine. 

To help you to plan your trip, here’s our guide to the best time to visit the Philippines.

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Philippines (Country Guide)  

Table of Contents

Philippines Dry Season

The dry season is easily the best time to visit the Philippines, because this is when the weather is absolutely glorious, and the sun is always shining. 

Generally speaking, the dry season runs from November through to April. However, the typhoon season can be notoriously unpredictable and it’s not uncommon for storms or even fully-fledged typhoons to hit the Philippines as late as December. 

To be guaranteed clear skies and no rain you’ll want to travel between January and April.

This though, is peak season, while March and April are the Filipino summers when the weather can be unbearably hot. 

November in the Philippines

November is seen as the start of the dry season in the Philippines, but be warned that the weather can still be unpredictable. 

Typhoons can still ravage the coast, although they are much rarer than in the wet season. If a typhoon does hit later in the year, it tends to be more dangerous, as people are less prepared. 

This is a good shoulder month though, as the crowds are still thin, and it’s not quite as humid or hot as other times of the year.

If you don’t mind the odd rainstorm, and if you keep an eye on the typhoon warnings, then November is a great time to visit the most popular destinations in the Philippines, as there will be fewer people around. 

Take a trip to Coron or El Nido for the start of the island hopping season, or visit Bohol or Cebu for the first dives of the dry season. 

December in the Philippines

December is one of the best times to be in the Philippines if you love a good fiesta because as a predominantly Catholic nation, Filipinos go absolutely crazy for Christmas. 

In fact, Filipinos start to prepare for Christmas as early as September – yes, really, September – and it all comes to a head in December.

Expect things to be incredibly busy though, as locals and tourists alike are moving around for the holiday season. It’s hectic, but it’s a lot of fun wherever you go in December. 

January in the Philippines

January is peak season in the Philippines, and weather-wise it’s possibly the best time to visit the Philippines. 

Conditions are beautiful, and it’s not too hot yet, while there’s also little chance of rainfall. The skies are clear and you won’t have to worry about typhoons. 

Popular islands such as Palawan, Coron and Cebu are going to be busy and expensive in January, although there’s no better time to be snorkeling or scuba diving. 

If you want to escape the crowds and enjoy the weather then there are plenty more islands to explore.

Head south, and visit Camiguin, just a boat ride away from Bohol but with none of the crowds. Brave Mindanao for an offbeat experience or head to Romblon or Mindoro for beach getaways. 

February in the Philippines

February is peak season too, although generally, it’s a little quieter than January. While the weather is wonderful for classic destinations such as Siargao, Cebu or Palawan, again it’s going to be busy. 

Take the chance to go snorkeling and diving, and to explore lesser-known destinations in February.

Visit Malapascua Island to dive with friendly Thresher Sharks, or head to Donsol for an ethically minded outing with Whale Sharks, as they pass through the region. 

March in the Philippines

March is busy and it’s hot, and locals will tell you that this is not the best time to visit the Philippines.

This is what locals call the Filipino Summer because temperatures can rise well above 40 degrees Celsius in parts of the country. 

It’s hot and it’s dry, so be careful in the sunshine. It’s great weather for a traditional beach holiday in Cebu or Bohol, while underwater conditions are great in Coron where you can find old sunken shipwrecks from World War II.

Head to the mountains though, if you want to cool down and escape the heat. 

April in the Philippines

April is just as hot, if not hotter than March, and it can be exceptionally busy if you are here during the Easter Holidays. 

There are lots of fiestas in April so it’s a fun time to be here, but some fiestas, like the Crucifixion in San Fernando, aren’t for the faint of heart. 

While the coast is hot and dry, the mountains of the Cordilleras, in Central Luzon, are at their best.

Head to the summer capital, Baguio, for cooler climes and intriguing history, before traveling to an even higher altitude, where you can find the spectacular Rice Terraces of Banaue. 

Philippines Wet Season 

The wet season usually begins in May, and ends in October, however, the rainy season can be entirely unpredictable in the Philippines. 

You might have exceptional weather in May and June, with the rains not arriving until later in the year, or you might find yourself in the midst of a typhoon as soon as the wet season begins. 

While things are cheaper in the wet season, travel around the Philippines can be fraught with danger, especially between June and August. 

This is not the best time of the year to visit the Philippines, because with the storms and rain can come canceled flights and ferries, blocked roads and landslides, and dangerous typhoon warnings. 

In the wet season, always keep an eye on the weather conditions, because natural disasters in the Philippines can be deadly. 

May in the Philippines

May could well be the best time to visit the Philippines because although it’s technically the start of the rainy season, you’ll be extremely unlucky to be caught up in typhoons or even rainstorms. 

You might experience clouds towards the end of the month, but it’s going to be dry for most of May.

The crowds will be thinning out now too, so head to Palawan and Coron for Island hopping. The snorkeling will still be superb because the water will be wonderfully clear still. 

Travel to Cebu and Bohol too, where prices are dropping. You can enjoy the beaches and the islands, while the Chocolate Hills will be at their most chocolaty and brown, as it’s the driest part of the year. 

June in the Philippines

By June though, it’s going to be rainy, and this is when the wet season really starts to kick off in earnest.

While flights and accommodation are going to be much cheaper in June, you need to be careful. 

The wet weather brings a huge array of dangers, and if there’s a typhoon warning you can be in trouble, as evacuations can be common.

Keep a close eye on the weather, and if you do decide to visit in June then keep to the west coast. Typhoons tend to hit the east coast first and move westwards. 

You can chance Palawan and Coron, or still enjoy much of Luzon too. 

July in the Philippines

July can be just as bad as June, weatherwise, and again it’s not the best time to visit the Philippines. 

Prices will be lower and there are none of the dry season crowds, but that’s because this is the middle of the typhoon season. 

You can head to the western islands, such as Palawan or Coron, but even here you’ll be experiencing rain, if not typhoons too. 

August in the Philippines

In August, the bad weather just keeps on coming. This is one of the worst times to be in the Philippines. 

It’s going to be rainy and there’s likely to be typhoon warnings all through the month.

You can still visit certain parts of the west, as you’ll have more warning of typhoons, but don’t go too remote as you’ll have difficulty getting out in the event of bad weather. 

September in the Philippines

The weather begins to calm down in September, although it can still be unpredictable. 

There are fewer typhoons, but again, these can always hit without warning in the rainy season. 

You’ll be enjoying the Philippines with fewer crowds around and lower prices, and it’s a good time to visit popular islands such as Cebu and Palawan before the dry season tourists begin to arrive. 

October in the Philippines

October is the last month of the rainy season, but it can go either way. You’ll either have beautiful sunny weather and clear skies, or lots of rain.

Typhoons are rare but don’t ignore the warnings and keep an eye on the weather still. 

Head to the beaches if it’s sunny, and start island hopping around El Nido or Coron before the crowds show up in the dry season. 

More on the Philippines:

• 20 Beautiful Places in the Philippines for your Bucket List
• 15 Incredible Islands in Coron You MUST Visit
• 30 Must Visit Tourist Spots in the Philippines
• 25 Amazing Drone Photos of the Philippines
• 24 Bohol Tourist Spots & Things to Do
• Coron Palawan: Itinerary & Best Things to Do
• 15 Awesome Things to Do in Manila (Itinerary for First Timers)
• Philippines: How to Get From Manila to Puerto Galera
• Travel Recap: 4 Weeks in the Philippines

Did you like this story? Share it!

Travel planning resources, about david stock.

I have always been an outdoorsman so becoming an adventure traveler was just the next natural step. I love nature, I love to get off the beaten path and I like to explore. I enjoy scuba diving and cars. And yes, Lina and I have a naked dog.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

• Philippines Tourism
• Philippines Hotels
• Philippines Bed and Breakfast
• Philippines Vacation Rentals
• Flights to Philippines
• Philippines Restaurants
• Things to Do in Philippines
• Philippines Travel Forum
• Philippines Photos
• All Philippines Hotels
• Philippines Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in Philippines
• Philippines
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Philippines in September - Philippines Forum

• Asia    
• Philippines    

Philippines in September

• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• Asia forums
• Philippines forum

If I can get any advise on weather around this time (could possibly go a bit later then September). Any info on the rainy season down South will be helpful - like if it rains the whole day or you still get a good amount of good weather.

Thanks in advance! :)

As someone who lives in a so called temperate zone of southeast Australia, it's amazing how quickly heavy rainfall can turn back into a hot and sometimes even a sunny day in Philippines. That might be over simplifying things, but it's my perception.

In Manila , 1630 seems to be a fairly regular time for rain. It doesn't seem quite as predictable in the south or centrak areas (Mindanao or Visayas island groups respectively).

we do get some rain in september but as long as it's not a typhoon, it's ok. march to june would be a better time to really enjoy the beaches coz thats summer in the philippines. palawan is a good place to visit, beaches, underground river, island hopping. another good place to see is bohol and boracay, both have white sand beaches.

Thanks so much for the help. Yes I think we are going to change the time of our trip and rather go next year in the summer! This just gives me more time to plan on what we will do there!! :)

This winter, they have an had an El Nina season where the south in particular seems to get more rain and wind, not typhoons really.

I would suggest the early part of the year for your vacation tho( even January).

The temperatures are about 29 to 32 C, so still very nice!

The flights are much more reasonable and the sea-conditions are clearer, due to the lack of heavy rain.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

• Bohol; Alona Beach or Dumaluan Beach and general ?'s 6:28 pm
• airport shuttle 5:52 pm
• How Soon Can We Know of PAL Flight Delays at NAIA? 3:40 pm
• 7 / 8 days relaxed itinerary around El nido 7:41 am
• Midnight transfer from NAIA Terminal 1 to Terminal 4 7:24 am
• Remarkably Mild for Summer the last few days and an escape today
• 1st trip To Philippines today
• El Nido weather n July 2024 today
• Last ferry to Bohol today
• Van transfer PPS to El Nido and vice versa yesterday
• Places to stay in Cebu City yesterday
• Beach destinations drivable from Manila yesterday
• Grab yesterday
• Fishing yesterday
• Summer getaway with a tight budget 6 replies
• Cebu Pacific booking Online 16 replies
• Air philippines - online booking 3 replies
• Best honeymoon spot in the philippines?? 18 replies
• Dont Book a Hotel through Agoda 5 replies
• Florida bus Sampaloc 113 replies
• Tune Hotels opening in the Philippines 65 replies
• Best Place to Stay in Bohol 3 replies
• tiger airways 11 replies
• what airlines fly from Hong Kong to Caticlan (Boracay)? 2 replies

Philippines Hotels and Places to Stay

• HOW TO USE the Philippine Forums (Try the search box first)
• WEATHER dont ask please read here!
• AIRPORT FAQs Which Terminal, Airport Website, Terminal Fees, Indian Visa on Arrival!
• An Introductory Guide=WHERE TO VISIT IN THE PHILIPPINES!
• 7 Things Foreigners are surprised to learn about the Philippines!
• The "SECRETS OUT" excellent summary article on the Philippines!
• Philippines One of TOP TEN VALUE destinations in the world!
• 10 REASONS to visit the Philippines!
• 25 EMERGING Philippine Tourism Hot Spots!
• 25 BEST Island destinations for your bucket list!
• The BEST Islands, Beaches and Resorts
• TOP 12 beaches in the Philippines
• (JBR's) Just Back Reports
• TOP THINGS TO SEE AND DO
• I'm Clueless. Help!
• 1st Timer in the Philippines. What to do?
• Is the Philippines Safe for a Solo Female Traveller?
• Is the Philippines SAFE for me to visit?
• Thailand vs Philippines
• Travel tips you should know before visiting the Philippines
• CLIMATE and When to Visit
• Philippines:Travel on a BUDGET
• Getting from Clark (Pampanga) to Metro Manila (and vice versa)
• Is the Philippines suitable for BACKPACKERS!
• Is Self Driving recommended-What are my options?
• Authentic Philippine CUISINE and must try dishes
• HONEYMOON Ideas in the Philippines
• Great Filipino travel videos?
• Metro Manila hotel buffet lunches and dinners
• TRAVEL GUIDE: Philippines and Manila!
• FESTIVALS In The Philippines
• NIGHTLIFE and Best Bars in Manila
• SCAMS to be aware of!
• DIVING in the Philippines
• Best Snorkelling Spots in the Philippines.
• FAQ: Transport Company, GUIDE and DRIVERS!
• Travel Blogs Philippines
• Top 10 Best HOSTELS in Metro Manila!
• Should I visit MANILA and what is there to do?
• BUS schedules
• 25 HISTORICAL places to visit in the Philippines
• Manila airport guide, taxis, changing terminals and where to stay
• Accessing the full site of Tripadvisor from a mobile
• Manila airport guide, taxi and hotels near various terminals

• TALK WITH US
• English English Deutsch

Weather in the Philippines in September

You can definitely expect heavy rainfall along with the rising possibility of typhoons for the weather in the Philippines in September. The intensity of the monsoon is at its peak and the weather is very similar to that in August. However, the good news is that the islands are spread over a large area. So if you’re looking to escape the bad weather, there’s always somewhere to go. The bad news? The seas can be rough, and the boat trips can vary from being outright dangerous to even cancelled or postponed. Don’t get disheartened though, read through our article on the weather in the Philippines in September to figure it out.

Weather in Luzon in September

Traveling to the Philippines in September can get challenging if you’re in Luzon. The monsoon winds hit it hard and it experiences rainfall almost everyday in most places. The weather is highly unpredictable in Manila, as it can rain anytime without warning and you have to play each day by ear. We recommend carrying a good raincoat or windcheater in case you’re stuck in some showers. It is humid and hot when it doesn’t rain, but the overcast weather and winds help cool things down.

We recommend avoiding trekking altogether. Trails are very slippery and the unpredictable weather increases the chances of things going wrong. The weather in the Philippines in September calls for some flexibility. This is especially true if you’re in Luzon. Expect delays due to cancelled ferries and flights in the event of bad weather.

weather in Visayas in September 

Even though the weather can be unpredictable, the most likely weather pattern will be a bout of rainfall for a short time each day. The rest of the day is mostly fine, when you can indulge in outdoor activities. If you’re travelling to the Philippines in September we recommend Cebu, Bohol, and Panglao Island. Additionally, on clear days with good weather, diving and snorkeling are both possible.

However, the weather in Coron and Palawan are not as travel-friendly- the rains are unpredictable. So if you’re determined to visit these places to sunbathe and relax, they can end up being a let-down. The good thing is neither of these destinations are in the way of storms or typhoons.

Weather in Mindanao in September  

The weather in the Philippines in September is as rainy as it is great. Surfers, you’re in luck. Just like in August , Siargao is great for surfers during September. There will be a fair amount of tourists who find their way to Siargao, since it’s a haven for surfers during this season. The winds and waves are strong and it really makes for a great experience. If you’re looking for an escape to the tourists, visit Camiguin, where the climate is similar to that of Bohol. Davao is still hot during September with temperatures touching anywhere between 30° – 35°C (86° – 95°F).

Restrict your flying to Cebu, and ideally stick to the Visayas, and the weather in the Philippines in September will not get in the way of you having a nice holiday. Divers can choose from Oslob, El Nido, Puerto Princesa, Panglao, Bohol and Malapascua, as long as you go on a clear day and the waters are friendly. All in all, despite the rains, the Philippines is a gorgeous place. It is the perfect location for that scenic holiday on your mind. Click on Plan Your Trip for any further assistance you may need.

helping you travel your way

We provide a helping hand to independent travellers who need assistance with planning and booking their trip. The primary goal is to turn your dream holiday into reality.

find out how

Let our clients tell you why us

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE

Safety in the Philippines

The Philippines is a dreamy destination with picturesque beaches and c.....

Weather in the Philippines in October

The weather in the Philippines in October is mainly rainy, with cloudy.....

Weather in the Philippines in August

Rain clouds fill the skies when it comes to the weather in the Philipp.....

Our Top 10 Islands in the Philippines

With 7000 islands, picking the best islands to visit in the Philippine.....

LEAVE A REPLY

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Protect Your Trip »

Best places to visit in september 2024.

With fall just settling in and the hassles associated with summer travel dwindling, September is the perfect time for a getaway. By now, most tourists will have made their way out of popular destinations, and airfare and hotel rates will start to slide. U.S. News took into account these factors and more, including expert analysis and traveler sentiment, to come up with the best places to visit in September. Whether you're an adventure traveler looking for that next great trail to hike or an urbanite looking for a new city to buzz about, we've got a destination for you. Have a favorite? Cast your vote below to have a say in next year's list.

Sequoia National Park

Gros morne national park, honolulu - oahu, whitsunday islands, mount rainier national park, guilin and lijiang river national park, grand canyon national park, fiordland national park, the berkshires.

Moab, Utah, is a good choice for travelers seeking adventure and unparalleled natural beauty on their next vacation. Arches National Park sits a mere 5 miles north of town, making Moab a great home base for activities like hiking, horseback riding and canyoneering. Or, crank up the tunes on a scenic drive through the park. September is warm in the 70s and 80s, which makes other outdoor pursuits like rafting, biking and stargazing ideal.

With average temperatures sitting in the 70s and 80s in September, the Greek island of Santorini entices travelers with favorable weather, sunny skies and warm waters, perfect for swimming at some of Greece's top shorelines like Red Beach and Kamari Beach. After sipping vino at one of the region's top-notch wineries, dine alfresco along Amoudi Bay or take in the island's stunning natural beauty on the roughly 6-mile hike from Fira to Oia. Plan your vacation for mid-September to catch the Ifestia Festival, an annual event paying respect to the island's volcanic history through live music and a fireworks display.

September is the sweet spot for visiting Sequoia National Park – summer crowds thin as kids go back to school and temperatures remain comfortable in the high 60s, but roads and services have not yet closed for the winter season. This makes popular activities like hiking through the Giant Forest and driving the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway even more enjoyable. Arrive on the fourth Saturday of September to take advantage of National Public Lands Day, one of the National Park Service's free admission days.

Adventurous travelers will be enamored with Gros Morne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on the Canadian island of Newfoundland. Not only can visitors sail past a glacier-carved fjord on a boat tour of Western Brook Pond, but they'll have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to walk upon the Earth's exposed mantle in the Tablelands. While summer is a popular time to travel to Gros Morne, a September visit brings added benefits like vibrant fall colors, crowd-free trails and active wildlife.  

Oahu is Hawai'i's most-visited island and Waikiki is one of America's most popular beaches , so if you want ample room to spread out on its famous shores, visiting during the fall shoulder season is your best bet. In September, the island sees fewer tourists but still offers hot, dry weather and warm water ideal for swimming and surfing. The discounted rates in September will also make your vacation that much more relaxing, and you'll be able to experience one of Hawai'i's biggest cultural events, the Aloha Festivals.

Situated off the coast of Queensland, Australia, this chain of 74 islands are loved for their postcard-worthy beaches and proximity to the Great Barrier Reef. Base your stay on popular Hamilton Island, which features an array of adults-only resorts, or camp under the stars on Whitsunday Island, home to the popular Whitehaven Beach. Must-do activities in the Whitsundays include lounging on the sand, snorkeling, scuba diving and sailing. Luckily, travelers who visit in September will be treated to low humidity and consistently sunny skies with average temperatures resting between the high 70s and low 80s.

Although September technically falls within this Washington park's shoulder season, travelers will still find plenty to love about an autumn visit to Mount Rainier National Park. Depending on your elevation, average temperatures can range from the mid-50s to the low 70s in September, and the region's beautiful fall colors make it a perfect time for leaf peeping . Take advantage of the pleasant conditions by hiking the popular Skyline Trail or admiring the stunning views of Mount Rainier from Sunrise, the highest point of the park that can be reached by car.

One of the world's most impressive national parks , Guilin and Lijiang River National Park in southern China is downright magical in September. The weather is cool and dry, making it easy to enjoy the park's mist-covered karst mountains and rice terraces, along with other highlights like the Reed Flute Cave and Elephant Trunk Hill. And while you'll surely want to explore on foot, a guided boat cruise down the Li River is no doubt the best way to soak up Guilin's stunning scenery.

Visiting Arizona's Grand Canyon during its peak summer season can be risky (high daytime desert temperatures and steep hikes don't mix well). September not only offers a slightly cooler climate but fewer crowds to contend with now that the kids will be back in school. The park's South Rim, which is usually bustling with tourists in summer, sees fewer visitors come September, making it a great time for hiking traveler-approved paths like the Rim Trail. What's more, destinations like the highly underrated North Rim are still open throughout the month.

The capital of Wales is a beautiful destination year-round, but September's mild temperatures (think: highs sit in the mid-60s) and colorful fall foliage make this an ideal time to plan a trip. Foodies will love dining on delicious Welsh cuisine at annual events like the Amgueddfa Cymru Food Festival, held at the open-air St Fagans National Museum of History, and the Abergavenny Food Festival, which is hosted by the nearby town of Abergavenny. When you're not enjoying Cardiff's culinary specialties, spend your time exploring Roath Park or taking a guided tour of the historic Cardiff Castle.

Located on New Zealand's South Island, Fiordland National Park draws travelers with its stunning yet dramatic landscapes . While the weather in the park can be unpredictable in September (a spring month in the Southern Hemisphere), Fiordland typically sees daytime temperatures that hover in the 50s. These cool but comfortable days are when Fiordland's marine life, including penguins, fur seals and dolphins, tend to be most active, so be on the lookout while cruising or kayaking through jaw-dropping Milford Sound. Also save time for hiking one of the park's three Fiordland Great Walks trails.

The capital of South Korea is especially lovely come September. Temperatures are warm in the high 70s, and hotel and airfare prices have begun to drop after the busy summer season. Plus, with smaller crowds, it will be easier to enjoy top destinations like Bukchon Hanok Village and Bukhansan National Park. Travelers who plan their getaway for the end of the month can also experience Chuseok, a three-day harvest festival known as Korean Thanksgiving.

September is one of the best times to travel to this northern Morocco city, renowned for its well-preserved architecture and vibrant culture. Not only will you avoid summer's sweltering heat, but visiting in the offseason means you won't have to worry about rubbing elbows with hordes of other tourists. Spend your visit strolling through the magnificent Medina of Fez, a must-visit UNESCO World Heritage Site, and remember to set aside time for a peaceful walk through the Jardin Jnan Sbil public gardens.  

This mountainous area of western Massachusetts offers a mix of outdoor activities and must-see cultural attractions. September brings crisp fall weather to the Berkshires (think: average temperatures in the high 60s) that is perfect for touring the grounds of the region's museums and historical sites. Plus, the pleasant temps make it possible to comfortably hike Mount Greylock or Monument Mountain's trails, which offer an up-close look at the beautiful fall foliage that starts appearing in September. A fall getaway also brings fun seasonal events like the Housatonic Heritage Walks and the Lenox Apple Squeeze.

Occupying about 90 miles of the California coast, Big Sur draws travelers with its dramatic cliffs and picturesque beaches. Visit in September to take advantage of the warm, dry weather lingering from summer without dealing with the peak season's crowds. Must-do activities here include hiking through state parks like Julia Pfeiffer Burns and Andrew Molera, snapping pics of Pfeiffer Beach's impressive rock formations and surfing at Sand Dollar Beach. September is also an ideal time for whale watching, so keep an eye out for migrating blue and humpback whales.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Pigeon Forge

Scottish Highlands

Glacier National Park

You may be interested in.

Best Fall Vacations

Best Adventure Vacations in the U.S.

Central & South America

Best Places to Visit in Central and South America in 2023

Best Places to Visit in August 2024

Best Places to Visit in October 2024

Best U.S. National Parks for 2024

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

The 26 Best Zoos in the U.S.

Rachael Hood November 16, 2023

44 Cheap Tropical Vacations That Feel Expensive

Holly Johnson|Alissa Grisler November 10, 2023

What are you looking for?

7 best places to visit in the philippines in 2024.

We LOVE the Philippines and it's rapidly becoming one of the world’s hottest destinations for backpackers and travellers, both young and old.

Because it is possibly the most beautiful country in the world!

I’ve said a few times now how magnificent the waters are in the Philippines, and this makes for some of the best snorkelling and diving opportunities on the planet.

But there are so many other things to do in The Philippines that make it such a great place to visit; including meeting friendly locals, eating great food, drinking cheap booze and discovering scenic waterfalls.

There’s a lot (LOT) more as well, but we’re not here to talk about how much I love the Philippines.

We’re here instead to talk about the best places to visit in the Philippines and which islands you should consider adding to your own Philippines itinerary .

Well, after 4 weeks spent discovering numerous islands, I’ve whittled my personal Philippines bucket list down to these 7 places.

I’ve left out a few stops that I don’t think stacked up; and by visiting each of these 7 Philippines destinations, you will have ample chance to see all of the country’s best sights and to uncover your own love for this nation made up of more than 7,000 islands.

So, in reverse order, here’s what I believe to be the 7 best places to visit in the Philippines this year...

Travellerspoint

7. Port Barton

Based on our experience backpacking this amazing country, it seems, though Port Barton is quite up and coming, it is still one of the most undiscovered beautiful places in The Philippines.

Despite being just a few hours south of El Nido , it has remained for years a relatively unknown spot.

I’m not sure why it’s suddenly started getting more popular, perhaps new roads have recently been built which have made it accessible.

Either way, there are new resorts, and homestays cropping up every month in order to cope with the sudden growth in tourists.

Getting 24 hour electricity at the end of 2018 may have also increased its popularity, though WiFi is still far from stable (even by Philippines standards!)

Here, you’ll discover a quaint little town, filled mostly with small wood-built houses and a gorgeous beach area; perfect for swimming, relaxing and enjoying sunsets.

Port Barton is perfectly situated, close to a number of sand bars, small islands and coral reefs, meaning it offers wonderful day trips.

What we loved about Port Barton compared to other places in Palawan is how relatively less busy it is and how much more pristine the reefs are.

You also have the chance to swim with turtles!

Update*** Unlike during our visit back in 2019, Port Barton do have a few ATM machines now although we'd still recommend bringing plenty of cash with you as many establishments don't take card (well they certainly didn't during our trip).

Read Also: Our Ultimate Palawan Itinerary

What are my 3 favourite things to do in Port Barton?

• Swimming with turtles - tours like this island-hopping boat trip offer the perfect opportunity to spot and swim with sea turtles
• Getting amazing coffee at Milano Cafe (honestly go there if you love coffee like us!)
• Enjoying a sunset meal on the beach

Where should you stay in Port Barton?

As Port Barton is still very much up and coming, new accommodation is constantly being built and you’ll find plenty of new homestays and resorts to stay at each and every month.

We stayed at Eashanti's Place and I would highly recommend it, as it was clean, well-priced and the staff were very friendly.

It’s just a very short walk into town and the air conditioning is decent.

Aside from this, Airbnb and Booking.com are good places to start your search for accommodation in Port Barton.

6. Badian, Cebu

Though Badian is small, it is one of the best cities to visit in The Philippines and is well situated close to a number of the best things to see and do on Cebu.

In particular, a whole string of incredible waterfalls, with the pinnacle being Kawasan Falls (just be aware that this wonder shuts at 6 pm).

These are some of the nicest falls anywhere in The Philippines and truly are Instagram-worthy with their pure blue pool at the base.

However, all around the area you’ll find other lovely waterfalls and the most popular tours here are canyoneering tours where a guide takes you further and further down through a string of waterfalls and allows you to climb and jump in a number of them.

The second best reason to visit Badian is to head to nearby Moalboal where you can participate in The Sardine Run .

For some reason it is here, just off the coast, that hundreds of thousands of sardines gather in great shoals.

All you need is a snorkel and fins and you can head a dozen metres out and swim among this great hoard of sardines. ‍

What are my 3 favourite things to do in Badian, Cebu?

• The Sardine Run in Moalboal - the best time to see this phenomenon is between November and May
• Swimming in Kawasan Falls - this canyoneering and cliff jumping tour at Kawasan Falls is perfect for adventure lovers!
• Diving into Cambais Falls - the falls typically shut at 5 pm

Where should you stay in Badian, Cebu?

Most travellers seem to stay in Moalboal, which is a lot better developed than the Badian region and has more choices.

However, what makes Badian nice is that it’s far less crowded and you are much closer to Kawasan Falls, which you should get to nice and early.

We stayed at “TGH” The Guest House Badian and I would highly recommend them.

There is little other choice for accommodation nearby and these guys had clean rooms, very good WiFi and great food!

They also helped us out by hiring a moped and sorting our transport across to Cebu City.

Of course, if you’re looking for a livelier area and the chance to meet more people, then Moalboal would be a better shout.

For other accommodation options in Moalboal, try out Booking.com or Airbnb .

Read Also: Getting Around The Philippines: Everything Explained!

El Nido has been a popular place to visit in the Philippines for a long time, perhaps the MOST popular tourist spot in the country.

For this reason you’ll discover a well developed tourist industry, with the main attraction being a selection of day long island hopping tours ( like this one ).

You have the chance to sail deep into the ocean, discovering snorkel points, wide canyons and truly breathtaking surroundings.

In the port, there are literally dozens of boats that go out every day and tours are all still relatively cheap.

You also get to enjoy a freshly made Philippino BBQ for lunch.

There really are so many great things to do in El Nido , including visiting Nacpan Beach, believed by many to be the best beach in Asia.

The only issue I had with El Nido is that there doesn’t seem to be very much to care for the corals, much less so than in Port Barton or Coron.

They senselessly let their anchors drag along the corals, and with dozens of ships doing this constantly every day, you can see that at many of the points, corals are all but dead near the shores.

Read Also:  3 Day El Nido Itinerary

What are my 3 favourite things to do in El Nido?

• A sunset walk along Nacpan Beach
• Volleyball on Seven Commado’s Beach
• Snorkelling on an Island hopping tour - This full-day island hopping tour will take you to some beautiful spots including Bacuit Bay and the Secret Lagoon

Where should you stay in El Nido?

We stayed in 2 places in El Nido, and as we left it late for choosing accommodation, we were very limited in choice.

That being said, the first place we stayed in, Mountain Side Inn , was superb!

They had fast WiFi (fast enough to stream the final season of Game of Thrones), really friendly staff and nice rooms.

It’s nothing fancy but is very affordable and well located close to town.

If you’re booking further in advance, then you will be able to find a much wider variety of hotels and other accommodation on Booking.com .

El Nido has long been one of the Philippines most popular places to visit so there’s plenty of options to choose from. 

Read Also: Our Epic 4 Week Philippines Itinerary

4. Siquijor

Siquijor is the furthest south of theses places to visit in the Philippines and a destination that you really can’t miss!

It is a relatively small island, meaning you can drive it and see many of Siquijor’s best attractions in less than a day.

Which is perfect, as it gives you plenty of time to slow down, relax and enjoy the stunning beaches.

Many people who visit go snorkeling and diving off the coast, however, by far the best attraction in Siquijor is Cambugahay Falls.

These are now my favorite waterfalls from anywhere in the world, and are a series of beautiful milky blue pools in sequence.

Gorgeous falls flow into each one, but what makes Cambugahay so unique is that the locals have built bungee rope swings into them!

In the main pool there are 2 large swings, and I had hours of fun doing flips and tricks into them.

It is basically a massive playground and you will also see perhaps a dozen local children playing there every day.

On the island, you’ll also find some other nice waterfalls, though if you visit in the dry season (like we did) a lot of these will be dried up!

My other favourite thing to do in Siquijor is to go diving in the ocean from platforms built into the rocks at Lugnason Falls.

What are my 3 favourite things to do in Siquijor?

• Rope swinging at Cambugahay Falls (check out my full guide)
• Diving in the ocean at Salagdoong Beach
• The hidden springs at Lugnason Falls

Where should you stay in Siquijor?

Once again, we were very happy with where we stayed in Siquijor and AMK Traveller’s Hub ended up being well-located, offering great rooms and with very friendly owners.

It also backs onto a local playground/community area where you can play basketball with the locals.

Siquijor is apparently still growing in popularity and new choices are cropping up every year.

We met an Italian guy while we were there who was staying a few months and looking for land upon which to build his own hostel.

You’ll find loads of affordable accommodation in Siquijor through Booking.com .

Read Also: Our 3 day Siquijor itinerary

Compared to El Nido, Coron is still relatively new, despite being just a short ferry ride around.

Perhaps it was because we stayed on Paolyn Houseboats (more on that below), but I really fell in love with Coron.

It is home to a number of beautiful snorkelling spots and lakes, with nearby Kayangan Lake supposedly the clearest and cleanest of any lake in the world.

To visit these, you go on a day long island hopping tour ( like this one ).

During the middle of the day, a number of these spots get very busy, so it’s good to go on a tour that leaves early and allows you to escape the hordes (again, more on this below).

Once again, you get to enjoy a fresh BBQ lunch on a pristine beach and there are endless chances to swim and enjoy the beauty of Coron.

What are my 3 favourite things to do in Coron?

• Staying on board Paolyn Houseboats - Undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places we've ever stayed, with a stunning location
• Snorkelling over pristine reefs - This Coron boat tour offers plenty of snorkeling opportunities, as you'll visit five popular destinations
• Kayaking to hidden beaches

Where should you stay in Coron?

100%, the best place to stay in Coron has to be Paolyn Houseboats .

Simply put, nowhere else ever has the chance to compare, as Paolyn Houseboats is entirely unique and one of a kind.

They are the only place that has the legal right to offer accommodation on the water so close to Coron Island, as the island and surrounding water is owned by the indigenous tribes that occupy it.

Here, you have the opportunity to completely escape the masses and stay in a secluded, paradise-like cove complete with your own private snorkelling, paddleboarding and kayaking opportunities.

Also, it’s perfectly located next to many of the best things to do in Coron , so you get to all of the busiest spots before tourists do.

It also helps that they are able to offer tours starting at least 2 hours earlier than those from Coron town.

Of course, it is a bit pricey and not everyone can afford it; if not then we found that the best way to find half decent and affordable places in Coron town was through Airbnb.

Read Also: Our In-Depth Review of Paolyn Houseboats

So, my second favourite place to visit in the Philippines is Bohol.

This fairly large island needs at least a few days spent there if you wish to get out of the main touristy area of Panglao.

Here, inland you will discover a strange phenomenon known as the Chocolate Hills.

Literally hundreds of large brown hills that cover the landscape in all directions.

As well as this, you have all the other things you’ve come to know and love in the Philippines, including white sandy beaches, hidden waterfalls, rice terraces, gorgeous rivers and day trips to other islands.

You also have the chance to see dolphins, swim in cave pools, have lunch sailing down Loboc River and possibly even swim with sardines!

It’s too much to talk about right now, but I recommend you check out my guide on the best things to do in Bohol to learn more about why I loved this place so much!

What are my 3 favourite things to do in Bohol?

• Exploring secret waterfalls with a local guide
• Driving through the Chocolate Hills - there's also a cool adventure park located here, where you can enjoy hiking, mountain-biking, ziplining and more!
• Getting lost near Loboc River - this awesome full-day tour includes a paddle boarding activity along the scenic Loboc River

Where should you stay in Bohol?

In Bohol, the majority of people stay in the southwest of the island in an area called Panglao.

We stayed for 3 nights in Palm Rise Resort and it was a great choice, away from the hectic nature of town and with modern rooms and an awesome swimming pool.

All around this area, Booking.com has loads of great hostel and hotel deals .

However, if you read my 3 day Bohol itinerary post , you’ll see that I think the best way to visit Bohol is to stay in a few different locations across the island.

This saves you a lot of time driving and gives you a better chance to experience all that it has to offer.

That being said, if you are there to party and meet lots of young people, then yes staying solely in Panglao would be your better choice.

Okay, it was pretty tough choosing my number one favourite place in the Philippines, but Siargao just squeaked the victory!

For a few reasons.

Number one is that it is home to some of the world’s best surf locations.

Located on the far western edge of The Philippines, you have the chance to surf here at locations suited for beginners right through to expert surfers.

They even host professional surf competitions here every year because the waves get big enough.

I really enjoyed our island hopping day trip here as well, because the islands nearby are simply stunning, as are the snorkelling spots.

Plus, I think the 6 or 7 rum and limes we had on the boat probably helped!

Back on Siargao, you have the chance to do a number of day trips around the island, where you’ll find untouched beaches, snorkel spots and endless bamboo forests.

There are some cool clubs in the main town area, as well as restaurants and bars, making this a cool spot to party and meet people as well.

With so many adventurous and exciting things to do, Siargao really does have it all (almost!).

Check out my guide on island hopping in Siargao to book the perfect tour.

What are my 3 favourite things to do in Siargao?

• Surfing incredible waves
• An island hopping tour to paradise islands
• A day trip to the mangroves

Where should you stay in Siargao?

Once again, there is a particular area in Siargao that everyone stays, and this is called General Luna.

As Siargao is a relatively small island, you can easily do a day trip of the entire island without being on a moped for hours on end.

So it’s best to find somewhere to stay here.

We spent 2 nights in KC’s Place 1 (which was an Airbnb but looks to have since been taken down) and then 3 nights in Nine Clouds Homestyle Accommodation .

The latter of which I would recommend more as it’s much closer to the action and still in a fairly secluded and beautiful part of the island.

What’s great is that there's a “fixed” rate for taxis around town, so getting to clubs, bars and restaurants is pretty cheap no matter where in town you stay.

As we booked so late, it was hard finding a big array of accommodation, so I would recommend booking far in advance and having a good look on Booking.com or Airbnb .

Bonus tip! There is a shortage of mopeds and helmets in Siargao, so I advise booking at least a couple weeks in advance and then messaging your chosen property and asking them to reserve you a moped and helmet.

Read Also: Our 4 Day Siargao Itinerary

Planning where to visit in The Philippines, what next?

Luckily for you, Cazzy and I have gone ahead and put together some awesome, in-depth guides on all of the best places to visit in the Philippines for couples, families and solo travellers alike.

In each one, we offer up the best things to do, as well as added tips like itineraries and how to get there.

They are as follows:

• Coron --> Best Things To Do In Coron: Island Tour Packages & More!
• El Nido --> Best Things To Do In El Nido (Philippines)
• Siargao --> Epic Siargao Itinerary: The Best Things To Do In Siargao
• Bohol --> Best Things To Do In Bohol {+ Ideal 3 Day Itinerary}
• Siquijor --> Awesome Things To Do In Siquijor: A 3 Day Siquijor Itinerary

And for planning the rest of your Philippines adventure, make sure you check out Our Ultimate 4 Week Philippines Itinerary and our complete guide to getting around The Philippines .

If you have any more questions with planning where to go in The Philippines, just drop a comment below and I will help however I can.

Similarly, if you’ve visited The Philippines and think I’ve missed anywhere then let me know.

We will definitely be returning one day and I’d be happy to find more places to visit.

Need help planning your trip ? 

Our Philippines backpacking guide will help! 

Leave a comment

Let us know what you think.

5 million people can't be wrong

The Most Beautiful Places to Visit in the Philippines

Filipinos are renowned for the immense pride they take in their homeland. Anything made in the Philippines or achieved by a Filipino, especially when recognized abroad, sets off a flood of national joy. In a country as startlingly beautiful as the Philippines, there is indeed plenty to be proud of. With that in mind, let’s take a look at some of the most beautiful places to visit in this nation of more than 7,000 islands.

Did you know you can now travel with Culture Trip? Book now and join one of our premium small-group tours to discover the world like never before.

El Nido, Philippines

With its gorgeous rock formations, pristine beaches and clear aquamarine waters, El Nido is one of the best attractions that makes Filipinos beam with pride. Located on the northern tip of mainland Palawan , the municipality of El Nido has been increasingly drawing tourists year after year, with more travellers, both local and foreign, discovering its undeniable beauty. The area is responsible in large part for why Palawan is recognized –and has been for some time – as the best island in the world .

Also within the gorgeous province of Palawan is the municipality of Coron. With crystal clear waters perfect for snorkelling, powdery white sandy beaches and innumerable picture-perfect landscapes, Coron is a beach bum’s dream. As in El Nido, travellers can charter a small boat or join organized tour groups for day trips around the many islands and lagoons here. One stop that should not be missed is the breathtaking Kayangan Lake, dubbed the cleanest in the country and surrounded by stunning karst walls; truly a sight to behold, both above and below the water.

Become a Culture Tripper!

Sign up to our newsletter to save up to 500$ on our unique trips..

See privacy policy .

Tubbataha Reefs

Southeast of the island of Palawan, within the Sulu Sea, lies one of the best marine reserves and dive sites in the world; the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park. A sprawling system of coral reefs (containing about half of the world’s coral species) that is home to an extensive variety of fish, sharks, dolphins, and whale species, the Tubbataha Reefs is one of the most sought-after waters for divers on the planet. For anyone interested when is the best time to visit, the limited three-month-long dive season runs from mid-March to mid-June and the only way to explore its spectacular waters is by visiting on a live-aboard boat.

Banaue Rice Terraces

The Philippines is studded with natural beauty from the depths of its seas to the top of its mountains. Another site in the archipelago that Filipinos can rightfully brag about are the rice terraces of Banaue. More than 2,000 years old, these rice terraces are a product of manual work carried out by the ancestors of the region’s population. The picturesque terraces are still valuable to locals today, providing an efficient space upon which to farm. Though the Banaue Rice Terraces are the most prominent, there are several other scenic rice terraces within the mountainous region of the Cordilleras.

Chocolate Hills

The pride of Bohol Province is a historical attraction. The rolling landscapes of the Chocolate Hills were named after their colour transition taking place between the wet and dry seasons when they grow a deeper and deeper shade of brown. Over 1,000 hills are estimated to be scattered across the 50sqkm (5,000ha) area.

Intramuros, nestled within today’s restless Metro Manila, is a walled area that played an important role in the country’s history. The heart of old Manila, the area packs a lot into its 0.5sqkm (50ha) size and with cobblestone streets, preserved ruins and colonial architecture, Intramuros is a must-see for visitors to the capital. Visitors can go on walking tours to learn about Intramuros and the country’s history and take kalesa (horse-drawn calash) rides around the historic zone.

Perhaps the second most popular Philippine island next to Palawan is the island of Boracay. Known for its powdery white sand, spectacular sunsets and vibrant nightlife, Boracay has long been a tourist hotspot Filipinos like to brag about, but the island was shut in 2018 due to a large-scale sewage problem, which dramatically affected tourism. With a long list of activities and watersports available, visitors will never run out of things to do on the island.

Gaining more and more popularity in recent years is the country’s surf capital of Siargao . Strategically located on the east coast, Siargao receives strong winds and currents that flow in steadily from the Pacific Ocean. To the delight of surfers, this gives the island solid swells they can enjoy, including the famous Cloud 9 .

Mount Mayon

One natural wonder that locals are truly proud of, Mount Mayon sits in the Filipino province of Albay. Mayon is an active volcano (the most active in the country) that is famous for its seemingly perfect symmetry. Standing at nearly 2,500m (8,200ft), its flawless conical shape captivates anyone who sets eyes on it. And while viewing it from afar is a sensational sight, it is best experienced up close through a multi-day hike .

Hinatuan Enchanted River

This deep spring river in the province of Surigao del Sur takes its name from the mystical qualities locals believe surround the body of water. With its enchanting shades of deep blues and greens, the river is believed by locals to be guarded by fairies and other spirits known as engkanto . Contributing to its mystical nature is the unexplained source of its clear saltwater.

Batanes offers an escape like nowhere else in the country. Perched at the northernmost tip of the Philippines, Batanes is surrounded by picturesque landscapes of rolling hills, big sky and azure seas. A tranquil, slowed-down vibe permeates life here, with locals known for their pleasant and amiable nature. They are also proud of their province’s virtually non-existent crime rate. Explore more of Asia on our 10-day trip to Northern Thailand or our 12-day adventure around Japan .

KEEN TO EXPLORE THE WORLD?

Connect with like-minded people on our premium trips curated by local insiders and with care for the world

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

Places to Stay

The most budget-friendly hotels in tagaytay.

The Best Pet-Friendly Hotels in Tagaytay, the Philippines

Where to Stay in Tagaytay, the Philippines, for a Local Experience

Hip Holiday Apartments in the Philippines You'll Want to Call Home

The Best Hotels to Book in the Philippines for Every Traveller

The Best Hotels to Book In Tagaytay for Every Traveller

See & Do

Exhilarating ways to experience the great outdoors in the philippines.

What Are the Best Resorts to Book in the Philippines?

The Best Resorts in Palawan, the Philippines

Bed & Breakfasts in the Philippines

The Best Hotels to Book in Pasay, the Philippines

The Best Hotels to Book in Palawan, the Philippines

Winter sale offers on our trips, incredible savings.

• Post ID: 1538642
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

Top 20 Best Places to Visit in the Philippines 2023

Travel is slowly coming back and one of the best places to visit in the world is the Philippines. Since the country is still recovering, there are still a few tourists coming in and the country is ready for them. You’ll still be able to visit one of the best islands in the world without the influx of tourists from different countries. Although COVID restrictions are still in place, the country has finally opened its doors to travel and tourism.

Table of Contents

Related Read: How to Travel from El Nido to Coron

With extra precautions, we can finally say that 2023 is the year to resume our postponed travel plans. In fact, if you are looking for places to visit in the Philippines, here are the best places to visit in 2023.

Related Read : How to Plan your Trip to the Philippines: The Best Philippines Travel Guide

To make it easier for you to choose the places to visit, we have also divided these places to the 3 major groups of islands in the country so you can find a specific place to visit in the Philippines easily.

Have you got any questions about traveling to the Philippines? Join our  Philippines Travel Planning FB Page  to get your answers.

Don’t know how to start planning your Philippines trip? You can  start here .

Located in the northernmost province in the Philippines, Batanes is composed of 10 small islands. However, only 3 of its biggest islands, Batan, Itbayat, and Sabtang, are inhabited. Its lush green hills will surely give us “Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit” vibes. Others would also say it reminds them of New Zealand. Who would have thought that the smallest province in the country possesses a lot of beautiful tourist attractions like the Basco Lighthouse, Morong Beach, Vayang Rolling Hills, Valugan Border Beach, and so much more? And since it is the topmost province in the Philippines (facing Taiwan), Batanes has a cool and windy climate. In fact, it is hailed as the “Home of the Wind” because of this. 

Related Read: Why Visit the Philippines? 10 Reasons Why You Must!

Getting to:

Batanes is a very remote place and before it became a Philippines must-see destination, it was once inaccessible from Manila. However, with its growing popularity, there are now flights to Basco , it’s capital town. 

Top Attraction:

Basco Lighthouse

Top Place to Stay:

Nathaniel’s Lodge

Coron, Palawan

Coron remains to be one of the top Philippines must-see places for consecutive years already. Aside from its clear water, It is known for its beautiful rock formations and historical WWII Shipwreck diving spots. There are several diving spots in Coron and each varies in depth. While some require diving skills to explore, there are also some sites that can be seen through your snorkel equipment. Prepare a lot of swimwear since most of the activities here are water activities. However, if you want to take a break from the water, you can also explore the wildlife in Calauit Wildlife Sanctuary or watch the sunset in Mt. Tapyas. 

The overall vibe of the island attracts a lot of tourists who want to enjoy a laid back vacation. For sure, you will never regret visiting Coron for an authentic island experience.

The most popular way of getting to Coron is by flying to Busuanga Airport where top airlines in the Philippines are serving domestic flights to and from Manila, Cebu, and Puerto Princesa. Tourists can also take a ferry to the seaport of Coron most especially those who are coming from El Nido.

Kayangan Lake (The Blue Lagoon)

The Funny Lion – Check rates here

El Nido, Palawan

El Nido, aside from Coron, is also one of the best places to visit in Palawan. It has also been catching attention from the tourism industry for consecutive years now because of its picture-perfect beauty. You surely don’t want to miss this “Heaven on Earth” and its 45 islands and islets. Because of that, the top activity while in El Nido is island hopping. There are four island hopping packages you can choose from but if you’re staying longer, why not choose all? Each of these packages features different activities. In summary, Tour A takes you to the popular attractions in El Nido, Tour B takes you to different caves and sandbars, Tour C takes you to the beautiful beaches in El Nido, and if you can’t get enough of these beaches, Tour D takes you to more beaches. Aside from island hopping, there are also other activities in El Nido like diving, kayaking, and snorkeling.

You can take a flight to Puerto Princesa and take a 4-hour ride bus or van to El Nido. On the other hand, if you’re coming from Coron, you can take a ferry to get to El Nido .

Nacpan Beach

El Nido Resorts, Miniloc Island – check here

Tagaytay is the best escape from city life in Manila. With a travel time of only 1 hour to 1.5 hours, you can already enjoy the refreshingly cool climate along with the picturesque view of Taal or the exciting rides in the Sky Ranch. You can also enjoy hilltop picnics in Tagaytay Picnic Grove and maybe spend some time in this funky museum called the Puzzle Mansion.

If taking a bus, you can ride the bus bound to Nasugbu or Calatagan in Pasay Terminal or bus to Tagaytay , Mendez or Nasugbu in Coastal Mall, Paranaque. You can also take the van bound for Lemery or Calatagan from Starmall EDSA, Alabang, or Metropoint Mall. 

Taal Volcano

The Lake Hotel Tagaytay – check here

The Philippines also has its own popular windmills and it is located in Pagudpud. The Bangui Windmills which plays an important role in supplying 40% of Ilocos Norte’s electricity, also stands as one of the most popular landmarks in the city. In total there are 20 units of wind turbines and pictured together with the sunset in the West Philippine Sea makes a really great photo. Aside from these windmills, Saud Beach is also popular in Ilocos Norte. From afar, you can also see the windmills peeking.

Pagudpud is accessible by land and air. There are flights available from Manila, Cebu, and Davao to Laoag City which is just a bus ride away from Pagudpud. Check here

If traveling by land, there are direct buses from Manila and Tuguegarao to Pagudpud and a series of bus transfers from Clark. Check here

Bangui Windmills

Pannzian Beach – check here

The preserved Spanish colonial and Asian architecture in Vigan makes it to the list of best places to visit in the Philippines. Aside from being a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Vigan is also one of the New7Wonders Cities. If you are planning to visit, be sure to stop by these popular attractions in the city: Calle Crisologo, Syquia Mansion, Ilocos Sur Dancing Fountain, and Balurate Zoo. All these are best experienced during the dry season so be sure to plan your trip during the dry and summer season which is from November to May.

There are two ways to get to Vigan from Manila. One is via a coach bus which offers day trips and overnight trips (takes at most 11 hours). The second one is by flying to Laoag City then taking a coach bus to Vigan (takes 4 to 5 hours).

Calle Crisologo

Regency Hotel de Vigan – check here

Sagada and Banaue

Sagada is such a beautiful place to unwind, relax or even ponder about the beauty of nature. Indeed, whose heart would not heal after watching the breathtaking sea of clouds in Kiltepan Peak? The remote and simple lifestyle in Sagada paired with its beautiful view will surely warm your heart and make you appreciate life even more. Spelunking in Sumaguing Cave is also a must-try in Sagada. If you can’t get enough of the 2-hour experience in Sumaguing, you can continue your journey to Lumiang Burial Cave which will take another 2-3 hours of caving. There’s definitely a lot of nature activities awaiting you in Sagada. At the end of the day, don’t forget to stop by the popular Lemon Pie House and Gaia Cafe for some authentic Mountain Province treats.

From Manila, you take a direct bus to Banaue and Sagada from Cubao which will take approximately 12 hours. This bus takes the Banaue route but if you want to pass by Baguio, you can also take a Victory Liner or a Joy Bus from Manila. Then from Baguio City, you can take another bus to Sagada which takes 6 hours.

Sumaguing Cave

Coffee Heritage House and Hostel – check here

Baguio City

After your Sagada trip, you can also spend a few more days in Baguio City where you can explore the different city attractions and chill– like literally chill because of Baguio’s low temperature. Attractions like Mines View Park, Burnham Park, Philippine Military Academy, and the Baguio Botanical Garden are the typical Baguio itinerary but if you are into outdoor activities like hiking, you can also schedule a hike to Mt. Pulag. 

Baguio is only 4-6 hours away from Manila. The most popular buses to Baguio are Victory Liner and Joy Bus which have terminals in Pasay, Cubao, Caloocan, Sampaloc, and Avenida. – check here or here

Read: How to Get from PITX to Baguio

The Manor at Camp John Hay

Boracay, Aklan

Of course, if you plan a trip to the Philippines, you will always list down Boracay in your bucket list. Tourists from all over the world just can’t help coming back for more white sand and world-class resort experience in Boracay. Now that the island is back to its natural state, a lot of people are even more excited to spend a vacation here. 

The easiest way to get to Boracay is by flying to Caticlan Airport . Then from Caticlan Airport, you can ride a ferry in Caticlan Jetty Port to Boracay.

White Beach

Shangri-La Boracay – check here

Malapascua, Cebu

One of the diving centers in the Northern part of Cebu, Malapascua Island offers a handful of water activities both underwater and above water. Malapascua is just one of the attractions in the Philippines where it seems like there are more foreign tourists than locals. Most of these are international divers who are eyeing to spot a Thresher Shark and other marine life in Monad Shoal.

Aside from scuba diving, snorkeling and island hopping is also popular on the island. There are even packages which offer island hopping to its neighbor island, the Kalanggaman Island in Palompon Leyte. Don’t forget to save some energy for the happy hour in some bars and restaurants which usually starts from late afternoon until late at night.

From Cebu City, take a Ceres bus bound for Maya Port. Travel time usually takes 4 hours. Once in the port, take a boat to Malapascua Island. You can go to Ceres Bus terminal or Cebu Northern bus terminal to take the bus.

Bounty Beach

Tepanee Beach Resort

Oslob and Moalboal Cebu

Cebu City is one of the best places to see in the Philippines in 2021 because every 3rd Sunday of January, the city celebrates the Sinulog festival. People from all over the world come to take part in the grand celebration through street dancing while several establishments also hold fun activities and events during this season. On the other hand, a lot of tourists also start their Cebu itinerary in Cebu City before heading to the Northernmost or the Southernmost part of the province. 

Related Read: Cebu Travel Guide: What to See, Do, Costs and How to Get Around

You can find a lot of flights to Mactan Cebu International Airport served by the top airline companies in the Philippines such as Cebu Pacific, Air Asia, and Philippine Airlines. There are also direct international flights by Emirates, All Nippon Airways, Korean Air, EVA Air, and more. From the airport, you can ride the airport bus to SM City Cebu or take a taxi to your hotel in Cebu City.

Kawasan Falls

Bayfront Hotel Cebu – Check here

Camotes, Cebu

If you are looking for a budget friendly island getaway in Cebu, Camotes Island is the perfect choice. It offers a combination of white-sand beaches, and mysterious caves without hurting your budget. In the evening, if you happen to stay somewhere along Santiago Bay, be sure to stop by the food stations by the beach and you will be treated with some reggae music.

Aside from the beautiful beach in Santiago, be sure to try cliff jumping in Buho Rock too. You can also get a nice sunset from here. Lastly, don’t forget to bring waterproof bags when exploring the caves in Camotes. 

There are 3 options to get to Camotes Island. First is by taking an Oceanjet fastcraft from Cebu Port, Pier 1 , second is by taking the Jomalia Roro from Danao City Port , and third is by taking the Jomalia Fastcraft in Mactan Wharf.

Santiago Bay Beach

Santiago Bay Garden and Resort – check here

In 2021, plan a trip to the Philippines and make sure that you won’t be missing Bohol in your vacation. It is popular for its immaculate beaches, world-class resorts, and country-side tour where you can visit the world renowned Chocolate Hills. A typical itinerary in Bohol would be to take the countryside tour on the first day which comprises the Blood Compact Shrine, Loboc River Cruise, Chocolate Hills, Tigbao Hanging Bridge, Bilar Man-made forest, and Bohol Tarsier. If you’re spending a few days more, you can visit Alona Beach and Doljo Beach in Panglao or stay in Anda Beach and maybe explore the Cabagnow Cave.

The best thing about visiting Bohol is that you can find a lot of tour packages or you can also rent a car and explore the island at your own pace.

You can fly directly to Bohol from Manila or other travel hubs in the Philippines. You can also take a ferry if you’re coming from Cebu, Siquijor, or Dumaguete. Getting from Cebu to Bohol is the best and easiest way to get to the island. Check here

Chocolate Hills

Eskaya Beach Resort – check here

Siquijor, also called the “Mystic Island”, is the third smallest province in the Philippines and because of its size, you can explore everything you have to see in the island in just a day. This will be a great side trip if you plan a trip to the Philippines. If you are visiting with a  small group, you can take the Tricycle tour to get around the island. For a bigger group, the multicab tour or the van tour is perfect for approximately 15 people. Solo travelers will also love it here as you can easily find motorcycle rentals. There are two types of tours in Siquijor– the first one is land tour and the other one is mountain tour. The land tour takes you to various attractions in Siquijor like the historical churches and beautiful beaches in the island. The Enchanted Balete tree is also a must-see. The mountain tour on the other hand lets you explore Mt. Bandilaan and Cantabon Cave. 

Since the coronavirus outbreak, Siquijor is one of the few provinces in the Philippines that does not have a high number of positive cases. 

The closest jump-off point to Siquijor is Dumaguete City and Sibulan which are just a boat ride away. So if you want to go to Siquijor, you can fly to Sibulan and board a ferry to Siquijor or you can take a ferry from Dumaguete City to Siquijor.  – You can also search here.

Top Attraction

Cambugahay Falls

Top Place to Stay

Infinity Heights Resort

Dumaguete City

Dumaguete City is known for it’s laid-back vibe. You can often find locals and tourists peacefully dining or enjoying a drink along Rizal Boulevard– where you can find a lot of food choices, by the way. To be honest, there’s not much to see in Dumaguete, the city itself, aside from Rizal Boulevard, Silliman University, and Campanario de Dumaguete. But if you are looking for good food, you can try the Sans Rival Bistro and of course,  Bacolod’s pride, the chicken inasal. Dumaguete City is a good starting point if you’re going to Manjuyod Sandbar and the Twin Lakes of Danao and Balinsasayao.

Despite being limited in tourist attractions, Dumaguete City still captures the heart of many tourists most especially millennials who want to take a break from the city life but don’t want to fully disconnect from what they’re used to– it’s more like a middle ground between the urban and rural living.

You can fly to Sibulan and take a bus to Dumaguete. There are also ferries from Tagbilaran, Santander, Dipolog, Siquijor, and Dapitan going to Dumaguete.  – Check the ferries here.

Twin Lakes of Balinsasayao and Danao

Hotel Essencia

Iloilo city is filled with rich and well-preserved heritage that you can see from the city’s festivals, cuisine, and top tourist attractions. This makes Iloilo one of the Philippines must-see destinations in Visayas. Although Iloilo can be enjoyed all throughout the year, it is best to come on dry season where you can spend a lot of time in Isla de Gigantes.

You might also want to take advantage of the festivity in January, the Dinagyang Festival, where you get to experience Iloilo in a more lively mood. If you want to dive deeper into tIloilo’s heritage, you can also visit churches and cathedrals like Miagao Church, Molo Church, Jaro Cathedral, and Guimbal Church. If you are looking for local foods, you can try La Paz Batchoy, a clear noodle soup with pork cracklings, chicken, beef, and round noodles. It is also Iloilo’s signature dish. You can also enjoy a platter of affordable seafoods in Isla de Gigantes. 

Iloilo has an international airport which hosts flights from various cities in the Philippines and abroad. Aside from that, Iloilo also has four seaports where ferries from Manila and other places in the country. – Check flights here.

Isla de Gigantes

Seda Atria – Check here

Bantayan Island

One of the most tempting islands to visit in the Visayas region is the Bantayan Island. Upon docking in Santa Fe, you will already want to take a dip in the water because of the crystal clear and turquoise sea that will welcome you upon disembarking the boat. Indeed, there’s no other way to welcome a tourist to this lovely paradise than giving you a glimpse of what the island has– and that is the beautiful beaches and all sorts of water activities.

All year round, Bantayan Island is swarmed by domestic and international tourists that is why you can find various restaurants and bars with different specialties anywhere you go. Island hopping is the main activity in the island but if you want to experience the island even more, you can also drive from Santa Fe to Madridejos and vice versa. The drive won’t even take half a day as the island is just small. 

The most popular route is by taking a bus from Cebu City to Hagnaya Port. Tourists from Palompon can also take a ferry to Bogo City and then take a bus to  Hagnaya Port. From Hagnaya Port, you can catch a public ferry to Santa Fe as early as 7AM. 

Virgin Island

Kota Beach Resort

Another island to visit in 2023 is Siargao Island.

Proudly located in Mindanao, Siargao has been very popular to surfers around the world because of its large waves that are ideal for this watersport. Beginners and even those with no experience also want to try this challenging activity as the highlight of their Siargao trip. But aside from that, there are a lot of activities you can do in Siargao that even some tourists prefer to stay for a month or two to get the most of the island life. The locals on the island are also very fun to be with. On some nights, there are parties held in the most popular hostels and resorts in Siargao so be sure to check with the locals.

Related Read: Siargao Travel Guide: Things to See, Do, Accommodation and Itinerary

You can also just drive at night to check where the crowd is. You will most likely know it because there are usually tricycles and motorcycles for hire waiting outside the venue. You can also find a variety of foods in Siargao. While you get the Instagrammable and expensive ones in resorts, there are also budget-friendly food choices along the road or sometimes outside these resorts. There is also a public market if you want to cook your own fresh seafood.

You can fly through Cebu Pacific to Sayak Airport.  And because this is just a small airport, only small planes can fly in and out of Siargao. Aside from flying, you can also take an overnight passenger boat from Cebu to Surigao City and take another ferry from Surigao to Siargao.

Cloud 9 Beach

Siargao Bleu Resort and Spa

This pearl in South Cotabato was hailed as a cultural landscape by UNESCO. Aside from that, Lake Sebu is also celebrated as the Land of the Dream Weavers because of its popular T’nalak tapestry which plays an important role in the social, cultural, and personal perspective of the T’bolis. There are a lot of places to visit in Lake Sebu and you can start your trip by exploring these three important lakes: Lake Sebu, Lake Lahit, and Lake Seloton. Lake

Sebu is also known for the Seven Waterfalls where you can also ride a zipline that passes by these waterfalls. If you have fear of heights, you can hike to Hikong Bente instead. You surely don’t want to miss a trip to T’Boli museum too where you can see a collection of gongs, T’nalak, antiques, and other artifacts of T’boli culture. In total, you will need at least 2 days to get the most of your Lake Sebu trip.

If you are coming from Manila, Cebu or Iloilo, you can take a flight to General Santos . Then ride a taxi or a multicab to Bulaong Terminal where you can catch a van to Lake Sebu. If you are coming from Davao, you can take a bus from Davao Ecoland Terminal to Marbel in South Cotabato. Then from Marbel, you can take a van to Lake Sebu.

Seven Waterfalls

Punta Isla Lake Resort

Camiguin Island

Camiguin is the smallest island in Mindanao and the second smallest province in the country. However, this small island earned its fierce title as the Island Born of Fire because of the seven volcanoes that have been changing Camiguin’s landscape from time to time. Camiguin is also a combination of heritage sites and beaches. You can find ancestral homes, old churches, and other historical sites all over the island. Hidden in various corners of the island, you can also find waterfalls, natural springs, beaches and diving spots. The most popular of them is the Sunken Cemetery. 

Cebu Pacific has small planes flying directly to Camiguin. If you are looking for more flights, you can also fly to Cagayan de Oro or Butuan. From Cagayan airport, you can take the direct shuttle van to Camiguin or you can take the bus/van in Agora Terminal then take a ferry to Camiguin.  – Check flights here.

Top Attractions

Sunken Cemetery

Paras Beach Resort – Check here

We know it’s difficult to travel at this time, but planning you trip to the Philippines is always a good idea. You can dream of the places that you want to visit and know exactly where you will go.

Did we miss anything else? Let us know in the comments!

Angie is a travel consultant and blogger who has started by writing her travel memoirs on her blog and then got published  on international travel sites. She’s now focused on creating in-depth travel itinerary and articles about planning trips to the Philippines.

You Might Also Like

How to Visit the Philippines: Visa and Entry Requirements (2023)

How to Get From Danao, Cebu to Camotes (2023)

Ultimate Guide to Mactan-Cebu International Airport

• Start Planning
• TRAVEL GUIDES
• Destinations

25+ Best Places to Visit in August and September in the USA (2024)

A s an avid traveler, I can’t help but get excited about exploring new destinations. Here’s the scoop on the best places to visit in August and Septemeber in the USA.

These months offer a fantastic opportunity to experience the diverse landscapes and vibrant cultures of the United States.

From the sun-soaked beaches to the stunning national parks of the Southwest, there’s so many incredible places to visit during this time of year.

This list of the best places to visit during August and September promises unforgettable adventures and memories that will last a lifetime!

Glacier National Park

Exploring the beauty of Glacier National Park in August and September offers a truly unforgettable experience.

During these summer months, you can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities in the park’s natural beauty.

Plus the warm temperatures make it the prime time for hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.

With fewer crowds around during these months, you’ll have the chance to truly soak in the peaceful atmosphere of this incredible park.

You can even enjoy a drive through its variety of landscapes and you might even see some wildlife as you go.

As summer turns into fall, the changing colors of the leaves add an extra layer of beauty to the National Park. Creating a truly unforgettable experience.

San Francisco

Visiting San Francisco offers a blend of culture, innovation, and natural beauty in the months of August and September.

You can enjoy sunny days and mild temperatures that are perfect for exploring iconic sites like the Golden Gate Bridge and Golden Gate Park.

The city also offers a variety of outdoor adventures from hiking in the park to biking around the city.

Plus you can learn more about the city’s rich history by visiting historical sites or joining in on the diverse cultural events and live music.

Whether you’re seeking exploration or nature retreats, San Francisco has something for everyone during these months.

Don’t miss the chance to experience the charm of this park city at its finest in late September!

Yellowstone National Park

In the heart of the Rocky Mountains you can find Yellowstone National Park with its beautiful nature and wildlife.

As one of the most renowned national parks, Yellowstone offers a perfect destination as one of the top places to visit in the USA.

Especially during the high season of August and September.

During its peak season, which aligns with the warm weather , I find the park perfect for exploring its trails, spotting wildlife, or enjoying activities like horseback riding.

It even offers hot springs, each with its own unique colors and formations.

With the perfect daytime temperatures for outdoor adventures, Yellowstone offers a variety of fun activities. Promising an unforgettable late summer escape with the beauty of nature.

On the sunny shores of Southern California, San Diego sits with its vibrant culture and endless attractions.

San Diego has beautiful beaches perfect for soaking up the sun or even trying out various water sports .

One of the must-visit places is Balboa Park. It offers lush gardens, museums, and live performances.

Plus with the warm days in San Diego it makes it an ideal destination for outdoor adventures and exploring the charming small towns nearby.

Whether you’re looking to relax on sandy beaches or simply have a great time under the sun, San Diego is the perfect place to visit in late summer!

As you visit Santa Fe during the late summer months of August and September, you’ll be greeted by a city with rich cultural heritage and art.

There’s something exciting about exploring its unique blend of history and creativity, set against the high desert of New Mexico.

And as you walk through the streets of Santa Fe, you’ll be charmed by the architecture that gives the city its unique character.

You won’t want to miss a visit to the Santa Fe Opera House or the chance to join in on exciting outdoor activities like hiking and biking.

Lake Michigan

Discover the beauty and endless recreational opportunities of Lake Michigan during the late summer months of August and September.

The cooler temperatures make it ideal for outdoor activities along the shores of this magnificent lake.

Here are some highlights to enjoy during your visit:

• Breathtaking Scenery : Take in the stunning views of Lake Michigan with its crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches .
• Water Sports : Engage in water activities like swimming, kayaking, or paddleboarding in the lake waters.
• Lakeside Dining : Enjoy delicious local cuisine at waterfront restaurants while enjoying the sunset views.

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lake Michigan before the vibrant fall colors take over, turning it into an ideal late summer getaway spot.

You can even visit during Labor Day weekend to enjoy fun activities outside.

Visiting Lake Tahoe offers an unforgettable experience surrounded by stunning landscapes and a variety of activities.

The crystal-clear waters of the lake are perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding. While the nearby trails provide opportunities for peaceful nature walks.

Plus, the charming towns around the lake offer delightful dining options, shopping, and cultural attractions to enhance your visit.

September is the best time to visit Lake Tahoe when the summer crowds have disappeared and the fall leaves begin to fall with vibrant colors.

North Carolina

North Carolina beckons has a rich history with diverse landscapes and vibrant culture.

When exploring North Carolina in August and September, make sure to visit these best spots:

• Blue Ridge Mountains : Explore the stunning beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, perfect for hiking and enjoying panoramic views .
• Outer Banks : Relax on the beautiful beaches of the Outer Banks, known for their pristine shores and charming coastal towns.
• State Parks : Discover the natural beauty of North Carolina by visiting its numerous state parks, offering great opportunities for outdoor activities.

During this time, North Carolina’s festival season is also in full swing. Making it an ideal time to experience the state’s vibrant culture.

It’s a great place to enjoy the best things the state has to offer!

Rhode Island

Rhode Island apart of the New England region is the smallest state in the US, its filled with a rich history and beautiful coastal towns waiting for you to enjoy!

During the months of August and September, the weather in Rhode Island is ideal, with little rain and average temperatures making it the perfect time to visit.

Whether you’re exploring historic sites, relaxing on the sandy shores, or enjoying delicious seafood, this big Island offers something for everyone!

It’s no wonder that this time of year is considered the best time to experience this hidden gem in the northeastern parts of the country.

Lake Placid

Tucked away in the Adirondack Mountains of New York, Lake Placid offers a serene beauty and an array of outdoor activities for you to enjoy.

This village is famous for hosting the Winter Olympics not just once but twice, making it a hub for winter sports enthusiasts.

And as summer unfolds, Mirror Lake offers a great atmosphere for kayaking or paddleboarding.

Plus the hiking trails around Whiteface Mountain present stunning views and adventures for everyone.

In the heart of the Wasatch Mountains in Utah, lies Park City, a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

Park City is best known for its world-class ski resorts, offering thrilling slopes in the winter and mountain biking or hiking during the summer months.

The town isn’t only for outdoor activities but also offers charming art galleries, historical sites, and summer concerts.

Whether you’re exploring the beauty of the mountains or enjoying the cultural aspects of the town, Park City offers a perfect blend of excitement and relaxation for your getaway.

Mackinac Island

If you’re looking for one of the best vacation spots, Mackinac Island is the perfect destination.

Towards the end of the month for August, you can enjoy lower prices and fewer people, making it an amazing place to unwind.

Visitors can enjoy fudge from one of the island’s famous shops, rent bikes to explore the scenic trails, or simply relax on the beaches.

This island offers a delightful escape where you can enjoy yourself!

This popular destination in Massachusetts is a great starting point for trips to nearby islands like Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket.

As summer transitions into early fall, the weather remains pleasant, perfect for exploring the Cape’s beaches, bike trails, and even lighthouses.

From enjoying the fresh seafood to embarking on boat tours, there’s no shortage of adventures to be had.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or exciting adventures, Cape Cod has something for everyone.

South Carolina

Explore the southern charm and rich history of South Carolina, a state known for its beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and vibrant culture.

When visiting in August or September, some of the best places to check out include:

• Myrtle Beach : Enjoy the sun, sand, and entertainment at one of the top beach destinations in the United States .
• Charleston : Discover the cobblestone streets, colorful houses , and delicious Southern cuisine in this historic city.
• Hot Air Balloon Ride : Experience South Carolina from a different perspective by taking a hot air balloon ride over the picturesque landscapes.

These destinations offer a perfect blend of relaxation, history, and adventure during this time of year.

Pike Place Market

Located in the heart of Seattle, Pike Place Market is an iconic destination for locals and tourists.

The market offers a vibrant atmosphere where you can explore fresh produce, unique crafts, and delicious local treats.

And you can’t forget the entertaining fishmongers tossing fish or the famous original Starbucks coffee shop.

Pike Place Market isn’t just a place to shop; it’s an experience that immerses you in the culture of the Pacific Northwest.

Whether you’re looking for fresh flowers , handmade souvenirs, or a quick snack, Pike Place Market is a must-visit spot during your time in Seattle.

Grand Canyon National Park

Visiting Grand Canyon National Park in August or September promises an unforgettable adventure and experience.

As the temperatures begin to cool slightly, it’s the perfect time to enjoy hikes along the park’s numerous trails.

Here are three must-do popular activities during your visit:

• Hike along the rim trails to witness stunning panoramic views of the canyon.
• Descend into the canyon on a guided mule ride for a unique perspective of its vastness.
• Watch the sunrise or sunset over the canyon, painting the sky with a myriad of colors and casting a magical glow over the ancient rock formations.

Zion National Park

Visiting Zion National Park in August and September offers a remarkable opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes of Utah’s most iconic national park.

As the temperatures begin to gradually cool off from the peak of summer , Zion’s red rock formations and sandstone cliffs provide a breathtaking backdrop for outdoor adventures.

And don’t miss the chance to witness the stunning sunrise casting a golden glow over the canyon walls or the vibrant fall foliage painting the landscape in rich hues.

Zion National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Pacific Northwest

Getting to visit the Pacific Northwest in August and September offers the perfect opportunity to experience the region’s stunning landscapes and vibrant culture.

From the forests of Oregon to the coastlines of Washington, this time of year showcases the area’s natural beauty at its finest.

In August, the weather is generally warm and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking , camping, and exploring.

September brings cooler temperatures and the beginning of fall foliage, adding an extra layer of beauty to the landscape.

Here are three must-visit destinations in the Pacific Northwest:

• Olympic National Park : Explore temperate rainforests, wild coastline, and glacier-capped peaks all within one park.
• Mount Rainier National Park : Encounter the iconic Mount Rainier, an active volcano surrounded by meadows of vibrant wildflowers.
• Columbia River Gorge : Witness breathtaking waterfalls, scenic drives, and numerous hiking trails along the Columbia River.

North Cascades National Park

As summer transitions into early fall, the North Cascades National offers weather ideal for outdoor adventures.

Hike through over 300 glaciers and countless waterfalls, or set sail on a scenic drive along winding mountain roads offering breathtaking views.

The park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for camping, fishing, boating, and wildlife spotting.

You can even see the ecosystems that range from old-growth forests to alpine meadows.

Don’t miss the chance to witness the stunning fall foliage in vibrant hues of red , orange, and yellow during September.

Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a breathtaking stretch of road winding through the Appalachian Mountains.

As you drive along this iconic route, you’ll encounter stunning views, charming mountain towns, and even outdoor activities.

• Enjoy panoramic views of rolling mountains and lush forests .
• Stop by overlooks for perfect photo opportunities.
• Hike trails that lead to hidden waterfalls and peaceful meadows.

The Blue Ridge Parkway offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it an ideal destination for a road trip or a nature-filled adventure .

Don’t miss the chance to explore this picturesque drive during your late summer or early fall travels .

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of America’s most iconic natural landscapes.

As summer transitions to early fall, the park comes alive with vibrant colors, cooler temperatures, and a sense of tranquility.

As you hike through the ancient mountains, you’ll encounter over 1,500 species of flowering plants , including vibrant wildflowers like trilliums and violets.

Keep an eye out for the park’s famous black bears , white-tailed deer, and salamanders.

Whether you’re into trekking, wildlife spotting, or simply enjoying nature’s beauty, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park has something for everyone.

Las Vegas has dazzling lights and vibrant entertainment, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a thrilling escape.

• Experience the iconic Las Vegas Strip with its world-renowned casinos, hotels, and extravagant shows.
• Indulge in gourmet dining at celebrity chef restaurants or savor a buffet feast offering a wide array of cuisines.
• Explore beyond the strip and discover the natural beauty of Red Rock Canyon, just a short drive away, offering hiking trails and stunning desert landscapes.

It truly has something for everyone, whether you’re into gambling, live entertainment, fine dining, or outdoor adventures.

It’s a city that’s filled with energy and excitement, promising an unforgettable experience with plenty of fun things to do.

Priest Lake

Priest Lake offers a serene escape surrounded by pine trees and crystal-clear waters.

Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, this hidden gem has something for everyone.

You can explore the 23-mile-long lake by kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply taking a swim.

And if you’re into fishing, Priest Lake is a haven for anglers with its abundance of trout and kokanee salmon.

Make the most of your late summer days at Priest Lake, where nature’s beauty awaits.

Myrtle Beach

With its sun-kissed shores and vibrant boardwalk, Myrtle Beach is a place for travelers to escape and relax .

The good reason to visit this city is that it offers an array of activities and attractions for you to enjoy:

• Sandy Beaches: Miles of pristine sandy beaches invite you to relax under the warm sun or take a leisurely stroll along the shore.
• Boardwalk: Explore the bustling boardwalk lined with shops, restaurants, and live entertainment, creating a vibrant atmosphere day and night .
• Golf Courses: Myrtle Beach is renowned for its world-class golf courses, attracting golf enthusiasts to tee off against stunning coastal backdrops.

Experience the charm and excitement of Myrtle Beach for an unforgettable vacation by the sea.

Denali National Park

Getting to visit Denali National Park in August or September offers a unique opportunity to experience the breathtaking beauty of Alaska’s wilderness as summer transitions into fall.

August is an ideal time for wildlife viewing, with opportunities to spot grizzly bears, moose, caribou, and Dall sheep roaming freely throughout the park.

While September brings cooler temperatures and the possibility of witnessing the northern lights dancing across the night sky .

Whether you’re exploring the park’s vast wilderness or on a drive along the Denali Park Road promises unforgettable experiences and awe-inspiring natural beauty.

Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City in August and September offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and natural beauty.

As summer transitions into early fall, the city’s pleasant weather makes it an ideal time to explore its numerous attractions.

If you enjoy the outdoors you can visit the nearby Wasatch Mountains for a hike or enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the Jordan River Parkway Trail.

Whether you’re taking in the breathtaking views from Ensign Peak or strolling through the charming streets of downtown Salt Lake City, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy!

Lake Powell

Seeing Lake Powell in August and September offers an exciting retreat for outdoor enthusiasts and water lovers.

Water sports such as kayaking , paddleboarding, and jet skiing provide endless opportunities for adventure and excitement.

Plus anglers can try their luck at fishing for bass, catfish, and trout in the abundant waters of Lake Powell.

As the sun sets over the horizon, visitors can unwind and enjoy a peaceful evening under the starlit sky, creating unforgettable memories of Lake Powell.

Visiting Place in The USA

August and September are great months to explore some of the best destinations in the USA.

Whether you’re into outdoor adventures like hiking in Glacier National Park or enjoying the vibrant city life in San Francisco, there’s something for everyone.

Don’t miss out on the stunning natural beauty of Yellowstone National Park or the excitement of Las Vegas.

With so many amazing places to choose from, you’re sure to have a memorable end-of-summer getaway.

Get the scoop on more like this:

• 25 Best Warm Beaches in Florida to Visit
• 35 Best Places to Visit in July in the USA
• 20+ Best Places to Visit in June for Couples
• 30+ Best Warm Places to Visit in May in USA

The post 25+ Best Places to Visit in August and September in the USA (2024) appeared first on Sarah Scoop .