Island hopping in the Philippines is a dream come true for many travelers. With over 7,000 islands, choosing the perfect route can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks down some popular island-hopping destinations and helps you decide which adventure suits your style and budget.
Choosing Your Island-Hopping Adventure
Think about what you want from your trip. Are you looking for pristine beaches and relaxation? Do you want to explore vibrant coral reefs? Or maybe you’re after thrilling water sports and lively nightlife? The Philippines offers something for everyone, but knowing your priorities will help you narrow down your options. Consider the time of year you’re traveling, as weather conditions can significantly impact your experience. The dry season (roughly November to May) is generally the best time for island hopping, but it’s also the peak season, meaning higher prices and more crowds.
El Nido, Palawan: The Iconic Choice
El Nido, Palawan, is arguably the most famous island-hopping destination in the Philippines. It’s known for its towering limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, and crystal-clear turquoise waters. El Nido offers four main tours, cleverly named Tour A, Tour B, Tour C, and Tour D. Each tour explores different areas and offers unique experiences.
Tour A: Lagoons and Beaches
Tour A is the most popular and typically includes visits to the Secret Lagoon, Big Lagoon, Shimizu Island, Payong-Payong Beach, and the 7 Commando Beach. It’s perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and taking those postcard-perfect photos. The Big Lagoon, for instance, is a stunning expanse of turquoise water surrounded by dramatic cliffs, perfect for kayaking.
Tour B: Caves and Coves
Tour B takes you to less crowded spots, focusing on caves and secluded coves. Highlights include Snake Island (a sandbar shaped like a snake), Pinagbuyutan Island, Entalula Beach, Cudugnon Cave (where you can often spot bats), and the Cathedral Cave. This tour is great if you want a more relaxed experience and enjoy exploring unique geological formations.
Tour C: Secret Beaches and Snorkeling
Tour C is considered the best for snorkeling and discovering hidden beaches. You’ll visit Helicopter Island (named for its shape), Secret Beach (accessible only by swimming through a small opening in the rocks), Hidden Beach, Matinloc Shrine, and Star Beach. The snorkeling opportunities on this tour are exceptional, with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.
Tour D: Island Beaches and Relaxation
Tour D is all about relaxing on beautiful beaches and enjoying the sunshine. It usually includes visits to Cadlao Lagoon, Pasandigan Beach, Paradise Beach, and Natnat Beach. Cadlao Lagoon is the largest lagoon in El Nido and offers a tranquil escape with opportunities for swimming and kayaking.
Getting to El Nido:
You can fly directly to El Nido Airport (ENI) from Manila or other major Philippine cities. However, flights to El Nido are often more expensive. A more budget-friendly option is to fly to Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS) and then take a five to six-hour van or bus ride to El Nido.
Coron, Palawan: Shipwrecks and Stunning Lakes
Coron, also in Palawan, offers a different kind of island-hopping experience. While it boasts beautiful beaches and islands, it’s best known for its incredible World War II shipwrecks, making it a world-class diving destination. Even if you’re not a diver, you can enjoy snorkeling and swimming in these historical underwater sites. Coron also features stunning lakes surrounded by towering limestone cliffs.
Kayangan Lake: A Picture-Perfect Paradise
Kayangan Lake is arguably the most famous attraction in Coron. Often called the “cleanest lake in Asia,” its crystal-clear turquoise waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Don’t miss the iconic viewpoint overlooking the lake and the surrounding landscape. You’ll need to climb a few steps to reach the viewpoint, but the view is well worth the effort.
Barracuda Lake: A Unique Thermal Experience
Barracuda Lake is another popular spot in Coron, known for its unique thermoclines. The water temperature changes dramatically as you descend, creating a fascinating experience for swimmers and divers. The lake is also surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, making it a visually stunning location.
Twin Lagoons: Swim Through a Hidden Passage
Twin Lagoons are two lagoons connected by a small underwater passage. During low tide, you can swim through the passage to reach the second lagoon. If the tide is high, you can climb over a ladder to get there. Both lagoons offer beautiful scenery and excellent swimming opportunities.
Island Hopping Tours in Coron:
Similar to El Nido, Coron offers various island-hopping tours that visit different combinations of islands, beaches, and lakes. Popular destinations include Malcapuya Island (known for its powdery white sand), Banana Island, Bulog Dos Island, and Pass Island.
Getting to Coron:
You can fly directly to Francisco B. Reyes Airport (USU) in Coron from Manila and other major cities. Several airlines offer flights to Coron, making it relatively easy to access.
Bohol: Chocolate Hills and Tarsiers
Bohol offers a different flavor of island hopping, combining stunning beaches with unique inland attractions. While the beaches around Panglao Island are beautiful, Bohol is also famous for the Chocolate Hills (a geological formation of over 1,200 hills that turn brown during the dry season) and the Philippine tarsier (one of the smallest primates in the world).
Panglao Island: Alona Beach and Beyond
Panglao Island is connected to Bohol Island by two bridges and is the main hub for tourists. Alona Beach is the most popular beach on Panglao, offering a wide range of restaurants, bars, and accommodations. From Alona Beach, you can easily book island-hopping tours to nearby islands and snorkeling spots.
Balicasag Island: A Marine Sanctuary
Balicasag Island is a small island off the coast of Panglao, renowned for its rich marine life. It’s a popular destination for snorkeling and diving, with opportunities to see sea turtles, colorful fish, and vibrant coral reefs. Many tours include lunch on the island, offering a chance to enjoy fresh seafood.
Virgin Island: A Stunning Sandbar
Virgin Island (also known as Pontod Island) is a stunning sandbar that emerges during low tide. It’s a popular spot for taking photos and enjoying the shallow, clear water. Local vendors sell fresh seafood and souvenirs on the sandbar.
Island-Hopping Tours in Bohol:
Island-hopping tours from Panglao typically include visits to Balicasag Island and Virgin Island. Some tours also include dolphin watching in the early morning.
Getting to Bohol:
You can fly directly to Bohol-Panglao International Airport (TAG) from Manila and other major cities. The airport is located on Panglao Island, making it easy to access Alona Beach and other tourist areas.
Siargao: Surfing Capital and Island Adventures
Siargao is known as the “Surfing Capital of the Philippines” but it offers much more than just waves. With its laid-back atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and stunning lagoons, Siargao is a great destination for both surfers and non-surfers alike.
Cloud 9: World-Class Waves
Cloud 9 is the most famous surf break in Siargao, known for its thick, barreling waves. Even if you’re not a surfer, you can watch experienced surfers tackle these challenging waves from the iconic viewing platform.
Guyam Island: A Tiny Tropical Paradise
Guyam Island is a small, circular island just a short boat ride from General Luna (the main tourist town in Siargao). It’s a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the peace and quiet. The island has a small bar and restaurant, offering refreshments and snacks.
Daku Island: Island Life and Local Culture
Daku Island is the largest of the three islands commonly visited on island-hopping tours from Siargao. It’s inhabited by locals and offers a glimpse into island life. Many tours include lunch on Daku Island, allowing you to sample local cuisine.
Naked Island: A Bare Sandbar
Naked Island is a bare sandbar that disappears during high tide. It’s a popular spot for taking photos and enjoying the simplicity of nature. There are no trees or structures on the island, so be sure to bring sunscreen and a hat.
Sugba Lagoon: Cliff Jumping and Paddleboarding
Sugba Lagoon is located on the island of Caob, a short boat ride from General Luna. It’s a stunning lagoon surrounded by mangrove forests and limestone cliffs. You can enjoy swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and cliff jumping in the lagoon.
Island-Hopping Tours in Siargao:
Island-hopping tours from Siargao typically include visits to Guyam Island, Daku Island, and Naked Island. A separate tour is usually required to visit Sugba Lagoon.
Getting to Siargao:
You can fly directly to Sayak Airport (IAO) in Siargao from Manila and other major cities. The airport is located about 45 minutes from General Luna.
Comparing the Destinations
Each of these destinations offers a unique island-hopping experience. Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide which one is right for you:
El Nido: Best for dramatic scenery, hidden lagoons, and postcard-perfect beaches. Good for swimming and kayaking. Can be crowded during peak season.
Coron: Best for diving shipwrecks, exploring stunning lakes, and enjoying unique underwater experiences. Less crowded than El Nido.
Bohol: Best for combining island hopping with inland attractions like the Chocolate Hills and tarsiers. Offers a good balance of beaches and cultural experiences.
Siargao: Best for surfing, exploring lagoons, and enjoying a laid-back island vibe. Also, great for cliff jumping and paddleboarding.
Planning Your Island-Hopping Trip
Once you’ve chosen your destination, it’s time to start planning the details of your trip. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
Book flights and accommodations in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak season.
Research and compare island-hopping tours to find the best options for your budget and interests.
Pack light, but don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, and a reusable water bottle.
Learn a few basic Tagalog phrases to help you communicate with locals.
Be respectful of the local culture and environment.
Bring cash, as many smaller establishments don’t accept credit cards.
Check the weather forecast before you go and pack accordingly.
Be prepared for potential delays or cancellations, especially during the rainy season.
Most importantly, relax and enjoy the experience!
Budget Considerations
Island hopping in the Philippines can be done on a variety of budgets. Here’s a general idea of what you can expect to spend:
Flights: Prices vary depending on the destination, airline, and time of year. Booking in advance can often save you money.
Accommodations: You can find everything from budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts in the Philippines. Prices range from $10 to $200+ per night.
Island-hopping tours: Tour prices typically range from $20 to $50 per person, depending on the length of the tour and the number of destinations visited.
Food and drinks: You can eat cheaply at local eateries or spend more at tourist-oriented restaurants. Expect to pay around $10 to $30 per day for food and drinks.
Transportation: Transportation costs can vary depending on how you get around. Tricycles and jeepneys are the most common forms of local transportation.
Keep in mind these figures are general estimations. A responsible budget, including buffer, will give you peace of mind.
Responsible Travel Tips
Island hopping should be an enjoyable experience, not just for you, but for the environment and local community. Here are some important points to keep in mind for responsible travel:
Reduce your plastic consumption by bringing a reusable water bottle, shopping bag, and utensils.
Dispose of your trash properly and avoid littering.
Support local businesses by buying souvenirs and eating at local restaurants.
Respect local customs and traditions by dressing modestly and being mindful of your behavior.
Avoid touching or disturbing marine life when snorkeling or diving.
Choose eco-friendly tour operators that prioritize sustainability.
Learn about the local environment and the challenges it faces.
Conserve water and energy by taking shorter showers and turning off lights when you leave your room.
Leave only footprints and take only memories.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best time to go island hopping in the Philippines?
The dry season (November to May) is generally the best time for island hopping in the Philippines, with sunny skies and calm seas. However, this is also the peak season, so expect higher prices and more crowds. The shoulder seasons (March-May and Sept-Nov) can offer a good balance of weather and fewer tourists.
Q: How do I book island-hopping tours?
You can book island-hopping tours online through various travel agencies or directly with local tour operators once you arrive at your destination. It’s often a good idea to compare prices and read reviews before booking. Many hotels and guesthouses can also arrange tours for you.
Q: What should I pack for an island-hopping trip?
Essentials for an island-hopping trip include sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, sunglasses, swimwear, light clothing, a reusable water bottle, a waterproof bag, and a camera. You may also want to bring a snorkeling mask and fins if you prefer your own.
Q: Is it safe to drink the tap water in the Philippines?
It is generally not safe to drink tap water in the Philippines. It’s best to drink bottled water or use a water filter.
Q: What currency is used in the Philippines?
The currency used in the Philippines is the Philippine Peso (PHP).
Q: Do I need a visa to visit the Philippines?
Citizens of many countries can enter the Philippines without a visa for a certain period of time (usually 30 days). Check the visa requirements for your country before you travel. You can refer to the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs website for the latest information.
Q: What is the local language in the Philippines?
The official languages of the Philippines are Filipino and English. Most Filipinos speak English, especially in tourist areas.
Q: What kind of electricity plugs are used in the Philippines?
The Philippines uses Type A and Type B electrical outlets, with a standard voltage of 220 V and a frequency of 60 Hz. You may need to bring an adapter if your devices use a different plug type.
Q: How much should I tip in the Philippines?
Tipping is not mandatory in the Philippines, but it is customary to tip for good service in restaurants, hotels, and other establishments. A tip of 10% is generally appreciated.
References
Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs
Department of Tourism – Philippines
Ready to experience the magic of the Philippines? Start planning your island-hopping adventure today! With so many incredible destinations to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect route for an unforgettable vacation. Book your flights, pack your bags, and get ready to discover the beauty of the Philippine islands. What are you waiting for? Your dream island-hopping adventure awaits!
