Underrated beaches, island destinations: Why you should explore the Philippines more 

MANILA, Philippines – You won’t run out of choices when it comes to beaches and island destinations in the Philippines. You can go on a land trip to Ilocos or La Union to surf, relax, beach bum, and swim. You can book a flight to Cebu, Palawan, Davao, Boracay, and Bohol to spend your days strolling along a pristine shore, scuba diving or island hopping. 

But, there are places that have flown under the radar and don’t get the same attention as some of the country’s most famous islands. 

Here are some spots that remain underrated but worth adding to your itinerary. 

Biliran

This province is a few hours away from Leyte and is a convenient van ride away from Tacloban City. 

Biliran is home to a number of natural attractions which you can explore during your trip. One of its most famous attractions is Sambawan Island. 

The island boasts a beautiful shoreline with powdery sand and turquoise waters that will lure you in. Make your way up to the viewpoint to get an overlooking view of the island. 

You can also visit Tinago Falls and Ulan-Ulan Falls after spending some time beach bumming, swimming, and sunbathing. If you have more time, you can also visit Maripipi Island.

CALM. Stroll along the shore of Sambawan Island in Biliran. – All photos by Joshua Berida/Rappler

Romblon

Romblon has a rural vibe that takes your thoughts away from your day job and the busyness of city living. This island province also has a number of beach destinations you can enjoy.

Famous for its export quality marble products, Romblon offers plenty of shops selling their own products to visitors or they ship them to other places. 

For a short stay, you’ll most likely spend most of your time in Tablas or Romblon, Romblon. Aglicay Resort is a beachfront property that delivers spectacular sunsets and sunrises. You can use it as a base to explore Tablas before heading over to Romblon, Romblon. The latter has a handful of white sand beaches of note such as Bonbon Beach, Tiamban Beach, and Talipasak Beach. 

If you have more time, you can go island hopping or explore Sibuyan Island.

RELAX. Watch the sunset in one of the idyllic beaches of Romblon.

Camiguin

This island in Northern Mindanao is a must-visit. It’s compact enough to explore at a leisurely pace in a few days but has enough attractions to keep you occupied. 

Many visitors mention that White Island is a highlight of their trip. This comes as no surprise because of its pristine beach and azure waters. Spend a few hours sunbathing, swimming, and admiring the views. 

You can add Katibawasan Falls and Tuasan Falls to your trip. Dip into the waterfall’s waters to cool off during a hot afternoon. 

Camiguin’s volcanic origin has led to the formation of springs such as Ardent Hot Springs. If you have days to spare, a hike up Mt. Hibok-Hibok will quench your thirst for adventure.

PRISTINE. White Island is a top destination in Camiguin.

Sorsogon

Sorsogon province has its own beaches and islands that are underrated and worth visiting. One of which is Subic Beach in Matnog. This beach’s claim to fame is its pinkish and powdery sand. Dip into its azure waters, sunbathe, and play frisbee or volleyball during your stay. 

You can also visit Tikling Island as an additional stop during your trip. If you have time to spare, drop by Paguriran Island and Lagoon. It also has its own beach and rock formations. 

UNWIND. Spend a few hours swimming and sunbathing at Subic Beach in Sorsogon.

Guimaras

Guimaras is famous for its sweet mangoes, but it is also an underrated beach destination which you can conveniently visit from Iloilo City. 

You can hop on a pump boat from Parola or Ortiz Wharf in Iloilo to Jordan Wharf in Guimaras. While on the island, you can visit Alubihod Beach, Guisi Beach, Natago Beach, Ave Maria Island, Turtle Island and others. 

LUSH. Besides the province’s sweet mangoes, the Guimaras beaches are quite lovely. – Photo by Jonathan Espiña/jontotheworld.com

Davao Oriental

If you’re looking for another beach destination while exploring Mindanao, tick off Dahican Beach in Davao Oriental.

This long stretch of cream-tinged sand is an idyllic spot to just hang out, play games (volleyball, frisbee, jogging, etc.), swim, surf, and/or skim board. You can get to Mati, Davao Oriental from Davao City by bus. 

WANDER. Have a chill day at Dahican Beach in Davao Oriental.

Dinagat Islands

Dinagat Islands in Mindanao has grown in popularity over the years, but it is still an underrated island and beach destination. 

Island hopping is the go-to activity during your visit. You’ll see similarities with Palawan because of the fine, white sand beaches you’ll visit, clear waters, and karst formations rising out of the sea. 

Some of the places you can visit include Bitaog Beach, Pagkawasan Beach, Lake Bababu, Bababu Beach, Islander’s Castle, Kisses Islet, Pangabangan Tidal Pool, Sta. Cruz Beach, and others. 

To get to Dinagat province, you’ll have to go to Surigao City port. You can book a flight to Butuan first then head straight to Surigao City. Once at the port, board a ferry to San Jose, Dinagat Islands. 

BOAT RIDE. Enjoy island hopping around Dinagat Islands.

Masbate

This island province is an off-the-beaten path destination with beaches, waterfalls, and a vibrant underwater ecosystem waiting for tourists.

Ticao Island is a must-visit place if ever you find yourself going to Masbate. You can walk along the beach of Halea Island Nature Park, go for a swim, and go snorkeling to spot baby sharks. 

Catandayagan Waterfalls is a notable addition to your island hopping itinerary because it falls directly into the open sea. You can swim near the waterfalls but it’s cold and deep. 

Borobangkaso Islet has a beautiful rock formation you can use as a backdrop for photos. You’ll have to rent a boat to explore the area. You can also visit the attractions of Burias Island, Masbate for another trip to the province.

CHILL. Cool down at the Catandayagan Waterfalls in Masbate.

Marinduque

The heart-shaped island of Marinduque is famous for its Holy Week Moriones Festival. Devotees make their way to the province to join the festivities. 

However, Marinduque is also an underrated destination you can include in your Philippine travel itinerary. Visit Poctoy White Beach for a relaxing and idyllic getaway far from the hustle and bustle of the city. 

This beach located in Torrijos will draw you in with its crystal-clear waters, white sand shoreline, and friendly locals. You can spend the night here or just stay for a few hours to explore the province’s other attractions such as Boac Cathedral, Maniwaya Island, Bagumbungan Cave, Mt. Malindig, Mongpong Island, and Tres Reyes Islands. 

You can go to Marinduque over the weekend via Dalahican Port in Quezon province.

EXPLORE. Marinduque beaches, like the Poctoy White Beach, also deserve your attention.

These underrated island and beach destinations are noteworthy additions to your itinerary while traveling around the Philippines or if you’re ambitious enough to want to visit all the provinces in the country. 

For sure, there are other places worth discovering and exploring. What beaches and islands do you think are still below the radar? – Rappler.com