Top 37 Hidden Tourist Spots in the Philippines Travel Pros Rave About
Danjugan Island 1/37Cauayan, Negros Occidental (Check available Flights and Hotels)
© Yoshke Dimen and Vins Carlos, The Poor Traveler
Yoshke Dimen and Vins Carlos of The Poor Traveler say- “Danjugan Island is a rainforest-covered island and rich marine sanctuary that can be reached after a 4-hour drive from Bacolod and a 30-minute boat ride from mainland Cauayan. The island has five lagoons, two of which you can explore by kayak. Since it’s a protected area, fishing is not allowed here, allowing marine life to explode in full color. The best part is, you don’t need to be a scuba diver to enjoy it, you can simply do so by snorkeling. There you can see the bluest giant clams, humongous table corals, and all sorts of fish including juvenile black-tip sharks (if your timing is right). Danjugan Island can accept only a handful of guests per day – this ensures that the island’s pristine conditions will remain so for a long time.”
Sundang Island 2/37Lumot Mahipon Lake, Cavinti, Laguna(Check available Hotels)
© JB and Renee Macatulad, Will Fly for Food
JB and Renee Macatulad of Will Fly for Food say- “Have you ever fantasized about having your own private island? Well, you can with Sundang Island in Cavinti, Laguna. For as low as about P3,400 a night, you can rent this small island and house in the middle of a lake. The island in Lumot Mahipon Lake can be booked online, and it comes complete with boat transfers for groups as big as ten. Just hop into your car and make the 3-4 hour drive southeast of Manila to become king or queen of your very own island. Awesome!”
Bayugin Falls 3/37Bulusan, Sorsogon(Check available Flights and Hotels)
© Nina Fuentes, Just Wandering
Nina Fuentes of Just Wandering says- “Visitors in Bulusan flock to the Bulusan Volcano National Park, but not many make it to Bayugin Falls. It’s a small waterfall, but the water is very cold and refreshing, especially on a hot and humid day.To get there, drive or take a tricycle up to Bgy. San Francisco. Admission fee is only 15 pesos per guest, vehicle parking costs 20 pesos, and cottages can be rented for 150 pesos. You can also get a guide, but there is no set amount for his fee. Once there, you need to take a short trek, and climb 278 steps down to reach the waterfalls. You can swim and take countless selfies near or under the waterfalls, but there is also a bigger swimming area towards the other end where the water flow is not as strong. Make sure to bring some food and drinks with you, because there are no stores there!”
Bonbon Beach 4/37Romblon, Romblon(Check available Flights and Hotels)
© J.P. Leo Castillo,Shoestring Travelers
Joshua Berida of The Wandering Juan says- “Bonbon Beach in Romblon has fine, white sand, clear waters and a beautiful view. I first learned about Bonbon from another travel blog and decided to visit when I was in the province. Luckily, there weren’t too many people around! Make sure to wait until sunset so you get to see the sky turn into variants of red and orange before getting dark. The beach is easily accessible by public transport from the town. Simply board a tricycle, and tell the driver you’d like to go to Bonbon Beach. There are now flights from Manila to Tablas Island, Romblon, your next gateway to the beach.”
Kiokong White Rock Wall 5/37Quezon, Bukidnon(Check available Flights and Hotels)
© Kara Santos, Travel Up
Kara Santos of Travel Up says- “The Kiokong White Rock Wall is visible from a bridge along the Davao Bukidnon Highway. It’s one of the main attractions at the Kiokong Eco-Tourism Project site where you can also go rock climbing, rappelling from a bridge or swimming in the Blue Water Cave Pool nearby. Adventure Technology Outfitters, an outdoor group based in Bukidnon, offers tours where guests can ascend and stay overnight on the ledge of a cliff, 400 feet above the ground. For extreme adventurers, this is an amazing experience definitely worth putting on your bucket list.The site is accessible by land travel from Davao City or Cagayan de Oro City. I booked my return flight to Davao via Traveloka to get to Bukidnon, but if you want to see more of the province, you could go on a road trip and fly back via Cagayan de Oro instead.”
Mausonoan Island 6/37Linapacan, Palawan(Check available Flights and Hotels)
© Ferdz Decena, Ironwulf
Ferdz Decena of Ironwulf says- “Mausonoan Island is easily accessible from Sibaltan, El Nido. Unspoiled by tourists and development, the island boasts of white powdery sand and incredibly clear turquoise waters. While you’re there, make sure to visit the nearby islands of Magransing and Binulbulan for excellent snorkeling.”
Codcod Rice Terraces 7/37San Carlos City, Negros Occidental (Check available Flights and Hotels)
© Jeffrey Rilles, Traveling Morion
Jeffrey of Traveling Morion says- “The Codcod rice terraces are the results of the artistic labor and dedication of the Codcod locals. With the cool weather, stunning views of Mt. Kanlaon, and the wonderful people, the terraces could possibly be the next ecotourism site. The Codcod Rice Terraces are located in Barangay Codcod, an upland barangay of San Carlos City.From San Carlos City, take a bus bound to Bacolod. Alight at the crossing going to Barangay Quezon. From there, hire a habal-habal that will take you to Barangay Codcod after passing Barangay Quezon. Alternately, you can also hire a habal-habal from San Carlos City proper to go directly to Barangay Codcod.”
Panguan Island 8/37Sitangkai, Tawi-Tawi(Check available Flights and Hotels)
© Ervin Malicdem, Schadow1 Expeditions
Ervin Malicdem of Schadow1 Expeditions says- “Around 30 minutes away from Semporna, Sabah, and under the municipality of Sitangkai in Tawi-Tawi, Panguan Island is considered one of the most remote islands in the southern part of the Philippines. Also known as “Malamanok” in the local dialect, the island is where sea farers from the Sulu archipelago head over to roast their chicken for meals before heading to Malaysia. Luckily, I was able to get to Panguan Island through an invite from the marine corps for my mapping expedition, reconnaissance, and extraction mission. If you plan a visit, it can be reached via a 6-hour boat ride from Bongao.”
Bulusan Volcano Natural Park 9/37Bulusan, Sorsogon(Check available Flights and Hotels)
© Lilliane Cobiao, Wanderlass
Lilliane Cobiao of Wanderlass says- “The town of Bulusan, Sorsogon is embraced by lush tropical greenery. In fact, the town’s pride, Bulusan Volcano National Park is located at the foot of the country’s fourth most active volcano in and serves as a sanctuary for a variety of plants and birds.Guests can choose to hire a guide to explore the area, or they can simply rent a kayak (about P100 per boat) to paddle around the clear waters. The park has hanging bridges that give you aerial views of the lands, as well as different treks, and areas for resting.”
Niludhan Falls 10/37Bayawan City, Negros Oriental(Check available Flights and Hotels)
© Jeffrey Rilles, Traveling Morion
Jeffrey of Traveling Morion says- “Niludhan falls is the pride and joy of Negros Oriental. It is a natural attraction that has yet to be explored by most. This waterfalls is hidden deep within the city’s forests and sugarcane plantations. Despite the different projects created to make it more accessible, Niludhan falls is still quite a long travel. But it’s actually the best part about it. It leads you so far from the urbanized city, making you feel like you are one with nature.The waterfall is around 25 meters wide and has a 40-meter vertical drop that builds a beautiful curtain of water. The plants around the area are also magnificent. The white color of the falls combined with the green of the plants and the blue of the sky make every angle a perfect shot.There are flights that can be booked headed to Dumaguete City. Once you are there, you can choose which one of the routes you would like to take. From there you can take the Bayawan Route (ride a Ceres bus near Robinson’s Place mall headed to Bayawan City. From there, ride a bus to Mabinay and go down on the stop of Niludhan Falls.”
Aglicay Beach 11/37Tablas Island, Romblon(Check available Flights and Hotels)
© Carlo Domniguez, Travelosyo
Carlo Dominguez of Travelosyo says- “Tablas Island is the largest of the islands that comprise Romblon. When people hear the word Romblon, they will immediately think about marble. Indeed, the province is the marble capital of the country, but only a few know that it is also home to some of best beaches just waiting to be discovered.Overshadowed by its neighboring superstar, Boracay, Tablas Island is just a few hours boat ride from Caticlan. Aglicay Beach is one of my favorite beaches. Its shoreline features almost a half-kilometer stretch of white sand, while the surrounding water is calm, clear and turquoise green. This place is perfect for people who are looking for a relaxing vacation.Aside from Aglicay Beach, there are so many things to see and do on Tablas Island. That is why you should visit Romblon before everybody does. To get here You can book a flight from Manila to Tablas Island via Traveloka.”
Panampangan Island 12/37Sapa-Sapa, Tawi-Tawi(Check available Flights and Hotels)
© Marky Ramone Go, Nomadic Experiences
Marky Ramone Go of Nomadic Experiences says- “Panampangan island is a 12-hectare property located in between the municipalities of Panglima Sugala and Sapi Sapi. Though the island is undeniably breathtaking with its white sand and towering palm trees, it still remains to be fairly unvisited by tourists.During low tide, the island reveals a 3.1-kilometer long sandbar that extends its reach to the neighboring island in the same reef. Wade a few hundred meters offshore and you’ll be greeted by one of the richest marine life you’ll ever see. Sea urchins, turtles, colorful fishes, and pristine corals — still unspoiled. Today, the island has a few simple huts for visitors looking for a relaxing retreat. It’s managed by a family of friendly locals who will gladly provide you with a delicious feast straight from the sea. The nearest jump-off point is about 24 kilometers away in Panglima Sugala where you can take a two-hour boat ride to the island.”
Cabgan Islet 13/37Barobo, Surigao del Sur(Check available Flights and Hotels)
© Gabz Gabiano, Pinoy Travel Freak
Gabz Gabiano of Pinoy Travel Freak says- “Surigao del Sur has plenty of hidden gems and one of my recent discoveries is the Cabgan Islet in Barobo It’s one of the three islands that you can visit in Barobo along with Turtle Island, but Cabgan Islet is the best for me in terms of sand quality, clarity of water and fantastic view! I first learned about it when I was looking at the Google Maps during my backpacking trip in Mindanao. To get there, just take a bus from Butuan City, Surigao City or Davao City that passes by Barobo. From the bus terminal of Barobo, take a tricycle to the port where you can hire a boat for an island hopping tour which costs P1,500 for three islands.”
Cambais Falls 14/37Alegria, Cebu(Check available Flights and Hotels)
© CJ Estrada, Four Eyed Laagan
CJ Estrada of Four Eyed Laagan says- “Cambais Falls is a gorgeous waterfall in Alegria, Cebu. It is located 11.3 km from the highway, thus a long and adventurous ride awaits.The 2-tier waterfall is undeniably worthy of its distance. The cold spring and the awe-inspiring view of the waterfall itself say it all. The wide pool of icy cold water and second level tier makes for a great jumping-off point for adventurous travelers.To get there, you can ride a bus from Cebu City straight to Alegria Market for P160-180 (depends on the bus type). From there, you can ride a motorcycle taxi (habal-habal) going to Cambais Falls for P150-200 each (depends on negotiation). Entrance fee to the waterfall is P30 per person. You can also opt in to bring your own vehicle but I would advise to bring a vehicle that can handle rough roads.”
Casino and Kandungaw Peaks 15/37Dalaguete, Cebu(Check available Flights and Hotels)
© Mel Jun Mendoza, D’YAN LANG
Abbie Ruiz of D’YAN LANG says- “Aside from the more famous attractions like the highest Osmena peak, Dalaguete has more mountains to climb. They say it’s a 20-minute trek up Casino Peak, but it took us a good 45-minutes thanks to the instagram-worthy scenery. Once you get to the top, you’ll be greeted by the breathtaking views of the hills that resemble the Chocolate Hills in Bohol. In fact, the view is so beautiful that travelers come all the way just to see it. The trek to Kandungaw is a more challenging experience. To get to the top, you have to climb 195 steps, pass through muddy trails, and climb steep rocks. It’s not for the faint of heart, but if you’re up for an adventure, the view is more than worth it. To cap off your trip, you can pass by Sergio’s Farm where you can pick and pay for some strawberries and all kinds of herbs depending on the season.”
Alibijaban Island 16/37San Andres, Quezon(Check availableHotels)
© Jay Noma Ramos and Angelo Nivera, The Byajayro
Jay Noma Ramos and Angelo Nivera of The Byajayro say- “Alibijaban Island is a virgin paradise located at the most southern tip of Quezon and is in the municipality of San Andres.From Manila, you will need to take a nine to ten-hour bus ride or six to seven hours of driving, if you have your own car. Having to endure the bumpy and itchy trip to San Andres pays huge rewards at the end, as the island is amazing.Alibijaban Island offers a very scenic and picturesque view of golden to white sand, crystal clear waters and undisturbed forests. To get there, take a bus going to San Andres, Quezon via Barney Bus (Alabang Starmall). Travel time is at least 8 hours.”
Palani Beach 17/37Balud, Masbate(Check available Flights and Hotels)
© Lloyd Salac, The Lost Boy Lloyd
Lloyd Salac of The Lost Boy Lloyd says- “To manage expectations, I’d be honest and say Palani Beach isn’t exactly at par with Boracay’s White Beach. Nonetheless, it has the trifecta of what makes a great beach: an unspoiled stretch of white sand, crystal clear waters, and a pure breeze that wafts towards the shore. The beach resort was developed with the inspiration of “old Boracay” in mind — calm, beautiful and away from pollution.From Masbate Airport, you can take a jeep or a bus heading towards Balud Town. About 10 kilometers before you hit the town proper, along the National Highway, there will be an access road on the right that will lead you to Palani. From there, habal-habal drivers can be hired to take you straight to the beach.”
Pinipisakan Falls & Sulpan Cave 18/37San Jorge, Samar(Check available Flights and Hotels)
© Joni Bonifacio, Trexplore the Adventures
Joni Bonifacio of Trexplore the Adventures says- “Hard to get to, Pinipisakan Falls & Sulpan Cave are truly Samar’s hidden gems because even locals are hesitant to take the trip.The journey requires a lot of physical strength and determination with its treacherous climbs, strong currents, and slippery terrain. But the sight of the falls alone will cure any aches and pains the trek might have caused you. After crossing the crystal clear river, the towering curtains of water will greet you — you’ve made it! Though you can choose to camp by the pool, it’s is advisable to climb the 4 layered falls to reach the hidden Sulpan Cave. From there, you can traverse from one opening of the cave to the other, marvel at the rock formations, and jump off cliffs to the cool water below.”
Maligcong Rice Terraces 19/37Bontoc, Mountain Province(Check availableHotels)
© Ferdz Decena, Ironwulf
Adah Grace Dela Cruz of Pinay Wanderess says- “Bontoc, Mt. Province is the road less traveled of the Cordillera region. Whenever we’d talk about Cordillera terraces, we would often have Banaue and Batad in mind. But what everyone does not know is there’s this hidden and equally gorgeous slopes of rice fields. I discovered this hidden gem in 2015 during my first solo backpacking trip in Cordillera. My friend who had been there first told me about it and he wasn’t kidding when he told me that it is indeed stunning. The best time to see this paradise is in the morning as the glorious flares of sunrise reflect on the magnificent rice terraces. It requires an easy hike that is totally perfect for beginners! I’d been here in November, February, and May; and the best month by far was November. You can take the van from Banaue to Sagada and ask the driver to drop you off at Bontoc proper. There should be a jeepney terminal near the tourism office that will bring you to Maligcong. Look for Ate Suzette, she has always been my host and a friend. She also has the best oatmeal cookie in town!”
Pinacanauan River 20/37Penablanca, Cagayan(Check available Flights and Hotels)
© Estan Cabigas, Langyaw Travel
Estan Cabigas of Langyaw Travel says- “Pinacanauan River is pristine, cool and meanders through some of the amazing natural landscapes in Cagayan province. You can take a cruise, or paddle through its rapids, stop and watch the circadian bat flight at dusk or just enjoy the rock walls and rock formations along it’s route. I happened to know it during a trip to Callao Caves. From Tuguegarao, head to Peñablanca where Callao and Sierra Caves are.”
Callao Cave 21/37Penablanca, Cagayan(Check available Flights and Hotels)
© Omar Chad M, 500px
Roxainne Ritual of Dorang Petite says- “Callao cave is a limestone cave with seven chambers situated at the northern tip of the Philippines. There are also several spectacular formations inside the cave.Getting to the cave itself requires you to climb 184 concrete steps. It has natural crevices that let light into it, giving you lots of opportunities for Instagram-worthy moments. If you’re particularly religious, its first chamber has actually been turned into a chapel by the community because of its cathedral-like dimensions. The Callao Cave is also near the Bat Cave, where you can watch the daily circadian flight of bats at dusk.To get to the Callao Cave, take a bus to Tugegarao City. This is a 10 to 14 hour drive, so if you can’t stand that, book a flight to Tugegarao City. The flight cuts down your travel time to one hour. From Tugegarao, take a 20-minute tricycle ride to Penablanca. After that, take another tricycle from Penablanca to the Callao Cave. Total trip time is 40 minutes.”
Lapsay Lagoon 22/37Taganaan, Surigao del Norte(Check available Flights and Hotels)
©Jeffrey Rilles, Traveling Morion
Jeffrey Rilles of Traveling Morion says- “Surigao del Norte never fails to amaze me! I have good memories of the place, especially of the beaches, the fresh seafood, wonderful people and its newest gem, the beautiful Lapsay Lagoon located in Tinago island in the municipality of Tagana-an. I don’t want to compare but the lagoon is similar to the Kayangan Lake in Coron or Sohoton of Bucas Grande (located also in Surigao del Norte). It’s definitely paradise on earth!”
Vanishing Island 23/37Malilipot, Albay(Check available Flights and Hotels)
© Jay Noma Ramos and Angelo Nivera, The Byajayro
Jay Noma Ramos and Angelo Nivera of The Byajayro say- “In the middle of the ocean of Malilipot, Albay you will discover a spell-binding sight that emerges when the tide recedes. It is believed to have come about as a result of the huge waves that hit the area during strong typhoons. It is not surprising how this charming and beautiful island has become a main tourist attraction of Albay.Vanishing Island was the name given to this magical place because it literally vanishes during high tide – not there, gone, nada!The island is an hour away from either Tabacco or Bacacay Port. You will know you are near when you can see in the distance tiny cottages that appear to be floating on the ocean.During high tide, most adults can wade through the knee-high water, but maybe that might be too deep for the younger kids. It’s deep enough to swim in and t[……]