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7,641 islands — the most beautiful waters and the clearest shallow reefs in Asia.
The Philippines is the most naturally beautiful island nation in Asia. The turquoise limestone lagoons of El Nido, the WWII shipwreck diving of Coron, the surf breaks of Siargao and the 40-metre visibility reef diving of Tubbataha — the variety of extraordinary water experiences in one country where English is universally spoken makes it one of Southeast Asia's most compelling destinations.
It requires flying between islands — the archipelago is too spread out for overland travel — but domestic flights are very cheap and the reward at each destination is extraordinary.
The Tubbataha Reef, Coron shipwrecks, Moalboal sardine run and Apo Island — the Philippines has some of the world's top 10 dive sites.
El Nido's island hopping tours through limestone karst lagoons are among the most beautiful boat trips in Asia.
Cloud 9 reef break on Siargao is the Philippines' premier surf destination — a world-class right-hand barrel in a genuinely beautiful island setting.
The most beautiful islands — fly to Puerto Princesa or El Nido direct from Manila.
The central island group — Cebu City as hub, Moalboal for diving, Oslob for whale sharks.
The surf island in the northeast — Cloud 9 reef break and the most laid-back island in the Philippines.
Domestic flights between islands are essential — book Cebu Pacific and AirAsia Philippines 2–4 weeks ahead for the best fares
Typhoon season is June–November. Check forecasts — storms can be severe and cancel inter-island ferries for days
Philippine reef systems are extraordinary — always use reef-safe sunscreen and never touch the coral
Get an open-water SCUBA certification before visiting if possible — the diving is world-class and a cert opens everything
The Philippines is one of the cheapest countries in Southeast Asia — budget travellers can live well on £20/day
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Curated via GetYourGuide — we only recommend things worth your time.
Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon and Shimizu Island — the essential El Nido day.
WWII Japanese fleet in crystal-clear water.
Swim with the world's largest fish off the Cebu coast.
The 1,268 conical hills with tarsier sanctuary visit.
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