With some 7,000 islands scattered across the tropical waters of the Pacific, the Philippines offers an almost unfathomable variety of coastal escapes. Whether you are scouring the map for secret coves, seeking the perfect surf break, or simply looking to fly-and-flop, the options are vast. However, finding the precise spot to string up a hammock requires a bit of sleuthing. From the northern tip of Luzon to the southern reaches of Mindanao, here is a curated look at the archipelago’s finest shorelines.
The Diver’s Haven and the Vanishing Sandbar
For those who prefer their holidays with a dash of adrenaline, Malapascua Island in the Visayas is swimming in superlatives. This low-key hub, populated by boatbuilders and coconut farmers, is world-renowned for Monad Shoal, a vortex where thresher sharks congregate like clockwork at depths of around 20 metres. Back on dry land, Bounty Beach is the place to unfurl; it is a delightful web of sandy lanes and bars where smug divers recount the day’s drama. For novices, the Malapascua Exotic Island Dive Resort offers Padi certification right on the beachfront.
Further south, anchoring the underbelly of the Philippines, lies the province of Mindanao. While often overlooked, it hosts the pearl-shaped island of Camiguin, a territory of ribbed volcanoes and backyard waterfalls. Its crown jewel is White Island, a sandbar curl that looks like a tourist board’s fever dream. It is best reached by outrigger canoe, or ‘bangka’, from Yumbing at low tide; mistime your journey, and the beach vanishes into the sea as if by magic. Guests at the nearby Kurma Eco Beach Lodge can even learn to freedive to make the most of the surrounding strait.
Limestone Lagoons and Pacific Swells
In Palawan, the Bacuit Archipelago remains the gold standard for holidaymakers. While El Nido was discovered by the masses years ago, the surrounding marine sanctuary is still spectacular. It is a landscape of emerald lagoons and karst rock formations best explored by sea kayak. Secret Beach on Matinloc Island is accessible only through a swim-through gap, while Entalula Island offers imagination-prickling white sands. For the ultimate island vibe, El Nido Resorts Miniloc Island features rooms perched directly over turquoise waters.
Surfers, often prone to hyperbole, are entirely justified in their praise of Siargao. This tropical island features the legendary Cloud 9 reef break, delivering brilliant blue barrels against a backdrop of monkey-filled jungle. Word of mouth has made Siargao one of the most talked-about surf spots in Southeast Asia, so do not expect the sands to be empty. For those prioritising comfort, the Kawayan Villa offers ample recreation space for groups up to four.
Resilience and the Blockbuster Beach
The Visayan island of Bantayan, specifically the town of Santa Fe, has bounced back remarkably since being struck by Typhoon Haiyan in 2013. Today, it is prime territory for an easy-going break. One can savour the morning on Santa Fe’s beaches, explore Sandira by motorbike taxi, and wander the main port town’s markets, which bear the checkered history of Spanish conquistadores. The Anahaw Seaside Inn provides a convenient base within walking distance of the main strip.
Then there is Boracay. With its soul-soothing White Beach and powder-blue water, this is the blockbuster destination that started it all. It is as busy as Bali these days, yet remains a dependable spot for high-octane activities, from kitesurfing to parasailing. Without the resort fanfare, it would simply be one of the world’s most beautiful beach fantasies, and the Villa Caemilla Beach Boutique Hotel offers a front-row seat to the view. Finally, for the intrepid, the northernmost tip of Palaui Island offers the rugged Cape Engano. Here, bathers hike past colonial-era Spanish relics and thick forests to reach a lighthouse overlooking a raw, pebble-strewn panorama—a stark contrast to the manicured sands of the south.
Indonesia Dominates Global Rankings in Early 2026
While the Philippines continues to court travellers with its natural splendour, its neighbour to the south has started the year with a remarkable trophy cabinet. Indonesia’s tourism sector has secured dozens of prestigious awards in the opening weeks of 2026, a feat the Ministry of Tourism describes as global recognition of the country’s competitiveness and commitment to sustainable, culture-rooted destinations.
Leading the charge is the island of Bali, which has seen an unprecedented sweep of accolades. In the Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards 2026, Bali was ranked as the number one top destination in both the World and Asia categories. Furthermore, it secured the top spot globally as the premier honeymoon destination and ranked ninth for solo travel. The island also performed exceptionally well in the cultural stakes, ranking tenth globally and fourth in Asia.
The recognition extends far beyond Bali. The BBC has listed Komodo Island as the 20th best place to travel in 2026, while Raja Ampat has been acknowledged as a must-visit Asian destination for the year. Forbes Travel placed Indonesia in the tenth position for the world’s most beautiful hidden gems, and Rough Guide ranked the nation as the 17th most beautiful country globally. Other regions, including Sumba and Labuan Bajo, alongside numerous hotels and resorts, have also received nods from major publications ranging from Condé Nast Traveler and The Times UK to Tatler Asia and Luxury Lifestyle Magazine.
A Testament to Collaboration
Widiyanti Putri Wardhana, the Minister of Tourism, expressed profound pride in the national sector’s performance. Speaking to the press on 19 January 2026, she attributed these results to the consistency and collaboration of all stakeholders in maintaining service standards and strengthening destination governance.
“Thank you for the awards given to the Indonesian tourism sector,” Wardhana stated. “This achievement is both a source of pride and a challenge for us all to continue improving the quality of tourism services and ensuring the benefits are felt by the wider community.” As 2026 unfolds, the competition for Southeast Asia’s tourism crown is evidently heating up, with travellers spoilt for choice between the Philippines’ coastal variety and Indonesia’s award-winning hospitality.