The Philippines isn’t short on beautiful coastlines, but some spots manage to stick in your memory long after you’ve left. It’s not just the fine white sand or the turquoise water — it’s the way each beach feels different, from the lively stretches packed with food stalls to the quiet coves where you hear nothing but waves.
Whether you’re in it for water sports, sunsets, or just a hammock and a cold drink, the islands have a beach for you.
Here’s a look at 16 beaches worth adding to your travel plans.
White Beach, Boracay
Often talked about and for good reason, White Beach has a mix of calm waters and powdery sand that’s hard to beat. The area is lined with restaurants and small bars, so you’re never far from a meal or a cool drink. While it can get busy, mornings tend to be quieter and perfect for a swim.
Watching the sun drop into the horizon here feels like a small daily event — people gather, cameras come out, and the whole beach glows.
Nacpan Beach, Palawan
About 45 minutes from El Nido town, Nacpan stretches for miles with barely a building in sight. The waves are gentle most days, making it safe for kids and casual swimmers.
Local food shacks dot the shore, offering grilled fish that often comes fresh from a morning catch. Even with its growing popularity, it still feels open and unhurried compared to the busier island spots.
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Saud Beach, Pagudpud
In the far north of Luzon, Saud Beach greets you with a long arc of sand and palm trees leaning toward the sea. The water is usually calm and clear, making it a favorite for relaxed swimming.
A few resorts sit back from the sand, keeping the place peaceful but not isolated. It’s the kind of beach where you lose track of time just watching small fishing boats come and go.
Alona Beach, Bohol
This beach is popular among divers thanks to the easy access to nearby reefs. The sand is soft underfoot, and the shallow entry makes it beginner-friendly for swimming.
Small cafés and dive shops line the stretch, giving it a lively but laid-back feel. At night, it turns into a mellow spot for dinner by the shore under strings of warm lights.
Calaguas Islands, Camarines Norte
Reaching Calaguas takes some planning — a long boat ride is part of the deal — but the payoff is an unspoiled shoreline with no major development. The sand is fine and pale, and the water is the kind of clear that shows off every shell and stone beneath.
Camping is common here, with nights spent under bright stars. It’s remote enough that you’ll likely share it with just a few other groups.
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Dahican Beach, Mati
Dahican is a favorite among skimboarders and surfers, especially during the Amihan season when waves roll in steadily. Even if you’re not into boards, the open stretch of sand and bright blue water is worth the visit.
Locals are known for being warm and welcoming, often inviting travelers to join in a beach game or meal. Sunrises here are especially striking, with the sky turning from deep purple to bright gold.
Malapascua Island, Cebu
Malapascua is best known to divers for its thresher shark sightings, but the beaches themselves are worth lingering on. The sand is soft, the water is gentle, and small fishing boats dot the shoreline.
It’s a slow-paced island, where evenings often mean sitting on the sand with a plate of fresh seafood. Even during busier seasons, it never feels overcrowded.
Siargao’s Naked Island
This tiny sandbar has no shade, no buildings, and no distractions — just sand surrounded by shallow, clear water. Boats from nearby islands often stop here for a short swim or picnic.
The lack of facilities is part of its charm, keeping it simple and unspoiled. Time your visit for early morning or late afternoon to avoid the harshest sun.
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Pagudpud’s Blue Lagoon
Despite the name, this is actually a beach cove where the water shines bright blue against fine white sand. The waves are playful but not too rough, making it a fun swimming spot.
A few local stalls offer snacks and cold drinks right by the shore. It’s less crowded than Saud Beach but just as scenic.
Paliton Beach, Siquijor
Paliton is often compared to Boracay in its early days — quiet, clean, and naturally beautiful. The water is calm enough almost to mirror the sky, and it’s common to see locals gathering for a chat as the day winds down.
Palm trees provide natural shade for long afternoons. The sunsets here are understated but stunning, painting the horizon in soft pastels.
Long Beach, San Vicente
As the name suggests, this beach goes on and on — over nine miles of uninterrupted sand. It’s still relatively undeveloped, with only a handful of resorts spread far apart.
Walking here feels like having the shore to yourself for stretches at a time. The sea is usually gentle, making it good for long, lazy swims.
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Honda Bay Islands, Palawan
Honda Bay isn’t one single beach but a cluster of small islands, each with its sandy stretch. Island-hopping tours let you spend a little time on each — some have picnic areas, others are best for snorkeling.
The water is usually calm and shallow, so it’s good for kids and non-swimmers. The variety makes it easy to find your favorite spot.
Santa Fe Beach, Bantayan Island
Santa Fe has wide, sandy shores and a relaxed town atmosphere just steps away. The shallow water extends far out, creating safe conditions for wading and swimming.
Small cafés and guesthouses line the back of the beach, giving easy access to meals and shade. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to stay longer than planned.
Banol Beach, Coron
Banol is a small but beautiful beach often included in island-hopping trips around Coron. The sand is bright white, and limestone cliffs frame the background.
The shallow, clear water makes it a natural swimming spot. It’s also close to popular snorkeling areas, so you can mix beach time with exploring the reefs.
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White Island, Camiguin
Another sandbar on the list, White Island, sits just off Camiguin and offers a full view of Mount Hibok-Hibok in the background. There’s no shelter here, so visits are best timed for cooler hours. The water around it is shallow, creating a natural swimming pool feel.
The combination of mountain and sea views makes it stand out from other beaches.
Marimegmeg Beach, El Nido
Marimegmeg is known for its sunset views and easygoing vibe. The sand is soft, the water is warm, and a few bars and cafés offer seats right at the edge.
You can rent kayaks or paddleboards if you want to explore farther. It’s lively without being overwhelming, a balance that’s hard to find in popular beach towns.
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