When it comes to luxury travel destinations, the Philippines can sometimes get overshadowed by its Southeast Asian neighbours.
But for in the know travellers, the 7000-plus island archipelago is an exotic haven for those in search of a slice of luxury in a tropical paradise setting. With its blend of abundant white sand beaches, natural beauty and a huge variety of once in a lifetime outdoor adventure activities, the Philippines offers indulgence, relaxation and bespoke experiences to suit every type of luxury traveller.
Imagine island hopping on a private boat, waking up in a luxury villa overlooking turquoise waters, or being guided below the ocean’s surface to see some of the rarest and most majestic marine life on the planet. To inspire your next paradise escape, here are some of the best luxury locations in the Philippines including where to stay and what to see and do when you get there for a truly unique experience.
Siargao Island
Known as the ‘surfing capital of the Philippines’, Siargao Island is located in Surigao del Norte, offering a wealth of stunning natural sights and exciting outdoor activities. On Siargao Island, travellers can embrace the island’s unique mix of thrilling water sports alongside its stunning lagoons and beaches, fresh local seafood dishes and laidback tropical island vibe.
Where to stay: for the ultimate feeling of seclusion and freedom, Nay Palad Hideaway on the small palm-fringed island of Siargao offers nine luxuriously designed villas – each with its own private terrace and views of the lush tropical surrounds. The resort’s beautiful infinity pool offers a perfect place to relax while the decadent onsite spa facilities provide guests with a selection of world-class treatments including therapists specialising in Hilot, a traditional Filipino massage recognised for its healing qualities.
What to do: an escape to Siargao Island promises the perfect blend of outdoor adventure activities as well as plentiful tropical settings in which to unwind and relax. Some of the top activities to add to your itinerary during a visit to Siargao include island hopping excursions to the nearby Naked Island, Daku Island and Guyam Island, and visiting other natural wonders such as Sugba Lagoon, Magpupungko Rock Pools and the enchanting caves and lagoons of Sohoton Cove National Park.
For the best of Siargao’s beach life, General Luna Beach offers plentiful beachside restaurants and bars, while the peaceful Malinao Beach, with its white sands and calm clear waters, promises the ultimate tranquillity. For a more off-the-beaten-path beach experience, you might take a trip to Alegria Beach on the northern shore of the island.
Samal Island, Davao
Samal Island, known as the ‘Island Garden City of Samal’, is a picturesque destination located in Davao del Norte – a short ferry hop from Davao City, making it a convenient and easy-to-access luxury destination. Made up of a main island and several smaller islands, Samal Island is a traveller’s paradise filled with tropical landscapes and pristine beaches waiting to be explored.
Where to stay: Pearl Farm Beach on Samal Island offers guests a luxurious experience of nature with first-class resort amenities. Boasting its very own private marina, you’ll arrive in style surrounded by crystal clear waters before discovering your oasis-style accommodation, which includes a choice of individual suites built on stilts over the water, private island villas, or hilltop villas with panoramic island views.
While you’ll spend your days at the resort lounging on the private white sand beach, indulging in spa treatments, or enjoying a cocktail by the infinity pool, the resort offers a range of water activities to make the most of your private tropical island experience including snorkelling, diving, kayaking and paddleboarding. Evenings will be spent enjoying incredible cuisine, from Filipino to international dishes from across Asia and the world.
What to do: island hopping is a must-experience when visiting Samal Island and a great way to see more of the destination’s highlights from the ocean including Kaputian Beach, Paradise Island and Canibad Beach. Other top experiences include visiting Hagimit Falls – a serene waterfall with natural pools for swimming, Vanishing Island – a sandbar that disappears at high tide, and Talikud Island – known for its stunning coral gardens and world-class diving experiences.
Cebu Island
Cebu Island is a unique offering for travellers, thanks to its blend of vibrant city life, cultural heritage, and idyllic tropical escapes. Cebu is well-known for its variety of stunning small islands and beaches including Mactan Island, Bantayan Island, Malapascua Island, and Camotes Islands, as well as cultural activities and sights including the energetic Sinulog Festival in January, San Pedro Fort, Basilica Minore del Santo Nino and Magellan’s Cross in Cebu City.
Where to stay: located in Moalboal, Cebu, you can explore the best of Cebu’s coastline underwater while enjoying the spoils and hospitality of a luxury stay at Turtle Bay Dive Resort. While the resort specialises in some of the country’s best diving experiences, there are plenty of other exciting activities on offer for non-divers including day trips to nearby attractions, snorkelling and kayaking and paddleboarding. You can also simply relax by the pool or in the beautiful gardens or enjoy a massage at the resort spa.
Top dive experiences from the resort include visits to Pescador Island for its vibrant reefs, colourful fish, turtles and reef sharks, and even night dives to discover rare nocturnal creatures.
What to do: a visit to the nearby Kawasan Falls is a must. The falls are characterised by the powerful cascade of water that plunges into a deep, blue pool below surrounded by limestone cliffs and tropical vegetation. At the pool, visitors can enjoy swimming, floating on a bamboo raft, jumping from cliffs and short canyoneering adventures.
Have you been to the Philippines? Why not share your tips in the comments section below?
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