With over 7,000 islands, the Philippines is a tropical paradise filled with pristine beaches, exotic ocean life and island wonders, along with delicious food, heritage towns and friendly locals.
But so many islands means you’ve got a tough decision choosing what experiences to add to you Philippines holiday itinerary. Fortunately, we’re here to highlight some of the best summer activities in the Philippines for your next vacation.
Island Hopping in El Nido
El Nido is one of the major municipalities of the Palawan Province and has quickly earned a reputation for its stunning natural beauty. With brilliant lagoons and unspoilt beaches, El Nido is a true island paradise.
With so much to see, it’s impossible to explore the best of El Nido in just one day. However, by organising a guided island-hopping tour, you can tick off some of the best El Nido caves, white-sand beaches and off-shore islands.
Scuba Diving in Coron Bay
Coron Bay, which lies just north of Palawan island, is home to the Philippines’ largest marine sanctuary. If you’d rather spend you summer under the water’s surface, Coron Bay will treat you to enthralling wreck dives and vibrant fish and coral. Take a traditional bangka boat out into the sea and explore the colourful tropical waters through a guided scuba diving experience.
Explore the Underground River in Puerto Princesa
If you’ve got time, stop by the town of Puerto Princesa before heading out to El Nido or Coron. This small township is full of its own island charms and wonders, but is best-known for its underground river.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a definite can’t-miss attraction when in Palawan. Book this tour to take a river raft equipped with a search light and witness the cave’s stunning cathedral-like ceilings; a surreal mountain-to-sea experience.
Swim with Whale Sharks in Oslob, Cebu
There’s something about summer that brings out everyone’s adventurous side. The famous whale sharks of Cebu, locally called butanding, make their rounds in the equator area in search of warmer climates and the abundant fish.
They are completely harmless and often regarded as the ocean’s “gentle giants”. With local fishermen as expert guides, you can witness these majestic creatures up close on a one-of-a-kind whale shark swimming tour.
Visit the Chocolate Hills of Bohol
Bohol Island is an easy boat ride away from Cebu and is best-known for the Chocolate Hills. This mesmerising natural landscape features over 1,000 sprawling hills that become a warm, chocolate brown during summer. No one knows how these 1,268 hills were formed, but the locals swear not a single one is man-made.
Don’t forget to visit the cuddly tarsiers. These adorable, monkey-like creatures are endemic to Bohol and are considered the smallest primates in the world. They’ve become endangered over the years, but you can still visit them in the Tarsier Sanctuary. This easy day tour takes you to both the Chocolate Hills and Tarsier Sanctuary.
Explore Baguio City
If you’d rather spend your summer escaping the heat, cool off in Baguio City. Its cool mountain climate is a stark contrast to the rest of the country’s humid heat, making it the “Summer Capital of the Philippines”.
The city of full of charming sights and attractions, including strawberry picking at Good Shepherd and a visit to the famous BenCab Museum, which showcases the works of one of the country’s most famous artists. Need some retail therapy? Go thrift shopping at the local boutiques along Session Road.
Discover Rich History in Vigan, Ilocos Sur
History comes alive in Vigan City, Ilocos Sur. This Heritage-listed city will take you back in time with its beautiful ancestral homes, cobbled streets and horse-drawn carriages.
Many of the sights here have been preserved since the Spanish colonial period, making it an absolute delight for history buffs and travellers. The city is even more beautiful at night, when it’s illuminated in atmospheric lights and vibrant water fountain displays.
Seek Adventure in Sagada, Mountain Province
Summer in the Philippines is also a great time to explore its beautiful, landscaped mountains. A hike along one of Sagada’s many scenic trails is sure to leave you breathless and immersed deeper in the country’s diverse nature.
Get an early start and head up to Kiltepan Peak for a stunning sunrise vista. If you’d rather chase waterfalls, head to the famous Bomod-ok Falls on a scenic, but challenging three-hour hike.
Stumble Upon the Kawasan Falls
Feel the thrill of diving into a pool of crystal-blue spring waters. Make your way through the lush forest of Badian Island and stumble upon one of Cebu’s best-kept secrets: Kawasan Falls.
This magnificent three-tiered waterfall gently roars from the mountain and falls into a crystalline pool. It’s an intimate oasis perfect for a refreshing dip and leisurely picnic during your summer getaway.
River Rafting in Cebu
This immersive river tour in Aloguinsan, Cebu, lets you not only experience the stunning beauty of the Bojo River, but also gives you a rich look into the lives of the locals. Take a traditional barato boat and cruise through the Bojo River, where scenic mangroves grow nearby and are essential to the river’s natural ecosystem.
Enjoy a hearty lunch of traditional Cebuano food as your guide teaches you about the history, conservation efforts and culture surrounding the Bojo River community. Proceeds of this guided tour go to the guides as well as the local government to help preserve the river.
The Best of the Philippines
Get away from the daily grind and head over to the Philippines. Whether you’re diving in the oceans, hiking up the mountains or strolling through cultural towns, book your tours with KKday for that perfect summer vacation.
