Off the Beaten Path – the Philippines’ Top Hidden Summer Getaways
Summer is upon us! It’s once again the season to go on adventures and spoil yourself on much-deserved vacations. And you’re not alone in thinking this, meaning many people are also planning to drive up to Baguio, or book a flight to Boracay.
In recent years, we’ve seen an increasing number of local tourists throughout the country. More and more people are heading to our go-to summer destinations. Now, while this is good news for local economies, the downside is that what were once peaceful getaways are now congested with crowds.
As much as you would like to take this time to recharge, it can be next to impossible to relax when a place is filled to the brim with other travelers.
There’s nothing wrong with patronizing the classics, but the Philippines has a wealth of other, lesser-known places which also feature beautiful sights and rich cultures.
Here’s a list of a few of our favorite spots – hidden gems, where you can actually hear yourself think and get that much-needed R&R away from the crazy crowds:
Maosanon Island
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Maosanon Island is a privately-owned island spanning 45 hectares. Located off the coast of Sibaltan in Palawan, the island boasts of 500 meters of powdery-white sand, leading into lovely turquoise waters.
It is important to note, however, that there is no electricity on the island. The only structures there are the caretaker’s hut as well as a few makeshift cottages that visitors can use – which, quite frankly, adds to the charm of this secluded paradise.
How to get there: Fly to El Nido, and ride a jeep or van going to Sibaltan. From Sibaltan, you can rent a boat to take you on a whole-day tour, which includes Maosanon Island, Little Maosonon Island, Pical, and Magransing.
Danjugan Island
Located in Negros Occidental, Danjugan Island offers the perfect island getaway for nature-lovers. It’s a lush, 43-hectare island that happens to be a marine and wildlife sanctuary. Here, you can experience some of the Philippines’ natural wonders first-hand.
Whether you want to relax amidst peaceful surroundings, or explore the island’s incredible biodiversity which includes its ten diving spots, you’ll surely be in for an amazing time.
How to get there: Fly to Bacolod City, then hop on a bus to Bulata. From there, you can reach the island via a 30-minute boat ride.
Palaui Island
You can find Palaui Island on the northeastern tip of mainland Luzon, just off of Sta. Ana, Cagayan. The island is home to beautiful white-sand beaches, panoramic coves, and majestic waterfalls.
Aside from its gorgeous beach, another main attraction of Palaui Island is the Farol de Cabo Engaño, an 18th century lighthouse built by the Spaniards that still stands to this day.
There is also no electricity or commercial establishments here, so if you’re looking to disconnect for a while, this is a good place to spend some time.
How to get there: You can opt for a bus or a plane going to Tuguegarao City, Cagayan. From there, you can take a bus or a van going to Sta. Ana. Once in Sta. Ana, take a trike going to the PASAMOBA office in San Vicente port, where you will have to register and rent a boat to get to the island.
Cabgan Islet
Cabgan Islet is one of the many hidden gems that you can find in Surigao del Sur. The island offers clear waters, lovely sand, and magnificent views.
The island is uninhabited, so make sure to bring food and everything else you’ll need. Make sure that you also leave nothing behind when you depart.
How to get there: Fly to Butuan City and ride a bus that passes by Barobo. From Barobo’s bus terminal, take a tricycle going to the port. From there, hire a boat to take you on an island-hopping tour that covers Cabgan Islet.
Biliran
Biliran is a former sub-province of Leyte. It was only in 1992 when it became independent, making it one of the newest provinces in the Philippines.
Not a lot of people know about this small province, but Biliran is a wonderful place to explore. Its coastal roads come with amazing views, and you can easily explore the island by motorcycle.
Whether you choose to frolic around the beach, or trek all the way to its impressive waterfalls, you will surely be met with stunning scenery. Biliran also has rice terraces that are worth the trip.
How to get there: Fly to Tacloban City, Leyte. From the airport, ride a jeep going to the downtown area, then a Grand Tours Van headed to Naval town proper.
Bulalacao
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Situated in the island province of Oriental Mindoro, Bulalacao is a breathtaking paradise filled with beaches, hidden coves, and dive sites.
Bulalacao is the perfect place to do some island-hopping. Only a few establishments can be found on some islands, and some of its islets are privately owned. Nevertheless, travelers are free to visit and escape to these islands for the day, and marvel at the beauty and serenity that the islands in Bulalacao have to offer.
