I've traveled around the Philippines and seen some of the country's most beautiful beaches. Some have fine, white sand while others are golden brown. Some of these places can rival beaches found in other countries.
In my opinion, these are some of the top beaches in the Philippines.
The top beaches in the Philippines on this list are in no particular order.
Boracay
Boracay is often on lists about the most beautiful beaches in Asia or the world. This comes as no surprise because Boracay is truly beautiful regardless of the island's supposed overtourism and overdevelopment. This destination has a fine, white sand beach and a must-see sunset. The waters are swimmable for most of the year and there are plenty of activities other than beach bumming. It is also accessbile. There are plenty of flights to nearby Caticlan or Kalibo. Boracay is definitely one of the top beaches in the Philippines.
Book an island hopping excursion here: Boracay island hopping
Look for a place to stay here: where to stay in Boracay
Daku Island
Siargao is famous as a surfing destination, but after riding the waves, you can find a few beaches where you can relax, sunbathe or just swim. One of the beaches you can visit is Daku Island. The island is part of a tour that includes Naked Island and Guyam Island.
Look for a place to stay here: Siargao accommodation
Dibutunay Island
It was chance that brought me to Dibutunay Island. During our Calauit Safari tour, our boatman decided to go to Dibutunay instead of Black Island. The beach was pristine with powdery, bone white sand and sparkling turquoise waters, all of these characteristics made this one of the top beaches in the Philippines. Our group swam in the waters, sunbathed and took numerous photos. There was only one other group when we went.
Book a tour here: Calauit Safari tour
Paradise Beach
Tour D doesn't get much attention as it should. Paradise Beach is one of the places you'll visit if ever you take tour D. I had to hire a boat to do this tour because the operators in El Nido don't offer this unless a group wants to do this trip. Paradise Beach lives up to its moniker. I had the island to myself when I went. The sand is fine and the waters crystal clear. I took my time lounging around and soaking up the tropical ambiance.
Look for a place to stay here: where to stay in El Nido
Malcapuya Island
I was finally able to see Malcapuya Island during my third trip to Coron. It is definitely one of the best beaches in the Philippines. The blue and warm waters, powdery sand, and the idyllic atmosphere make it a perfect island getaway. The long trip from town was worth it. You could go on a snorkeling trip while on the island, but I decided not to do it. I spent my time here swimming and lounging around.
Check out this post: things to do in Coron
Bita-og Beach
The province of Dinagat Islands isn't as popular as other destinations on this list, that's what makes Bita-og a noteworthy stop for me. It has white sand and emerald-tinged waters that would remind one of the beaches in El Nido or Coron. Our small group (my boatman, his son and me) were the only ones on the island.
Urbiztondo Beach
Urbiztondo Beach in La Union or Elyu doesn't have the same powdery coastline and clear waters as its counterparts in Palawan or Boracay. However, many go to this part of Luzon to surf, chill, or eat at the nearby restaurants and cafes. La Union's accessibility by private or public transportation (plus the affordable surfing rates) make it a popular weekend or holiday destination.
Look for accommodation here: La Union accommodation
Marimegmeg Beach
Marimegmeg is one of the best beaches in the Philippines for a variety of reasons some of which are it's the perfect sunset watching spot in El Nido and it's a great place to chill and unwind in after a couple of days island hopping. Despite the development that has taken place over the years, the views are still amazing.
Look for a place to stay here: accommodation in El Nido
Check out this post: things to do in El Nido
Entalula Island
Palawan has plenty of entries on my list, Entalula Island is another. This white sand beach with a distinctive rock formation along its shore is stunning. The clear, blue waters and serene ambiance (before other boats arrive haha!) make it a noteworthy destination. Dip in the waters, take photos or get a tan while waiting for your boatman's call to leave. Entalula is part of El Nido's tour B.
Book here: tour B
Subic Beach
Located in Sorsogon, Subic Beach has a mixture of white and pinkish sand (if you look close enough). I've been to this beach twice over the years and have seen the changes it has undergone. There are now more tourism facilities (and more people), but these didn't detract from the beauty of the place.
Halea Nature Park
Halea was a pleasant surprise for me. When our group went to this island, I didn't have any expectations (which always helps). As our boat approached the island, I was immediately captivated. The crystal clear waters were perfect for swimming in. There's also a nearby snorkeling spot where you could catch a glimpse of baby sharks swimming about.