"ISLAND HOPPING IN THE PHILIPPINES": TRAVEL WITH DE MODE

ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED IN DE MODE | TRAVEL

Article Published on: 07TH JULY 2024 | www.demodemagazine.com

The Philippines, an archipelago of over 7,000 islands, is a paradise for travelers seeking sun, sea, and adventure. With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and rich cultural heritage, island hopping in the Philippines offers an unparalleled experience. Here’s an in-depth guide to exploring some of the country’s most stunning islands and what makes them each unique.

1. Palawan: The Last Frontier

Palawan is often referred to as the last ecological frontier of the Philippines, boasting unspoiled landscapes, limestone cliffs, and hidden lagoons. Two of its most famous destinations for island hopping are El Nido and Coron.

El Nido: Known for its dramatic karst limestone formations and turquoise waters, El Nido offers some of the most breathtaking island-hopping tours in the Philippines. The popular tours, often labeled A, B, C, and D, take visitors to various islands, lagoons, and beaches. Highlights include:

• Big and Small Lagoons: These stunning lagoons are surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and offer perfect spots for kayaking and snorkeling.

• Secret Lagoon: Accessible through a small hole in the rock, this hidden gem is a secluded spot with tranquil waters.

• Seven Commandos Beach: A beautiful white-sand beach perfect for relaxing and swimming.

• Shimizu Island: Known for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, making it an excellent snorkeling spot.

Coron: Renowned for its clear lakes and World War II shipwrecks, Coron offers unique island-hopping experiences. Key attractions include:

• Kayangan Lake: Often dubbed the cleanest lake in Asia, Kayangan Lake is surrounded by lush greenery and offers stunning views and crystal-clear waters.

• Twin Lagoon: These connected lagoons are famous for their stunning turquoise waters and unique experience of swimming through a rock passage at low tide.

• Siete Pecados: A popular snorkeling site with colorful coral gardens and abundant marine life.

• Skeleton Wreck: A shallow shipwreck that’s great for beginner divers and snorkelers.
  

Photo by Cris Tagupa | Source: www.unsplash.com

2. Cebu: The Queen City of the South

Cebu, known as the Queen City of the South, is not only a historical hub but also a gateway to some of the best island-hopping experiences in the Philippines. Key spots include Moalboal and the nearby islands of Mactan and Malapascua.

Moalboal: Famous for its sardine run and diverse marine life, Moalboal is a diver’s paradise. Island hopping tours typically include:

• Pescador Island: Known for its vibrant coral reefs and the chance to see turtles, dolphins, and the famous sardine run.

• Turtle Point: A popular snorkeling site where sea turtles are commonly spotted.

• Basdaku White Beach: A beautiful beach with white sand and clear waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

Mactan Island: Just a short drive from Cebu City, Mactan offers a range of island-hopping tours to nearby islets. Popular destinations include:

• Hilutungan Island: A marine sanctuary with excellent snorkeling opportunities to see a variety of fish and corals.

• Nalusuan Island: Known for its clear waters and rich marine life, ideal for snorkeling and diving.

• Caohagan Island: A small island with a picturesque beach and a local community, offering a glimpse of island life.

Malapascua Island: Famous for its thresher sharks, Malapascua also offers great island-hopping opportunities. Key spots include:

• Monad Shoal: The only place in the world where divers can reliably see thresher sharks.

• Gato Island: A popular diving site with underwater tunnels, caves, and a variety of marine life.

• Kalanggaman Island: A stunning sandbar island with powdery white sand and clear waters, perfect for a day trip.

3. Bohol: The Jewel of the Philippines

Bohol, an island province in the Central Visayas region, is known for its natural wonders and diverse attractions. Island hopping in Bohol often includes visits to Panglao Island and the nearby Balicasag and Virgin Islands.

Panglao Island: Connected to Bohol by bridges, Panglao is a popular base for island-hopping tours. Highlights include:

• Balicasag Island: A marine sanctuary with some of the best diving and snorkeling spots in the Philippines. Visitors can see a wide variety of fish, corals, and sea turtles.

• Virgin Island: Known for its stunning sandbar that emerges during low tide, offering a picturesque spot for swimming and relaxing.

• Dumaluan Beach: A beautiful white-sand beach with clear waters, ideal for swimming and sunbathing.

Pamilacan Island: Located off the coast of Bohol, Pamilacan is known for its dolphin and whale watching tours. The island also offers beautiful beaches and great snorkeling opportunities.

Cabilao Island: A lesser-known destination, Cabilao Island offers pristine beaches, excellent diving sites, and a tranquil atmosphere, making it perfect for a peaceful getaway.

Photo by Denys Nevozhai | Source: www.unsplash.com

4. Siargao: The Surfing Capital

Siargao, often referred to as the surfing capital of the Philippines, is also a fantastic destination for island hopping. Known for its laid-back vibe and stunning natural beauty, Siargao offers several nearby islands worth exploring.

Naked Island: A small, uninhabited sandbar island with no vegetation, Naked Island is perfect for swimming and sunbathing in a pristine setting.

Daku Island: The largest of the three popular islands near Siargao, Daku Island is known for its beautiful white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and fresh seafood.

Guyam Island: A tiny, picturesque island with a cluster of palm trees and a stunning beach, ideal for a relaxing day trip.

Sugba Lagoon: Located on the nearby island of Caob, Sugba Lagoon is a serene spot surrounded by lush mangroves and limestone cliffs. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming in the clear waters.

5. The Visayas: A Diverse Archipelago

The Visayas region, comprising several islands and provinces, offers numerous opportunities for island hopping. Some of the best destinations include Boracay, Negros, and Siquijor.

Boracay: Known for its powdery white sand and vibrant nightlife, Boracay also offers island-hopping tours to nearby spots like Crocodile Island, Crystal Cove Island, and Puka Beach.

Negros: The twin provinces of Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental offer diverse attractions. Popular island-hopping destinations include Apo Island, known for its turtle sanctuary and excellent diving spots, and the Manjuyod Sandbar, often dubbed the "Maldives of the Philippines."

Siquijor: Known for its mystical reputation and natural beauty, Siquijor offers serene beaches, waterfalls, and diving spots. Island hopping tours often include visits to nearby islands like Apo Island and Balicasag Island.

Photo by Johann Ocampo | Source: www.unsplash.com

Conclusion

Island hopping in the Philippines is a magical experience that showcases the country’s incredible natural beauty, diverse marine life, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you're exploring the limestone cliffs of Palawan, diving in the vibrant waters of Cebu, or relaxing on the pristine beaches of Siargao, each destination offers its unique charm and adventure. For travelers seeking a tropical paradise with endless opportunities for exploration, the Philippines is a destination that promises unforgettable memories and breathtaking landscapes.