10 Famous Islands in the Philippines: Beautiful Nature
Last Updated on 4th September 2025 by admin
The Philippines is an archipelagic country consisting of 7,641 islands which is known to have breathtaking natural landscapes and perfect beaches. Most of these numerous islands are remarkable due to the beauty and the charm they possess. The Philippines has it all whether you want to relax, do some water sports or want to enjoy the breathtaking landscapes. However, there are so many islands to visit, where shall you begin? The following are the 10 famous islands in the Philippines, each of them has its very own charm and attractions:
1) Boracay Island
Boracay Island is considered to be one of the most popular and beloved Islands in the Philippines, that is admired because of its whitish sandy beaches and vivid night life. This small island is found in the Western Visayas region and is among the best holiday destinations both locally and internationally. The main beach in the island, called White Beach, is the place to spend time in the sun and go swimming and watching the sunset, whereas Bulabog Beach is enjoyed by adventurers who go windsurfing and kitesurfing.
Outside of the beaches, Boracay is a range of restaurants, bars, and resorts at all prices. Recent environmental reforming has added more attractiveness to the island by increasing its sustainability. Boracay Island is a tropical heaven to visit with impressive experiences of relaxation, partying, or engaging in water sports. Boracay Island is a paradise of relaxation, adventure and entertainment and it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Philippines, where a traveler can have a memorable tropical vacation.
2) Palawan Island
The Palawan Island is commonly referred to as the crown jewel of the country and is the most beautiful islands in the Philippines. A paradise of limestone bluffs, blue lagoons and secret caves, Palawan is a tropical adventure that is impossible to forget. The province is also home to gorgeous sites such as El Nino and Coron, where one can enjoy an island hopping, snorkeling and diving experience amidst the colorful coral reefs.
Visitors who love nature may visit the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Palawan is the land of adventure and calm, with clean beaches, posh hotels and virgin forests. You can go to Palawan Island as a tourist to enjoy the best islands in the Philippines, whether you want to relax or visit the natural wonders and attractions.
3) Siargao Island
Siargao is a surfer and nature lovers paradise and one of the places that should be visited in the Philippines. It is referred to as the surfing capital of the country and it has a popular break named Cloud 9 break which attracts surfers worldwide. In addition to surfing, Siargao has amazing white-sand beaches, crystal-clear lagoons, and beautiful coconut palms landscape that brings a tropical ambience of tranquility. Tourists are motivated to visit the magical Sugba Lagoon, rock pools and hidden caves to have an adventure.
Siargao Island is the ultimate combination of both fun and adventure with its relaxed vibe, boutique resorts, and local restaurants. You can either be chasing waves or just basking in the natural beauty, Siargao will be the best island to get a memorable escape among the best islands in the Philippines.
4) Cebu Island
Cebu Island is considered to be one of the most popular islands in the Philippines that possesses rich history, rich culture and beautiful natural attractions. Cebu is a city situated in Central Visayas and is a perfect combination of urban living and tropical adventures. To glimpse more deeply into the history of Cebu City, visitors can see landmarks like the Magellan Cross, Fort San Pedro and the Basilica Minore del Santo Niino which are evidence of centuries of colonial rule.
Cebu is also known to have ideal Kawasan falls, whale shark visits at Oslob and scenic beauty Malapascua and Moalboal. Having its own international airport, Cebu is an easy and adventurous place to visit, as many of the surrounding islands can be approached through it. Historical landmarks and warm crystal shores, Cebu Island is one of the best islands in the Philippines.
5) Bohol Island
Bohol Island is one of the most famous islands in the Philippines, because it has a combination of both natural marvel and cultural climax. Bohol is also found in the Central Visayas region and is most popularly represented as being the home of the famous Chocolate Hills, a very distinct geological formation that impresses visitors at any given time of the year. There is also the world’s smallest primate the cute tarsier found in conservation sanctuaries in the island.
The Panglao Island which is related to Bohol is popular among the beach lovers due to the powdery white sand and great diving areas. Other attractions include river cruises on the Loboc River, centuries old churches, and local hospitality. No matter what geographic location you are visiting, Bohol Island provides a very diverse and unforgettable travelling experience in the Philippines.
6) Coron Island
Coron Island in the northern part of Palawan is the most beautiful islands in the Philippines, with its dramatic limestone cliffs, crystal clear lakes, and colorful marine life. Another major tourist site is the Kayangan Lake commonly referred to as the cleanest lake in Asia, where karst outcroppings rise high above turquoise waters. Divers worldwide come to Coron to enjoy its beautiful coral reefs, and historic World War II shipwrecks.
The island has hidden lagoons, hot springs, and white-sand beaches that are so beautiful, where people can relax. Be it snorkeling, diving or even just having an eye-popping experience, then Coron Island will be an experience you will never forget. It is a place to visit when the person intends to explore the natural beauty and enjoy thrilling experiences in the most popular islands in the Philippines.
7) Batanes Island
Batanes Island is the northernmost province of the Philippine, and features some majestic scenery, serene landscape and traditional stone houses. Batanes has rolling green hills, dramatic cliffs and stone houses unlike the tropical feel of other islands, a true reflection of the Ivatan culture. Tourists are quite fascinated by the beautiful landscape of Marlboro Hills and the old lighthouses on the sea coast.
Batanes seems to enter a different world with its cool climate and peaceful villages and untouched beauty. It is the ideal place to visit when you want to find peace, explore a culture and take sweeping pictures. Batanes is considered one of the simplest and most authentic islands in the Philippines, which makes the island one of the most memorable places to visit.
8) Mindanao Island
Being the second-largest island in the Philippines, Mindanao Island is a place of a variety of cultures, rich history, and amazing natural phenomena. Mindanao offers a more genuine and adventurous experience compared to the usual tourist spots. Tourists have an opportunity to see the stunning Mount Apo, the highest mountain in Philippines or take a break in the beautiful Samal Island beaches near Davao.
Other natural attractions that make the island popular are the mystical Tinuy-an Falls in Surigao del Sur and the mystical Enchanted River in Hinatuan. The Land of Promise, as the country is often called, Mindanao offers a mixture of green landscapes, colorful celebrations, and friendly hospitality of locals. Mindanao Island is one of the most ideal islands in the Philippines to visit by people who want to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations.
9) Camiguin Island
Camiguin Island is the smallest island in the Philippines but is full of natural wonders, making it one of the most unique islands in the Philippines. The Island Born of Fire is famously called Camiguin, and there are more volcanoes than places. Camiguin is a captivating place with a topography represented by hot springs, waterfalls, and greenery. The White Island sandbar is a must-visit place with panoramic views of Mount Hibok-Hibok and the sea surrounding.
The Sunken Cemetery is also the spot where travelers can learn about the historical events marked with the giant cross coming out of the ocean. Camiguin is a quiet and quaint retreat with its cool beaches, fresh springs and friendly locals. Camiguin Island is a secret of the most beautiful islands in the Philippines to nature and culture lovers.
10) Malapascua Island
Malapascua Island is one of the most popular islands in the Philippines among diving enthusiasts, and it is only a short distance away or off the coast of North Cebu. This is a small tropical island that is famous all over the world because of some unique experiences with thresher sharks that can be spotted anytime of the year within the waters of this island. In addition to diving, Malapascua boasts of spotless white-sand beaches, crystal-clear water, and a relaxed island atmosphere that suits relaxation.
Tourists have the opportunity to snorkel, go island-hopping, or just admire the spectacular sunsets along the beach. Malapascua remains peaceful and less populated, a beautiful tourist attraction destination compared to other popular tourist spots, a great place to enjoy adventure and relaxation simultaneously as a visiting tourist. The Malapascua Island is the real hidden jewel of the Philippines among the people who would want to explore the marine life and rest in a serene environment.
In short, everyone would agree that the Philippines is an oasis of beautiful islands and all of them possess a very specific mix of natural beauty and adventure. Whether it is adventure-thrilling trips or relaxing holidays, these 10 famous islands in the Philippines are sure to be remembered as a great experience in one of the most beautiful scenery on the planet.
