Beaches in the Philippines

Located in Southeast Asia, in the western Pacific Ocean, Philippines is a hot and humid country with maximum temperatures going up to 38 degree Celsius. It consists of a group of about 7,107 islands and has an unlimited number of beaches. It has a coastline that is double the length of the coastline of the United States. The locals are friendly and traveling is cheap. One doesn't need to stay in expensive hotels, as there are plenty of downtown hotels available. The country is home to some of the world's best, long, white sand beaches, and here we shall have a look at the must-see ones.

White Beach, Boracay Island
Boracay Island is located on the northwestern tip of Panay, Western Visayas. The island is known for its lovely beaches. The White Beach is 4 kilometer long, and is hailed as one of the finest in the world. It is also the most famous one in the country with its white, calm, crystal clear, warm water. The island is now highly commercialized, with a number of hotels, bars, shopping areas and ATM's. Snorkeling and diving are its other attractions. Traveling on the island is cheap. One can even rent a bike and drive through the whole island. The beach is ideal for people who want to enjoy relaxing, yet, do not want to get away from urban conveniences.

El Nido, Palawan
El Nido has marvelous seascapes and landscapes that are probably the best in the country. Hence, Palawan Island is often referred to as Islands of the Gods. The island is home to a number of tropical birds and is quite famous for its Nido soup available in Chinese restaurants. It also has the Secret Beach which is accessible only by swimming through a narrow hole.

Panglao, Bohol
Although small in size, the island of Panglao has a lot to offer. It is the best for diving and beach holidays. The island is known for its rich biodiversity and has one of the clearest beaches - Alona Beach. Some good sightseeing places include the Chocolate Hills, many huge waterfalls, and the bustling capital city Tagbilaran.

Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte
Located in the northern part of Philippines, Pagudpud is also sometimes called the 'Boracay of North.' It has white sand beaches which are windy, just like those in Hawaii. Because of these mighty waves, wave surfing is a popular sport here. Maira-ira Beach is secluded, and offers blue water and breathtaking views. It is secluded and gets only a few visitors.

Siargao Island
Located in the province of Surigao del Norte, Siargao Island is known for its curling high waves, that sometimes rise even 9 to 12 feet high. The place is best suited for surfing and is host to the surfing competition, the Siargao Cup. People can also enjoy exploring the island's tunnels and caves.

Malapascua Island, Cebu
A few years back, Malapascua Island, which lies north of Cebu, was unheard of. It was not even on the municipal map. Today, it is the most preferred beach destination of the country. Diving is the best bet here as you get to see caves, undersea biodiversity, and if lucky, even sharks. The only drawback of the island is the limited variety of food available. It is a small island and, you can, if you wish, cover the whole island walking.

Philippines is without doubt, blessed with a variety of marine biodiversity, long white sand beaches, and places with scenic landscapes. With plenty of water sports, soft sand, ocean waves and beach life, it rightly deserves to be called Asia's beach capital.