The Philippines is 7,641 islands. Nobody has seen them all. Nobody could. What you can do is choose a slice — and because transportation between islands is genuinely chaotic, choosing the right slice matters. This guide cuts through the archipelago’s complexity to focus on the places that are actually worth the logistical headache.
The Three Worth-It Destinations
Palawan (El Nido + Coron) Palawan is consistently ranked among the world’s most beautiful islands. Two main hubs:
- El Nido: Lagoon-filled limestone karsts, island hopping Tours A-D, more developed tourist infrastructure
- Coron: Shipwreck diving, Kayangan Lake, less crowded than El Nido but fewer amenities
Boracay White Beach reopened after the environmental cleanup of 2018-2019. The island is cleaner than it’s been in years, but it has lost some of its wild charm. Best for: beach lovers, nightlife seekers, first-time Philippines visitors.
Cebu + Bohol
- Cebu City: jumping off point, Magellan Cross, lechon (roast suckling pig)
- Bohol: Chocolate Hills, tarsier sanctuary, Panglao Island beaches
- Oslob: Swim with whale sharks (controversial but accessible)
El Nido Island Hopping Tours
El Nido has four main island hopping circuits, each about a full day:
Tour A (Most Popular): Large and Small Lagoons, Shimizu Island, 7 Commando Beach — limestone lagoons and snorkeling. Approximately $50-70/person including lunch.
Tour B: Snake Island, Cudugnon Cave, Pinagbuyutan Island — more varied terrain.
Tour C: Matinloc Shrine, Secret Beach, Star Beach — fewer crowds, more snorkeling.
Tour D: Ipil Beach, Marimegmeg Beach, Las Cabañas — beach-focused.
Book through Klook — El Nido tours are 10-20% cheaper than booking through hotels or on the beach, and you get a guaranteed seat.
Coron: Shipwreck Diving Paradise
Coron has 12 Japanese WWII shipwrecks from 1944, making it one of the best wreck diving destinations in Asia. Non-divers can explore Kayangan Lake (the most photographed lake in the Philippines) and the Twin Peaks coral gardens.
Diving costs:
- Discover Scuba Dive (first-timers): $80-120
- Certified fun dives: $50-80/dive
- Wreck dives typically require advanced certification due to depth and currents
Book Coron diving tours through Tiqets or Klook.
Philippines Ferry System: How Not to Lose Your Mind
The Philippines has no bridge connecting its major islands — you’ll take ferries. Here’s the reality:
2GO Travel: The main inter-island ferry company. Booking system works but is clunky. Book online at 2gotravel.ph or through agents.
Fast Craft vs Ro-Pax: Fast craft is faster (5-6 hours Manila to Palawan vs 12+ hours by slow ferry) but significantly more expensive. For Manila to Puerto Princesa (Palawan), fast craft is worth it.
Key Routes:
- Manila → Puerto Princesa (Palawan): Fast craft 5-6 hours, approximately $50-70
- Puerto Princesa → El Nido: Van or minibus, 5-6 hours, approximately $15-25
- Cebu → Bohol (Oslob): Oceanjet fast ferry, 2 hours, approximately $25-35
Warning: Ferry schedules change frequently. Build buffer days into your itinerary. Weather can cancel ferries, especially in typhoon season (October-November).
Getting Around: Transportation
Within islands:
- Tricycles (motorbike with sidecar): The standard. Negotiate price before riding. R20-80 for most trips.
- Motorbike rental: R400-800/day in tourist areas. You need an international driving permit or local license. Road conditions vary wildly.
- Van/Jeepney: The local bus. Cheaper but slower.
Book airport and resort transfers in advance through Welcome Pickups — available at major Philippines airports including Manila, Cebu, and Puerto Princesa.
Internet and SIM Cards
The Philippines has decent 4G coverage in cities and tourist areas, but connectivity drops significantly on smaller islands and at sea.
Airalo eSIM for Philippines: 5GB for $15, 30-day validity. Globe and Smart are the two main carriers — Globe has slightly better coverage in tourist areas, Smart is better in remote regions.
Budget Reference (10 Days Philippines / 2 People)
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Flights (domestic) | $150-400/person |
| Inter-island ferries | $50-150/person |
| Accommodation (9 nights, beach resorts) | $50-150/night |
| Island hopping tours (4-5 days) | $50-80/person/day |
| Food | $15-35/person/day |
| Diving (3-4 dives) | $150-350/person |
| Transfers | $10-30/trip |
| Estimated Total | $2,500-4,500/2 people |
Practical Tips
- Typhoon season: June-October. Palawan is relatively sheltered. Check weather before island-hopping legs.
- Peak season: December-May. Book El Nido tours and accommodations 2-3 weeks ahead.
- ATM withdrawals: Use BDO or BPI ATMs — global card-friendly.手续费: R200 ($3-4) per withdrawal plus your bank’s foreign transaction fee.
- Visa: Most nationalities get 30 days visa-free on arrival. Extendable to 59 days at immigration offices.
- Drinking water: Stick to bottled or filtered water. Ice in drinks is usually fine.
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