The highlights of my 1 month trip to The Philippines
Join me as I recap the unforgettable highlights of my one-month journey through the Philippines. From the vibrant party life and thrilling surf in Siargao to the crystal-clear waters of El Nido, each destination offered a unique blend of beauty, adventure, and cultural richness. Whether I was exploring the bustling streets of Manila or snorkelling alongside the gentle dugongs in Coron, every moment was a discovery of new sights, sounds, and flavours. Follow along to experience the magic of the Philippines through my eyes!
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Although not the most efficient route, I modified my initial plans because I was adamant about experiencing snorkelling with whale sharks, which is best and most ethically conducted in Padre Burgos.
Coron
Nestled in the stunning archipelago of Palawan, Philippines, Coron is a paradise known for its dramatic landscapes and rich marine life. During a recent three-night stay, I discovered that snorkelling with the elusive dugongs was the highlight of my visit. Dugongs, often called "sea cows," are gentle marine mammals that graze on underwater grasses. Coron's underwater world is vibrant, with coral reefs bustling with diverse marine life. Each snorkelling spot offered a new wonder, from colourful fish to sleek reef sharks. On land, the adventures continued with treks to hidden waterfalls and relaxing hot springs.
Where I Stayed in Coron BAMBAM Hostel Coron
-> Find everything I did in Coron on Stippl
Expedition Coron to El Nido
I recently embarked on an unforgettable four-day boat tour with Big Dream Boatman, journeying from Coron to El Nido. It was an incredible experience, not just because of the breathtaking spots we visited, but also because of the amazing group of people I met along the way—the best group one could hope for on such an adventure!
Day 1
Our adventure began with a visit to Siete Pecados, renowned for its vibrant coral reefs perfect for snorkelling. Next, we headed to Kayangan Lake, celebrated as one of the cleanest and clearest freshwater lakes in the Philippines. The scenic beauty was absolutely surreal. We then explored the enchanting Twin Lagoon, swimming through its hidden waters nestled between majestic limestone cliffs. As the sun began to set, we arrived at our overnight stop—Coco Beach. This spot was a true paradise, its pristine beach flanked by lush greenery made it a perfect end to a thrilling day. We stayed the night here, under the stars, sharing stories and laughs, truly connecting with each other in this beautiful setting. This was just the beginning of our journey from Coron to El Nido, and already, it promised to be an adventure of a lifetime.
Day 2
On the second day of our journey from Coron to El Nido with Big Dream Boatman, we started with a visit to the serene Ditaytayan Sandbar, perfect for leisurely strolls along its pristine stretch of sand. Next, we relaxed at the beautiful Araw Beach, enjoying the sun and a picnic lunch. In the afternoon, we explored the vibrant Iponan Coral Reef, a snorkeler's paradise teeming with colourful marine life. Our day ended at New Balenben Basecamp, a cosy spot where we shared meals and stories under the stars, deepening our connections in this beautiful, secluded setting.
Day 3
Our third day with Big Dream Boatman was a whirlwind of excitement and cultural immersion. We began with an unforgettable encounter at the Turtle Spot, swimming alongside these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
Afterwards, we explored Bulanwit Local Village, connecting with the welcoming locals and experiencing their way of life. Then, we ventured to Cobra Island and Cagdanad Island for more beach bliss and snorkeling adventures.
As the sun set, we arrived at Linapacan Tourist Camp, where we enjoyed a relaxing evening capped off with lively karaoke sessions under the stars. It was the perfect end to an extraordinary day of exploration and camaraderie.
Day 4
On the final day of our four-day adventure, we savored the beauty of Nacpan Beach, indulging in fresh coconuts as we basked in the sun. Before heading to the harbor, we made a memorable stop at Cadlao Beach, its pristine shores adding a perfect final touch to our journey.
El Nido
In El Nido, three days were spent soaking up the sun at La Plage and enjoying mesmerising sunsets at Las Cabanas. Despite the picturesque landscapes, I found myself not entirely captivated by El Nido. While the beaches were beautiful and the sunsets breathtaking, something about the town didn't quite resonate with me. Perhaps it was the bustling tourist scene or the commercialised atmosphere, but my experience left me feeling somewhat underwhelmed. Nevertheless, the memories of lazy beach days and stunning sunsets will remain cherished highlights of my time in El Nido.
Where I Stayed in El Nido Outpost Beach Hostel
Check out my recommendations for El Nido on Stippl
Port Barton
Port Barton stole my heart completely. Unlike the bustling tourist scene of El Nido, it offered a more laid-back vibe that I adored. The charming village was dotted with cute restaurants, but Barton Bistro stole the show with its colourful beanbags—ideal for watching the sunset. If you're in the mood for a party, CocoRico is the place to be, although I'd suggest finding accommodation elsewhere for the night. Yet, what truly made Port Barton unforgettable were the people I met. I highly recommend visiting White Beach and Coconut Beach for a slice of paradise away from the crowds.
Where I Stayed in Port Barton Marianne Port Barton
Check out my favorite spots in Port Barton on Stippl
Journey to Padre Burgos.
The journey from Port Barton to Padre Burgos felt like an eternity. It began with a bus ride to Puerto Princesa, followed by a gruelling 16-hour odyssey involving a flight to Manila, another flight to Tacloban City, and finally, a 5.5-hour bus journey to Maasin City. From there, I hopped on a local bus for another hour to reach Peters Dive School, where I spent three nights. Despite the long trek, the destination was well worth it—I had the incredible opportunity to spot whale sharks and scuba dive alongside massive turtles, making every minute of the journey worthwhile.
Padre Burgos
Scuba diving in Padre Burgos was an unparalleled experience, offering a glimpse into the underwater wonders of this pristine region. At Peters Dive School, I had the privilege of exploring the vibrant coral reefs teeming with life, from colorful fish to graceful sea turtles.
Where I Stayed in Padre Burgos Peters Dive Resort Don't forget to pre-book your Whale Shark Experience.
However, the true highlight of my diving adventures was encountering the majestic whale sharks. These gentle giants, the largest fish in the ocean, are truly awe-inspiring to behold. Swimming alongside these magnificent creatures was an unforgettable experience, one that left me humbled by the sheer beauty and power of the natural world.
Padre Burgos proved to be a haven for marine enthusiasts like myself, offering not only thrilling diving opportunities but also a chance to connect with the incredible marine life that calls these waters home. It's a destination that will forever hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of the profound beauty and diversity of our oceans.
Siargao
Siargao is a vibrant island paradise that captured my heart from the moment I arrived. Known for its lively party scene and delectable restaurants, the island offered endless opportunities for fun and indulgence. What made my experience truly special was reuniting with friends from the Expedition and sharing unforgettable moments together.
The atmosphere in Siargao reminded me of Bali in its heyday—a perfect blend of laid-back vibes and lively energy. Whether dancing the night away at beach parties or indulging in sumptuous meals at local eateries, every moment on the island felt like a celebration of life.
Where I Stayed in Siargao Bajala Hostel
Siquijor
Exploring Siquijor feels like stepping into a world of legends and folklore, with its centuries-old churches, mystical caves, and healing springs. The island's reputation as a place of magic and mysticism adds an intriguing allure to its already captivating landscape.
Beyond its mystical appeal, Siquijor boasts stunning white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and diving. Whether you're seeking adventure or simply looking to unwind in paradise, Siquijor has something for everyone.
With its serene ambiance and untouched natural beauty, Siquijor is a destination that invites visitors to slow down, connect with nature, and immerse themselves in the island's mystical allure.
Where I Stayed in Siquijor Wonderland
Find my favorite things to do In Siquijor on Stippl!
Moalboal
Moalboal marked the end of my journey—a lovely but noticeably more touristy spot compared to the quieter destinations I had visited earlier. Unfortunately, I didn't get to explore much due to not feeling well. However, I'd highly recommend renting a bike and taking a leisurely ride around the area. There are plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered off the beaten path.
One activity not to miss in Moalboal is signing up for a canyoneering trip. It's an exhilarating experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region while exploring its stunning landscapes and waterways. Even though I missed out on this adventure, I've heard nothing but rave reviews from fellow travellers. So, if you find yourself in Moalboal, be sure to add canyoneering to your itinerary for an unforgettable experience.
Where I Stayed in Moalboal Pig Dive Hostel
