The Philippines' Ultimate Travel Guide for 2025 - 2026
Plan your journey and explore the Philippines with our complete guide.
About the Philippines | Climate and Weather | Tourism in the Philippines | How to Get Here | Must-See Destinations
The Philippines invites you to slow down and embrace island life at its purest. Stretching across thousands of islands, the country offers hidden coves, colorful reefs, and golden sunsets that seem to last forever. Spend your days drifting between quiet beaches, snorkeling over coral gardens, or tasting fresh seafood by the shore. It’s a destination where every journey feels personal, whether you’re exploring with friends, sharing moments with locals, or finding peace in the rhythm of the sea.
Discover more through our local partner Froyows Travel and Freediving, or scroll down to explore the full travel guide for inspiration on your Philippine journey!
About the Philippines
At Boatbookings, we are excited to introduce you to the Philippines, a destination that is steadily gaining recognition among discerning travelers. With 7,641 islands scattered across the Pacific, the Philippines is a tropical playground of white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush green landscapes. From towering volcanoes to dense jungles, every island offers something unique.
Island hopping here is the best way to discover its charm, and a private yacht transforms the experience into something extraordinary. Expect secluded turquoise bays, untouched dive sites, and the freedom to indulge in these islands with privacy and comfort.
Climate and Weather
The Philippines enjoys a warm, tropical climate year-round.
Dry season (November – April): The best time to travel, with cooler breezes in January and February and hotter days between March and May (up to 36°C).
Wet season (May – October): Expect humidity and tropical showers, especially in June and July when typhoons are most likely.
We recommend visiting during the dry months when seas are calmer, visibility is excellent for diving, and yacht charters can make the most of calm anchorages and scenic coastlines.
Tourism in the Philippines
Tourism in the Philippines has grown rapidly, thanks to its pristine islands and friendly atmosphere. Boatbookings is currently expanding partnerships with local charter operators, and there are only a few select yachts capable of cruising these waters. In the near future, we aim to offer a full portfolio of yachts directly based in the Philippines.
However, you can already plan your adventures in the country using the carefully curated and comprehensive travel insights below. Expect island-hopping in serene exotic islands, snorkeling, diving excursions, freediving in crystal-clear waters, and the chance to savor authentic local cuisine. Traveling to the Philippines offers a rare chance to explore untouched natural beauty and experience the Filipinos’ warm hospitality.
How to Get Here
The Philippines is well-connected to major international hubs, making it accessible from many parts of the world.
Manila (Ninoy Aquino International Airport): The country’s main gateway, offering direct flights from North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Australia.
Cebu (Mactan-Cebu International Airport): The recommended hub for visitors, with international connections and frequent regional flights. Cebu is closer to many of the top destinations and serves as the perfect starting point to reach Bohol, Siquijor, Boracay, and other islands.
Regional Airports: Smaller airports in El Nido, Busuanga (Coron), Boracay, and Siargao make it easy to connect directly to the most sought-after islands once in the Philippines.
Must-See Destinations
1. Cebu
Cebu is the beating heart of the central Philippines, offering easy access to some of the country’s most celebrated islands. From the vibrant sardine run in Moalboal to canyoneering at Kawasan Falls in Badian, adventure seekers will never run out of thrills. The island also offers encounters with whale sharks in Oslob, alongside tranquil escapes to Bantayan Island and Malapascua, a diver’s haven for thresher sharks. Cebu’s international airport makes it a convenient entry point, while its harbors provide connections to ferries and yachts heading across the Visayas. Whether you crave adrenaline, culture, or coastal serenity, Cebu delivers it all!
2. Bohol
Just a short ferry or flight from Cebu, Bohol is an island that blends natural wonders with cultural charm and is the first UNESCO Global Geopark in the Philippines. The famous Chocolate Hills form a surreal landscape, while nearby forests are home to the tiny Philippine tarsier, one of the world’s smallest primates. Around Panglao Island and Balicasag, scuba divers and freedivers will find coral gardens teeming with marine life. Inland, waterfalls, rivers, and heritage churches reflect the island’s unique character. Bohol is a paradise for explorers who want to mix water adventures with ecological and cultural experiences.
3. Siquijor Island
Known as the “Island of Fire,” Siquijor carries an air of mystique thanks to its folklore of healing and magic. Its coastline is lined with white sand beaches, while the interior hides stunning waterfalls such as the Cambugahay Falls, perfect for swimming and rope-swinging. Visitors can take part in freediving, snorkeling, and island-hopping, all while enjoying Siquijor’s tranquil pace of life. Accessible by ferry from Cebu or via Dumaguete, the journey is part of the adventure. Siquijor’s unique blend of legend, nature, and charm makes it a captivating stop on any island-hopping itinerary.
4. Boracay
From Cebu, reaching Boracay is easy with a short flight to Caticlan Airport, followed by a quick 15-minute boat transfer to the island. Famed for its iconic White Beach, Boracay captivates visitors with powdery sands, turquoise waters, and breathtaking sunsets. For a more tranquil escape, Puka Beach offers a quieter stretch of shoreline framed by lush greenery and seashell-strewn sand. Active travelers can enjoy kiteboarding and parasailing at Bulabog Beach, or diving adventures just offshore. As night falls, the island comes alive with beach bars, gourmet dining, and cultural fire dance shows, blending relaxation with vibrant energy.
5. El Nido
Tucked away in northern Palawan, El Nido is renowned for its dramatic limestone cliffs rising above turquoise lagoons. This is one of the Philippines’ most photographed destinations, offering secret beaches, cave systems, and vibrant coral reefs. Island-hopping is the main draw, with iconic spots like the Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, and Secret Beach offering unparalleled beauty. Beyond the water, charming coastal villages and eco-resorts add to the experience. With direct flights via AirSwift, El Nido is a must-see for anyone seeking a truly cinematic seascape.
6. Coron
Also in Palawan, Coron is a world-famous diving destination that draws adventurers from across the globe. Its lagoons and lakes, including the Kayangan Lake and the Barracuda Lake, are breathtaking with their mix of fresh and saltwater. Coron is equally renowned for its WWII shipwreck dives, making it one of the most unique underwater experiences in the world. Above the surface, visitors can explore secluded beaches, hot springs, and rugged limestone cliffs. Fly into Busuanga Airport to begin your journey into this natural wonderland.
7. Siargao
Located in Surigao del Norte, Siargao is the Philippines’ laid-back surfing capital and a mecca for ocean lovers. Beyond the famous Cloud 9 surf break, the island offers freediving, lagoon explorations, island-hopping, and paddleboarding. Its palm-fringed roads, lively beach bars, and boutique stays create a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. Island highlights include Sugba Lagoon, Magpupungko tidal pools, and excursions to nearby Daku, Guyam, and Naked Islands. Top it off with a day tour in Sohoton Cove and Corregidor. With flights directly into Sayak Airport (from Cebu), Siargao invites you to immerse yourself in both vibrant island culture and untouched natural beauty.
Our Asia Destinations: Thailand | Myanmar/Burma | Malaysia |Singapore | Indonesia
