10 Best Spots for Family Vacations in the Philippines

July 6, 2022 London

With more than 7,600 islands and 10 Best Spots for Family Vacations in the Philippines, there’s never a shortage of amazing places around this sun-soaked archipelago. Each destination welcomes you with its rich culture, stunning sights, one-of-a-kind hospitality, and delicious cuisine that will surely make you want to come back for more. A family vacation in the Philippines is definitely more fun — and these Philippine destinations will prove that!

Bohol

The island province of Bohol is home to many natural wonders that will leave you in awe. For starters, the spectacular Chocolate Hills are best seen during the dry season around November to May. During this time, the hills turn a rich, chocolatey hue. The rainy season is just as beautiful. The hills become a lush, bright green landscape that will take your breath away.

Beaches may be far and many around the Philippines, but few evoke as much serenity as the ones found in Bohol. The most famous is Alona Beach on Panglao Island. 10 Best Spots for Family Vacations in the Philippines.

Make the most of the moment and enjoy the beach with fewer people around while enjoying much-needed family bonding! Here, you can go kayaking and jet-skiing. Why not destress on a yacht while enjoying the sights onboard?

Meanwhile Loboc River, despite being a popular Bohol attraction, is one of the cleanest rivers in the country. Enjoy a scrumptious lunch at the Floating Restaurant, which comes with a cultural show. It’ll make you feel like you’re attending a real Filipino fiesta! For now, it’s best to forgo kamayan (a common local practice where you eat with your bare hands) and use utensils that have been thoroughly cleaned. Remember, whip out those disinfectants before your first bite.

Up for something a bit more exciting? We dare you to cross Sipatan Hanging Bridge — while looking down at the Sevilla River! Also, don’t forget to meet some of the island’s local fauna.

Bohol is one of the few places in the world where you can find tarsiers. Get to meet the world’s smallest primates at the Tarsier Conservation Area. (Just remind your kids not to use flash photography when taking pictures of these critters!)

Meanwhile, at Habitat Butterflies Conservation Center, you can observe hundreds of butterfly species fluttering around and snap that Instagram-worthy photo.

Baguio

Yearning for the cool weather and pine-scented air of the highlands? Head north to Baguio, A.K.A. The City of Pines. Beyond the beaches and tropical destinations, Baguio offers a different kind of relaxation for your family vacation in the Philippines.

Oh, and in case you haven’t heard — this city has been praised for its impressive contact tracing methods! So, make sure to follow local protocols accordingly. 10 Best Spots for Family Vacations in the Philippines.

Start off with downtown Baguio. At Burnham Park, you can ride a bike, row around the lagoon on a swan-shaped boat, or take a stroll around the lush gardens. You’ll see why it’s one of the most popular parks in the country!

A few minutes’ drives away is The Mansion, the official summer residence of the Philippine president. Architecture buffs will surely be impressed by its elegant Spanish Colonial Revival style. In between exploring, make sure to drop by a Baguio café or 10 — a cup of native hot chocolate (tsokolate de batirol) is a must! If you can, bring your own mug or tumbler as an extra safety (and pro-environment!) measure.

Another crowd favorite among locals and tourists alike is Camp John Hay, a former military resort turned mixed-use development. There’s quite a lot to do here, like playing mini-golf, jogging/hiking around the trails, ziplining through the woods, or having a picnic! Opt to stay at The Manor Hotel, where you’ll be welcomed by cozy cabin-style rooms.

Boracay

Of course, we have one of the most popular Philippine destinations: Boracay.

There are many reasons why this chill paradise is a hit with travelers of all ages! Imagine: Your kids could spend the whole day frolicking around White Beach while you sunbathe and take in the view. No-fuss, no hassle, no babysitter required! Just remember to teach your kids about social distancing, too.

True to its name, Boracay’s powder-like shores are especially tempting. For some water-filled fun, take your pick among the many watersports you have to try when borders reopen: from parasailing to (socially distanced) banana boat rides and even mermaid swimming. That’s not to say on-land activities pale in comparison. On the contrary, they’re just as exciting! Hop aboard an ATV and explore the island, including its highest peak: Mount Luho. Want stunning views of the sea? Take the zipline and look out for some colorful paraws (sailboats) sailing nearby.

Cebu

Welcome to Cebu, where you’ll find options, options, and more options! Wherever you go, there’s always something fun to see and experience here for a fun family vacation in the Philippines. Beaches, gardens, city life, historic sites, art, food — you name it, they have it!

Cebu City is the oldest city in the country, so make sure to visit the historical sites dating back to the Spanish Colonial Era. There’s Fort San Pedro, Magellan’s Cross, and Casa Gorordo Museum. 10 Best Spots for Family Vacations in the Philippines.

Up for a more modern adventure? Try out the Crown Regency’s Edge Coaster, where you’ll walk along a glass floor as you circle the perimeter of the 38th floor! We recommend visiting these downtown attractions early in the day to avoid crowds, as well as be the first in line since most places will have reduced carrying capacity to protect guests’ safety.

Iloilo

Aside from being called the Heart of the Philippines because of its geographical location, the capital of Iloilo is also fondly nicknamed the City of Love. True enough, few Philippine destinations embody romance and beauty the way Iloilo does!

Its heritage mansions take you back to the early 1900s: the height of the city’s grandeur. There is plenty to add to your list — from the palatial Lopez Mansion to the manors-turned-modern establishments along Calle Real. In between exploring, make sure to try out local dishes like La Paz batchoy, daraag (charcoal-roasted native chicken), and pancit Molo! There are a handful of restaurants and eateries that offer these in the city, so make sure to visit the ones with adequate health and safety protocols.

For further cultural immersion, visit the centuries-old Molo Church, a Catholic church made of white coral rock. Right across from it is Molo Plaza, where you’ll find statues of Greek deities. Downtown Iloilo has several museums that your kids will enjoy — like the Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art. There’s also the Western Visayas Regional Museum, a branch of the National Museum that’s housed inside a former state-of-the-art prison. How cool is that?

Despite having a handful of must-see attractions, Iloilo City has managed to retain its steady-paced environment. It’s also a great place to bike around, which has now become highly recommended as it allows safe social distancing while exploring!

Camiguin

Camiguin is an enchanting pearl-shaped island with seven volcanoes, hence the moniker Island Born of Fire. It might be one of the smallest provinces, but its stunning attractions are far and many. Nonetheless, since it’s one of the more underrated Philippine destinations, physical distancing here is definitely easier.

Like most islands with volcanoes, you can expect a handful of hot springs. The most famous one is Ardent Hot Spring, and its natural mineral water comes from the equally famous Mount Hibok-Hibok. On the other side of the island lies Santo Niño Cold Spring, a swimming hole in the middle of the jungle. Meanwhile, the 250-feet-high Katibawasan Falls cascade from the boulders of Mount Timpoong. No hike is needed — so a dip in its icy waters is easily at hand.

Speaking of swimming, there’s more of that around Camiguin. There’s White Island, an immaculately white sand bar whose shape varies depending on the tide. Here you can enjoy front-row seats to breathtaking views of the volcanoes and mountains lining the sea. In Mantigue Island, your kids can enjoy riding a glass-bottom boat for a close-up view of marine life. You can see really huge clams up close at the Kabila Giant Clam Conservatory; they look unreal!

Samal Island

With its captivating and unspoiled beauty, it’s no wonder Samal Island in Davao is often called the Island Garden City. It’s also the largest resort city in the Philippines! 10 Best Spots for Family Vacations in the Philippines.

Before anything else though, make sure to remind your family about proper mask-wearing all throughout your stay. If it’s a medical mask, wear it the proper way; if it’s a cloth mask, bring some filters. Don’t forget to dispose of these properly, too!

Have a luxurious time at the world-famous Pearl Farm Beach Resort. Stay at one of their overwater villas, which are designed with native materials. Looking for something more adrenaline-pumping? Head over to Maxima Aqua Fun, where they have a 40-meter water slide that sends you straight to the deep sea! (Don’t worry, there’ll be life vests for you and your kids.)

Another must-do in Samal Island is island hopping and exploring over 50 beach resorts. Visit premier diving sites and snorkeling destinations Talikud Island, Isla Reta, Coral Garden, and Kaputian Beach. There’s also the Vanishing Island, a protected marine reserve that can only be seen during low tide, as its name implies. Surely, this vacation in the Philippines is one that you won’t forget.

Albay

Here’s the first thing you need to know about the Province of Albay: it’s home to the Philippines’ Perfect Cone, Mayon Volcano. Situated in the Bicol Region, it’s dubbed by many as the most perfectly shaped volcano in the world.

If you’re arriving from the airport, make a beeline for Legazpi Boulevard. This coastal road is especially lovely at sunrise, paired with a view of Mayon Volcano and the glistening gulf. Afterward, head to Cagsawa Ruins Park, which is arguably the most iconic Albay tourist spot. There, you’ll find the Cagsawa Church tower; its lower part got buried in lava when the volcano erupted in 1814.

Want a closer look at this natural wonder? Make your way to Mayon Volcano National Park. You can either ride an ATV or jeep to explore the landscape or go hiking at the volcano base. Just make sure to check the travel advisory prior to your trip — it is an active volcano, after all!

There’s also Ligñon Hill Nature Park, if you’re up for more sporty activities like zip-lining, rappelling, and crossing a hanging bridge. All these while enjoying panoramic views of the volcano, of course!

Puerto Princesa

Welcome to Puerto Princesa, the capital of the famed Palawan archipelago! While most tourists make a beeline northwards to El Nido or Coron, make sure to stop by here, especially if it’s your first visit.

First stop: the famous Puerto Princesa Underground River. Hop aboard a paddle boat that will take you inside this UNESCO World Heritage site. For a river adventure at night, you can go on a cruise along the Iwahig River. Here, you’ll find a captivating display of fireflies glowing around the mangroves on the riverbank. Don’t forget to apply DEET-free mosquito repellant, which keeps mosquitoes away without harming other creatures you may encounter.

Meanwhile, in downtown Puerto Princesa, the streets are filled with homegrown restaurants offering local cuisine that will leave you asking for more! Aside from freshly caught and grilled seafood, how about trying some exotic dishes during your family vacation in the Philippines? We recommend crocodile sisig and tamilok (a type of mollusk living inside mangrove trees). Your tastebuds will thank you!

El Nido

Calling El Nido a ‘tropical paradise’ is an understatement. It’s hard to find any other place that comes close to its exuberance and splendor! Once you get there, you’ll see why it’s among the top picks for a fun vacation in the Philippines.

Number one on your Palawan bucket list should definitely be island-hopping around Bacuit Archipelago: home to 45 limestone islands and countless white-sand beaches, lagoons, and coves. You can either take four standardized tours per day or charter your own boat (~US$85 or SG$117) and visit your choice spots. We recommend the latter to ensure full-on physical distancing.

Indeed, the Philippines is brimming with destinations that are perfect for family vacations. Be part of the fun and explore its many different islands, each with its own unique sights and experiences. Top that off with warm hospitality from the locals, great cuisine, and fascinating cultures — really, what more can you ask for?

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