Island Hopping in the Philippines: A Guide to Unspoilt Islands and Secret Lagoons
Island Hopping in the Philippines: A Guide to Unspoilt Islands and Secret Lagoons
The Philippines is a country of endless islands, lesser-known coves, and vibrant cultures waiting to be discovered.
From glittering turquoise lagoons and coral-fringed marine sanctuaries to lush mountains and colourful local markets, this archipelago offers a wealth of unique experiences for travellers seeking something beyond the usual. Each island has its own story, its own character, and its own secret corners just waiting to be explored.
For Noemi, our Senior Product Executive and Filipino travel expert, these untouched gems are more than just destinations; they are the heart of the country’s magic. She has journeyed far beyond the well-trodden routes, island-hopping through Palawan’s coves, exploring Cebu’s rich traditions, and venturing into the quieter corners of the Visayas.
Now, she’s excited to share her most recent journey, offering an insider’s view of the Philippines’ hidden gems and why this remarkable destination continues to capture her attention.
Discovering the Hidden Gems of the Philippines
El Nido
"We arrived in the Philippines, a country of remote islands and extraordinary landscapes, just weeks after a 6.9-magnitude earthquake hit Cebu and two powerful typhoons swept through the Visayas region.
I admit I was anxious – would it be right to enjoy our holiday while locals might be recovering? We almost cancelled our trip. But I reached out to friends working in the hotel industry and tourism in the Philippines, and they all told me the same thing: this is the time to visit, to help keep people employed and spirits up. Bolstered by their advice (and the Department of Tourism’s calls to keep supporting local communities), I decided not to cancel.
We arrived determined to travel responsibly and ended up having an amazing adventure!"
Dumaguete and Apo Island: Coastal Secrets of Negros
Atmosphere Resorts & Spa
"Our first stop was Dumaguete on Negros Island, one of the Philippines’ lesser-known coastal gems, where we checked in at Atmosphere Resorts & Spa, one of my favourite eco-luxury properties. The resort is perched between mountains and the ocean. The staff welcomed me back with smiles; they remembered me from visiting last year."
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Noemi and Stef at Pulang Bato Waterfall
"The next day, we hiked to two nearby waterfalls – perfect tropical swimming holes, especially after the rigorous hike. We also took a boat to Apo Island, a small but spectacular marine sanctuary just under an hour from the resort. As soon as I slipped into the warm water, I was greeted by gentle sea turtles gliding among the colourful coral."
- Enjoy your own stay at Atmosphere Spa & Resort, where you can enjoy boutique luxury with reef diving, tranquil spa days, and mountain views.
Cultural Experiences in Cebu: Heritage, Crafts, and Music
Eskroma stick fighting
"In Cebu, we immersed ourselves in the island’s rich heritage and unique local crafts.
Cebu proved to be far more than just a gateway island – it offered some of the most meaningful cultural experiences of our trip. First, we visited an Eskrima (Arnis) workshop – Eskrima being the Philippines’ national martial art of stick fighting. Under the guidance of a master instructor, we tried our hand at basic stick drills. I felt a rush of pride every time my moves connected (and a lot of laughter when they didn’t!). It was eye-opening to practice a skill that Filipino warriors used for centuries."
Alegre Guitar Factory
"Next, we visited the Alegre Guitar Factory, a third-generation family business in Cebu, famous for producing world-class handmade guitars. Inside the open-air workshop, the smell of sawdust mingled with the gentle strum of instruments as we watched artisans carve bodies from native woods, glue necks by hand, and polish each piece with meticulous care.
I even tried my hand at a ukulele and ended up buying one. There’s something undeniably soulful about a hand-crafted instrument and seeing the pride of the makers reminded me how deeply Cebu’s love of music drives this enduring tradition."
- Book our 'Island Odyssey, A Visayan Circuit' tour, and we can arrange these unique experiences for you.
A Taste of Cebu: A Night at Shangri-La Mactan’s Kasadya Show
Shangri-La Mactan, Cebu
"One of our evenings was spent at Shangri-La Mactan, where we joined a Kasadya Night buffet and show. “Kasadya” means merriment in Cebuano, and true to its name the event was an unforgettable feast of food and culture.
We filled our plates with Filipino specialities – fresh kinilaw (ceviche), sikwate (chocolate drink), lechon (roast pork) and even dinuguan (pork blood stew) – some dishes I hadn’t had in years. All the while, an enthralling cultural show played out on stage. Tinikling dancers clicked bamboo poles to lively music, a percussion group played folk beats, and there were costumed dances from Luzon down to Mindanao."
Tuna Kinilaw
"The energy was electric and joyful. It felt wonderful to sit with fellow travellers, clapping and tapping our feet to the rhythm, surrounded by so many vibrant flavours."
- Experience a stay at Shangri-La Mactan, where you can enjoy sunrise views, resort activities, and refined island living.
El Nido, Palawan: The Last Frontier of Island Paradise
El Nido
"Our final destination was El Nido in Palawan, often considered one of the world’s most beautiful island escapes and frequently called the last frontier of the Philippines.
We stayed at Pangulasian Island Resort, aptly nicknamed “Island of the Sun,” nestled in the azure waters of Bacuit Bay. The resort itself is a five-star eco-haven, but what took my breath away was the scenery. Pangulasian Island boasts a crystal-clear turquoise lagoon with a vibrant house reef right at its tip. Every morning, we could step into the warm water straight from the beach and snorkel among corals and clownfish."
Kayaking in Big Lagoon
"We also booked a private island-hopping tour. A small boat whisked us through towering limestone karsts and what felt like one of the Philippines’ last untouched island frontiers, leading us to tucked-away lagoons and sandbars. We snorkelled in crystal-clear waters, explored secret coves and unspoilt beaches, and paddled through the emerald waters of Big Lagoon by kayak, completely immersed in the stunning scenery."
- Book our Palawan Island Adventure to experience your own island-hopping journey.
The Heart of the Philippines: Warmth, Resilience, and Meaningful Travel
Shangri-La Mactan
"More than the luxury resorts or stunning scenery, what I will remember most about this trip is the warmth of the Filipino people. Everyone I met went out of their way to help, treating visitors like family with genuine smiles and heartfelt care. Even after experiencing such devastation back home, they remained upbeat and resilient, embodying an incredible spirit.
From the cultural heart of Cebu to the undiscovered lagoons of Palawan and the quieter corners of the Visayas, this journey showed just how diverse and rewarding a holiday in the Philippines can be."
Noemi and Stef on their El Nido island hopping tour
"Looking back, I’m so grateful we went; travelling there felt meaningful, knowing that our visits to waterfalls, markets, and islands helped support the local economy during recovery. Personally, the kindness and joy of the people uplifted me at every turn, and in the face of adversity, they still find reasons to celebrate life and share their culture. I returned with a refreshed spirit, new friends, and a deep admiration for the Filipino way of life."
Ready to discover the Philippines for yourself?
From secluded lagoons and vibrant culture to luxury island escapes, let our Travel Specialists design your perfect island-hopping adventure. Get in touch today and start planning a journey filled with unforgettable moments, hidden treasures, and meaningful experiences.