If you’re dreaming of island-hopping, hidden lagoons, insane sunsets, and white-sand beaches, the Philippines is a must-visit. We spent 2 weeks exploring Coron, El Nido, Panglao (Bohol), and Cebu—and while things didn’t always go as planned (hello, canceled ferry!), it was an unforgettable adventure.
Who is this itinerary for? 🌍🏝️
✅ Adventure seekers – If you love island-hopping, snorkeling, and exploring stunning landscapes, this itinerary is for you! 🚤🤿
✅ Beach lovers – You’ll visit some of the most beautiful beaches in the Philippines, from Coron’s lagoons to El Nido’s secret coves and Bohol’s white sands. 🏖️🌊
✅ Travelers who enjoy a mix of activities – This trip combines boat tours, jungle adventures, and relaxation, so it’s perfect for those who like variety. 🌿⛵🏞️
✅ Couples & friend groups – The mix of adventure and downtime makes it great for a romantic getaway or a fun trip with friends. 💑👫
✅ First-time visitors to the Philippines – You’ll get a taste of different islands, landscapes, and experiences, making it an amazing introduction to the country. 🇵🇭✨
Who might not enjoy this trip? ❌
🚫 Travelers who want a super luxurious experience – While there are nice resorts, this trip is more about adventure than 5-star pampering. 🏨💎
🚫 People who just want to stay in one place – This itinerary involves flights, boat transfers, and moving around, so it’s not for those who dislike travel days. ✈️⛴️
🚫 Families with very young kids – Coron and El Nido require boat tours and some physical activity, which might not be ideal for small children. 👶⛵
🚫 Foodies looking for a culinary trip – While you’ll find fresh seafood and some great local dishes, the Philippines isn’t as famous for its cuisine as Thailand or Vietnam. 🍜
If you’re looking for breathtaking scenery, adventure, and a mix of exploration and relaxation, this itinerary is perfect for you! 🌴✨
Here’s our complete Philippines travel guide, including our detailed itinerary, hotel reviews, top tours, and essential tips! If you’re planning a trip to the Philippines, bookmark this for later!
🛬 Cebu – Arrival & Before Departure
Cebu is the gateway to the Philippines, an island where modernity meets history. Its bustling streets, golden beaches, and cultural landmarks offer a great introduction to the archipelago.
While we didn’t explore much of the city during our short layover, Cebu is a paradise for those who love both urban excitement and tranquil escapes.
Highlights:
• Kawasan Falls & Canyoneering – A hidden gem, Kawasan Falls plunges into turquoise pools surrounded by lush jungle, a true adventurer’s playground.
• Oslob Whale Sharks – Dive into crystal-clear waters and swim with gentle giants (though we urge you to consider ethical alternatives).
• Mactan Island Hopping – Perfect for a quick beach getaway with clear waters and stunning sandbars.
Things to Know:
• Cebu can be crowded—plan your visits to popular attractions early in the day to avoid the rush.
• The island can be humid and hot, so carry sunscreen and stay hydrated.
Where We Stayed in Cebu:
We stayed at Vivien Hotel for 5 hours on our arrival, as it was close to the airport with free transfers. It was very simple but practical for a quick rest.
🏨 Budget: Vivien Hotel (~$30) – Basic, no frills, but convenient for a layover.
On the way back home, we stayed at Arterra Hotel and Resort, which was nice and relaxing, the perfect place to unwind after busy two weeks.
🏨 Upscale : Arterra Hotel & Resort (~$150) – Beautiful and peaceful, a great way to end the trip.
🌴 Coron (3 Nights) – Private Boat Tour & Hidden Lagoons
We flew from Cebu to Busuanga (Coron) on Philippines Airlines (comfortable, reliable). As part of our tradition to kick off every adventure, we headed straight to Maquinit Hot Springs upon arriving in Coron. Set along the coast and surrounded by lush mangroves, the hot springs provided a tranquil escape. The warm, mineral-rich waters were incredibly soothing, easing the tension from our travels.
While we soaked, we enjoyed the stunning view of the calm sea and towering limestone cliffs in the distance. The springs are unique for their saltwater, which added to the therapeutic experience. The soothing sound of the waves, combined with the warmth of the water, made it the perfect way to relax and prepare for the adventures awaiting us in Coron.
Coron is famous for its crystal-clear waters, dramatic limestone cliffs, and sunken WWII shipwrecks. It’s the perfect spot for adventure-seekers and nature lovers alike.
Highlights of Coron:
• Kayangan Lake – Known as the cleanest lake in the Philippines, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, the water here is so clear it feels like a dream.
• Twin Lagoon – Two beautiful lagoons connected by a small opening, where you can swim through cool, turquoise waters surrounded by jagged cliffs.
• Malcapuya Beach – A secluded paradise island with powder-soft sand and calm waters perfect for relaxation.
• Barracuda Lake – A hidden gem where the mix of cold and warm water creates a surreal swimming experience.
• Wreck Diving & Snorkeling – Explore sunken WWII ships at Tangat Wreck and Dimalanta Island.
• Maquinit Hot Springs –Nestled by the coast, these natural hot springs offered the perfect way to unwind and relax, soaking in the warm mineral-rich waters while enjoying the tranquil surroundings.
Things to Know:
• Weather is unpredictable. Rainy season can affect tours, and boat trips may be canceled at short notice.
• Coron can get crowded, especially at popular spots like Kayangan Lake. Arrive early to beat the crowds or book the private tour.
• Limited nightlife – Coron’s nightlife is quieter than other parts of the Philippines, so it’s best for those seeking relaxation.
Island-Hopping: Private vs. Group Tour
✔️ Private Boat Tour ($80-$200 per boat) – Best choice! Explore Coron’s secret lagoons and beaches at your own pace, without the crowds. Book via hotels, travel agencies in town, or Facebook groups (Philippines Travel Buddies is great!).
✔️ Group Tours ($25-$40 per person) – Cheaper, but crowded & rushed. Book via Klook, GetYourGuide, or local vendors.
Coron felt like stepping onto another planet. Our private boat tour was absolutely amazing—a professional captain, one crew member, and an incredibly knowledgeable tour guide made the experience unforgettable. The boat glided across turquoise waters, passing hidden lagoons, lush islands, and stunning limestone rock formations that seemed to rise from the water itself.
We stopped at secluded spots where we could snorkel in crystal-clear waters, kayak through serene coves, and marvel at the underwater world, where limestone formations stretched beneath the surface.
The beauty of Coron was its rawness, untouched by the crowds, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in nature’s brilliance, all while having the boat and the views entirely to ourselves.
Where We Stayed: Venus Royale Hotel (⭐ 4/5 – Great Value!)
Pros: Clean, affordable, solid location.
Cons: Not beachfront, but great for island-hopping travelers.
Alternative Hotels in Coron:
🏨 Budget: Coron Ecolodge ($40) – Simple but reliable.
🏨 Mid-Range: Two Seasons Coron Bayside ($100) – Stunning views and modern amenities.
🏨 Luxury: Two Seasons Coron Island Resort (~$300+) – Private island paradise!
Cons of Coron:
• Limited Nightlife: Coron is more laid-back, so don’t expect vibrant nightlife.
• Tourist Crowds: During peak seasons, some of the popular spots (like Kayangan Lake) can get crowded.
• Weather Disruptions: During the rainy season, weather can cause interruptions in tours and ferries.
🏝️ El Nido (4 Nights) – Magical Lagoons & Sunset Bars
El Nido is a tropical dream come true—imagine towering limestone cliffs, sparkling turquoise waters, hidden lagoons, and white-sand beaches tucked into secluded coves. We planned to take the ferry from Coron ($50) , but it got canceled due to bad weather, so we booked an AirSwift flight last minute. ($135)
Highlights:
• Big Lagoon – Kayak through the calm waters surrounded by towering limestone cliffs.
• Hidden Beach – A beach tucked behind cliffs, perfect for quiet relaxation.
• Helicopter Island – Great for snorkeling and beach time.
• Sunset Views – The sunset at Corong Corong Beach is one of the best in the Philippines.
Things to Know:
• Tour availability may vary due to weather conditions. Always check the forecast before booking tours.
• El Nido is becoming more popular, which means some of the more famous spots can get quite crowded.
• Accommodations can be expensive, especially during the peak season, so book in advance.
Island Tours: Which to Choose?
There are 4 main island-hopping tours (A, B, C, D)—Tour A & C are the most popular! We also enjoyed Tour D. Keep in mind Tour C is often cancelled due to wear conditions.
📌 Tour A: Explore Big Lagoon, where kayaks glide through emerald waters, and dive into the Secret Lagoon (though we were quite disappointed with this spot as it felt too commercialized), a small opening in towering cliffs that reveals a peaceful cove.
📌 Tour B: A mix of adventure and stunning landscapes. Walk along Snake Island’s winding sandbar, explore the towering Cathedral Cave, and relax on the pristine shores of Pinagbuyutan Island.
📌 Tour C: This is the highlight for snorkeling lovers! Visit Hidden Beach, a secluded paradise surrounded by rocks, and Helicopter Island, with its soft sand and underwater life.
📌 Tour D: The most underrated tour, perfect for escaping the crowds. Swim in the turquoise waters of Cadlao Lagoon and unwind on the quiet, white sands of Paradise Beach.
How to Book?
✔️ Cheapest Option: Walk along El Nido town or Corong-Corong & book with a vendor.
✔️ Easy & Secure: Pre-book via Klook or El Nido Paradise Tours.
✔️ Private Tour: Ask in Facebook groups or book via your hotel.
Unfortunately, due to the weather, we couldn’t do Tour B and C, but we still made the most of our time. We enjoyed massages, relaxed on Corong Corong Beach, and spent our evenings at beach bars watching breathtaking sunsets. The golden-hour glow on the water was absolutely mesmerizing.
Where We Stayed: Lime Resort (⭐ 3.5/5 – A bit Overrated 😕)
Pros: Infinity Pool with a view and modern design.
Cons: Overpriced, not the best service.
Alternative Hotels in El Nido:
🏨 Budget: Spin Designer Hostel ($50) – Social & fun vibe.
🏨 Mid-Range: Cadlao Resort ($120) – Beachfront & peaceful.
🏨 Luxury: Panorama Villas ($200) – Private villas with stunning views.
🏨 Ultra-Luxury: El Nido Resorts Pangulasian Island ($600+) – A private island dream.
Cons of El Nido:
• Weather Uncertainty: Bad weather can cancel island-hopping tours, which limits your options.
• Crowds During Peak Season: El Nido is getting more popular, which means it can get crowded at some of the more famous spots like Big Lagoon.
• Overpriced Accommodation & Food: While there are budget options, some places charge a premium without the corresponding quality.
🌊 Panglao, Bohol (Rest of the Trip) – Tarsiers, Chocolate Hills & White Sands
Panglao and Bohol are perfect for winding down, but they offer just as much adventure as the other islands. Panglao Beach, with its powdery soft sand and crystal-clear water, is an absolute paradise. The surrounding lush countryside also hosts incredible natural wonders.
Highlights:
• Chocolate Hills – A breathtaking landscape of 1,268 grass-covered hills, which turn a rich brown during the dry season, creating an almost alien-like panorama.
• Tarsier Sanctuary – Meet the world’s smallest primates, the Tarsiers, in their natural jungle habitat.
• Loboc River Cruise – Drift along the lush riverbanks, surrounded by jungle, and enjoy a traditional Filipino buffet as you float down the serene waters.
• Anda Beach & Panglao Beaches – These beaches are quieter than El Nido, making them perfect for those looking for a peaceful beach experience.
Things to Know:
• Tarsier Sanctuary can get busy, so try to visit early in the day.
• Panglao is a great base to explore the island of Bohol—it’s peaceful, but there’s plenty of adventure nearby.
• The island-hopping tour from Panglao was the biggest disappointment—we found the snorkeling spots were underwhelming. It didn’t live up to the hype of other islands in the Philippines.
Where We Stayed: Pyramid Beach Resort (⭐ 3.5/5 – Nice but Noisy)
Pros: Right on Alona Beach, comfortable rooms with beautiful ocean views.
Cons: Noisy at night due to nearby bars and restaurants.
Alternative Hotels in Panglao (Bohol):
🏨 Budget: Bohol Coco Farm ($30) – Eco-friendly & cheap.
🏨 Mid-Range: Oceanica Beach Resort (South Palms Resort) ($150) – Beautiful beachfront, quieter atmosphere.
🏨 Luxury: Amorita Resort (~$200+) – Stunning views and private beach.
💰 Total Budget Breakdown:
Itinerary Budget (Per Person):
✈️International Flight: $1100 per person
✈️ Domestic Flights: ~$500 per person
You can book ferry between Coron and El Nido as a cheaper alternative but keep in mind ferry takes 4-5 hours
🏨 Hotels: ~$550 per person
🚤 Private Boat Tour in Coron: $80-$120 per boat
🌊 El Nido Island Tours: $25-$50 per person
🍽 Food & Drinks: $20-$50 per meal
⛴ Ferry from Bohol to Cebu: $17 per person
Final Reflections on the Philippines: Sun, Salt & Surrender
Some destinations leave a mark on you, not just for their beauty but for how they make you feel. The Philippines was one of those places—wild, welcoming, and impossible to forget.
Coron felt like stepping onto another planet—otherworldly lagoons, towering limestone cliffs, and waters so clear they blurred the line between air and sea. El Nido was pure adventure—winding through hidden beaches, island-hopping by day, and chasing magical sunsets by night. Bohol showed all shades of green, from the rolling Chocolate Hills to lush rice fields, hidden waterfalls, and the wide-eyed gaze of the tiniest tarsiers. Cebu gave us a soft place to land before goodbye, a moment to reflect before heading home.
But beyond the beauty, it was the people who made this journey unforgettable—welcoming, kind, always ready with a smile. Their warmth made every island feel like home.
This trip was a lesson in letting go, in surrendering to the tide. And yes, I’d go back in a heartbeat. Some places never really let you leave.
