Known for its beautiful white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and perfect summer weather, people from all over the world flock to the Philippines to enjoy tropical getaways amidst paradise. But for discerning travelers, even the best beaches in the country can sometimes be a bit too crowded for one’s taste and comfort. The Philippines actually has several hidden gems for vacationers who seek luxurious stays and tranquil escapes. From luxury boutique-style resorts to idyllic remote islands, here are some of the best places in the Philippines that you can escape to for a calm and comfortable tropical retreat.
1. Amanpulo
Photo: Aman
Amanpulo is a private paradise island located in Palawan. Accessible only by plane, this resort presents the perfect tropical getaway where you can bask in luxury and privacy. It is the only resort on the uninhabited isle of Pamalican, which is part of the Quiniluban Group of Cuyo Islands. Set right in the middle of the Sulu Sea, Amanpulo is an oasis of white beaches and clear waters. Guests of the resort can enjoy kite surfing in Amanpulo’s calm seas or go diving to explore the coral reefs and marine life just 300 meters offshore.
Website: aman.com/resorts/amanpulo
2. Nay Palad Hideaway
Photo: Nay Palad Hideaway
Nay Palad Hideaway is a luxury island resort in Siargao. The resort is designed to put their guests into what they call a “barefoot state of mind,” inviting them to forget their worries and leave the real world behind as they enter the resort’s gates. The resort makes this happen through bespoke services that promise a worry-free experience during your stay. Whether you’re looking for adventures or just want to relax in total calmness and privacy, Nay Palad Hideaway can make it happen for you so you.
Website: naypaladhideaway.com
3. Banwa Private Island
Photo: Banwa Private Island
Although it just recently opened last 2019, Banwa Private Island has already made headlines for being one of the most expensive resorts in the world. The island sits within a marine protected area, blessed with thriving marine life and ecosystem. Banwa Private Island is a pristine Palawan gem where guests can relish in relaxed luxury paired with personalized guest services. The whole island only accommodates 48 guests at a time and can either be booked on a per villa basis or as an exclusive island charter.
Website: banwaprivateisland.com
4. Apulit Island Resort
Photo: El Nido Resorts
Apulit Island Resort is an eco-adventure island resort located on Palawan’s east coast. The island is surrounded by majestic limestone cliffs jutting out from crystal clear waters. While its location is rather secluded, the resort features a wide array of exhilarating on-site activities that will leave even the most thrill-seeking adventurers satisfied. Some activities that can be enjoyed while staying in this luxury resort include rappelling down a 60-meter cliff, a diving exploration of a Japanese shipwreck, cave spelunking, island hopping, and more.
Website: elnidoresorts.com/apulit-island
5. Cauayan Island Resort
Photo: Cauayan Resort
Experience laid-back luxury at Cauayan Island Resort in El Nido. The resort is designed to harmonize with the raw natural beauty of its locale to create the perfect seaside haven that is both tranquil and luxurious. This exclusive beach resort has 29 private villas situated around the lagoon and on the beach. Guests of the resort can spend their day on its pristine beach where baby sharks swim freely, or on the island’s untouched rainforest where they can get closer to nature.
Website:cauayanresort.com
6. Ariara
Photo: Ariara Island
A paradise made with the most discerning travelers in mind, Ariara is a private island in northern Palawan where you can enjoy a truly private vacation experience. This island resort features luxurious accommodations and first-rate facilities, surrounded by 125 acres of raw natural beauty. Being a private island that has controlled access, this luxury resort promises bespoke experiences in every stay, making sure that your tropical vacation is exactly how you wanted it to be.
Website:ariaraisland.com
7. Misibis Bay
Photo: Klook
Misibis Bay is a tropical island getaway located on Cagraray Island in Albay, a province in the Bicol region. This 5-hectare private island resort can be reached via a 30 to 50-minute boat ride from Legazpi City. Here, guests have the option to enjoy a relaxing vacation amidst the stately palm trees that dot the island or go for an exciting adventure through the countless activities that the island offers such as ATV rides, windsurfing, kayaking, and more.
Website: misibisbay.com
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Featured photo credit: Nay Palad Hideaway via mrandmrssmith.com
