12 Underrated Philippine Destinations We Can't Wait To Rediscover

From underrated Philippine beaches to hidden gems in popular tourist destinations, we've listed down 12 local spots we can't wait to travel to post-quarantine.

With the pandemic putting a halt to all our travel plans, even galavanting through neighboring cities and regions isn’t something we can do right now. So while we’re left daydreaming about our next trip, here are a couple destinations around the Philippines to consider. If anything, this time in quarantine has made us realize how little of the country we’ve seen, so if you haven’t seen even one of these destinations, make sure to keep it in mind for when we’re able to travel again!

To paint you a picture, Batanes is home to endless scenes of rolling hills and seaside cliffs that'll transport you worlds away from the city.

Many go as far to say that Batanes is the best Philippine destination they’ve visited, rivaling the country’s famed beaches and islands. If that claim isn’t enough to pique your interest, we don’t know what will!

Some may disagree, but Bohol deserves so much more praise. Though it’s been put on the map for its Chocolate Hills and Tarsier Sanctuaries, Bohol is so much more than its crowning jewels. This Visayan province is home to a treasure trove of hidden gems, natural wonders and dare we say - the best beaches in the country. 

If you have yet to travel to Bohol, we can’t recommend this dynamic city enough. It’s got everything from hidden cave pools to underwater sanctuaries perfect for every type of traveler.

Although Dumaguete is typically more popular for retirees, this city isn’t shy of unique activities. Apart from the stunning attractions such as Siliman University Campus and the Catherine of Alexandria Church, Dumaguete is home to breathtaking natural wonders such as the famous Apo Island and Mabinay Cave Town. We can’t recommend this seaside city enough for a laidback vacation.

Dotted with secluded beaches, hidden waterfalls, and an abundance of adventure spots - Cagayan de Oro should be a must-visit list for any adventure-seeker. CDO is popular for whitewater rafting, kayaking and a number of other extreme activities that’ll really make for a great time. 

In addition to the high-inducing activities, CDO keeps a bounty of secret beaches on their side of the country. You can also do a short trip to Camiguin - which is also littered with stunning white-sand beaches.

Some would liken the beaches of Caramoan to Boracay - but for us? It’s ten times better. It’s got it all - rich marine life, white sand beaches, clear blue waters, breathtaking landscapes - minus the crowds. This island is so underrated, two seasons of reality TV series ‘Survivor’ were filmed here - talk about a castaway’s paradise!

While Puerto Princesa, Coron and El Nido all remain to be all time favorites for both tourists and locals alike, there are more than a handful of islands in this province that remain undiscovered.

One of which is Port Barton - which has slowly been increasing in popularity in the past years. So if you’re hoping to visit Palawan post-pandemic, make some time to visit this secluded, sleepy town.

To be honest, Pangasinan’s crowning glory, the Hundred Islands, is enough reason for you to visit. But as the third largest province in the country, you can bet that Pangasinan isn’t short of natural wonders and breathtaking attractions. To add to your itinerary, be sure to visit the Umbrella Rock Beach, Bolinao, Depth Pool and Pabrika Beach to start. 

Many first-time visitors to Iloilo are surprised by the province’s abundant beauty - whether it be with historical attractions or natural wonders. For those down for a trek through historical sites and unique attractions, be sure to include the Molo Mansion, Garin Farm in San Joaquin, and Calabazas Island into your schedule.

While it’s difficult for us to narrow down Iloilo’s hidden gems and must-see spots, we highly recommend Damires hills Tierra Verde, Sicogon Island, Bulubadiangan Sandbar, Nadsadjan Falls, Bucari and Bantigue Island for a packed itinerary. 

If beaches aren’t your cup of tea, why not escape to the mountains in Bukidnon? This Northern Mindanao province has some of the country’s best kept secrets - including the Blue Water Cave, Alalum Falls and Dahilayan Forest Park. We can already imagine frequent hikers delight at the endless hiking spots - from Musuan Peak to Mount Dulang-Dulang.

The sun-drenched island of Guimaras is yet another destination with even more secluded and undiscovered beaches that truly make it seem like you’re on a private island. Some Guimaras highlights to include on your itinerary would be Ave Maria Island, Natago Beach, and Baras Cave. 

Overshadowed by its neighboring island, Boracay, Romblon doesn’t get much praise, but that’s probably what makes it special. Dotted with sandbars, trekking trails, and hidden waterfalls - this is one local destination you do not want to sleep on.

For beach-goers, don’t miss the Bon Bon sandbar, Koding Koding Point, and Cresta de Gallo island. If you’re keen on going off the beaten path - Mount Guiting-Guiting is a beautiful hiking spot, while Lambingan Falls and Mablaran Falls are hidden gems you can’t miss. 

Siquijor is a mystery to many as it is said to be a hub for witchcraft or the supernatural. However, the only bewitching we’re sure of is a consequence of Siquijor’s spellbinding natural wonders. Here, you’ll be mesmerized by unspoilt beaches from Paliton Beach to Salagdoong Beach and hidden falls and caves like Kawasan Falls, Cantabon Cave and Cambugahay Falls.