While it’s true that both the islands of Luzon and Mindanao are much larger in size compared to Visayas, you simply cannot deny the fact that it is much richer in culture, history, and astonishing natural wonders!
The Visayan Group of Islands is composed of hundreds of smaller islands and seven (7) major islands including Bohol, Cebu, Leyte, Negros, Panay, and Samar. All of these majestic islands consist of astounding white-sand beaches, secret lagoons, and breathtaking landscapes. Oh, and I’m sure that you’ll love the world-class cuisine that Visayas has to offer and enjoy spectacular dishes like Lechon, Chicken Inasal, Kansi, Piaya, and a whole lot more.
On top of that, Visayas is also a must-visit destination if you want to learn more about the Philippines’ rich and colorful history. Visayas became the center of Christianity in the country because it is where Ferdinand Magellan first docked his ships, specifically in Mactan, Cebu. Aside from its culture and history, many tourists would also enjoy the impressive rise of Visayas as one of the country’s fastest-growing economies. The Queen City of the South, Cebu City itself, is already a tourism gem you shouldn’t miss when you get the chance to visit Visayas.
So, are you ready? Visayas sure has a lot in store for you! Go get your bags packed because we’ll be going on another exciting adventure as we discover and explore the 15 Best Tourist Spots in Visayas!
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1. Boracay Island | Aklan
Of course, no one should ever miss the chance to visit one of the Philippines’ finest, Boracay Island itself! This extraordinary piece of paradise is located in Malay, Aklan, and is known all over the world as one of the most beautiful islands you can find. Boracay is home to pristine white sand beaches, nerve-wracking water activities, and most especially unforgettable nightlife experiences.
Due to Boracay Island’s extreme international popularity, there are already several world-class hotels, resorts, and restaurants scattered all around the island. You can also expect to meet lots of amazing people that came from different parts of the world. All in all, visiting Boracay Island will surely not disappoint, so make sure not to miss out!
READ THE BLOG POST: 15 Best Beachfront Resorts in Boracay
2. Islas de Gigantes | Iloilo
Up next, our second destination is no other than Islas de Gigantes or Gigantes Islands of Carles, Iloilo. This tropical wonder is a chain of ten (10) islands that is located in the northernmost part of Iloilo. It is said that visiting the whole of Islas de Gigantes will already take at least a day from your Visayas escapade, so plan your itinerary ahead of time!
Aside from stunning white sand beaches, awe-inspiring rock formations, and deliciously affordable seafood, you can also have the chance to climb and hike atop scenic spots where the 360° panoramic views are out of this world. Oh, and make sure to visit the breathtaking Tangke Lagoon and the famous long stretch of Bantigue’s Sandbar!
READ THE STORY: Pulupandan Island in Gigantes, Iloilo
3. Seco Island | Antique
Another must-visit tourist destination in Visayas is Seco Island of Tibiao, Antique. The name “Seco” means elbow for the locals, which amazingly depicts the shape of the island itself.
Seco Island is a popular destination for kitesurfing, swimming, beach bumming, and camping. It is also a beautiful and secluded place that is perfect for everyone who wants to cast themselves away from all the noise and stress of city life. Well, who wouldn’t want to just enjoy the rustling waves and gaze at the shimmering stars at night here at Seco Island, right?
READ THE FULL STORY: 20+ Best Tourist Spots in Antique
4. Biri Islands | Northern Samar
Biri Island is indeed one of the most beautiful and interesting places you can encounter in Visayas. It is famously known for its natural rock formations that are said to be formed by the endless crashing of waves coming from the Pacific Ocean and the San Bernardino Strait. The island consists of four (4) small rocky islands that each have its own distinct and interesting shapes.
Photo by Wikimedia CC
These rocky islands also create small natural pools where tourists can simply hop in and enjoy the stunning views. Trust me, aside from having a great time with nature, you’ll also love savoring the tropical paradise perfection of Northern Samar’s one and only Biri Islands.
5. Panglao Island | Bohol
Well, surely this list wouldn’t be complete without including one of the Philippines’ finest beach destinations! I’m talking about Panglao Island, the precious gem of Bohol itself. Its pristine white-sand beach along with the world-class diving sites scattered around the island are surely something you wouldn’t want to miss. Oh, and a lot of tourists also claim that Panglao Island has one of the most beautiful sunsets in the Philippines. It is indeed something worth witnessing at least once in your life!
Bohol 🙂
Aside from the truly amazing features of Panglao Island, it’s also the ideal jump-off location to visit other famous spots in Bohol like the Chocolate Hills, Hinagdanan Cave, and more!
READ THE BLOG POST: 15 Best Beaches in Bohol
6. Apo Island | Negros Oriental
Apo Island is a hidden gem worth visiting and exploring in Negros Oriental. It is a marine protected area that is best known all over the world for its diving and snorkeling sites. The island is home to over 650 known fish species and roughly about 450 corals. Well, it is indeed a haven for scuba diving and snorkeling enthusiasts!
Photo by Dale de Vera on Unsplash
Aside from Apo Island’s rich and thriving biodiversity, it also offers a beautiful and relaxing experience for everyone. Its turquoise blue waters, white sands, and stunning rock formations are surely a scene you won’t forget. There are only two (2) available accommodations on Apo Island, but most tourists prefer to only spend a day trip here, so plan ahead!
7. Cambugahay Falls | Siquijor
Next up, the reason why Cambugahay Falls has become the favorite spot of many tourists in Siquijor is simply because of its beautiful multi-tiered levels filled with extraordinary blue waters! From a bird’s eye view, Cambugahay Falls features stunning scenery of its landscape’s whole beauty.
Credit: WowAbouts
You can easily lose track of time during your visit here because I’m sure that you’ll very much enjoy the peace and serenity brought by nature. The heavenly sound of cascading waters, the chirping of birds, and the rustling leaves of the trees will undoubtedly calm your mind.
READ THE BLOG POST: 12 Best Siquijor Tourist Spots
8. Kalanggaman Island | Leyte
Of course, we also shouldn’t miss the chance to visit Leyte’s pride itself, Kalanggaman Island. This stunning piece of paradise is famously known for its lengthy sandbars filled with white powdered sands. As you walk along these sandbars, you’ll have a chance to get a glimpse of the turquoise blue sea.
It is said that Kalanggaman Island got its name from the local word “Langgam”, which is a Visayan local term for “bird”. This is because the island resembles the shape of a bird when viewed from atop. If you want to spend the night here at Kalanggaman Island, the only option for you is to bring your own tents and set up camp. Well, it’d be truly worth it to gaze at the breathtaking stars here at night!
READ THE FULL STORY: Kalanggaman Island: Leyte’s Piece of Paradise
9. Malapascua Island | Cebu
Ah, the perfect destination to visit right after Leyte’s Kalanggaman Island is no other than Malapascua Island of Daanbantayan, Cebu. Lots of tourists claim that Malapascua Island is indeed one of the most beautiful islands in the Philippines which is known internationally for its world-class diving sites.
In fact, it is said to be the only place in the world where you can swim with thresher sharks on a daily basis! Aside from that, Malapascua Island also has a long white-sand beach surrounded by breathtaking blue waters that are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and beach bumming.
10. Taklong Island National Marine Reserve | Guimaras
Up next, I’d say that one of the most unique destinations on this list is the Taklong Island National Marine Reserve or TINMAR of Nueva Valencia, Guimaras. It is one of those places where you can clearly see the abundance of both flora and fauna with your naked eye.
This hidden treasure of nature is composed of 37 smaller islands featuring an all-in experience for everyone! You can opt to explore the island’s stunning caves, visit amazing rock formations, walk along its breathtaking sandbars, and more. Oh, and if you simply want to chill and relax, you can also rent a floating cottage where you can enjoy a delicious lunch and even swim in some shallow parts of the sea!
Ah, another interesting landmark to visit here at Taklong Island National Marine Reserve are the facilities managed by UP-Visayas. These will give you access to mind-blowing 360° panoramic views of the whole island! Trust me, this is easily one of the best things you shouldn’t miss.
READ THE FULL STORY: NATURE’S EYE RESORT: Commune with nature in Guimaras
11. Kawasan Falls | Cebu
Ah, yes. There it is! Another precious gem worth exploring in Visayas is the one and only Kawasan Falls of Cebu. This majestic waterfall consists of three (3) breathtaking cascades of water where tourists can enjoy swimming and diving all they want. The waters here are deemed to be cold and refreshing so don’t hesitate to hop on and take a quick swim! But hey, just be reminded that before you reach this beautiful paradise, you will need to prepare yourself for quite a challenge.
Photo by Andrew Haimerl (andrewnef) on Unsplash
Kawasan Falls is located at the foot of Mantalongon Mountain Range, which is about 1 kilometer away from Badian national road. Canyoneering is the best way to traverse the trails en route to Kawasan Falls, which is a popular outdoor trek that involves passing through a series of creeks, streams, and canyons. It requires a lot of walking, jumping, and even swimming so be ready! Don’t worry though, because once you reach Kawasan Falls, I’m sure that all the efforts and hardships will be worth it.
12. Manjuyod Sandbar | Negros Oriental
Certainly, this list wouldn’t be complete without including what is dubbed the “Maldives of the Philippines”, right? Yup! I’m talking about the famous attraction of Bais, Negros Oriental, the Manjuyod Sandbar. It is said that this magnificent strip of white sand stretches for seven (7) kilometers and is best seen during low tide season.
As you walk along this amazing sandbar, you’ll get the chance to admire the beautiful turquoise waters of Negros Oriental at its finest. You can also stay at one of the wooden houses built on the island which appear to be on stilts during the high tide season. All in all, there will surely be a wonderful escape waiting for you here at Manjuyod Sandbar!
13. Cuatro Islas | Leyte
Oh, another amazing attraction you shouldn’t miss in Leyte is the famous Cuatro Islas or Four Islands. This group of islands is best known for its picturesque landscapes filled with unspoiled waters, captivating rock formations, and hidden gems of culture. The four (4) islands are namely Apid, Digyo, Mahaba, and Himokilan. Each of these islands has its own stunning attraction which will surely highlight your island-hopping activities in Visayas!
Apid is known for its thriving fishing village and mat-weaving community. Digyo, the smallest one, is known to be the “Little Boracay” for its beautiful stretch of white sand beach. Mahaba, on the other hand, is known for its two (2) breathtaking white sand coastlines, which also contain a wonderful marine sanctuary. And lastly, Himokilan Island, the largest of them all, offers unforgettable activities such as cave explorations, mountain trekking, reef diving, snorkeling, and the popular Takobo Nursery Viewing. See? All of them are truly worth visiting!
14. Bantayan Island | Cebu
If the sight of powdery white sand beaches and beautiful turquoise waters is what fascinates you, then I suggest you visit one of Cebu’s finest jewels, the Bantayan Island. And not only that, but you will also have the chance to enjoy complete peace and serenity as you savor the tranquility of the island.
Credit: Sta. Fe Beach Club
Here, you will have all the time to go beach bumming, swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing all you want. Oh, and there’s more! If you prefer to enjoy adrenaline-pumping activities, then make sure to try out cliff diving, kayaking, and skydiving activities here at Bantayan Island!
READ THE BLOG POST: Top Beach Resorts in Bantayan, Cebu
15. Lakawon Island | Negros Occidental
Lastly, we will be heading to what is dubbed the “Boracay of Negros”. Known for its pristine white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, Lakawon Island is indeed an attraction you shouldn’t miss. It is a 13-hectare, banana-shaped island that features a hidden sandbar that only appears during the low tide seasons.
This sandbar allows people to walk along the magnificent waters as they enjoy the spectacular view of the island. And on top of that, Lakawon Island is less crowded compared to other island destinations in the country, making your stay very calm, serene, and relaxing. Which you truly deserve!
