Five Great Places Tourists Don’t See in the Philippines

The Philippines is a country rich in beaches, mountains, greens and nightlife. It is probably one of the best places tourists visit, as it offers not just delicious food and the perfect tropical climate, but it is as well attended by accommodating and hospitable people.

But while most tourists flock to the usual hot spots such as Baguio and Tagaytay for the sights, and Boracay and Camarines Sur for white sand beaches and surfing, you may want to explore some unknown yet equally beautiful places which are also worth a look. Below are five of them:

Photo by drquimbo

1. Marabut, Samar. Located at the tail end of Samar Island is Marabut, a shoreline municipality which offers white sand beaches, clear blue waters and amazing rock formations. It is a popular getaway for the locals especially those in the neighboring island of Leyte, but foreigners are a rare attraction in the town‚Äôs shores.

2. Mt. Banahaw. Meanwhile, if you are looking for some holy ground where you can rest up, then Mt. Banahaw is the place to visit. This holy dormant volcano is known for its mysticism and rich religious history. A lot of people go to Mt. Banahaw not only to hike, but also to have their illnesses cured through resident faith healers and practitioners of alternative medicine.

3. Darigayos, Luna, La Union. Darigayos is a small coastline barrio similar to Marabut, only that it is located up in the northern part of the Philippines. It hosts a long strain of virgin beaches fit for snorkeling, swimming and surfing. And it‚Äôs just an hour‚Äôs drive away from Baguio, the country‚Äôs haven for cold climate and fresh strawberries. The town itself is rich in colonial Spanish culture, so if you‚Äôre tired of spending time under the sun, then you can take a tour in the town, where you can see a few standing structures and ruins of old buildings and facades.

Photo by ppborla

4. Camotes Islands, Cebu. One of the most urbanized provinces in the country is Cebu, but it also offers a wonderful island paradise. The Camotes Islands are a group of low-lying islands in the eastern part of Cebu, and here you can go island hopping, snorkeling and underwater sight-seeing. It can be a bit difficult to go to the islands especially during the rainy season, but it is definitely a fulfilling adventure destination during the summer season.

Photo by dennes abing

5. Camiguin. Mindanao is in the southern part of the Philippines and is bugged by terrorism and secessionist issues, but not in the northern tip of the region. You may want to check out what Camiguin has to offer. Aside from beaches and delectable food options, Camiguin is also popular for its underwater cemetery. It‚Äôs actually a part of the town‚Äôs cemetery that submerged after a natural calamity, and it has since been a hit attraction especially to underwater enthusiasts and foreigners alike.