Stressed because you can’t go to Boracay this year? Worry not! The Philippines is rich in white sand beaches that also offer a relaxing vacation for you and the whole family.
Here are 6 white sand beaches in the Philippines you can visit for your summer getaway.
1. Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte
Looking for a sweet escape from Metro Manila this summer? Pagudpud in Ilocos Norte is situated in the northernmost tip of Luzon, around 13 to 14 hours from the capital. But worry not, for after the long drive, you will be welcomed by the long stretches of white beaches in the coastal town. Pagudpud is less crowded than Boracay, so tourists can look forward to some privacy when taking a stroll along the shore while listening to the calm sound of the blue waters.
2. Palaui Island, Cagayan
Cagayan may be far from Metro Manila but the trip will be worth it once you reach Palaui Island. The island is a paradise not only for beach-lovers but for trekking-enthusiasts as well. Tourists can take Instagram-worthy photos of the island not only because of its white beach and blue waters but also because of the volcanic rock formations around the beach. At night, tourists are also free to camp out and go stargazing –very romantic for couples who wish to spend more time together.
Photo from: A Wanderful Soul blog
3. Panglao, Bohol
If you’re on the hunt for the ideal escape in the Visayas, Bohol is the place for you. After your trip to the world-renowned Chocolate Hills and your encounter with tarsiers, you may go straight to the white beaches in the province to make the most out of your summer trip. Aside from swimming in the beach, tourists can go whale and dolphin watching. Snorkeling and diving is also an attractive past time for adventurous souls.
4. Calaguas Islands, Camarines Norte
Looking for that serene-slash-romantic end to your day? Watch the sunset by the waters of Calaguas Islands and you got yourself an exclamation point to end your summer getaway. Aside from the yellow-orange color of the sunset, tourists can also enjoy the white sands and the crystal-clear waters of the beach and the lush greens that cover Calaguas hills. Tourists are also free to enjoy a campfire by the beach.
5. Samal Island, Davao del Norte
Mindanao is not only home to durian; it also serves as the home of the 118-kilometer white sand stretch of Samal Island in the province of Davao del Norte. If the previously mentioned white sand beaches offer rock formations above the sea, ready your diving gears as Samal Island offers breathtaking rock formations from under the sea. The island is also home to The Vanishing Island and Shanipaan Shoal that only appears depending on tide conditions.
Photo from: Paul Lewin (digypho)
6. Great Santa Cruz Island, Zamboanga
Zamboanga province has a hidden paradise in Great Santa Cruz Island. If the above mentioned beaches are known for their white sands, this island has a pinkish-white sand due to the red corals beneath the sands. Tourists can enjoy taking Instagram-worthy snapshots, while listening to the hushed whispers of the waves by the beach.
