LONG BEACH, SAN VICENTE, PALAWAN
At more than 14 kilometres, this is the longest white-sand beach in the Philippines and second-longest in Southeast Asia.
Enjoy the laid-back rural vibe of Long Beach while gazing at the undisturbed view of the horizon. Head out to the majestic Pamuayan Falls where you can explore the surrounding forest and discover the rich flora and fauna.
Go island-hopping via a short boat ride to discover other hidden gems of San Vincente but make sure you’re back at Long Beach for one of the most romantic sunsets in the world.
As testament to its enduring appeal, Palawan has just bagged another prestigious accolade, this time as one of the ‘Trending Destinations in the World for 2024’ on Tripadvisor.
This latest recognition comes on the heels of Palawan’s back-to-back global citations in 2023 as one of the ‘World’s Most Desirable Countries for Adventure’, to Travel + Leisure’s top Islands, to Condé Nast Traveler’s ‘Most Beautiful Places in the World’ and Top Readers’ Choice.
“With the global recognition, the island is poised to attract a surge in visitors, providing a boost to the local economy and reinforcing Palawan’s position as a top-tier travel destination,” said Christina Garcia Frasco, Tourism Secretary.
BANTAYAN ISLAND, CEBU
This emerging destination set on the northernmost tip of Cebu is an ideal spot for those romantic couple shots.
Explore secluded Paradise Beach and Virgin Island, the Obo-Ob mangrove garden with its rustic bamboo bridge, the Kota Park Pier and the Kinatarkan Lighthouse.
History-lovers will make a beeline for the centuries-old St. Peter and Paul parish church made of coral stones.
For a taste of Cebuano cuisine, look for restaurants that offer Sutukil or grilled seafood from the catch of the day.
SAMAL ISLAND, DAVAO
The island garden city of Samal comprises two islands and is dotted with many resorts where couples can relax and enjoy a luxe getaway.
A memorable meal under the stars is extremely popular, enjoying fresh seafood and a delicious range of wines.
Take a picnic to Hagimit Falls or a day trip to the Pearl Farm Beach Resort for sightseeing and water sport activities such as jet skiing and diving.
Hike hand in hand at the Mt. Putting Bato or catch Vanishing Island before it becomes submerged under the tides.
BUKIDNON GLAMPING SITES
For something a little different, snuggle together under canvas in the luxury tents set up in the mountains or overlooking the grand Bukidnon landscapes. These sites offer top-notch service and delicious dishes made from fresh local produce.
Taglucop Strawberry Hills lets couples wake up to a field of flowers and fruits while enjoying the tranquillity which is a hallmark of the local province. Dahilayan Forest Park has cabin-like tents that offer a treetop view.
Take a sight-seeing tour to Lake Pinamaloy in Don Carlos and the solemn beauty of the Abbey of the Transfiguration in Malaybalay City.
BORACAY ISLAND
This world-renowned destination is one of the top wedding and honeymoon locations in the country.
Aside from lounging on pure white sand or swimming in clear blue waters, couples can enjoy the vibrant nightlife, delicious local cuisine and impressive sunsets. Some resorts can also set up a special seaside dinner for two.
For some quality time alone, take a trip to quieter beaches such as Diniwid, Puka, Ilig-Iligan or Balinghai, or enjoy activities such as diving, snorkelling and parasailing.
BATANES ISLAND
There are many romantic activities and attractions to be found here, including the wide-open spaces of Rakuh-a-Payahman (also called communal pastureland) and Vayang Rolling Hills.
Perhaps the tallest structures in Batanes are also its most romantic: its lighthouses, set against a dramatic backdrop and ideal for loved-up pictures.
Couples can also bike across the island to explore its impressive grandeur or book at boat to Sabtang Island to visit vernacular stone houses that were built with local materials to withstand any storm.
SICOGON ISLAND AND ISLAS DE GIGANTES, ILOILO
The tropical gems of Sicogon Island and Islas de Gigantes offer a relaxing, romantic experience. The views from Sicogon’s Barangay Buwaya Beach are particularly impressive.
Fall in love with the rustic life of the fishing community and commune with nature at the rock formations and craggy peak of Mt. Opao.
Islas de Gigantes is another destination for nature lovers who will enjoy its offbeat charm and the friendly hospitality of local communities.
Book a boat ride to enjoy the tranquillity of the secluded beaches at Antonia, Cabugaw Gamay Island and Bantigue, or climb the lighthouse found at the northern part of the island.
INTRAMUROS, MANILA
Stroll along the cobbled streets of Intramuros to get a feel of its old-world charm.
Couples should also take a bike ride through this historic city to see notable landmarks such as Baluarte de San Diego, Plaza Mexico and Puerto Real.
Visit the centuries-old churches San Agustin and Manila Cathedral that are both popular for weddings and take dramatic dusk photos on the ramparts and garden of Fort Santiago.
Book dinner at Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant or at the La Cathedral Café to cap a perfect romantic day.
The Philippines recently celebrated winning four major accolades at the World Travel Awards.
For the first time, the Philippines was given the Global Tourism Resilience Award for demonstrating “global leadership, pioneering vision and innovation to overcome critical challenges and adversity.”
As one of only five countries and destinations in the world cited for this inaugural award, the Philippines and other “inaugural winners will serve as benchmarks for best practices in tourism resilience,” according to the World Travel Awards.
The Philippines was also once again awarded the ‘World’s Leading Dive Destination’ and ‘World’s Leading Beach Destination’, defending its 2022 titles. For the first time, the Philippines won the ‘World’s Leading City Destination’ for its capital, Manila.
