Are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime? The Philippines isn’t just about pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters – it’s an adrenaline junkie’s paradise!
Did you know this archipelago of over 7,000 islands boasts some of the world’s best diving spots, including the legendary Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the vast array of outdoor sports and adventure activities in the Philippines. From the ocean’s depths to the heights of volcanic peaks, get ready to discover the ultimate country for outdoor enthusiasts.
The Philippines is renowned for its stunning islands and water so clear that it feels unreal, making it a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. Let’s dive into some must-try activities:
Island Hopping Adventures
One of the best ways to experience the beauty of the Philippines is through island hopping. Two prime destinations for this activity are:
El Nido, Palawan: Often called “Heaven on Earth,” El Nido offers limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, and secluded beaches. Don’t miss:
- The Big Lagoon: Kayak through turquoise waters surrounded by towering limestone cliffs.
- Secret Beach: Accessible only through a small space in the rock face, this hidden gem is straight out of a movie.
- Nacpan Beach:Â A four-kilometre stretch of powdery sand, lined with coconuts
Coron, Palawan: Known for its pristine lakes and technicolour coral reefs, Coron is a must-visit. Highlights include:
- Kayangan Lake: Often called the cleanest lake in Asia, it’s surrounded by limestone cliffs and a haven for freedivers.
- Twin Lagoon: Swim through an underwater crevice to reach a hidden lagoon.
- Barracuda Lake: A unique diving spot with thermoclines, where you can experience both warm and cold water (and a lone barracuda who roams the water)
Kayaking and Stand-Up Paddleboarding
Explore hidden lagoons and secret beaches up close with kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). Top spots include:
- Small Lagoon, El Nido: Navigate through a small entrance to discover a serene, blue-green lagoon.
- Bohol: Paddle along the Loboc River, surrounded by lush jungle.
Kayaking in Palawan promises an incredible adventure.
Plus, at most of the main tourist beaches, kayaks can be rented, meaning you can always have a spontaneous paddle in the ocean!
Windsurfing and Kitesurfing
For those who love to harness the power of the wind, the Philippines offers excellent conditions for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Prime locations include:
- Bulabog Beach, Boracay: The most popular spot for these sports, with consistent winds and professional instructors. Ideal conditions occur between November and April.Â
- Cuyo Island, Palawan: A hidden gem for kitesurfing, with strong winds and fewer crowds.
- Kingfisher Beach, Pagudpud: Located at the northernmost tip of Luzon, it offers great conditions for beginners and advanced riders.
Freediving
Experience the underwater world without the need for a certification. Freediving is gaining popularity in the Philippines, with Moalboal, Cebu being a top destination. Here, you can:
- Swim alongside millions of sardines in the famous sardine run.
- Explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life.
- Encounter sea turtles in their natural habitat.
For beginners, many dive shops offer introductory freediving courses. More experienced freedivers can take advanced courses or join freediving trips to remote locations. If you fancy participating in a freediving course, you can contact PacificBlue Freediving In Cebu.
Canyoneering
For an adrenaline-packed adventure, try canyoneering in Cebu. The most popular spot is Kawasan Falls in Badian, where you’ll:
- Navigate through canyons and crystal-clear rivers.
- Jump off cliffs ranging from 3 to 30 feet high.
- Swim in turquoise waters and under cascading waterfalls.
- Zipline through the jungle to reach the starting point
Safety tip: Always choose a licensed guide and wear proper safety equipment, including helmets and life jackets.
Scuba Diving and Snorkeling Adventures
The Philippines is a diver’s dream, with an incredible diversity of marine life and underwater landscapes. Did you know that the country is home to over 2,000 species of fish and 500 species of coral? Scuba diving is one of the most iconic adventure activities in the Philippines! Let’s explore some top diving and snorkelling experiences:
Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is often ranked among the best dive sites in the world. Located in the Sulu Sea, Tubbataha is only accessible by liveaboard trips, usually from March to June. Here, you can:
- Dive alongside schools of jacks, barracudas, and reef sharks.
- Spot rare species like hammerhead sharks and manta rays.
- Explore pristine coral gardens with over 360 species of coral.
Swim With Whale Sharks
Swim with the gentle giants of the sea in Donsol, Sorsogon. Unlike other locations where whale sharks are fed to attract them, Donsol offers a more natural and responsible interaction. The best time to visit is from November to June, with peak season from February to April.
Responsible tourism tip: Choose operators that follow strict guidelines to protect these magnificent creatures. Keep a respectful distance and never touch the whale sharks.
You may have heard about the whale shark watching experiences in Oslob and other parts of the country. Most people don’t realise these encounters aren’t entirely natural nor 100% ethical. That’s why it’s important to research any animal encounter in the Philippines before rushing to visit.
Shipwreck Diving in Coron
Coron Bay is home to a fleet of Japanese ships sunk during World War II, making it a unique underwater museum for history buffs and diving enthusiasts. Popular wrecks include:
- Irako Maru: A 147-meter refrigeration ship, now home to large schools of fish.
- Okikawa Maru: An oil tanker with an impressive intact bow gun.
- Kogyo Maru: A cargo ship with a visible bulldozer in its hold.
These wrecks range from shallow dives suitable for beginners to technical dives for more experienced divers. Most divers are aware that seeing multiple shipwrecks in one day is very rare, making a diving trip in Coron a bucket list experience. You may even see a grouper!
Snorkeling in Camiguin
Known as the “Island Born of Fire” due to its volcanic origin, Camiguin offers excellent snorkelling opportunities. Don’t miss:
- White Island: A pristine sandbar with crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkelling.
- Mantigue Island: A marine sanctuary with diverse coral reefs and fish species (and some of the clearest waters you will see)
- Giant Clam Sanctuary: Home to over 2,500 giant clams (As of 2024, the sanctuary is undergoing changes. Make sure you check it is open before you go)!
Turtle Encounters in Balicasag Marine Park, Bohol
Balicasag Island is a protected marine sanctuary known for its abundance of sea turtles. Here, you can:
- Snorkel or dive with green sea turtles and hawksbill turtles.
- Explore the vibrant “Turtle Point” with its drop-off bustling with blue-green chromis (the cutest reef fish)
- Snorkel amongst vibrant reefs teeming with marine life
Thresher Shark Diving in Malapascua
Malapascua Island, located off the northern tip of Cebu, is one of the few places in the world where you can frequently see thresher sharks. These elusive creatures are known for their elongated tails.
To see them:
- Take an early morning dive to Monad Shoal, where the sharks come to be cleaned by smaller fish.
- Visit between March and November for the best chances of sightings.
- Consider getting your Advanced Open Water certification, as the dive site is typically below 30 meters.
Practical Tips for Diving in the Philippines
- Get PADI certified before your trip for a fuller diving experience. Many dive shops offer courses if you want to get certified on-site.
- Book with reputable dive shops and always dive with a buddy.
- Consider a liveaboard trip to access remote diving sites like Tubbataha Reefs.
- Ensure your travel insurance covers scuba diving activities.
- Respect marine life (never touch the corals) and follow responsible diving practices.
Surfing
The Philippines has quickly become a surfing hotspot, with waves to suit all skill levels. During your trip, try to catch a wave at one of the popular surfing destinations:
Siargao Island
Known as the surfing capital of the Philippines, Siargao offers world-class waves, including the famous Cloud 9 break. Key spots include:
- Cloud 9: A powerful right-hand reef break, best for experienced surfers.
- Jacking Horse: A more forgiving wave, great for beginners and intermediates.
- Pacifico: A consistent beach break suitable for all levels.
Best time to visit: September to November for the biggest swells, but surfable waves can be found year-round.
This island is beloved by backpacks and novice surfers, with friendly teachers and beginner waves in the off-season.
Baler, Aurora
The birthplace of surfing in the Philippines, Baler is great for beginners and intermediate surfers. The best time to visit is October to March for the best waves. Popular breaks include:
- Sabang Beach: The main surfing area with consistent waves.
- Cemento Beach: A reef break for more experienced surfers.
La Union
La Union offers consistent waves and a vibrant surf culture. Key spots:
- Urbiztondo Beach: The main surfing area with waves suitable for all levels.
- Carille Point: A point break for more experienced surfers.
Best time to visit: July to October for the biggest swells, but surfable year-round (check the online surf forecast before you go).
Cataduanes
For those seeking less crowded waves and a more off-the-beaten-path experience, head to Catanduanes. The best time to visit is August to October for the biggest waves. Check out:
- Puraran Beach: Home to the “Majestics,” powerful barrel waves for experienced surfers.
- Twins Rock: A more forgiving beach break suitable for beginners.
Calicoan Island, Eastern Samar
Calicoan is extremely rustic, meaning you won’t find many shops or cafes. A trip in Calicoan often involves camping, stargazing and campfire cooking, before hitting the early morning waves!
The island is an emerging surf destination with powerful waves, best visited between November and April. The top surf spot is:
- ABCD Beach: Four connected beaches with various breaks suitable for different skill levels.
Surfing Tips for Beginners
- Take lessons from a qualified instructor to learn proper techniques and safety.
- Start with a longer, more buoyant board for easier paddling and stability.
- Always check local conditions and be aware of potential hazards like rip currents.
- Respect local surfers and follow proper surfing etiquette.
Other Board Sports to Try
Sandboarding in La Paz
Sandboarding on the La Paz Sand Dunes in Ilocos Norte: Try “surfing” down massive sand dunes, an experience unlike any other!
Mountain Climbing and Hiking Expeditions
The Philippines offers diverse terrain for hikers and mountain climbers, from volcanic peaks to lush forests and mesmerizing rice terraces that span as far as the eye can see. Let’s explore some top hiking destinations:
Mount Apo
As the highest peak in the Philippines at 2,954 meters (9,692 feet), Mount Apo offers a challenging climb and stunning views. Key features:
- Multiple trails of varying difficulty, with the Kidapawan-Magpet trail being the most popular.
- Diverse landscapes including forests, grasslands, and rocky terrain.
- Sulfur vents and small lakes near the summit.
The best time to climb is March to May for the driest conditions. Duration: Typically a 2-3 day trek.
Banaue Rice Terraces
These rice terraces in the Philippines offer a unique trekking experience through ancient agricultural landscapes. Highlights include:
- Batad Rice Terraces: Often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World.”
- Tappiya Waterfall: A refreshing stop on the Batad trek.
Best time to visit: March to May for lush green terraces, November to February for golden-brown views. Anticipate a half-day hike!
Mayon Volcano
Hike the trails around this perfect cone-shaped active volcano in Albay.
Options include:
- Lignon Hill: An easy trek offering panoramic views of Mayon.
- Cagsawa Ruins: Historic site with Mayon as a backdrop.
Note: Climbing to the summit is currently prohibited due to volcanic activity.
Best time to visit: Year-round, but February to April offers the clearest views.
Mount Pulag
Famous for its “sea of clouds” at dawn, Mount Pulag is the highest peak in Luzon. Key features:
- Multiple trails, with Ambangeg being the easiest and Akiki the most challenging.
- Unique dwarf bamboo grasslands near the summit.
- Opportunity to camp and witness a stunning sunrise above the clouds.
Best time to climb: December to February for the best chance of clear skies. Duration: Depends on the chosen trail.
Osmena Peak, Cebu
The highest point in Cebu offers panoramic views and relatively easy hiking. Features include:
- Distinctive jagged peaks reminiscent of Bohol’s Chocolate Hills.
- 360-degree views of the surrounding islands and sea.
Best time to visit: Year-round, but avoid the rainy season (June to October) for better trail conditions. Duration: 20 minutes to 1 hour for the main peak, depending on fitness levels.
Taraw Cliff, El Nido
For a more urban adventure, climb the limestone cliffs in El Nido for breathtaking views of the bay. Note:
- The traditional route is very challenging and requires scrambling over sharp rocks.
- A newer, safer Taraw Via Ferrata was introduced in 2019, offering a more accessible option.
Best time to climb: Early morning for the best views and cooler temperatures.
Duration: 1-2 hours round trip.
Hiking and Climbing Safety Tips:
- Always hike with a guide, especially on unfamiliar or challenging trails.
- Check weather conditions and be prepared for sudden changes.
- Bring appropriate gear, including sturdy footwear and rain protection.
- Stay hydrated and bring enough water and snacks.
- Respect local customs and obtain necessary permits where required.
Caving and Spelunking
Discover the underground wonders of the Philippines with these exciting caving adventures:
Puerto Princesa Underground River
Navigate this UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of the world’s longest underground rivers. Features include:
- 8.2 km navigable river flowing directly into the sea.
- Impressive stalactites and stalagmites formations.
- Diverse wildlife, including bats and swiftlets.
Tours are government-run and typically cover the first 1.5 km of the cave system.
Sagada Caves
Explore the caves in Sagada and witness the unique hanging coffins, part of local burial traditions. Key sites:
- Lumiang Burial Cave: See the ancient hanging coffins up close.
- Sumaguing Cave: The largest cave in Sagada, featuring impressive rock formations. A spelunking tour here takes you deep underground into an expansive cave with a stream running through it. Prepare to get wet!
- Cave Connection: A challenging adventure connecting Lumiang and Sumaguing caves.
The best time to visit is December to May for drier conditions.
Cantabon Cave, Siquijor
Head underground on this mystical island known for its natural beauty and folklore. Features:
- 800-meter-long cave system with underground rivers and pools.
- Challenging route with rope climbs and squeezes.
- Unique rock formations and plenty of bats.
Caving Safety Tips:
- Always go with an experienced guide.
- Wear appropriate gear, including helmets and sturdy footwear.
- Bring multiple sources of light.
- Don’t touch cave formations to preserve their natural state.
- Be aware of your physical limitations and choose caves appropriate to your skill level.
Ziplines and Aerial Adventures
For those who prefer their thrills high above the ground, the Philippines offers exciting aerial adventures:
- Bukidnon: Soar on Asia’s longest dual zipline, stretching over 1.3 kilometres.
- Bohol: Try the unique Bike Zipline for a one-of-a-kind experience.
- Tagaytay: Combine a zipline adventure with a scenic cable car ride.
- Camp N, Nuvali: Glide through the treetops on multiple zipline courses.
- Oslob, Cebu: For the ultimate adrenaline rush, try paragliding over the stunning coastline.
Best Season for Adventure Activities In The Philippines
While the Philippines is a year-round destination, certain seasons are better for specific activities:
- Diving: Year-round, but the best visibility is from November to May. This can also vary between different regions of the country.
- Surfing: Varies by location, but generally best from September to March
- Hiking: The dry season from December to May offers the best conditions
- Island hopping: Best during the dry season from November to April
Sustainable Adventure Tourism
As you enjoy the natural wonders of the Philippines, remember to practice responsible tourism:
- Follow the “Leave No Trace” principles
- Support eco-friendly tour operators and accommodations
- Respect wildlife and marine ecosystems
- Engage with local communities responsibly
- Choose sustainable transportation options when possible
Gear and Equipment Guide
Depending on your chosen activities, consider packing:
- Quick-dry clothing and swimwear
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Sturdy hiking boots for trekking
- Snorkelling or diving gear (or rent from reputable shops)
- Waterproof camera or phone case
- Reusable water bottle
- First-aid kit (including Imodium)
- Microfiber towel
Safety Considerations and Tips
- Always check weather conditions before engaging in outdoor activities
- Use reputable tour operators and guides
- Ensure you have proper gear and equipment for your chosen activity
- Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun (it is advisable to buy suncream before coming to the Philippines)
- Respect local customs and environmental regulations
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your gear, book your flights, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime in the Philippines! Don’t forget to respect the local environment and culture as you explore – after all, sustainable tourism is the key to preserving these incredible experiences for future thrill-seekers. Are you ready to make this your year of Philippine adventure?
Thank you for reading our blog!
We are Em & Yul – An English & Filipino Travel Couple. Now based in Cebu, we frequently explore the best destinations, hidden gems and cultural attractions across the Philippines.Â
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