Spot Guides

In‑depth guides for the most iconic Top Spots across activities.

Activity
Region
AllCordilleraCentral LuzonCentral VisayasDavao / SoccsksargenCaragaIlocosNorthern Mindanao
Difficulty
AllEasyModerateStrenuous
Amphitheater-like Batad rice terraces
Batad Rice Terraces
ModerateCordillera

UNESCO‑listed amphitheater terraces with steep stone steps, narrow ridges, and a rewarding hike to Tappiya Falls.

Mt. Pulag grassland summit at sunrise above clouds
Mt. Pulag
ModerateCordillera

The Philippines' third‑highest peak famed for sea‑of‑clouds sunrises. Multiple trails through dwarf bamboo grasslands.

Turquoise Mt. Pinatubo crater lake surrounded by cliffs
Mt. Pinatubo Crater Lake
EasyCentral Luzon

Scenic lahar 4×4 approach and short hike to a turquoise crater lake formed after the 1991 eruption. Day‑hike classic.

Jagged green hills of Osmeña Peak with sea in distance
Osmeña Peak
EasyCentral Visayas

Cebu's highest peak with jagged limestone hills and sea views. Short hike from Mantalongon, great at sunrise.

Mt. Apo summit boulder field above clouds
Mt. Apo
StrenuousDavao / Soccsksargen

The Philippines' highest peak. Multi‑day, physically demanding trek through mossy forests, boulder fields, and sulfur vents.

Cloud 9 boardwalk and surf lineup in Siargao
Siargao – Cloud 9 and Surrounds
ModerateCaraga

Philippines’ surf capital with the world‑famous Cloud 9 right‑hand reef break, nearby learners’ spots, island charm, and vibrant scene.

La Union beach break with surfers
La Union – Urbiztondo and North
EasyIlocos

Country's most popular beginner‑friendly beach‑break scene with a strong surf culture, cafes, and easy Manila access.

Baler Sabang beach break
Baler – Sabang and Cemento
ModerateCentral Luzon

Birthplace of Philippine surf. Sabang Beach for learners, Cemento Reef (Cobra) for experienced on proper swells.

Zambales beach surf scene
Zambales – San Narciso, San Felipe, San Antonio
EasyCentral Luzon

Weekend surf escape with beach breaks and playful points. Liwa (San Felipe) and Crystal Beach (San Narciso) are popular hubs.

Pagudpud Blue Lagoon surf
Pagudpud – Saud and Blue Lagoon
ModerateIlocos

Northern Luzon’s scenic coves with seasonal surf. Blue Lagoon can reel on strong Amihan; Saud Beach offers mellow days.

Kawasan Falls turquoise pool in Cebu
Kawasan Falls (Cebu)
ModerateCentral Visayas

Iconic turquoise multi‑tiered falls in Badian. Swim at the main basins or join the regulated canyoneering down the Kanlaob/Badian river.

Tinuy‑an Falls wide cascade with bamboo raft
Tinuy‑an Falls (Surigao del Sur)
EasyCaraga

A wide multi‑tiered curtain waterfall in Bislig, dubbed the “Little Niagara of the Philippines.” Raft to the falls and explore upper decks.

Cambugahay Falls tiers and rope swing
Cambugahay Falls (Siquijor)
EasyCentral Visayas

Tiered turquoise pools with rope swings and shallow wades near Lazi. One of Siquijor’s most photogenic spots.

Maria Cristina Falls viewed from deck
Maria Cristina Falls (Iligan)
EasyNorthern Mindanao

Majestic twin‑path cascade powering a hydroelectric plant. Viewed from designated decks within NPC Nature Park—no swimming.