Who doesn’t want an exhilarating Instagram feed that is not just visually pleasing but showcases your greatest adventures all at once? Promising a plethora of Insta-worthy photo ops, Philippines leaves holidaymakers endlessly enamored!
From marooned slicks of sand amidst the pristine blue ocean, to smoldering volcanic fantasy (e)scapes screening hidden lagoons, to bustling megacities enriched with graffiti-splashed jeepneys, the Philippines is an Island hopping paradise that has become every Insta-lovers’ guilty pleasure.
But before you set out your voyage to this beautiful country, check out our list of 7 secret yet most photogenic places to stay in the Philippines!
1. Masbate
Widely regarded as the “Rodeo Capital of the Philippines”, Masbate greets you with its sprawling ranches and lush green meadows. But, make no mistake — it isn’t just a cowboy country. Surrounded by water on three sides, it allows you to connect with Mother Nature amidst stunning beaches, and premier dive sites.
READ: VISTA DE PUENTE BEACH RESORT, BATANGAS
That’s not all; with spectacular sights of diverse fauna and flora in the backdrop, you’re guaranteed drool-worthy Insta photo ops. And not to mention, you get to fill your vacation days relaxing and soaking the town’s natural beauty!
Recommended Place to stay: Ranchelle hotel & resort
2. Northern Samar
While it may not be as popular as other tourist hotspots in the country, ‘Northern Samar’ is one of the best-kept secrets of the Philippines that is slowly & surely paving its way into traveler’s bucket list, and for good reasons.
And with dramatic sunset views, crystal-clear waters, impressive rock formations and the night sky that makes you reflect on the ones, Northern Samar offers not just a thrilling adventure but some stunning photo-ops that you can cherish for a lifetime.
Recommended Place to stay: Anbero INN, Catarman
3. Tawi-Tawi
Yearning for a cool, picturesque getaway far off from the tourist radar? Here’s a beautiful pearl (island) in the Philippine water world— brimming with oozing, postcard-worthy sights.
While this archipelago is by far the most remote regions of the country, it offers once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore untouched island beaches, unexploited dive sites, and many other rejuvenating attractions that are still in their pristine, virgin form.
P.S. As an added bonus, you will get to snap hundreds of colorful and interesting photographs as you immerse yourself in the local culture.
Recommended Place to stay: Rachel’s Place Hotel & Restaurant
4. Maligcong Rice Terraces, Bontoc
Come home to the bustling market town of Bontoc with the breath-taking Maligcong rice terraces. Regarded as one of the most stunning underrated gems nestled within the heart of the country, this 200-year old man-made spectacle leaves you awe-inspired by its splendid formations, divine ambiance, and verdant rice paddies.
READ: Playa La Caleta: Bataan’s Hidden Treasure
And, did we mention that you’ve got to cross five grandiose mountains to get there? An Insta-worthy adventure in itself too!
Recommended Place to stay: Sagada Heritage Village Hotel
5. Gihulngan city, Negros Oriental
Explore the unspoiled beaches, rugged mountainside, and majestic underwater coral gardens as you base yourself in the city of Gihulngan.
Most importantly, it boasts of its special version of Bohol’s Chocolate Hills but also prides itself on an enchanted river to keep your camera rolling. Isn’t it like hitting two birds with one stone?!
READ: STAYCATION: Bataan White Corals Beach Resort
P.S. After a refreshing stay in Gihulngan, you can hop on a bus to explore all that Negros has to offer and capture the Philippine countryside in its true glory.
Recommended Place to stay: The Blue Orchid Resort
6. Siquijor
While it might be a tiny island province, Siquijor is a secretive, one of its kind Instagrammable destination that is brimming with witchcraft, spiritual rituals, and of course plenty of serene BEACHES!
Once you set your feet (and cameras :P) on this island province, you cannot only enjoy a wonderfully affordable and laidback lifestyle but also collect memorable pictures as you relish a snorkel in its crystal clear waters, take a plunge in one of its natural waterfalls or simply enjoy a serene walk around its hilly interior.
Recommended Place to stay: Blue Wave Inn
7. Port Barton, Palawan
Want to bid a nature-filled retreat to your eyes and #Insta Fam? Make your way to one of Philippines most underrated treasures – Port Barton. Essentially a two-road town where the thick tropical forests drop precipitously into the bay, Port Barton serves drool-worthy photo ops ranging from sun-kissed golden beaches to impeccably clean waters and not-to-miss sunsets.
P.S. Did you know that this stunning beach town of Port Barton also makes for an incredible dive site, promising spectacular views of colorful corals and sea creatures?
Recommended Places to Stay:
Gilligans Port Barton Palawan
Port Barton Homestay
Peace and Love Resort
Sunset Beach Resort
Foxy’s Beach Resort
Check more BUDGET ACCOMMODATIONS here
