Consisting of more than 7,100 islands, the archipelago of the Philippines dishes out a plethora of tropical and island vibes. The sun-soaked life resonates among travelers desiring of a warm climate, white sands, crystal clear sea water that goes along a sultry setting under the sun. Being my home, I have traveled the Philippines extensively. I have met travelers from other parts of the globe who often extend their stay here. One German backpacker said “It is hard to leave, I need to go to Palawan, Siquijor, and the islands of Panay before I fly home”. Either you leave with a heavy heart or you extend your stay and explore further into this under-the-radar travel destination in the Far East.
To give you a glimpse of what I feel are some of the most beautiful islands in the world, I put together a few photographs on why you should go island hopping in the Philippines.
With islands scattered like flower petals from the North to South and in all directions, you will never run out of picture-perfect islands to chase. The islands of Batanes dishes a spectacular set of landscape consisting of rolling highlands, old towns, lush forests and almost deserted beach heads. Isolated, pristine and simply beautiful; what better way to start threading this archipelago nation than to start from this northern tip island.

The islands Batanes are situated in the northern tip of the Philippines © nomadicexperiences.com
Sandbars extended far and wide each time the tides lower during the day and adds a layer of allure in the many islands located all over the Philippines. One example of such is Kalanggaman Island which situates off the coast of Palompon, Leyte in the Visayas region.

Kalanggaman Island © nomadicexperiences.com
Lakes, lagoons, marine life, island life and what-haves are a common sighting in the island of Palawan. A month here is not enough because of the immense number of must-see places.

Kayangan Lake in Coron, Palawan © nomadicexperiences.com

Crystal clear waters everywhere you look © nomadicexperiences.com
Hop to other islands to pitch a tent under pine trees and over soft white sands. See the different characteristics of what Mother Nature can offer; the mangroves, the forests, the limestone karsts and the abundant underwater life.

A 2 hour boat ride over the Pacific Ocean brings you to Calaguas Island. Just one of the many barenaked islands in the country © nomadicexperiences.com

and while you’re at it – island hopping – taste some local cuisine featuring what the sea can offer such as big lobsters © nomadicexperiences.com
Over or under the water, the visual banquet never stops. The Philippines is a known scuba diver’s haven where one can find numerous diving spots all over the archipelago.

© Wowie Wong of Studio H20
Other than lounging by the beach all day; one can also experience all sorts of water-based activities such as diving, snorkeling, kayaking, kite-surfing, surfing and partying.

A Russian tourist watches the kite-surfing action in Boracay Island © nomadicexperiences.com

Isolated coves that instantly hides you from the rest of the world such as this one from Calayan Island, North of Luzon © nomadicexperiences.com

and experience local island culture such as this festival held at Cobrador Island in Romblon © nomadicexperiences.com
The Philippines is a diverse country with some of the most remarkable beaches in the world, and these slices of paradise should be on every travel junkie’s bucket list.
Photo Credits: Nomadic Experiences and Studio H20