The Philippine Islands are most popular during the dry season, between November and April when there’s the least rainfall and clearest weather. Islands here are known for their pristine white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and lush greenery. By Lightfoot Travel
Boasting over 7,000 stunning tropical islands, the Philippines is an ideal family destination, but which one should you head for?
BORACAY For Outdoorsy Fun
The beaches in Boracay are some of the best in the Philippines, but for those who want more from their holiday than just remaining horizontal, plenty of family-friendly activities also await. Parasailing, zorbing, banana boat rides, glass bottom boats, kayaking – the options are endless. A trip to the Bat Cave to see the Old World Flying Foxes is a unique experience, and climbing Mount Luho to view the local wildlife makes for both an educational and exhilarating day out.
Stay: Shangri-La Boracay has one and two bedroom villas that are fabulous for families. Their Kid’s Club is also superb, providing parents with some much-needed alone time while the children play.
PALAWAN For Water-Based Adventures
If your little ones are fans of bathtime then plan a trip to Palawan. Remote, beautiful and wonderfully relaxing, it’s also a brilliant spot for water babies. Swimming, snorkelling and general splashing about is the name of the game here, and kayaking through the spectacular underground river – the world’s longest that winds through a cave – is a don’t miss. To truly make the most of the pristine waters, we recommend island hopping around nearby Snake Island, Pandan Island and Starfish Island.
Stay: Pangulasian Island Resort is a magical hideaway in Bacuit Bay offering luxurious surroundings and total sophistication. While there’s no kids’ club, children are most welcome, and they’ll love the infinity pool and close proximity to the white powder beach.
BOHOL For Culture & Cool
It would be easy to spend all of your time on the sweeping beaches on Bohol, but you’d be missing so much! This pretty island is also famous for its Chocolate Hills – all 1,200 of them that go on for miles – and were (according to legend) formed by the tears of a broken-hearted giant! There’s also a beautiful butterfly sanctuary, nature trails, the Bohol Bee Farm, secret lagoons just waiting to be discovered, and to-die-for ice-cream at the Buzz cafe.
CEBU For A Beachy Escape
Cebu is the perfect destination for families searching for paradise. The island is resort-orientated, but there are loads of opportunities for island hopping for those looking to venture out, and the snorkelling and diving are great. The Jumalon Butterfly Sanctuary and the Cebu Happy World Museum – which is full of surrealist art – both provide some amusing Instagram moments, too!
SIARGAO ISLAND For Nature & Activities
Unspoilt beaches – with the famous Cloud 9 break on one side and thick mangrove swamps on the other – are what makes Siargao so special. If wearing your children out is on your agenda, trek through forests to powerful waterfalls in the morning, take a surf lesson in the afternoon and watch the sunset from the breezy terrace of your barefoot luxury resort while they sleep in the evening.
Stay: At Dedon Island, fun awaits for all ages in the shape of stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking and snorkelling. At the Children’s Village your little ones can run around to their heart’s content, and as it’s an all-inclusive resort, you get no surprise bills when you leave!
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Lightfoot Travel is a Singapore-based tour operator specialising in designer holidays to countries spanning all seven continents.
