Melo Villareal
11 Fantastic Philippine Beaches for Fun Barkada Trips
Beaches are the most flexible holiday getaways. They offer a broad spectrum of seaside activities suitable for all kinds of tourists, and most beaches have inexpensive or no entrance fees. This means that beaches are the best tourist destinations for fun barkada trips. Because beaches are perfect for everyone, even our stingiest, most silent friends to our most unthrift, hyperactive friends can enjoy.
Beaches for Fun Barkada Trips
Based on Expedia Beach Tool – an interactive Philippine beaches map that provides helpful information, here are the Tropical Beaches recommended for Fun Barkada Trips. You can also book hotels and other deals on the website.
There are many beaches in the Philippine archipelago, and each beach has its own perks. So if you are planning to go on a trip sometime soon with your group of friends, and you’re having a hard time looking for the perfect beaches among the 7,641 islands in the Philippines, look no further.
Burot Beach in Batangas
This beach is perfect for camping, chilling out, and eating potluck meals. Don’t expect resorts or convenience stores around, so bring enough battery, food, energy, and your group of friends. Be sure to take a dip in Burot Beach’s cool waters just before the sun sets, and when nighttime comes, put up a bonfire and roast some marshmallows, or maybe try grilling too.
Also read: 14 Amazing Beaches in Batangas to Visit for Summertime
Malapascua Island in Cebu
If your friends love staying underwater rather than staying under the sun, then you should never miss Malapascua Island. Malapascua Island is one of the best diving spots in the country, and its high frequency of Thresher Shark sightings makes this beach golden. Aside from the Thresher Sharks, you can also expect to see various types of shrimps, pipefishes, and other colorful marine life forms.
Also Read: Malapascua Island: Backpacker Weekend
Samal Island in Davao
Known as the “Island Garden City of Samal,” this enchanting beach island offers a serene escape for weary urban dwellers seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its pristine shores and lush greenery, it’s the perfect backdrop for relaxation and rejuvenation. For those looking to immerse themselves in local culture, visiting in May grants you the opportunity to experience the vibrant Kabasan Festival, celebrated with lively music and colorful displays. In August, the Hugyaw Madayaw Festival showcases the island’s rich heritage through traditional dances and festivities. Additionally, you might stumble upon the captivating White Nights Festival, an enchanting celebration that occurs every two days, filling the nights with joy and excitement. After soaking up the sun on the sandy beaches, joining in the lively festivities adds an exhilarating twist to your getaway.
Also read: Samal Island Beach Resorts with the Highest Traveler Ratings
Camiguin Island in Camiguin
Gather your friends for an unforgettable adventure to Camiguin Island’s breathtaking Katibawasan Falls. While it may not be a traditional beach setting, the enchanting pool at the base of the falls, beautifully adorned with vibrant orchids and lush ferns, promises a slice of paradise that will leave you spellbound. The journey may pose its challenges, but the stunning views and refreshing waters that await will make every step worthwhile. If a rugged trek isn’t your style, plan your visit to coincide with the lively Lanzones Festival in October. Indulge in the sweet, juicy bites of freshly picked lanzones, and share laughter and memories with friends as you savor these delicious treats along the serene seaside.
Also Read: The Mystique of Camiguin’s White Island
Mactan Island in Cebu
Being a coral island is Mactan Island’s most defining characteristic. However, aside from snorkeling and diving, your friends can also engage in watersports. This island is just a few kilometers from mainland Cebu and has a lot of tourist spots that your friends can visit. Try snorkeling in San Vicente Marine Sanctuary on Olango Island, and bring an underwater camera to create an entire album of colorful marine life.
Boracay Island in Aklan
Renowned as one of the most iconic beaches in the world, Boracay Island offers an exhilarating array of activities perfect for your barkada. Picture yourselves gliding across the turquoise waters while windsurfing or feeling the adrenaline rush as you soar high above the waves while parasailing. For the adventurous, kiteboarding and cliff diving are thrilling options that promise unforgettable memories.
If you prefer a more laid-back experience, unwinding at a charming seaside restaurant while savoring fresh seafood and tropical drinks is a perfect way to relax and catch up with friends. Plus, for those who love capturing moments, Boracay Island is a treasure trove of Instagram-worthy spots, featuring stunning sunsets, powdery white sand, and vibrant local scenery, creating the perfect backdrop for countless pictures.
Also Read: Ultimate Boracay Travel Guide
Panglao Island in Bohol
Although there are many activities for barkadas here on Panglao Island, diving is one of the most preferred beach activities here. Home to colorful schools of fish and corals, Panglao Island’s underwater world will show you Philippine biodiversity at its finest. If you’re not a fan of diving, the island has plenty of white sand beaches to stay in. These include Alona Beach, Dumaulan Beach, and Libaong Beach.
Also Read: Ultimate Bohol Travel Guide
Siargao Island in Surigao de Norte
Come to Siargao Island in July through November and be prepared to shout “cowabunga!”. Siargao is known as the Surfing Capital of the Philippines, and regardless of your skill level in surfing, it’s the perfect place to go for a unique barkada trip by the sea. Watch other surfers or learn how to surf yourself. If you’re lucky enough, you can chance upon the world-renowned Cloud 9 wave.
El Nido in Palawan
If you have an energetic group of friends, and if they’re always “go na go” for all sorts of adventures, go to El Nido. El Nido’s beaches aren’t just for relaxation. Mountain biking, kayaking, or exciting island hopping trips are some things you can do on El Nido’s beaches. If you’re booking a hotel in the inner area of El Nido, you can conclude the night by eating in its seafood restaurants.
Also Read: Ultimate List of Amazing Islands and Beaches in El Nido Palawan
Honda Bay in Palawan
The next beach on this list is still situated in Palawan. Honda Bay, located on the eastern shore of mainland Palawan, is a body of water dotted with several islets, which include Starfish Island, named after its huge population of starfishes, and Luli Island, an island whose name is an amalgam for the Filipino expression “lulubog, lilitaw”, which means “sink and rise”. Book a tour, or rent a boat of your own and stay on each of the islets for the ultimate beach experience.
Puerto Galera in Oriental Mindoro
Puerto Galera’s long stretch of white sand beaches will surely serve as the perfect getaway for your barkada. However, suppose you don’t fancy swimming, restaurant hopping, or diving. In that case, you can also try going to Puerto Galera’s Tamaraw Falls and Tukuran River or ride on their famous Carabao taxi. There are plenty of fun barkada trips here on and off the beach.
Also Read: Adventures in Puerto Galera
Do you have other favorite beaches that should be included in this list? Share your comments below!
Follow Out of Town Travel Blog on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest if you want more travel and tech-related updates.
Read:
