5 underrated Philippine beach destinations to get some much-needed quiet time
By NIKA ROQUE, GMA Integrated News Published March 21, 2024 11:02am Philippine summer season has kicked in, and it’s safe to say that at this time of the year, everybody is in need of a vacation on a quiet beach far away from the city. The options are endless with more than 7,000 islands across […]
Tomas Kauer - News Moderator 
By NIKA ROQUE, GMA Integrated News
Philippine summer season has kicked in, and it’s safe to say that at this time of the year, everybody is in need of a vacation on a quiet beach far away from the city.
The options are endless with more than 7,000 islands across the archipelago. But to be in true, do-not-disturb mode, here are five beach destinations across the Philippines that are underrated, and therefore not too crowded.
1. Puraran Beach, Catanduanes
Puraran Beach in Catanduanes is a surf spot where both beginners and advanced surfers can have fun. There are calmer waves behind the rock formations, plus larger ones that reach up to six feet tall.
With a surf spot facing the Pacific Ocean, island visitors are treated to clear waves, golden sand, as well as stunning coral reefs.
Aside from water activities, guests can also take part in camping.
How to get there: Take a flight to Virac Airport in Catanduanes. Take a tricycle to the seaport and then a van to Puraran Beach.
2. Liwa, Zambales
Liwa beach in Zambales is growing to be a popular beach destination, but the island’s heart and soul remain unpertrubed.
What makes Liwa so special are its spacious beach to lounge on, waves perfect for surfing and skimboarding, stunning sunsets, and small local-owned cafes with delicious food and drinks.
How to get there: Take a bus to Olongapo. From there, take another bus to San Felipe, Zambales. In the town, take a trike straight to Liwa.
PHOTO: NIKA ROQUE/GMA INTEGRATE NEWS
3. Maniwaya Island, Marinduque
Maniwaya Island is a scenic island paradise in Marinduque that is definitely well worth the long trip.
Its white sand beach is located between Polo Island and Mompong Island.
A must-visit is the Palad Sandbar, where visitors can see crushed coral sand in the middle during low tide. There is also a lovely coral garden beneath the sandbar, perfect for those who enjoy sightseeing under the sea.
How to get there: By air, take a flight to Marinduque Airport. Take a taxi or commute to Santa Cruz, and then commute to Buyabod Port. From there, board a boat to Maniwaya Island.
By land, take a bus to Lucena Grand Terminal in Quezon Province. From there, take a bus or van to General Luna Port. Take a passenger boat to Maniwaya Island.
4. Natago Beach, Guimaras
Talk about underrated for some DND time.
Natago Beach is literally a hidden beach in Jordan, Guimaras. Although it is a stop on island-hopping tours from Alubihod Beach, it is an ideal destination for those who want to avoid the crowds. It is a perfect island for lounging and enjoying clear waters.
Guimaras is also best known for their mangoes, so snacking on some under the sun sounds like the best vacation.
How to get there: Take a flight to Iloilo City. Take a taxi to Ortiz Wharf, which has boats bound for Jordan Wharf. From Jordan Wharf, take a trike to Alubihod Beach, Nueva Valencia. Then take an island hopping tour to Natago Beach.
5. Pink Sand Beach, Zamboanga
The Pink Sand Beach in Santa Cruz Island, Zamboanga looks straight out of a dream!
This small island boasts pink sand, a product of red organ pipe coral crushed by the waves. This island is definitely a must-visit for lounging, swimming, and taking in the lovely colors.
How to get there: Take a flight to Zamboanga City and then head to Paseo Del Mar. From there, take a motorized boat to Santa Cruz Island.
— LA, GMA Integrated News
