Welcome to www.IslandHopping.Tours: Your Gateway to the Best Islands in the Philippines

1. Balabac: The Rustic Maldives of the Philippines

When it comes to unspoiled, otherworldly beaches, Balabac is at the top of many travelers’ wish lists. Located at the southernmost tip of Palawan, this group of 31 islands and islets is often compared to the Maldives for its soft white sands, luminous turquoise waters, and remote sandbars that emerge at low tide. Yet Balabac remains a relatively hidden gem, offering an off-the-grid vibe for those seeking an alternative to pricier, more commercialized beach destinations.

Why Balabac for Island Hopping Tour Packages?

Balabac’s raw beauty sets it apart as a must-explore destination. There are few resorts, and infrastructure is still developing, which means the islands retain their pristine character. For those who relish immersion in nature, Balabac’s unassuming ambiance and budget-friendly rates make it an enticing substitute for luxury-driven spots like the Maldives.

• Pristine Beaches: Expect powdery-white sand that almost glows under the tropical sun. Sandbars such as Ramos Island Sandbar and Canibungan Island Sandbar leave visitors spellbound.
• Crystal-Clear Waters: Balabac’s coastlines are unbelievably clear, making it easy to spot marine life like sea turtles, colorful reef fish, and various species of starfish.
• Budget-Friendly Adventures: Typical island hopping tours here cost less than in major tourist centers, and while accommodations are basic, the experience is undeniably authentic.

Best Time to Visit

Balabac enjoys a tropical climate with a generally hot and humid environment. The best time to schedule your Island Hopping Tour Packages in Balabac is during the dry season, typically November to May. During these months, boat transfers are smoother, and the sandbars reveal themselves more often due to calmer seas and less rainfall.

Island Hopping Highlights

• Onok Island: Considered the crown jewel of Balabac, Onok Island is renowned for its mesmerizing lagoon, teeming with rich marine life suitable for snorkeling.
• Candaraman Island: A paradise for starfish sightings, Candaraman’s shallow waters are a marine lover’s dream.
• Patawan Island: Boasting a sandbar that emerges during low tide, this spot provides spectacular photo opportunities and a chance to frolic on glittering sands in solitude.

Travel Tips and What Sets Balabac Apart

Keep in mind that Balabac is not as developed as other tourist areas. Electricity can be limited, and accommodations often consist of homestays or simple beach huts. However, this is part of the charm: Balabac offers a rare sense of isolation and natural purity. In addition, local island hopping tours often include freshly cooked meals and knowledgeable guides who can navigate the tidal patterns and hidden reefs.

For travelers who crave a rustic, untouched, and surprisingly wallet-friendly escape, Balabac stands out as the Philippines’ best-kept secret—an accessible version of the Maldives, but with a distinctly Filipino warmth and hospitality.

2. Boracay: Beyond the Party Paradise

No list of Philippine island destinations would be complete without mentioning Boracay. Once known primarily for its nightlife and bustling shoreline, Boracay has undergone extensive rehabilitation efforts in recent years to preserve its natural beauty. Today, it shines as a more eco-conscious hub featuring a wide range of leisure activities—far more than just partying.

Why Boracay for Island Hopping Tour Packages?

Boracay’s iconic White Beach remains a crown jewel, yet the island hopping scene also offers a fresh perspective. Adventurers can visit neighboring islets, snorkel sites, and cliff-diving spots, discovering that Boracay is more than its famed beachfront. Additionally, the local government’s commitment to regulated tourism ensures that travelers can enjoy cleaner shores, improved wastewater management, and a better overall environment.

Island Hopping Highlights

• Crocodile Island: Don’t be alarmed by the name—there are no real crocodiles here, only reefs shaped like one. This is a prime snorkeling site brimming with colorful corals and diverse marine species.
• Puka Beach: Located on Boracay’s northern tip, Puka Beach is quieter than White Beach, providing a relaxing stop during island hopping tours. Its sand is coarser, mixed with crushed puka shells.
• Crystal Cove: This privately owned islet offers cave explorations and vantage points overlooking Boracay’s azure waters. Visitors can explore small rock formations and enjoy short treks for panoramic views.

Best Time to Visit

The prime season for Boracay is November to May (the dry season), with December to April being the busiest months. January and February usually bring ideal wind conditions for water sports like kiteboarding on Bulabog Beach. Visiting off-peak can yield fewer crowds and more budget-friendly prices for accommodations.

What Sets Boracay Apart

Boracay’s fame might precede it, but the island’s transformation into a more sustainable destination sets it on a new path. Local businesses are gradually adopting eco-friendly practices, and daily tourist capacity is now regulated. This ensures that both present and future visitors can admire Boracay’s turquoise waters and vibrant nightlife without compromising its environmental integrity.

Beyond beach parties, travelers will find a variety of water sports, wellness retreats, and gastronomic adventures. Boracay’s unique blend of modern comforts and paradise-like charm continues to make it a staple for Island Hopping Tour Packages in the Philippines.

3. Coron: Sunken Ships and Limestone Marvels

Set within the Calamian Islands in northern Palawan, Coron is famed for its diverse underwater world, dotted with sunken Japanese warships from World War II. Above the surface, dramatic limestone cliffs and emerald lakes create surreal panoramas that captivate travelers at first glance.

Why Coron for Island Hopping Tour Packages?

Few destinations offer the dual wonders of shipwreck dives and pristine, emerald-green lagoons quite like Coron does. Divers flock here for some of the world’s best wreck diving sites, while non-divers enjoy a breathtaking array of beaches, snorkeling spots, and scenic lake excursions.

Island Hopping Highlights

• Kayangan Lake: Often dubbed the “cleanest lake in the Philippines,” Kayangan Lake is characterized by clear brackish water set against dramatic limestone cliffs. The short trek to the viewpoint is a must for postcard-perfect photos.
• Twin Lagoon: Experience the meeting of saltwater and freshwater in a pair of lagoons separated by a towering rock formation. You can swim or snorkel through a small crevice (or climb a ladder during high tide).
• Siete Pecados Marine Park: A cluster of seven islets off the coast of Coron Town, offering vibrant coral gardens and abundant marine life—ideal for snorkeling enthusiasts.
• Wreck Diving: From beginner-friendly spots like the Skeleton Wreck to deeper dives such as Irako and Akitsushima, Coron’s underwater relics fascinate history buffs and diving pros alike.

Best Time to Visit

Similar to other parts of Palawan, the dry season from November to May is optimal for Coron. March to May sees calmer waters, making boat rides and dive conditions more enjoyable. Travelers aiming to avoid crowds might consider visiting just before or after peak months (November or early June).

What Sets Coron Apart

Coron’s unique combination of shipwreck diving, brackish lakes, and scenic rock formations is unparalleled. Few places offer such a wide spectrum of experiences: from hauntingly beautiful underwater shipwreck explorations to tranquil freshwater lakes nestled between towering karsts. Even the dining scene in Coron Town has diversified, offering local favorites like fresh seafood and international cuisines for weary island-hoppers at the end of a sun-kissed day.

4. El Nido: The Gateway to Palawan’s Iconic Limestone Towers

If there’s one Philippine destination that has graced countless travel magazines and social media feeds, it’s El Nido. Located in the northernmost tip of mainland Palawan, El Nido is a haven of towering limestone karsts, hidden lagoons, and pristine beaches. The region’s iconic archipelagos have sparked worldwide acclaim, solidifying El Nido as a top contender for Island Hopping Tour Packages.

Why El Nido for Island Hopping Tour Packages?

El Nido’s dramatic landscapes, carved by millennia of geological processes, present a dreamlike setting that captures the hearts of adventurers and leisure-seekers alike. Its main draws are “Tours A, B, C, D,” standardized boat tours that explore must-see spots such as Small Lagoon, Big Lagoon, Hidden Beach, and Secret Beach.

Island Hopping Highlights

• Small and Big Lagoons: The signature experience in El Nido, these lagoons are enveloped by soaring limestone walls. Kayaking through the calm waters is surreal, especially when the tide is high.
• Shimizu Island: A frequent lunch stop for island hopping tours, Shimizu boasts crystal-clear waters brimming with tropical fish.
• Entalula Island: Famous for its towering rock formations and powdery sand, it’s an idyllic spot for beach-bumming, snorkeling, and snapping photos.
• Secret Lagoon and Hidden Beach: Access these secluded gems by swimming through small openings in the limestone walls, unveiling hidden pockets of pure wonder.

Best Time to Visit

As with most of Palawan, November to May offers pleasant weather conducive to smooth boat rides and clear skies. If you can handle the summer heat, March to May sees calmer seas, fewer cancellations due to weather, and vibrant marine life near the reefs.

What Sets El Nido Apart

Its sheer volume of scenic islands and limestone outcrops is unmatched. Even among the world’s most stunning beaches, El Nido stands out for its dramatic karsts rising from emerald waters. The area also offers an array of accommodations—ranging from budget guesthouses to exclusive island resorts—catering to various travel styles. Nightlife is low-key but present, particularly along El Nido town’s beachside bars and restaurants.

For a quintessential Philippine island-hopping experience, El Nido consistently tops the list, exemplifying why Palawan is often dubbed the “Best Island in the World.”

5. San Vicente: The Emerging Beach Village Capital of the Philippines

San Vicente, a municipality in northwestern Palawan, is steadily transforming into the next big tourism hotspot. Often overshadowed by the fame of Puerto Princesa’s Underground River and the iconic destinations of El Nido, San Vicente holds its own appeal with the 14.7-kilometer Long Beach, scenic islands off its coast, and the laid-back vibe of Port Barton.

Why San Vicente for Island Hopping Tour Packages?

Branded as the “Beach Village Capital of the Philippines,” San Vicente boasts 10 barangays that each have beaches of at least 1 kilometer in length. This remarkable coastline diversity makes it a dream come true for beach aficionados. Moreover, San Vicente’s strategic location allows visitors to combine multiple experiences: you can venture to the UNESCO-listed Underground River near Puerto Princesa, or head north for a quick trip to El Nido.

Island Hopping Highlights

Within San Vicente, Port Barton is arguably the star attraction for island hopping. The charming fishing village atmosphere sets the stage for a tranquil getaway. Typical tours around Port Barton include stops at:

• German Island (Inaladelan): A well-known picnic and camping site featuring calm waters perfect for snorkeling. Sea turtles are often spotted grazing on seagrass here.
• Paradise Island: True to its name, Paradise Island is a slice of tropical heaven where you can lounge on fine sand and swim in clear waters.
• Exotic Island: Known for vibrant coral gardens, making it ideal for snorkeling enthusiasts seeking an up-close view of reef fish and sea life.
• Twin Reef: A highly rated snorkeling spot with coral formations teeming with aquatic life, from clownfish to various species of angelfish and tangs.

Beyond Port Barton, the vast expanse of Long Beach draws travelers who crave wide, uncrowded shorelines. Meanwhile, smaller, off-the-radar beaches in other barangays promise an immersive and serene experience unmatched by more commercialized beach towns.

Best Time to Visit

The optimum window for island hopping in San Vicente aligns with Palawan’s dry season (November to May). The months from December to February often offer cooler temperatures, making beach strolls along Long Beach or day trips to Port Barton more comfortable.

What Sets San Vicente Apart

San Vicente’s primary draw lies in its understated charm and immense potential for exploration. As an emerging destination, it provides a laid-back alternative to bustling El Nido or Coron. Its strategic position allows for integrated tours that could include the Underground River in Puerto Princesa and even day trips up to El Nido—ideal for those aiming to maximize their Palawan journey.

For travelers seeking vast beaches where crowds are minimal—and who want the flexibility to explore additional attractions—San Vicente is quickly becoming a top choice in Island Hopping Tour Packages across Palawan.

6. Gigantes Island: Limestone Cliffs and Epic Sandbars

The Gigantes Islands, also called Islas de Gigantes, lie off the coast of Carles in Iloilo, in the Western Visayas region. While not as globally renowned as Boracay or El Nido, this archipelago has gained traction among local and international travelers seeking less-touristy, spectacular seascapes. Rugged limestone cliffs, dramatic rock formations, and pristine sandbars mark the allure of Gigantes.

Why Gigantes for Island Hopping Tour Packages?

One of the major draws of Gigantes is the Cabugao Gamay Island, whose iconic viewpoint has graced thousands of social media posts, capturing the island’s crescent-shaped beach and lush vegetation. Beyond that, fresh seafood—especially scallops—is abundant and dirt-cheap, adding a culinary dimension to the island-hopping experience.

Island Hopping Highlights

• Cabugao Gamay: The poster image for Gigantes tourism, it features a scenic vantage point atop rock outcrops. Beach lovers can enjoy the two sides of the island connected by a narrow sandbar.
• Antonia Beach: A favorite for snorkeling, kayaking, and banana boat rides. The area’s tranquility makes it perfect for lazy afternoons under coconut palms.
• Tangke Lagoon: Enclosed by jagged limestone cliffs, this hidden lagoon fills with turquoise water, providing a secluded swimming spot at high tide.
• Pulupandan Island: A small sandbar adorned with a lone coconut tree, offering an excellent photo-op and the sense of being marooned on a deserted islet.

Best Time to Visit

For the Gigantes Islands, consider traveling between November and May to avoid heavy rains and rough seas. The summer months (March to May) showcase calmer seas, making your boat rides less bumpy. If you aim to catch the famed seafood, note that scallops are generally available year-round, but it’s best to confirm availability with local tour operators.

What Sets Gigantes Apart

Gigantes Islands remain a somewhat hidden paradise, offering an unpolished, rustic charm in contrast to more developed sites. Tourist traffic is moderate, allowing you to revel in the raw beauty of limestone cliffs and pristine sandbars without overwhelming crowds. Plus, the seafood scene—especially the staple of unlimited scallops—turns the island-hopping journey into a gastronomic adventure.

7. Siargao: Surf’s Up and Island Hopping Delights

Famous for its Cloud 9 surf break, Siargao is located in the province of Surigao del Norte in Mindanao. Although it has garnered attention as the “Surfing Capital of the Philippines,” Siargao is far more than a destination for riding the waves. Its surrounding smaller islands, mangroves, and lagoons provide extraordinary opportunities for island hopping.

Why Siargao for Island Hopping Tour Packages?

Siargao blends a laid-back island vibe with enthralling natural wonders. Most visitors come for surfing, but they leave having discovered a labyrinth of islets, secret coves, and serene waters perfect for snorkeling or kayaking. Island hopping tours in Siargao often pair a day of water activities with the local “chill” culture—morning waves, midday feasts, and sunset dips.

Island Hopping Highlights

• Naked Island: True to its name, this small sandbar lacks any vegetation, offering nothing but pure white sand and sparkling waters.
• Daku Island: The largest among the three popular islets (Naked, Daku, Guyam), Daku hosts a small fishing community and is perfect for a grilled seafood feast.
• Guyam Island: A tiny, idyllic island covered in palm trees and ringed by coral reefs, providing excellent snorkeling spots.
• Sugba Lagoon (Del Carmen): Often part of a separate inland-and-island-hopping itinerary, Sugba Lagoon offers paddleboarding, kayaking, and the thrill of jumping off a diving platform into turquoise waters.

Best Time to Visit

Surfers often favor the months between August and November for bigger swells, but island hopping is generally best in the drier months from March to May when the seas are calmer. If you aim to balance surfing and island hopping, look into the transitional seasons (late February to early March, or late May to early June) for fewer crowds and decent wave conditions.

What Sets Siargao Apart

Siargao’s magnetic surf culture blends seamlessly with its lush inland ecosystems—mangroves, coconut forests, and hidden lagoons. The laid-back atmosphere invites travelers to unplug and immerse themselves in nature, whether by riding waves at Cloud 9 or exploring remote islets. It’s a destination that effortlessly combines adrenaline-pumping sports with leisurely island hopping pursuits.

8. Caramoan: Secluded Islands via the Gateway of Catanduanes

Caramoan in Camarines Sur shot to global fame after becoming a filming location for the “Survivor” TV franchise. Characterized by its lush limestone cliffs, unspoiled beaches, and hidden lagoons, Caramoan quickly gained traction among adventurers yearning for a wilder, less commercialized island escape.

Why Caramoan for Island Hopping Tour Packages?

Caramoan is renowned for being relatively under-the-radar, ensuring fewer crowds and a more exclusive feel to your island hopping experience. Although it can be reached directly from mainland Camarines Sur, an increasingly popular way to visit is through Catanduanes. This approach lets you enjoy Catanduanes’ own attractions—like Majestic Puraran Beach for surfing or the pristine lagoons of Lolong Point—before heading into Caramoan.

Island Hopping Highlights

• Matukad Island: Known for its fine white sand and a mysterious lake hidden behind limestone cliffs. Some stories speak of a local legend involving a giant fish guarding the lagoon.
• Lahos Island: Stunning twin beaches separated by towering rock formations. The island disappears during high tide, creating a surreal, ever-changing landscape.
• Cagadianao or Sabitang Laya: A large triangular sand beach that many consider the prime campsite for island-hoppers wanting to stay overnight in nature.
• Hunongan Cove: Enveloped by thick vegetation and limestone formations, providing a peaceful retreat for sunbathing and swimming.

Best Time to Visit

The Caramoan region experiences a tropical climate with drier conditions usually from March to May. However, Catanduanes is also known for being in the typhoon belt, so keep an eye on weather forecasts from June to October. Travel planning with some flexibility is advisable.

What Sets Caramoan Apart

Caramoan’s relatively remote location ensures that even at the height of tourism, its beaches are never as crowded as those of more mainstream destinations. The synergy of traveling through Catanduanes not only provides a gateway to Caramoan but also widens the array of adventures possible—surfing, exploring hidden coves, and partaking in local festivals. For an authentic slice of Bicol region’s untouched beauty, Caramoan delivers a wilderness-like island hopping experience that’s hard to replicate elsewhere.

9. Cebu: History, Culture, and Coastal Escapes

Arguably one of the Philippines’ most dynamic provinces, Cebu seamlessly blends rich historical heritage with modern urban conveniences and natural wonders. From the bustling metropolis of Cebu City—celebrated for its landmarks such as Magellan’s Cross and the Sto. Niño Basilica—to the stunning beaches of Bantayan and Malapascua Islands, Cebu offers a broad spectrum of travel experiences.

Why Cebu for Island Hopping Tour Packages?

Cebu’s central location in the archipelago makes it a convenient jump-off point for travelers looking to visit multiple parts of the Philippines. The province itself includes a range of island hopping opportunities: Malapascua (famous for thresher sharks), Bantayan (ideal for tranquil beaches), and nearby Mactan Island (known for water sports and reef dives).

Island Hopping Highlights

• Malapascua Island: A diver’s paradise, globally recognized for early-morning sightings of rare thresher sharks. Aside from diving, its laid-back beaches and smaller crowds make for a relaxed setting.
• Bantayan Island: Often compared to Boracay before its commercialization, Bantayan’s beaches are serene, with a slow-paced vibe conducive to unwinding.
• Mactan Island (Olango, Hilutungan, Nalusuan): A cluster of islets just off Cebu’s main international airport. Island hopping day tours typically stop by marine sanctuaries, offering excellent snorkeling opportunities.
• Moalboal and Pescador Island: On Cebu’s southwestern coast, Moalboal is famous for the sardine run, while Pescador Island features vibrant reef systems perfect for diving and snorkeling.

Best Time to Visit

Cebu welcomes visitors year-round, but the dry season from December to May is typically preferred for clearer skies and calmer seas. That said, if you’re diving in Malapascua, advanced booking is advised, especially during peak months like March and April.

What Sets Cebu Apart

In Cebu, island hopping converges with cultural exploration and gastronomic adventures. You can explore centuries-old Spanish colonial sites in Cebu City in the morning, then hop onto a boat for an island getaway by lunchtime. The diversity of experiences—historical, cultural, culinary, and marine—makes Cebu a microcosm of the Philippines’ multifaceted appeal.

10. Bohol: Chocolate Hills and Island Hopping Bliss

Bohol is celebrated for its Chocolate Hills—over a thousand symmetrical, haycock-shaped hills that turn brown during the dry season. But the province also boasts an enchanting coastline dotted with smaller islands ripe for exploration. Loboc River’s river cruises and tarsier sanctuaries add another layer of uniqueness to the Bohol experience.

Why Bohol for Island Hopping Tour Packages?

Bohol epitomizes diversity: from the inland wonders of the Chocolate Hills and the world’s smallest primates (tarsiers) to beaches and coral reefs teeming with marine life. If you’re seeking a blend of land-based and water-based adventures, Bohol delivers an all-in-one package.

Island Hopping Highlights

• Panglao Island: A tourism hub connected by bridge to Bohol’s mainland, Panglao is known for Alona Beach, scenic dive sites, and a range of accommodations.
• Balicasag Island: Arguably Bohol’s top snorkeling and diving spot, home to sea turtles, vibrant coral gardens, and a drop-off known as the Balicasag Marine Sanctuary.
• Virgin Island (Pungtud Island): A crescent-shaped sandbar that emerges at low tide, popular for fresh coconut juice and strolling across the pristine sands.

Best Time to Visit

The best conditions for island hopping around Bohol generally align with the dry months (December to May). December and January can be cooler, whereas March to May bring hotter days but clearer seas. Although the region can see rain year-round, strong typhoons are relatively less frequent compared to other parts of the Philippines.

What Sets Bohol Apart

Bohol’s appeal spans multiple interests: from the geological wonders of the Chocolate Hills to the enchanting wildlife (tarsiers), and from idyllic white-sand beaches to colorful reefs. It offers a comprehensive travel experience, balancing land-based excursions with world-class marine activities. Whether you seek a peaceful getaway or an active trip dotted with cultural stops, Bohol stands tall as one of the Philippines’ most versatile island-hopping destinations.