Island Hopping Through the Philippines: An 11-Day Luxury Escape

Arrive in Manila and settle into your hotel before beginning your Philippine adventure. I recommend spending your first two nights in either Makati or Bonifacio Global City, where you’ll find excellent restaurants, luxury hotels, and a great introduction to the country. After a long flight, take the afternoon to relax, enjoy a leisurely dinner, and ease into island time.

Spend today discovering the rich history of Manila. Wander through Intramuros, the historic walled city, visit Fort Santiago, admire San Agustin Church, and learn about the country’s Spanish colonial past. Stop for a traditional Filipino lunch before returning to your hotel. Manila is often overlooked in favor of the islands, but I think spending a full day here provides valuable context before heading to the beaches.

Fly to Boracay and transfer to your resort. While White Beach is famous for its lively atmosphere, I recommend staying on the quieter side of the island at Shangri-La Boracay. Set on its own private peninsula, the resort offers secluded beaches, exceptional dining, and a peaceful retreat while still being close enough to explore the island. Spend the afternoon settling into your surroundings before enjoying dinner overlooking the water.

Although Boracay is known for its stunning beaches, I encourage clients to experience a little of the island’s culture as well. Visit the Motag Living Museum to learn about traditional Filipino village life through farming demonstrations, cooking, and local customs before spending the afternoon relaxing back at the resort. It’s a wonderful reminder that there’s more to Boracay than beautiful beaches.

Today you’ll fly to El Nido, one of the most spectacular island destinations I’ve ever visited. Simply arriving feels like part of the experience, with dramatic limestone cliffs rising from crystal-clear water as your boat approaches the resort. After checking into Pangulasian Island Resort, spend the afternoon enjoying the beach, kayaking, or simply soaking in the incredible surroundings.

Today is all about exploring Bacuit Bay, where towering limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, and powder-soft beaches create one of the world’s most spectacular island landscapes. One of the highlights is Entalula Beach, recently named the World’s Best Beach. With its crystal-clear turquoise water, dramatic limestone formations, and pristine white sand, it’s easy to understand why. Spend the day island hopping by boat, snorkeling, kayaking, and enjoying some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Philippines.

Don’t overplan today.

Pangulasian Island Resort was one of my favorite hotels I’ve ever stayed at, and it’s worth allowing time to simply enjoy it. Relax by the pool, indulge in a spa treatment, paddle a kayak from the beach, or enjoy a leisurely lunch overlooking the ocean. Sometimes the greatest luxury is having nowhere you need to be.

Fly to Panglao Island in Bohol, another destination that offers a completely different perspective of the Philippines. After checking into your beachfront resort, spend the afternoon relaxing by the pool or taking a walk along the beach before enjoying dinner featuring fresh local seafood.

Today's boat excursion was one of the highlights of my trip. Cruise to Pamilacan and Balicasag Islands, where you’ll have the opportunity to spot dolphins, snorkel vibrant coral reefs, and swim alongside sea turtles. The marine life here is extraordinary, making this one of the best snorkeling experiences in the Philippines.

While Bohol is famous for its beaches, its interior is equally impressive. Visit the iconic Chocolate Hills, stop at the Tarsier Sanctuary to see one of the world’s smallest primates, and enjoy lunch while cruising along the emerald-green Loboc River. It’s the perfect balance to the beach-focused portion of the itinerary.

Return to Manila for your onward flight home. If your schedule allows, consider spending another night in the capital before departing or extending your trip to another island such as Coron or Siargao. After experiencing just four of the Philippines’ more than 7,000 islands, you’ll quickly realize each destination has its own personality—and you’ll almost certainly leave already planning your return.