Best Destinations in the Philippines

What makes the Philippines a top Asian destination for beach bums and thrill seekers? Claimed as the world’s center of marine biodiversity, the 7, 107 islands of the archipelagic nation offer an amazing range of water sports such as surfing – in addition to this perfect weather for surfers.

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Since it may be difficult to experience all of these populous and remote islands, we have listed the best surfing destinations in the Philippines that you shouldn’t miss.

San Juan, La Union

Also called the surfing Surfing Capital of the Northern Philippines, San Juan is known for its consistent quality surf that is perfect for long boarders. It is home to the Billabong San Juan Surf School of Luke Landrigan.

In terms of food and accommodation, there are a lot of restaurants and resorts in San Juan which are budget-friendly. Most surfers choose The Circle Hostel which is just 200 meters away from the beach. If you want to stay in an upscale boutique resort, Kahuna Beach Resort and Spa is the top choice of most tourists.

Sabang Beach and Charlie’s Point in Baler, Aurora

Baler is one of the most popular surf spots in the country. Just six to seven hours away from Manila, most surfers travel in groups and rent a van to minimize expenses.

Sabang Beach has a soft and shallow oceanbed, gray sandy shoreline, and waves coming from the Pacific Ocean which makes it a perfect spot for beginners. If you’re an experienced surfer, you can rent a banca going to Charlie’s Point which breaks both left and right and is a sand bottom.

San Antonio and San Narciso in Zambales

Out of all the best beaches in the Philippines, Zambales is nearest to Metro Manila. It is also recognized for its consistent waves since it is bordered to the west by the West Philippine Sea. However, the swells in Zambales are not usually large compared to the other beaches in the North, but there are times when the swell size hits overhead.

One of the most outstanding surf spots in the municipality of San Antonio is Pundaquit because it receives swells from the north and west quadrants. In San Narciso, you can find the Quiksilver Surf School at the Crystal Beach Resort where most beginners and intermediate surfers gather for a ride.

Doot Poktoy in Lanuza Bay, Surigao del Sur

Located in the quaint town of Lanuza, Doot Poktoy is a surf spot that is renowned for having some of the best waves in the world. Local and international surfers claim that the waves at Doot Poktoy are at par with the quality of waves in Hawaii and our very own Siargao.

The Surf Report Magazine stated, “Lanuza is a place with a flawless river mouth. Its waves spin long perfect rights on a big swell at low tide. There is a hollow tube section at take-off and there are long section walls up to 200 meters.”

The best time to surf at Doot Poktoy is between the months of October and February.

Puraran Beach in Baras, Catanduanes

In the Bicol region, surfers will find an emerging attraction called Puraran Bay which is home to the Majestics reef break. The term Majestics reef break was coined by The pristine water and the fine and clean white sand makes it the best hangout place in Catanduanes. The picturesque backdrop and the long-barrel waves make every ride cover-worthy.

Cloud Nine in Siargao, Surigao del Norte

If you haven’t been to Siargao, then you haven’t been to Cloud Nine. The Surfing Capital of the Philippines is a special mention in the world surfing community and is in the top 10 surf spots of the world. CNN described Siargao as “a dramatic and powerful reef break, which crashes onto shallow razor-sharp coral, offers right and left death rides” where “fearless surfers will experience a slice of paradise or hallucinations as waves wrap over them like a liquid cocoon. Skin and sometimes bone are often ripped to shreds by the ocean bed.”

Plan your budget and itinerary ahead of time. Before leaving, call your car insurance agent or your travel insurance provider for your dose of peace of mind. And don’t forget the most important thing – enjoy your ride.