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Clear turquoise water, soft white sand, not another soul for miles (except fellow resort patrons and staff) — the luxury of a resort stay in the Philippines is calling your name. Across the country, various islands have incredible resorts with just a short walk to the beach and all the luxuries your brain could dream up. Check out the best resorts in the Philippines to plan your next vacation.
1. Amanpulo
A stay in this private island resort is your dream vacation come true. Amanpulo, on the Pamalican Island, part of the Cuyo Islands, offers stays in private casitas or in private villas. The casitas are modeled after traditional Filipino homes. Some are located just a stone’s throw away from the gentle turquoise shores while others are high up amongst the trees, with a little more seclusion and privacy. Two of the casitas available even have private pools for you to enjoy. The villas available have up to four bedrooms, giving you more privacy than the casitas, and each comes with a private swimming pool. Amanpulo Resort comes equipped with a spa, gourmet restaurants, and of course, your own private white sand beach. The water around the resort is perfect for scuba diving, snorkeling, sailing, or just sitting back in the sand and relaxing.
2. Nay Palad Hideaway
This Siargao Island resort is privacy and luxury to the max. Nay Palad Hideaway‘s all-inclusive fee allows you to soak up all the luxuries without having to worry about how much you’re spending. Enjoy the world-class restaurant, which uses fresh local ingredients in traditional dishes. Nay Palad Hideaway’s spa is perfect for you to rest and relax, while the yoga classes are the perfect way to start your day with a clear mind. Soak up the adventure on the island with the resort’s snorkeling, diving, water skiing, paddleboarding, and excursions to more remote parts of the island. The island resort’s rooms and common spaces all feature wood furniture as well as elements of the environment for a calming yet elegant design.
3. Bluewater Maribago Resort
In this tranquil resort, you’ll get nothing but beach vibes for days. Bluewater Maribago’s motto is “amuma”, a Visayan word meaning caring or nurturing, which is exactly what this resort does for you — pamper. The Mactan Island resort offers guests in-room spas, rooms with beach views, and of course, easy access to Cebu’s blue waters and soft sands. For the active and adventurous vacationers, Bluewater Maribago offers jet-skiing, scuba diving, beach volleyball, and life-size chess in the sand. Find the finest of fine dining at the resort’s five restaurants, including one of the best gourmet restaurants in all of Cebu.
4. Qi Palawan
Your stay at Qi Palawan is about as exclusive a vacation as you can get. The resort is located right in front of one of the Philippines’ pristine white sand beaches and backs up to a forest in Palawan. The resort only has seven rooms in total, each in an individual cabin, and with little else in the way of commercial tourism in the area, you have your own exclusive beaches and paths around the resort. Qi Palawan also has larger private villas to stay in, perfect for a family or a large group. Enjoy the swimming or scuba diving in the clear sea, paddle boarding along the coast, or mountain biking in the untouched forest. Qi Palawan also has a restaurant with a view of the tranquil sea and a spa for the ultimate rest and relaxation experience.
5. El Nido Resort Lagen Island
Get 360-degree views of turquoise waters from this resort. El Nido Resort on Lagen Island is an eco-sanctuary with cabins built on boardwalks above the water. The horseshoe-shaped resort backs into a lush forest complete with trails for you to wander around. With over 50 rooms, you can choose between the cabins over the sea or a room nestled into the trees. Each cottage comes with full comfort — large beds, private bathrooms, astounding views, and room for up to three guests. El Nido resort offers unique activities if you in case you get bored of the clear water or the beautiful beaches. Check out the bird watching, explore the mangroves, or learn a traditional Filipino sport — lessons and equipment available upon request.
6. Amarela Resort
This secluded resort on Panglao Island is perfect for some privacy during your days of rest and relaxation. The resort has 31 rooms in total, all of which overlook the bright blue sea. Amarela’s rooms make you feel at one with the surroundings with their all wood finishings. Sit back and relax in the peaceful rooms and take in the view, or wander down the sandy paths to the water. Enjoy the herb and vegetable garden, art gallery, library, boutique, and traditional Filipino restaurant. The resort, while remote, is just a short ride away from the nearest airport, so while you have your privacy, you can also get to other islands quickly.