There’s a travel story that says that the Philippines has so many beaches on so many islands that it would take you more than twenty yeas to spend a half a day on each of them. We’re not entirely sure if the tale holds true, but considering the archipelago’s seven thousand islands stretch between the South China Sea and the Philippine Sea, it doesn’t sound all that far-fetched! Many of the best places to stay in the Philippines are set on stunning beaches, whilst others face tranquil lakes or sit within the glittering high-rises of lively Manila. Accordingly you can expect to find slick city hotels, luxurious beach resorts and family friendly properties offering multi room villas amongst our recommendations.
Some of our Philippines Collections:
Manila is, for most visitors, the gateway to the Philippines. Under Spanish rule for 350 years, the city is a fascinating fusion of Filipino tradition, Catholic grandeur and the bustle of an ever-growing metropolis. Take a few days to explore bustling markets, swish malls and the gorgeous Intramuros district before heading to the Lake Taal and its impressive volcano at Tagaytay.
There’s no shortage of dazzling islands to discover, either. Go diving and snorkelling in beautiful Palawan, kite surf in Boracay, or surf and sunbathe on spectacular Siargao Island. Expect lush landscapes of mountains and volcanoes, with hiking and mountain biking trails, bird watching opportunities and panoramic views towards the sea. Buzzy beach towns will delight sociable travellers with their bars and eateries, whilst unspoilt beaches, spectacular national parks and marine reserves await keen adventurers. Some of the best places to stay in the Philippines are remote private islands retreats, perfect for sinking your toes into the sand on one of those legendary beaches.
The Best Places to Stay in the Philippines
For Manila
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Dusit Thani Manila offers chic guest rooms and suites in Makati. Thai-influenced spaces feature crisp white linens, botanical paintings and marble bathrooms with tubs. The big highlights are the gourmet Thai and Japanese eateries. A beautiful city hotel.
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Conrad Manila faces Manila Bay. Sleek, sophisticated interiors sit within a grand, ocean liner-inspired shell. Cream-and-white-suites have full-length windows, there's a fabulous rooftop pool, and the Chinese and Filipino fare is not to be missed. An exceptional contemporary hotel.
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Raffles Makati is a far newer addition to the classic hotel brand's collection. With just 32 rooms, this stylish small hotel promises Raffles-style luxury, including an exceptional cocktail bar, sophisticated French restaurant and rooftop pool with spa. An opulent choice for the discerning traveller.
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The Manila Hotel opened in 1912. The country's very first five-star hotel, this grand dame has played host to the likes of Ernest Hemingway, John Wayne & the Beatles — amongst many others — over the last century. Think glittering chandeliers, warm golden tones and elegant shared spaces, including the popular Champagne Room.
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Shangri-La The Fort is a glittering high-rise in Taguig, with dazzling city views from guest rooms, suites and apartments. Families will appreciate the inter-connecting rooms, the children's pool, and the lively Adventure Zone. There are also eight drinking and dining options, 20 event spaces and a sensational spa and gym. Fabulous.
For a Boutique Bolthole
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Maison Bukana offers four spacious guest rooms in a French and Filipino-influenced villa facing the mangrove river on the edge of Malinao on Siargao Island. Serene, minimalistic and built from sustainable materials, the hotel also boasts a brilliant bistro and expansive wine cellar.
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Manami Resort is made up of just 16 indulgent suites and villas on the southwest coast of Negros. Soothing spaces are feature soft linens and earthy tones, and many suites have private plunge pools. With a rejuvenating spa, cracking cocktails and seasonal cuisine, this is an ideal pick for a romantic island honeymoon.
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INARA Siargao is an elegant small hotel with six airy suites surrounded by swaying palms. Interiors feature ochre-painted walls, draped four-poster beds, lovely bathrooms and botanical prints. A swimming pool and seasonal restaurant add to the romantic appeal.
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Nuuk Taal Lake was built as one family's private lakeside retreat. Now transformed into a charming boutique hotel near Tagaytay, the space has eight individually designed and decorated guest rooms with well-chosen antiques and artwork. The restaurant is lovely, there's a refreshing infinity pool and the lake views are nothing short of magical.
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Amarela Resort, on Panglao Island, has 31 characterful, individually decorated guest rooms with carved wooden antiques, hardwood floors and local artwork. Views towards the sea are magical, as are the leafy gardens with refreshing pool. Intimate, cosy and perfect for romantics.
For a Family-Friendly Resort
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The Lind, set on Boracay's popular White Beach, has stylish, sea-facing guest rooms decorated in nautically inspired blue and white. A chic high-rise hotel, this spot welcomes sociable families with its excellent kids club, multiple swimming pools and relaxing restaurants. The design feels fresh and urban, and the best of Boracay is right on your doorstep.
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Misibis Bay, on the south-east coast of Bacacay, has 135 airy guest rooms, suites and villas facing the sea. The two pools, vast array of water sports, bustling bar and restaurant, plus the games room and gym, make it a brilliant beach resort choice for active guests of all ages.
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Movenpick Resort & Spa Boracay is a lively resort on Boracay's Punta Bunga Cove, with bright, contemporary rooms, suites and villas. Ideal for active families, the hotel offers a plethora of water sports, a kids club, regular karaoke nights and multiple eateries promising Asian, Italian and international fare. Great fun.
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Atmosphere on Negros Island offers 36 rooms and suites, some of which are specifically set up for families or groups of friends travelling together. Expect bright, airy interiors, three shared swimming pools, a superb spa, popular dive centre and wide range of water sports. Lively, friendly and set right on the beach.
For a Rustic Escape
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Parada Beach Camp is nothing short of magical. A glamping retreat on Iloc Island's unspoilt Parada Beach, this understated hideaway has cosy double beds topped with woven quilts and earthy-toned cushions in tented spaces with pale wooden furnishings and leafy pot plants. Take a dip in the pool, join fellow guests at the resto-bar, or kick back in hammocks slung between the palms.
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Qi Palawan boasts just eight thatched cabanas in a relatively undiscovered part of north-eastern Palawan. The vibe is simple and rustic, with wooden furnishings and a real focus on making the most of the unspoilt natural surroundings. Try mountain biking and yoga, or head out into the water for snorkelling, diving, paddle boarding and kitesurfing. An intimate, low-key retreat.
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Punta Punta Surf Retreat is a warm, laid-back surf spot in the little village of Cabitoonan. Glamping tents and garden bungalows have ocean views, simple interiors and open-air showers. There's a great plunge pool, plant-based café and excellent cocktails. Friendly and reasonably priced.
For Eco-Luxury
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Pangulasian Island offers 42 elegant villas — some of which boast their own private plunge pools —overlooking 750m of white sands and a marine sanctuary. Stay here for the fabulous spa and the focus on sustainability. With myriad activities to choose from on land and water, as well as excellent hospitality, this is tropical eco-living at its most luxurious.
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Nay Palay Hideaway is a stunning luxury resort nestled between the mangroves and the sea on Siargao Island. Celebrated designers Daniel Pouzet and Jean-Marie Massaud have ensured a beautiful focus on sustainability, with natural materials and earthy tones defining gorgeous guest villas. Bathrooms are exceptional, and there's a fabulous focus on wellness. Very indulgent.
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Lagen Island features 51 sophisticated suites and cottages, tucked between four hectares of lush greenery and a tranquil lagoon. Charming rooms are crafted from timber recycled from old Filipino homes, and offer magnificent views. A sanctuary for rare birds and mammals, the island is ideal for romantic couples or quiet individuals in search of an intimate, luxurious stay with great green credentials.
Prefer an Apartment or Private Villa?
- If you’d prefer to stay in an apartment or private villa, we'd recommend visiting our online partner, Booking.com.
Travel Information
- Fly to Manila International Airport from various international hubs, including Hong Kong, Singapore and Dubai. Many of the Philippines' smaller islands have their own airports, with regular connections from Manila. Mactan Cebu International Airport and Iloilo International Airport are also particularly well-connected. Most hotels will be happy to arrange an airport or ferry terminal pick-up in advance.
- Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
- Peak season runs from November through to April. The Philippines has a tropical monsoon climate, and rain is expected along much of the west coastline between July and September, when it's also hot and humid. Do take the time to look into specific weather patterns if you're keen to try surfing or kite surfing, as the wind and waves vary widely throughout the year.
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