21 Days of Island Dreams and Tropical Wonders

Our Route: Distances and Travel Summary

We had an amazing time in the Philippines. Over three weeks, we explored some of the country’s most beautiful places, from the lively capital of Manila to the white beaches of Boracay, the landscapes of Palawan, the lagoons of El Nido, the quiet spots of Coron, and the relaxed shores of Moalboal. This trip blended tropical relaxation, adventure, island hopping, crystal-clear waters, and some of the most stunning scenery we’ve ever seen. Staying in beautiful resorts, beachfront lodges, and boutique stays made the experience feel both authentic and unforgettable , this trip was planned to perfection.

London to Manila (Flight)
Manila to Boracay (Flight)
Boracay to Caticlan (Ferry)
Caticlan to Puerto Princesa (Flight)
Puerto Princesa to Port Barton (Drive)
Port Barton to El Nido (Drive)
El Nido to Coron (Boat)
Coron to Cebu (Flight)
Cebu to Moalboal (Drive)
Cebu to Manila (Flight)
Manila to Home (Flight)

Boracay – White sand, sun, and nightlife,

We arrived late in Manila, just in time to rest before catching our flight to Caticlan and continuing on to Boracay, where our island adventure truly began. Known worldwide for its powdery white sand and crystal-clear turquoise water, Boracay lived up to its reputation as a compact yet vibrant tropical destination, with its famous 4-kilometer stretch of White Beach offering the perfect setting for swimming, sunbathing, kayaking, and long seaside walks by day, and colourful sunsets, beachfront dinners, lively nightlife, and fire shows by night. White Beach itself is divided into three distinct sections: Station 1 in the north for luxury, wide sands, and quiet; Station 2 in the center as the bustling hub of shopping, dining, and nightlife around D’Mall; and Station 3 in the south for a more laid-back, local, and budget-friendly vibe.

While in Boracay, we recommend:

Kombu japanese bistro
Aplaya Boracay
Puka beach
Sinaagpa beach
Rey’s grill and resto bar boracay
Jammers beach shack
The Sunny Side Cafe

Puerto Princesa – Quiet, local gateway to Palawan.

After New Year’s, we flew to Puerto Princesa, the gateway to Palawan. Unlike Boracay, it felt quieter, offering a gentle introduction to the region’s untouched beauty. I recommend heading straight to Port Barton, or staying in Puerto Princesa for just one night before continuing your journey.

Port Barton – Laid-back beaches and rustic charm.

Next, we arrived in Port Barton, a quiet seaside village that felt like stepping back in time. With fewer crowds, rustic charm, and friendly locals, it offered a peaceful slice of paradise. Often described as a quieter, less-developed alternative to El Nido, Port Barton is a laid-back, scenic coastal village on Palawan Island. It’s the perfect place to enjoy pristine beaches, fresh seafood, and the warm hospitality of the Philippines. Conveniently located between El Nido and Puerto Princesa, it makes an ideal stop for anyone traveling through Palawan.

While in Port Barton, we recommend:

Parrots boutique resort
Mezza grill and bar
White Beach
Barton Bistro
Do the boat tour here! We preferred this one to El Nido.

El Nido – Limestone cliffs and turquoise lagoons

El Nido is full of limestone cliffs, clear waters, and small lagoons. We checked out Nacpan Beach too, a long, quiet stretch of sand with jungle on one side and the sea on the other. El Nido is known for its beaches and island-hopping tours (A, B, C, D) with stops like Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, and Seven Commandos Beach. We stayed in El Nido town, close to Lio Beach, and spent one night in a beachfront bungalow at Nacpan Beach.

While in El Nido, we recommend:

Taking island hopping tours (A)
Fuego El. Nido
Hama Villa (to stay)
Z garden h hospitality resort (to stay)
Watching sunset from Las Cabañas Beach
Lio Beach
Vanilla Beach

Coron - Shipwreck dives and clear lagoons

From El Nido, we took a ferry to Coron and stayed at the lovely Zuri Resort. We tried scuba diving for the first time, enjoyed great food, and stayed in a lovely hotel with an amazing view. Coron is known for its dramatic limestone cliffs, crystal-clear lagoons, and world-class WWII shipwreck dives. It’s a great spot for snorkeling, hiking, and exploring natural attractions like Kayangan Lake and Twin Lagoon.

While in Coron, we recommend:

Zuri Resort (stay)
Hermanos tapas and wine bar
Dive with wizard (scuba diving)

Cebu & Moalboal – Marine Life and Coastal Charm

Next, we arrived in Cebu and headed straight to Moalboal. Swimming alongside huge, swirling schools of sardines was unforgettable. The coastline is laid-back and full of life, with great seafood and friendly locals. You can spot turtles right from the water, and canyoning is a fun adventure here. We stayed at Secret Paradise Hotel, which was really nice.

Manila

For our final night, we stayed at Nobu Hotel Manila, soaking up the city one last time before heading home.

Planning your own Philippine adventure? Reach out to book with me and let’s make it happen!

My Philippines Adventure