Kelcie Lee
Siquijor, Batanes, Camiguin, Tawi-Tawi and Calaguas are stunning destinations in the Philippines, boasting a variety of attractions in lesser-traveled areas.
Kayak in El Nido, Philippines. Ehmir Bautista. Unsplash.
The Philippines is an archipelagic country in Southeast Asia with more than 7,000 islands. Many of its coastal areas, like Palawan and Boracay, are popular tourist spots, but there are plenty of other lesser-known islands in the country that offer stunning views and authentic cultural experiences.
Siquijor is a province in the Philippines, notably the third smallest in the country. It is known for its healing traditions and breathtaking waterfalls. Travelers can explore its exciting, must-visit spots, such as Lagaan Falls and Cambugahay Falls, which capture the beautiful nature with deep-blue colored water. Siquijor is also filled with quiet beaches, like Paliton Beach, that offer a peaceful serenity, with colorful sunsets and opportunities to go snorkeling. For travelers wanting a bit more adventure, Siquijor is also home to many caves, containing underground rivers and hidden rock formations.
Siquijor’s sunset on a beach. Michael Lee. Unsplash.
The Batanes are the northernmost and smallest province of the Philippines, which is geographically closer to Taiwan than it is to the rest of its own country’s islands. Locals in the Batanes share a distinct language, and they have similar cultural and linguistic qualities to the Indigenous Tao people of Taiwan. While the islands are known for rugged cliffs and stone houses, they also host stunning views of the Pacific and highlight a strong community spirit.
Camiguin is a province known as the “island born of fire” due to its volcanic landscapes and hot springs. Mount Hibok-Hibok is one of the few active volcanoes on the island, and it is also a popular hiking spot. At the foot of the mountain, travelers can find the Ardent Hot Springs, with its transparent waters and a lush rainforest surrounding it. Camiguin also contains several snorkeling opportunities amidst crystal-clear waters. Your underwater sightseeing will include giant clams, a giant reef and marine life swimming alongside you.
Small community in the Philippines. Lorenz Narbs. Unsplash.
Tawi-Tawi is the southernmost province of the country. Along the shores of its capital, Bongao, sit Indigenous houses that stand on stilts. Indigenous groups such as the Badjao live in these houses, earning their livelihood by fishing or seaweed farming. While traditional culture has been preserved for hundreds of years, Tawi-Tawi is also uniquely Muslim, with 99% of the population belonging to the religion, as opposed to the Catholic majority in the Philippines.
Calaguas contains a group of islands in the Philippine province of Camarines Norte, filled with untouched beaches. The water is truly clean and clear, which is perfect for seeing bright-colored fish while snorkeling. Its iconic beaches are known for preserving the most natural beauty of the Philippines, boasting their striking white sands and making them true hidden paradises.
While Palawan and Boracay continue to be the most popular and most visited regions in the Philippines, there are hundreds of other islands in the country with their own hidden treasures. Siquijor, Batanes, Camiguin, Tawi-Tawi and Calaguas all offer something unique and individual while still providing the renowned natural beauty that the Philippines has to offer.
Kelcie Lee
Kelcie is a second-year student at UC Berkeley majoring in history and sociology, with a minor in journalism. She developed her passion for writing and journalism in high school, and has since written for a variety of news and magazine publications over the last few years. When she isn't writing, Kelcie can be found drinking coffee, listening to music or watching the sunset.