Everyone knows Boracay, Palawan, and Siargao. They’re stunning, no doubt. But they’re also crowded. Lines for boats, packed beaches, and that sense that paradise got a little too popular.
So what about the islands locals whisper about? The ones that still feel quiet, raw, and real?
A while back, I asked travelers on Reddit to share their favorite underrated islands in the Philippines. The post blew up with honest, passionate answers from locals, expats, and travelers who’ve explored far beyond the usual tourist trail.
These are places with empty beaches, friendly faces, and sunsets without the crowds. Real stories from people who’ve been there and know the magic of finding somewhere that still feels untouched.
If you’re craving a more authentic side of the Philippines, this list is for you.
👉 Let’s explore the Philippines beyond the tourist hot spots.
1. Camiguin – The “Complete Island” 🌋
Camiguin is one of those rare islands that has everything in one place. It’s small, peaceful, and full of surprises around every curve of the road.
You can chase waterfalls in the morning, snorkel with turtles at lunch, and soak in a hot spring by sunset. It’s easy to explore, easy to love, and somehow still not overrun by tourists.
One traveler described it perfectly:
“Mantigue has wicked diving and snorkeling if you like turtles. White Island is picturesque and a must-visit. The Sunken Cemetery is kitschy but cool. The hot and cold springs are fun and beautiful. The waterfalls are a bit of a drive but nice scenery along the way. Guerrera is a restaurant I dream about, and Luna Pizza is great.”
💧 Top highlights:
- White Island: a bright sandbar with views of Mount Hibok-Hibok
- Mantigue Island: calm blue water, coral gardens, and sea turtles
- Ardent Hot Spring & Sto. Niño Cold Spring: perfect for relaxing after a long day
- Katibawasan Falls: an easy stop surrounded by rainforest
Camiguin might be small, but it feels complete. Everything is close, affordable, and authentic. It’s the kind of island that keeps you busy but relaxed at the same time.
👉 Tip: Book early if you plan to visit during the Lanzones Festival in October. Rooms go fast once word gets out about this island’s charm.
2. Bantayan Island, Cebu – Laid-Back Paradise 🏖️
Bantayan Island feels like the Philippines in slow motion. Everything moves at island pace, the waves, the motorbikes, even the smiles. It’s calm, charming, and exactly what you need when life gets too loud.
The beaches here stretch long and quiet, with powdery sand and water that shifts from turquoise to deep blue as the sun moves across the sky. You can walk for hours without bumping into a crowd. It’s the kind of place where locals greet you by name after a few days.
A traveler described Bantayan perfectly:
“It’s like Boracay years ago.”
That’s the magic. You still get beach bars, seafood feasts, and the occasional karaoke night, but it all feels genuine. The island hasn’t lost its soul.
🛵 Top things to do:
- Rent a scooter and circle the island. Every turn brings a new beach or fishing village.
- Visit Kota Beach for those clear, calm waters and iconic sandbar.
- Feast on fresh seafood at Bantayan Public Market or a seaside grill.
- Catch the sunset in Santa Fe with a cold beer in hand.
💡 Why it’s underrated:
Bantayan isn’t hard to reach, but it’s often skipped for more famous Cebu spots like Moalboal or Malapascua. That’s a mistake. It’s one of the easiest getaways from Cebu City, yet it feels worlds away.
👉 Tip: Take the ferry from Hagnaya Port and book a beachfront stay near Santa Fe early if you’re visiting during Holy Week, it’s the island’s liveliest time of year.
Because once you arrive, you’ll understand why so many people call Bantayan their favorite secret escape.
3. Malapascua Island, Cebu – For Divers and Dreamers 🦈
Malapascua is tiny, peaceful, and unforgettable. It’s the kind of island that doesn’t try to impress you. It just quietly does.
Most people visit for one reason: to dive with thresher sharks.
Nowhere else in the world offers such consistent, year-round encounters. The dive happens early in the morning at Monad Shoal, and when that long-tailed shark glides out of the deep blue, it feels surreal.
But even if you’re not into diving, Malapascua still feels magical. The beaches are soft and quiet, with palm trees behind tiny bamboo resorts.
You can walk the whole island in under an hour, passing kids playing basketball, fishermen mending nets, and locals smiling as you go by.
💦 Top things to do:
- Dive Monad Shoal for an unforgettable thresher shark encounter.
- Snorkel at Dakit-Dakit Island and see colorful coral gardens.
- Relax on Bounty Beach with a coconut or a cold beer.
- Take a boat to Kalanggaman Island for powdery sand and crystal-clear water.
💡 Why it’s underrated:
Malapascua doesn’t have big resorts or commercial chains. It feels personal and local. The island’s charm lies in its simplicity. Peaceful mornings, friendly faces, and no rush to be anywhere.
It’s perfect for travelers who want connection instead of crowds, and calm instead of chaos.
👉 Tip: Book your dives and accommodation early if you’re visiting during peak months. Spots fill quickly, but that’s part of what keeps Malapascua special.
4. Gigantes Islands, Iloilo – Mini Palawan Without the Price 🏝️
The Gigantes Islands are the kind of place that make you wonder why more people haven’t discovered them yet. Imagine Palawan-style cliffs, glowing white sandbars, and turquoise lagoons, all without the price tag or the crowds.
Located off the coast of Carles in Iloilo, this group of small islands feels wonderfully remote. The vibe is simple, local, and authentic. Most people come here for island hopping, and every stop seems to outdo the last.
💦 Top spots to explore:
- Cabugao Gamay Island: the famous viewpoint where you can see both sides of the island.
- Tangke Lagoon: a saltwater pool surrounded by dramatic limestone walls.
- Bantigue Sandbar: perfect for photos and a quick dip at low tide.
- Antonia Beach: clear water, soft sand, and great snorkeling.
And then there’s the food. The islands are known for their fresh scallops, often grilled right on the beach and sold for just a few pesos each. You won’t find seafood this good (or this cheap) anywhere else in the country.
💡 Why it’s underrated:
Getting to Gigantes takes a little effort, which keeps it peaceful and affordable. There are no luxury hotels or chain restaurants, just family-run homestays and the kind of hospitality that makes you feel instantly welcome.
If you want postcard-perfect scenery without the Palawan prices, this is it.
👉 Tip: Book an island-hopping tour in advance and stay overnight to catch the sunrise from Cabugao Gamay. It’s one of the most beautiful views in the Visayas.
5. Basilan – The Misunderstood Beauty 🌴
Basilan is one of the most beautiful places in Mindanao that hardly anyone talks about. It’s a name that sometimes sparks hesitation, but travelers who have actually been there say the same thing, it’s safe, stunning, and full of heart.
I’ve visited multiple beaches across the island, and not a single one disappointed me. The water is unbelievably clear, the sand soft and untouched, and the best part is how few people are around. Tourism is only starting to grow here, which means everything still feels raw and natural.
💙 What makes Basilan special:
- Unspoiled beaches that rival more famous islands but without the crowds.
- Local hospitality that stands out. People are genuinely warm and welcoming.
- Untouched nature with forested hills, calm shores, and crystal coves.
The island still carries an old stigma, but those days are behind it. Basilan today is peaceful and proud of its beauty. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most rewarding destinations are the ones people are still afraid to visit.
If you’re looking for something real, raw, and deeply local, Basilan deserves your attention.
👉 Tip: Go with an open mind and plan your trip with local guides. You’ll discover an island that’s not only safe but also unforgettable.
6. Tawi-Tawi – The Cultural Edge of the Philippines 🕌
Tawi-Tawi sits at the far southern edge of the country, and it truly feels like another world. It’s remote but peaceful, full of color, flavor, and culture that you won’t find anywhere else in the Philippines.
“I’ve been to a lot of islands this year like Siquijor, Camiguin, and Malapascua, but Tawi-Tawi hits different. The culture, food, and beaches and it’s not even expensive to travel there.”
That’s exactly what makes Tawi-Tawi special. It’s not polished or touristy, but it’s deeply real. The mosques shimmer in the sunlight, the sandbars glow under clear water, and the people are incredibly warm.
🌅 Top experiences:
- Bud Bongao: a short hike that rewards you with sweeping island views.
- Panampangan Island: one of the longest sandbars in the Philippines.
- Bajau Village visits: learn about sea nomad traditions and local crafts.
- Local eats: don’t miss native dishes like tiyula itum (black beef soup) and bangus cooked in coconut.
💡 Why it’s underrated:
Tawi-Tawi’s location near the Malaysian border keeps it off most itineraries, but those who go discover a peaceful, culturally rich destination. It’s one of the few places where you’ll feel both far away and completely at home.
If you love culture, connection, and the kind of beauty that doesn’t need filters, Tawi-Tawi deserves a spot high on your list.
👉 Tip: Fly via Zamboanga or Bongao, and coordinate with local guides for the best island-hopping and cultural experiences.
7. Catanduanes – The Happy Island 🌊
Catanduanes doesn’t scream for attention, but maybe that’s why it’s so special. It’s calm, authentic, and full of hidden beauty. The kind of place that feels like a secret shared among locals.
Known as the “Happy Island,” Catanduanes is lush and often rainy, which keeps everything green and alive year-round. Even locals say, “Maulan most of the time pero panalo sa mga beach”, it might rain, but the beaches make it worth it.
🏄 Top things to do:
- Surf at Puraran Beach, home of the famous “Majestic” surf break.
- Explore Maribina Falls for a refreshing swim.
- Visit Binurong Point for dramatic cliffs and sunrise views.
- Go island hopping around Palumbanes or Sakahon Island.
💡 Why it’s underrated:
Catanduanes sits quietly in the shadow of better-known destinations in Bicol. It’s remote enough to keep crowds away but easy enough to reach for adventurous travelers. The island offers that rare mix of natural beauty, genuine local charm, and total peace.
If you want an island that feels untouched and true to itself, Catanduanes is the kind of place that makes you slow down, smile, and stay longer than planned.
👉 Tip: Visit between March and May for calmer seas and sunny skies, especially if you plan to surf or island hop.
8. Himokilan Island, Leyte – Cuatro Islas’ Hidden Gem 🌴
Himokilan Island is one of the Cuatro Islas in Southern Leyte, and it’s easily the most peaceful of the bunch. It’s small, quiet, and surrounded by clear, calm water that feels made for snorkeling and lazy swimming.
Travelers often mention it in the same breath as Limasawa and Calicoan, saying “Quatro Islas in Southern Leyte, magaganda I swear!” which perfectly captures the enthusiasm locals have for this underrated spot.
🐠 Top things to do:
- Snorkel around the coral gardens that surround the island. The water visibility is incredible.
- Take a day trip from Inopacan and visit the other nearby islands of Apid, Digyo, and Mahaba.
- Have a picnic on the beach under coconut trees with almost no one else around.
- Watch the sunset as the light hits the water and mountains in the distance.
💡 Why it’s underrated:
Most travelers pass through Leyte on their way to somewhere else, so Cuatro Islas remains almost untouched. There are no big hotels, just clear water, soft sand, and that special kind of silence that only small islands can give.
If you love snorkeling, photography, or simply being away from the noise, Himokilan will win you over fast.
👉 Tip: Visit on a weekday for the full deserted-island experience, and bring cash since there are no ATMs nearby.
9. Calayan Island, Cagayan Valley – Wild and Untamed 🌾
Calayan Island is the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard no one else has seen yet. It’s remote, rugged, and absolutely worth the effort to reach.
One traveler described it perfectly: “Calayan Island sobrang ganda, parang nasa paraiso ka na.” That’s exactly how it feels, like paradise untouched by time.
The island is part of the Babuyan group in northern Luzon and is known for its rolling green hills, towering cliffs, and remote beaches that stretch for kilometers without a single resort in sight.
🌅 Top things to see:
- Caniwara Beach: wide, wild, and completely uncrowded.
- Nagudungan Hill: a short hike with breathtaking views of cliffs and the open sea.
- Sibang Cove: white sand, turquoise water, and perfect peace.
- Calayan Lighthouse: a dramatic spot for sunset photos.
💡 Why it’s underrated:
Calayan isn’t easy to reach, and that’s what keeps it special. The long ferry rides and rough seas turn away casual travelers, leaving only those who truly crave adventure. But once you arrive, every view and every quiet moment makes it worth the trip.
If you’re a photographer, nature lover, or someone who prefers silence over nightlife, Calayan might just be your dream island.
👉 Tip: Plan your trip during calm weather (March to May) and coordinate with local guides for transport and island tours. Bring cash and a sense of adventure.
10. Ticao Island, Masbate – Where the Mantas Glide 🌊
Ticao Island in Masbate doesn’t make it onto most itineraries, and that’s exactly why you should go. Locals describe it simply: “Masbate! Legit madaming beaches ” and they’re not exaggerating.
This is one of the few islands in the Philippines where you can dive with manta rays and, in some seasons, even spot whale sharks. The marine biodiversity here is world-class, yet the island remains humble and peaceful, with friendly locals and small family-run resorts.
🐋 Top things to do:
- Dive at Manta Bowl, one of the best manta ray sites in the country.
- Island hop to Halea Nature Park for white sand and clear blue water.
- Snorkel near Catandayagan Falls, a rare waterfall that plunges straight into the sea.
- Explore by motorbike and stop at quiet fishing villages.
💡 Why it’s underrated:
Ticao sits quietly between better-known dive spots like Donsol and Bicol, but those who visit quickly realize it’s one of the most rewarding islands for both underwater and cultural experiences. The island has a rustic charm that feels authentic, not touristy.
If you love diving, seafood, and simple island living, Ticao offers the best of all three without the crowds.
👉 Tip: The best time to visit is from March to June for calm waters and active manta sightings. Bring cash, and book your dives early with local operators.
11. Dinagat Islands – Palawan’s Quiet Cousin 🌿
The Dinagat Islands are one of those places that make you feel like you’ve discovered a secret. Tucked away off the coast of Surigao del Norte, this island province is filled with emerald coves, limestone cliffs, and hidden lagoons that remind many travelers of Palawan, only quieter.
It’s raw, peaceful, and beautifully local. Most of the island remains undeveloped, which means you’ll find pristine beaches, calm fishing villages, and a pace of life that feels decades slower than the mainland. The people here are warm and welcoming, often inviting visitors to share a meal or join a boat ride to a nearby cove.
🌊 Top things to see and do:
- Visit Cab-ilan Island for postcard-worthy beaches and crystal water.
- Swim at Lake Bababu, a rare mix of freshwater and seawater surrounded by jungle.
- Explore Kisses Islets, named after their unique chocolate-drop shapes.
- Island hop between small, untouched beaches that rarely see visitors.
💡 Why it’s underrated:
Dinagat is often overshadowed by nearby Siargao, but that’s what makes it so peaceful. It’s the kind of destination for travelers who prefer a paddle boat over a party, and nature over nightlife.
If you love unspoiled landscapes and genuine local hospitality, Dinagat will surprise you in the best way.
👉 Tip: Visit during the dry season from February to May. Arrange boat tours with locals in San Jose town, they know the secret spots tourists never see.
12. Jomalig Island, Quezon – Golden Sands and Smiles 🌅
Jomalig (pronounced ho-ma-lig) is one of those places that test your patience getting there and then reward you a hundred times over. It’s a long boat ride from the mainland, but the moment you step on its golden-sand beaches, you’ll know it was worth every hour.
The island has a warm, homey vibe. Locals wave as you pass, kids play by the shore, and everyone seems genuinely happy you made the trip. It’s often called “the friendliest island in Luzon,” and honestly, that’s no exaggeration.
🏖️ Top things to do:
- Relax at Salibungot Beach, a long stretch of gold-tinted sand and clear water.
- Go camping under the stars, there are no massive resorts here, just nature and good company.
- Explore Kanaway Beach and Little Batanes Viewpoint for quiet views and photo-worthy cliffs.
- Rent a motorbike and circle the island to find your own private cove.
💡 Why it’s underrated:
Getting to Jomalig takes effort, a long land trip followed by a boat ride from Real, Quezon. That’s exactly what keeps it special. The island feels remote yet welcoming, raw yet safe.
It’s perfect for travelers who want to disconnect, slow down, and experience genuine island life.
👉 Tip: Bring cash, snacks, and a power bank. There are no ATMs on the island, and electricity runs on schedule. The best time to visit is between March and May when the sea is calm and the skies are golden to match the sand.
13. Camotes Island, Cebu – The Island That Feels Yours Alone 🌤️
Camotes Island is one of Cebu’s best-kept secrets. It has that rare mix of quiet beaches, friendly locals, and natural beauty that makes you forget the rest of the world exists.
I went there during Holy Week and there were no crowds at all, except for a small reggae concert on Saturday night. It felt like having the island to myself during one of the busiest travel weeks of the year.
That perfectly sums up Camotes. It’s simple, relaxing, and full of surprises once you start exploring. Rent a scooter, take the coastal roads, and see where the day takes you. There’s always a beach, cave, or cliff jump waiting around the corner.
🌴 Top things to do:
- Explore Bukilat Cave for a swim inside its glowing blue waters.
- Cliff dive at Buho Rock for an adrenaline rush and epic views.
- Swim at Santiago Bay with its long stretch of calm, shallow water.
- Visit Lake Danao and rent a kayak or pedal boat for a peaceful ride.
💡 Why it’s underrated:
Camotes is easy to reach from Cebu City yet still feels completely detached from modern chaos. It’s the kind of island where you can truly disconnect, no traffic, no noise, no rush.
If you love discovering places that feel untouched and personal, Camotes might just become your favorite island in the Visayas.
👉 Tip: Bring cash and rent a motorbike once you arrive. The best way to experience Camotes is to explore at your own pace and get lost in the best way possible.
Travel Tips for Exploring Offbeat Islands 🌴
Exploring the lesser-known islands of the Philippines is an adventure you’ll never forget. But going off the beaten path also means being prepared for places that don’t have the same comforts as tourist hotspots. Here’s what I’ve learned from island-hopping across the country.
💰 Bring Cash
Most small islands don’t have ATMs, and many resorts or tour operators only accept cash. Plan ahead and bring enough for your entire trip, including ferries and meals.
🔋 Pack Power Banks
Electricity can be limited, especially in smaller communities. A good power bank (or two) will keep your phone, camera, and drone charged while you’re exploring.
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Signal can be weak or nonexistent once you leave the mainland. Download offline maps from Google or Maps.me before your trip so you can still navigate scooter routes and island trails.
👣 Travel Light
You’ll likely be hopping on small boats and tricycles. A light backpack and waterproof bag make life easier. Skip the suitcase and pack only what you’ll actually use.
🌊 Protect Your Gear
A dry bag is your best friend on island-hopping days. Keep your phone, wallet, and camera safe from saltwater splashes and unexpected rain.
🤿 Bring the Essentials
Reef shoes, a snorkel set, and biodegradable sunscreen go a long way. Most offbeat islands have rocky beaches and amazing coral gardens just offshore.
💛 Respect Locals
Small islands thrive on community. Always ask before flying a drone, taking photos of people, or entering private property. A friendly smile and “salamat” (thank you) go a long way.
🛡️ Don’t Skip Travel Insurance
Boats get delayed, weather changes fast, and medical help can be far away. Travel insurance gives peace of mind, especially when exploring remote spots.
Final Thoughts on The Most Underrated Islands in the Philippines
These underrated islands prove that the Philippines is so much more than its famous trio of Boracay, Palawan, and Siargao.
Beyond the crowds and resorts, there are still places where life moves slow, smiles come easy, and the beaches feel like they belong to you.
Traveling to these offbeat islands isn’t just about adventure, it’s about connection. You get to meet locals who welcome you like family, support small communities that rely on tourism, and experience the country in its most authentic form.
So pack light, stay curious, and give these hidden gems the attention they deserve.
✨ Because life is for living.
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