100 Family Friendly Destinations in the Philippines – Part 1

There are many family-friendly destinations in the Philippines – this article, the first in a 10-part series, is going to show you the best of them and exactly how to get there. Excited? Then read on!

A family with kids can still have modern comforts while still feeling that adventurous vibe, even in remote islands. With the locals’ warm hospitality, they’re always ready to lend a helping hand if you needed it. The Philippines has so much to offer when it comes to wonderful places to go to. Take your wandering feet to amazing city tours, travel back in time to heritage sites, recharge your senses in nature parks and go backpacking in several islands (there are over 7,000 islands in the Philippines.)

The country made it to the list of most avid backpackers and tourists as one of the “must-visit” destinations not only because of patches of paradise here and there but also because planning itineraries in the Philippines, even with your kids tagging along, is a breeze.

If you still think traveling with kids might be complicated, think again and go over this list of family-friendly destinations in these beautiful Philippine islands.

Click the destination names for prices and reviews of accommodation options in each location, or use this handy search box below!

Here are some of the best family-friendly destinations in the Philippines

1. Boracay – Paradise Island

Why it’s one of the best family-friendly destinations in the Philippines:

Boracay, world-renowned for its powdery, talcum-fine white sand, palm-fringed shores, and scenic crystal blue seascape, remains one of the flag beach destinations of the Philippines. Boracay attracts people from all walks of life- the adventurers, the party-goers, the solo travelers, backpackers, and families with kids in tow – mainly because it offers something for everyone – and that includes the little ones. It is popularly known for its touristy and beach party vibe, but there are hotels and accommodations in Boracay that are located away from the beach crowd for those who just want a quieter ambiance – exactly what you need from family-friendly destinations in the Philippines.

Check out some of the cool and cheap tours you could do in Boracay.

You’ll never run out of enjoyable activities like cliff-diving, parasailing, scuba-diving, island-hopping and zip-lining for the adventurous tourists. You can do practically every activity you can think of doing on a beach – and did I mention mermaid-swimming? It’s all that and more. If you bring your kids with you, there are malls, restaurants, hotels, and guesthouse accommodations that can meet your needs as a traveling family. White Beach, the main beach, has the finest sand. It is divided into 3 stations- Station 1, Station 2, and Station 3. Stations 1 and 2 are lined with bars and restaurants that turn the tranquil scenery into a beach party scene at night. Station 3 is recommended for family-friendly vacations, as it is located at the tranquil, quiet end of the beach.

How to Get There:

The best and fastest way to get there from Manila is by plane. Take the 45-minute flight to either Kalibo Airport or Caticlan Airport from Manila. Kalibo is a popular jump-off since the fare tends to be much cheaper than the airfare going to Caticlan. From Kalibo Airport, you can either get on a two-hour trip via bus (200 pesos) or van going to Caticlan Jetty Port. If you’re coming from Caticlan Airport, it would be just a 10-minute walk to Caticlan Jetty Port or you can ride a tricycle going there.  Either way, you’ll end up at Caticlan Jetty Port, where a ferry ride (25 pesos ferry fare + 75 pesos environmental fee + 100 pesos terminal fee) will take you to Cagban or Tambisaan Port. From there, tricycles can take you to your hotel. If you’re headed to White Beach, tricycle fare is 100 pesos for 4 to 6 persons.

How Much It Costs:

There are a lot of Boracay packages that offer all-in features that include two-way airfare,3 days- two nights’ accommodation, bus/van transfers, with free meals or beach activities thrown in for as low as approximately 5000 pesos to 8000 pesos per person in a standard 2-star or 3 –star hotel accommodation. Otherwise, if you plan a DIY tour itinerary, you can get budget guesthouse accommodations for your family for as low as 1000 per night or less at accommodations a few minutes walk away from the beachfront in off-peak season. The months from June to October 31 are considered the low season. Don’t worry about the weather – the weather is unpredictable and you can always check the weather forecast if a thunderstorm is coming. Peak season starts in November onwards. Expect the prices to go up a little higher then.

2. Bohol – Heart of Visayas

Why it’s one of the best family-friendly destinations in the Philippines:

Bohol, located at the heart of the Visayas region, lured nature-loving tourists from all parts of the globe. Touted as one of the island jewels of the Philippines, its white sand beaches and mysterious islands are one of the best in the world. This is the tenth largest island in the Philippines, and one of my favorite family-friendly destinations in the Philippines.

Check out some of the cool and cheap tours you could do in Bohol.

Chocolate Hills, its most famous landmark, is a favorite tourist spot located at  Chocolate Hills Adventure Park in Carmen, Bohol. They look like hundreds of giant mounds of chocolate when they turn brown in the dry season.  The island is dotted with waterfalls, caves and other natural attractions like butterfly sanctuary and the Tarsier Conservation Area, home of the world’s smallest primate.

Your family will love the countryside tour in the main island of Bohol, usually offered as a package tour by travel agencies where you travel around town in a private van.  Your kids will gape in awe at the man-made forest of mahogany trees lining up a 2-kilometer road. Take a refreshing dip during the tour and delight in the beauty of Mag-Aso Falls (one of the many falls in Bohol).

Your family will never forget a unique cruising experience at Loboc River. Loboc River Cruise tour is usually done at midday. This is where you can enjoy a sumptuous eat-all-you-can lunch buffet. You’ll be serenaded by local musicians as the boat cruises along the length of the river.

Ride a boat and go island hopping to nearby islands like the Virgin Island or locally known as Pungtud Island,  Balicasag Island (dolphin-watching and snorkeling), and Panglao Island.  Virgin Island has a long, snake-like stretch of a beautiful, powdery white sandbar. Alona Beach is located at Panglao Island. This place is a good option for a family to stay in Bohol as it has modern infrastructures. It is definitely not a party beach, making it a perfect family-friendly destination in the Philippines.

How to Get There:

From Manila or Cebu take the flight to Bohol’s capital, Tagbilaran City. The travel time from Manila takes 1 hour and 15 minutes. A 25-hour boat ride from Manila is also possible if you have a lot of time to spare and you love traveling by sea.

How Much It Costs:

It would be more convenient for a family to rent a car or a van. Car rental ranges  from 1,500 to 2,500 pesos. The car rental usually comes with a driver who can take you on a heritage sites tour and to other highlights of Bohol. Sightseeing in Bohol includes a visit to animal sanctuaries, Chocolate Hills and eco-tour sites.

If you want to explore nearby islands, you can hire a boat. A boat that can seat 10 people would cost around 1,500 to 2,500 pesos.

Most hotels in Bohol offer packaged countryside tours and island hopping tours for a group, which you can take advantage of.  These packaged tours can range from approximately 2,500 up to 5,000 per head depending on the number of people in the group and the number of destinations, together with a 3-day, 2-night accommodation.  These hotels and guesthouses are all family-friendly.

3. Cebu – Oldest City of the Philippines

Why it’s one of the best family-friendly destinations in the Philippines:

Cebu is an island province located in the Visayas and touted as the oldest city of the Philippines. It is home to heritage sites owing to its historical background being the first Spanish settlement in the country. A city tour will take you back in time when the Spaniards first set foot in Philippine soil, commemorated by Magellan’s Cross, one of the popular heritage sites in Cebu. Other heritage sites include the oldest religious relic of the Sto. Nino, dating back to 1521, housed at Basilica del Santo Nino.

Check out some of the cool and cheap tours you could do in Cebu / Cebu City.

While in the city and if you’re not much of a history buff, take your kids to Crown Regency Hotel for a taste of urban adventure. Try the Edge Coaster, a two-seater coaster plying around the edge of the hotel’s rooftop. It can incline up to almost 90 degrees from a height of 130 meters off the ground. You can control the degree of incline or just remain in a sitting position.

The hotel also offers the Sky Walk, where you walk around on a clear fiberglass pathway without rails around the edge at the same height of 130 meters off the ground – strapped with harnesses and safety ropes. It’s activities like these, hidden in otherwise unexciting places that make Cebu one of the best family-friendly destinations in the Philippines. Last but not least – don’t forget to taste the famous Cebu Lechon, the most delicious roasted pig in the world, according to Anthony Bourdain.

Cebu City is the major jump-off to most islands in the Visayas, and smaller islands like the Bantayan Island, Malapascua Island, and Camotes Islands, also forming the Cebu group of islands. All of them boast of white sand, tranquil beaches that offer quiet sand and sea retreats for the whole family. You can get to these island beaches surrounding Cebu city via public ferry transport. From the Cebu City North Terminal, catch a bus going to Hagnaya Port, San Remigio. Bus travel time is 3 hours. From Hagnaya Port, board a ferry going to Santa Fe, which takes an hour of travel. Bantayan Island offers budget and high-end beach resorts for tourists, and from there you can visit other islands like Malapascua Island.

How to Get There:

Cebu is a destination from most Asian cities. You can easily take direct flights from major cities around the world to Cebu. Otherwise, if you’re coming from Manila, it’s a 45-minute flight to Mactan-Cebu International Airport. Note that you need to pay for a domestic terminal fee of 200 pesos.

How Much It Costs:

Cebu is the central hub in the Visayan region and getting around and finding a place to stay will not be difficult for a traveling family.  A city tour will cost you a thousand pesos more or less.

A jeepney fare costs less than 10 pesos, and a taxi ride costs 120 to 150 pesos going from one point to another.  If you’re staying at a hotel, standard family rooms can range from approximately 1,500 to 2,500 a night up.

The adventure rides at Crown Regency Hotel roughly costs 500 pesos per head and costs less if you avail of two rides or more. It also houses Cebu’s first 6D cinema so you might want to entertain your kids here as well.

Bus fare going to Hagnaya Port is 160 pesos. The 1-hour ferry ride to Bantayan Island costs 17 pesos per head. At Bantayan Islands, beach resorts offer room rates for as low as 500 pesos per person for a night’s stay. Both budget and high-end accommodations are available at the island.  These are approximate rates only just to give you an idea of how much it costs to venture in and around Cebu.

4. Puerto Princesa, Palawan – The “City in a Forest”

Why it’s one of the best family-friendly destinations in the Philippines:

Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Puerto Princesa city owes its title to its natural wonders. Kids will definitely enjoy traveling here with all the adventures and biodiversity the place has to offer. Anyone would lose track of time once you set foot in the cleanest and greenest city as well as the longest, navigable underground river in the world. This is truly one of the best family-friendly destinations in the Philippines.

Check out some of the cool and cheap tours you could do in Puerto Princesa / Palawan.

Allow your kids to witness the beauty of nature’s wonders within the national park where the underground river is located. Go island-hopping, as the city is also the jump-off to commercial and secluded fine white sand beaches nearby.  From Honda Bay, boats can take you to snorkeling sites and nearby islands where you can have family picnics and snorkeling activities. Indeed, it is touted as a “city in a forest” for good reason. This is truly an adventurous vacation for your kids at the country’s “last frontier” without worrying about losing modern conveniences.  Everything in it seems to have a modern, rustic appeal.

How to Get There:

The Puerto Princesa  Airport is the main gateway for all arrivals and departures. It is located a few minutes from the city. Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, AirPhil Express, and Zest Air all offer direct flights from Manila to Puerto Princesa. The average flight time is 1 hour and 15 minutes if coming from Manila.

If you choose to travel by sea, you can inquire at 2Go Travel, a ferry managed by Aboitiz Super Ferry that docks directly at Puerto Princesa from Manila.

How Much It Costs:

family-friendly, family room accommodations can range from 1,500 to 3,000 pesos per day. A city tour in Puerto Princesa would cost around 600 per person, and the nature-adventure tour costs around 1,100 per person.  Dining can range from 100 to 200 pesos for a dish.

5. Zambales – Island Hopping

Why it’s one of the best family-friendly destinations in the Philippines:

If you’re the backpacker type used to camping in the wild, the beautiful island coves of Zambales provide an opportunity for you to teach your kids a thing or two about camping. I have brought my daughter camping overnight at Nagsasa Cove once and she had spent most of her time playing by the beach, roasting marshmallows over a campfire, and enjoying a rustic family picnic with my friends.

However, for most families with young kids, it is best to book a hotel near the coves to ensure comfort and safety and just ask the hotel staff to arrange your island hopping activity for you. With several hotels and resorts to choose from, Zambales is now one of the best family-friendly destinations in the Philippines.

Zambales, located in Central Luzon,  has seven beach coves. What’s peculiar with these coves are most of them have pine tree forests. Some of the pine trees seemed to grow out from white sanded soil, but actually, the sand is made up of volcanic ash.

The whole mountain forest and white beach scenery is just postcard –perfect; particularly if photographed in the golden hours of sunrise or sunset.  The most popular of these island coves are Anawangin Cove, Nagsasa Cove, and Capones Island where the century-old Capones lighthouse can be found.

The jump-off starts at Pundakit Beach, a small fishing village in San Antonio. You can hire boats at Pundakit Beach to take you to an overnight camping trip to any one of these coves or a day tour. The boatman usually takes care of the needed supplies like ice box with ice and other cooking utensils. The boatman can even cook for you when you’re camping on one of the coves. Zambales also covers the small white beach island of Potipot, as well as Magalawa Island.

Hotels and beach resorts in Zambales have spectacular views of the Zambales mountains and sea all in one place. If you want a quiet get-away to a scenic land and seascape, Zambales is now a family-friendly destination in the Philippines.

How to Get There:

From Manila, catch a bus going to Iba, Zambales from Cubao or Caloocan bus terminals. Jump-off point is at San Antonio.

How Much It Costs:

Bus fare from Manila is roughly 250 pesos. Accommodation for families can range from 2000 to 6,000 per day depending on hotel and room type. Standard rates apply for boat rentals, approximately 300 per person for island-hopping activities.

6. Hundred Islands / Bolinao Beach – Pangasinan

Why it’s one of the best family-friendly destinations in the Philippines:

The Philippines has roughly 7,100 islands. You can count off a hundred of them by visiting the Hundred Islands in Alaminos, Pangasinan. Located in Western Luzon along Lingayen Gulf and the South China Sea, Hundred Islands provides enjoyable activities for you and your family like snorkeling, island-hopping, cliff-diving( with a vest), and kayaking in its crystal-clear blue-green hued waters.

Not all of the islands are accessible as some islands are already privately-owned.  Those that are open to the public offer one-of-a-kind views of the hundred islands dotting the area like the viewing deck at Governor’s Island. Governor’s Island is one of the largest islands on the site that offers beach resort accommodations.  It is usually the starting point for island-hopping. Other islands are Marcos Island (named after the late President Marcos), Devil’s Island, Kissing Island, and Children’s Island.   The islands are home to fantastic coral reefs and giant clams. 

In addition to that, side trips to the beach of Bolinao and its countryside highlights like the Cape Bolinao Lighthouse, Enchanted Cave, and Bolinao Falls can be arranged.

How to Get There:

From Manila, you can take a five-hour trip to Alaminos, Pangasinan.  From there you can take a 10-minute tricycle ride to Lucap Wharf, where you can talk to a tourism officer and arrange a boat tour.

How Much It Costs:

Family room accommodations can range from 2,000 to 5,000 pesos, most of them located near Lucap Wharf. Hotel menus serve the local food fare particularly Alaminos longganisa, Dagupan Bangus, and a wide range of seafood. Meal prices can range from 200 to 300 per dish.  In Governor Island, a room for 10 to 15 people costs 10,000 pesos. Bus fare from Manila to Alaminos is approximately 400 pesos if you choose to commute.

7. Subic Bay Freeport Zone – Everybody’s Playground

Why it’s one of the best family-friendly destinations in the Philippines:

Simply known as Subic Bay, Subic Bay Freeport Zone is the first free port in the country. Once a US Naval Base, it is now converted into a huge playground for everyone, where commercial zones blend with scenic beaches, lush ancient forests, adventure parks, leisure hotels, and duty-free shopping centers. Kids will definitely enjoy the country’s only open sea marine park, Ocean Adventure, underwater aquarium, Zoobic Safari (a tiger sanctuary) and explore the wonders of nature at Pamulaklakin Forest Eco-Trail, where kids can gawk at ancient, giant trees. What more could you ask from a family-friendly destination in the Philippines?

To add thrill to your forest experience, try zip lining at Subic Treetop Adventure and soar over an amazing tree canopy forest scene. Scenic beaches offer kayaking and snorkeling activities. You can choose family accommodation near a beach or near the forest. Either way, your kids will love a unique vacation experience in a well-preserved natural environment blended with modern comforts.

How to Get There:

Via SCTex (Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway) – from Manila, if you’re taking a private vehicle, you can go via the North Luzon Expressway, all the way to San Fernando,  pass by Dau and exit to Subic Bay Freeport Expressway in Tipo, Bataan. The trip takes 1.5 hours.  You have the option to commute by bus. There are regular bus schedules departing for Olongapo City Terminal from Manila bus terminals in Pasay, Cubao, and Caloocan.

How Much it Costs:

Room rates can range from 500 to 7,000 pesos. Canopy and Treetop ride at Subic Treetop Adventure costs 500.00 pesos, other rides cost 600 pesos. Zoobic Safari and Ocean Adventure cost around 500 pesos respectively.

8. Baguio – The City of Pines

Why it’s one of the best family-friendly destinations in the Philippines:

Baguio, the City of Pines is situated on hilly land, about 1,524 meters above sea level in the Cordillera region, Northern Luzon. This highly urbanized city was dubbed the Summer Capital of the Philippines and City of Flowers for good reason.

Temperatures can range from a low of 7 degrees Celsius to 16 degrees Celsius in the cold season (December to February), up to 26 degrees Celsius in summer.  This city in Northern Luzon is a favorite vacation spot among local Filipino and foreign tourists. Rich with historical culture, indigenous crafts, and mountain resort views, including quaint dining places showcasing the local artworks of weaving and woodcarving. This is where whole families can enjoy nature, art and the outdoors at the same time without leaving the modern conveniences of city comforts. You can go horseback-riding, strawberry-picking, roam around museums showcasing indigenous art and visit Tam-Awan Village and learn how the indigenous people live. A must-visit for those seeking family-friendly destinations in the Philippines.

How to Get There:

Air-conditioned buses travel daily on an hourly schedule from Manila to Baguio city terminals.  The buses stop twice during the 6 to 7 hour trip for meal and restroom breaks. Victory Liner now has a luxury bus that can travel non-stop for 4 to 5 hours. It has free Wifi, a built-in restroom, wide reclining chairs with blankets, and a stewardess that serve snacks and drinks.

How Much It Costs:

Air-conditioned bus fares from Manila to Baguio cost 450 pesos per person, one way. Luxury seats cost roughly 700 pesos for shorter and more comfortable travel times. Baguio City offers transient houses, lodges, inns, resorts and hotel accommodations that range from 500 pesos per person to a family room rate ranging from 1,000 to 5,000 pesos per day. The most popular option for families who want to cook their own meals is renting a transient house or commonly called a homestay.

9. Sagada – the Pride of Mountain Province

Why it’s one of the best family-friendly destinations in the Philippines:

For families with older kids who would love to take on nature-trekking in the mountains without leaving modern comforts,  Sagada is a viable option, though a bit time-consuming in terms of travel time. You can continue your family adventures from Baguio and head-off to Sagada – a 6-hour trip to the heart of Mountain Province in Northern Luzon. Here the countryside turns into pure natural beauty that is uniquely the Philippines, with little or no Spanish influences.  Its location made it hard for Spanish conquistadors to set foot in it.

Stopover and have your picture taken at majestic Banaue Rice terraces on your way to Sagada. In Sagada,  there are lodges and inns that can offer a satisfying stay for your family amidst temperate climate, pine trees, and restaurants that serve international and local specialties.

Bond closer with your family as you trek your way to see the Hanging coffins (an ancient traditional way of burying the dead, though the revered, mummified ancestors don’t actually get buried, but placed in hanging coffins on rocky mountainsides).

View a spectacular sunrise at Kiltepan (you have to wake up really early to trek your way to the viewpoint). You can walk around Sagada and just lose track of time. Take a walk through its pine forests and visit the Echo Valley.

Take the adventure to the next level by visiting the Sumaguing Cave. Sumaguing cave has natural stalactite and stalagmite formations that resemble giant versions of certain objects and things and is truly a wonderful, unique way of experiencing nature at its best with your family.

How to Get There:

When searching for family-friendly destinations in the Philippines, the journey is every bit as important as the location. Bus trips to Mountain Province are always relaxing because of the countryside views and you’ll never lack comfortable, air-conditioned buses plying from Manila to Banaue. Usually, night trips are taken so tourists can sleep off the nine hours of travel to Banaue from Manila bus terminals. If night trips are taken, you can arrive at Banaue at around breakfast time. Whatever time of the day you choose for the nine-hour trip, the bus makes regular stops for meal or snack breaks every 2 hours. At Banaue, you can hire a van or a jeepney going to Sagada, and usually, this covers a stopover at the Banaue Rice Terraces for a family photo.  The travel time from Banaue to Sagada is roughly 4 hours including the stopovers.

If you’re coming from Baguio, you can go to the old Dangwa Station near Center Mall at Magsaysay road, and board a regular bus going to Sagada. These buses are not air-conditioned for good reason- you don’t need air-conditioning anyway, the climate is cold enough. Travel time takes roughly 4 to 6 hours from Baguio.

Total travel time from Manila takes roughly 10 to 12 hours. For this reason, you have the option to break down your journey by staying in Baguio, then move to Sagada with a relaxed itinerary.

Another option is to hire a private van from Manila or Baguio. You can stop anywhere you like. You can also do sightseeing for as long as you like. This is a favorite option for me when traveling with family and friends.

How Much It Costs:

The six-hour bus travel from Manila to Banaue costs 600 pesos per person. From Banaue, you can board a jeep or van for 250 pesos per person.  Finding homestays, inns, and lodges in Sagada is not a problem, though there are no major hotels. You can choose from several options since Sagada is flocked by local and foreign tourists all year round. A standard family room can cost from 250 to 300 pesos per person.  Meals can range from 100 pesos to 300 pesos in an eat-all-you-can buffet, serving the local specialties of ‘pinikpikan’ and Filipino and international cuisine – including yogurt desserts, the famous lemon pie, pasta, and cakes. Sagada is also famous for its flavorful coffee, so local coffee shops dot the area in a mountain view setting.

10. Corregidor Island – A Beautiful Island Fortress

Why it’s one of the best family-friendly destinations in the Philippines:

Popular as a day trip destination, this island is also an interesting family vacation site. The island is located at the entrance of Manila Bay. It was one of the fortress islands defending Manila throughout the Spanish, Japanese and American eras.

Now fortified with ammunition, the ruins and other historical artifacts preserved in the island serve as historical landmarks to Filipino, Japanese and American soldiers who lost their lives.  Families will enjoy an hour’s cruise over Manila Bay to get to the island. Getting around the island can be done via ‘tramvias’, riding a bike, or by a guided walking tour to all the historical shrines and landmarks.  A family will benefit from an overnight stay with activities like sunrise and sunset viewing, zip-lining, kayaking, tunnel tour, and riding ATVs, otherwise, there is a huge choice of family hotels in Manila. Include this interesting relic of Philippine history in your list of family-friendly destinations in the Philippines and see the wonders of the past.

How to Get There:

Sun Cruises offers day trips and overnight packages. You can find the ferry terminal near the Cultural Center of the Philippines along Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City. The ferry leaves Manila at 8 am and arrives at Corregidor Island at 9:15 am, on a daily schedule except in unfavorable, stormy weather.

How Much It Costs:

Day tour rates for adults are 2,250 pesos per person on a weekday and 2,449 pesos per person on a weekend.  Day tour rates for children from 3 to 11 years old cost 1,400 pesos per person.  This rate includes a lunch buffet meal, two-way ferry transfer, a guided tour and covers all entrance fees and shrine fees.

On top of the day tour package, overnight accommodation at Corregidor Inn will cost 2,000 for an air-conditioned room for twin sharing with 750 pesos for an extra person, with breakfast included. The 31-room hotel is decorated uniquely with historical and cultural decors, has capiz windows and gives an old Spanish flavor to the overall design. Relaxing is easy with the natural, quiet ambiance of the hotel and the island itself.

This is the first installment of the 10-Part series of the 100 Family Friendly Destinations in the Philippines.

If you want to add any more family-friendly destinations in the Philippines, please do share your ideas in the comments or email us at [email protected]. We would love to hear from you.

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