Family Vacation In The Philippines
Do you want to spend an unforgettable, fun-filled and low cost vacation in the Philippines? You should know that the Philippines is a dream destination for many family travelers, especially for those Filipinos who want to travel back to their homeland especially with their kids. And why not, as this place offers some of the best beaches and tourist destinations in Asia. Aside from the numerous activities and places to visit; there are several things you need to consider for your next family vacation including hotels, airfare, visa requirements and many more.
Take your family on a vacation you’ll never forget to the Philippines; a country filled with stunning sceneries and home to Mayon volcano, the most active volcano in the entire world. The warm hospitality of the Filipino people is one that will surely be appreciated by all your family members, while the beautiful beaches will also leave them speechless!
There is lots to do when you are planning a vacation. There are so many activities, places to visit and things to try that it can be overwhelming. This is where planning your family vacation really pays off. You want to spend as little time as possible planning your trip and a whole lot of time enjoying yourself. But this doesn’t mean you should skimp on the planning. While it may seem like a daunting task now, once you decide where you want to go, it will make organizing the details much quicker and easier
Family Vacation In The Philippines 
Dig deep into your childhood and most likely, some of the best memories you will have are from fun, family outings. There’s nothing quite like seeing the world with bright-eyed wonder, which is why we try to repeat the same experience when we have our own families.
COVID-19 may have us staying at home these days, but we’re pretty sure a general sense of wanderlust will follow the world’s recovery. For a destination like no other, make your way to the Philippines!
| Health tip: Remember to always wear a face mask and sanitize your hands regularly during these uncertain times. Don’t forget to maintain proper social distancing, follow health and safety policies, and stay updated on travel advisories for your chosen Philippine destinations!MORE COVID-19 TRAVEL PROTOCOLS HERE |
With more than 7,600 islands, there’s never a shortage of amazing places around this sun-soaked archipelago. Each destination welcomes you with its rich culture, stunning sights, one-of-a-kind hospitality, and delicious cuisine that will surely make you want to come back for more. A family vacation in the Philippines is definitely more fun — and these Philippine destinations will prove that!
Also read: Slowly But Surely: Here’s What Tourism Reopening Looks Like in The Philippines
1. Bohol
Image credit: hams Nocete
The island province of Bohol is home to many natural wonders that will leave you in awe. For starters, the spectacular Chocolate Hills is best seen during the dry season around November to May. During this time, the hills turn a rich, chocolatey hue. The rainy season is just as beautiful. The hills become a lush, bright green landscape that will take your breath away.
Beaches may be far and many around the Philippines, but few evoke as much serenity as the ones found in Bohol. The most famous is Alona Beach on Panglao Island.
Make the most of the moment and enjoy the beach with fewer people around while enjoying much-needed family bonding! Here, you can go kayaking and jet-skiing. Why not destress on a yacht while enjoying the sights onboard?
Image credit: Christine Wehrmeier (left); Billycruz (right)
Meanwhile Loboc River, despite being a popular Bohol attraction, is one of the cleanest rivers in the country. Enjoy a scrumptious lunch at the Floating Restaurant, which comes with a cultural show. It’ll make you feel like you’re attending a real Filipino fiesta! For now, it’s best to forgo kamayan (a common local practice where you eat with your bare hands) and use utensils that have been thoroughly cleaned. Remember, whip out those disinfectants before your first bite.
Up for something a bit more exciting? We dare you to cross Sipatan Hanging Bridge — while looking down at the Sevilla River! Also, don’t forget to meet some of the island’s local fauna.
Bohol is one of the few places in the world where you can find tarsiers. Get to meet the world’s smallest primates at the Tarsier Conservation Area. (Just remind your kids not to use flash photography when taking pictures of these critters!)
Meanwhile, in Habitat Butterflies Conservation Center, you can observe hundreds of butterfly species fluttering around and snap that Instagram-worthy photo.
2. Baguio
Image credit: patrickroque01
Yearning for the cool weather and pine-scented air of the highlands? Head north to Baguio, A.K.A. The City of Pines. Beyond the beaches and tropical destinations, Baguio offers a different kind of relaxation for your family vacation in the Philippines.
Oh, and in case you haven’t heard — this city has been praised for their impressive contact tracing methods! So, make sure to follow local protocols accordingly.
| Tour tip: Did you know that Baguio is part of an exciting tourism loop called Ridge and Reef Corridor? It includes the provinces of Baguio, La Union, Pangasinan, Ilocos Sur, and Ilocos Norte! The Ridge and Reef Corridor tour bubble makes for a complete and exciting getaway for friends and families because it presents some of the Philippines’ best travel highlights.What’s more, these neighbouring provinces are safely accessible by land travel from Manila, so you need not fret about several connecting flights!Mountainside chilling awaits in Baguio, where cool weather prevails. Savour seaside getaways in Pangasinan and La Union, a surfing capital in Luzon! Last but certainly not least, indulge in food trips and heritage tours in Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur — home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites Paoay Church and Vigan, respectively.EXPLORE THE RIDGE AND REEF CORRIDOR |
Kids will enjoy running around the grassy courtyard of The Manor. | Image credit: Camp John Hay Official Website
Start off with downtown Baguio. At Burnham Park, you can ride a bike, row around the lagoon on a swan-shaped boat, or take a stroll around the lush gardens. You’ll see why it’s one of the most popular parks in the country!
A few minutes’ drive away is The Mansion, the official summer residence of the Philippine president. Architecture buffs will surely be impressed by its elegant Spanish Colonial Revival style. In between exploring, make sure to drop by a Baguio café or 10 — a cup of native hot chocolate (tsokolate de batirol) is a must! If you can, bring your own mug or tumbler as an extra safety (and pro-environment!) measure.
Another crowd favourite among locals and tourists alike is Camp John Hay, a former military resort turned mixed-use development. There’s quite a lot to do here, like playing mini-golf, jogging/hiking around the trails, ziplining through the woods, or having a picnic! Opt to stay at The Manor Hotel, where you’ll be welcomed by cosy cabin-style rooms.
Museo Kordilyera is the first ethnographic museum in the Northern part of the Philippines. | Image credit: Museo Kordilyera Official Facebook Page
The Philippines’ very first UNESCO Creative City, Baguio also houses several museums and art villages that give tourists a glimpse of Cordillera culture and heritage. Tam-Awan Village offers an immersive experience, with its Ifugao huts and Kalinga houses that show what a traditional village looks like. You can even interact with locals and tribespeople, see their works of art, and attend a woodcarving workshop! For further insight on indigenous history, visit Museo Kordilyera, which is housed in the University of the Philippines Baguio campus.
What’s more, Baguio ensures the safety of its tourists through its innovative multiplatform travel regulation system called Visitor Information and Travel Assistance (or VIS.I.T.A.). VIS.I.T.A. helps guests accomplish health declarations easily, and allows you to pre-arrange Baguio tours hassle-free.
| Tour tip: Visiting Baguio for its cultural sights and activities? Don’t miss out! Click on the button below to stay updated about Baguio events, and even get access to a “Creative Crawl Map” that allows you to craft a culturally rich itinerary for your trip to the “City of Pines”.SHOW ME BAGUIO’S CREATIVE SIDE |
3. Boracay
A family vacation on this well-loved, successfully rehabilitated island is surely going to be one for the books! | Image credit: The Wandering Angel
Of course, we have one of the most popular Philippine destinations: Boracay.
There are many reasons why this chill paradise is a hit with travellers of all ages! Imagine: Your kids could spend the whole day frolicking around White Beach while you sunbathe and take in the view. No-fuss, no hassle, no babysitter required! Just remember to teach your kids about social distancing, too.
Monofin swimming, A.K.A. mermaid swimming, is a definite must-try when in Boracay! | Image credit: Ricki Salud
True to its name, Boracay’s powder-like shores are especially tempting. For some water-filled fun, take your pick among the many watersports you have to try when borders reopen: from parasailing to (socially-distanced) banana boat rides and even mermaid swimming. That’s not to say on-land activities pale in comparison. On the contrary, they’re just as exciting! Hop aboard an ATV and explore the island, including its highest peak: Mount Luho. Want stunning views of the sea? Take the zipline and look out for some colourful paraws (sailboats) sailing nearby.
| Health tip: Aside from face masks, it’s best to bring your own goggles, snorkelling masks, and other basic swimming gear. The island highly discourages rental of such equipment at this time. This precaution safeguards your health, too!MORE COVID-19 TRAVEL PROTOCOLS HERE |
Dig into yummy seafood and oyster sisig, a variation of the Filipino dish that even the late Anthony Bourdain fell in love with! | Image credit: Discovery Shores Official Facebook Page (left); Two Seasons Boracay Resort Official Facebook Page (right)
Charge up with some delicious food in between activities! The island is brimming with restaurants serving up mouthwatering dishes such as fresh seafood, four-cheese pizza, and calamansi muffin. Top it all off with a fruit shake (or five!) from Jonah’s. You’ll definitely want to try these during your vacation in the Philippines! (Don’t forget to wash your hands thoroughly before digging in).This popular destination went through a six-month rehabilitation back in 2018, which paved the way for a total transformation. From being a party hotspot, Boracay is now a family-friendly destination that teaches tourists the value of responsible tourism. Since then, the local government has implemented certain measures geared towards sustainable tourism. This meant doing away with beachfront parties and fireworks, banning smoking and eating on the actual beach, and setting a 30-metre distance of all establishments from the shore.
These measures are definitely a great example to show the next generation of responsible travellers how sustainable tourism is achieved.
4. Cebu
Image credit: Burak Ceviz
Welcome to Cebu, where you’ll find options, options, and more options! Wherever you go, there’s always something fun to see and experience here for a fun family vacation in the Philippines. Beaches, gardens, city life, historic sites, art, food — you name it, they have it!
Image credit: Lapping
Cebu City is the oldest city in the country, so make sure to visit the historical sites dating back to the Spanish Colonial Era. There’s Fort San Pedro, Magellan’s Cross, and Casa Gorordo Museum.
Up for a more modern adventure? Try out the Crown Regency’s Edge Coaster, where you’ll walk along a glass floor as you circle the perimeter of the 38th floor! We recommend visiting these downtown attractions early in the day to avoid crowds, as well as be the first in line since most places will have reduced carrying capacity to protect guests’ safety.
Instagrammable spots await at Sirao Flower Garden! Just look at those fresh blooms. | Image credit: Ysa Fonacier
For picture-perfect sights, head over to the Temple of Leah, Terrazas De Flores Botanical Garden, and Sirao Flower Garden. Don’t forget to try the scrumptious meals this city has to offer: fresh seafood from the sutukil (fresh seafood restaurants) and of course, the famous Cebu lechon!
The famous Moalboal sardine run is an underwater spectacle you shouldn’t miss! | Image credit: Giachen’s World
In the neighbouring cities and islands, you’ll find many beach stays — from the swanky resorts in Mactan to the more lowkey ones in Bantayan Island. You can even try out glamping in Sumilon Island, or simply enjoy some quiet time in Santiago Bay.
Head over to Moalboal for some snorkelling and if you’re lucky, you and your kids might even spot a sea turtle… or millions of sardines! How’s that for an unforgettable family vacation in the Philippines?
| Health tip: Rest assured there’s an abundance of certified hotels and resorts in the Philippines that follow strict guidelines under the new normal. These establishments prioritise visitors’ health and safety, so make sure to do your part by adhering to their policies like social distancing, temperature checks, and cashless payments.MORE COVID-19 TRAVEL PROTOCOLS HERE |
5. Iloilo
Image credit: June Famur
Aside from being called the Heart of the Philippines because of its geographical location, the capital of Iloilo is also fondly nicknamed the City of Love. True enough, few Philippine destinations embody romance and beauty the way Iloilo does!
The Lopez Mansion, a Beaux Art heritage house that’s now also called Nelly’s Garden — named after the founder Don Vicente Lopez’s daughter. | Image credit: Nelly Garden Iloilo Official Facebook Page
Its heritage mansions take you back to the early 1900s: the height of the city’s grandeur. There are plenty to add to your list — from the palatial Lopez Mansion to the manors-turned-modern establishments along Calle Real. In between exploring, make sure to try out local dishes like La Paz batchoy, daraag (charcoal-roasted native chicken), and pancit Molo! There are a handful of restaurants and eateries that offer these in the city, so make sure to visit the ones with adequate health and safety protocols.
Classical mythology and religion intertwine at the neighbouring Molo Church and Molo Plaza. | Image credit: Allan Jay Quesada
For further cultural immersion, visit the centuries-old Molo Church, a Catholic church made of white coral rock. Right across from it is Molo Plaza, where you’ll find statues of Greek deities. Downtown Iloilo has several museums that your kids will enjoy — like the Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art. There’s also the Western Visayas Regional Museum, a branch of the National Museum that’s housed inside a former state-of-the-art prison. How cool is that?
Despite having a handful of must-see attractions, Iloilo City has managed to retain its steady-paced environment. It’s also a great place to bike around, which has now become highly recommended as it allows safe social distancing while exploring!
In 2019, the city won the ASEAN Clean Tourist City Award 2020–2022. As the name suggests, this award is given to eco-friendly cities with awesome initiatives towards more sustainable tourism.
Climb up the mini hills of Cabugao Gamay Island, after a fun dip in the beach. | Image credit: Ella Uy
Thought you’ve seen everything in the city? Not quite! Head up north to see what else Iloilo province has to offer for your vacation in the Philippines. Hint: pristine beaches, secret caves, and idyllic lagoons!
Take an island-hopping tour around Islas de Gigantes. Social distancing still applies when moving around these islands, so don’t be surprised if there are only a few people allowed per bangka or boat.
P.S. — With so many things to do all around Iloilo, it’s best to build up your resistance with vitamins, water, proper diet, enough sleep, and exercise. This mainly applies to pre-travel prep, but hey, it’s definitely better if you keep it up even during your trip.