Now that the Philippines is open to fully vaccinated tourists, it's time revisit the gorgeous islands that make up the archipelago. These five-star resorts on islands like Siargao, Palawan and El Nido offer peace, privacy and picture-perfect views

Amanpulo

Amanpulo is the only resort on the private, uninhabited island of Pamalican in Palawan province, 360 kilometres south-west of Manila. 

Surrounded by white sand beaches and azure crystal-clear waters, all rooms and villas at Amanpulo are modelled after traditional indigenous bahay kubo dwellings, with timber frames and rustic island styling complemented by Aman Hotels' signature clean, contemporary aesthetic. 

The 29 Beach Casitas have direct access to the beach, while the Deluxe Hillside Casitas boast stunning sea views. For families or groups of friends, the two- and four-bedroom villas have airy living and dining pavilions with private pools and a dedicated in-house cook.

aman.com

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Nay Palad Hideaway

Nay Palad Hideaway sits between ancient mangrove forests and the soft white sands of Siargao—one of the most popular surf destinations in the Philippines and in Asia as a whole. After all, it's home to the legendary Cloud 9 barreling wave.

Other activities for adventure seekers include exploring nearby underground caves and untouched beaches, deep-sea fishing, kayaking and snorkelling.

Nay Palad Hideaway is arguably one of the most Instagrammable hotels in the world, with soaring palm trees leaning over white sand beaches, otherworldly architecture, a thatched roof yoga pavilion with ocean views and exclusive experiences like movie nights by the pool and romantic picnics on the beach. 

naypaladhideaway.com

Shangri-La Boracay

Shangri-La Boracay has 219 rooms and villas over a sprawling piece of Boracay's northern tip, complete with 350 meters of secluded beachfront—including two private coves accessible only by guests at the hotel—and surrounded by a thriving ecosystem of rare, tropical flora and fauna.

We love the luxurious two-storey Tree House Villa, which is perched on the resort's highest point for unobstructed ocean views. 

shangri-la.com

Cauayan Island Resort

When the owners of Cauayan Island Resort first laid eyes on the island, they knew they wanted to share it with travellers from around the world. Respectfully, of course.

The remote island retreat has made it its mission to protect the surrounding natural ecosystem, with initiatives like providing a nesting place for the local Palawan Hornbill and protection to baby sea turtles on its beachfront. To be honest, they had us at baby sea turtles. 

The villas were built using sustainable materials, and are proof that travelling sustainably doesn't mean sacrificing luxury. Our favourite is the Bay View Cauayan Pool Villa, which has a large wooden deck and private infinity pool overlooking the bay. 

cauayanresort.com

Ahana Resort El Nido

Lesser known but no less deserving of a place on this list is Ahana Resort in El Nido. 

Its collection of chic rooms and private villas boast boho-style decor, and guests are encouraged to explore the resort's surrounding natural beauty, from diving with giant sea turtles to kayaking the still, crystal-clear waters of El Nido's famous Big Lagoon. 

ahanaresort.com

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