Cover Kalanggaman Island, Leyte (Photo: Unsplash/Liz Red)
Kalanggaman Island, Leyte (Photo: Unsplash/Liz Red)
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On top of their powdery white sands, rich marine life, and endless sea views, these quaint beaches offer a chance to escape the crowds and deepen your connection with a loved one
Once, while sun-soaked on a kayak in the middle of a lagoon in El Nido, ensconced within magnificent limestone rocks and floating on dazzling turquoise waters, I remember articulating: I must be dreaming. There is certainly a romance in discovering nature in its quiet, unadulterated beauty—as though you are just stumbling upon a well-kept secret, its magnitude overwhelming, and the rest of the world (and its busyness) just feels miles, even lifetimes, away.
While there is no shortage of beautiful beaches in the Philippines, a few gems might afford you more quietude and intimacy with a loved one. If you’re after feeling like you have the whole island to yourselves or avoiding the more crowded and tourist-thronged destinations, traverse off the beaten path and look into these pristine pockets of paradise. They may be lesser-known than most, but are every bit as awe-inspiring.
More from Tatler: 7 romantic getaways for a spontaneous Valentine’s Day
Bon Bon Beach, Romblon
Marked by its natural sandbar—a thin and long strip of white, visible only during the low tide, that connects the main island to the smaller Bangug Island—Bon Bon Beach is more or less a ten-minute drive from the town proper in Romblon province. It’s a truly idyllic setting with a pearly shoreline, shallow, crystal-clear waters safe from big waves, and the most breathtaking sunsets.
Easily spend a day here, swimming, snorkelling, and walking hand-in-hand across the sandbar framed by panoramic views. You could even pack a picnic to enjoy on the islet for a truly special experience.
Calaguas Islands, Camarines Norte
A cluster of islands off the northern tip of the Bicol region, Calaguas presents you with a wide array of experiences to enjoy with your partner. Begin with the famous Mahabang Buhangin, its crowning glory which bestows upon visitors a stunning view of the other islands and surrounding hills. Besides providing ample space for romantic strolls or a pleasurable dip in the water, this gorgeous stretch is the perfect base to go island hopping. The adventurous could also seize the chance to trek the hills and hiking trails, go spelunking in secluded caves, and camp under a blanket of stars.
Read more: How to have an unforgettable camping trip this Valentine’s Day
Kalanggaman Island, Leyte
From above, this uninhabited island resembles a bird in flight; hence its name is derived from the Visayan word for “bird”. There, too, is a long white sandbar framed by endless, cerulean seascape, and the usual pool of water sports and activities. With regulated visitors allowed per day, you are welcome to indulge in its calm waters, unspoiled shore, and peaceful atmosphere as if it is all yours.
See also: The cultural wanderer’s guide to Bohol, the ʻJewel of the Philippinesʼ
Mantigue Island, Camiguin
Camiguin itself is a quaint and idyllic island province in Mindanao that you can explore in a day or two—and while in town, you mustn’t miss a side trip to Mantigue, a protected marine sanctuary for the endangered sea turtles in its peaceful waters. From the main island, it will take you just 15 to 20 minutes via boat to arrive at this tropical oasis.
The snorkelling and diving are rightfully exceptional, with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life making for an unforgettable shared experience. The island is small enough to explore on foot, so you can easily find a secluded spot to relax and soak up the sun.
Secret Beach, El Nido, Palawan
Above Secret Beach, El Nido (Photo: Unsplash/Mario Von Rotz)
Secret Beach, El Nido (Photo: Unsplash/Mario Von Rotz)
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Palawan is world-renowned for its fanciful beaches, but the Secret Beach on Matinloc Island takes the crown for its exclusivity. Accessible only by swimming through a narrow crevice in the rocks, this hidden paradise is well worth the effort. Once inside, and most likely equipped with snorkelling gear, you’ll be greeted by a secluded lagoon with towering limestone cliffs and turquoise waters.
Be sure to waterproof your phone or camera to capture this remarkable sight, or simply be prepared to soak it all in and engrave it to memory. Both private trips and group tours to this beach are easy to book at your resort of choice in El Nido.
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Trained as a student journalist, Mac’s knack for writing was a serendipitous discovery. Years later and she can’t imagine doing anything else. When she isn’t typing away on a story, she revels in being lost in a new city, revisiting a cosy film or sitcom, and idling away with her dogs.
