The Most Popular Island in the Philippines, Ranked

Choose the island you think is the most popular!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on Apr 30, 2024 06:41
Imagine planning a trip to the beautiful archipelago of the Philippines, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture. With over 7,000 islands to choose from, determining which island to visit can be an overwhelming decision. A curated list of the most popular islands, as voted by travelers themselves, helps narrow down the choices and provides insight into where one might enjoy their vacation the most. This dynamic ranking is more than just a list; it's a tool fueled by the preferences and experiences of a global community. Every vote helps to paint a more accurate picture of each island's unique appeal. By participating, users not only glean insights from others but also contribute to a resource that guides future travelers in making informed decisions about their trips.

What Is the Most Popular Island in the Philippines?

  1. 1
    46
    votes
    Boracay Island
    ESA Copernicus Sentinel-2 · Attribution
    Boracay Island - known for its stunning white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and vibrant nightlife.
    Boracay Island is a popular tourist destination located in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines. It is known for its stunning white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. Boracay attracts visitors from all over the world who come to relax on the beach, indulge in water activities such as snorkeling and diving, and experience the lively atmosphere of the island's bars and restaurants.
    • Location: Western Visayas, Philippines
    • Land area: 10.32 square kilometers
    • Beaches: White Beach, Bulabog Beach, Puka Shell Beach, Diniwid Beach, etc.
    • Water activities: Snorkeling, Scuba diving, Parasailing, Jet skiing, Stand-up paddleboarding, etc.
    • Nightlife: Numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants offering a vibrant party scene
    Boracay Island in other rankings
  2. 2
    25
    votes
    Palawan Island
    Vyacheslav Argenberg · CC BY 4.0
    Palawan Island is home to the world-renowned Puerto Princesa Underground River and stunning limestone cliffs.
    Palawan Island is a stunning tropical paradise located in the Philippines. It is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, pristine white sandy beaches, and lush green landscapes. The island offers a diverse range of attractions, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites, vibrant coral reefs, and breathtaking limestone cliffs.
    • Area: 1,489,655 hectares
    • Length: 450 kilometers
    • Width: 50 kilometers
    • Capital: Puerto Princesa City
    • Number of Islands: 1,780
    Palawan Island in other rankings
  3. 3
    23
    votes
    Siargao Island is a surfer's paradise with world-class waves and laid-back island vibe.
    Siargao Island is a small tear-drop shaped island located in the province of Surigao del Norte in the Philippines. Known as the surfing capital of the Philippines, Siargao Island is famous for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and world-class surf breaks. The island offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation, making it a must-visit destination for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
    • Location: Surigao del Norte, Philippines
    • Shape: Tear-drop
    • Famous for: Surfing
    • Beaches: Pristine
    • Water clarity: Crystal-clear
    Siargao Island in other rankings
  4. 4
    16
    votes
    Cebu Island is a popular tourist destination for its beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and vibrant culture.
    Cebu Island is one of the most popular islands in the Philippines, known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Located in the Central Visayas region, it offers a diverse range of attractions and activities for visitors.
    • Location: Central Visayas region, Philippines
    • Size: 4,944 square kilometers
    • Population: approximately 4.6 million
    • Language: Cebuano, English, and Filipino
    • Capital City: Cebu City
  5. 5
    16
    votes
    Bohol Island
    Vyacheslav Argenberg · CC BY 4.0
    Bohol Island - famous for its unique geological features, including the Chocolate Hills and the Tarsier Sanctuary.
    Bohol Island is a popular tourist destination located in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines. It is known for its stunning natural landscapes, diverse wildlife, pristine white-sand beaches, and unique cultural attractions.
    • Location: Central Visayas, Philippines
    • Size: 4,821 square kilometers
    • Capital: Tagbilaran City
    • Famous Landmark: Chocolate Hills
    • Beaches: Alona Beach, Dumaluan Beach, Panglao Island Beaches
  6. 6
    15
    votes
    Camiguin Island - known for its natural beauty, including waterfalls, hot springs, and stunning beaches.
    Camiguin Island is a small volcanic island located in the northern region of Mindanao, Philippines. Nicknamed as the 'Island Born of Fire,' it is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and abundance of volcanic formations and natural attractions.
    • Location: Northern Mindanao, Philippines
    • Size: 238.63 square kilometers
    • Volcanoes: 7 volcanoes including Mt. Hibok-Hibok and Mt. Vulcan
    • Beaches: White Island Beach, Agohay Beach, and Yumbing Beach
    • Waterfalls: Katibawasan Falls, Tuasan Falls, and Binangawan Falls
  7. 7
    4
    votes
    Mindoro Island
    Emmanuel Campos · CC BY-SA 4.0
    Mindoro Island is a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkeling, with several world-class dive sites.
    Mindoro Island is the seventh largest island in the Philippines and is located in the southwestern part of Luzon. It is divided into two provinces, Occidental Mindoro and Oriental Mindoro, which offer a diverse range of natural attractions and cultural experiences. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, lush mountains, pristine dive sites, and traditional indigenous tribes.
    • Size: 10,571 square kilometers
    • Provinces: Occidental Mindoro and Oriental Mindoro
    • Location: Southwestern part of Luzon, Philippines
    • Beaches: Stunning white sand beaches such as White Beach and Sabang Beach
    • Mountains: Mountain ranges including Mount Halcon and Mount Malasimbo
  8. 8
    10
    votes
    Siquijor Island - known for its mysticism and natural beauty, including stunning beaches, waterfalls, and forests.
    Siquijor Island is a small and picturesque island located in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines. Known as the 'Island of Fire', it captivates visitors with its enchanting beaches, crystal clear waters, lush forests, and mystical charm. Siquijor Island is famous for its traditional healing practices, folk legends, and mystical rituals. It is also a popular destination for snorkeling and diving, thanks to its diverse marine life and vibrant coral reefs.
    • Location: Central Visayas, Philippines
    • Size: 343 square kilometers
    • Population: around 95,000
    • Capital: Siquijor
    • Beaches: beautiful white sand beaches
  9. 9
    5
    votes
    Batanes Island - famous for its scenic landscapes, including rolling hills, breathtaking cliffs, and traditional stone houses.
    Batanes Island is a picturesque destination located in the northernmost province of the Philippines. It is known for its stunning landscapes, rugged cliffs, rolling hills, and breathtaking coastline. The island offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality, making it a sought-after destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
    • Location: Northernmost province of the Philippines
    • Geography: Rugged cliffs, rolling hills, and stunning coastline
    • Natural Beauty: Picturesque landscapes and scenic views
    • Culture: Rich Ivatan heritage and traditions
    • Hospitality: Warm and welcoming local communities
  10. 10
    0
    votes

    Samal Island

    Natural Formation
    Samal Island is a popular beach destination near Davao City, known for its stunning beaches and island-hopping opportunities.
    Samal Island is a picturesque destination located in the southern region of Mindanao, Philippines. It is known for its pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and lush greenery. The island offers a peaceful and laid-back atmosphere, making it an ideal getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
    • Location: Southern Mindanao, Philippines
    • Size: 301.29 square kilometers
    • Accessibility: Accessible via ferry from Davao City
    • Beaches: Numerous stunning white-sand beaches
    • Marine Life: Rich in diverse marine species and vibrant coral reefs
    Samal Island in other rankings

Missing your favorite island?

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Ranking factors for popular island

  1. Number of visitors
    The number of tourists and local visitors that frequent the island is a strong indicator of its popularity.
  2. Scenic beauty and natural attractions
    The island's beaches, landscapes, mountains, and other natural attractions will heavily influence its popularity.
  3. Access and transportation
    The ease of getting to the island, including the frequency and convenience of flights, boat services, and other transportation options, are critical factors.
  4. Accommodations and amenities
    The availability and quality of accommodations, such as hotels, resorts, guesthouses, and Airbnb rentals, contribute to the island's popularity. Amenities like restaurants, shops, and tourist facilities also play a role.
  5. Activities and entertainment
    The variety of activities and entertainment options available on the island, such as water sports, hiking, nightlife, and cultural experiences, influence its attractiveness to visitors.
  6. Safety and cleanliness
    The perceived safety and cleanliness of the island, including low crime rates and well-maintained public spaces, can impact its popularity.
  7. Cultural and historical significance
    The presence of historical sites, cultural festivals, and unique local traditions can draw visitors to the island.
  8. Environmental sustainability
    The island's efforts to maintain and protect its natural resources, wildlife, and ecosystems can also play a role in attracting environmentally conscious tourists.
  9. Reputation and word of mouth
    Travel blogs, social media influencers, and word-of-mouth recommendations from friends and family can significantly impact an island's popularity.
  10. Value for money
    The overall cost of visiting the island, including accommodation, transportation, food, and activities, can influence tourists' decision-making and the island's popularity ranking.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most popular island in the Philippines. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or Isle is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 1449 views
  • 158 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each Isle once every 24 hours. The rank of each Isle is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most popular island in the philippines

The Philippines is a tropical paradise known for its stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and lush greenery. With over 7,000 islands, it's no surprise that the country is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. When it comes to the most popular island in the Philippines, opinions vary. Some prefer the bustling nightlife and vibrant culture of Boracay, while others opt for the serene beaches and stunning scenery of Palawan. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or simply a change of scenery, the Philippines has an island to suit your needs. So, what is the most popular island in the Philippines? Let's take a look at the results of our StrawPoll and find out.

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