Taal Volcano is best seen from the water. This roughly seven-hour outing gives you two very different views of the volcano: first from the Tagaytay ridge, then from a government-regulated boat on Taal Lake. I like the door-to-door transport, which removes the stress of Manila traffic, and I like the chance to see fishing nets, … Read more
A very early start buys you three big Cebu sights. This full-day trip links whale shark snorkeling in Oslob, Tumalog Falls, and the sardine run with sea turtles in Moalboal. I like the efficient route, the hotel pickup and drop-off, and the chance to see very different sides of southern Cebu in one day. The … Read more
Dolphins start the day. This five-hour Panglao boat trip pairs early morning dolphin watching with snorkeling at Balicasag Island, where you may see coral, tropical fish, and sea turtles. I like the low $34 price and the small shared boat limited to 10 people. The main concern is crowding, especially around the dolphins and turtle … Read more
Two Palawan icons fit into one long day. I like the Underground River cruise for its unusual cave formations and protected setting, and I like having Ugong Rock’s climb and zipline added without arranging a second excursion. The main drawback is the long road journey, plus some uneven organization caused by government-controlled Underground River scheduling. … Read more
Coron’s best water stops fit into one busy day. This eight-hour island-hopping trip links Barracuda Lake, Twin Lagoons, Reef Garden, Skeleton Wreck, and Smith Beach, with hotel pickup, a boat, guide, permits, and buffet lunch included. I like the mix of freshwater swimming and saltwater snorkeling, and I also like that the route includes both … Read more
Nighttime Palawan has its own light show. At Iwahig River, you travel by boat through dark mangroves while fireflies flicker in the trees. I like the quiet river setting and the boat guide’s lively, funny way of spotting the insects. The main drawback is value: at $38 per person, the 45-minute cruise may feel short … Read more
The sea looks best from above. El Nido’s zipline sends you from a forested hillside toward an island, with clear water, limestone cliffs, and Las Cabanas Beach spread below. I like the spectacular position and the choice between a seated ride and the more exciting Superman pose. I also like that the activity is short, … Read more
Comfort changes the whole island day. This Coron trimaran tour combines famous lagoons and beaches with space to rest, a barbecue buffet, and free kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling. I especially like the onboard chef and attentive crew, plus the upper deck, hammocks, shower, toilet, and lounges. The main catch is price: at $187 per person, … Read more
Nature does the heavy lifting here. The Puerto Princesa Underground River tour takes you from the city to a limestone coast, then into a dark cave where an underground river runs straight toward the sea. I like the well-organized transport, which includes city pickup, air-conditioning, boat transfers, and the return trip. I also like the … Read more
Sun, sea, and a plate of Filipino food make a fine Palawan day. This Honda Bay tour combines small-group boat travel with swimming, snorkeling, and unhurried time on Lu-Li and Cowrie islands. I like the included lunch and the chance to avoid arranging your own boat, especially if you want a simple day outside Puerto … Read more
