The Philippines are located in Southeast Asia and are made up of hundreds of islands. The capital, Manila, is on the largest island, although there is a lot more to the Philippines than just Manila! You can also fly into Cebu City, there are lots of deals you can find online including this Cebu package with airfare included. The BEST places to visit in Philippines with kids are all in this article!
The Philippines is perfect for families and very safe, Filipino’s love children and you will find that kids are welcome everywhere. It also helps that English is spoken almost everywhere. You may find that in the most rural areas that locals will only speak Tagalog, but it is likely even there that they can find someone who can speak English if necessary.
International flights are likely to arrive in Manila and you can take internal flights from here to other islands in the Philippines.
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Where To Visit In The Philippines
Cebu
Cebu island is often overlooked, but if you can get a direct flight to Cebu CIty rather than Manila, it’s worth a few days exploring. There’s some great areas of snorkelling where you can watch sea turtles and whale sharks. Or explore the interior and discover hidden waterfalls. It’s also a good point to catch a boat to other islands. It’s only a short boat trip across to the island of Bohol where the famous Chocolate Hills are located.
Boracay
Boracay island is a popular destination for both tourists and Filipinos alike. It has several beautiful white and beaches, with White Beach stretching almost the whole length of the island. This is where all the popular beach resorts are located on Boracay.
Puka shell beach is also popular with tourists and less busy than White Beach. You will find plenty of boat tours being offered in Boracay, including the traditional Paraw sailing boats.
Panglao Island
Just off the island of Boracay is the tropical island of Panglao. Here you can find pristine beaches and luxurious hotels with modern comforts. Joined to Boracay by two bridges it’s easy to access Panglao. Many people visit for the beautiful snorkelling and best beaches in the Philippines.
Puerto Princesa
Located on the island of Palawan is Puerto Princesa, which is home to one of the 7 natural wonders of the world – Puerto Princesa subterranean river. It’s a fun place to explore, with karst mountains, plenty of caves and some impressive rock formations. Puerto Princesa underground river is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site! Definitely a place to stop for a couple of nights to explore. It’s one of the best family-friendly destinations in the Philippines.
El Nido
You will also find El Nido on the island of Palawan. El Nido is definitely one of the most popular places for a family vacation in the Philippines. it is the best place to view stunning karst mountains, explore amazing caves and try out water activities on the clear waters of the lagoon. There are plenty of boat tours that are perfect for families or wander around the town trying out delicious street food.
Coron
Just off the tip of the island of Palawan is the small collection of tropical islands with white sand beaches – Coron. It is a similar area to El Nido, but much quieter. It’s a great place for the whole family to enjoy the gorgeous beaches and lagoons and plenty of water sports too.
Family Attractions To Visit
The Philippines also have plenty of other family attractions to visit aside the natural wonders of the landscape. Kids of all ages will have a great time at the theme parks in the Philippines. With Enchanted Kingdom (or EK for short) being a top amusement park. Enchanted Kingdom is located in Santa Rosa, South of Manila.
Other amusement parks in the Philippines include Manila Ocean Park and Star City Manila, good for keeping the kids happy! Alternatively they are various zoos and the educational Mind Museum in Manila that is perfect for children.
Transportation
The best places to arrive into the Philippines are either Manila or Cebu City. The local airline that travels to all of the Philippines major cities is Philippine Airlines. It’s the easiest way to travel to other islands quickly. The other option is using the slower boats to travel between islands.
Public transportation is a little confusing but you can use the buses, boats, tuk tuks or taxi’s to get around the islands.