81 PROVINCES OF THE PHILIPPINES: Best Places to Visit & Tourist Spots in the Philippines

Have you been to all of the 81 Provinces in the Philippines? I did! Now, let me share to you my favorite tourist spots and best places to visit in the Philippines!

When I launched my blog as "Pinoy AdvenTurista" in 2010, I started the challenge of visiting all the provinces in the Philippines. Still a newbie, nobody knows who Pinoy Adventurista is. So, the personal challenge of visiting all the 81 provinces in the Philippines was born. Honestly, it was just my way "to get noticed". But after a few months, when people started to like and got interested about the challenge, I made it the main theme of my blog - "To share my travels and adventures as I tick-off each of the 81 provinces on the Philippine map."

81 BEST PLACES TO VISIT & TOURIST SPOTS IN THE PHILIPPINES

In 2013, I am proud to say that I have visited all the 81 provinces in the Philippines. With this, let me share to you my top 81 places to visit and top tourist spots in all of the 81 Provinces of the Philippines. These are my personal favorites!

1. ABRA: Victoria Park in Bangued Abra

Victoria Park in Bangued Abra is where you can enjoy the stunning view of Bangued, the Abra valley, Abra river and the Ilocos Mountains, plus the cool breeze of the wind. Truly awesome!

2. AGUSAN DEL NORTE: Bonbon, Butuan City

This mountainous side of Butuan City is where you'll have a stunning view of the mountains and valleys surrounding the city.

3. AGUSAN DEL SUR: Masapya Falls

Masapya Falls in Bunawan, Surigao del Sur is nice place to cool down!

4. AKLAN: Boracay Island

One of the world's best island. Boracay is efinitely a favorite beach not only by Filipinos but also by foreign tourists.

5. ALBAY: Mayon Volcano in Legazpi City

What could be better than the perfect cone of Mayon Volcano? Truly, Mayon magayon!

6. APAYAO: Pudtol Church Ruins, Apayao

When in Apayao, a must visit is the old church ruins of Pudtol. This stone church which is now a ruin was built in 1684. The church with thick walls is really quite old. Only the back and the side walls remained at the site. It has a small altar at the middle with at few benches at the center.

7. ANTIQUE: Tibiao

How's a kawa hot bath appeal to you? One of Tibiao's main attractions, the kawa is a huge fryer that was transformed into a tub where one can enjoy a hot bath. It relaxes and soothes tired muscles. The leaves put into the water is said to cure some skin disorders and adds aroma for a relaxing bath. So if you want to experience the feeling of "being cooked" with real fire underneath, the Kawa Hot Bath is a must-do activity when visiting Tibiao.

8. AURORA: Diguisit Beach, Baler

Enjoy the stunning rock formations battered by crashing waves. These eye-catching rock formations will make you in admiration for a long time. You may choose to hop from one rock formation to another and take photos with the Aniao Islets as a breath-taking back drop. Definitely, one of the best tourist spots in Baler!

9. BASILAN: Malamawi Island

Malamawi is a small island off the coast of Isabela City, Basilan. An "off-the-beaten" destination that you should visit!

10. BATAAN: Mt. Samat in Pilar, Bataan

Bataan is known for its historical sites. One of these is the "Dambana ng Kagitigan" also known as Shrine of Valor on top of Mt. Samat. Remember what was taught in your Sibika and Kultura subject?

11. BATANES: Basco Lighthouse

Batanes has so many instagram-worthy spots. But this lighthouse on top of Naidi Hills is one of my favorites!

12. BATANGAS: Isla Verde, Batangas City

Isla Verde (Verde Island) is one of the must-visit "off-the-beaten" destinations in Batangas. The island is located between the islands of Luzon and Mindoro, along Verde Island Passage which is dubbed as the "Center of the Center of Marine Biodiversity in the World."

13. BENGUET: Mt. Timbac, Kabayan Benguet

This is where you'll find the fire mummies of Kabayan Benguet!

14. BILIRAN: Tinago Falls, Biliran

One of the most beautiful waterfalls in the province of Biliran!

15. BOHOL: Chocolate Hills in Carmen

One of the icons of Bohol, who would miss out going to the world's famous landmark of Bohol? Formed centuries ago by tidal movements, the hills are considered as a National Geologic Movement. During summers, the dome-shaped hills covered with grass dries up and turns brown, which makes the area into seemingly endless rows of chocolate kisses.

16. BUKIDNON: Gantungan Falls

Located inside the Center for Ecological Development and Recreation is a reforestation project developed and managed by the Local Government Unit of Impasug-ong and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. Waterfalls hopping and trekking inside the park is one of the best things to do when visiting Bukidnon.

17. BULACAN: Barasoain Church in Malolos

Built in 1888, Barasoain Church is dubbed as the "Cradle of Democracy in the East," the most important religious building in the Philippines, and the site of the First Philippine Republic.

ALSO READ: Must-Visit Churches in the Philippines

18. CAGAYAN: Anguib Beach in Sta. Ana Cagayan

Set on a picturesque backdrop of lush verdant hills, Anguib Beach is a certified tropical heaven.

19. CAMARINES NORTE: Bagasbas Beach in Daet

When in Daet, one should not miss riding the waves of Bagasbas Beach. It is considered as one of the best surfing spots in the Philippines.

20. CAMARINES SUR: Caramoan Islands

Approaching the islands, you'll see towering limestone and rock formations enveloped by clear turquoise waters. You'll also witness breathtaking islands and islets, small and long stretches of white sand beaches and stunning views of lush greenery. The countless islands in Caramoan are truly awesome works of nature.

21. CAMIGUIN: Sunken Cemetery

This is the white cross erected to mark the cemetery that was swept by the volcanic birth of Mt. Vulcan that led to the sinking of the town's cemetery at below sea level. There are boats that you can hire to bring you to the cross. I suggest that you visit it late afternoon as it is a wonderful spot to watch the breathtaking sun setting at the background. It's also an ideal place for snorkeling and diving.

22. CAPIZ: Sta. Monica Church, Pan-ay

When in Capiz, one should not miss a visit to Sta. Monica Church where you could find the biggest church bell in the Philippines and probably in Asia.

23. CATANDUANES: Puraran Beach, Baras

Known for majestic waves, Puraran Beach is a favorite destinations for local and foreign surfers.

24. CAVITE: Corregidor Island

Corregidor Island is considered as "one of the country's last military bastions," that served as one of the harbor defenses of Manila Bay during the Second World War II. Located in the province of Cavite, it has been declared as a protected area and is one of the most-visited tourist destinations in the Philippines.

25. CEBU: Kawasan Falls in Badian

This is propbably the most popular falls in Cebu. Kawasan falls is located at Matutinao in the town of Badian, 130 kilometers southwest of Cebu City. It is definitely worth the long travel just to see this marvelous waterfalls. This is one of the most beautiful waterfalls I've been to. Definitely a must-visit when in Cebu!

26. COMPOSTELA VALLEY: Mainit Hot Spring in Maco

Hot Spring and Waterfalls in one! This is Mainit Sulfuric Hot Spring in Maco, Compostela Valley! A one-of-a-kind waterfalls in the Philippines!

27. DAVAO DEL NORTE: Haguimit Falls, Samal Island

Composed of small waterfalls with natural swimming pools and huge rock formations, Haguimit Falls is great place to just relax and take a dip on cold fresh water.

28. DAVAO DEL SUR: Passig Islet

An islet located in Sta. Cruz Davao del Sur, it is favorite beach destination by locals and tourist visiting the province.

29. DAVAO OCCIDENTAL: Sta. Maria, Davao Occidental

Called as "Little Boracay", this is a nice beach with a long stretch of semi-fine white sand in Sta. Maria, Davao Occidental.

30. DAVAO ORIENTAL: Mati, Davao Oriental

When visiting Mati, Davao Oriental, one should not miss is a stopover to see the sleeping dinosaur.

31. DINAGAT ISLAND: Basilisa, Dinagat Island

This is one of the best spots to watch the sunset overlooking the islands and islets of Dinagat Islands.

32. EASTERN SAMAR: Balangiga, Eastern Samar

A simple yet very appealing church. This is a historical church as this is where the Balangiga Massacre happened 1901.

33. GUIMARAS: Guisi Lighthouse

This 18th century Guisi Point Lighthouse is located in Brgy. Dolores in the town of Nueva Valencia, Guimaras. A short hike will take you to the lighthouse built on top of a hill during the Spanish-colonial time. It was built to guide passing ships cruising along the Guimaras Strait.

34. IFUGAO: Banaue Rice Terraces

The Banaue Rice Terraces are the wonderful works of our ancestors in Ifugao province. Carved into the mountains some 2000 years ago, it is still being used to plant rice, vegetables and other crops. It's "a childhood dream come true" for me to see it as I grew up learning it from the Social Studies books I have in grade school. I am delighted to finally see it for myself.

35. ILOCOS NORTE: Paoay and La Paz Sand Dunes

These are a distinct land formations, declared as National Geological Monument by the National Committee on Geological Sciences in 1993. A must-do is sand boarding along the slopes of the sand dunes.

36. ILOCOS SUR: Calle Crisologo, Vigan

The Heritage City of Vigan is considered as one of the best-preserved examples of a planned Spanish colonial town in Asia which dates back to the 16th century colonial period. Due to its cultural significance, it was inscribed at the UNESCO World Heritage List of Sites and Monuments in 1999.

37. ILOILO: Isla de Gigantes, Carles

The Gigantes Group of Islands is an adventurer's haven where one can relax, unwind, enjoy and be one with nature. It is now one of the top tourist drawers of the province of Iloilo divided into two groups: Gigantes Norte and Gigantes Sur. If you love pristine white sand beaches with clear blue waters, island hopping, seafood and nature tripping, a Gigantes Islands Adventure is right for you!

38. ISABELA: Tumauini Church

A centuries-old church famous for its cylindrical bell tower, Tumauini Church was declared by the government a National Historical Landmark on February 24, 1989.

39. KALINGA: Tingalayan Village

When traveling to Kalinga Province, pay a visit to the town of Tingalayan where you could see the tattooed women of Tinglayan. History tells us that these women have their tattoos as ornaments which signifies beauty and makes them more attractive to their suitors. Some have it like a necklaces and full sleeves on their arms. While for the men, it is a sign of bravery as warriors who have killed their enemies.

40. LA UNION: San Juan Surfing Spot

One of the best surfing spots in North Philippines. The town of San Juan is definitely a must-visit when La Union.

41. LAGUNA: Pagsanjan Falls

Locally known as Magdapio Falls, this waterfalls is one of the most-visited Philippine day trip destinations. Though it is more popularly known as Pagsanjan Falls, it is actually located in the town of Cavinti, an adjacent town to Pagsanjan, Laguna. This will relieve your childhood memories as this is one of the tourist spots we learned in our Sibika at Kultura subject in grade school.

42. LANAO DEL NORTE: Maria Christina Falls, Iligan City

Another waterfalls that we knew from our grade school years, the Maria Christina Falls is considered as the 2nd highest waterfalls in the Philippines at approximately 320 feet high. It is also one of the most visited waterfalls in the country.

43. LANAO DEL SUR: MSU Marawi City

Midanao State University (MSU) in Marawi City is the flagship and the biggest campus of the MSU System. It was founded in 1961 with a vision of being the “Premier Supra-Regional University in the MINSUPALA (Mindanao, Sulu Archipelago, and Palawan) region”.

44. LEYTE: San Juanico Bridge

A monumental landmark that stretches from Samar to Leyte across the San Juanico Strait. At a total length of 2.16 kilometers, it is considered the longest bridge in the Philippines crossing a body of seawater. Completed in 1973, it was used to be called as Marcos Bridge as it was built during the regime of former president Ferdinand Marcos. It is said that this is a "Gift" and a "Testimonial of Love" by Marcos to his wife and a native of Leyte, Imelda Romualdez Marcos. Definitely, an instagram-worthy destination when visiting Tacloban City, Leyte.

45. MAGUINDANAO: Al Jamelah Weaving Center

Al Jamelah Weaving Center is located in the municipality of Datu Odin Sinsuat in the province of Maguindanao. Here, you can see how the traditional Maguindanaon handwoven fabric called inaul is made.

46. MARINDUQUE: Moriones Festival

The best time to visit Marinduque is during holy week. Don't miss to have a "selfie" with the Morions roaming around the streets of Marinduque during holy week.

47. MASBATE: Island Hoping in Ticao Island

Island hopping in Masbate is one of my favorites! This is Halea Nature Park in Monreal, Ticao Island, Masbate!

48. MINDORO OCCIDENTAL: Sablayan

Pandan Island is Occidental Mindoro’s west side diving attraction. Surrounded with nice stretch of white sand beaches with lush tropical forests, it is a perfect island getaway for any beach lovers.

49. MINDORO ORIENTAL: Puerto Galera

Aside form the white sand beach of Puerto Galera, also a must-visit is the Taramaw Falls.

50. MISAMIS OCCIDENTAL: Cotta Fort, Ozamiz City

Built in 1756 by Father Jose Ducos to serve as a Spanish outpost in the area, the Cotta Fort is a stone fort built along the shores of Panguil Bay which is now the Port of Ozamiz. It is rectangular in shape typical to many Spanish fortresses and has four bulwarks named as San Ignacio, San Fernando, San Jose and Santiago.

51. MISAMIS ORIENTAL: Cagayan de Oro City

Sauntering around Cagayan de Oro City, indulging in its great food, and shopping for bargains are just some of the best things to do when in the "City of Golden Friendship."

52. MOUNTAIN PROVINCE: Mt. Kiltepan, Sagada

When in Sagada, wake up early and witness a mesmerizing sunrise at Mt. Kiltepan.

53. NEGROS OCCIDENTAL: Silay City

Identified as one of the 25 major tourist destinations in the country by the Department of Tourism, Silay City is considered as the “Seat of arts, culture and eco-tourism in Western Visayas”. Visit the San Diego Pro-Cathedral, Explored the Heritage Houses and taste the local flavors. For those who love heritage houses, Silay will definitely bring joy to your heart.

54. NEGROS ORIENTAL: Apo Island

Apo island is a 12 hectare volcanic island located 7 kilometers off the southeastern tip of Negros Island or 25 kilometers south of Dumaguete City, the capital of Negros Oriental province. It is a small island known for its underwater activities such as snorkeling and diving because of rich marine life. Apo Island Protected Landscape and Seascape, has a Marine Sanctuary which is considered as one of the oldest protected marine reserves in the Philippines.

55. NORTH COTABATO: Kidapawan City

Kidapawan is one of the major tourist destinations of the province of North Cotabato as the it lies at the foot of the majestic Mt. Apo, the country's tallest mountain. Kidapawan comes from the words "tida" which means spring and "pawan" meaning highland, thus the city is called as "A Spring in the Highland". There are high altitude places in the city that are best to visit during summer season for it's cool climate.

56. NORTHERN SAMAR: Biri Islands

The island municipality of Biri in Northern Samar is one of the most underrated tourist destination in the country. An off-the-beaten destination that most intrepid travelers dare to visit. Don't miss it's stunning rock formations. Every spot is definitely "Instagram-worthy!"

57. NUEVA ECIJA: Minalungao National Park

Located in Gen. Tinio Nueva Ecija, Minalungao National Park is a protected area enacted on 1967 by virtue of Republic Act No. 5100. It is known for its clean flowing river, towering rock formations, and clean and peaceful environment. One of the most distinguishable features of the park are the high limestone walls on both sides leading to a cave.

58. NUEVA VIZCAYA: Dupax del Sur

Considered as well-preserved church complex in Nueva Vizcaya, San Vicente de Ferrer Church in Dupax del Sur is among the town's best preserved Spanish colonial monuments. Constructed in the 18th century by the Dominican order, it is one of the oldest stone churches in Northern Luzon and was declared a National Cultural Treasure.

59. PALAWAN: El Nido Island Hopping

Considered as one of the "best islands in the world," El Nido is a nature lovers paradise!

El Nido Travel Guide with DIY Itinerary

60. PAMPANGA: Clark

Aside from being known as the "Culinary Capital of the Philippines," Pampangas is also a must-visit during February for the annual Philippines International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta in Clark.

61. PANGASINAN: Hundred Islands, Alaminos

Composed of 123 islands and islets, Hundred Islands National Park in Alaminos City, is considered as one of the top tourist spots and attractions in Pangasinan. This group of islands scattered in Lingayen Gulf, is a must-see if you want to experience tropical paradise in Pangasinan - whether on a day tour, camping trip or overnight island escape.

62. QUEZON: Padre Burgos

Borawan and Dampalitan beaches in the town of Padre Burgos are the two most-popular beaches in Quezon. Borawan beach's rock formations and shoreline are really awesome. It doesn't have the usual long stretch of white sand beach of Boracay, but it's full of huge rock boulders with a backdrop of high limestone walls like what Palawan has. These features make Borawan beach uniquely beautiful. Dampalitan Beach is also as lovely as Borawan. It's an undeveloped beach with a long stretch of shoreline as compared to Borawan Beach.

63. QUIRINO: Aglipay Caves

Quirino province may not be a usual tourist destination, but it certainly has a lot to offer especially for adventure seekers. One of the major tourist drawers of the province are the Aglipay Caves. Surrounded with several hectares of pristine forest in the heart of the province, the cave system can be found in Barangay Villa Ventura in the town of Aglipay. It is composed of 37 caves, 8 of which have been developed as tourist spots recommended for camping activities and other outdoor functions.

64. RIZAL: Daraitan in Tanay

Daraitan is a trekking destination nestled within the Sierra Madre mountain range in Tanay Rizal. Activities to enjoy in Daraitan includes camping, river trekking, rock climbing, swimming, spelunking, among many others. Daraitan is a fascinating place that offers many things: river, mountains, caves, rock formations, and a lot more.

65. ROMBLON: Talipasak Beach

Talipasak Beach is so lovely and pristine! It has fine white sandy beach that is soft to the feet. One of the most striking features of this beach are the towering stone walls teeming with lush greens on both sides of the beach that forms the lovely the beach. The water is clear and calm, ideal for swimming.

66. SAMAR: Sohoton National Park in Basey

The park itself is situated in a large land of several hectares made of geological features such as caves, limestone boulders, and underground rivers. The one to look out for would have to be the cathedral-like caves and the Sohoton Natural Bridge. This awe-inspiring natural bridge connects two mountain ridges of spanning the Sohoton River. The upper portion of the bridge is forested while the underside is made of giant formations of stalactites.

67. SARANGANI: Gumasa Beach in Glan

Known for its fine white sand and long stretch of shoreline, Gumasa Beach in Glan Sarangani is one of the best beaches in Southern Mindanao.

68. SIQUIJOR: Cambugahay Falls

Made of a cascading 3-level waterfalls, with fresh and clean water coming from natural springs. There are small pools where one can sit, relax and just let the rushing water massage your body.

69. SORSOGON: Bulusan Lake

Bulusan Volcano Natural Park is a nationally protected rain forest surrounding Mt. Bulusan, the highest peak in Sorsogon. It features the active Bulusan volcano, the lake, and two other mountain formations known as as Sharp Peak and Hormahan, and Lake Aguingay. Bulusan lake can be found at the foot of the volcano surrounded by lush green forest.

70. SULTAN KUDARAT: Isulan

One of the most distinguishable spots on the province of Sultan Kudarat is their Moro-inspired provincial capitol building located in the capital town of Isulan. The whitewashed capitol building was built in a sprawling complex and features a big golden dome at the center with Moro architecture and a giant statue of Sultan Kudarat in its grounds.

71. SULU: Jolo Port

This is the best spot to take a stunning photo of the sunset in Jolo, Sulu. Go here during sunset.

72. SOUTH COTABATO: Lake Sebu

Located in the province of South Cotabato in Mindanao, Lake Sebu affords visitors an awesome place to relax and unwind with its cool climate. Dubbed as the "Summer Capital of Southern Mindanao", it is a peaceful, idyllic fishing town, and the ancestral domain of the indigenous T’boli tribe. With an estimated elevation of 1,000 meters above sea level, the temperature in Lake Sebu is comparable to Tagaytay City which ranges between 20ºC to 25ºC.

73. SOUTHERN LEYTE: Sogod

Agas-Agas Bridge in Brgy. Kahupian, Sogod, Southern Leyte is the tallest bridge in the Philippines. Who doesn't want to have an "instagram-worthy" photo of the Philippines' tallest bridge?

74. SURIGAO DEL NORTE: Siargao Island

The strong waves coming from the Pacific Ocean make Siargao Island one of the most popular surfing destinations in the country. Dubbed as "The Surfing Capital of the Philippines", Siargao is a favorite among local and international surfers. The best time to visit is every September when local and international surfing competitions are held and organized by the provincial government of Surigao del Norte.

75. SURIGAO DEL SUR: Tinuy-an Falls in Bislig

Located at Barangay Borboanan in Bislig City, the waterfalls spans at 95 meters wide with a 55 meters plunge from its three cascading falls. The water that drapes and cascades through the three waterfalls features a curtain of white froth that makes Tinuy-an Falls worth the long travel. Definitely, one of the most "instagram-worthy" waterfalls in the Philippines!

76. TARLAC: Mt. Pinatubo via Capas

A "beautiful disaster..." Mt. Pinatubo is one of the most lovely volcano crater lake in the Philippines. This is also one of the best hiking destinations north of Metro Manila.

77. TAWI-TAWI: Bud Bongao

Considered as the highest mountain in Tawi-tawi, it is also a sacred ground for our Muslim brothers and sisters.

78. ZAMBALES: Nagsasa Cove

One of the best coves in Zambales, dotted with agoho trees and ideal for camping and beach bumming.

79. ZAMBOANGA DEL NORTE: Dapitan City

Relieve Jose Rizal's life by visiting the historical sites in Dapitan City where he lived in exile for several years.

80. ZAMBOANGA DEL SUR: Pagadian City

Get an overlooking view of the city by going to Pagadian City's rotunda. Here, you'll enjoy an elevated view high above the downtown area overlooking the blue waters of Yllana Bay. This is a good spot to take a rest to just enjoy the great view.

81. ZAMBOANGA SIBUGAY: Kabasalan Town

When in Zamboanga Sibugay, go to the town of Kabasalan and meet Saudi Ahmad, "one of Mindanao's greatest living painter."

Indeed, the Philippines has so much to offer. I urge everyone to take the challenge! Not just by visiting all the 81 provinces in our country but to also experience the goodness in every Filipino's hearts.

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