Family trips in the Philippines

With relaxing beaches, lush forests, and exciting adventure activities, a Philippines family vacation is sure to be a highlight for kids and adults. With over 7,000 islands, the Philippines is an underrated destination in Southeast Asia. Offering a diverse range of destinations and activities, it's equally fantastic for families with both younger and older children.

What makes the Philippines a great destination for families?

There's plenty to see and do in the Philippines, so the kids will never be bored here. Whether it’s making sandcastles on striking white beaches or snorkeling with tropical fish, there are adventures aplenty to be had. The Filipino people are friendly and welcoming, and English is widely spoken, making traveling here simple and smooth. Being relatively close to the equator means temperatures here are warm throughout the year, so there’s lots of opportunity for outdoor fun.

Best things to do in the Philippines with kids

No matter the kind of family vacation you're looking for, you’ll find it in the Philippines. Here are the top things to do with the kids on your family vacation.

Explore Boracay's tropical paradise

Boracay is one of the best places in the Philippines for families. This stunning tropical island not only has amazing white beaches, it's also known for its relaxed vibe and reef-sheltered waters. Surf, windsurf, and kiteboard here, or simply cool off with a swim or snorkel in the clear waters.

Experience Cebu's history and culture

Another great spot for kids in the Philippines is Cebu City, the "Queen City of the South". You'll learn about local history at the Sugbo Museum, and discover archaeological finds and artifacts at the University of San Carlos Museum.

See Bohol's Chocolate Hills

Bohol is famous for its thousands of conical Chocolate Hills, with walking trails, mangrove forests, and beautiful lagoons to explore. Families looking to inject some adrenaline into their vacation will love the Danao Adventure Park, where you can zoom above the landscape on a number of zip lines or brave the great rappeling routes.

Discover Siquijor's tranquility

For a change of pace, the island of Siquijor is where verdant jungles meet quiet, sandy beaches. The island is home to Cambugahay Falls, which has bright turquoise waters, perfect for cooling off on a hot day. Learn more about the island's unique customs and legends during your visit.

Go dolphin watching in Pamilacan

A tiny island located just south of Bohol, the waters around Pamilacan are full of diverse marine life, including dolphins. This is a great spot for a family boat trip or snorkeling adventure. A dolphin watching tour combines all of these, allowing you to also swim in the beautifully clear waters.

Tips for planning a family vacation in the Philippines

When planning your Philippines family vacation, consider that traveling between the many islands can be time-consuming, so allow extra time in your itinerary. Some immunizations are required, too, so be sure to consult with your doctor before traveling. Avoid drinking the tap water in the Philippines, and stick to bottled water and other drinks. Street food should be approached with caution, especially for younger children.