This long winter has had me dreaming of beaches for months on end and I know I'm not the only one. I'm excited to be heading back to Asia on holiday soon, so it seemed a perfect time to start lusting over the endless, gorgeous beaches that will be awaiting me when I head back. Sadly I won't be going to the Philippines this time, but as it has been one of my dream destinations for years. But I'm excited to share this list of seven hidden beaches to explore in the Philippines. If you're looking for the perfect place to escape the crowds and find an untouched part of the world just for yourself, you'll want to check out these gorgeous sands on your next trip.

With 35,000km of coastline, beach lovers have never had it as good as in the Philippines. Boasting pristine stretches of sand, these hidden gems include some of the best beaches in the world, so head there before others find out. You may have your work cut out reaching some of these spots, but if you are willing to go the extra mile, then I can assure you your beach trip will turn into an epic journey.

Hidden beaches in the Philippines

Seven hidden beaches

Tikling Beach, Sorsogon

Really escape the crowds at Tikling Beach, where you won't find any infrastructure, upscale accommodation or restaurants. However, what it lacks in basics is more than made up by the stunning pink sand beaches which have been created by the crushed red corals which are still found in abundance, making it also a fantastic snorkeling location. This still undeveloped piece of paradise lies just off the coast of Matnog, Sorsogon, and can only be reached by a thirty-minute ride from there. This is after you have already undertaken the fourteen-hour overland journey from Manila. Alternatively, you could fly to Legazpi and take a van from there.

Casapsapan Beach, Casiguran Aurora

Casapsapan Beach is another hidden gem, known just to a handful of people. The beach has fine cream-colored sand, crystal clear waters and acres and acres of virgin mangrove forest not to be found anywhere else. To reach this beautiful place you need to get to Baler via Manila and Cabanatuan. Baler is a fantastic destination in its own right, especially popular among surfers. Once you reach Baler, you can catch a taxi van to bring you to the beach.

Colibra Island Beach, Dasol, Pangasinan

Visitors find this island beach captivating for a number of reasons. Apart from the powdery sand and clear water, the beach is so tiny that it can be covered in fifteen minutes. Snorkeling is the principal attraction in Colibra. The best way to access Colibra is by catching one of the limited bus services from Cubao headed for Sta. Cruz, and which passes through the town of Dasol.

Hidden beaches in the Philippines

Anguib Beach, Sta.Ana, Ilocos

Catch the waves on this clear white sand beach as you gaze at the sight of the sun dipping into the Pacific Ocean. Often referred to as the “Boracay of the North”, Anguib deserves this compliment simply because here, you can really experience the beauty of Mother Nature at her finest.

Alegria Beach, Siargao

If you are seeking the ultimate place to unwind and relax during your holiday in Siargao, just opt for a scenic drive to the secluded Alegria Beach towards the North. A short one and half hour drive via Tak Tak falls, will bring you to this picture postcard pretty place. Apart from a few locals, you will find no tourists there. The water is still and allows for swimming, which is not possible on any another beach in Siargao.

Calaguas, Camarines Norte

The locals all praise this paradise off the beaten path, serene and unspoilt. White sands, clear water and the perfect spot to escape the holiday-makers. Calaguas is a relaxing and idyllic destination, perfect for couples and backpackers. A holiday here, rarely fails to live up to the experience expected of a tropical island trip.

7 hidden beaches to explore in the Philippines

The raw and untouched beauty of the Philippines can be found at hundreds of great beaches spread all over this archipelago nation. Spots like Boracay and Palawan have become legendary as far as the tourist radar is concerned. Popular as they are, they tend to be too crowded. By straying from the beaten track, you could easily explore these beaches above, which are equally beautiful and a lot emptier. These hidden gems may be difficult to access, but they are avenues to an adventure trip like no other – and we all know I love an adventure!

Have you been to the Philippines? Where are the best beaches you've found? Where will your next beach trip take you?

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