For a long time, Bali and Thailand have been the go-to escapes for Aussies seeking affordable luxury in a slice of paradise, but it seems the nation’s attention is shifting toward another island nirvana – the Philippines. Recent data from travel experiences booking platform, Klook, reveals a 57% increase in demand for the destination among Australians in the past year.
With flight connections to the Philippines on the rise, including low-cost options, and boasting pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and luxurious accommodation across the islands, it’s not hard to see why the destination is experiencing a tourism boom among Aussies looking for a fresh adventure.
“We’re seeing more Australians discover the Philippines through Klook, drawn by its stunning islands, vibrant food scene, and a wide range of activities for families or solo travellers. With the cost of living rising, the Philippines is an attractive option for those looking to make the most of their well-earned holiday without compromising on experiences. From island-hopping to cultural experiences, the Philippines offers a true sense of discovery and authenticity that most Aussies look for when travelling overseas,” said Henry Hooper, Klook’s Managing Director of Oceania, UK and The Americas.
Here are some of the most popular places to go and things to experience in the Philippines, which are drawing increasing numbers of Australian travellers.
The islands of Palawan: A true tropical oasis
Imagine clear aquamarine lagoons, lakes, and secluded beaches – perfect for snorkelling, kayaking, and guided island-hopping boat trips. Nestled at the northernmost point of Palawan, El Nido is celebrated for its dramatic limestone cliffs, crystal-clear hidden lagoons, and pristine remote beaches. Among its must-see attractions are the Big and Small Lagoons framed by towering rock formations, the Secret Beach—reachable only by swimming through a narrow passage in the cliffs—along with Shimizu Island and the picturesque Seven Commandos Beach.
Meanwhile, recognised as the gateway to Palawan’s most renowned attractions, Puerto Princesa—the province’s capital—boasts a wide selection of hotels and resorts, along with convenient access to island-hopping excursions and breathtaking natural scenery. You can base yourself in Puerto Princesa and nearby areas to cruise through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Puerto Princesa Subterranean River, a limestone cave system with vast chambers, and set off on a Honda Bay island-hopping adventure featuring stops at Starfish Island, Pandan Island, and Cowrie Island.
Boracay: Sun-soaked fun and nightlife
Known for a huge range of beachside luxury and budget accommodation options, from boutique hotels to global hotel chains. Boracay is also the place to be for coastal activities such as kitesurfing, sunset sailing on a traditional paraw, and paragliding, as well as its vibrant nightlife, boasting a variety of beach clubs, bars, and restaurants. The tranquil white sandy tropical shores of Boracay’s White Beach come to life after dark – the undisputed party zone of the island. Here, you can watch the sun setting over the ocean while enjoying a cold drink or a bite to eat.
Cebu & surrounding islands: The adventure hub
With the first direct connection from Australia to Cebu about to be launched from Brisbane in November 2025, it will become even easier for Aussies to get to know the island province of Cebu – home to the Philippines’ oldest city of Cebu City and renowned for its stunning beaches, coastal activities, and vibrant urban lifestyle.
Known as the ‘Queen City of the South’, Cebu and the surrounding Visayan Islands are an exciting fusion of rural island life, historical sites, and bustling metropolis. Cebu attracts travellers seeking relaxation as well as outdoor adventurers for its world-class resorts, snorkelling and scuba diving on the coral reefs, and other activities in the region’s scenic surrounds, such as visiting waterfalls, hiking and canyoning. Mactan Island in Cebu is one of the premier destinations for those who are looking for a perfect resort getaway.
Siargao: The surf and wellness capital
Often compared to Bali’s Canggu decades ago, Siargao is a laid-back island known for world-class surf breaks like the famous Cloud 9 in the vibrant town of General Luna. When you’re not surfing, you can hop between palm-fringed lagoons, rock pools, and secluded islets, or simply relax at one of Siargao’s many boutique surf or yoga retreats.
Take a guided tour in a Kayak through Siargao’s mango forests, where your journey through the shallow waters will be steady and relaxing, allowing you to take in the sights of marine life, birds and a variety of other wildlife up close. Two of the most popular areas to experience kayaking through mangroves in Siargao are near Del Carmen and at Sohoton Cave, which often combines mangrove kayaking with island hopping. Meanwhile, Siargao has a thriving café culture and plentiful boutique bars to enjoy your morning pick-me-up or a relaxing sundowner. Most of them also boast fast and free WiFi connections, which makes them the perfect place for digital nomads to catch up on work against an idyllic tropical backdrop.
