Mention beaches in the Visayas and the popular ones in Boracay, Cebu, and Iloilo come to mind. What do these famous beaches have in common? Azure water, fine white sand, and terrific sceneries. Also, these places are jam-packed with pricey accommodations.

But, there are beaches in the Visayas that are undiscovered. These are the underrated beaches left well-preserved spend less in these places enjoying the same amenities – perhaps more.

1. Sumilon Island

Location: Oslob, Cebu

Wonderful white sand beaches surround the area enjoy aquatic activities on the blue water.  Take a swim and get an up-close experience with whale sharks, marvel at the stunning underwater sea-life. Trip with nature hiking around the island, explore incredible underground caves.

• What to do and expect: White sandbar and beach, Swimming Pool, Diving
• Boat fee / package tour: ₱2,000-3,500 per group, good for 10-15pax — you may opt to join other groups as well.

2. Kalanggaman Island

Location: Palompon, Leyte

Escape from reality in this paradise island. Powdery white sands, thriving aquatic sea creatures, and warm turquoise water await beach lovers. Wait for it, you will fall in love with the magnificent sun rising and setting will make your heart melt.

• What to do and expect: White beach and sand bar, Diving
• Entrance Fee: ₱150 for locals, ₱500 for foreigners

3. Limasawa Island

Location: Limasawa, Southern Leyte

The spot where the first Christian Mass was held. Take selfies on the hill where the cross of Christianity was planted. Walk around history in kilometers of an unspoiled white sand plunge in the crystal blue water teeming with marine life. Trekkers will love the trails with flora and fauna on the way up with scenic landscapes on top.

• What to do and expect: Beach, Lagoon, Diving, Trekking
• Entrance Fee: ₱25 per head

How to get there?

From Tacloban City, ride a van going to Maasin City and drop at the terminal. Fare is around ₱300, Travel time is 3 hours.

From the Maasin terminal, ride a multicab going to Padre Burgos and drop at the port. Fare is ₱40, Travel time is 30 minutes. Look for a boat that goes to Limasawa Island. Fare: ₱50. Travel time: 45 minutes. Passenger boats regularly depart from Padre Burgos port every 8AM to 1PM.

From island’s jetty, take a habal-habal to your accomodation. Fare is ₱15. (source)

4. Antonia Beach

Location: Isla de Gigantes, Carles, Iloilo

A perfect place for beach bumming or idle away time with a book while getting lots of UV rays. The sea has a rich marine biodiversity, corals are alive and massive – great for snorkeling. The cave at the beach offers wonderful rock formations and a panoramic view of Isla De Gigantes.

• What to do and expect: White beach, Diving, Island Hopping
• Entrance Fee: ₱50 per head

5. Capul Island

Location: Northern Samar

The summer never ends in this part of the globe. Feast your eyes on the breathtaking setting of lush meadows, luxuriant fauna, coves, and rock formations. Drink water from the natural spring. Travel back in time with visits to the church of Saint Ignatius Loyola and the lighthouse built during the Spanish era.

• What to do and expect: White beach, Coves, Rock Formations
• Entrance Fee: ₱50 per head

6. Higatangan Island

Location: Naval, Biliran, Leyte

Visitors who explore this offbeat destination will be amply rewarded. Discover immaculate beaches unharmed by human activities. See tall primeval coconut trees between rugged rock formations swaying to the ocean breeze.

• What to do and expect: White beach, Rock Formations
• Entrance Fee: ₱100 per head

7. Caluya Island

Location: Caluya, Antique

The place to go if you are one for surprising adventures. A boat ride makes your head turn in awe from wild and free dolphins or gentle, colossal whales. Fill your hungry tummy with the freshest catch from the sea. Trek the steep and rocky mountain trail get an eyeful of lush foliage and marvel at the rock creations. The astonishing scenic views from the highest peak is one for the books.

• What to do and expect: White beach, Dolphin Watching, Trekking
• Entrance Fee: None

8. Sambawan Island

Location: Biliran

An ideal place for nature lovers and vacationers. Relish the fabulous white sands and crystal water. Pieces of corals are splashed to the coastline by waves. Resources are unexploited keeping the place simple with a natural atmosphere.

• What to do and expect: White beach, Camping
• Entrance Fee: ₱100 per head

How to get there?

From Tacloban City (gateway to Biliran), ride a van going to Naval and drop at the Naval Market. Fare is around ₱130, Travel time is 2-3 hours.

From there, ride a multicab going to Kawayan Port. Fare is ₱40, travel time is 30 minutes. Look for a boat that goes to Sambawan Island. Fare is around ₱2,500 for day tour, and ₱3,000 for overnight. Travel time is 45 minutes. Passenger boats regularly depart every hour from 8AM to 1PM.

9. Salagdoong Beach

Location: Siquijor Island

Thrill seekers will love cliff jumping to the aquamarine water. Explore the deep and clear water with a luscious marine life corals make the seascape amazing. Drive through an amazing Molave Forest stop and take a short walk to enjoy the beauty.

• What to do and expect: Beach, Cliff diving, Diving
• Entrance Fee: ₱20 per head

10. White and Pink Beaches

Location: San Vicente, Northern Samar

White and pink beaches attract tourists. The sand’s pink color came from scraps of the dark red shells, hermit crabs, corals, and snails washed to shore by the undulating waves. The azure water and lush coconut trees make the atmosphere conducive to relaxation.

• What to do and expect: One-of-a-kind beach attraction, Diving
• Entrance Fee: ₱80 per head