With the pandemic putting a halt to all our travel plan, even gallivanting through neighbouring cities and regions isn’t something we can do right now. So while we’re left daydreaming about our next trip, here are 5 hidden gem in The Philippines to consider. If anything, this time in quarantine has made us realise how little of the country we’ve seen, so if you haven’t seen even one of these destinations, make sure to keep it in mind for when we’re able to travel again!

1. Tinipak River (Tanay, Rizal)

Tinipak River is a hidden paradise situated in Brgy. Daraitan in Tanay, Rizal, was awarded as the cleanest inland body of water in the region. Reaching this destination requires patience and endurance in trekking giant trails of rock, making Tinipak River a perfect getaway for those who love outdoor adventure – Trust us, it’s worth it! From giant boulders to tranquil and cool river water, this place has everything you need to enjoy an adrenaline-filled weekend.

2. Jomalig Island (Quezon Province)

Jomalig is a unpopular island municipality in Quezon Province. It boasts of gold and white beaches, the reason why many travellers call it a desert paradise in the middle of the ocean. Feast your eyes on its two breathtaking beaches: The Kanaway Beach on the east side facing the Pacific Ocean, and the Salibungot Beach on the west facing Lamon Bay. Enjoy a gastronomic adventure by savouring some of the exotic seafood the island offers: Lobster, shrimps, crab, and the fish called surahan, considered by people in Polillo Islands as the world’s most delightful!

3. Seco Island (Antique)

The Seco Island is a serene and uninhabited island located nearby west of Panay. It’s basically an island made of white sand stretching 1.5 kilometres in the middle of the ocean. The island paradise was named after the Kinaray-a word for “elbow” due to its shape. Named as one of the best kiteboarding spots in the Philippines, Seco Island is also the ideal place for those into camping and even as simple as soul-searching.

4. Corcuera Island (Romblon)

Corcuera is a virgin island municipality in Romblon and home to white sand beaches that could rival Boracay’s. Locals still refer to it as Simara, the island’s old name when it was still part of Banton town. It was later renamed in 1931 to honor Spanish Governor General Hurtado de Corcuera who ruled the country from 1635 to 1644. Travellers will absolutely enjoy the seashores in barangays Poblacion, Ambulung, Tacasan, Colong-Colong, Mangansag and Alegria. Also, you will have the opportunity to visit other tourist attractions such as caves filled with stunning stalagmites and stalactites.

5. Quezon Beach (Patikul, Sulu)

Quezon Beach situated in Patikul, Sulu is a non-commercialized tourist destination known for its fine sand and crystal-clear waters. It is considered as one of the best beaches in the country – some even say its better than the world-renowned ‘Boracay’.