Underrated Travel Destinations in the Philippines Worth Visiting

The Philippines is full of wonder. From turquoise seas that stretch beyond your gaze to misty mountains where time seems to slow, there are hidden corners of the archipelago just waiting for the curious traveller to discover.

If you’re looking to satisfy your wanderlust and hunting for the best value, your card may just hold the key. Credit card travel perks, such as earning miles or using a promo code for a hotel booking, can help you explore top and lesser-known travel destinations in the Philippines that are on your bucket list, all without overspending.

Ready to plan your perfect escape? We've curated a list of the country's best destinations, featuring both the popular hotspots and the hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

1. Batanes

Tucked away in the far north of Luzon, Batanes is a place that feels more like Ireland’s rolling green hills or New Zealand’s wild coast. Traditional stone houses, the sweeping headlands, and the wind-brushed grasses give it a timeless feel.

As you watch the sunset from a basalt cliff, hear the soft roar of the sea, and soak in the vastness of the space, everything else feels irrelevant in that moment.

While this place is a popular travel destination in the Philippines, not many Filipinos get the chance to visit because of expensive airfare. A miles credit card for domestic flights helps you earn points with every peso spent, which can be converted to airline miles and redeemed to afford airfare to Batanes and make your flight cheaper or free.

2. Siquijor

When you think of the best travel destinations in the Philippines, beaches first come to mind. Our country is known for its pristine beaches, but Siquijor remains an underrated gem. It is quieter than most famous beach islands, as you’ll find lush jungles, hidden waterfalls like Cambugahay, and uncrowded beaches that invite you to unwind.

Because it’s not overcrowded, you can often find hotel deals and off-peak promos easily. If you’re booking with the best hotel rewards credit card, you can get special partner hotel discounts and upgrade your stay without paying top-tier rates.

3. Romblon

Romblon is often overlooked, despite its dramatic hills (including the jagged peak of Mt. Guiting-Guiting) and crystal-clear waters. If you’re willing to travel off the beaten path, this destination is definitely worth exploring.

Fewer crowds often mean better pricing, so check out travel promos offered through your bank or card to snag a hotel stay near the beach at a fraction of the price. Domestic flights to lesser-served airports are often cheaper, too, so you can use your miles to get the best rates.

4. Masbate

Masbate is still under the radar for many travellers—but it deserves more attention. Wide-open spaces, white-sand beaches, marine sanctuaries like Buntod Reef, and fewer international tourists make it one of the most underrated travel spots in the Philippines.

The province is ideal for value-conscious travellers. Because it’s less developed for high-volume tourism, resorts or guesthouses often offer discounts. Combine that with miles, and you can enjoy a premium experience while making a smart financial move.

5. Catanduanes

Nestled in the Bicol region, Catanduanes offers breathtaking natural beauty. From the stunning grassy hills and ocean views at Binurong Point to the excellent surfing waves of Puraran Beach, the island offers an unspoiled paradise for adventurers and beach lovers alike.

Its remote nature means fewer visitors and lower competition for rooms. You can also lock in great value stays by using hotel partner discounts or a trip promo code.

6. Antique

Another hidden gem on our list of travel destinations is Antique. Known as the province where the mountains meet the sea, it boasts pristine white sand beaches, scenic islands, crystal-clear rivers, and lush mountains. 

Highlights include the unique Kawa Hot Baths, the clear Bugang River—one of the cleanest rivers in the country—and historic sites like the nearly 400-year-old Anini-y Church.

7. Camiguin

Camiguin is known as the “Island Born of Fire” as it’s dotted with volcanoes, waterfalls, and hot springs. You can explore the sunken cemetery, trek Mt. Hibok-Hibok, or relax on White Island—an uninhabited sandbar just off the coast. The charm of Camiguin lies in its simplicity and the way it blends adventure with serenity.

Because it’s a small island, you’ll find value-for-money accommodations and local tours that cost a fraction of what you’d pay in busier destinations. You can also redeem miles for a flight to Cagayan de Oro, the nearest gateway. From there, you can take a scenic ferry ride to the island.

8. Ilig-Iligan Beach, Boracay

Boracay is the top contender for the top travel destination in the Philippines, but beyond the White Beach’s lively scene, there’s Ilig-Iligan Beach on the island’s northeastern tip. It’s a quiet stretch of sand where you can enjoy turquoise waters, hidden coves, and limestone cliffs without the crowds. 

The area feels worlds away from the more commercial parts of the island. Book a Boracay hotel promo at a high-end resort, then escape the hustle and bustle of the main island by visiting Ilig-Iligan.

These hidden gems show that you don’t have to go for the same-old tourist hotspots to have a memorable getaway. Consider destinations such as Batanes, Siquijor, Romblon, Masbate, Catanduanes, Antique, Camiguin, and Ilig-Iligan Beach. These places may not yet be on everyone’s radar, but they’re ready for you.

Bank travel perks make the best travel destinations and experiences accessible to financially savvy Filipinos. Use your credit card points to earn miles or turn everyday spending into vacation possibilities. Watch out for partner hotel discounts or special travel promos to get high-end accommodation without the hefty price tag.

Your next adventure is just around the corner. Take advantage of your travel perks now.