With more than 7100 islands, the Philippines is a haven for foreign and local tourists whose idea of a great vacation involves sunbathing at the beach front, swimming, and exploring the waters. The country is blessed to have a lot of beaches that are highly commercialized, while some are yet to be discovered by tourists.

Visit any province in the country by plane, car or ferry and there is surely a great beach that you can go to. Summer is still the high season, but if you want to relax in a beach that is less crowded and at a less expensive price, schedule your trip before or after the summer season.

There are many beach destinations to choose from. These are some of the well-known locations which are perfect for tourists:

• Boracay

• Batangas

• Palawan

• Pagudpud in Ilocos Norte

• Carabao Island in Romblon

• Puerto Galera in Mindoro

• Mactan Island and Malapascua Island in Cebu

• Camiguin

• Davao

• Siargao in Surigao del Norte

• Panglao in Bohol

Aside from lying lazily on the beach and enjoying your refreshing drink, you can try numerous water sports and activities that will add more excitement to your trip. This list, though not comprehensive, will give you an idea on the water activities that you can do in the Philippines:

• Wakeboarding, waterskating, and waterskiing – Camsur Watersports Complex in Camarines Sur

• Wakeboarding – Calatagan in Batangas

• Sailing, boating - Puerto Galera in Oriental Mindoro, Batangas, Boracay, IloIlo

• Scuba diving, snorkeling – Tubbataha Reef in Palawan, Anilao in Batangas, Apo Reef Natural Park in Occidental Mindoro, Bohol

• Surfing – Quezon, La Union, Siargao in Surigao del Norte

• White water rafting – Cagayan de Oro

• Kite surfing, parasailing – Boracay

• Canoeing – Pagsanjan in Laguna

The Philippines offers a long list of breathtaking beach destinations and water sports that will keep you asking for more. There are endless possibilities both for adventure seekers and those who enjoy a laid-back environment. When you visit the Philippines, make sure to create wonderful memories in its amazing waters. Take the plunge and have fun!