With over 7000 islands and recognized as the country with the most coastline in the world, the Philippines is home to some of the most beautiful tropical landscapes and exciting culture unfolding right next to the ocean. Picture yourself standing on a pristine beach, the waves crashing at your feet, and the sun setting over the horizon. There is much more to the Philippines than the hustle and bustle of Maila. Choose to take the off-beaten path and discover all this country offers.
La Union
Seven hours up north from Manila, you'll find the small surf town of La Union. This surf spot is home to a few surf breaks filled with Filipinos and only a handful of international travellers. Known for its chill vibe, this place is preferred by local tourists. La Union is a pretty place, but its people make it an unforgettable place. The same people you see in the lineup while surfing are your local baristas, business owners, and known Filipino surfers. Their friendly and inviting attitude is a big part of why this town feels so authentically Filipino, and you'll find yourself mingling and taking part in their local fiestas with them.
Baler
On the West side of Luzon, the main island where Manila is located is a small surfer town called Baler. This coastal town is different from La Union because Baler is more jungly and quiet. You'll pass by the mountain range and find yourself in a more temperate rainforest than La Union, where the environment is more desert-like. Baler is the perfect place to enjoy a slow morning with rainfalls, followed by a surf when the clouds start to clear up and to finish the day alongside the Filipino locals enjoying a beer by the beach. The locals of Baler are chilled surfers who prefer to relax and stay focused in the surf, whereas in La Union, you will mingle at more Filipino parties.
Siargao Island
Only an hour away by airplane from Manila, Siargao is the most paradise-looking island. A somewhat small island with endless surf spots and towns, you will find a magical place you might never leave. The most famous village is General Luna, hosting you with many delicious places to eat, options to sleep at, and exciting waves to which you will have to take a boat. The Northern part of Siargao is dotted by small towns all over the coast. Here you can find the true meaning of 'island life'. Enjoy the quietness of these places: fresh coconuts, empty surf beaches, caves and waterfalls. Here, the locals feel like family, especially when you engage in their most famous sport: basketball.
All these three places are hidden gems on the Filipino map unless you are an avid surfer who has heard of them in surf magazines. The Filipino culture is vibrant and friendly by nature, but when you explore the coastal parts filled with surf, you will encounter happy and joyful people ready to share the beauty of their country.
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