Philippine Destinations For That Valentine’s Day Getaway

Valentine’s Day offers the perfect opportunity for couples to get away from their lives a bit and be alone with each other. But then that opens up the question, be alone together… where? Well, one way to solve this conundrum is to take an online test, such as the Adventure Personality Quiz, that can tell you what destinations best suit your kind of personality. But these kinds of tests are tailored for individual tastes, and you’re not thinking as an individual for Valentine’s Day. You’re thinking as a couple. And that’s exactly what this list is for: to give you and your partner a list of ten equally amazing options for the most romantic day of the year. If you’re looking for a Valentine’s Day getaway in the Philippines, you’ve come to the right place.

1. Bantayan Island, Cebu

First on the list? Gorgeous Bantayan Island, for low-key lovers on a budget. If you’re reluctant to shell out big bucks for fancy resorts, the beaches here have cheap entrance fees while still perfectly hitting those romantic notes. And if you really want to get creative? (And seeing that it’s Valentine’s Day, of course you do.) Bring a tent out to the white sands, cuddle with your partner, watch the sunset, and then point out the stars together. How much more romantic can you get?

2. Eden Nature Park, Davao City

Looking for a little more adventure this Valentine’s Day? Then try out Eden Nature Park in Davao, a resort that perfectly combines nature and civilization. Hike together up the mountains and breathe that crisp air. Stroll hand-in-hand through the Deer Park or Birdwalk, getting to know the animals. Or soar through the skies on the Skyrider or Skycycle attractions. Eden Nature Park also offers wedding and honeymoon packages for couples looking to commune with nature.

3. Tagaytay

Speaking of nature, couples can also add Tagaytay to their list of possible Valentine’s Day destinations. Hike up to the crater of Taal Volcano and dine in one of the restaurants dotting the ridge. Take a boat ride out onto the lake. Or ride on horseback to the volcano itself. Also, another great thing about Tagaytay is that it can also double as a fun family outing. Couples can bring their kids to Sky Ranch and ride the Sky Eye, the tallest Ferris wheel in the Philippines. Don’t have kids? No problem! Ride the Sky Eye together, cuddle up, and enjoy a unique view of the sunset.

4. Panglao Island, Bohol

Beach lovers rejoice! Panglao Island offers several great choices, including the popular Alona Beach and the quieter Dumaluan Beach. Now, the Philippines definitely doesn’t lack in fun beach destinations, each offering their own charms. The white sands of Panglao might draw in couples reluctant to deal with the crowds of more famous beaches like Boracay. Panglao also offers the pick of exciting activities like jet skiing, wakeboarding, surfing, and parasailing!

5. Batanes

Evergreen Batanes rightfully earns its nickname with vast rolling green hills, rugged cliffs, and a gorgeous coastline. If you and your partner are big nature-lovers, then Batanes should definitely be on your go-to list. Largely untouched by modernization, the island offers a dream escape for couples on Valentine’s Day. Explore cave systems, picnic on the grasslands, or swim in the clear waters. Get in touch with nature and each other.

6. Vigan City

Looking for a change of pace? Interested in exploring Philippine history? Then travel back in time together to the cobblestone streets of Vigan City. The colonial-style houses, kalesa rides, antique stalls, and friendly locals create a wonderfully nostalgic atmosphere. And the view at night? When the streetlights wash Vigan in gold light, few places can create such a romantic sight.

7. Boracay

A place on almost everyone’s bucket list, so why not visit it together? Boasting a gorgeous white sand beach, Boracay promises long intimate walks, soothing massages, and indulgent accommodations. Travel + Leisure Magazine even named it as one of the best islands of 2017, giving you a good idea of how perfect it is as a Valentine’s Day getaway. Adventure couples might also want to visit Boracay’s popular Ariel’s Point, which offers cliff diving, kayaking, and other fun water sports.

8. El Nido, Palawan

Want a different shot at paradise? More intimate than Boracay, El Nido contains several hidden coves and lagoons. It’s the perfect place for couples wanting to combine beach activities with a more private setting. Be sure to plan your visit carefully though! According to GMA News, Survivor South Africa will be filming in El Nido, restricting access in some areas. But don’t worry, El Nido has more than enough to offer for everyone.

9. Baguio City

What list of romantic getaways can be considered complete without throwing Baguio City into the mix? The Philippines’ Summer Capital offers a little something for everyone. Nature-loving couples can check out Camp John Hay for a picnic, or stroll through Burnham Park. Food lovers can sample the delicious food and gorgeous views of restaurants such as Cafe in the Sky. And art enthusiasts should definitely visit the beautiful artworks at the BenCab Museum, housing the collection of National Artist Ben Cabrera.

10. Siquijor Island

Last but not least on our list of Valentine’s Day getaways: the Island of Fire, Siquijor. Here’s a destination for couples wanting a place somewhere off the beaten path. The Spanish called Siquijor the Island of Fire because of how it looked at night when the fireflies lit it aglow. Mysterious and magical, Siquijor offers grand waterfalls, fairytale beaches, and stunning sunsets. But don’t just take our word for it. Look at the stunning view below taken by photographer James Connolly.