The Maldives as seen all over the internet and it is even a favorite vacation destination among the world’s top celebrities in the Maldives like the Kardashians, Lionel Messi, Justin Bieber, and a whole bunch more! It becomes easier to understand why this gorgeous island is worth a visit. It is endowed with pristine beaches, thriving marine life, and amazingly clear waters. But you know where else you can enjoy those things? In the Philippines, of course! And enjoy these Instagram worthy destinations in the Philippines.
No need to spend a huge amount of money to experience the same vibe that resorts in Maldives offer. Just visit any of the resorts on this list, and you’ll surely have an equally magical vacation and find Maldives of the Philippines in these Philippines resorts and islands.
Huma Island Resort and Spa
Huma Island Resort and Spa is nestled in a private island between Palawan and Mindoro. And since it’s on a remote private island, you can expect the right dose of serenity and seclusion for a relaxing stay.
Everything about this place is luxurious. From the well-appointed villas to the customer service and stunning view. Most of the villas are built on stilts, over the sparkling waters. And the best part? The villas have outdoor hot tubs where you can chill and enjoy the panoramic sea views!
Sunlight Eco Tourism Island Resort
Sunlight Eco Tourism Island Resort is known for their Sirakan Villa. It has an indoor jacuzzi, an extensive balcony with loungers, and, the best of them all, a glass-bottom floor. It’s such a fun and unique way to enjoy the teeming marine life!
But besides the luxurious Sirakan Villa, they also offer other accommodations that are also over the waters. All of them have spectacular views, but you have the option to choose if you want a villa that’s either facing the sunset or the sunrise.
The beaches on the island are just as amazing as the villa. Yup, there are two of them! Beach 1 is where you can witness the beautiful sunrise. Meanwhile, Beach 2 is the place to be if you want to watch the sunset.
Miniloc Island Resort
Miniloc Island is a rustic resort that will make you feel as if you’re in a Filipino coastal village. The resort is a gateway to Bacuit Bay’s popular attractions, such as Snake Island and Big and Small Lagoon.
They have water cottages like those in Maldives. But at Miniloc Island Resort, they’ve highlighted the Filipino native designs all over the place. And we actually love it because it makes the resort absolutely cozy and gorgeous!
The towering limestone karsts and the clear waters make the place so magical. And, depending on the cottage you choose, you get to wake up to the view of these natural wonders.
Apulit Island
Apulit Island is another resort managed by El Nido Resorts. It’s the same company behind Miniloc Island Resort and Lagen Island.
You can also expect cottages over the waters, and a different view of the beautiful natural landscape of Taytay, Palawan.
It’s an Eco-Adventure resort, which offers exciting and exhilarating activities for the thrill-seeker. You can climb and rappel down the 60-meter limestone cliff, go spelunking in the 5 different caves in the island, or go diving among the plethora of marine creatures.
Lagen Island
Lagen Island is the Eco-Sanctuary resort of El Nido Resorts. And looking at this place, it’s bound to be your own little sanctuary in Palawan!
But more than that, Lagen Island is a sanctuary for a diverse variety of birds and mammals. The best way to explore the island is by hiking through the forest trail until you see one of the coves on the other side of the island.
The resort even has Forest Rooms for those who’d like to be one with nature. But if you really want that Maldives of the Philippines vibe, the Water Cottages are your best bet.
Cauayan Island Resort
Cauayan Island Resort in El Nido is a tropical paradise you’ll never find anywhere else. You’ll be mesmerized by the dramatic enormous limestone cliffs, unbelievable lagoons, and pristine beaches.
The place has seven different villas to choose from. All offer different stunning views of the island. For that truly Maldives-esque vibe, go for the Lagoon Villa, Water Villa, or Sunrise Villa.
Find tranquillity at the Lagoon Villa, where you can enjoy the view of the man-made lagoon and waterfalls. But if you want to wake up to the cool ocean breeze and fall asleep to the sound of the waves, get yourself a Water Villa or Sunrise Villa for your stay.
Pearl Farm Beach Resort
Pearl Farm Beach Resort is one of the most popular destinations in Davao for a good reason. The beach resort is located in Samal Island, with an idyllic view of the Davao Gulf.
The cottages built over waters give you Maldives of the Philippines vibes you’re looking for, but it also offers a glimpse of local culture. The room is decked with native decors, Mindanaoan crafts, and Muslim-inspired details.
Although there are no cultural or historical attractions on the island, Pearl Farm Beach Resort has several facilities for guests.
They have a private beach, an infinity pool with a beautiful view of Mount Apo, a sports centre with billiards and darts, and a kids club with toys and activities for the tots.
But the best thing to do while at Pearl Farm Beach Resort is to do the Taklobo and Corals Tours. You’ll snorkel in the Marine Sanctuary, where you’ll see giant clams and the beautiful coral gardens.
Club Tara Resort
Club Tara Resort opened in 2011 at Bucas Grande Island. It’s one of the pioneer resorts that started the stilt type of cottages over water. It may have opened over a decade ago, but it’s still one of the most beloved hotels for a Maldives-like experience.
The jacuzzi water cottage offers an indulgent and relaxing ambiance. Beyond the window, you’ll see the ocean and islets. And the best part? You can still enjoy the same picturesque view as you chill in the jacuzzi!
The best way to enjoy the turquoise waters and lush greens is by trying the resort’s outdoor activities. Go kayaking, pedal boating, snorkeling, trekking, or chilling at the beach.
Tugawe Cove Resort
Tugawe Cove Resort is one of the most beautiful resorts in Camarines Sur. Their rooms and cabanas are either on the hillside, hilltop, or lakeside.
Staying at the Lakeside Cabana lets you wake up to the calming view of the waters, sparkling underneath the rays of the sun. They’re all well-appointed and spacious. However, unlike other resorts, Lakeside Cabanas at Tugawe Cove Resort do not have hot tubs or jacuzzis.
But that shouldn’t be a huge issue because the resort has a lot of activities for guests. One of the most enchanting experiences you could ever have is going Bioluminescent Plankton Watching, where you wade in the glowing waters as the stars twinkle in the sky.
Stilts Calatagan Beach Resort
No need to fly halfway across the globe just to experience the Maldives of the Philippines. Because all you need is a 3-hour trip from Manila to Stilts Calatagan Beach Resort to feel like you’re in one of the world’s most sought-after destinations.
The floating villas are the most iconic accommodation at Stilts Calatagan Beach Resort. The villas had details reminiscent of traditional Filipino homes, while the interiors are predominantly white. So they really felt cozy at homey to the guests.
Stilts Calatagan Beach Resort has three cream-side beaches, complete with loungers and cabanas available for day-tour guests as well. And since the place is a popular destination for day-tours, there are times that the beaches could get a little crowded.
Kamana Sanctuary Resort and Spa
Kamana Sanctuary is a laid-back resort in Subic, which is 2 and a half hours from Manila.
Their most gorgeous accommodation is, of course, the casitas perched over the waters. The beds are facing the veranda, so you get to enjoy the view of the sea as you relax in bed.
And what’s more amazing is that you get an unobstructed view of the sun setting behind the mountains!
The resort has the typical facilities you’d expect in beach resorts. They have a beach, an infinity pool, and a playground. Meanwhile, there are other activities available as well, such as kayaking, snorkeling, frisbee, and board games.
After learning about the different Maldives of the Philippines resorts that you can visit for your next vacation, have a restful break, and snap hundreds of IG-worthy photos in these gorgeous spots!
Want to learn more and discover destinations worth visiting? Check out this Banaue Rice Terraces Guide 2022 or perhaps visit another exotic paradise island, Bantayan Island 2022