21 Best Family-Friendly Travel Destinations in the Philippines

21. Batangas

Situated just a couple of hours away from Manila is the province of Batangas. It’s the best quick beach getaway for you and the family if you're looking for beach resorts near Manila. Take your pick from high-end Batangas resorts as well as budget-friendly accommodations if you're looking for the cheapest travel destination in the Philippines.

Many of the Batangas resorts, from Batangas resorts with pool to Batangas pet-friendly resorts, offer a variety of fun Batangas tours, from water activities like snorkeling, kayaking, to island tours, and multiple inflatable water parks! You can also find a number of spa treatments in resorts like The Farm at San Benito if you just want quiet time to relax. 

• Read our article on the best Batangas resorts
• Check out our The Farm at San Benito promos 

Don’t forget to get a taste of Batangas local food like lomi, goto, and the world-famous kapeng barako to complete your Batangas vacation package beach trip. 

20. Tagaytay

Just a stone's throw away from Manila is the verdant city of Tagaytay. Treat your family to the gentle cool air of this city and marvel at the stunning view of Taal Lake and Taal Volcano. 

• Check out our list of the best Tagaytay City hotels including Tagaytay hotels with a view
• Browse our Tagaytay staycation promos
• Book a Tagaytay Taal Lake boat ride

Tagaytay packs a lot of activities and places that are great for the whole family. You can go visit several well-known landmarks in Tagaytay like the Picnic Grove, Sky Ranch, and People's Park or go to the country’s only puzzle museum with the kids. All these activities and attractions in Tagaytay tours, in the heart of Tagaytay. 

Dine with a view along its many roadside Tagaytay cafes and Tagaytay restaurants that offer well-loved dishes and delicacies like bulalo and fried tawilis.

These restaurants are super easy to access since most are found along the main road, have ample parking, and offer different transportation options to get around the city. So for that quick getaway from the heat of the metro, take the family and try excursions in Tagaytay. Book Tagaytay hotels for your staycation now!

19. Rizal

Photo by the Philippine Department of Tourism

Roughly a two-hour drive east of Manila is the quaint province of Rizal, the art capital of the Philippines and known for Rizal hiking tours. Take the family on an art appreciation trip along the streets of Angono or spend a quiet afternoon inside the serene space of Pinto Art Gallery, one of the top Rizal tourist spots. 

• Read our article on the best Antipolo Rizal hotels and resorts

Aside from camping in Rizal, you can also find several spas and resorts in Antipolo, Rizal with a stunning view of the Sierra Madre. There’s Boso-Boso Highlands Resort that’s great for the family with its many amenities, including a playground in the pool.

Loreland Farm Resort is also a great place for the family, with many pools and slides that the kids can enjoy. There’s also a treat for the adults as the resort houses Luljetta’s Hanging Garden Spa, a mountain-side spa that offers a stunning view of the Sierra Madre and Manila skyline and wellness tours.

A lot of Rizal restaurants and Antipolo Rizal cafes also showcase art and food only found in Rizal. For a unique dining experience, head out to Wawa Dam and have a picnic with the family on floating cottages. Swimming is allowed there too! 

 18. Bohol

A little over an hour via plane is one of the top Visayas tourist spots, the island province of Bohol. Filled with rich history, picturesque landscapes, and home to diverse wildlife, Bohol has no shortage of fun activities you and your family can enjoy.

There are many Bohol tours to choose from for your family vacation including Bohol island hopping tour, Bohol Balicasag Island tour, Panglao Island tour, Chocolate Hills tours, Bohol firefly watching tour and Bohol Bee Farm tour. For a hassle-free trip, check out our Bohol tour packages that include flights, accommodation, transportation, and tours. 

• Read our article on the best resorts in Bohol for your vacation
• Find the best-value Bohol hotel rates
• Check out the tourist spots in Bohol that you can explore

The Bohol Countryside tour will bring you around natural and cultural spots in Bohol. You'll get to see the Chocolate Hills, one of the natural wonders of the world. The tour will also bring you around historical sites in the province.

You and the family shouldn't let pass the Loboc Ecotourism Adventure Park package where you and the gang can hop on Loboc River Cruise tours and enjoy a buffet of local food fair while being treated with a one-of-a-kind view of the river.

You can also visit the tarsiers, small nocturnal beings endemic to this region of the Philippines. Just be mindful of the dos and don’ts since they are sensitive creatures.

There are many Bohol resorts options perfect for a family getaway that you can choose from including Mithi Resort and Spa, Amorita Resort, Bohol Beach Club Resort, Modala Beach Resort, Bluewater Panglao, Bellevue Resort, and other Bohol beachfront resorts.

17. Baguio 

Beat the heat of the Metro and drive a few hours up north to the city of pines, Baguio. There are several bus lines with multiple trips a day that you can hop on for a hassle-free trip to Baguio. There are plenty of Baguio hotels to book that will fit any budget. Check out our Baguio hotel promo package including The Manor Baguio promo to get the best Baguio hotel rates. 

In the city proper alone, there are already a handful of family-friendly places you should see and experience Baguio activities like the classic Burnham Park and Mines View Park. If you enjoy art, check out the BenCab Museum just outside the city center. Read our article on fun things to do in Baguio if you're looking for new unique experiences. 

Kids and kids at heart will have a magical time when you come during the Christmas season and experience Baguio's annual Christmas Village at Camp John Hay where The Manor Baguio Hotel is also located. Cap the night off after your Baguio tours with a steaming hot cup of pure Chocolate de Batirol or find one-of-a-kind treasures at Baguio’s night market nearby Baguio restaurants. 

16. Subic 

Photo by The Inflatable Island

Found in the heart of Olongapo City, Subic is just a few hours’ drive away from Manila. It packs a lot of activities that are great for the whole family. Let the kids and the kid in you have some fun under the sun in Subic’s Inflatable Island. Or get to know wildlife at the Zoobic Safari. Nearby is the Funtastic Park where kids and kids at heart get a chance to play to their heart’s content. 

• Get tickets to Ocean Adventure Subic
• Secure passes to Adventure Beach Waterpark

Head on over to the Subic Bay Yacht Club for high-end accommodation and family-friendly activities. For relaxed activities for the whole family, visit Magaul Bird Park for a fun and educational day with the children. As for where to stay, there are plenty of hotels in Subic you can choose from.

15. Boracay 

We all know it, great things come in small packages — that’s what Boracay is. This small beautiful island home to one of the best white sand beaches in the Philippines is accessible an hour via plane with two nearby airports, Boracay Caticlan Airport and Kalibo Airport.

There are several transportation options from there to the island readily available. You can also take a longer route via ferry, and it’s as hassle-free since there are multiple schedules to Caticlan. All the bookings and Boracay transfers are doable online to save you the trouble.

Named as one of the best beaches in the world and one of the best beaches in the Philippines, this small island has a lot to offer: from Boracay tours like water activities that include Boracay island hopping tours, parasailing, snorkeling in Boracay, and Boracay helmet diving; a slew of Boracay restaurants that line its shores; and a captivating night scene at Boracay bars to boot.

For Boracay hotel booking options, there are a variety of Boracay hotels and resorts including hotels in Boracay for family all throughout stations 1, 2, and 3. Experience Boracay’s white sands and turquoise waters with the family. Check out our Shangri-La Boracay promo, Discovery Shores Boracay promo, Crimson Boracay promo, Movenpick Boracay promo, and Boracay Newcoast hotel special rates. 

14. Cebu

Cebu might be the oldest city in the Philippines, but the Cebu tourist spots and activities that you can explore in Cebu tour packages will never grow old.

Cebu is accessible via plane with multiple daily Cebu flights from Manila. With just over an hour in the sky, you’ll arrive at Mactan-Cebu International Airport. You can also reach Cebu via ferry from the port of Manila, with trips available six times a week. A day at the sea with comfortable onboard accommodation and amenities for the family is definitely one for the books.

• Check out our list of the best Cebu hotels and resorts and our article on the most beautiful beach resorts in the Philippines

Have a taste of the food offerings along Tabo sa Banay in downtown Cebu and feast on local delicacies like balbacua and SuTuKil, and don’t miss their world-famous lechon. You'l find many Cebu restaurants offering Cebu lechon near some of the best Cebu hotels for booking. 

This province has a wide array of Cebu tours and activities perfect for the family, from educational Cebu City tours, a calm stroll among the beautiful flowers at the Terrazas de Flores to an exhilarating walk on the edge of a high-rise building brought by Crown Regency Sky Walk Extreme experience. Remember to stop by for more goodies at Taboan public market before heading home. 

If you're traveling with young adults who are looking for more thrilling Cebu experiences, you can include swimming with turtles in Moalboal Cebu, Moalboal island hopping, and Kawasan Falls canyoneering in your Cebu itinerary. 

13. Puerto Princesa 

Palawan in itself is a great travel destination for anyone, but within it is another world’s best lister, Puerto Princesa. It is world-renowned for the Puerto Princesa Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

With preservation in mind, Puerto Princesa Underground River tour visitors are strictly limited so it’s best to check and book necessities early for your trip. You can reach Puerto Princesa from major airports via Puerto Princesa flights or by ferry via Coron. 

• Read our article on the best Puerto Princesa hotels and resorts
• Check our list of the best resorts in Coron

Your family can make the most of your visit by booking Palawan resorts packages that includes the Underground River tour, hotel transfers, food, and guide.

You and your kids will be treated with stunning views of these natural wonders. Aside from its stunning beaches, Puerto Princesa tours also have stops at Palawan beaches, Palawan Wildlife Rescue Center, Mitra’s Ranch, and many more. 

12. Iloilo

Flights to Iloilo's Iloilo International Airport are just over an hour away from major airports in Manila. Upon landing, there are several Iloilo transfers that will conveniently take you to the city center. Iloilo is packed with fun things to do and interesting attractions that you can explore in Iloilo tour packages.

You can go visit the beautifully designed Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art which has a fine collection of valuable works of art from local and foreign artists.

An Iloilo food tour is a must when you're in this Visayan province. Head on to the city’s La Paz market and treat yourself to the best and original La Paz Bachoy noodles at Netong’s or sip hot coffee at the well-known Madge Cafe.

The city is already packed with attractions, but the family shouldn’t miss some of the best Iloilo tours. Head north of Iloilo to go island hopping in Islas de Gigantes or ride a ferry to the neighboring island province for Guimaras tours if you want a taste of the sweetest mango in the world.

11. Vigan 

Photo by the Philippine Department of Tourism

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage City, this entrancing old town is definitely a must-visit for the family. You can reach Vigan through an 8-10 hour drive either by car or comfortable sleeper bus that has regular trips every day. Alternatively, you can book a flight to Laoag and take a shorter, two-hour bus ride to Vigan. 

Go on Calle Crisologo tours, probably the most recognizable street in the country, and let it captivate you with its charm any time of the day. Embrace the history of the town through city tours; find antiques, get to know the Abel weavers, or visit Pagburnayan and try your hand at pottery.

• Check out our list of the best Vigan hotels

Tourists in the Philippines with kids are encouraged by the locals to have a hand at it too and let them experience an age-old, undying craft. What’s not optional is for you to get your hands on local eats. Longganisa, empanada, and bagnet are just some of the mouth-watering goodness you can get when doing Vigan tours. 

10. Misamis Occidental

The lush forests of Misamis Occidental are a significant producer of oxygen for the country. Only an hour-long travel via plane and you’ll find yourself in Labo airport, Ozamiz City. The airport is just a few minutes away from the market and transport terminals.

Mt. Malindang Range Natural Park, a declared ASEAN Heritage Park, makes for a great family vacation idea in the Philippines that instill the virtue of preservation among children. Relax and reflect with the family in the presence of MisOcc's sacred Lake Duminagat.

Head on to Hoyohoy Highland Park and embark on a thrilling adventure that includes zip lines, horseback, and ATVs. They also have a hotel with stunning views of MisOcc's lush greens. 

9. Laguna 

Whether you’re looking to enjoy natural wonders, or wanting to visit historical landmarks with the family, Laguna tourist spots have no shortage of both. You can reach the town a couple of hours on the road from Manila.

The iconic Pagsanjan Falls is the quintessential Laguna tours destination to visit when you’re in the province. Visit another well-known waterfall, Majayjay, or bathe and rejuvenate in the cold waters of Bato Springs. 

• Read our article on the best Laguna resorts including Laguna hot springs
• Book an Enchanted Kingdom ride all you can day pass

Teach the young ones what enjoyment meant back when smartphones weren’t a thing by visiting Sta. Elena Farm, or head on and introduce them to the surviving artistry that is wood carving in Paete. Visit the Rizal Shrine and sneak in a quick history lesson while on vacation. 

8. Pampanga

Looking for a place where kids (and adults) can be just kids? Then Pampanga is the place to be. Also just a few hours’ drive away from Manila and you'll get to enjoy the different activities and facilities with the family in Pampanga’s one-of-a-kind outdoor attraction, SandBox.

• Check out our list of the best Pampanga hotels and resorts

It has a variety of activities you can do like kart racing, aerial walk, archery, and many more. Once you’re done, cool down in the province’s newest and biggest waterpark, Aqua Planet. 

If those types of adventures aren’t your thing, then let Pampanga treat you to Kapampangan staples like sisig, morcon, and kamaru at the best Pampanga restaurants.

Before you head home, stop by the beloved Atching Lilian and get your hands on San Nicolas Cookies made by the culinary icon. Check other tourist attractions in Pampanga that might also interest you.

7. Bacolod 

Take a break with the family and head on to the city of smiles, Bacolod. The province is accessible via plane in only over an hour through major airports. 

One of the most popular tourist spots in Bacolod is The Ruins, a perfect photo-op any time of the day. You can also go on a city walking tour that will take you through the town’s popular stops.  

• Read our article on the best Bacolod City hotels

Less than an hour away from Bacolod proper is another popular tourist go-to in Bacolod tours, which is Mambukal Resort. Within the resort, you can take a pick at various activities that the whole family will definitely enjoy. 

6. La Union

The mere mention of Elyu, and you hear the waves of the country’s surfing capital calling you. La Union can easily be reached by boarding direct buses from Manila to La Union or by driving a private car.

Take the family on a fun day at the beach and enjoy different La Union tours and water activities like surfing, snorkeling, or just relaxing or sunbathing to your heart’s content. There are plenty of La Union resorts that you can choose from. 

La Union also offers non-beach-related attractions like Gapuz Grapes where you can pick grapes and taste wine at an affordable price.

There are also several underrated La Union tourist spots like Botanical Garden, Pagoda Hill, and Pindangan Ruins. Experience Elyu’s nightlife and visit San Fernando’s night market lined with local delicacies. 

5. Davao

Davao is one of the highly urbanized cities in Mindanao, easily accessible via plane with daily flights from Manila. Home to the Philippine Eagle and thousands of crocodiles, you and your family can marvel at these wondrous creatures at the Philippine Eagle Center & Malagos Garden Resort and The Crocodile Park, respectively.

• Read our article on the best Davao City hotels for your Davao hotel booking

Both places offer educational and interactive tours as well as cultural shows that the whole family will enjoy. The city also prides itself on all the natural beauty that surrounds it. In Samal Island, you can also experience one of the best island hopping in the Philippines. From its serene beaches to majestic mountains, Davao tours deserve its recognition as it has something for everyone. 

4. Bataan

Easily reach Bataan in under an hour via Ferry from the Esplanade Seaside Terminal in Pasay or spend a couple of hours on the road via bus or private car. Bataan is teeming with locations that highlight the province's colorful contribution to Philippine history during World War 2.

• Read our article on the best resorts in Bataan
• Check out our list of Bataan tourist spots

For your Bataan vacation packages, take a history stroll at Mt. Samat National Shrine, or travel back in time and marvel at the architecture of Plaza Mayor de Ciudad and the popular Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar. 

Don't miss out on Bataan beaches and Bataan tours when you come to visit! If you're looking for something fancy, then Anvaya Cove is up your alley. If you’re looking for extreme adventure, there’s a diving cliff waiting for you at Five Fingers Cove.

3. Cagayan De Oro

When you need a break from the hustle of the city, Cagayan De Oro might be the spot for you. Just an hour away via plane with multiple flights a day to and from Manila, and you and your family can plunge in on different water activities and other fun Cagayan de Oro adventures found in and around the province. 

• Book a Cagayan de Oro airport transfer

Book a Seven Seas Waterpark Cagayan de Oro day pass with transfers and enjoy its many water activities, or face the rapids of the Cagayan River with your gang via a Cagayan de Oro whitewater rafting package. If you don't want water activities, then head on to Dahilayan Forest Park where they offer family-friendly activities and attractions or book a Cagayan de Oro city tour and see the city's top attractions. You may also go on a Cagayan De Oro Sinulom Falls & Bolao Cold Spring tour.

• Book a Dahilayan Forest Park package with a Del Monte pineapple plantation tour

There's also Mt. Kitanglad Agri-Eco Farm, a Bali-esque (and reminiscent of The Shire) attraction—a perfect photo op. 

2. Lanao Del Norte

Lanao Del Norte might not be your usual top-of-the-list places to visit, but give this province a chance and it will surprise you.

You can reach Lanao Del Norte via plane in just over an hour. In the city of Iligan alone, you can find several beautiful waterfalls including the majestic Ma. Cristina Falls. Tinago Falls also is worth mentioning, but be ready because it will make you work to see its beauty with a 300-step staircase to reach it. 

If you're looking for grub, Lanao Del Norte has no shortage of this either. It boasts of its fresh seafood, Cheding's peanuts, and the divisive fruit that is the Durian. 

1. Manila

And finally, Manila, the heart of the metro! Extremely near the Manila airport, surrounded by some of the best hotels in Manila and accommodations, Manila tourist spots all over, and food offerings from Filipino restaurants in Manila, Manila buffet restaurants, samgyupsal in Manila to halal restaurants in Manila wherever you go—all the ingredients of a fun family adventure.

A nice start for a Manila tour is for the whole fam to go to the National Museums in Manila. You can then head on to nearby attractions like Ocean Park, Planetarium, and Rizal Shrine. 

• Book a Manila Ocean Park Ticket
• Check out Manila hotels you can book for staycations
• Book Manila car rentals and Manila airport transfers for a hassle-free trip
• Read our article on the best kid-friendly places to visit in Manila

You can join Manila day tours that will tour you inside the walled city of Intramuros or take part in Binondo Chinatown tours! You can also visit Escolta and witness how young artists teamed up and gave its once-dirty streets a new life through art and music.

Thanks to the geographical features of the Philippines, the country is truly a destination fit for the whole family. It’s just a matter of knowing what you want to do. So get a hold of the gang, pack your bags, and gear up!

Take your pick at the many places and experiences you can have in the Philippines for that ultimate family holiday. Book a Philippine hotel stay at one of the luxury resorts in the Philippines for a pampered vacation or try glamping in the Philippines. Browse other all inclusive family vacation packages with Guide to the Philippines, a DOT-accredited online travel agency in the Philippines. Check out other reasons why you should visit the Philippines. 

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