A Month in the Philippines: The Ultimate Island-Hopping Escape 🌴🥥
By Nina Vincent, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
With over 7,000 islands, Incredible nature, and some of the clearest waters in Southeast Asia- If you’re an Aussie exchange student and staring down a generous four-month university break, you’ve gotta go to The Philippines.
Out of everywhere I’ve travelled, this country completely blew me away. I genuinely believe the Philippines has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The water is so blue it doesn’t feel real, and every island brings something different. From waterfalls and shipwreck dives to quiet coves and unforgettable sunsets. But it’s not just the landscapes. What made this trip unforgettable were the people: warm, helpful, genuine, and always willing to share their country with kindness.
Planning a trip across 7,000+ islands might seem overwhelming, but I promise it’s manageable and absolutely worth it. Here’s a 30-day route I did that I’d recommend to anyone looking to have the time of their life.
Start in Coron🤿
Fly into Manila or Cebu, then hop on an internal flight to Coron. This peaceful island is perfect for a slow start. It’s known for its wreck diving lagoons, and island-hopping tours.
Take a Boat Expedition to El Nido ⛵️
This was the highlight of my entire trip.
Rather than taking a direct ferry, book a 3-day island expedition with a company like Sea Quest. You’ll travel by boat from Coron to El Nido, stopping off at remote islands along the way and sleeping in beachfront bungalows under the clearest stars. You’ll swim, eat freshly caught fish, and feel like you’re living your castaway dream.
If you do one thing on this trip, do this.
El Nido & Port Barton 🌺
Spend 2–3 nights in El Nido, soaking up its iconic limestone cliffs and turquoise lagoons. It’s stunning but tourist-heavy — so if you’re craving a slower pace, hop on a bus to Port Barton. It’s smaller, quieter, and in many ways, even more beautiful. Think hammock naps, palm-lined shores, and beach bonfires. I recommend staying 3 nights here for proper chill time.
Cebu & Siquijor 🐚
From Port Barton, head to Puerto Princesa and catch a flight to Cebu.
You’ve got two options here:
- Moalboal if you want to try canyoneering or snorkel with sardines,
- Or my personal favourite: Siquijor.
Siquijor has a reputation for being a “mystical” island — known for waterfalls, caves, and local legends of magic and healing. I spent a week there riding around on a scooter, snorkelling with turtles, visiting hidden coves, and swimming beneath waterfalls. It’s quiet, peaceful, and honestly a bit enchanted. Highly recommend.
End in Siargao 🏄♀️
Save the best for last. Siargao was the island that completely stole my heart. Known as the surf capital of the Philippines, it has an amazing balance of wellness and fun.
You’ll find daily yoga classes, smoothie bowls, surfing lessons, and also — incredible nightlife. Think music under the stars, cheap drinks, and a community of backpackers and locals that make it feel like one big, friendly beach town. I’d stay at least a week here, if not longer.
If you’re spending a semester abroad in Australia, this is the perfect way to spend your extended uni break. The Philippines is beautiful, budget-friendly, and packed with unique experiences you won’t get anywhere else. It’s ideal for solo travellers, friend groups, or anyone who’s up for a little adventure with a lot of chill.
So yes, book the flights. Island-hop. Swim with turtles. Dance under palm trees. You won’t regret it.
