From pristine, tranquil beaches to lush tropical forests, the Philippines offers nature lovers the perfect escape. Frequent low-cost and full-service flight connections from Australia and New Zealand to the Philippines’ many islands connect you with off-grid escapes ranging from rustic on-the-sand retreats to luxurious eco-resorts. The relaxed and welcoming vibe and warm hospitality of the Filipino people only enhance the experience.
Here’s a curated selection of some of the most unique and idyllic retreats in the Philippines.
Dryft Camp, Darocotan Island, El Nido
If getting off the beaten path for a secluded paradise escape sounds like your kind of travel experience, then Dryft Camp in the Philippines promises to tick all the boxes. Accessible only by private boat transfer, each glamping tent is elevated above the island’s white sandy beach on its own artistically-built driftwood deck. You’ll spend your days soaking up fantastic sea views outside your tent or lounging on your hammock below.
While all tents include a queen-sized bed, guests can either choose to relax on their deck with room service or enjoy the onsite restaurant serving fresh seafood and sustainably sourced local produce. Offering the same sense of luxury and style, the resort’s thatched Hives are an alternative accommodation option for guests keen to soak up the bohemian island vibe of the Philippines.
Qi Palawan, El Nido
Made up of only 8 rustic cottages tucked behind the beach in leafy surroundings, a stay at Qi Palawan is your chance to feel totally disconnected in paradise (AKA the Philippines). Amongst the peace and tranquillity of Palawan’s pristine and unspoilt north-eastern coastline, the resort invites guests to enjoy a mix of Swedish and traditional Filipino massages, herbal baths in a luxurious soaking tub, yoga classes, and a range of other water and land activities from scuba diving to cycling.
Nay Palad Hideaway, Siargao
Nay Palad Hideaway on the small palm-fringed island of Siargao offers nine luxuriously designed villas – each with its own private terrace and views of the lush tropical surroundings. The resort’s beautiful infinity pool offers a perfect place to relax while the decadent onsite spa facilities provide guests with a selection of world-class treatments including therapists specialising in Hilot, a traditional Filipino massage recognised for its healing qualities.
Offering a more tailored approach to the concept of wellness, yoga and meditation classes are offered to guests in any place they desire, whether it be in the sea pagoda, treehouse, or even on a stand-up paddleboard floating in the bay. Guests at the resort can also support their inner wellness by enjoying fresh meals to order and participating in cooking classes that feature local catch and produce from the resort’s very own organic farm.
Nacpan Beach Glamping in El Nido
In El Nido, Palawan, the idyllic Nacpan Beach is home to the Nacpan Beach Glamping resort, where you’ll find a small village of spacious glamping tents nestled among the tropical foliage just behind the powdery white beach. Each tent rivals any luxury hotel room, furnished with two queen-sized beds, sisal rug flooring, and stylish seating. The tents even come with a mini-bar and overnight air-conditioning.
While guests have exclusive access to the nearby beach at Nacpan Beach Glamping, the resort also includes a private pool with a swim-up bar and offers private sailing trips and romantic dinners on the beach.
Badian Island Wellness Resort, Cebu
Recognised for its therapeutic open-air approach pools, the jewel in the crown at Badian Island Wellness Resort in the Philippines is undoubtedly its beautifully landscaped “Thalasso” ionised seawater pools are said to promote relaxation, revitalise the body, and re-balance mineral deficiencies. Set among the greenery of Cebu’s Badian Island, the resort is nestled in spacious grounds with private white sand beaches which are ideal for calming walks and yoga sessions. Signature treatments at Badian Island Wellness Resort also include warm seaweed baths and pure virgin coconut oil massages.
The Farm, San Benito
Located in the lush leafy region of Batangas, south of Manila, The Farm at San Benito is an eco-luxury medical wellness resort spread across 48 hectares of green jungle. With views of majestic mountains, an appetising menu of delicious nutrient-rich cuisine, and a range of onsite wellness treatments, The Farm is the ideal environment to unwind, re-energise, and detox.
Treatments include anything from detox cleanses and private ‘mindful movement’ sessions to hydrotherapy and anti-aging treatments. Overnight, guests are spoilt for choice at this Phillipines wellness retreat – rooms include the luxurious Palmera Glass Villa with an outdoor bathtub and shower, and a range of stunning garden suites and villas, pool villas, and luxury residences.
Soul Tribe Beach Retreat, Siargao
Soul Tribe Beach Retreat on the island of Siargao, Mindanao, embraces style and simplicity all in one. Here, guests can choose to stay in one of the resort’s air-conditioned beachside cabanas or immerse themselves deeper into the jungle behind by staying in a glamping tent – each with their own spacious deck area. The Philippines resort is a popular choice for wellness enthusiasts, known for its signature organic meals and cocktails, as well as activities such as surfing, yoga classes, horseback riding, and stand-up paddleboarding.
Kwentong Dagat, Zambales
Nestled among the greenery, Kwentong Dagat offers a tranquil escape just a 3-hour drive from Manila in the village of San Felipe, Zambales. The beachside resort offers a unique approach to glamping with a choice between two styles of thatched roof cabins, both of which are built with natural materials. A stay at Kwentong Dagat is a rare chance to totally disconnect among nature with guests invited to join daily fitness and wellness classes as well as try delicious plant-based cuisine in the Phillipines resort’s open-air restaurant.
