The Philippines With Kids

The Philippines is a perfect family destination that offers a wide range of activities and attractions, such as beautiful beaches, delicious food, and cultural experiences that the whole family can enjoy together. From swimming with whale sharks to exploring historical sites and trying local delicacies, there are plenty of reasons to visit the Philippines with kids:

• Beautiful beaches: The Philippines is known for its stunning beaches with crystal clear waters and white sand, making it a perfect spot for beach lovers of all ages.
• Family-friendly activities: There are plenty of activities to keep families entertained, including swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, island hopping, and more.
• Cultural experiences: The Philippines has a rich culture and history, and families can learn about it by visiting historical sites and museums and attending festivals.
• Delicious cuisine: Filipino cuisine is a blend of different flavors and influences, and there are plenty of delicious dishes to try, from street food to high-end restaurants.
• English-speaking country: English is widely spoken in the Philippines, making it easy for families to communicate with locals and navigate their way around.
• Affordable: Compared to other Southeast Asian destinations, the Philippines is relatively affordable, making it an attractive option for families on a budget.
• Warm hospitality: Filipinos are known for their warmth and hospitality, and families will surely feel welcome and at home during their visit to the country.

Things to Do in the Philippines With Kids

Here are some of the things to do in the Philippines with kids:

1. Beach hopping: The Philippines is famous for its beautiful beaches, and kids will love swimming, building sandcastles, and exploring the different islands.
2. Island hopping: The country has more than 7,000 islands, and island hopping is a great way for families to explore different destinations and enjoy different activities like snorkeling, swimming, and beach picnics.
3. Experience wildlife: The Philippines is home to several unique animal species like tarsiers, whale sharks, and manta rays, and kids can learn about them by visiting wildlife sanctuaries and aquariums.
4. Visit historical sites: The Philippines has a rich history, and kids can learn about it by visiting historic sites like Intramuros, a walled city in Manila, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Vigan.
5. Try local food: Filipino cuisine is a blend of different flavors and influences, and there are plenty of delicious dishes to try, like adobo, lechon, and halo-halo.
6. Attend festivals: The Philippines is known for its colorful festivals like Sinulog, Ati-Atihan, and Dinagyang, where kids can experience the country’s vibrant culture and traditions.

Where to Go in the Philippines With Kids

Here are some of the best places to go in the Philippines with kids:

1. Boracay Island: Boracay is a popular destination known for its beautiful beaches, water activities, and family-friendly resorts.
2. Palawan Island: Palawan is a nature lover’s paradise with stunning beaches, lagoons, and underground rivers that families can explore.
3. Cebu City: Cebu is a vibrant city with plenty of historical sites, museums, and shopping malls, making it a great destination for families.
4. Manila: The capital city of the Philippines is a bustling metropolis with several family-friendly attractions, including theme parks, museums, and shopping malls.
5. Bohol Island: Bohol is famous for its Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Sanctuary, and beautiful beaches, making it a great destination for families who love nature and wildlife.
6. Baguio City: Baguio is a mountain city known for its cool climate, strawberry farms, and beautiful parks, making it a great destination for families who love the outdoors.
7. Subic Bay: Subic Bay is a former US military base turned eco-tourism destination with several family-friendly attractions, including a water park, animal safari, and adventure park.

Read our Baguio itinerary with family.

Where to Stay in the Philippines With Kids

Here are some of the best places to stay in the Philippines with kids:

1. Resorts World Manila, Pasay City: This integrated resort complex has a wide range of family-friendly activities, including a cinema, a theme park, an arcade, and a mall.
2. Shangri-La Boracay Resort and Spa, Boracay Island: This resort offers a variety of amenities for families, including a kids’ club, a beachfront playground, and a children’s pool.
3. The Peninsula Manila, Makati City: This luxurious hotel has a family-friendly atmosphere and offers spacious rooms, a kids’ menu, and a swimming pool.
4. Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino, Cebu City: This hotel offers a wide range of amenities for families, including a pool, a play area, and a video game arcade.
5. Henann Lagoon Resort, Boracay Island: This resort has a large swimming pool that kids will love, and it’s just a short walk away from the beach.
6. Crimson Resort and Spa, Mactan Island: This luxurious resort has a kids’ club, a children’s pool, and a variety of water activities, making it a great option for families with young children.

What to Eat in the Philippines With Kids

Here are some of the best Filipino dishes to try with kids:

1. Adobo: Adobo is a classic Filipino dish made with meat (chicken or pork) cooked in a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and spices.
2. Lechon: Lechon is a roasted pig that is typically served during special occasions, and it’s a favorite among kids because of its crispy skin and tender meat.
3. Lumpia: Lumpia are Filipino spring rolls filled with vegetables, meat, and sometimes seafood, and they’re a great snack or appetizer for kids.
4. Pancit: Pancit is a noodle dish that’s often served at family gatherings, and kids love it because of its colorful and flavorful mix of vegetables, meat, and noodles.
5. Halo-halo: Halo-halo is a popular Filipino dessert that’s made with shaved ice, sweetened condensed milk, various fruits and jellies, and a scoop of ice cream on top. It’s a refreshing treat for kids on a hot day.
6. Chicken Inasal: Chicken Inasal is a grilled chicken dish marinated in a mixture of vinegar, garlic, lemongrass, and annatto, giving it a distinct flavor that kids will surely enjoy.
7. Turon: Turon is a popular Filipino snack made of sliced banana rolled in brown sugar, wrapped in a spring roll wrapper, then fried to a crisp. It’s a great dessert or snack for kids.

What to Wear in the Philippines

The Philippines is a tropical country with a warm and humid climate, so it’s important to dress appropriately for the weather. Here are some clothing items to consider packing for your trip:

1. Lightweight and breathable clothing: Pack comfortable and breathable clothing made of natural fibers like cotton, linen, or bamboo to keep cool in the hot and humid weather.
2. Sun protection: Bring a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays.
3. Swimsuits and cover-ups: The Philippines has beautiful beaches and pools, so be sure to pack swimsuits and cover-ups for your water activities.
4. Comfortable footwear: Pack comfortable and breathable shoes or sandals that can handle a lot of walking, as you’ll likely be exploring a lot of the country’s attractions.
5. Rain gear: The Philippines has a rainy season, so it’s a good idea to pack a lightweight raincoat or umbrella in case of unexpected showers.
6. Modest clothing: While the Philippines is generally a liberal and accepting country, it’s important to be respectful of the local culture and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites. Pack clothing that covers your shoulders and knees for such occasions.
7. Layers: Even though the Philippines is generally warm and humid, some areas can get chilly, especially in air-conditioned spaces like malls and restaurants. Pack a light jacket or cardigan for such instances.

When to Go to the Philippines

The best time to visit the Philippines is generally during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During these months, the weather is generally sunny and dry, making it the perfect time for outdoor activities and beach adventures. However, the peak tourist season is from December to February, so expect higher prices and more crowds during this time.

The rainy season in the Philippines runs from May to October, with typhoons possible from June to September. While the rainy season can bring cooler temperatures and lush green landscapes, it can also cause flooding and disruptions to travel plans.

If you’re looking for a less crowded and cheaper time to visit the Philippines, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of May and October. During these months, the weather is usually good, with occasional showers, and there are fewer tourists around.

How Long to Stay in the Philippines

The length of your stay in the Philippines will depend on your travel preferences and the places you plan to visit. Here are some things to consider when deciding how long to stay:

1. The number of destinations: If you plan to visit several different destinations in the Philippines, you’ll need more time to explore and travel between them.
2. Activities and interests: The Philippines offers a wide range of activities, from beaches and water sports to cultural attractions and nature tours. Consider how much time you want to spend on each activity.
3. Time of year: If you’re traveling during the rainy season, you may need to add extra days to your itinerary to account for any travel delays or disruptions.
4. Budget: The longer you stay in the Philippines, the more expensive your trip will be, so consider your budget when deciding how long to stay.

A good starting point for a trip to the Philippines is around 7 to 10 days, which should give you enough time to explore a few different destinations and experience some of the country’s highlights. If you have more time, consider extending your trip to 2-3 weeks to fully immerse yourself in the local culture and experience more of what the Philippines has to offer.

1-Week Philippines Itinerary With Family

Here’s a sample 1-week itinerary for a family trip to the Philippines with kids:

Day 1-2: Manila

• Visit historical sites such as Intramuros and Rizal Park.
• Learn about marine life at the Manila Ocean Park.
• Visit a shopping mall like SM Mall of Asia or Greenbelt for some family-friendly shopping and dining.

Day 3-4: Palawan

• Explore the Puerto Princesa Underground River, one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature.
• Visit the Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center to see local wildlife like the Philippine crocodile and Palawan bearcat.
• Relax on the beautiful beaches of El Nido.

Day 5-6: Bohol

• See the iconic Chocolate Hills and the tarsiers, the world’s smallest primates, at the Bohol Habitat Conservation Center.
• Take a river cruise on the Loboc River and enjoy a traditional Filipino lunch onboard.
• Visit the Baclayon Church, one of the oldest churches in the Philippines.

Day 7: Cebu

• Visit the historic Magellan’s Cross and Basilica del Santo Niño in Cebu City.
• Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of Kawasan Falls in Badian.
• Enjoy a delicious seafood dinner at a local restaurant.

This itinerary can be customized based on your family’s interests and preferences. Keep in mind that travel times between destinations can be long, so it’s best to plan your itinerary with a focus on a few key destinations rather than trying to cram in too many activities.

2-Week Philippines Itinerary With Family

Here’s a sample 2-week itinerary for a family trip to the Philippines:

Day 1-3: Manila

• Visit historical sites such as Intramuros and Rizal Park.
• Learn about marine life at the Manila Ocean Park.
• Visit a shopping mall like SM Mall of Asia or Greenbelt for some family-friendly shopping and dining.

Day 4-5: Batangas

• Take a boat to the nearby island of Tingloy to experience the pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters of Masasa Beach.
• Explore the unique rock formations and hidden coves of Sombrero Island.

Day 6-8: Palawan

• Explore the Puerto Princesa Underground River, one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature.
• Visit the Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center to see local wildlife like the Philippine crocodile and Palawan bearcat.
• Relax on the beautiful beaches of El Nido and enjoy island hopping tours to nearby islands.

Day 9-11: Bohol

• See the iconic Chocolate Hills and the tarsiers, the world’s smallest primates, at the Bohol Habitat Conservation Center.
• Take a river cruise on the Loboc River and enjoy a traditional Filipino lunch onboard.
• Visit the Baclayon Church, one of the oldest churches in the Philippines.

Day 12-14: Siargao

• Enjoy the laid-back island vibe and surf culture of Siargao.
• Take surfing lessons at Cloud 9, one of the most famous surf breaks in the world.
• Visit the Magpupungko Rock Pools and Sugba Lagoon for some family-friendly water activities.

Day 15: Cebu

• Visit the historic Magellan’s Cross and Basilica del Santo Niño in Cebu City.
• Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of Kawasan Falls in Badian.
• Enjoy a delicious seafood dinner at a local restaurant.

How to Get Around the Philippines

The Philippines is made up of more than 7,000 islands, so getting around can require a combination of transportation modes. Here are some options for getting around the Philippines:

1. Flights – Domestic flights connect major cities and islands, making air travel the most efficient way to cover long distances.
2. Buses – Buses are a popular mode of transportation for getting around cities and provinces. Several bus companies operate routes between major cities and tourist destinations.
3. Ferries – Ferries are a common mode of transportation for getting between islands. Many of the major islands have several ferry ports with regular services connecting them.
4. Jeepneys – Jeepneys are a popular and unique mode of transportation in the Philippines. They are essentially converted jeeps that serve as shared taxis on set routes.
5. Tricycles – Tricycles are a popular mode of transportation for short distances. They are motorbikes with sidecars that can accommodate up to three passengers.
6. Taxis – Taxis are widely available in major cities; some are metered while others may require fare negotiation.

It’s important to note that transportation infrastructure can vary greatly between different parts of the country. In more remote areas, options may be limited, and travel times may be longer. It’s also important to plan ahead and research transportation options for the areas you plan to visit.

How Much to Travel to the Philippines

The cost of traveling to the Philippines will depend on several factors, including your travel style, itinerary, and the time of year you visit. Here are some general estimates to give you an idea of what to expect:

1. Accommodation – Budget accommodations such as hostels and guesthouses can cost as little as $10-15 USD per night, while mid-range hotels and resorts can cost between $50-100 USD per night. Luxury accommodations can range from $150 USD per night and up.
2. Food – Street food and local restaurants can be very affordable, with meals ranging from $1-5 USD. Western-style restaurants and high-end dining options can be more expensive, with meals costing upwards of $20 USD.
3. Transportation – Local transportation, such as jeepneys and tricycles, can cost as little as $0.20-0.50 USD per ride. Domestic flights between major cities and islands can cost anywhere from $50-200 USD depending on the distance and time of year.
4. Activities – The cost of activities can vary widely depending on what you choose to do. Many outdoor activities, such as island hopping tours, snorkeling, and surfing, can cost between $20-50 USD per person. Entrance fees to attractions such as museums and national parks can range from $1-10 USD.

Overall, budget travelers can expect to spend around $30-50 USD per day, while mid-range travelers can expect to spend around $70-100 USD per day. Luxury travelers can expect to spend upwards of $150 USD per day. These estimates are based on costs outside of major cities such as Manila or Cebu, where prices may be higher.