The Philippines is gifted with some of the world's most unique biodiversity. But given its flora and fauna, there is another gift that the country has been endowed with that is envy for many a country - its gracious beaches.

One of the Philippines' best assets are the 7,107 islands filled with fine white sandy shores coupled with the world's most diverse marine life.

Here are some of the Top Beach Destinations in the Philippines.

 

1. Boracay, Aklan

If you want white, super fine sand amongst turquoise clear water in the Philippines, then Boracay is your number 1 destination. Though there are a host of white sand beaches in the tropical country, nothing quite beats the fine sandy shores of Boracay. Not only is Boracay associated when you say white beach in the Philippines, but it is also the most popular holiday destination in the country.

Along with the picturesque beach, Boracay offers a venue for party goers during the night. At night, the beach is more alive than ever with candle-lit sand castles, percussion bands, cozy restaurants and bars that lay open till dawn.

 

2. El Nido, Palawan

Palawan has been dubbed "the last frontier" of the Philippines, and its coastal town of El Nido is the gateway to the best marine life adventure.

Not only does it boast of powder-fine beaches and crystal-clear waters, but the views are spectacular and they are what really sell the place. El Nido's majestic karst limestone formations, empty lagoons, marble cliffs, prehistoric caves and waterfalls will leave one breathless and speechless with all their natural glory.

In addition to these scenic spots, El Nido's surrounding waters also has more than 50 species of coral, whales, whale sharks, sea cows, manta rays, dolphins and endangered turtles which also make it a popular zone for divers.

3. Samal, Davao

Samal is getting to be a burgeoning tourist destination, and now it's its 118-kilometer coastline of white sandy beaches are catching up to the long list of the Philippine's best beaches.

Samal is a favourite among snorkelers and divers because of its pristine waters, lush greens, rock formations, mangrove and coconut palms. Tourism for the island is growing strong because of the plentiful resorts which provide an array of choices for visitors.

 

4. Panglao, Bohol

Panglao is a common destination for local and foreign travellers alike in search of its gorgeous beaches. It has a wide array of aquatic attractions. Exciting marine adventures and scenes include dolphin watching, whale spotting, diving with barracudas, jackfish, sea snakes and brilliant coral formations.

The island of Bohol is also famous for its Chocolate Hills, these are more than 1,000 dome-shaped hills quaintly positioned side by side. The hills are named 'chocolate' because of their brown color during dry seasons. Along with these, Bohol is also home to the world's smallest primate" - the endangered Philippine tarsier.

5. Pagudpud/Bangui, Ilocos Norte

Locally called the Boracay of the North, the coastal town of Pagudpud is situated along the northern tip of the island of Luzon. It's quiet community and little influence with commercialism offer travellers a breath of fresh air when it comes to viewing the world.

Reaching Pagudpud takes a whole lot of time and effort, but the impossibly blue waters that you will witness upon reaching the province is a luxury to the eyes. You have to see the beach for yourself to revel in its beauty.

The beaches in the island are usually empty because of travel constraints, but this just adds to the beauty of the place as it makes an ideal spot for those who just want solitude with the sun, sand and surf.