14 EPIC THINGS TO DO WITH (OR WITHOUT) KIDS IN THE PHILIPPINES

When it comes to family holidays, the Philippines has a unique proposition - it's not just a destination, it's an adventure. An epic archipelago of more than 7,000 islands, each brimming with its own vibrant culture, rich history and mind-boggling natural beauty.

The sheer variety of things to do with kids in the Philippines is staggering. It's a playground where reality often feels like fantasy. From swimming with millions of sardines to watching rare tarsiers to jumping into unbelievably blue waterfall pools, the Philippines is a tapestry of experiences that are both educational and exciting.

Moreover, Filipinos adore children and put family at the heart of their lives. This shared value makes the Philippines an extremely child-friendly destination. Rest assured, your kids will not just be entertained, but embraced.

In short, a trip here is one that promises to leave you with not just photographs, but memories, not just souvenirs, but stories. It's not just another place on the map - it's an epic adventure waiting to unfold. This guide will give you 14 epic adventures to add to your list of things to do with (or without) the kiddos in the Philippines.

1. Swim with sardines in Moalboal

Ready to play follow the leader with a million shimmering, silver buddies? Head to the coastal town of Moalboal for a truly breathtaking experience – the opportunity to swim alongside giant sardine balls. Just imagine millions of sardines swirling around you. It's a beautiful, rare spectacle that left us in awe! And the rush of being in the middle of them is nothing short of electrifying. Don't worry if you're not a professional scuba diver, as this epic show takes place close to the shoreline. Even snorkelers and kids with only goggles can easily witness this underwater marvel. The sardines don't seem to mind the human visitors, they just whirl around you in their beautiful aquatic dance.

Tip: You can easily hire a wooden raft from one of the many shops along the beach for the kids to hang onto if that makes them feel more comfortable. That’s what we did! If you don’t have snorkeling equipment, it’s easy and cheap to hire when you get there as well.

2. Feel the power of nature at Inambakan Falls

Ever wanted to feel like you're in a movie, standing under a waterfall, completely awe-struck? Inambakan Falls is your chance. This powerful five-tiered marvel, nestled in the heart of Ginatilan in Cebu, offers the perfect blend of adventure and serenity. The base of the falls is easily accessible with well-marked trails, making it ideal for families. Reaching Inambakan is an adventure itself - a 1.5hour drive from Moalboal followed by a brief, thrilling motorcycle ride along a dirt track to the entry of the falls. The best time to visit? Aim for the dry season, from January to May, when the trail is easy to traverse and the waters most enticing. While there is a small entrance fee for upkeep, the unforgettable experience of visiting Inambakan Falls is priceless.

Tip: Don’t forget there are multiple levels here so if the first level is busy, head up to the next tier for a better chance of having it all to yourself! We arrived here about 1pm and the first level was very busy but the second and third levels were completely empty!

3. Find a hidden treasure at Dao Falls

Now, if you're a fan of waterfalls, you might think you've seen it all, but Dao Falls is on another level. Nestled in the town of Samboan, the trek to Dao Falls is nothing short of an adventure. Picture yourself strolling through a forest, then navigating along a scenic river, until you’re met with a towering cascade pouring down into an insanely blue basin. It's like walking straight into a postcard. The best part? This location isn't on the regular tourist radar so you’ll most likely enjoy this spot with fewer crowds.

Keep in mind, the trek takes about 30 minutes and you’ll need to walk through water so don’t forget your water shoes. There's also a small entrance fee which includes a guide who will accompany you along the trek. And remember, a small tip at the end will go a long way.

4. Swing into Cambugahay Falls

Okay, so what if we told you about a spot so magical, it's like stepping into your very own fairy tale? Well, Cambugahay Falls is that spot! These beautiful falls are the crowning glory of Siquijor – an insanely gorgeous three-tiered waterfall nestled deep in the heart of the island.

The falls cascade down a natural limestone formation into pools that look like they've been filled with blue Gatorade. Just a glimpse of this wonder will make you say “wow”. And no, we’re not exaggerating!

The pools are perfect for a swim and for thrill-seekers, the Tarzan rope swings are a must-try. For 50PHP per person you can swing from a rope and plunge into the sparkling water as many times as you like. Our girls loved the swings and jumping off the top of the falls! If floating is more your style, you can also hire a bamboo raft for 200PHP.

Tip: Arrive as soon as the falls open at 8am to enjoy this stunning place without the crowds.

5. Visit nature's sweetest treat, Bohol Chocolate Hills

No, it's not Willy Wonka's factory, but it's close! Imagine more than a thousand perfectly-shaped cone hills, as far as the eye can see. Now, picture them coated in vibrant green grass, which, during the dry season, turns a tantalizing brown. Yep, you guessed it, these unique formations look like giant Hershey's kisses scattered across the landscape. Delicious! But, unfortunately, they’re not edible - we checked!

Getting to this confectionery landscape is a piece of cake. It's smack in the middle of Bohol, easily reachable by a day trip if you’re staying along the coast, or you can find accommodation near the hills in an area called Carmen (that’s what we did!).

Tip: If you want to fly your drone here, make sure you arrive before 8am.

6. Go snorkeling at Siete Pecados

Just a short boat ride from Coron Town, Siete Pecados offers an underwater playground that is simply ahhhmazing. The water is crystal clear, so your visibility is top-notch, the variety of sea life is jaw-dropping and the experience is nothing short of exhilarating!

This is definitely one of our favourite snorkelling spots. The coral reefs here are among the healthiest in the region, thanks to strict no fishing and no anchoring rules. You’ll be greeted by a kaleidoscope of vibrant corals, playful clownfish and if you're lucky, a sea turtle or two!

7. Escape to a piece of Heaven on Earth at Ditaytayan Sandbar

Let us paint a picture: imagine a strip of gleaming white sand, so perfect it's almost a cliché. Surrounding this sandbar is the most stunning turquoise and sapphire-blue waters. Combine this with a sky that looks like an artist’s palette, and bam! You're standing on the Ditaytayan Sandbar. But it's not all about lounging around (although, frankly, it’s hard to resist). The water around the sandbar is a snorkeler's paradise, teeming with vibrant corals and curious marine life including super cute clownfish (you know the one from Nemo!).

This dreamy spot is about a two-hour traditional boat ride from Coron town. You can visit by booking a private or group Island Escapade Tour.

8. Meeting the super cute Tarsiers

Meet the Tarsiers, one of the world's tiniest primates and undisputed heart-melters. These cute little critters, endemic to the Philippines, have an uncanny resemblance to a character straight out of a sci-fi movie.

They are the size of your palm with enormous beseeching eyes and the ability to rotate their head nearly 360 degrees. Impressive! But keep in mind, they are timid and require their space so as cute as they are, please keep a respectful distance.

If you're seeking an encounter that respects both the charm of these little wonders and their conservation needs, make your way to the Tarsier Sanctuary at Corella. This sanctuary is a tranquil forest haven that provides the perfect home for the Tarsiers. Unlike other places, they truly put the welfare of these lovely creatures first.

9. Spend a day on Balicasag Island

This small island off Bohol stands out, not for its size, but for the diversity of marine life found in its surrounding waters. Expect to be greeted by a myriad of fish species, a healthy population of sea turtles, and most impressively, a magnificent coral reef that lines the seabed. But it's not all about what's under the water. The island itself, with its simplistic charm, is worth exploring. The locals, called 'Balicasaginos', are warm and friendly, happy to share stories about their island life. Then there's the dolphin watching. Just a short boat ride away from the island, pods of dolphins can be seen frolicking in the sea, adding a touch of magic to the overall Balicasag experience.

To reach the island, your best bet is to hop on a public outrigger boat, or "bangka" as the locals call it, from Alona Beach. These boats leave early in the morning (we left at 6.30am). It's about a 45-minute to an hour-long voyage.

10. Go canyoneering at Kawasan Falls

If you're in Cebu and your family has a shared love for adventure, this is an experience that you absolutely shouldn't miss. You'll trek, swim and for the courageous, jump from towering cliff edges into the natural, cool turquoise pools below. The real pièce de résistance? The magnificent Kawasan Falls itself. This cascading beauty provides the grand finale to your canyoneering quest, where you can swim in its refreshing base pool, or simply admire the awe-inspiring force of the water. Safety is top-notch, with professional guides ensuring you're equipped with life vests, helmets, and a comprehensive safety briefing.

With minimum age requirements that differ depending on who choose to go with, do check if your little adventurers are ready for this adventure.

11. Take a mystical journey to Twin Lagoon

Imagine a place where freshwater kisses saltwater, where limestone cliffs tower like ancient sentinels and where tranquility is more than a state of mind. Welcome to the Twin Lagoon in Coron. A visit here is like entering a different realm, one where time seems to hold its breath. You'll find two lagoons - one hidden from plain sight, accessible only by swimming through a narrow crevice or climbing over a wooden ladder during high tide.

The lagoon's water is a mix of warm and cool, a surreal sensation that results from the blending of freshwater from the cliffs and saltwater from the sea. It's a unique, natural jacuzzi that nature decided to gift to Coron. Rumor even has it that these lagoons were the bathing place of fairies. When you get here, you’ll understand why such tales are hard not to believe!

Tip: If you’d like to experience Twin Lagoon with fewer crowds, plan to be here between 11.30am and 1pm when most tour groups are elsewhere having lunch.

12. Go swimming at the famous Kayangan Lake

Sitting pretty just a short boat ride from Coron Town is a lake, but not just any lake. This freshwater gem is so clear that it’s like looking through glass. The visibility is unbelievable.

Surrounded by majestic limestone karst formations, it's like stepping into a picture postcard. But this isn't a static image, it's a living, breathing spectacle where the cliffs seem to lean over the water, admiring their own reflection.

Reaching this paradise involves a bit of a climb up some stairs to a viewpoint before heading down the other side. Consider this the opening act before the grand spectacle. Once you get there jump in, feel the cool water surround you, watch the playful fish dart around, and experience the kind of peace that only comes from being immersed in such a beautiful place.

Tip: This place is one of the Philippines most famous natural attractions so arrive early by hiring a private boat if you want to beat the crowds.

13. Step into a dream at Banol Beach

Now here's a spot that has truly perfected the art of being a beach. Wedged into the jaw-dropping landscape of Coron, this little paradise has managed to take the "beach game" up several notches. It is definitely our favourite beach in Coron.

Think snow-white sand as soft as powdered sugar, gently lapped by clear, turquoise waters that are warmer than a tropical daydream. And it's all tucked away beneath soaring limestone cliffs that wouldn't look out of place on a postcard. Our girls loved climbing the rocks, playing with the friendly dogs and snorkeling.

Tip: This beach starts to get busy around 11am when tour groups arrive for lunch. We arrived at 8.30am on a private boat and had the beach all to ourselves. It was pure bliss.

14. Sway on hammocks at Banana Island

Located about a 1.5hr boat ride from Coron, Banana Island is no monkey business. This gorgeous spot is known for its banana-like silhouette, an amazing underwater world and family-friendly attractions that make it the perfect haven for everyone.

Below the gentle waves, you'll find a flourishing coral reef and a parade of different oceanic species. On land, the soft, sandy beach is surrounded by clear waters and swaying palms. But that's not all!

We think the best part of this island is the many swings and hammocks you’ll find along the beach! Parents can put their feet up on one of the hammocks while the kids play happily on the swings! Doesn’t get much more relaxing than that!

Banana Island is one of the three spots included on the Island Escapade Tour.

Tip: If you book a private boat, we recommend making this your second stop of the day to beat the crowds.