Where to Stay in Philippines
A regional guide to accommodation across the country
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Regions of Philippines
Each region offers a distinct character and accommodation scene. Find the one that matches your travel plans.
The capital region offers the country's most developed accommodation infrastructure, from international five-star chains to budget hotels and serviced apartments. Business hotels dominate Makati and BGC, while airport hotels cluster near NAIA. Most travelers use Manila as a gateway rather than a destination, staying one or two nights before heading to beach destinations.
This mountainous region features cooler climate accommodation from Baguio's pine-surrounded hotels to basic homestays in Sagada and Banaue's rice terrace villages. Properties range from heritage houses to backpacker lodges, with many offering stunning mountain and terrace views. Accommodation is generally more basic than coastal areas, with heating rarely available despite cool temperatures.
The northwestern coast combines Spanish colonial heritage with beach resorts, particularly around Pagudpud and La Union. Vigan offers heritage hotels in restored colonial buildings, while La Union has become a surf town with beachfront hostels and boutique resorts. The region provides good value compared to more famous beach destinations.
Home to the perfect cone of Mayon Volcano and whale shark encounters in Donsol, Bicol offers a mix of city hotels in Legazpi and Naga, plus beach and eco-tourism lodges. Accommodation is generally more affordable and less developed than other tourist regions, with many family-run properties offering authentic local experiences.
Cebu City serves as the Visayas' main hub with business hotels and resorts in Mactan Island. The region includes world-class diving in Moalboal and Malapascua, Bohol's beach resorts in Panglao and Alona Beach, and Dumaguete's laid-back guesthouses. Accommodation ranges from backpacker dive lodges to luxury beach resorts, with excellent mid-range options throughout.
The Philippines' most developed beach destination offers the country's highest concentration of resorts, from budget beachfront huts to five-star properties. White Beach is lined with accommodation of every category, while quieter Bulabog Beach attracts kitesurfers. Post-rehabilitation standards have improved significantly, though prices remain the highest in the country during peak season.
The country's last frontier offers diverse accommodation from El Nido's dramatic limestone cliff resorts to Coron's dive lodges and Port Barton's laid-back beach huts. Puerto Princesa provides city hotel options for underground river visitors. Accommodation tends toward boutique eco-resorts and beach cottages, with some exclusive private island resorts. Infrastructure is less developed than other tourist areas, with frequent power and water issues.
The southern island offers varied accommodation from Davao's business hotels and beach resorts in Samal Island to Siargao's surf camps and Camiguin's volcanic island lodges. Generally less touristy than Luzon and Visayas, accommodation is more affordable with fewer international chains. Some areas have travel advisories, so research current safety situations before booking.
The Philippines' premier surf destination has evolved from backpacker shacks to include boutique resorts and wellness retreats, while maintaining its laid-back island vibe. General Luna offers the densest concentration of accommodation near Cloud 9, with options spreading to quieter areas. The island perfectly balances rustic charm with modern comforts, though infrastructure remains basic with frequent power outages.
These islands offer diverse accommodation from Bacolod's city hotels to Iloilo's business properties and beach resorts in Guimaras. The region sees fewer international tourists, resulting in better value and more authentic local experiences. Accommodation standards are improving with growing domestic tourism and emerging dive destinations.
Accommodation Landscape
What to expect from accommodation options across Philippines
International chains including Shangri-La, Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, and Sofitel operate primarily in Metro Manila, Cebu, and Boracay. Regional Philippine chains like Microtel, Go Hotels, and RedDoorz provide reliable budget to mid-range options in cities and major tourist destinations. Asian chains, particularly from Singapore and Malaysia, have expanded presence in recent years. However, much of the country's accommodation remains independently owned, especially in beach destinations and islands.
Pension houses (family-run guesthouses) remain the backbone of Philippine accommodation, offering clean, basic rooms with Filipino hospitality. Beach resorts range from simple nipa hut operations to sophisticated boutique properties, many family-owned and operated for generations. Homestays are increasingly popular in rural and mountain areas, providing authentic cultural experiences. Many properties are booked directly via Facebook or phone rather than international platforms, particularly in less touristy areas.
Bahay kubo or nipa huts—traditional bamboo and palm-thatch cottages—are common in beach destinations, offering authentic tropical living with varying comfort levels. Overwater bungalows have appeared in some upscale resorts, particularly in Palawan. Treehouse accommodations exist in some eco-resorts. Heritage houses in Vigan and other colonial towns offer stays in restored Spanish-era buildings. Floating cottages and houseboats provide unique experiences in some lake and river destinations. Many beach resorts embrace open-air 'bahay kubo modern' design, blending traditional materials with contemporary comforts.
Booking Tips for Philippines
Country-specific advice for finding the best accommodation
Popular destinations like Boracay, El Nido, and Siargao fill up 3-6 months in advance for Christmas, New Year, and Holy Week. Many small resorts have limited rooms and don't overbook, so when they're full, they're full. Consider booking directly with properties via Facebook or email for better rates and flexibility, as many smaller resorts don't use booking platforms or charge higher rates through them.
Room rates may or may not include breakfast, and boat transfers (essential in island destinations like El Nido and Coron) are often extra and expensive. Confirm whether airport transfers, island hopping tours, or activities are included. Many beach resorts charge separately for kayaks, snorkeling gear, and other equipment. Check if air conditioning incurs additional charges, as some budget places charge extra for AC use.
Philippine resorts often have stricter cancellation policies than international hotels, with many requiring full payment 30-60 days before arrival during peak season. Typhoons can disrupt travel June-November, so consider travel insurance. Some properties offer flexible rebooking if weather affects your trip, but policies vary widely. Smaller properties may not process refunds efficiently, so book with reputable operators.
Power outages are common in island destinations, and not all properties have generators. Confirm backup power if you need to charge devices or require air conditioning. Water supply can be inconsistent, with some resorts having limited hours for hot water. Internet speeds vary dramatically—if connectivity is essential, verify this before booking, as 'Wi-Fi available' may mean slow, intermittent service.
Island destinations require boat transfers that may be weather-dependent and expensive. Properties on remote islands may be idyllic but limit your flexibility to explore. In cities, traffic is severe—choose accommodation near your main activities. Beach locations vary between party areas and quiet zones; research the specific beach section, as atmosphere can change dramatically within a few hundred meters.
When to Book
Timing matters for both price and availability across Philippines
Book 3-6 months ahead for December-January and Holy Week (March/April). Popular destinations like Boracay, El Nido, and Siargao sell out entirely during these periods. Prices can be 2-3 times higher than low season, and minimum stay requirements (3-7 nights) are common. Some exclusive resorts require even earlier booking for Christmas and New Year.
November and February-March offer good availability with 4-8 weeks advance booking usually sufficient. Prices are moderate, and you'll have better selection. Weather is generally excellent, making these ideal months for value-conscious travelers. Some properties offer early booking discounts if you reserve 2-3 months ahead.
June-October sees the lowest prices and best availability, with last-minute bookings often possible and negotiable. However, typhoon season (July-October) brings weather risks, particularly for eastern destinations. Some resorts close for renovations during these months. Western Palawan and some areas have better weather during these months, making them good value options.
For the best balance of price and availability, book 6-8 weeks in advance for dry season travel (December-May) and 2-4 weeks for wet season. Always book major holidays far in advance. Consider booking directly with smaller properties via Facebook or email for better rates and personalized service, especially in beach destinations where online platform fees significantly increase costs.
Good to Know
Local customs and practical information for Philippines