Philippines Family Travel Guide 2025
Everything families need to know for a successful trip to Philippines with kids.
The Philippines is a stunning archipelago of over 7,000 islands offering pristine beaches, world-class diving, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. From the powdery white sands of Boracay to the dramatic limestone cliffs of Palawan, this tropical paradise combines Spanish colonial heritage with Southeast Asian charm.
Top Family Activities
The best experiences for families in Philippines.
Manila Ocean Park
Marine theme park behind Rizal Park featuring an underwater tunnel walk-through, sea lion shows, jellyfish exhibits, and mermaid performances. Manila's best attraction for young children.
Boracay White Beach Swimming
Boracay's calm, shallow Station 1 waters are ideal for children. Gentle waves, white sand, and numerous family-friendly beach restaurants make this the perfect full-day family beach experience.
Chocolate Hills, Bohol
Children find Bohol's 1,200+ symmetrical hills endlessly fascinating. The viewing platform provides sweeping views; combine with the nearby tarsier sanctuary and Loboc River cruise for a full day.
Island Hopping, El Nido or Bohol
Guided island hopping tours through dramatic limestone formations with swimming, snorkeling, and beach stops. Children delight in the crystal-clear water and marine life. Life jackets provided.
Enchanted Kingdom, Santa Rosa, Laguna
The Philippines' premier amusement park south of Manila with rides for all ages including the Anchor's Away, Space Shuttle, and Wheel of Fate. Best on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds.
Loboc River Cruise, Bohol
Floating buffet restaurant cruise along the jungle-fringed Loboc River with cultural performances by local schoolchildren. A peaceful family experience showing rural Bohol's natural beauty.
Mind Museum, BGC Manila
The Philippines' premier science and technology museum with five highly interactive galleries. Children (and adults) can explore earth science, life science, atom physics, and technology through hands-on exhibits.
Activities by Age Group
Find activities suited to your children's ages.
👶 Toddlers (0-3)
- Parks with shaded play areas
- Short, stroller-friendly walks
- Swimming pools at family hotels
- Animal encounters
🧒 Young Kids (4-7)
- Interactive museums
- Easy outdoor adventures
- Cultural shows and performances
- Market explorations
🧑 Older Kids (8-12)
- Historical site tours
- Adventure activities
- Cooking classes for kids
- Nature excursions
👦 Teens (13+)
- Adventure sports
- Photography walks
- Cultural immersion experiences
- Food tours
Complete Family Travel Guide
Family itineraries, packing checklists, and activity planning tips.
Family-Friendly Accommodations
Where to stay with kids.
Shangri-La Boracay Resort & Spa
Boracay's most family-oriented luxury resort with a dedicated kids club, children's pool, babysitting services, and family suites. The private beach area is quieter and safer than the crowded main stations.
Crimson Resort & Spa Mactan, Cebu
Family-friendly beach resort on Mactan Island near Cebu Airport with a water park section, kids club, and calm lagoon pool system perfect for children. Excellent family packages.
Henann Regency Resort & Spa, Boracay
Beachfront resort on Boracay Station 2 with a massive lagoon pool system that children love, multiple restaurants, and spacious family rooms. Prime location on White Beach with excellent family facilities.
Club Paradise, Palawan
All-inclusive private island resort in Palawan offering children's activities, family packages, and a protected reef for safe snorkeling. Kids under 12 often receive special inclusions.
Discovery Shores Boracay
Boutique beach resort on Boracay Station 1 with spacious family suites, a calm beachfront, and personalized service. Quieter and more refined than mass-market resorts, appealing to families seeking relaxation.
What to Look For
- Family rooms or connecting rooms
- Swimming pool (supervised)
- Restaurant with kids' menu
- Babysitting/kids' club services
- Safe, enclosed outdoor spaces
- Proximity to attractions
Kid-Friendly Dining
Where to eat with children.
Jollibee is the Philippines' most beloved fast food chain and children's absolute favorite — Chickenjoy, rice meals, and the Jolly Kiddie Meal are universally accepted by even the pickiest eaters
Filipino portions are very generous — children can share adult meals at most restaurants, reducing food costs significantly
Most restaurants happily provide high chairs, kids' menus, and coloring pages — Filipino culture adores children and restaurants will go out of their way to accommodate families
Malls (SM, Ayala, Robinsons) provide excellent air-conditioned meal options when heat becomes overwhelming — food courts offer dozens of choices ensuring even picky eaters find something
Family Travel Tips
Make traveling with kids easier.
Travel during dry season November-May for best beach weather, calm seas for island hopping, and lower risk of typhoon disruption
Book direct flights when possible — layovers in Manila's congested NAIA are stressful with children; budget extra time for all airport connections
Health & Safety
- Check recommended vaccinations for children
- Pack enough prescription medications
- Bring sun protection and stay hydrated
- Research nearest hospitals/clinics
- Get travel insurance covering the whole family
Plan Your Family Adventure
Get our complete family travel guide with kid-friendly itineraries, packing lists, and activity recommendations.
Download Family Guide