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.
Family activities
Engaging experiences for travellers of every age.
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.
Duration: 3-4 hours
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.
Duration: Full day
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.
Duration: 2-3 hours
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.
Duration: Full day
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.
Duration: Full day
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.
Duration: 1.5-2 hours
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.
Duration: 3-4 hours
Family-friendly hotels
Accommodation designed with families in mind.
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.
Family features: Kids club (ages 4-12), dedicated children's pool, babysitting, family suites with separate bedrooms
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.
Family features: Water park, kids club, interconnected lagoon pools, family rooms, babysitting available
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.
Family features: Lagoon pool, family rooms, beachfront access, multiple dining options, tour desk
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.
Family features: All-inclusive packages, children's activities, coral reef snorkeling, family villas
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.
Family features: Spacious family suites, calm beach area, kids amenities, personalized service
Dining with kids
Eating out as a family.
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
Practical advice for stress-free family trips.
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