Best Luxury Resorts in the Philippines: Paradise Redefined
The Philippines is a tropical dreamscape of more than 7,000 islands scattered across crystal-clear waters and ringed with white sand beaches, coral…
The Philippines is a tropical dreamscape of more than 7,000 islands scattered across crystal-clear waters and ringed with white sand beaches, coral reefs, and lush jungles.
While budget travel thrives here, the country is also home to some of the best luxury resorts in the world, making it a must-visit destination for high-end travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
From private plunge pools tucked into forested hills to infinity pools with uninterrupted sea views, and from private island getaways to 5-star accommodations in bustling cities like Makati, this guide showcases the best places to indulge in the world-class service, modern amenities, and natural beauty the Philippines has to offer.
Why Choose the Philippines for a Luxury Getaway?
The Philippines is often included on Condé Nast Traveler’s list of the world’s best islands—and for good reason. Travelers find the perfect balance of pristine beaches, crystal-clear turquoise water, and untouched natural settings complemented by the comforts of 5-star resorts, private villas, and inclusive luxury resorts.
Whether you want to relax in a private pool with views of the Sulu Sea, sip champagne under the stars, or snorkel through some of the most incredible diving spots in Southeast Asia, the Philippines delivers.
High season typically falls between December and May, offering travelers the best weather for beach escapes, while low season provides fewer crowds and lower prices at even the most exclusive properties.
Top Island Destinations for Luxury Resorts
1. Pamalican Island – Home to Amanpulo Resort
A private island resort in the middle of the Sulu Sea, Amanpulo Resort is one of the most secluded and luxurious getaways in Asia. With its white-sand beaches, private casitas, and floor-to-ceiling windows looking out onto the water, this resort redefines opulence.
Each villa comes with a private plunge pool, direct beach access, and your butler. Activities include scuba diving, tennis courts, and even yacht charters for a day on the open water.
2. El Nido, Palawan – Lush, Remote, and Breathtaking
Palawan’s dramatic limestone cliffs, lush greenery, and hidden coves are the setting for several iconic resorts:
- El Nido Resorts Lagen Island – Set in a cove with sea-view accommodations and natural materials, this eco-resort is ideal for honeymooners and those wanting to unplug.
- El Nido Resorts Apulit Island – Offers water cottages perfect for scuba divers and ocean lovers, located near thriving coral reefs.
- Cauayan Island Resort – Blends modern amenities with a tropical island vibe. Its private villas and swimming pools overlook turquoise waters.
El Nido Airport allows for easy access, and private transfers are often arranged by resorts.
3. Siargao Island – For Surfing and Solitude
Once a hidden gem, Siargao now offers stylish boutique hotels and luxury accommodations, such as Nay Palad Hideaway, a tranquil retreat featuring private pools, beachside dining, and an immersive jungle-meets-ocean atmosphere.
4. Bohol & Panglao Island – Family-Friendly Luxury
Head to the southernmost tip of Bohol for Eskaya Beach Resort & Spa, where you’ll find deluxe rooms, private plunge pools, and lush tropical gardens. This is also one of the best places for families seeking to combine beach relaxation with gentle adventure.
The Best Luxury Beach Resorts with Private Pools
5. Shangri-La’s Boracay Resort and Spa
This 5-star resort offers infinity pools, private villas, and access to a secluded stretch of white sand beach. As one of the most popular resorts in Boracay, it attracts couples, celebrities, and families alike.
Features include:
- Jet skis and paddleboards for active guests
- Full-service spa
- Sea-view guest rooms with flat-screen TVs and floor-to-ceiling windows
6. Misibis Bay Resort – Albay
Located on the Pacific-facing side of Luzon, this luxurious hideaway features beachfront villas, a swimming pool with ocean views, and adventure tours ranging from ATV rides to scuba diving.
7. Atmosphere Resorts – Negros Oriental
This is a favorite among divers, yogis, and wellness seekers. Nestled along the coast, it’s surrounded by lush greenery and offers inclusive luxury resort packages with spa treatments, healthy cuisine, and guided dives.
8. Overwater Villas, Private Casitas, and Dreamy Sea-View Rooms
Looking for honeymoon resorts or a special occasion getaway? These properties offer unforgettable rooms:
- Banwa Private Island – The pinnacle of exclusivity. Accommodates only a few guests at a time on its private island.
- Tugawe Cove Resort – Located in Caramoan, with cliffside accommodations, a glass elevator, and panoramic sea views.
- Cauayan Resort – Overwater and beachfront private villas offer modern amenities with touches of local materials.
Rooms in these resorts often come with:
- Flat-screen TVs
- Private pools or infinity pools
- Butler service
- Access to coral reefs and white sands
The Most Exclusive Private Island Resorts in the Philippines
If privacy, seclusion, and personalized service are your top priorities, the Philippines’ private island resorts offer experiences unlike anywhere else. Think ultra-luxurious accommodations, stunning coral reefs, and high-end water sports — all with virtually no one else around. These exclusive properties are perfect for celebrities, honeymooners, and travelers who want the ultimate escape.
9. Amanpulo Resort – Pamalican Island
Amanpulo, one of the most famous names in luxury resorts, is located on Pamalican Island, a pristine stretch of paradise in the Sulu Sea. Accessible by private charter — just an hour’s flight southwest of Manila — this private island resort redefines barefoot luxury.
Each of the private casitas and villas is surrounded by lush greenery, steps from the turquoise water. Highlights include:
- Private plunge pools and sea-view accommodations
- Butler service and chef-prepared meals
- Private beach dinners and yoga on the sand
- Access to some of the country’s incredible diving spots
It’s a favorite among honeymooners, VIPs, and those celebrating a special occasion.
10. Banwa Private Island – Palawan
Among the most expensive private island resorts in the world, Banwa Private Island offers a hyper-exclusive experience for those seeking total isolation and unmatched luxury.
Features include:
- Only six beachfront villas, each with a private pool
- A full-service team, including personal butlers, chefs, and spa therapists
- Access to a helipad and a seaplane
- Scuba diving, tennis, paddleboarding, and more on demand
While not for the faint of budget, Banwa is undeniably one of the best places for those seeking an elite, off-grid paradise.
11. Pearl Farm Beach Resort – Samal Island, Davao
A perfect mix of natural materials, Mindanao culture, and high-end amenities, Pearl Farm is a hidden gem. The resort features stilted villas over calm blue waters, giving off classic overwater bungalow vibes.
Guests love:
- Infinity pools with views of Manila Bay
- Watersports like jet skis, kayaking, and paddleboarding
- Cultural shows and island-hopping tours
- Locally inspired decor made from wood, bamboo, and woven textiles
Despite its remote feel, the resort offers easy access from Davao City via speedboat.
12. Best Urban Luxury Hotels in Manila and Beyond
While many travelers head straight to the islands, Metro Manila has its fair share of 5-star resorts and luxurious hotels that offer convenience, comfort, and high-end service, perfect for business travelers or as a jumping-off point for island adventures.
13. Raffles Makati – In the Heart of Makati
Located in the heart of Makati, Manila’s financial and shopping district, Raffles Makati combines timeless elegance with modern comforts.
Key features:
- Guest rooms and deluxe rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows
- Butlers, fine dining, and personalized attention
- Walking distance to Greenbelt and Ayala Malls
- Ideal for travelers seeking luxury in the city
14. The Peninsula Manila – Makati
A mainstay in the city’s star hotels lineup, The Peninsula Manila offers old-world glamour blended with sleek upgrades.
Why travelers love it:
- Elegant guest rooms with city or Manila Bay views
- An iconic lobby perfect for afternoon tea
- A full spa, fitness center, and swimming pools
Perfect for couples enjoying a stopover or business travelers who want world-class service between meetings.
15. Grand Hyatt Manila – Bonifacio Global City
Situated in the vibrant heart of Bonifacio Global City (BGC), the Grand Hyatt Manila towers above with modern opulence.
Standout perks:
- Panoramic city views from one of the tallest buildings in the Philippines
- Lavish guest rooms with luxury touches
- Rooftop bars and fine-dining restaurants
- Near nightlife, luxury boutiques, and art galleries
Resorts for Honeymoons, Wellness, and Special Occasions
Looking to plan your honeymoon or celebrate a special occasion in the tropics? These resorts provide romantic settings, inclusive luxury resort packages, and elevated wellness experiences to make every moment unforgettable.
16. The Farm at San Benito – Lipa, Batangas
A serene sanctuary just two hours from Manila, The Farm at San Benito offers luxury with a wellness focus. Surrounded by mountains and lush greenery, this resort is ideal for detox retreats, couples’ getaways, and yoga escapes.
You’ll enjoy:
- Organic vegan cuisine
- Spa therapies and holistic wellness consultations
- Forest suites and tranquil private villas
- Meditation areas, reflexology pathways, and natural pools
17. Discovery Shores Boracay
A modern gem along Boracay’s famed white sand beaches, Discovery Shores is known for impeccable service and romantic touches. Its beachfront suites are made for honeymooners, complete with private plunge pools and oceanfront decks.
You can expect:
- Sunset cocktails at the rooftop bar
- Water activities like snorkeling and parasailing
- Spa treatments for couples
- Easy access to nightlife, but tucked far enough for tranquility
18. Eskaya Beach Resort & Spa – Panglao Island
With just a few villas, this resort is one of the best places for privacy and pampering in Bohol. It’s perfect for romantic escapes and honeymoons.
Guests love:
- Secluded private beaches
- Spa treatments with ocean views
- Local Boholano cuisine
- Sea-view accommodations and private pools
Adventure & Water Sports at High-End Resorts
Luxury in the Philippines isn’t just about relaxing — many of the best resorts offer water sports, eco-adventures, and diving experiences that rival anywhere in the world.
19. El Nido Resorts Apulit & Lagen Island
Ideal for the adventurous, these private island eco-resorts offer a wide range of activities:
- Scuba diving and snorkeling in protected marine sanctuaries
- Kayaking through limestone coves
- Rock climbing and rappelling
- Cultural visits to nearby fishing villages
Sustainability in Philippine Luxury Hospitality
As more travelers consider their carbon footprint and prioritize ethical travel, many luxurious hotels in the Philippines are embracing sustainable practices without sacrificing comfort or style. These eco-forward 5-star resorts are setting the standard for inclusive luxury resorts that care for the environment, local communities, and cultural heritage.
Eco-conscious Architecture and Natural Materials
Many high-end resorts have turned to natural materials, such as bamboo, driftwood, rattan, and local stone, to create a low-impact, harmonious aesthetic. Resorts like El Nido Resorts Apulit Island and Lagen Island are leaders in this space, carefully designing structures to blend with the surrounding environment.
Key sustainable design features:
- Solar power and rainwater catchment systems
- Structures elevated on stilts to protect delicate ecosystems
- Waste reduction through glass bottles and water refilling stations
- Locally sourced building materials and labor
Marine Conservation and Coral Protection
The Philippines is home to over 500 species of coral and some of the world’s richest marine biodiversity. Luxury resorts like Cauayan Island Resort, Atmosphere Resorts, and Amanpulo Resort actively protect these ecosystems by:
- Creating marine sanctuaries with no-fishing zones
- Offering guided scuba diving and snorkeling tours led by marine biologists
- Partnering with NGOs to restore coral reefs and educate guests
- Banning single-use plastics and enforcing reef-safe sunscreen policies
Supporting Local Communities
Luxury should lift everyone, not just the guests. Many resorts are deeply involved in the communities around them:
- Nay Palad Hideaway funds local schools and hires almost entirely from Siargao Island
- Discovery Shores supports Boracay beach cleanups and offers internships to local hospitality students
- Banwa Private Island sources ingredients from nearby farmers and fishermen
Guests looking to make their stay more meaningful can opt for voluntourism activities, from mangrove planting to cultural immersion workshops.
Final Recap: How to Choose the Perfect Philippine Luxury Resort
With so many exceptional options, selecting the best resorts in the Philippines comes down to your travel style, goals, and priorities. Here’s a recap of your top choices by travel type:
🏝️ For Ultimate Privacy and Exclusivity
- Amanpulo Resort – Pamalican Island
- Banwa Private Island – Palawan
- Pearl Farm Beach Resort – Davao
Why go: Remote, personalized service, private pools, and your private island vibes.
🌿 For Sustainable, Nature-Based Escapes
- El Nido Resorts Lagen Island & Apulit Island
- Cauayan Island Resort – El Nido
- The Farm at San Benito – Batangas
Why go: Eco-luxury, sustainability, yoga, wellness, and marine life.
🌊 For Water Activities and Adventure
- Misibis Bay Resort – Albay
- Atmosphere Resorts – Negros Oriental
- Tugawe Cove Resort – Caramoan
Why go: Jet skis, scuba diving, cliff jumping, surfing, and eco-tours.
💕 For Honeymoons and Romantic Getaways
- Eskaya Beach Resort & Spa – Panglao
- Shangri-La’s Boracay Resort – Boracay
- Discovery Shores – Boracay
Why go: Private plunge pools, candlelit dinners, white-sand beaches, and spa pampering.
🏙️ For Luxury in the City
- Raffles Makati – Heart of Makati
- The Peninsula Manila – Makati
- Grand Hyatt – Bonifacio Global City
Why go: Proximity to restaurants, malls, culture, business travelers’ perks, and spa relaxation before flying out.
Final Thoughts: Why Philippine Luxury Resorts Stand Out
The Philippines isn’t just one of the world’s best island destinations — it’s a country that masterfully blends untamed natural beauty with the indulgence of 5-star resorts, deluxe rooms, and world-class service. Whether you’re dreaming of a honeymoon resort with a private plunge pool, a scuba diving escape in Negros Oriental, or a private island with a personal butler, the Philippines has a perfect option for you.
With easy access from major international airports like Manila and Cebu, and new connections opening to El Nido Airport, luxury here doesn’t come with hassle — just turquoise waters, tropical gardens, and a perfect place to unwind.
So whether you’re planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip or looking for a new favorite getaway, let the Philippines’ best resorts take your breath away.
📧 Bonus Travel Tip:
When booking your stay, be sure to confirm special inclusions directly via the resort’s email address or verified website. Many properties offer complimentary airport transfers, excursions, or wellness packages when you book directly.
