The Most Famous Sandbars in the Philippines Worth Visiting

Still not over the summer season? Check out these famous sandbars in the Philippines for the perfect adventure and Instagram feed shots!

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The Philippines is a home of natural wonders. It boasts 7,107 islands, consisting of unique geological rock formations, marvelous mountains, crystal clear beaches, and powdery white sand. Sandbars, of course, is one of many places that most tourists want to visit.

What is a Sandbar?

A sandbar is a narrow, elongated ridge or shoal of sand that forms in shallow water. It can emerge either above or just below the surface of the water, depending on the tide and wave action.

Natural habitat for marine and bird species

They play important ecological roles, providing habitat for various marine and bird species, while also serving as popular destinations for recreational activities such as swimming and sunbathing.

Sandbars are dynamic features that are constantly changing due to the forces of nature, making them fascinating and ever-evolving components of coastal landscapes.

Looking for the most suitable sandbar for you might be hard as there is a wide selection of it, but do not worry because here is a list of the most famous sandbars worth visiting on your next trip to the Philippines:  

Must-Visit Sand Bars in the Philippines

Visit the uninhabited White Island of Camiguin  

One of the most famous sandbar destinations and hidden gem in the Philippines is the White Island in Camiguin. It is a horseshoe-shaped sandbar that is 1 kilometer off the northern coast of Mambajao.

Do not expect shelter or accommodations

This place is uninhabited – no single plant, tree, hut, floating cottages, or a beach resort that can give you a temporary shed and accommodation. It is devoid of any permanent structures that simply rise above the middle of seawater. You can only rent colorful summer umbrellas if you plan to stay an hour longer.

Plan your visit if you want to avoid the crowds

The sandbar is usually crowded during holidays as it is one of the sought-after tourist spots in the region, so you might want to plan your tour during weekdays, especially if you want to take professional photoshoots in the vast rippling sandbar.

Postcard-perfect backdrops on one of the stunning sandbars in the Philippines

Visiting this place can give you a panoramic view of the stunning Mt. Vulcan and Mt. Hibok-Hibok. Take plenty of pictures as it can provide you with a postcard-perfect backdrop.

As white as its name, the sand is what captures the heart of its visitors. It is dubbed The Naked Temptress of Camiguin, after all.  

Fly a drone on a bird-shaped sandbar of Kalanggaman Island

If you have a vacation house and lot in Leyte, you might consider visiting an amusingly shaped sandbar like a flying bird. The sandbar gained its name from the local dialect called “langgam,” which translates to “bird.”

Like a bird’s wings flapping

The two ends of the sandbar look like a bird’s wings flapping, which, when measured, stretches up to 795 meters. This sandbar draws many tourists around the world and has always been the top natural attraction of Leyte.

There are tents and cottages for rent in this white sand beach when visiting the island, so you can either have a day tour or stay overnight.

Unlike other sandbars, the place is also ideal for swimming, where you can unleash your scuba diving skills. One of the local secrets, which is still unknown to many, is where the true beauty of this sandbar lies.

Home to a rich marine life

This star-studded place is not only stunning because of its facade composed of tall palm trees and coconut trees but also because of the hidden gems that can be found underwater. The island where the sandbar stood is a marine sanctuary, home of a variety of marine life.

Stop by during the dry season (March to May) with your friends, and this place will surely leave you in awe.  

Dive into the emerald green waters of the Vanishing Island 

Located in Davao del Norte, the Vanishing Island can be easily found at a distance. This place is quieter and more peaceful than other sandbars as it is not hoarded by wanderers.

One of the best diving destinations in Davao

It is not as long or as big as any different sandbar, but it is considered the top diving destination in Davao. For scuba divers, this place is a paradise surrounded by emerald green waters.

The sandbar either completely vanishes during high tide or goes up to the visitor’s ankles. Sometimes, a fish pool can be found in the sandbar when the water rises. 

Nonetheless, the island is full of seagrasses, colorful fishes, and vibrant reefs. It is only a few minutes boat ride away from the city. You may rent a cottage if you want to stay much longer.

Explore the beauty of the Virgin Islands in Bohol 

Dubbed the “Hidden Oasis of Bohol,” the Virgin Island is a crowd’s favorite around the country. It is a long stretch of fine powder white sand where no single person lives.

It is only composed of swaying trees, aqua blue waters, and powdery white sand. Furthermore, the island is unpopulated, clean, and quiet.

They offer fresh seafood that can satisfy your unique palate. It is a must to drop by this sandbar and appreciate its sheer beauty when you visit the province of Bohol. You can still explore other natural attractions such as Chocolate Hills!

Stop by the Bulubadiangan Island in Iloilo 

A distinct sandbar that almost grazes the next island can be found in Concepcion, Iloilo. This picturesque sandbar has tempting blue waters and a private resort where you can stay upon visiting. The place also offers an unobstructed broad view of Mt. Manaphag.

Even though it is vast, the sandbar is too small to be fully roamed within an hour. It is only 200 meters long, but it is still worth including in your itinerary list. 

Rent a stilted hut in Higatangan Shifting Sandbar  

Meet dolphins and sea turtles along the way

A peculiar shifting sandbar of Higatangan boasts 200-meter white sand that curves into the tip. It is known for its unique ability to change its shape depending on the direction of the monsoon winds.

There is no source of natural shade throughout the sandbar, but there are stilted huts you can rent. The peak of Mt. Panama can be seen from the sandbar.

There is a high chance you will encounter a pack of dolphins and meet sea turtles along the way, which adds to the memorable experience that the island could give.

Ride an outrigger boat before the sunrise so that you can witness its glorious first light! The place is also a couple’s favorite, so it is more likely that you will get to see couples taking prenup photoshoots nearby. 

Witness an egg yolk-like islet of Corangon Shoal  

A sandbar reselling a sunny side up egg!

An egg-yolk islet with unusual beige-colored sand is frequented by a tourist visiting the rich province of Albay. This sand bar resembles a sunny-side-up egg as its center is drier than those around it. It is not as fine or as soft as other sandbars, so make sure you wear a pair of slippers.

It is composed of crushed corals with no rock formation or trees. However, the place can provide a 360-degree view of three stratovolcanoes from a seascape. It is a perfect viewpoint to admire the majestic beauty of skies, sea, and mountains.

Invite your friends to Sumilon Island Sandbar

The sandbar constantly changes its shape and location

Hop onto that outrigger boat with your friends and sail to the Sumilon Island! Located on the southeast coast of Cebu, this sandbar constantly changes its shape and location.

Depending on what season you choose to visit, the sandbar will continuously vary its form. Include this into your itinerary as it can give you an extraordinary memory with friends and family.

Scuba diving and snorkeling is the tourists’ favorite water sport activity, but other who are not professional swimmers just go sunbathing while enjoying the view..  

Delve into the beauty of Manjuyod Sandbar  

Known as the Maldives of the Philippines

The Manjuyod White Sandbar in Negros Oriental, also known as “The Maldives of the Philippines,” has an uncanny quality to the famous honeymoon spot in the world.

Same with the world-renowned beach of Maldives, the Manjuyod White Sandbar has pristine blue waters that sparkle through the tropical sun’s rays. Its sandbar is long and wide, which also wholly disappears during the high tide.

Guests can swim in its blue waters and watch dolphins. It is recommended that tourists will visit first thing in the morning so they can see the visible shoreline.

Take a 15-minute motorized boat ride from Bais port, and you will get to have a chance at the mini-like Maldives.  

Reignite your adrenaline rush on Malalison Island  

A small fishing community on Panay Island homes one of the milkiest sandbars in the country. It is a 100-meter sandbar that gives a  clear view of Mt. Madjaas. Interestingly, there are people living on the island permanently.

There is a rolling hill where you can trek, a pebble beach on one side of the island, and a safe swimming spot to witness a teeming marine life.

Of course, you still have to rent a boat if you want to visit this island, but you can share the boat fee with other passengers if you are a solo traveler or you are only with your partner.

Make sure to leave no garbages or plastic bottles. Even though it is an island less visited, it is still a natural attraction that needs to be protected. 

Be surrounded by thick foliage on the Snake Island

Formerly known as the Vigan Island in El Nido, Palawan

One of the unique but beautiful sandbars that you could ever visit in the Philippines is located in El Nido, Palawan. It was formerly known as the Vigan Island, but locals later changed its name to Snake Island.

You might think that it is quite dangerous to visit this sandbar as its name bears the name of venomous reptiles in the world, but it is not actually the case. The truth is, this is an s-shaped sandbar.

The reason why it is called “Snake Island” is because it resembles the figure of a snake. It is an epic spot where you can fly your drone and capture the island’s seamless beauty from an aerial view.

The sandbar connects the mainland to another island which makes it look like a connecting bridge. You can walk back and forth through it, but it will not be an easy task for you to accomplish.

Although the sandbar has fine white sand, there are still some crashed corals and pebbles that can hurt your feet. Make sure to bring a pair of water shoes to protect your feet.

Once in El Nido, you can also have a side trip to explore the amazing mangrove trees near the area. This slice of paradise is a must-visit when you find yourself lurking around the island of El Nido.

Dive into the beauty of Manlawi Island

A destination for sunbathing, relaxation, and eco tours

Manlawi Sandbar is a natural wonder that mesmerizes visitors with its pristine beauty and tranquil atmosphere. Emerging during low tide, this beautiful sandbar stretches across the turquoise waters of Mañlawi Bay.

This tourist attraction is not just a destination for sunbathing and relaxation. Visitors can indulge in a variety of water sports such as swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking in the crystal-clear waters surrounding the sandbar.

Additionally, nearby mangrove trees in forests and marine sanctuaries provide opportunities for eco-tours and birdwatching.

Visit the Naked Island in Surigao del Norte

Be awed by the untouched beauty of the island

Renowned for its pristine beauty and crystal-clear waters, Naked Island is a popular stop for island-hopping tours in Surigao Del Norte.

The island is essentially a long stretch of powdery white sand surrounded by azure waters, offering visitors panoramic views of the sea and sky.

Despite its lack of vegetation or shade, Naked Island’s remote and untouched beauty captivates visitors, making it an idyllic spot for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling.

Buntod Reef Marine Sanctuary and Sandbar

A vital conservation area for marine life

The Buntod Reef Marine Sanctuary and Sandbar is a haven of natural beauty and biodiversity. The highlight of the Buntod Reef Marine Sanctuary is its stunning sandbar.

Visitors can stroll along the sandbar, soak up the sun, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding sea and sky. It is a perfect spot for swimming, snorkeling, and picnicking, offering opportunities to immerse oneself in the beauty of nature.

Beyond its natural beauty, the Buntod Reef Marine Sanctuary also serves as a vital conservation area, dedicated to preserving and protecting the marine ecosystem.

Through initiatives such as coral reef rehabilitation and marine life monitoring, the sanctuary strives to safeguard its precious natural resources for future generations to enjoy.

There is a long list of islands with sandbars in the Philippines that are worth exploring like Seco island, Sta. Cruz Island, Cresta de Gallo Island, Panampangan Island, and Maniwaya Island.

Live Near Sandbars and Natural Tourist Attractions  

Owning a house and lot in the province is truly a blessing, offering a refreshing breeze and a peaceful atmosphere that can enhance our well-being.

Finding a strategically located property near essential amenities and popular tourist attractions may be a challenge, but not with Camella.

With numerous developments of Camella situated near pristine beaches, majestic mountains, and enchanting sandbars, you will discover the perfect blend of convenience and natural beauty. Experience the charm of provincial living in Camella!