Out of the 7,604 islands that make up the Philippines, our country has more beautiful and exotic beaches than we could see in our lifetime. In fact, even if we travel to 3-4 islands a month for 100 years, we’d barely hit all of them. Which is why no matter how many times you’ve been back to visit the motherland, there’s always more to discover and fall in love with. It’s no wonder why certain Philippine Islands have been voted among the world’s best in the Conde Nast Traveler (CNT) Readers’ Choice Awards for almost 35 years in a row.

But now, let’s just say on your next visit back, you want to go BIG, splurge a little, if you will, and spare no expense staying at the most luxurious hotels with the most pristine views, topped off with the best service that our homeland has to offer. Well, you’re in luck today because we’ve rounded the most awarded and coveted hotels, where all the rich and famous stay, (or where the “artistas” and “ang mayayaman”, rather!)

1. Amanpulo | Pamalican Island, Palawan

Just a 70 minute jumper flight from Manila, the Amanpulo sits pretty on its own private island of Pamalican Island, also known as Pamalikan- a small and sandy island of the Cuyo Islands nestled in the Sulu Sea, between Palawan and Panay, situated in the north part of the Palawan Province of the Philippines.

Photo Courtesy of Amanpulo, Aman Resorts

Upon checking into this private resort, a hospitality entourage led by your own personal butler, chef, and maid will welcome you, and is at the ready to provide you with five-star services from the moment you touch down until the moment you leave the property. With just a phone call or quick conversation with your personal butler, you can have whipped up a spa day, a private picnic in a nearby secluded cove, a sunset cruise, an island-hopping getaway or a tour of the UNESCO protected Puerto-Princesa Subterranean River National Park in just a few minutes.

Uber-luxe, super secluded and paparazzi-free, global celebs like Brad Pitt, Mariah Carey, Tom Cruise, Robert de Niro, and Beyonce all have enjoyed the grounds and amenities at Amanpulo’s 42 Casitas and 18 Villas, designed by the acclaimed Filipino architect Francisco Mañosa.

One of the super VIP things about the Amanpulo is that it has its own private runway (for an added fee but well worth it for getting to the island quicker). A round-trip turboprop flight from Manila, operated by Island Aviation, to the resort's Pamalican Island costs around $500 US per person.

The combination of seclusion, personalized pools, direct beach access, luxurious interiors, and dedicated Villa Hosts makes the private villas at Amanpulo Resort the epitome of first class. It's an experience that allows you to enjoy the beauty of the island, the exclusivity of your own villa, and the impeccable service that Amanpulo is renowned for. By the way, each private villa comes with its own generously sized swimming pool. These pools offer a serene and tranquil space where you can relax, unwind, and enjoy refreshing dips at any time of the day, with no one else around. And if the beach is more your vibe, each villa also has direct access to your own side of the private beach.

While Amanpulo Resort itself is primarily focused on providing a super private retreat sans the hustle and bustle of common tourism, there are some sightseeing activities you can add to your agenda if you’re a history or cultural buff, like the 17th century Taytay Fort, the Palawan Museum and Batak Cultural Village.

Nightly rates at the Amanpulo will run you roughly $1,700 a night, at the time of publication. (The rates for hotels can vary depending on factors such as the room type, availability, seasonal demand, and any ongoing promotions. To obtain the most accurate and up-to-date information on the average nightly rate, visit the Amanpulot website here).

2. Nay Palad Hideaway | Siargao Island (formerly Dedon Island Resort)

Siargao has become more popular in the last few years, thanks to surfers and lifestyle bloggers who have come to appreciate and share their adventures on the very IG-worthy island. More than its warm locals and provincial vibe, there lies an exclusive and somewhat “untouched” island fit for honeymooners, soul-searchers, and families alike. And the perfect way to luxuriate in Siargao’s paradise? The sustainable and beautifully bohemian Nay Palad Hideaway (that just underwent a massive remodel after being wiped away by Typhoon Odette a few years back).

Nay Palad Hideaway’s graciously appointed villas are what vacation dreams are made of: private pools, private beach access, both indoor/outdoor showers and multi-level suites (so you can take the whole family but not have rooms right next to each other). Tack on the on-demand concierge team and you’ll have the island’s best activities at your fingertips: surfing world-renowned Cloud9, kayaking through the mangroves, an island hop to Pansukian (a 200 meter sandbar that’s perfect for private picnics), a day trip to Sugba Lagoon or the Magpupungko Rock Pools.

And for those of you who love the idea of the ultimate barefoot luxury but insist on an eco-friendly getaway, you’ll be happy to know that Nay Palad Hideway is dedicated to sustainable practices and environmental conservation (it is sandwiched between two distinct marine ecosystems). The resort was ideated and built with a deep commitment to preserving the natural beauty of Siargao. From utilizing environmentally friendly materials in construction to implementing renewable energy sources, the resort strives to minimize its ecological footprint every step of the way. By staying at Nay Salad Hideaway, you are supporting a responsible and sustainable approach to tourism in the Philippines.

One of our favorite features, Nay Palad Hideaway boasts a unique area known as "The Healing Forest." This tranquil area in the heart of the resort's grounds is dedicated to promoting wellness and rejuvenation. Guests can take leisurely strolls along lush pathways, enjoy zen moments of meditation in secluded spots, or simply immerse themselves in the soothing ambiance of nature. The Healing Forest offers a serene sanctuary for introspection and finding harmony with the surrounding environment.

Villa rates are charged per person per day (all-inclusive, but far from what us westerners expect from the term “all-inclusive”) depending on which villa you would like to book. Pricing varies depending on season and occupancy but ranges from $800-$1500 per person per day.

3. Island Buenavista Resort | Samal Island, Davao

Photo Courtesy of Island Buenavista Resort

The Island Buenavista Resort is a luxurious and exclusive beachfront retreat located on Samal Island, just a short hop from Davao City in the southern Philippines. Located amidst pristine white sands, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical landscapes, this resort offers a serene and idyllic escape for travelers seeking tranquility and natural beauty (who isn’t these days, though?).

One of the most beautiful and unique features of The Island Buenavista Resort is its own underwater marine sanctuary. This protected area ensures the preservation of the rich marine biodiversity found in the surrounding waters. Guests have the opportunity to explore and discover the vibrant coral reefs and marine life through snorkeling or scuba diving. This unique feature sets the resort apart and allows for an immersive experience in the unadulterated waters surrounding the island.

The Resort also offers a range of activities and excursions, from private yacht charters to helicopter tours, ensuring you can explore the natural wonders of the region in absolute luxury and style. If you’re interested in local sight seeing in nearby Davao City. Visit the Museo Dabawenyo, which showcases the history, art, and culture of the Davao region; Davao Museum of History and Ethnography and the People’s Park. You can also explore the San Pedro Cathedral, one of the oldest churches in the city, and pay a visit to the Davao Chinatown, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant local Chinese community.

Per night rates are roughly around $3,000 US per night, but allow up to 10 people to stay in the various villas for that price. Day only rates are available as well.

4. Shangri La | Boracay

Shangri-La's Boracay Resort and Spa is a luxurious beachfront property nestled in a secluded cove on Boracay Island. While the Shangri La Boracay is far from the action of the other stations, it is indeed, a place unto itself. The resort is situated on a private and secluded stretch of Punta Bunga Beach, offering guests a serene and tranquil atmosphere. The location provides breathtaking views of the beach, azure waters, and stunning sunsets, creating a true tropical paradise far away from the hustle and bustle of the three stations where most of the islands other hotels are situated, perfect for a romantic getaway.

Shangri-La's Boracay features a range of luxurious accommodations, including spacious rooms, suites, and villas, and babysitters, and of course personal butlers that can handle concierge like duties like on the spot IT help and travel arrangements. Additionally, each room or villa is elegantly designed with a blend of contemporary style and traditional Filipino touches. The accommodations are equipped with modern amenities, private balconies or terraces, and some even offer direct access to the beach or have private plunge pools.

Aside from being near many famed and pristine beaches, Shangri La also has 2 private beaches that are part of the resort exclusively: Punta Bunga and Banyuga Beach. They’re completely further from all the public areas and nearly impossible to access from outside of the resort. While this exclusivity and privacy means that the resort is further from White Beach and that main stations of the Island– Boracay’s center where most restaurants, bars and hotels are located, the resort has free shuttle service dedicated to bring guests back and forth from the city center just about any time they want.

Whether it's the refined accommodations, impeccable service, exceptional dining options, or wellness experiences, the resort strives to provide guests with a memorable and luxurious stay that goes beyond the beauty of nature alone- the hotel has proven to be world class through and through. Nightly rates range from $400-$1200 depending on the room and villa and seasonal fluctuations.

5. Balesin Island Club | Polilo, Quezon Province

Balesin is a 500-hectare island located just a 20 minute private flight from Manila located on the eastern coast of Luzon in the Philippines. It is by invite-only and requires a monthly membership fee but offers you a glimpse into the rest of the world. Yes, it true, but how? This mega fancy resort offers luxurious villas and amenities patterned after some of the most alluring destinations around the world. With a main clubhouse and a state-of-the-art wellness facility as the centerpiece, Balesin has seven uniquely styled villages, each offering the sights and sounds of global destinations: Mykonos, Toscana, Costa del Sol, St. Tropez, Phuket, Bali, and Balesin. In each village, everything from the architecture, interior design, landscaping, and food is authentically recreated to give each village its own vibe and experience (each village as its own 3-4 restaurants!).

Balesin Island Club is also home to the M/Y “Obsessions” superyacht for the charter use of its members and guests. The yacht was brought from Piraeus, Greece where it regularly sailed to the famous Greek islands of Mykonos, Santorini, Hydra, Patmos, Symi and many others. The yacht is often chartered for full-day trips to the surrounding Polillo Island group, as well as for sunset cruises around the island, dinners, and photo shoots. Notably, the interior was designed by a world-famous Italian designer and is fully outfitted with Versace furniture and furnishings. Now how’s that for impressing your titas?

Additionally, Balesin is the first and only Philippine resort awarded by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) for innovative tourism and sustainability. Their “Three Pillar Innovation” initiative—technological innovation, sustainable consumption and community empowerment—serves as the foundation for a socially and environmentally responsible approach to complete island operations.

With themed villas and suites to choose from, Balesin is yours for gallivanting for $50K US or P3 million lifetime membership fee where VIPs can enjoy 9-14 nights and stay at any of their seven villas. Need longer? There is a $100K membership for those who would like a 28 day allotment. All memberships require a monthly dues that range on intended usage. While many people have visited the island that do not hold memberships, they are usually invited guests for a wedding or special event of a member. So whether you’re a member or not, its nice to know that just by visiting this island, you’re a VIP.

6. Banwa Private Island

And finally, if the above options are just too shabby for you because you extra extra fancy, then may we recommend your own private island. Look no further than Banwa.

Nothing says EXTRA than the exclusive charter of your own private island, where the entire property becomes yours to enjoy as the island does not book any other guests during your stay. With a total capacity of 22 guests, Banwa provides a range of private villa accommodations perfectly suited for couples and families alike. Did we mention the quick heli transfers from nearby Puerto Princesa airport that make for a Very VIP guest arrival experience on the lush Banwa Lawns, after a 1-hour flight from Manila?

Banwa Island’s extraordinary price tag includes all meals and activities among the island’s bountiful flora and wildlife. Basically: anything you want at any time of the day. Swimming, diving, jet skiing, paddle boarding off of any part of the island is available to all guests 24/7. Did we mention all food comes farm to table from their own on-island organic farms and is created by a culinary team led by Chef Nadedja Bowacha, formerly head chef to the Qatari royal family?

What else is included? Here are a few lux features we love: glass bottom bathrooms (yep, so can watch the marine life swimming beneath you as you do your business); personal electric trisykels for anyone who wants one, a 15 million-liter freshwater pool, one of the largest private pools in Southeast Asia; the Sky Villa’s panoramic 360 degree view of the entire island, a private helicopter to use at your whim; and finally, not one but TWO yachts in case you need to, you know, like run an errand or two to a neighboring island. In addition, there’s a manicured three par golf course, and a tournament standard tennis court unlike any other in the world.

Touted as the most expensive private island in the world with a price tag of anywhere between $45K- $100K US a night, Banwa Private Island is truly your very own paradise.

Written By Onelia Miller

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The 6 Most Expensive Luxury Resorts in the Philippines