How to Choose the Best Hotels in the Philippines
The Philippines is a top travel destination, famous for its breathtaking beaches, stunning islands, and lively cities. Whether you’re visiting for a relaxing vacation, a business trip, or an adventure, choosing the right hotel is key to a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
With thousands of hotels across the country, finding the perfect one can feel overwhelming. This guide will help you make the best choice by considering essential factors like location, budget, amenities, and guest reviews.
Choosing the Right Hotel: What’s Your Travel Purpose?
Before booking a hotel, consider why you’re traveling to find the best accommodation for your needs.
- Vacation: Looking for relaxation? Choose beachfront resorts or luxury hotels in top destinations like Boracay, Palawan, or Cebu.
- Business Trip: Stay close to work by booking a hotel in business hubs such as Makati, Bonifacio Global City (BGC), or Cebu City.
- Backpacking: Traveling on a budget? Opt for hostels, guesthouses, or budget hotels in popular tourist areas.
- Family Trip: Traveling with kids? Pick family-friendly hotels with pools, play areas, and kid-friendly amenities.
By choosing the right hotel, you’ll ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay!
Choose the Perfect Hotel Location for Your Trip
The location of your hotel can make or break your travel experience. Here’s how to pick the best spot:
- Near Tourist Attractions – Stay close to landmarks for easy exploration. In Manila, great options include Intramuros, Rizal Park, and Makati.
- Beachfront Hotels – Love the ocean? Choose a beachfront resort in Boracay, El Nido, or Siargao.
- City Center Hotels – For convenience, stay in the city center near restaurants, malls, and transport.
- Quiet & Relaxing Areas – Prefer peace? Opt for remote resorts in Bohol’s Panglao Island or Coron.
For hassle-free travel, check if your hotel is near airports, transport hubs, or major highways.
The Right Hotel in the Philippines: Budget, Comfort, or Luxury?
Hotels in the Philippines cater to various budgets:
- Budget Hotels & Hostels ($10-$50 per night) – Ideal for backpackers and solo travelers. Popular options: Red Planet, Z Hostel, Go Hotels.
- Mid-Range Hotels ($50-$150 per night) – Offers comfort and great amenities. Recommended: Seda Hotels, The Henry Hotel, Berjaya Makati.
- Luxury Hotels & Resorts ($150-$500+ per night) – Experience top-tier service and indulgence. Top choices: Shangri-La Boracay, The Peninsula Manila, Amanpulo.
Essential Hotel Amenities for a Comfortable Stay
When booking a hotel, consider these key amenities to enhance your experience:
- Free WiFi – Stay connected, ideal for business travelers and digital nomads.
- Swimming Pool & Spa – Perfect for relaxation and unwinding.
- Complimentary Breakfast – Saves time and money in the morning.
- Parking Availability – Essential if you have a rental car.
- Airport Transfers – Ensures a smooth and stress-free arrival.
- Fitness Center – Stay active even while traveling.
Choose a hotel with the right amenities to make your stay more enjoyable and convenient!
Check Reviews for the Best Hotel Experience
Before booking a hotel, read guest reviews to ensure a great stay. Here’s where to find reliable ratings:
- TripAdvisor – Honest reviews from global travelers.
- Google Reviews – Real guest experiences and ratings.
- Booking Sites – Platforms like Agoda & Expedia show ratings, pros, and cons.
- Social Media & YouTube – Watch video reviews for a visual insight.
Look for consistent positive feedback on cleanliness, service, and location to make the best choice!
Hotel Safety & Security
Ensuring your safety while traveling is essential. Here are key factors to consider when choosing a hotel:
- 24/7 Security – Look for hotels with security staff and CCTV surveillance.
- Safe Location – Stay in areas with low crime rates.
- In-Room Safe – Protect valuables like passports and cash.
- Fire Safety Measures – Ensure the hotel has emergency exits and safety protocols.
Prioritizing security will give you peace of mind and a worry-free stay!
Look for Promotions & Discounts
Want to cut costs on your next hotel stay? Follow these tips:
- Book Early: Secure lower rates by reserving in advance.
- Use Promo Codes: Look for discount codes on booking sites.
- Check Hotel Websites: Some hotels offer exclusive direct booking deals.
- Join Loyalty Programs: Earn rewards and future discounts.
- Travel Off-Peak: Visit between June and November for cheaper rates.
Maximize your savings with these simple strategies!
Check the Hotel’s Cancellation Policy
Before booking a hotel, check the cancellation policy to avoid surprises. Key points to consider:
- Free Cancellation – Some hotels allow cancellations within a specific timeframe at no cost.
- Refundable vs. Non-Refundable Rates – Refundable rates cost more but offer flexibility, while non-refundable rates are cheaper but locked in.
- Rebooking Options – Some hotels let you change dates for free if plans shift.
Always review the fine print to ensure a hassle-free booking experience!
Contact the Hotel for Special Requests
Before booking, reach out to the hotel for any special needs:
- Early Check-in/Late Check-out – Ideal for odd-hour flights.
- Room with a View – Request beach, city, or mountain views.
- Allergy-Friendly Rooms – Some hotels provide hypoallergenic options.
- Special Celebrations – Hotels may arrange surprises for birthdays or anniversaries.
A quick call or email ensures a more personalized stay.
10 Best Hotels in the Philippines
Searching for the perfect hotel? Here are the top 10 best hotels in the Philippines, known for their luxury, comfort, and excellent service.
Use our hotel selection guide to find the ideal stay based on location, budget, amenities, and guest reviews—making your trip stress-free and unforgettable.
1. Hotel Sogo
Hotel Sogo is a popular hotel chain in the Philippines, known for its affordable and comfortable accommodations. With multiple locations nationwide, it offers clean and well-maintained rooms equipped with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, cable TV, and 24-hour room service. Designed for both business and leisure travelers, Hotel Sogo ensures convenience, safety, and excellent service. Its commitment to customer satisfaction is reflected in its motto, “We Simply Do It Better,” with continuous improvements and special promotions. Whether you need a quick rest or an extended stay, Hotel Sogo is a trusted choice for budget-friendly and hassle-free lodging.
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2. Watergate Hotel
Watergate Hotel in Butuan City offers the perfect balance of business and leisure. Located near government offices, business hubs, and shopping centers, it provides easy access to key destinations. Guests can relax in modern, well-equipped rooms with free Wi-Fi and personal safes. The hotel also offers free parking, an in-lobby business center, airport shuttle services, and a serene pool area. Inspired by the Agusan River and Caraga Region’s natural beauty, its design creates a peaceful ambiance. With top-notch service and boutique-style amenities, Watergate Hotel guarantees a relaxing and memorable stay in Butuan City.
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3. Almont City Hotel
Almont City Hotel is a 25-room boutique hotel in the heart of Butuan City, just 15 minutes from Butuan Airport. Known for its warm hospitality, the hotel offers stylish and comfortable rooms, ensuring a relaxing stay. Guests can enjoy a variety of Asian and local dishes at the on-site City Café. The hotel’s contemporary design features a high-ceiling foyer and an al fresco courtyard garden, creating a charming ambiance. With over 30 years of excellence, Almont City Hotel remains a top choice for travelers seeking a blend of comfort, culture, and local lifestyle experiences.
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4. Fuente Hotel de Cebu
Fuente Hotel de Cebu is a top choice for travelers looking for comfort, convenience, and affordability in the heart of Cebu City. Located near the famous Fuente Osmeña Circle, the hotel offers easy access to shopping malls, restaurants, and popular attractions. Whether you’re visiting for business or leisure, you’ll enjoy well-equipped rooms, modern amenities, and excellent service. With its prime location and welcoming atmosphere, Fuente Hotel de Cebu provides a relaxing and hassle-free stay for every guest.
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5. Amanpulo – Pamalican Island, Palawan
Located on the exclusive Pamalican Island in the Cuyo Archipelago, Amanpulo is one of the most luxurious resorts in the Philippines—and the world. Part of the prestigious Aman group, this private island resort offers unmatched tranquility, five-star service, and breathtaking natural beauty.
A Private Paradise Only a Charter Flight Away
Accessible only via private charter flight, Amanpulo is the definition of a secluded paradise. Each casita or villa is crafted with native materials and designed to blend into the lush tropical surroundings. Choose from beachfront, hillside, or treetop villas, all offering privacy, sweeping views, and refined comfort. Many villas feature private pools, personal chefs, and dedicated staff, creating a truly personalized escape.
Luxury Activities in a Pristine Setting
Amanpulo offers a wide range of activities for every type of traveler. Explore vibrant coral reefs while snorkeling or scuba diving, glide across turquoise waters on a sailboard or kayak, or unwind with sunset beach walks. Ocean lovers will find the marine life here absolutely stunning.
Focus on Wellness and Relaxation
Wellness is at the heart of the Amanpulo experience. The resort’s serene spa offers holistic treatments inspired by traditional healing practices. You can also join sunrise yoga sessions at a pavilion overlooking the Sulu Sea for a rejuvenating start to your day.
World-Class Dining on the Island
Dining at Amanpulo is a culinary highlight. Menus feature fresh, locally sourced ingredients and change with the seasons. Enjoy beachfront dining, poolside snacks, or romantic dinners under the stars—all arranged by the resort’s attentive team.
Why Amanpulo Is One of the Best Hotels in the Philippines
Amanpulo is more than a resort—it’s an exclusive island experience where luxury meets nature. With world-class amenities, impeccable service, and a setting that feels like paradise, it’s no surprise Amanpulo is consistently ranked among the best hotels in the Philippines and the world.
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6. El Nido Resorts – Pangulasian Island, Palawan
Located in the protected waters of Bacuit Bay in Palawan, El Nido Resorts Pangulasian Island offers the perfect mix of eco-luxury and island adventure. Nicknamed the “Island of the Sun,” it’s famous for its stunning sunrise and sunset views, powdery white sand beach, and vibrant marine life.
Private Villas in a Tropical Paradise
The resort features 42 spacious private villas inspired by traditional Filipino design and built with locally sourced materials. Surrounded by lush forest or right on the beach, each villa offers scenic views and easy access to nature. Inside, you’ll find a cozy blend of rustic charm and modern comfort, including solar-paneled roofs, rainwater collection systems, and energy-efficient lighting.
A Leader in Sustainable Tourism
El Nido Resorts is a pioneer in sustainable travel in the Philippines. Pangulasian Island follows strict green practices such as:
- Waste segregation and composting
- Use of solar energy
- Water-saving systems
- A zero single-use plastic policy
The resort also partners with environmental groups to protect coral reefs, sea turtles, and marine sanctuaries around the island.
Eco-Friendly Activities for Nature Lovers
Guests can enjoy a variety of eco-conscious activities, including:
- Snorkeling in marine-protected areas
- Guided nature hikes
- Educational eco-tours
- Conservation talks
- Mangrove planting and reef cleanups
These activities let guests experience the island’s beauty while giving back to the environment.
Sustainable Dining Experience
Dining at Pangulasian Island is both delicious and responsible. The resort offers farm-to-table meals using fresh seafood from local fishermen and organic produce from their own garden. This supports local communities and helps reduce the environmental impact of food transport.
Why Choose El Nido Resorts Pangulasian Island?
If you’re looking for a luxury resort in the Philippines that combines comfort with a commitment to the planet, Pangulasian Island is the perfect choice. It’s not just a getaway—it’s a model for how sustainable tourism can thrive without compromising quality or experience.
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7. The Lind Boracay – Boracay Island
Nestled on the quieter end of Station 1 along Boracay’s world-famous White Beach, The Lind Boracay is a standout luxury resort known for its modern design, heartfelt Filipino hospitality, and strong commitment to sustainability.
Modern Luxury Meets Nature
This five-star resort blends contemporary architecture with the island’s natural beauty. Guests can enjoy panoramic ocean views, lush tropical gardens, and direct access to the white sand beach. The Lind features 119 stylish rooms and suites, each thoughtfully designed with natural lighting, local touches, and a relaxed island vibe.
Premium Amenities with a Purpose
Guests can unwind in the resort’s infinity pool, rejuvenate at the award-winning spa, or enjoy al fresco dining with sea views. Beyond comfort, The Lind promotes eco-conscious living through its green practices and community-focused initiatives.
Committed to Sustainability
As a leading eco-friendly hotel in Boracay, The Lind has implemented several green initiatives, such as:
- Solar-powered water heating
- Energy-efficient lighting throughout the property
- A comprehensive waste segregation and recycling program
- Elimination of single-use plastics with refillable glass bottles and eco-friendly toiletries
They also highlight local craftsmanship by using locally made furniture, décor, and artwork throughout the resort.
Eco-Friendly Activities for Conscious Travelers
The Lind Boracay invites guests to connect with the environment through meaningful, sustainable travel experiences, including:
- Beach cleanups and coral restoration projects in partnership with local NGOs
- Eco-tours that showcase marine biodiversity and local conservation efforts
- Yoga sessions on the beach using mats made from recycled materials
- Plant-based cooking classes using fresh, organic, and locally sourced ingredients
Farm-to-Table Dining
The resort’s restaurant emphasizes sustainable dining by sourcing seafood and produce from local farmers and fishermen. A wide selection of plant-based and vegetarian dishes supports both wellness and environmental consciousness.
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8. Nay Palad Hideaway – Siargao Island
Tucked away in the surfing paradise of Siargao, Nay Palad Hideaway is a luxurious eco-resort that offers barefoot elegance on one of the most laid-back and beautiful islands in the Philippines. Surrounded by lush mangroves and powdery white-sand beaches, this exclusive resort blends sustainability, community engagement, and personalized service.
Intimate Villas with a Sustainable Touch
Nay Palad features a limited number of private, handcrafted villas designed for maximum comfort and privacy. Each villa is built using eco-friendly materials such as bamboo, reclaimed wood, and palm thatch. The open-air architecture promotes natural airflow, reducing the need for air conditioning and lowering the resort’s carbon footprint.
Committed to Sustainability and Social Impact
As one of the top sustainable resorts in the Philippines, Nay Palad runs on solar power, harvests rainwater, and practices zero-waste principles through composting and recycling. The resort also supports local communities through:
- School partnerships and educational outreach
- Medical missions
- Environmental education programs for children
Unique, Eco-Friendly Guest Experiences
What sets Nay Palad apart are its curated, eco-conscious experiences designed to connect guests with nature and the local culture:
- Mangrove kayaking tours to explore and learn about marine ecosystems
- Community outreach visits, where guests can volunteer in local schools or community projects
- Organic garden walks focused on permaculture and sustainable farming
- Zero-impact island hopping with eco-friendly boats and reef-safe sunscreen
Farm-to-Table Dining
The resort’s on-site restaurant serves locally sourced cuisine, with most ingredients coming from its own organic garden. Fresh seafood is caught daily by local fishermen, supporting both the community and sustainable fishing practices.
Why Stay at Nay Palad Hideaway?
Nay Palad isn’t just a luxury retreat—it’s a destination for conscious travelers seeking to make a positive impact. Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape, a meaningful family vacation, or a mindful adventure, this eco-luxury resort in Siargao offers a truly unforgettable experience.
9. Two Seasons Coron Island Resort & Spa – Coron, Palawan
Nestled on a private island in Coron Bay, Two Seasons Coron Island Resort & Spa offers the perfect blend of luxury and environmental sustainability. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral gardens, and lush forests, this resort provides a unique gateway to discover Palawan’s untouched marine beauty.
Sustainable Eco-Luxury at Its Best
Two Seasons features 42 eco-friendly bungalows crafted from sustainable wood, equipped with solar panels, and powered by a state-of-the-art saltwater-to-freshwater desalination system. Many of the bungalows offer direct beach access, private decks, and stunning sea views—ensuring a luxurious yet environmentally-conscious stay.
Commitment to the Environment
As the first eco-luxury resort in the region to implement a 100% solar-powered sewage treatment plant, Two Seasons is dedicated to minimizing its ecological footprint. The resort also operates its own marine sanctuary and giant clam nursery, partnering with marine biologists to protect coral reefs and endangered marine species.
Eco-Friendly Activities
Guests at Two Seasons can enjoy a variety of eco-conscious activities, including:
- Snorkeling in the house reef and clam sanctuary, with opportunities to learn about reef restoration efforts.
- Eco-trekking through scenic island trails to observe native plants and wildlife.
- Kayaking and paddleboarding on eco-friendly, non-motorized watercraft.
- Marine life education programs, focusing on coral health awareness and responsible tourism practices.
Sustainable Dining
The resort’s dining experience highlights locally caught seafood and organic vegetables, ensuring a delicious yet eco-conscious menu. By seamlessly combining luxury, conservation, and community engagement, Two Seasons Coron Island Resort & Spa stands as a beacon of sustainable tourism in Palawan.
Experience the best of both worlds—luxury and sustainability—at Two Seasons Coron Island Resort & Spa.
10. Bohol Bee Farm – Panglao Island, Bohol
Bohol Bee Farm is more than just a place to stay – it’s a working organic farm, eco-resort, and community hub, all combined into one unique experience. Nestled on the scenic cliffs of Panglao Island, this eco-friendly destination offers guests rustic comfort, sustainable food, and immersive eco-experiences.
Eco-Friendly Accommodations
The resort features charming rooms made from native materials such as bamboo and nipa, creating a cozy, homegrown atmosphere. Each room offers stunning views of the ocean or lush gardens, with simple yet inviting interiors that connect guests with nature.
A Commitment to Sustainability
Bohol Bee Farm’s philosophy centers around sustainable living. The farm grows its own herbs, fruits, and vegetables without the use of chemicals, maintains a thriving beekeeping operation, and uses solar energy and water conservation systems to minimize its environmental footprint.
Unique Eco-Friendly Activities
Guests can enjoy a variety of eco-friendly activities that promote sustainability and local culture, including:
- Beekeeping Tours and Honey Tastings: Learn how local honey is produced and taste the fresh, organic honey.
- Farm-to-Table Dining Workshops: Discover the art of organic gardening and cooking with lessons from the farm’s experts.
- Crafting with Natural Materials: Participate in creative workshops like weaving and soap making using eco-friendly materials.
- Community Tours: Support local farmers and artisans while exploring the nearby community.
Farm-Fresh Dining
Bohol Bee Farm’s restaurant serves delicious meals made from ingredients harvested directly from their farm. Guests can enjoy vibrant salads, organic ice cream, and even freshly baked bread made from naturally grown grains and root crops.
Perfect for Eco-Conscious Travelers
For travelers looking to slow down, learn about sustainable farming, and support a community-driven resort model, Bohol Bee Farm is the perfect destination. It’s an unforgettable getaway that combines relaxation, learning, and a deep connection to nature.
Final Thoughts
Finding the perfect hotel in the Philippines doesn’t have to be stressful. By considering your travel purpose, budget, preferred location, and guest reviews, you can easily choose the right place to stay.
From luxurious beachfront resorts to budget-friendly hostels and convenient city hotels, the Philippines offers accommodations for every traveler.
Plan wisely, book with confidence, and enjoy a memorable stay in this beautiful country. Safe travels!
