Top Water Activities in the Philippines | Guide to the Philippines (original) (raw)

What is a water activity tour?

A water activity tour is one of the popular things to do in the Philippines that typically involves guided excursions or outings focused on various water sports activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, diving, or sailing. Other recreational activities in water include swimming in hot and cold springs, Philippines island hopping tours and waterfalls tour.

Where are the best water activity tours in the Philippines?

Beach and island destinations like Boracay, Cebu, and Palawan are known for some aquatic activities in the Philippines. Some beach adventure activities you can try in these destinations are parasailing, surfing, paddleboarding, jet skiing, and wakeboarding. There are also uncrowded water activity destinations like Quirino, Antique, Subic, and Capiz.

Snorkeling is one of the popular water activities to try, especially in the snorkeling spots in the Philippines like Cebu where you can experience Moalboal sardine run, whale shark watching, and swimming with turtles. For surfers, Siargao is one of the best surfing spots in the Philippines. You can also dive in one of the best diving spots in the Philippines like in Anilao. In Palawan, you can try a Puerto Princesa Underground River tour and go on El Nido island hopping tours.

Is there an age limit for joining water activity tours?

There are tours that allow children as young as 8 years old, but other more extreme water activities have higher age requirements. Check the description of your chosen tours to see the age restrictions.

What are the different kinds of water activities that we can experience?

A number of island and beach destinations in the Philippines offer water activities, like swimming in hot springs or cold springs, snorkeling, and scuba diving.

You can also enjoy water activities on the beach like stand up paddleboarding or SUP, wakeboarding, parasailing, jet skiing, and surfing. Some beaches with water activities in the Philippines include Boracay, Palawan, La Union, and Siargao.

Some theme park rides and waterparks in the Philippines may also include thrilling water activities you can enjoy.

What types of water activity tours can I book in the Philippines?

There are all-inclusive Philippines vacation packages that include flights, accommodations, tours, and activities that you can book through travel agencies like Guide to the Philippines. You can choose water activities that you can do and add to your package.

Boracay and Cebu are popular destinations for water activities. There are Boracay water sports activities you can try like kayaking, paddle boarding, and parasailing. You can also try canyoneering tours and Philippines whale shark tours in Cebu.

If you’re into waterfalls, springs, and lakes, try eco tours in the Philippines, which include nature trips and sightseeing tours.

If you’re solo traveling, you can look for tours for solo travelers in the Philippines on online travel agencies and add your desired water activities to try.

How do I book a water activity tour?

Booking methods vary, but most tour operators offer online booking through their website or third-party booking platforms. You can typically select your preferred date, time, and activity, and complete the booking process online. Alternatively, you may also book in person at the tour operator's office or through a travel agency like Guide to the Philippines.

For a hassle-free adventure, you can book Philippines guided tours with a water sports package.

Can I join water activity tours if I don't know how to swim?

Yes! Most of the time, you will be provided with a life vest during water activity tours for your safety. In more extreme water activities, there will be a licensed professional to assist you during the tour.

Will there be tours during rainy or bad weather?

For your safety, all water activity tours will depend on the weather and water conditions. Some water activity tours will most likely be canceled if there's a storm signal advisory. You can still enjoy some rainy season activities if there’s only minimal rainfall. Make sure to stay in contact with your tour operator for updates.

Are phones and cameras allowed during the tour?

Some tour operators allow you to take photos using your underwater camera or waterproof phones.

Will there be equipment provided for different water activities?

For snorkeling and scuba diving packages, equipment and gear will be provided by the tour operators. In some cases, these are an add-on cost. Check the description of your chosen tour to see equipment inclusions.

Are water activities safe?

Water activities are generally safe though some of the more extreme ones, like wakeboarding or white water rafting, do come with risks. To ensure your safety, tour operators will provide you with the necessary safety equipment with a trained or licensed guide. It is important to make sure you are getting your tours from operators accredited by the Department of Tourism for the highest standards of safety and service.