The year 2020 has taught us the importance of the little things. Many enjoyed having spent more time with their families. While some realized that regardless of where they are or how bad the situation is, what matters is that they’re with their loved ones.

Speaking of loved ones, weddings were postponed last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Some couples opted for a more intimate affair, while others decided to delay the celebration until the situation normalized. With proper planning and safety measures in place, you can still celebrate your honeymoon during the pandemic.

After the exhausting yet exciting wedding planning, newlywed couples need to take some rest and celebrate their union as husband and wife for the first time. After all, the honeymoon is about sharing a one-of-a-kind experience with your new spouse.

Traveling is one good way to start off your marriage. Just make sure to know about all the documents needed for traveling in quarantine. Here are the best honeymoon destinations in the Philippines for newlyweds:

1. Palawan

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Many people surely must have missed going to the beach and reconnecting with nature. El Nido is located in the northern tip of Palawan and is the perfect getaway destination for a romantic honeymoon experience in the Philippines. With its secluded lagoons, coral reefs, and turquoise waters, El Nido will have you and your spouse swooning, just like you do for each other.

After a day of experiencing an adventure with your partner, snuggle together and go on an intimate yacht ride. Enjoy a luxurious, overseas-style escape by booking an El Nido Party Boat, and make arrangements for a romantic dinner on the deck.

2. Batanes

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If you want a honeymoon vacation like no other, visit the unparalleled beauty of Batanes. This honeymoon destination is not only for relaxation, but it can also be for adventure particularly for couples who want to experience the scenery of the rolling hills and a variety of massive rock formations, beaches, and coves.

The best time to visit Batanes is during the dry season since this province directly faces the Pacific Ocean and is hit by most typhoons that make their way to the Philippines.

Marvel at the well-preserved natural landscape of the Sabtang Island, or visit the iconic Nakabuang Arch. To complete the Batanes experience, head over to the traditional villages. Immerse yourself in the culture of the Ivatan people of Batanes in their stone-wall homes roofed with dried cogon grass.

3. Cebu

Whether you want your honeymoon to be filled with sunny days under palm trees on the beach or you’d rather immerse yourselves in the culture and history of the city, the Queen City of the South is the place to go to.

Cebu will have something to offer for whatever honeymoon preference you might have. The best time to visit Cebu is in January during the Sinulog Festival celebration or from March to May in more humid weather.

If you choose Cebu as your honeymoon destination with your new spouse, be sure to explore Moalboal's wonders, and witness its rich marine life beneath the waves. Or, explore the Tumalog Falls and the Sumilon Island Sandbar.

When all these make you famished, try the world-famous Lechon (roasted pig) Cebu. The best Lechon experience is at Ayer, Carcar, ZubuChon, or Rico’s. The late American chef Anthony Bourdain even declared it the “best pig ever.”

4. Boracay Island

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There is no doubt that Boracay should be on the top of your list of honeymoon destinations. With its pristine white beach and crystal blue waters, you will never go wrong with Boracay. You can lounge under the sun, enjoy a cozy staycation in your hotel, try some water activities, or just walk on the beach while planning your future together.

Cool down with endless water activities on the island: island hopping, parasailing, kiteboarding, jet skiing, stand-up paddleboarding, and canoeing. Try the wide array of seafood, local delicacies, and the famous Jonah’s fruit shake!

If you want a sure way to enjoy and relax with your lifetime partner, Boracay is the perfect place for you.

5. Bicol

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Home to the stunning Mayon Volcano, Bicol has a lot to offer, in terms of its natural wonders, historic landmarks, and delectably spicy food. Bicol never ceases to provide visitors with a colorful experience. Your choices of activities will range from soaking in the beaches, chasing waterfalls, visiting historical landmarks, to experiencing the Bicolano city life.

Hop on board the Albay Sunset Cruise and have a romantic time enjoying cocktails and canapes while cruising on the Pacific Ocean with an amazing view of the sunset by the Mayon Volcano.

If you want a more adventurous experience, try the thrilling ATV ride on the foothills of Mayon Volcano. Feeling a bit nostalgic? Go to the old churches, like the Daraga Church and the Bato Church. Be sure to also try local dishes such as Bicol Express, bocayo, and the renowned pancit bato.

6. Siargao Island

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Siargao Island is known as the best surfing spot in the Philippines. If you want to escape reality for a while, Cloud 9 provides a sense of exclusivity like no other. Spend your honeymoon with your lifelong partner in quiet, secluded Siargao and revel in its version of white sandy beaches, sandbars, waterfalls, lagoons, and palm-lined streets of this teardrop-shaped island.

For avid surfers, you can visit Siargao in any month of the year. However, we recommend you opt for July to November because these are the months when the swells are best.

Be sure to try island hopping or go for a spelunking trip to the Bolitas and Jellyfish Sanctuary.

7. Bohol

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Home to exotic beaches, river cruises, virgin islands, and jungle adventures, Bohol offers an array of activities for newlyweds on their honeymoon vacation. It is a place where you can relax but also immerse yourselves in history and nature, without the loud bustle of the city.

When you visit Bohol, make sure to visit the famous Chocolate Hills which has more than 1,000 symmetrical mounds, conical and dome-shaped that look like Hershey’s Kisses.

You may also want to see the playful dolphins on Pamilacan Island and go scuba diving at Alona Beach. Of course, try their local delicacies, like ubi-kinampay – a special purple yam indigenous to Bohol which can be found at Gerarda’s Family Restaurant.

Marriage is beautiful. Just like traveling, it has its ups and downs, waves, new experiences, and beautiful memories. But what’s most important is that you experience all these together.

Start your journey by visiting the local travel destinations on this list, and have the best honeymoon you can reminisce when you’re old and gray.

7 Romantic Honeymoon Destinations in the Philippines