Have you visited the famous Magellan’s Cross in Cebu? Or perhaps the scenic white sand beaches of Boracay? Visayas tourist spots can range from cultural heritage sites to adrenaline-pumping nature adventure parks. It can be challenging to decide on a certain itinerary, but once you begin your journey across the Visayan sea, you’ll find that each of its 16 provinces has something unique to offer to every type of traveler.

Maximize your trip to the region by rounding up a mix of the popular and underrated tourist destinations in Visayas. Discover the amazing places you can go through this comprehensive list.

21 Visayas Tourist Spots to Add to Your Travel Goals

A Quick Profile of Visayas

Visayas is the second island group in the Philippines, comprising three regions and 16 provinces, namely:

• Western Visayas (Region VI) – Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Iloilo, Guimaras, Negros Occidental
• Central Visayas (Region VII) – Bohol, Cebu, Negros Oriental, Siquijor
• Eastern Visayas (Region VIII) – Biliran, Leyte, Southern Leyte, Samar, Eastern Samar, Northern Samar

Explore each province and region through the following spots.

Western Visayas Tourist Destinations

• Boracay Island (Malay, Aklan)

What better way to start off your excursion than to visit Boracay? It is known as one of the world-class tourist destinations in Visayas, made up of pristine, powdery white-sand beaches and an array of recreational water activities to choose from. It also has a bustling nightlife for party lovers. You can conveniently reach Boracay from Caticlan Jetty Port.

• Motag Living Museum (Malay, Aklan)

Go back in time to witness the simplicity of the agricultural industry in Aklan before its modernization. Motag Living Museum is an interactive experience, where elders and members of the local community immerse you in a hands-on introduction to traditional farming, weaving, and cooking techniques.

• Malalison Island (Culasi, Antique)

Also known as Mararison Island to locals, this idyllic town boasts a stunning landscape, complete with the gentle roll of waves, panoramic hills, and crystalline shores. It is affordable to reach and far less crowded than most Visayas tourist spots, making it an ideal intimate nature escape.

• Ruins of Alcatraz (Roxas City, Capiz)

What was once supposed to be a grand resort was abandoned due to the wrath of Typhoon Yolanda in 2013. It is now one of the emerging tourist destinations in Visayas, offering a sense of mystery and natural beauty, surrounded by the crashing waves of Capiz’ shores.

• Molo Mansion (Iloilo City, Iloilo)

This majestic ancestral home is one of the most popular historical landmarks in Iloilo City. It boasts a neo-classical architecture with touches of art deco. The mansion also features a Kultura souvenir shop, restaurants, and an event space for cultural arts.

• Jaro Metropolitan Cathedral (Iloilo City, Iloilo)

The enthralling stone facade of the Jaro Metropolitan Cathedral acquaints you with a part of the province’s history. It is also named after Nuestra Señora dela Candelaria of Jaro, housing the only Marian image in the country that was personally crowned by Pope St. John Paul II during his 1981 visit.

• The Ruins (Talisay, Negros Occidental)

A sugar baron built this stately mansion to honor his wife at the height of the sugarcane economy in Negros Occidental. It was burned during World War II, but has fortunately been repurposed into a picturesque events place in recent years. It is also one of the best Visayas tourist spots to hold pre-nup shoots.

• The Negros Museum (Bacolod City, Negros Occidental)

Visit the Negros Museum to get a glimpse of Negrense history and culture. For a budget-friendly entrance fee, you can browse through galleries that showcase the work of local artists, memorabilia of prominent individuals, and amazing handicrafts.

• San Lorenzo Wind Farm (San Lorenzo, Guimaras)

Ever wonder how Guimaras Island gets their power? Hop on over to the San Lorenzo Wind Farm, where you can get up close and personal with enormous windmills that provide sustainable, renewable energy to the towns. It’s also the perfect viewpoint to see the shoreline.

Central Visayas Tourist Destinations

• Oasis Balili Heritage House (Tagbilaran, Bohol)

Balili Heritage House is another beautiful piece of history, repurposed. The home has been transformed into a hostel, complete with homey rooms, a lovely garden with fruit trees, and a restaurant for a convenient dining experience.

• Chocolate Hills Complex (Carmen, Bohol)

This observation deck gives you a perfect view of the renowned Chocolate Hills, one of the most popular Visayas tourist spots. It requires a bit of a climb up, but the path is paved and well-maintained, and the sweeping view is worth the walk. There are souvenir shops where you can pick up some trinkets as a reminder of your trip.

• Temple of Leah (Cebu City, Cebu)

If you’re a fan of ancient Greek columns like that of the Parthenon, make sure to visit the Temple of Leah, an impressive structure in Cebu that is dedicated to Leah Villa Albino-Adarna and their family’s legacy. It is one of the beautiful Visayas tourist destinations loved by many.

• Kawasan Falls (Badian, Cebu)

Canyoneering is an emerging adventure activity in Kawasan Falls, one of the best Visayas tourist spots for thrillseekers. Hike, climb, and swim your way to the multi-tier waterfalls. After the challenging trek, cool off in the rushing, turquoise-blue waters with your barkada.

• Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park (Sibulan, Negros Oriental)

Spend a tranquil day at the 8,016-hectare natural park in Sibulan, Negros Oriental. The park covers the area of Lake Balinsasayao and Lake Danao, adjacent bodies of water hidden by a blanket of trees. It is also the natural habitat of over 400 species of animals and plants. You can even take a relaxing boat ride to cross the lake.

• Cambugahay Falls (Lazi, Siquijor)

Be enchanted by the famous 3-tier waterfalls in the magical island of Siquijor. Grab onto a rope and swing like Tarzan or walk like a fairy on top of the water. For a small fee, you can snap an Instagrammable shot aboard a bamboo raft, against the backdrop of the falls.

Eastern Visayas Tourist Destinations

• Mondelos Nature Park (Kawayan, Biliran)

See a bird’s-eye view of Biliran’s seaside, mountains, and rolling hills at Mondelos Nature Park, a great place to visit with family and friends, or even as a solo traveler. The incredible views and delicious restaurant menu comforts each visitor seeking solace away from the city.

• Heaven’s Peak (Ormoc, Leyte)

Walk the flowery path at Heaven’s Peak, a colorful flower garden straight out of a fairy tale. It’s perfect for a stress-free retreat, complete with a splendid view of Mt. Aminduen, pristine statues, lush greenery, and incredible garden structures. 

• Agas-Agas Bridge (Sogod, Southern Leyte)

The tallest bridge in the Philippines stands at 89 meters, spanning 350 meters connecting two mountains in the area. It was partially funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and was completed in 2015. The lush foliage below and its imposing height has made it one of the most impressive Visayas tourist spots.

• Sohoton Caves & Natural Bridge Park (Basey, Samar)

If the deep unknown thrills you, then the gigantic Sohoton cave system is a must-visit. Find marvelous stalactites, stalagmites, and rock formations unlike any other. Don’t miss out on the kayak ride, led by well-trained guides who know the ins and outs of the caves and natural bridge.

• Calicoan Island (Guiuan, Eastern Samar)

Who knew that one of the most underrated Visayas tourist destinations has a great surf scene? Surfing enthusiasts will appreciate the tranquil seascape of Calicoan Island, a sharp contrast to the busy Cloud 9 surf spot in Siargao. If you don’t ride waves, you can bask in its immaculate white sand beaches.

• Biri Island (Biri, Northern Samar)

Biri is known for its jaw-dropping rock formations and blue lagoons. The island faces the Pacific Ocean, where grand waves roll in and shape the rocks to an incredible silhouette. It’s also a great place to grab some seafood goodness, freshly caught.

Getting to Visayas via Ferry

Have you decided on your dream tourist destinations in Visayas? It’s time to hop on a journey crossing the seas. Starlite Ferries offers daily trips to key tourist spots, such as Caticlan, Capiz, Iloilo (Dumangas), Bacolod (Banago), and Cebu. Follow these steps to book your ferry ticket.

Online Booking

1. Go to the Chelsea Travel Website (https://www.chelseatravel.ph/).
2. Select “Ferries” under Travel Type.
3. Select your Origin and Destination, travel date, and number of passengers.
4. Click “Search”.
5. Select the Starlite Ferries schedule you want.
6. Fill in each passenger’s details and accomplish the payment form.
7. Once you’ve paid online, you will receive a confirmation of your ticket, which you must present at the port on the day of your departure along with a valid ID.

Ticket Outlet

1. Visit any accredited ticketing outlet of Starlite Ferries. View the complete list here.
2. Prepare your valid ID and booking details.
3. Pay the designated amount and receive your ticket copy.
4. One the day of your departure, present the ticket copy along with a valid ID for verification.

Treat yourself to a tour of different Visayas tourist destinations, which will show you the region’s rich natural and cultural diversity. Overcoming the challenge of visiting 16 provinces not only gives you a sense of fulfillment, but also lets you gain a deeper insight about the region’s bountiful culture.

ALSO READ: The Complete Tourist Guide for Exploring Panay Island Philippines

Starlite Ferries provides a comfortable, safe, and cruise-like experience for every traveler. Our RoRo vessels are equipped with cozy cabins, reclining seated areas, bunk beds, and VIP rooms. We also make it easier for you to send express shipment to Visayas through Starlite Express. Explore our rates here and book with us today.