With the new year comes new travel plans. Chances are, most of you already have go-to destinations that you revisit every now and then. As comfortable as repeat vacations can be, why not step outside your comfort zone this year? Go the extra mile and visit places you have yet to visit, or seek out travel spots that have yet to be put on travelers’ radars. Who knows, you just might find the next Boracay or Siargao. If you haven’t decided yet on where you’d like to go this 2026, we’ve picked out some local places that we feel will be hot destinations this year.

Clark, Pampanga

We’re starting this list with a familiar destination, Clark, Pampanga. Clark, in recent years, has started to blossom as an entry point for travelers to the Philippines. As more folks start to fly via the Clark International Airport, many are starting to seek out things to do in the area while waiting for their next flight. Just a short drive from the airport, you can spend a day admiring the local artworks and brushing up on history at the Clark Museum. Venturing further out, nature lovers and thrillseekers can go hiking on Mt. Pinatubo. These hikes are often guided by the indigenous Aeta community. Many expert hikers advise going straight to the local guides, as it will help ensure the money and support you give will go directly to their community. There are posts on forum sites like Reddit that provide information on potential contacts for guided tours.

Siquijor

Before, Siquijor was often an overlooked area due to the notion of it being home to all sorts of witchcraft. Legend has it, the island is home to several Philippine mythological creatures, such as aswangs, mananangals, and tikbalangs. These days, it’s starting to become a favored beach destination. The mystical aspect of Siquijor, however, maintains a strong presence through its traditional healing methods. There are local healers who make use of the many herbs and natural remedies present on the island. Others offer potions for either finding love or success. If you seek alternative methods in healing, or simply want to relax by beaches yet to be discovered by tourists, Siquijor is the place to be.

Batanes

Visiting Batanes may be a difficult path to take, but for those who have taken the risk, most agree it is 100 percent worth it. Known as the northernmost point of the Philippines, Batanes is the ideal getaway for travelers who want to get away from it all. Think picturesque backgrounds that will have people thinking you flew off to remote islands in Europe. Just a fair warning, this destination is one that must be carefully planned. If you find yourself visiting at the wrong season, you might find yourself trapped due to the severe weather conditions, making it nearly impossible to leave. Flying is the only option, as the seas surrounding the island feel like traversing Neptune’s wrath. We recommend timing your visit during the summer season.

Limasawa

While many think of Cebu when it comes to Catholicism’s arrival, via Ferdinand Magellan’s expedition, historians point to Limasawa in Southern Leyte as the location for the first mass celebrated in the Philippines. It was held on Easter Sunday, on March 31, 1521. Today, travelers can visit a national shrine dedicated to this historic moment in Barangay Magallanes. Taking a trek uphill will lead you to a monument with a cross representing the first mass, as well as providing visitors with an ample view of Camiguin Island and Bohol in the distance. Limasawa is also an ideal diving spot, with lucky divers often spotting dolphins and whale sharks swimming about.