Whilst it is no secret that El Nido, on the far northern tip of Palawan, is home to some of the world’s most beautiful powder white beaches, the Secret Lagoon still manages to take your breath away. Kayak through this secluded setting, peering up at the sheer limestone rocks towering above, to then look down below at the aquatic blue beneath you, with a shoal of tropical fish hot on your tail.

Time to head inland now for some wildlife and culture. Meet the ‘carabao’, the Philippines’ national animal, then hang out with the oh-so-cute tarsiers, the world’s smallest primate. Meet local communities and learn how rice is planted, sample coconut wine and try your hand at weaving (maybe not in that order). Finally, which kid won’t want to visit the Chocolate Hills, an iconic spot where rolling green mounds turn a chocolatey hue, perfect for Easter!

Not all water-based activities take place at sea. One of the country’s most famous attractions, and one of our favourite Philippines with kids activities, is canoeing the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is justifiably one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature, and home to one of the world’s longest navigable underground rivers. As you navigate the winding waterways, weaving around massive stalactites, it feels like you’ve stepped straight into Jurassic Park or Tomb Raider. The sense of adventure is unforgettable.

Back to the sea! The Coron Island tour takes you to the famous Twin Lagoons, where you can swim beneath towering limestone cliffs. Snorkel at Siete Pecados Marine Park, renowned for its colourful coral gardens. And just a stone’s throw away, discover a place where you can literally dive into history! As you snorkel through the lagoons, look out for WWII shipwrecks right at your fingertips. With marine life in abundance, the rainbow fish and corals have made this sunken ship into a living museum. Why not complete your PADI scuba course here?

A Philippine family holiday can be busy, and it is nice to slow the pace down at times. Take to kayaks or canoes and journey through Bohol’s serene waterways, gliding past sprawling nipa palms, hidden mangrove tunnels and flooded forests. Then, welcome to the best night show on earth as evening falls and the mesmerising sight of fireflies flickers in front of your eyes. Nature’s very own neon lights…

Being family holiday experts, we know that kids travel on their stomachs. Filipino cuisine mixes indigenous, Spanish, and American with heavy Chinese influences. We love the street food favourites like lechon (marinated roast pig) and chicken adobo, but maybe not balut – a fertilised duck egg. In Albuquerque (the other one!), you can watch Calamay-makers transform glutinous rice and coconut milk into the nation’s favourite sweet treat – yum! Have a go at preparing Asin Tibuok, a rare and ancient sea salt. Then visit the Bohol Bee Farm and get a real buzz from their utterly delicious ice cream.

Cool off at Cambugahay Falls on Siquijor, where kids can splash around in the shallow pools and jump from rope swings at this multi-tiered waterfall. Then head underground at Cantabon Cave where families can discover a mysterious underground world full of stalactites and stalagmites – but which one is which…?

Experiencing the Sardine Run from Moalboal on Cebu is truly a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Just imagine – as you swim out from Panagsama beach toward the edge of the reef, you’re suddenly enveloped by a cloud of shimmering sardines. Though completely harmless, the sheer number and movement of the fish create an awe-inspiring, almost surreal spectacle. An experience you will never forget.

Ultimately, the Philippines is a beach destination and will suit families of all inclinations. Teens will be keen to surf at Sabang, daredevils can swim the keyhole slot to Secret Beach in the Bacuit Archipelago, and youngsters can romp along the safe sands of idyllic Panglao Island. The Philippines lets you live that picture postcard/Insta moment of white powder, palm trees, and turquoise sea with (because we are on holiday after all) a cocktail in hand. Life really is a beach.