Sumilon Island

The name Sumilon means "refuge," and Sumilon Island offers a spectacularly beautiful refuge in its tropical gardens, azure waters and white sand beaches. The island got its name from the days when it offered protection for fishing vessels during typhoons, but today, it's more widely known for its world-class dive sights and undeveloped, relaxed attitude.

The always shifting Sandbar Beach gives beach bums plenty of space to spread out in the sun or go for a swim in the calm waters. A hike through the island's lush tropical forests will take to cliffs with views over the island's beautiful blue lagoons. Climb the lighthouse in the south portion of the island for unobstructed views in every direction.

While Sumilon's hikes and beaches are worth the three-hour trip all on their own, the main draw here is the diving. Home to the first marine sanctuary in the country, Sumilon's waters offer excellent visibility and healthy coral reefs teeming with colorful marine life.