Imagine basking in the sun and sipping fresh coconut juice while listening to the soothing sound of ocean waves as future retirees. If you’re ready to turn this dream into reality, here are some of the top beaches in the Philippines to consider for your future retirement home.

Whether you’re a balikbayan or an expat, living at the beach can offer the best retirement lifestyle. It provides a revitalizing experience as it is beneficial to your health. Studies show living by the sea can reduce anxiety and depression, and allow you to cultivate inner peace.

Best beaches in the Philippines for retirees

We’ve rounded up the top beach spots for your retirement, ranked for their affordability, beauty, quality of living and proximity to healthcare facilities — based on reviews by expats and local residents.

10. Camiguin Island View this post on Instagram

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Offering a variety of natural wonders like cold and hot spring lagoons, picturesque volcanic landscapes and waterfalls, this island is a nature lover’s paradise where retirees can enjoy a peaceful retreat.

Pros

Perfect for nature lovers Affordable cost of living

Cons

ADVERTISEMENT Limited nightlife Remote area with limited modern facilities  9. Boracay Island

Budget aside, Boracay offers one of the most gorgeous beaches in the world, good internet coverage and proximity to the airport. Hailed as the world’s best white sand beach of 2024, it’s a retirement haven with modern facilities and diverse culinary scene.

Pros

Progressing economy Continuous environmental rehabilitation

Cons

ADVERTISEMENT High cost of living 8. Siargao View this post on Instagram

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Dubbed as the “surfing capital of the Philippines,” this is a small, teardrop-shaped island with a laid-back lifestyle. It’s ideal for retirees who love outdoor activities like diving, snorkeling and island hopping.

Pros

Top-notch restaurants Active small expat and digital nomad community

Cons

Within the typhoon belt Occasional water shortages during summer 7. Puerto Princesa, Palawan View this post on Instagram

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It may not be as touristy as El Nido or Coron but it offers serenity and lower cost of living compared to Manila — a perfect blend of beach and urban life.

Pros

Zero traffic Nearby islands with white sand beaches

Cons

Sand isn’t as white as other famous Palawan spots Less advanced healthcare facilities

You may also like: Private island in Palawan wins global award as one of world’s best

6. Panglao Island, Bohol

The charm of a small tropical town and the locals’ warm hospitality, combined with the pristine white sand beaches, will lure you to this paradise – one of the best beaches for retirees.

Just 15 to 20 minutes away from Tagbilaran City, it’s a perfect choice for retirees seeking a slower pace of life and an affordable cost of living.

Pros

Has its own airport One of the safest places to live in the Philippines with very low crime rate

Cons

Crowded during summer 5. La Union

Known as the “Surfing Capital of the North,” La Union offers more than just waves but also breathtaking sunsets and excellent restaurants. From organic produce markets to friendly locals, it’s an ideal place to retire.

Pros

Minimal cost of living Laid-back community

Cons

Tourist-heavy areas can get crowded Heavy traffic during peak season Non-white sand 4. Bantayan Island, Cebu View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Bantayan Island🇵🇭 (@wow_bantayan_island)

Bantayan, home to some renowned Filipino artists and known as the jewel in Cebu’s crown, promises aquamarine waters and a peaceful retirement. Though it’s quickly gaining popularity, this tiny island still keeps its charm.

Pros

Small population Serene environment

Cons

Quality healthcare facilities are located in Cebu City 3. San Antonio, Zambales

With the ocean in front of you, mountain ranges behind you and lush forests nearby, San Antonio is the perfect nature retreat for retirees. Its proximity to Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) ensures all amenities are within a few minutes’ drive.

Pros

Good hospitals are just a 30-minute drive from Subic Home to many expats

Cons

Expensive electricity Typhoon-prone area 2. Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro

A tropical paradise known for its white sand beaches, vibrant marine life and lush mountains, this retirement haven offers outdoor activities like snorkeling, diving, swimming, hiking and sailing. 

Pros

Low cost of living Manila is just 3 to 4 hours away by ferry and land Active expat community

Cons

White Beach is crowded almost all-year round

1. Dumaguete City View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Dumaguete Tourism (@dumaguete.tourism)

“The City of Gentle People” clinched the top spot for the best beaches for retirees, given its excellent healthcare, vibrant community and stunning beaches.

As one of the top retirement destinations in the Philippines, Dumaguete offers the freshest seafood. It provides a high quality of life and offers numerous nature activities. Forbes highlighted it as one of the best spots for beachfront living on a budget.

Pros

Very low cost of living Warm and sunny weather almost all-year round

Cons

Low local wages (irrelevant for retirees)

As the Philippines is becoming a top retirement destination in Southeast Asia, the Philippine Retirement Authority offers a competitive retirement program for balikbayans and foreign nationals and a Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV). 

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