The Philippines or Bali for a Honeymoon?
Bali and the Philippines are two of Asia’s top honeymoon spots, and for good reason. Both offer breathtaking natural vistas, charming attractions, and unforgettable romantic experiences — fitting all budgets.
To make things harder for you, they’re both award-winning destinations!
The Philippines was named Asia’s Leading Tourist Attraction in the 2024 World Travel Awards. Bali earned the title of the Best Island in Asia at DestinAsian Readers’ Choice Awards 2024.
Still confused? This blog is your handy guide to deciding between the two locations for your dreamy honeymoon.
Best Time To Visit — Bali vs the Philippines
If you’re planning your honeymoon between April and October, visit Bali. If you’re honeymooning between November and May, travel to the Philippines.
These months offer great weather for outdoor activities and beach relaxation.
Avoid peak tourist months — July to August in Bali and December to February in the Philippines. The crowds will be massive and prices exorbitant.
For the best mix of value and comfort, visit the locations in the shoulder season:
- Bali: April to May or September to October.
- The Philippines: November or May.
The weather is pleasant during these months. Plus, tourists are fewer and prices are more affordable.
Which Location Is Easier To Get Around — Bali vs The Philippines
Bali:
Bali is a single, compact island. Popular towns like Ubud (inland), Seminyak (coastal), and Nusa Dua (beachfront) are within a few hours’ drive.
The roads are well-connected. Scooters, cars, and ride-hailing apps make travel simple. But traffic in busy areas can be frustrating during peak hours.
Yet, travel within Bali requires minimal planning. The island is perfect for a seamless and relaxed honeymoon.
The Philippines:
The Philippines has 7,000+ islands. Major destinations like Palawan, Boracay, and Cebu are spread out.
Travelling between islands involves flights or ferries. Exploring many islands takes time and planning. You also need to be flexible in your itinerary. But, these elements make your honeymoon feel like an enchanting discovery.
Romantic Activities — Bali vs The Philippines
Bali:
- Indulging in couples’ massages and romantic bathing rituals in serene settings.
- Rafting on the Ayung River and enjoying a riverside meal.
- Sailing on a private sunset cruise with gourmet dining or live entertainment.
- Enjoying private intimate dinners in a villa or on the beach.
- Flying over Bali’s beaches, mountains, or sunsets on a private helicopter tour.
- Savouring a luxurious floating breakfast in your private pool
- Taking Balinese cooking classes and enjoying your creations.
- Drifting in a hot air balloon at sunrise or sunset.
- Swimming and picnicking at hidden waterfalls like Gitgit and Tegenungan.
- Experience incredible views on a jungle swing.
- Wandering through Ubud’s scenic rice terraces.
- Exploring night markets for snacks, crafts, and Balinese dishes.
- Snorkelling or diving at Nusa Penida’s vibrant reefs.
- Taking a walk through Ubud’s Sacred Monkey Forest.
- Bonding at Bali’s famous surfing spots.
- Exploring high-energy nightclubs, stylish beach clubs, or laid-back bars.
- Watching sunsets at Jimbaran or Uluwatu.
- Watching traditional Balinese dance performances at Uluwatu Temple.
The Philippines:
- Relaxing at Boracay’s White Beach.
- Savouring a romantic dinner by the tranquil oceanside, on the beach.
- Island-hopping in El Nido or Coron to discover secluded lagoons.
- Swimming with whale sharks in Oslob for a thrilling experience.
- Snorkelling or diving at Tubbataha Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Dining on a sandbar in Cebu or Siargao.
- Hiking Mount Pinatubo to admire its stunning crater lake.
- Staying in a private villa in Bohol with Chocolate Hills views.
- Exploring Hinatuan Enchanted River.
- Visiting Pamalican Island (Amanpulo) for luxurious privacy.
- Kayaking through Puerto Princesa’s Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Discovering the Banaue Rice Terraces.
- Sitting by a beachfront bonfire in Siargao.
- Soaking in the natural hot springs of Camiguin Island.
- Watching the sunset on a private sailboat in Palawan.
- Riding a kalesa (horse-drawn carriage) in Vigan.
- Taking a helicopter tour over Cebu or Palawan for breathtaking island views.
- Exploring Siquijor Island’s mystical waterfalls.
Where To Stay — Bali vs The Philippines
Bali:
Bali offers a variety of romantic stays. These are:
- Private honeymoon villas with infinity pools,
- Boutique resorts with lush gardens, and
- Eco-luxury lodges surrounded by nature.
Many accommodations offer complete Bali honeymoon packages with intimate experiences like floating breakfasts, candlelit dinners, or couples’ spa treatments.
Ubud’s jungle retreats are ideal for reconnecting with nature and bonding deeply with each other. Coastal areas like Nusa Dua provide luxury lapped in seclusion. Seminyak is perfect for couples who seek a vibrant atmosphere.
The Philippines:
Many properties feature stunning ocean views, direct beach access, and private villas in lush landscapes.
The Philippines offers idyllic beachfront resorts, overwater bungalows, and private island stays. You can enjoy exclusive villas with stunning ocean views and direct beach access. Or opt for eco-friendly lodges.
Honeymoon spots like Palawan and Boracay offer personalised experiences like romantic beach dinners, spa treatments, and private boat tours.
Where To Eat — Bali vs The Philippines
Bali:
Bali’s dining scene caters to every taste.
Casual warungs serve traditional dishes like nasi goreng and satay. Upscale restaurants offer international and fusion cuisine or authentic meals prepared in traditional styles. You’ll also find organic cafés, beachfront seafood spots, and farm-to-table eateries with vegan and gluten-free options, perfect for intimate meals.
The Philippines:
The Philippines combines local charm with international flavours.
Eateries serve Filipino staples like adobo and lechon, while coastal areas specialise in fresh seafood. Larger hubs like Cebu and Manila feature gourmet restaurants. Island resorts provide romantic beachfront dining beneath the starlit sky.
Our Verdict – Which is Better?
Choose Bali if you:
- Are honeymooning between April and October.
- Prefer a centralised trip that blends luxury and ease.
- Desire secluded luxury in romantic honeymoon resorts, jungle retreats, or ocean-facing villas.
- Seek different experiences in a single destination:
- Connection with nature
- Authentic wellness,
- Cultural exploration,
- Adventure, and
- Dynamic nightlife.
Choose the Philippines if you:
- Love exploring diverse islands.
- Dream of turquoise waters, secluded beaches, and vibrant marine life.
- Want unique experiences like sandbar picnics, island-hopping, or dining under the stars.
- Prefer luxury in beachfront bungalows or eco-friendly stays.
