The Visayas region is home to some of the most stunning beaches in the Philippines. While Boracay and Panglao often get the spotlight, there are still plenty of affordable gems where you can enjoy white sand, clear waters, and a relaxing vibe without draining your wallet. Here are some of the top budget-friendly beaches you can visit this 2025.
1. Dalaguete Beach Park (Casay Beach), Cebu
This public beach, managed by the local government, offers white sand and calm waters—perfect for family day trips. It’s clean, organized, and accessible by bus or private car from Cebu City.
- Entrance Fee: ₱50 adults / ₱25 children
- Parking: Around ₱20
- Table rental: ₱250 / cottages ₱300+
- No overnight stays allowed; best to book lodging in nearby Dalaguete town
- Bring your own food and water, as stalls are limited
Budget Tip: Visit on weekdays to avoid the crowds and enjoy a quieter experience.
2. Lambug Beach, Badian, Cebu
Known as the “Little Boracay of Cebu,” Lambug Beach is more laid-back and less commercialized than other Cebu hotspots. It’s popular among backpackers for its powdery sand and chill vibe.
- Entrance Fee: ₱45 per person
- Cottage rentals: ₱1,000–₱1,800 depending on size
- Homestays / dorm beds: ₱400–₱500+ per night
- Food stalls and small eateries available
Budget Tip: If you’re staying overnight, camping or staying in a simple homestay saves more compared to beachfront resorts.
3. Kota Beach, Bantayan Island, Cebu
Kota Beach is one of Bantayan’s most famous spots, offering a sandbar, coconut-lined shore, and a relaxing island vibe. Resorts here are pricier, but there are still ways to visit on a budget.
- Day-use entrance: ₱50 (waived if dining in)
- Resort rooms: ₱3,200+ for standard rooms; beachfront cottages ₱5,000+
- Guesthouses outside resorts are much cheaper
Budget Tip: Stay in local inns or guesthouses near Sta. Fe town. Rent a bike to explore the island affordably.
4. Kalanggaman Island, Palompon, Leyte
Famous for its pristine sandbar and turquoise waters, Kalanggaman has become stricter with visitor management, and entrance fees were updated recently.
- Entrance Fee: ₱300 for Filipinos / ₱1,000 for foreigners
- Overnight stay: ₱1,500 (foreigners) with higher local fees too
- Tent rentals: ₱250–₱300
- Cottage rentals available; no electricity on the island
Budget Tip: Join group boat tours to cut transport costs. Bring your own food and water, since island prices are higher.
5. Paliton Beach, Siquijor
Called the “Little Boracay of Siquijor,” Paliton is a charming public beach with powdery white sand and spectacular sunsets. It’s less crowded and still affordable.
- Environmental Fee: ₱20 per person
- Parking: Free
- Lodging: Plenty of budget inns and homestays in San Juan town
Budget Tip: Visit in the late afternoon for the sunset, but go earlier if you want shade and less crowd.
Budget Comparison: 2D1N Visayas Beach Trips (2025)
| Beach / Location | Transportation (roundtrip) | Entrance / Fees | Lodging (per pax) | Food & Misc. | Total Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dalaguete Beach Park, Cebu | ₱360 (bus + trike) | ₱113 (entrance + table share) | ₱400 (homestay share) | ₱350 (meals, misc.) | ₱1,200 |
| Lambug Beach, Badian, Cebu | ₱400 (bus + transfers) | ₱345 (entrance + cottage share) | ₱500 (homestay) | ₱480 (meals, misc.) | ₱1,725 |
| Kota Beach, Bantayan, Cebu | ₱1,340 (bus + ferry + trike + return) | ₱50 (day-use) | ₱500 (guesthouse share) | ₱670 (meals, bike rental) | ₱2,560 |
| Kalanggaman Island, Leyte | ₱360 (van roundtrip) + ₱350 boat | ₱425 (entrance + tent share + misc.) | ₱0 (tent stay) | ₱450 (meals, misc.) | ₱1,585 |
| Paliton Beach, Siquijor | ₱550 (ferry + trike + return) | ₱70 (entrance + trike share) | ₱400 (homestay share) | ₱425 (meals, motorbike) | ₱1,445 |
Quick Insights
- Most Affordable: Dalaguete Beach Park (~₱1,200) – perfect for quick day trips + simple overnight stay.
- Best for Backpackers: Paliton Beach (~₱1,445) – budget-friendly with sunset views.
- Island Vibes with Sandbars: Kalanggaman (~₱1,585) – higher fees but unique experience.
- Chill Beach Escape: Lambug (~₱1,725) – laid-back vibe with camping options.
- Premium Option: Kota Beach (~₱2,560) – pricier but offers the Bantayan charm.
The Visayas is rich with beaches that rival the country’s most famous spots but remain budget-friendly. If you’re traveling on a shoestring, prioritize Lambug in Badian, Paliton in Siquijor, and Dalaguete Beach Park for the cheapest options. For those willing to spend a bit more, Kota Beach and Kalanggaman Island are worth the extra peso.
With the right planning—like traveling on weekdays, sharing transport costs, and choosing simple lodging—you can still enjoy the beauty of the Visayas without spending big.
