Tourists and travel enthusiasts are praising the fourth largest island in the Philippines – Negros – as the hot new destination for vacations around the globe. There are several reasons for this, but among the most significant is the immense allure of this tropical paradise and its stunning crystal-clear waters, including pristine coral reefs that beckon those who dream of diving beneath a rainbow of colors, marine life enthusiasts, or simply floating peacefully on the water while enjoying the natural beauty of the place.

The western part of the island, known as Negros Occidental Province, is home to some of the most enchanting beaches in the Philippines. To add to the attraction, these beaches have not been overrun by hordes of tourists as some other parts of the Philippines.

In this province, you’ll find Sipalay, the Jewel of Sugar Island, a place where the waters blend with a world of pristine marine life, waterfalls, caves, and inviting bays that invite exploration. For those interested in exploring the underwater world, there’s a remarkable variety of dive sites, including 42 diving spots, some of which feature World War II shipwrecks.

A primary destination for those looking for a successful vacation experience is Punta Ballo Beach. This area is rich in marine life, and there are resorts catering to various budget requirements. Given the abundance of bays and beaches on this part of Negros Island, it’s recommended that visitors dedicate at least one day to explore the different shores and bays. Most resorts are happy to arrange boat trips, perfect for those who want to explore various destinations, small caves, and islets, as well as snorkel along secluded shores.

One of the major attractions on any trip to the Philippines is the high quality and abundance of seafood accessible to travelers. Most islands in the Philippines offer seafood at a variety of restaurants and eateries that are considered some of the best in the world. However, in Sipalay, you have the opportunity to enjoy seafood that literally comes from the sea right before your eyes. Every evening, local fishermen head out to sea and bring back their catch of the day. Diners can negotiate for the freshest catch and ask the restaurant or the hotel to prepare their meal. Most resorts are more than willing to do this, and if not, local eateries will gladly do so for a nominal fee.

For those who are culinary enthusiasts, no trip to Sipalay would be complete without a visit to the Mixed Food restaurant. It has become a favored destination for travelers from around the world. This restaurant serves Filipino cuisine with a French twist, in addition to excellent international dishes. Visitors praise the service and particularly rave about the pasta dishes. It’s also a place where you get full value for your money.

Another excellent option in the area is the Dritwood Village restaurant, which draws inspiration from European cuisine and specializes in dishes like spaghetti with tomato sauce – a simple yet delicious dish. However, many diners come here to savor the Thai curry, along with other excellent options. As is usually the case with restaurants in town, the breathtaking views and outdoor seating areas are perfect for sunset lovers.

Especially recommended is the Lab as Seafood restaurant. It started modestly but has become a favorite among island visitors. Here, aquariums showcasing various fish species hint at the expected dining experience. Crustacean enthusiasts can also enjoy their steak at the Pork House, and sushi lovers will find a sushi bar as well. Most importantly, diners have the option to select their seafood directly, guaranteeing the freshest ingredients for their meal.

For those staying in Bacolod (not far from Silay), a unique culinary experience not to be missed is Pala Pala. It’s like a market where you can find the freshest seafood. Visitors can choose from a wide selection of shellfish, shrimps, crabs, and squid, in addition to various types of fish, making this place a central hub. Here, you can have your chosen ingredients prepared in various ways. Apart from grilling and frying, you’ll find local specialties that will challenge your taste buds.

If you’re in Negros and seeking a slightly unusual and different experience, we recommend trying Laguerta, “The Glass Museum.” It’s a place not to be missed. Here, you’ll find an amazing collection of vintage glass drinkware. The collection includes approximately 3,000 fascinating items. During sunset, when the tropical sun shines through the colorful kaleidoscope windows, the place becomes exceptionally breathtaking.

At the end of a day when you’ve had the opportunity to visit such an extraordinary museum, you might feel the need to explore the area more deeply and expand your energy reservoir. And that’s a good reason to embark on a trip to the Danjugan Island marine reserve. It’s one of the most beautiful places on the island, boasting an incredible diversity of marine and plant life. For example, there are 572 species of fish that inhabit the marine reserve and around 244 different types of hard corals, not to mention countless varieties of soft corals. On land, you can find 72 bird species and about 10 different types of bats. It’s nature at its finest.

Moreover, there are numerous opportunities for hiking and exploring the reserve by foot for those who want a deeper encounter with the diverse wildlife, birds, and plants found within the reserve.

Mag Aso Falls is another unique destination on the island, as travelers often don’t have enough time to visit the more distant waterfalls. However, not far from Mag Aso Falls, you can also rent rooms and cottages. During the day, you can bathe in the clear blue waters at the base of the falls, surrounded by local wildlife and plants.

For those who want to delve deeper into the fascinating history and culture of this part of the Philippines, a visit to Silay is highly recommended. Silay, also known as the ‘Paris of Negros,’ offers a variety of impressive heritage buildings, particularly around the central square. One of the gems of Silay is the Hofileña Heritage House.

This is a place that should be included in any travel itinerary on Negros Island. The house showcases an excellent art collection and antique furniture that once belonged to one of the most prominent and influential families in the city. The house’s owner is Ramon Hofileña, and it’s advisable to schedule a visit in advance to enjoy the art and the company of a knowledgeable individual well-versed in the island’s history.

During your tour of Dumaguete, you’ll discover a unique place – a quarter-mile stretch along Rizal Boulevard, built in 1916. The elegant streetlights illuminate historical buildings when the evening arrives, attracting local families and tourists who occupy benches along the boulevard to enjoy the descending evening. Of course, you can find some excellent dining establishments and bars in the area, offering superb Filipino cuisine (not to be missed).

Negros is a sensory celebration. Its natural beauty is only rivaled by the warmth of its people, creating an experience in and of itself. It’s no wonder that a Filipino island like Negros is celebrated as one of the paradisiacal destinations on Earth. So, where is Negros Island located? Check it out on the map below.