A Journey to the Philippines' Hidden Hot Springs
The Philippines, a land of sun-kissed islands, vibrant coral reefs, and lush rainforests, also holds a hidden treasure trove – its natural hot springs.
Nestled amidst volcanic peaks, verdant valleys, and geothermal wonders, these steaming havens offer a unique blend of relaxation, rejuvenation, and cultural immersion.
Most of the top hot spring resorts in the country are nestled in Laguna, the Resort Capital of the Philippines, and just a few hours away from the Philippine capital of Manila in Luzon. Most of these hot spring resorts are located at the foot of Mount Makiling, an inactive volcano.
The Best Time for a Thermal Getaway:
Each season offers its own unique charm at the Philippines' hot springs:
Dry Season (November-April): Enjoy the pleasant temperatures, clear skies, and minimal crowds. Perfect for exploring the surrounding areas and soaking in the warmth of the springs.
Wet Season (May-October): Experience lush greenery, waterfalls at their peak, and the occasional refreshing shower. Be prepared for higher humidity and possible road closures during heavy rains.
Festival Season (December-January): Immerse yourself in the vibrant Filipino culture during various festivals, often held near hot spring resorts. Expect larger crowds and festive activities.
Maquinit Hot Spring
Craving a seaside soak with a touch of the extraordinary? Maquinit Hot Spring in Coron, Palawan, is your answer. One of the lesser-known saltwater hot springs in the world is the Maquinit Hot Spring. It is situated off the Southern coast of Busuanga Island and less than 5 km away from Coron town.
After hiking Mt. Tapyas, you can head over to the hot spring to take a soothing dip into its giant tub-shaped pool. You can also pay a tricycle driver to take you 30 minutes over the rough roads to get there, but make sure they know you need a ride back!
There are 3 pools that are quite hot, but mornings and evenings are good times to go. I like to go to hot springs when the cool rain is dripping on my head. Changing rooms and restrooms are available, but no shower.
This saltwater wonder, heated by the volcanic depths of the island, is a unique blend of marine minerals and geothermal magic. The sulfur content boasts potential benefits for skin health, while the magnesium offers muscle relaxation and stress relief. Additionally, the calcium and potassium present can contribute to bone health and overall well-being.
Prepare for a dip unlike any other, with the rhythmic waves lapping against the pools and the whispers of the ocean mingling with the volcanic symphony of minerals.
Mambukal Mountain Resort
Seeking a hot spring experience infused with spiritual serenity? Mambukal Mountain Resort in Negros Occidental offers a haven for both body and soul.
The resort boasts numerous hot spring pools, each with a distinct mineral composition. This one has a strong sulphur smell.
They also have a regular swimming pool, cottages for picnics, kayaking, scenics view and the well known “7 falls”. The first two waterfalls are the easily accessible among the seven – Waterfalls One or “Hikong Alo” is standing at 35 feet while Waterfalls Two or “Hikong Bente” is 70 feet tall. Getting up close to the other five (Hikong B’Lebel, Hikong Lowig, Hikong Ukol, Hikong K’Fo-I and Hikong Tonok) is quite an effort but they can be easily seen by riding the zipline that starts at Waterfalls One.
Note they are closed Mondays.
The silica-rich waters, for instance, are said to promote smoother, more radiant skin, while the iron content can contribute to improved energy levels and oxygen circulation. Immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere, surrounded by lush greenery and the gentle murmur of cascading water, as the minerals work their magic on your mind and body.
The Hidden Valley Springs
If a secret garden with a touch of geothermal magic sounds appealing, The Hidden Valley Springs in Laguna awaits.
This laid-back resort and natural springs attraction is 9 minutes' walk from Hidden Valley Falls, and 5 km from the Pan-Philippine Highway - but 1.5-2 hours from Manila - watch the traffic!
Rustic bungalows include patios, warm wood decor and open-air bathrooms. Meals and snacks are served in 3 informal restaurants, including an airy pavilion. Other amenities include 6 natural pools with waterfalls, terraces, and warm and cold water, plus 3 hot tubs, 2 kids' pools and secluded forest trails.
Hot tips
Note this is cash only as of 2024 and no outside food is allowed.
Admission fees are 2,500 PHP per person which includes a buffet lunch.
Try to get an evening reservation for a cool evening under the sky.
This secluded haven boasts a series of cascading pools, each with its own unique mineral composition. The magnesium and calcium content can help ease muscle tension and promote bone health, while the silica promises smoother skin and a radiant glow. Explore the hidden waterfalls and lush greenery as the whispers of the minerals weave their therapeutic spell, leaving you feeling refreshed and revitalized.
Puning Hot Spring
Nestled in the heart of Pampanga, Puning Hot Spring is a haven for those seeking relief from muscle aches and stiff joints. The name of the place was derived from an Aeta word “punang” or “mapunang” which means full of trees then eventually evolved to its present name.
Its sulfuric waters, a legacy of the nearby Mt. Arayat volcano, are rich in magnesium, a mineral renowned for its muscle-relaxing properties. Additionally, the sodium content aids in fluid regulation and enhances blood flow, further contributing to a sense of revitalization.
Experience the "Hidden Waterfall" of eleven hot springs, where steamy waters cascade into a natural pool amidst lush vegetation.
Getting there is an off-road adventure on rough roads past shallow streams, desert-like areas, gorges, rock boulders, elevated lava formations, and Aeta villages going to Sitio Puning.
They offer a sand spa where you are buried in warm sand for 20 minutes and given a foot massage! Then you are covered in mud. You truly get to experience the earth here.
Hot Tips
Combine your soak with a visit to the nearby historical sites of Pampanga.)
Okay so Manit Hot Springs is like the kitchy mini golf course we went to as a kid during summer vacation, but with water you can actually get in, rather than falling in when you chase down your ball. Lovely location in the rainforest, mostly used by locals.
The springs are part of Guadalupe Mabugnao Mainit Hot Spring National Park. The pools are fed by water coming from Mt. Suiro, a dormant volcano that last erupted in the year 1939.
The springs are at the stop of Malabuyoc on the road leading to Kawasan Falls from Oslob. From Cebu City, Malabuyoc is approximately a three to four-hour drive. Upon reaching Malabuyoc town, head towards Barangay Montañeza.
You can get there by riding from Cebu Bus Terminal, and ask conductor/driver if they pass by Malabuyoc, you can inform them to drop you off by the entrance to Mainit Springs. Once you get off the bus, you can ride motorcycle going to the springs, fare is around P30-50. You can also trek from hot springs to montaneza falls where there are cold spring pools.
The first pool is very hot that you can smell the sulfur. The second and third are warm and you can stay long in it. Even better the river water is cold so easy to mix hot and cold.
Life-size statues of saints and Christ including that of Santo Niño de Cebú have also added to its tourist attractions.
A trail up a hill leads to at least three caves, the most explored being Cave Lorett and Cave Moymoy.
You can continue on to Kawasan Falls, which are located in Badian, which is in the southern portion of Cebu Island.
Once you’re here at the entrance, there’s a long path through the jungle towards Kawasan Falls but it’s fairly easy to walk on and you’ll see lots of locals pushing along cooler boxes with picnics. This walk takes as long as 30 minutes though.
Sira-an Hot Spring and Health Resort
One of the famous tourist destinations in Panay Island is the Sira-an Hot Spring and Health Resort of Anini-y, Antique. Nestled on the craggy cliff-edge of Anini-y Antique — one side fronting the highway, the other facing the Sulu Sea.
Siraan has numerous pools facing the sea. The waters from these is said to have a whitish speck where the name of the resort originated from; resembling crumbled powder bits like a woman’s ruined (nasira) face foundation. The views are pretty but the property and springs need some upkeep. It has so much potential.
The hot springs are part of love story folklore. There was once a forbidden love affair involving the daughter of the Malayan chieftain named Anini and Nogas who was a former slave and a farmer’s son. Since they belong in different statuses, their love story ended badly when Nogas was killed and his body was casted into the open sea. An island formed which is presently named after him. Devastated by the death of her lover, Anini died and left her remains by the rocky shore facing the island. On her burial site there appeared a mini hot spring representing her tears and a sleeping volcano making her heart still beating for her true love.
This is also a jumping off point to Nogas Island. Nogas Island is an uninhabited marine sanctuary located at Anini-y, Antique Philippines. Being a marine reserve, colourful corals and diverse underwater organisms can be found (so make sure to bring your snorkelling equipment).
If you are coming by plane, the closest jump-off point to Anini-y, Antique is Iloilo City. From Iloilo, take a bus bound for Anini-y, Antique from the Molo bus terminal. The white Diana Ross buses usually ply this route. Travel time is around 2 hours and fare is Php 80. Ask the driver to drop you off at Siraan Hot Spring. An alternative mode of transportation is via van, from Iloilo’s van terminal. Entrance fee to Siraan is Php 20.
Additional Resources:
Are you traveling in other parts of Asia? Take a look at more hot springs in Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Nepal, Thailand, Malaysia, China, Indonesia, India, Japan, Philippines, and Vietnam.
