“Every lake belongs to the quietness desired by the swans,” poet Munia Khan wrote. Her description mirrored what we collectively sense about these bodies of water existing under the shadows of big-swell oceans and streaming rivers. Lakes dished a different vibe far from the seas we were accustomed to visiting in our geographically gifted, archipelagic country. The stillness of their natural pools of freshwater provided a tranquil atmosphere coupled with the lush greens that usually surrounded them. Therefore, if you were wandering around the Philippines, a jaunt to one of these lakes would instantly give you a memorable travel experience.
Beautiful Lakes in the Philippines Perfect for Nature and Chill
Lake Apo (Valencia, Bukidnon)
This small circling body of water screamed of serenity and abounded with earthly loveliness calling for a moment of quiet contemplation. Situated in the city of Valencia, it was reachable by a short habal-habal ride threading across a picturesque farm of sugarcanes and into a lush forest. Visitors could walk barefoot over its naturally grown lawn grass and into the cool, fresh, and still water. An afternoon dip and a simple picnic by the lake would surely gift you with a wonderful day.
Mount Pinatubo Crater Lake (Zambales and Tarlac)
Carved by a force of nature that resulted in one of the most destructive volcanic eruptions of all time, the Mount Pinatubo crater then appeared as a beautiful natural work of art. A rich hue of blue-green water filled this famous lake that attracted travelers and even geologists from all over the world—all curious to see how a freak of nature could cause such a wonderful aftermath.
The Seven Lakes of San Pablo City (Laguna)
An orgy of crater lakes dotting the lush meadows of San Pablo City in Laguna, consisting of the twin lakes of Pandin and Yambo, Sampaloc, Muhikap, Lake Calibato, Palakpakin, and Bunot, were one of the main tourist draws of the province of Laguna. One could spend a day boarding a bamboo raft over Lake Pandin while diving and swimming into its fresh water. It could be finished off with a sumptuous lunch consisting of fish caught from the lake itself.
Lake Bulusan (Bulusan, Sorsogon)
Enclosed by the Bulusan Volcano National Park, Lake Bulusan was situated right at the foot of the famed volcano. Also a home to endemic species of freshwater fish and a number of colorful birds and other mammals, kayaking over the glass-like waters of this lake gave visitors an unmatched nature-bonding experience.
Kayangan Lake (Coron, Palawan)
An elevated freshwater lake situated in the middle of the gorgeous ocean and islets surrounding the peninsula of Coron, Palawan; Kayangan Lake remained the highlight of an unforgettable island-hopping tour around that part of Palawan. A short hike delivered travelers to gleaming and solid green-colored water encapsulated by towering karst peaks and thick forests. The bursting visual spectacle would leave you dropping your jaw and dipping your body into its crystal-clear waters in no time.
Lake Sebu and Lake Holon (South Cotabato)
South Cotabato was blessed to have two stunning lakes gifted with striking natural wonders. Lake Sebu rested adjacent to a cascading series of seven waterfalls and engaged adventurers in a zipline ride of a lifetime by shooting them half a kilometer long over the tallest waterfalls.
Lake Holon demanded extra effort to reach as it required hours of rigid hiking through a dense mountain. Upon arrival, though, one instantly felt the worthiness of the whole undertaking as the sweeping view of the lake made you appreciate the grandeur of Mother Nature. Visitors could camp for the night and enjoy the starry skies while they listened to the hymns of the solitude the lake brought.
Lake Lumot in Cavinti, Laguna
Situated in the next town to Lake Caliraya, Lake Lumot was smaller but dished a more isolated vibe perfect for a quick, socially-distanced getaway with nature. Its calm water was ideal for a morning kayak, and shallow lakefront shores were great for an afternoon swim. Dotted around the lake were secluded lake houses, quaint resorts, and glamping sites—each offering a sheltered abode surrounded only by lush nature of swaying trees, blooming flowers, the chirps of birds, and the quacks of ducks.
