Like elsewhere in the Philippines, Negros Island beaches are picture postcard gorgeous, boasting lovely white sand and a laidback ambience. In just a brief time th casual traveller can explore all these delightful destinations and really soak up what the Philippines has to offer. Negros is known today as the 'deep south' of the Philippines, offering travellers a taste of unspoilt paradise, where both the nature and culture has been largely untouched by the overdevelopment in other parts of the nation.

Sugar Beach, Sipalay

Probably the best known and most attractice of the Negros island beaches, Sugar Beach is lined with various resorts from the native-inspired Driftwood Village to the late night drinking at Sulu Sunset. From these establishments you can book boat rides, snorkelling trips and diving sojourns. The food is generally excellent, with the pizza at Takatuka Beach and Dive Resort the standout dish.

Punta Ballo

Just southeast of Sipalay City is the seemingly neverending white strip of sand kown as Punta Ballo. Diving is one of the favourite activities of travellers to this area, with the best operators including Artistic Diving and Easy Diving which both offer mindblowing trips into the Sulu Sea where all manner of tropical fish, molluscs and reef can be glimpsed. The best food and drink is served at the German-owned Robinson Crusoe Resort and Natasaan, the latter featuring some pleasant accommodation too.

Escalante

Bonista Beach Resort has it all: superb deluxe rooms, a  swimming pool that makes a great alternative to swimming in the sea and fishermen who arrive with the freshest fish for your dinner. Nearby White Island boasts Jomabo Beach resort which is about 30 minutes' travel from Escalante. The island is only 1 km long and affords great ocean kayaking opportunities. The beach and the surrounding mangroves make this one of the best Negros Island beaches.

Before You Go to the Beach

It's important to be aware of the 'point of departure' for all the Negros Island beaches: Bacolod City. This is a low-key and pleasant city as compared to busy and polluted Filipino urban centres such as Manila and Cebu. If you do spend some time here you'd be advised to stay somewhere clean and of a high standard. The Sylvia Manor in San Juan Street is Bacolod's only boutique hotel famed across the country and beyond for its contemporary amenities, hospitality and perfect location. You can avail yourself of the Wi-Fi access and pick from over 50 well-looked after rooms.