5Freedom Island Beach, Philippines

Why It’s the Worst: Considered a dumping ground for garbage.
Freedom Island Beach, located near Manila, is infamous for the sheer volume of trash that blankets its shoreline.

As one of the worst polluted beaches in the Philippines, it serves as a sobering reminder of the country’s plastic waste crisis. Freedom Island Beach was initially designated as a sanctuary for migratory birds, but over the years, the accumulation of garbage has made it nearly unrecognizable. The once-picturesque setting is now covered with plastic, wrappers, and other waste, particularly during monsoon season.

What to Expect: Overwhelming amounts of garbage, very few visitors, and disappointing views of plastic-filled shores instead of clear blue waters.