I have visited Bantayan Island for a couple of times already but the excitement is always there every time I hear the island's name. I could perfectly picture out the crystal clear water, white sandy beaches, the fresh sea breeze, pleasant local folks, and delicious foods.
I was able to stay in Ogtong Cave and Resort, Sugar Beach Resort and visited Virgin Island few years ago. Sugar beach is actually one of my personal favorites and I unconsciously compared it to Boracay's beach and shore (yikes!). Anyway, I was so hyped to be back there; however, I just knew that it is temporarily closed since the death of the owner and due to some family issues. Moving on, during my recent stay in the island, I was able to visit more places together with my favorite travel buddies. I would be glad to share to you guys our 3 days and 2 nights itinerary. Enjoy!
First, how to go to Bantayan Island?
If you're coming from different parts of the country and of the world, take a flight going to Cebu City and when you arrived in Mactan International Airport, you can ride a taxi going to Cebu North Bus. From there, you have two options: take a bus going to Bantayan proper or take a bus going to Hagnaya (which is more preferable if you wish to visit more resorts in good proximity). The aircon bus fare will cost you Php225 or Php180, respectively. If you'll be taking the Hagnaya route, you will arrive at their port and you have to buy a ferry ticket which costs Php170 and prepare as well Php20 for the terminal fee. They strictly follow trips - 4AM, 7AM, 8AM, 10:30 AM, 12:30PM, 2:30PM, and 4:30 PM. After an hour, you will be welcomed by the breathtaking scenery of the island and the glistening blue water of Santa Fe. Non-locals will be asked to register and will be given a slip which they have to present to their respective beach resorts where they will stay. There are motorcycles available around that can take you to your destination or if you wish, you cant rent a bike for a hundred per day or motorbike which costs Php350-Php500 per day.
Where to stay?
There's a wide variety of beach resorts to choose from. If you're on a budget travel, there are also a lot of affordable accommodations. Just make sure to book your rooms ahead before the place will be fully booked especially during peak seasons. For our accommodation, we stayed at CouCou Bar and Restaurant for Php 1,300 per night (good for 3 pax). How cheap is that?! It is located at the center which is very accessible to the market, sari-sari stores, pera padala centers, and other bar and restaurants. By the way, we booked our rooms through the Agoda application. They give good deals and discounts!
Day 1:
We arrived late afternoon just in time for sunset, so after we had a super late lunch, we went to Kota Beach (popularly known as Camp Sawi after the movie) which is just three minutes away from where we stayed. There we enjoyed the beautiful sunset and cotton candy skies.
Welcomed our first night with a drinking and karaoke session at Ato Ni Bai Restobar. We were singing our hearts out and we never knew our voices could be heard by mostly everyone nearby! We realized that when we were already in our rooms which are meters away from the bar (haha).
Day 2:
Before we went to our beds the last night, we booked a day tour in the island via motorcycle for only P1200 and it's good for 4 pax. The kuya driver will take you to all the most visited places in the island and the good thing is, you may customize your trip too! Make sure to do a little research before your travel date to plan your itinerary ahead.
1. Ogtong Cave
2. The Ruins
Kuya driver shared to us the sad story behind this beautifully situated supposed-to-be house. Years ago, this was owned by a foreigner who was robbed and killed in his own abode. The house was left unattended after that incident. Now, doodles are all over the wall and this place has become a tourist spot not just because of its amazing view but has also become a perfect spot for cliff diving.
3. Omagieca Mangrove Garden
4. Langub
Our guide took us here which a "secret spot" and known only to the locals. Dropped by here when we were on our way to Bantayan proper. By the way, I would like to share that they have a policy there that tricycles from Sta. Fe are not allowed to cross Bantayan proper for tours since tricycles are separated by municipalities. Kuya driver was so kind to us that he somewhat broke the rules. After Langub, we had our lunch at Bantayan Market where there are a lot of barbecue stalls. Unfortunately, Kuya driver's attention was called by one of the government officials due to some tricycle drivers who complained. Of course, he had our backs. We pretended to be his cousins! To make the story short, kuya driver left the police station without any charges or offenses. Ha! :P
5. Paradise Beach
6. MJ Square for dinner
Day 3:
Finally we were able to visit Kota beach during the day where we ate breakfast and took a quick dip in the crystal clear water. I swear this is also one of my favorite beaches in Bantayan next to Sugar Beach. Make sure to visit there during both high tide and low tide. You'll surely enjoy!
Before we departed, we had our lunch in Ritzy's which is 10-15 minutes away from the port. Look at that artsy interiors and attractive view by the beach.
The beach water here is so close to Sugar Beach's. Simply staring at it entices you to jump off which actually happened to my boyfriend (hahaha). The water is so stunning that you really can't resist!
Here's a link to my simple compilation of our Bantyan Escapade. Don't forget to subscribe!
P.S. Currently exploring and learning the new video editor I am using. :)
♡ ♡ ♡
Sincerely, Bethel
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