Bantayan Island - The Philippines' Island Paradise

Bantayan Island was actually my first island destination ever since the wanderer side of me busted in. This post may seem very late as I visited the place August of last year but I think it’s only apt to include it on my blog as it was indeed a memorable getaway. It ignited my desire to travel and explore whatever good things this life can offer. I became a fan of beaches because of that trip.

Known as the Philippines’ Island Paradise, Bantayan Island boasts long stretch shoreline and crystal clear water. Though the white sands are not as powdery as that of Panglao Island and Boracay, all else is comparable. I think what made the Island more interesting and famous is that it’s unexplored and more peaceful compared to other top destinations.  It’s simple and quiet.

Bantayan Island is located northwest of Cebu. As there are other beautiful resorts within the Cebu metro area, at first I was reluctant to visit the island as you need to spend almost a day just for travelling alone (round trip).  But because of good reviews of the island and my curiosity, I decided to give it a try. Mind you, I’m not into beaches prior to this trip. I’m more of a fresh water (Hot and cold spring, waterfalls) and pool enthusiast.

Getting to Bantayan Island

Getting to the island is quite long and tiring. But I tell you, it’s worth it. It’s an escape from the noise and bustle of the Cebu City.

1. Go to North Bus Terminal. You can take a cab or the 01K jeep.
2. From the North terminal, bound a bus going to Hagnaya. To have a little comfort for a fairly travel, we took the Ceres aircon bus. Travel time is almost three hours. 
3. From the Hagnaya port, took a Ferry boat to Sta. Fe Bantayan. Travel time is almost one hour. Below is the Ferry trip schedule from Hagnaya - Sta. Fe. 

Upon reaching the port of Sta. Fe, the charming coastline and crystal clear water of Bantayan Island welcomed us. The exhausting feeling we had due to relatively long trip had simply vanished upon seeing the wonderful view, felt the cool sea breeze and fresh air.

Range of Accommodation

There are several resorts in Bantayan Island where you can stay depending on your preference and budget. I've listed a few of them:

• Budyong Beach Resort
  Tel. (63-32) 438-5700, 438-9040
• Kota Beach Resort
  Tel. (63-32)254-2726
• Maia’s Beach Resort
  Tel. (63-32) 438-0077
• Marlin Beach Resort
  Tel. (63-32) 438-9093
• Ogtong Cave Resort
  Tel. (63-32) 438-0031
• Sta.Fe Beach Resort
  Tel. (63-32) 438-0031/ 253-1339

There are actually several personnel from different beach resorts promoting their respective resorts at the port area, so it’s handy just in case you have not made any reservation yet. However, it’s advisable to make your booking ahead of time to ensure room availability especially if it’s peak season.

At the port area, you can actually have a glimpse of Sta. Fe beach club, a famous resort in the area.  It’s very near. However, we have decided to have our accommodation on their sister resort, the Ogtong Cave Resort, as we would like to see other attraction aside from the beach. Ogtong resort has a cave, Minnie zoo and swimming pool. I’ll get into detail about this resort on a separate post.

Island Paradise of the Philippines

True enough, the island is a delight. The beaches are beautiful and what I like most is its serenity. It’s perfect for those beach lovers out there who wants to have a quiet escape. Plus with its great restaurants offering delicious dishes especially sea foods, the place is truly a paradise!

Posted in: Bantayan,Cebu