Travel Guide to Cebu’s sought after beach destination – Bantayan Island!
Bantayan Island has the most beautiful beaches in Cebu. They have kilometers long stretched beaches and aligned coconut trees staring out into the blue sea ahead. It is a laid back but wonderful island destination locals and foreigners couldn’t get enough of.
Bantayan Island got its name from its place in history. There used to be 18 watchtowers in the island built by the Spaniards to keep an eye out for pirates. Bantayan means to look out for in Cebuano, hence its name. Before tourism kicked in, Bantayan was a humble fishing island and has since been a tourism hotspot for the entire Philippines.
There are 3 municipalities on the island, with Sta. Fe being the standout tourist getaway. The rest of the municipalities, Madridejos and Bantayan are more famous for their historical structures that you can visit in the early mornings.
It is best to visit the island during amihan from November to May, the only downside is that it gets crowded. Do you think you’ll visit Bantayan this summer?
How to get to Bantayan?
Easiest way to get to Bantayan
Skip the bothersome commute in public transport and rent a car from us! You can even choose to avail of a with driver service so you (or your family and friends) can rest easy in the back seat, relax, and wait for us to get you to Bantayan!
Whether you are coming from mainland Cebu – we can pick you up and send you straight to Palompon! With a rental, you can save a whole lot of money while also cutting some precious travel time.
Whether you want to use a small sedan or an accommodating van, we can cater your needs with all the rental units we have in store. We have a distinguished collection of rental units at affordable prices!
Book with us now through our Booking Page.
You can also contact us through the following:
[Globe]: 0965 129 6777 or 0955 872 3883
[Smart]: 0907 931 8778 or 0907 931 8774
Email: info@dumagueterentacar.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dumagueterentacarph
Website: https://www.dumagueterentacar.com/
From mainland Cebu to Bantayan
1. Ride a Mybus heading to North Bus Terminal heading to Terminal 1 and 2 of the Mactan Cebu International Airport.
2. At the terminal, ride a Ceres Bus heading to San Remigio.
3. Ask the driver to be alighted at Hagnaya Port.
4. At the port, ride a ferry or fastcraft heading to Sta. Fe, Bantayan Island.
Things to do at Bantayan
1. BALIDBID LAGOON
– This lagoon is located near the hotel accommodations in the island so make sure to pop a visit.
2. KOTA PARK AND RUINS
– The ruins are a sight to see and are a tourist favorite! Snap some photos when you’re here.
3. OBO-OB MANGROVE ECO PARK
– Get educated on mangrove conservation and preservation at the eco park!
4. PARADISE BEACH
– Take a dip at the turquoise waters of Sandira or Paradise Beach! Explore the rock formations nearby too!
5. KOTA BEACH
– Spend a day on the warm white sand and get a tan!
6. ST. PETER AND PAUL PARISH CHURCH
– Drop by the revered chapel in Bantayan Island and marvel at the limestone build.
7. VIRGIN ISLAND
– When you want to go island hopping, make sure to visit Virgin Island too!
8. OGTONG CAVE
– Ogtong Cave has a body of clear water underneath so make sure to wear a bikini under your clothes for that perfect shot!
9. STA. FE BEACH
– Bring along a book and read your favorite novel under a palm tree at this beach!
Rates and Fees
Balibid Lagoon Entrance Fee: ₱ 100 per person
Obo-ob Mangrove Eco-Park Entrance Fee: ₱ 55 per person
Bantayan Island Nature Park Entrance Fee: ₱ 100 per person
Sandira Beach: ₱ 55 per person
Virgin Island Entrance Fee: ₱ 200 per person
Hilantagaan Island Entrance Fee: ₱ 100 per person
Ogtong Cave Entrance Fee: ₱ 200 per person
Boat Rental: ₱ 400 per person
Accommodations Fee: depending on the place
How to Contact?
You can contact Carl’s Island Inn through the following:
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100054632041956
You can contact Anahaw Seaside Inn through the following:
Mobile No.: 0908 134 6246
Email: info@anahawseaside@gmail.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088151346627
You can contact Paradise Beach Guest House through the following:
Mobile No.: 0961 302 9432
Email: paradisebeachguesthouse@gmail.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paradisebeachguesthouse
You can contact Jelly’s Haven Resort through the following:
Telephone No.: (032) 326 9150
Email: jellyshavenresort@gmail.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jellyshavenresort
You can contact Kota Beach Resort through the following:
Email: reservation@kotabeachresort.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kotabeachresort
To bring when visiting Bantayan
1. Bring cash because the ATMs are only in the town proper on the island.
2. Bring cover ups because walking around in swimwear is discouraged.
3. Bring coral-friendly sunscreen.
4. Bring along a powerbank for your use when island-hopping.
Reminders when visiting Bantayan
1. Most of the establishments in Bantayan operate on a cash basis.
2. Only wear your bikini when swimming or at the beach.
3. Pasalubong like buwad (dried fish) are cheaper in Bantayan than in mainland Cebu.
4. Most of the best places to eat are located around MJ Square.
5. If you go island hopping on your terms, buy food in advance to bring during your trip.
6. Always ask locals or staff where it is safe to swim.
7. Do not leave your things unattended.