Bantayan Travel Guide
If what you’re looking for in the Philippines is paradise beaches of white sand, turquoise waters, and beautiful coconut palms, Bantayan is your spot! And if you don’t like crowds, you’ve hit the mark! This island is far from being one of the most touristy in the archipelago, so it’s very likely you can enjoy those beach paradises almost all to yourself. Don’t think twice? Then keep reading because in this Guide to Bantayan we’re going to reveal all its secrets: how to get there, things to do in Bantayan, where to stay, and a few tips that will come in handy if you’re planning to travel the Philippines independently.
Located north of Cebu, Bantayan is an island that won’t let you down if, on your trip to the Philippines, you’re after white-sand beaches, turquoise waters and palm trees, but you also value a peaceful vibe and moderate prices for lodging and food. Bantayan is perfect for a few days of rest, as there isn’t much beyond its beaches and the odd bar where you can have a San Miguel after dinner while listening to live music. Although it doesn’t quite win us over 100% and we can’t help comparing it with what we consider almost our home in the Philippines, Bantayan, we’ve explored it thoroughly. In this guide to Bantayan we’re going to tell you which are the best beaches, as well as other things to do in Bantayan, the best way to get there, and where to stay.
THINGS TO DO IN BANTAYAN
We know you’re coming for the island’s coral beaches in the Visayas, but there are many more things to do. Did you know you can even go skydiving? In this guide to Bantayan you have a brief summary of what you can see and do:
- Beaches: long stretches of fine, white sand, starfish, the odd sandbar… Paradise Beach (also called Sandira), Kota Beach and Sugar Beach are some of the best beaches in Bantayan.
- Island hopping: although it doesn’t reach Palawan’s level, from Bantayan you can take a trip to Virgin Island. It’s not very “virgin” anymore, but you’ll like its white-sand beaches.
- Take a mangrove tour: Obo-Ob Mangrove EcoPark gives you the chance to enjoy this ecosystem.
- Raise your adrenaline levels: Bantayan is one of the few places in the Philippines where you can go skydiving. It’s also an ideal place for kitesurfing.
- Do absolutely nothing: that’s the best. As soon as you arrive on this island your heartbeat will slow down. Santa Fe, although it already has several modern restaurants and bars, is a very quiet town that still preserves that local vibe we look for when we travel.
Our advice in this guide to Bantayan is to devote at least 2 full days to Bantayan. Still, if you’re coming here to relax, try to give it at least a couple more days. Discover everything you can do in Bantayan:
HOW TO GET TO BANTAYAN
The best way to reach Bantayan is from Cebu City and it’s relatively straightforward by combining land transport and ferry. You can also hop over from Malapascua by private bangka or by public transport. Although Bantayan has an airport, the truth is that the only airline that used to operate (Air Juan) is almost bankrupt and we don’t recommend risking flying with them, as they tend to cancel their flights on short notice.
In this guide to Bantayan we only give you an introduction. Here we tell you all the details and the different ways to do it:
WHERE TO EAT IN BANTAYAN
In Bantayan you’ll find a wide variety of places to eat, have dinner and even grab a drink while you enjoy an epic sunset. From the typical carenderías where you’ll enjoy cheap, local dishes to all kinds of international plates that will satisfy both your hunger for pizza and those more international cravings. Korean, Greek, Mexican flavors… whatever it is!
After several visits to the island, we’ve prepared this guide to Bantayan in which we reveal the best places to eat. Don’t miss it!
WHERE TO STAY IN BANTAYAN
Santa Fe, besides being the town closest to this island’s beautiful beaches, is the municipality where most of the hostels and hotels where to stay in Bantayan are concentrated. You’ll find all kinds of hotels: from hostels with good value for money to small beachfront resorts with more comforts. Although the accommodation offer can’t be compared to that of other places in the Philippines (which also gives it its charm), you won’t run out of options for your budget.
Find our selection of places to stay in Bantayan:
TIPS TO VISIT BANTAYAN
- HOW MANY DAYS TO DEDICATE? At least 2 full ones, but if possible 3 or more. Keep in mind you’ll have to invest at least 1 day to get there and another to get back.
- BEST TIME TO VISIT BANTAYAN: from November to May is usually the best time, especially in the months between February and April. Although Bantayan is a quiet island, if you plan to visit during Holy Week, Christmas and local holidays, keep in mind you’ll need to book hotels in advance.
- HOW TO GET AROUND BANTAYAN? If you’re curious, you can rent a motorbike and discover different parts of the island, but you have everything within walking distance. If you feel like going to Bantayan’s capital, you can move around by tricycle or motorelas.
- HEALTH IN BANTAYAN: healthcare infrastructure on the island is very basic. If you have an accident (hopefully not), you’ll need to be transferred urgently. Hence the importance of traveling with good travel medical insurance like ours. Plus, we give you a 5% discount.
- MONEY IN BANTAYAN: in Bantayan City you have a couple of ATMs and one has recently opened in Santa Fe. Even so, since ATMs sometimes break down, try to carry cash with you. You can also change money at Palawan Pawnshop.