Bantayan Island, a hidden gem in the Visayan Sea, reveals the mysteries of idyllic days and enchanted nights. The sun-drenched sands sparkle like diamonds, while the ocean’s vibrant turquoise hues paint a picturesque backdrop for your dreams. The island’s allure lingers long after your departure, beckoning you to return and experience its magic once again. Bantayan Island
Unwinding in Paradise:
Bantayan extends a warm invitation and offers vast stretches immaculate shorelines for your enjoyment. Santa Fe provides a splendid setting with its soft, white sand and calm waves, ideal for leisurely sunbathing and playful sandcastle construction. For a more serene experience, explore the picturesque Virgin Beach, where the water is transparent and the tranquility is only interrupted by the gentle rustling of palm leaves in the breeze.
A cluster of buddies giggling and frolicking in the pristine aquamarine waves of Virgin Beach, encircled by vibrant foliage. Bantayan Island
Adventures for the Soul:
A diver exploring the vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful marine life.
The beauty of Bantayan goes beyond its sandy shores. Immerse yourself in the lively underwater realm, where coral reefs are teeming with activity and vibrant fish gracefully navigate through sunlit waters. Those seeking excitement can partake in adrenaline-inducing activities like kite surfing and cliff diving, while exploring nearby islands will uncover hidden pockets of tranquility such as secret coves and secluded lagoons. Bantayan Island
A Taste of Culture:
Bantayan’s appeal extends beyond its exquisite landscape. Indulge in the genuine warmth of the residents, whose joyous expressions mirror the island’s radiant sun. Delight in the flavorsome seafood found in regional cuisine such as Kinilaw, a zesty dish reminiscent of ceviche, and groove to the lively beats of island music.
Under the glittering night sky, villagers from the local community are engaging in the playing of traditional instruments and the enchanting act of singing. Bantayan Island
Beyond the Sunset:
A pair of individuals savoring an intimate dinner illuminated by flickering candles, situated on the sandy shore, while the moon radiates a shimmering light upon the ocean.
As the sun sets below the horizon, casting vibrant colors across the sky, Bantayan undergoes a romantic transformation. Indulge in an intimate beach dinner illuminated by flickering candles, accompanied by the soothing lullaby of the gentle waves. Alternatively, come together with friends around a bonfire, exchanging tales and laughter beneath a starry sky ablaze with twinkling lights. Bantayan Island
A Tour Guide to Bantayan Island
How to Get to Bantayan Island?
Bantayan Island is inaccessible by direct flights from airports outside of Cebu. Thus, travelers from other regions must first fly into Mactan-Cebu International Airport, the primary hub for accessing Cebu’s top destinations, before proceeding to Bantayan Island.
By Flights
Cebu can be reached via air travel from various domestic and international locations. Flights from major cities in the Philippines, as well as international airports in South Korea, Taiwan, Singapore, Japan, Hong Kong, and Malaysia, all offer direct routes to Cebu. The flight duration from Manila to Cebu is a brief 1 hour.
Once you land at Cebu Airport, you will need to choose between two options to reach Bantayan Island. The first option is to board a bus and then transfer to a Roll-On Roll-Off (RoRo) vehicle, which takes approximately 5-6 hours. Alternatively, you can take a connecting flight from Cebu Airport to Bantayan Airport, which has a duration of around 40 minutes. Here is a detailed breakdown of your travel choices to Bantayan Island upon arrival in Cebu City.
North Bus Terminal + Ferry
After arriving at Cebu’s Mactan International Airport, you can catch the MyBus shuttle to reach the North Bus Terminal. From there, you have two options to get to Santa Fe in Bantayan. You can either take a direct bus that includes the RoRo ferry onboard, or you can opt for the bus that will take you to Hagnaya Port where you’ll need to transfer your luggage and board the RoRo ferry. The fare for either option ranges from PHP160 to PHP200.
Buses depart from the terminal hourly, both during the day with a travel duration of approximately 4 hours. The RoRo journey lasts around 1.5 hours and has a price of PHP170. Upon reaching Santa Fe, all visitors or non-residents are required to pay a green fee of PHP 30.
Air Juan – Connecting Flights
If you are willing to spend more money and want to avoid the lengthy bus and RoRo journey, you have the option to take a private plane from Cebu City instead. Air Juan is the sole company offering chartered flights from Mactan-Cebu International Airport to Bantayan Airport, which is a small local airport located in Santa Fe. The travel duration is approximately 40 minutes.
If you’re on a direct bus, you don’t need to get off at the Sante Fe Port. The bus will continue on its route to Bantayan Town, where most of the resorts are located. You can ask the conductor to let you off at the nearest unloading area to your resort.
Upon arriving at the terminal, you’ll find tricycles available to transport you to the RoRo. Alternatively, you can arrange for a shuttle service from your resort to the terminal in advance.
Exploring Bantayan Island: Transportation Choices for Your Adventure
Jeepney or Multicab
In Bantayan Island, the traditional Filipino jeepney and its smaller counterpart, the multicab, are widely used for transportation. These vehicles are ideal for traveling between municipalities, such as from Santa Fe to Bantayan or Madridejos and back.
The vehicle’s capacity ranges from accommodating a minimum of 6 individuals to a maximum of 18, which means that the driver will probably make intermittent stops to collect additional passengers.
If you’re looking to explore Bantayan Island with a group, you can hire a jeepney or multicab for the day. It’s best to negotiate with the driver beforehand to ensure a smooth and enjoyable tour. The cost of hiring the vehicle will depend on your agreement with the driver.
Tricycle or Habal-Habal
For those traveling alone or with a small group, there are two transportation options available: the tricycle, a motorcycle with a sidecar that can accommodate 2-4 passengers, and the habal-habal, a vehicle suitable for 1-2 passengers.
You can utilize these as your means of transportation whether you are traveling for short or long distances on the island. Additionally, they can also transport you to less frequented locations on the island. Moreover, you have the option to rent them for a full day for inland tours. The cost will vary based on your agreement with the driver.
Pedicab
The trisikad, which is a popular local form of the tricycle, is available in non-motorized options. These are commonly seen in Santa Fe and are ideal for convenient transportation over short distances within the town.
Motorcycle and Bicycle for Rent
Just like Siargao and other islands in the Philippines, Bantayan Island is also popular among travelers who prefer to explore on their own using rented motorcycles. These vehicles are typically 110cc to 125cc and can be hired on a daily basis.
For a minimalist pedal experience, single-speed bicycles are available for rent, much like motorcycles. Enjoy a discounted rate when you rent one for three days or more, making it an affordable transportation option for your entire stay.
Private Van
For a comfortable and hassle-free way to explore Bantayan Island, consider hiring a private van with both a driver and guide at your disposal. This will allow you to traverse the island in style and comfort, without the need to worry about navigating unfamiliar roads or finding transportation.
