Bantayan Island
Philippines is a popular destination in terms of beaches. Boracay, Palawan, Siargao, and Cebu are the popular provinces that offer white-sand beaches. Bantayan island is a popular beach in Cebu province located in the northern part of Cebu. The island is located at the end part of the province however, it is not part of the Cebu island it is a separate island.
When my second eldest sister came home from abroad, our family planned on going to the famous Bantayan island here in Cebu. We booked an affordable package that would accommodate and tour us on the island. On the dawn of October 30, we left our home, and at exactly 4 am we arrived at the Cebu North Bus Terminal. The bus fare ranges from 150 to 200 pesos. We ride the bus for 5 hours and reach the Daan Bantayan or known as Hagnaya. Daan bantayan is the end of the Cebu province when going north. From this town, you need to ride a barge along with the bus. The barge fee is around 200 pesos. We ride the barge for almost 1 hour and finally, we reach the mind-blowing island of Bantayan. As you arrive on the island, a white-sand pier will welcome you.
We stayed in St Fe., a barangay which is near the pier. The famous beaches are located in this town. From the pier, the house that we rented is only a few meters away. We walk from the pier to our rented house and enjoy the province life ambiance. When we arrive the first we do is eat. We haven't eaten anything when we left. The funny part is that we didn't bring any food with us and finding food to eat is really a struggle. Also, one of the unique things you will find in Bantayan Island is their public transportation. A motor that is formed into a jeep is used by many tourists to travel the island.
After we have eaten, we decided to tour the island using the motorcub provided by the In. The first destination we have chosen is the Omagieca Obo-ob Mangrove Garden. The tourist spot is located only a few meters from where we stayed. The mangrove garden is famous for its saying the CAMP SAWI & CAMP WAGI. We spent almost 2 hours walking and taking pictures in the wooden pathway that lead into the ocean.
The next tourist spot we visited is the famous THE RUINS. These tourist spot is heavily crowded because of the nice view is provided when taking pictures. I think the place is named the ruins because a ruin house is located near in the area. We didn't stay in the place too long because we badly want to go swimming.
Paradise beach is where we decided to swim and chill. The place is amazing and pure because it is not develop by the government keeping the place natural beauty. We spent our whole afternoon in the area swimming and taking some photos. (In most photos in the area I was not included because I was the photographer).
Around 5 pm we decided to go back in our In and rest. And because we didn't bring anything to eat, we need to find a place to eat for dinner. Thus, 10 meters ways from our In a food station is located, different types of the restaurant provide different type of menus for the tourist. Seafood is popular in Bantayan, they always that is you want fresh seafood Bantayan island is a great place. My family decided to eat in a buffet with seafood as its main course. Crab, shrimp, lobster and etc. are served in the restaurant.
After we have eaten our dinner we decided to relax in our In and sleep early to wake up early the next day and witness the sunrise. Thus, the weather is not on our side. it is cloudy and strong waves are present, canceling our tour in the virgin island. So, we decided to eat breakfast early and go to Cogtong beach, a beach famous for its small circular sand bar.
Our last destination is the Ogtong cave, this resort is known for its small cave with a crystal clear water. The resort also has a pool and beach. We spent all of our time there before going home.
Its time to go home. we have stayed on the Bantayan Island for 2 days and 2 night. It is an amazing and relaxing experience because I am with my family. Bantayan Island is a must-go tourist spot. I would recommend staying for a week to be able to visit all the tours.
