Hello Hivers! For today’s blog, I want to share one of the most relaxing and peaceful trips I’ve ever had. It was our visit to Olango Island in Lapu Lapu City, Cebu. If you are someone who loves nature, the sea, and the quietness away from the busy city, then this place is definitely for you. I did not expect that such a beautiful and calm island is just a short boat ride away from the city. It truly felt like a breath of fresh air.
Olango Island is a small island located east of Mactan Island and is part of Lapu Lapu City. It is known for its natural beauty and for being home to the famous Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary. The island is surrounded by clear blue water, soft white sand, and tall mangrove trees that make it look so peaceful. What makes it even more special is that it serves as a stopover for migratory birds coming from different parts of the world. Because of this, Olango has been recognized internationally as an important wetland area that needs to be protected.
Our journey to Olango Island started early in the morning. We went to the port in Lapu Lapu City where boats regularly travel to Olango. The boat ride only took about 15 - 20 minutes, and the moment we reached the island, I already felt a sense of calm. The air was fresh, the waves were gentle, and the locals were very friendly. You could immediately tell that the island life there moves at a slower, more peaceful pace.
After we arrived, the first thing we did was look for a place to eat. We found a small eatery that served sisig, one of my favorite Filipino dishes. Even though it was a simple meal, it tasted really good, maybe because we were already hungry from the trip. We sat by the beach while eating, watching the waves roll to the shore, and it felt so relaxing. After eating, we decided to walk around and explore the island. There were plenty of trees and open spaces, and the sound of the birds and the waves made the whole experience feel magical.
We saw locals going about their day, some fishing while others were selling fresh seafood. The place felt so alive despite of it being a small island. The people in Olango live simple lives, mostly depending on fishing and seaweed farming. You can really see how close they are to nature and how they take care of their surroundings.
One of the things I loved most about Olango Island is how perfect it is for unwinding. If you want to relax and escape from stress, this is the place to be. You can sit by the beach, listen to the waves, and just let your mind rest. The island also offers overnight camping for those who want to stay longer. You can bring your own tent and camp by the shore. I am not sure if there are stores that rent tents there, so it’s better to bring your own just to be sure. Camping by the sea while listening to the sound of the waves is something I will never forget. It gives a feeling of peace that you can’t find in the city.
During our stay, we also waited for the sunset, and it was truly breathtaking. The sky slowly changed colors from blue to orange and pink, reflecting beautifully on the calm water. I took a lot of photos, but no picture can fully capture how beautiful it looked in person.
Just a short background, aside from its natural beauty, Olango Island also has an interesting history. Long ago, it was a simple fishing community, but it slowly became known because of its rich biodiversity. In 1992, the Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary was officially established to protect the many species of birds and marine life that live there. The sanctuary covers around a thousand hectares of mangroves, mudflats, and coral reefs. Because of this, Olango has become one of the most important bird-watching spots in the Philippines. Many visitors from around the world come to see the migratory birds that stop here during certain seasons. These birds travel thousands of kilometers, and Olango becomes their temporary home.
Aside from the sanctuary, the island also has beautiful marine sanctuaries that are perfect for snorkeling and diving. The water is clear and filled with colorful corals and fish. Even if you are not into diving, just walking around and seeing the mangroves and seagrass beds already gives you a deeper appreciation for nature. The local government and the people are working hard to protect the island’s natural environment because they know how important it is for the future.
If you ever plan to visit Olango Island, getting there is easy. From Lapu Lapu City, you can go to Angasil Port in Punta Engaño where boats are available to take you to the island. The regular fare is only 30 pesos, 24 pesos if you're a student or a senior citizen, and only 10 pesos for the kids. The boat ride only lasts about 15-20 minutes and once you arrive, you can rent a bicycle or a tricycle to go around. It’s a simple and peaceful adventure that’s worth the time.
My experience at Olango Island was unforgettable. It is one of those places where you can truly disconnect from the noise of the world and connect with nature instead. The people are kind, the food is delicious, and the views are stunning. Whether you are traveling with friends, family, or even alone, this island will give you the peace and relaxation you are looking for. It’s not just a tourist spot, but also a place where you can reflect and feel grateful for the simple things in life.
That’s all for my blog about Olango Island. I hope you enjoyed reading about my experience. If you are looking for a place to unwind, watch a beautiful sunset, and feel close to nature, then Olango Island is definitely the place to go. See you on my next blog!