Uncover the best beaches, accommodation, restaurants, activities, and more on this ultimate guide to Bantayan Island from a local.
Bantayan Island is a small island in the Visayas region of the Philippines, located off the coast of Cebu.
Known for its white-sand beaches, clear waters, and laid-back atmosphere, this enchanting paradise offers a breathtaking beauty and unforgettable experiences for visitors.
I wan born and raised in Bantayan island which is why I am excited to share my insider tips and recommendations for visiting this enchanting paradise.
Join me on a journey through Bantayan Island and discover its breathtaking beauty, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences.
When to visit
The best time to visit Bantayan Island is during the dry season, which runs from March to May. The weather is warm and sunny, and the water is clear and calm.
For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (mid-January to February and September to mid-December) to avoid the peak crowds.
Avoid the monsoon season on June to August.
Getting there
Getting to Bantayan is fairly easy.
- Start by flying into Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB) in Cebu City.
- From there, head to the North Bus Terminal and catch a bus bound for Hagnaya Port. The bus journey takes approximately four hours.
- At Hagnaya Port, take a ferry to Santa Fe Port on Bantayan Island, which takes about an hour.
Fastest way to reach Island
Take a 45-minute flight from Mactan Domestic Airport to Sta. Fe Airport through Air Island Tours.
Getting around
The best way to get around Bantayan Island is by tricycle or jeepney.
Tricycles are small, three-wheeled vehicles that can seat up to 4 people, while jeepneys are larger and can seat up to 12 people.
Both options are affordable and can take you to most places on the island. Some resorts also offer shuttle services to and from the main town of Sta. Fe.
Accommodation
Bantayan Island offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences.
Budget-friendly accommodation
If you’re on a budget, you can find rooms in hostels for as little as $10 per night.
- Stevrena Cottages is an ideal choice for budget-conscious travelers looking for a quiet retreat away from the bustling crowds. The charming cottages provide a comfortable stay with basic amenities and a tranquil atmosphere.
- Bantayan Island Nature Park Resort is another budget option, surrounded by lush greenery and offering various accommodation options, a swimming pool, mini zoo, and recreational activities.
- Casa Isabel Hostel in the heart of Sta. Fe is a vibrant and welcoming accommodation option with dormitory-style rooms and private rooms, catering to backpackers and budget-conscious travelers.
Luxury resorts
For a more luxurious stay, there are several resorts on the island that offer rooms with private balconies and stunning ocean views.
- Anika Island Resort offers beachfront accommodation with cozy rooms and cottages, a restaurant, and a beachfront bar.
- Ogtong Cave Resort offers a unique experience with rooms and cottages nestled around a natural cave pool, along with a swimming pool and direct access to a secluded beach.
- La Playa Estrella Beach Resort, located near Santa Fe Beach, offers beachfront accommodation, a restaurant, and a relaxing garden area.
Local experience
For a more laid-back atmosphere, consider exploring accommodation options in smaller villages like Madridejos or Bantayan Town.
Things to Do on Bantayan Island
Bantayan Island offers a variety of activities and attractions for both tourists and locals to enjoy.
- Relax on the Beach
- White Beach: A long stretch of white sand with clear waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
- Paradise Beach (Sandira Beach): A secluded tropical paradise with powdery white sand, turquoise waters, and stunning panoramic views.
- Take a Boat to Virgin Island or nearby islands
Hire a boat from nearby beaches to visit the stunning Virgin Island, a small paradise just off the coast of Bantayan Island. Enjoy snorkeling, exploring the island, and jumping off exciting platforms. Or, take the boat to visit nearby islands such as Hilantagaan, Malapascua, etc
- Try Fresh Seafood
Indulge in grilled fish, prawns, crabs, and squid, freshly caught and bursting with flavor. Bantayan Island is a seafood lover’s paradise.
- Learn Kitesurfing
Experience the exhilarating water sport of kitesurfing on Bantayan Island, known for its consistent seabreeze and beautiful coastline. Seabreeze Kite Club offers lessons for beginners and experienced riders in a safe environment.
- Rent a Motorbike
Explore the island’s scenic roads, discover hidden gems, and enjoy breathtaking views at your own pace. Renting a motorbike offers convenience and freedom to immerse yourself in the beauty of Bantayan Island.
- Attend Holy Week Festivities
Experience the vibrant and culturally significant Holy Week in Bantayan Island. Witness the Good Friday procession known as the “Sugat,” enjoy the Stations of the Cross, and attend Easter Sunday Masses. Taste the unique tradition of indulging in meat dishes, including the famous Bantayan Lechon.
- Admire St. Peter and Paul Church
Visit the enchanting St. Peter and Paul Church in Bantayan Town, a captivating sight with Spanish colonial architecture that reflects the island’s rich history and Catholic heritage.
- Discover Kota Park
Located in Madridejos, Kota Park offers a delightful blend of history and natural beauty. Take a leisurely stroll, marvel at the remnants of a Spanish-era fort, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Best Restaurants on Bantayan Island
When it comes to dining on Bantayan Island, you’ll find a vibrant culinary scene offering a diverse array of flavors and experiences.
- Bantayan Burrito Company: Experience authentic Mexican flavors in the heart of Bantayan Island.
- Santa Fe Beach Club: Indulge in delectable cuisine while enjoying breathtaking ocean views.
- HR Music Bar & Native Restaurant: Enjoy live music and mouthwatering Filipino dishes for a lively dining experience.
- Stumble Inn Beach Club: Located on the beachfront, this restaurant is known for delicious calamari, ribs, and vegetarian options.
- Thai-Phoon Restaurant: Discover the flavors of Thailand with classic Thai dishes and refreshing desserts.
FAQs about Bantayan Island
You can reach Bantayan Island by taking a domestic flight to Cebu City, then traveling by land to Hagnaya Port, and finally, taking a ferry to the island. Alternatively, you can also take a direct flight to Santa Fe Airport if available.
The island is renowned for its stunning beaches, such as Paradise Beach, Santa Fe Beach, and Virgin Island. Other notable attractions include the historic Bantayan Church, Kota Park in Madridejos, and the beautiful sunset viewpoints.
Yes, there are various water sports and activities in the island, including snorkeling, diving, island hopping, and kitesurfing. Seabreeze Kite Club is a popular establishment for kitesurfing lessons and rentals.
Yes, Bantayan Island offers a range of budget-friendly accommodations, including guesthouses, hostels, and cottages. Some recommended options are Casa Isabel Hostel, Stevrena Cottages, and Bantayan Island Nature Park and Resort.
The island offers a diverse culinary scene, with a variety of restaurants, seafood shacks, and local eateries. You can enjoy fresh seafood, traditional Filipino dishes, international cuisine, and even Mexican-inspired burritos at Bantayan Burrito Company.
Yes, it is known for its vibrant Holy Week celebrations, particularly the processions and reenactments of the crucifixion during Good Friday. This annual event attracts both locals and tourists.
It is advisable to bring enough cash as there are limited ATMs on the island, and they may run out of cash at times. Some establishments may accept credit cards, but it’s always better to have cash on hand for convenience.
Make memories in Bantayan Island
Visiting Bantayan Island is an unforgettable experience that offers pristine beaches, captivating marine life, warm-hearted locals, and a rich cultural heritage.
Follow this local’s guide and unlock the hidden gems of Bantayan Island to discover its beauty, tranquility, and the genuine warmth of the Bantayanon. This beautiful paradise is only one out of over 7,000 islands of the Philippines, where you can truly feel relaxed and rejuvenated.
Plan your trip, immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery, and create memories that will last a lifetime.