Bantayan Island, the "Island Paradise in the Philippines", is one of the prides of Asia. This wonderland never failed to attract many tourists because of its lovable crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, underwater surprises and appetizing cuisines of the country. Being the “Egg Basket of Visayas” and the fishing ground of Cebu, it is no other than the “Island of Plenty”.
Geographically situated at the center of the Philippines, Bantayan Island is one of the islands in the province of Cebu. It is located northwestern side of Cebu, 80 miles from the city proper and northeastern part of Negros Oriental.
Bantayan Island is the biggest of all the islands of Cebu with the diameter of 7 miles wide, stretching 10 miles with 20 other islets for another 5 miles. During low tide, some of the islets are accessible by foot.
It has three municipalities namely: Madridejos, Santa Fe and Bantayan. Madridejos is situated at the northern most part of the island while Santa Fe is at the southeast part. The town proper, Bantayan, rest in the southwestern part of the island.
Aside from being the fishing ground in Cebu where tons of fish were transported to Cebu and Negros, Bantayan also living as the “Egg Basket of Visayas”. Almost half million eggs daily were supplied to mainland Cebu and other neighboring islands like Panay, Leyte and Negros. Residents are also in into rock phosphate and limestone mining.
Bantayan boasts of several natural and historic landscapes. There are the 405-year-old church and the one and a half century house of Anun Escario. Among of the few sites are the Ogtong Cave and other caves used as refuge of the Spanish soldiers once and great beaches found only in Bantayan.
Bantayan Island is one of Cebu’s best kept secrets. This splendid tropical paradise is one in Asia and known as the “Island Paradise of the Philippines”. Away from the hurly-burly lifestyles of city, the island is best remembered of its tranquility in mind and spirit and the simplicity it offers.
The peacefulness of the place is one of the criteria for best resorts. No big malls, extravagant hotels, movie centers or noisy discos, the island is a realm of antiquation and undeveloped commercialism where life pace seems so slow yet rousing, monotonous but cannot get enough of. It is not over crowded and prices are not overly-charged unless for peak seasons.
You cannot resist its cooling refreshment of its crystal clear waters in blue-green and the extensive powdery white sand. Rocky shores are also smiling on the other part of the island. Bordered by the fantastic view of untamed tropical plants, stunning sunsets for lovers and friendly natives, Bantayan Island is a haven beyond compare under blue skies and away from impurities. A stay for few days is a dream come true.
Not just the place and the friendly attitudes make the island very endearing to trippers. The food is great and the cuisines are impressive. Combination of Filipino, Thai, Japanese and European cuisines are served. Sea foods are abundant such as fishes, crabs, lobsters and shrimps, all are guaranteed fresh from the day’s catch. They are known for its famed dried fish especially "Danggit" and squid. Choices of fruit shakes and its combination are served at your convenience.
Some of the resorts include Kota Beach, Marlin Beach Resort, Sta. Fe Beach Club, Budyong Beach Resort, Ogtong Cave Resort and many cheaper resorts for modest visitors. Many foreigners feel in love of the place in its first glimpse and decided to settle there for the rest of their lives. Instead of building a single cottage, several cottages were constructed to accommodate the outgrowing number of tourists.
Aside from being the “Island Paradise of the country”, Bantayan Island is unquestionable when it comes to its unwavering faith in God. It is also termed as the “Lenten Capital of the Visayas”, wherein many people from other provinces as far as Manila would go to Bantayan to witness the Holy Week Presentation and procession of the religious images and symbols of the Passion of Christ, and at the same time, took time to have a swim and have some peace of mind. During Lent, Sta. Fe is the busiest town for accommodating reservations for resorts. Booking must be made six months ahead of time.
Although, there are less outdoor water-activities and diving as well are not so popular because of the fear for blasting dynamites which cannot be easily eradicated, a stay is worth in this charming little paradise.
How to get there:
From Cebu City, daily busses traveled to the northeast part of Cebu, in Hagnaya, San Remegio. It took two to three hours upon reaching Hagnaya pier where many boats and ferries transport you to Bantayan Island in an hour. Fast crafts like Ocean jets and hydrofoils are other transportation alternative to the island. Within the island, touring the entire Bantayan is not difficult. No traffic and the roads are good. There are busses and tricycles. Bikes and motorbikes are also available for rent.
