Escape the crowds and uncover one of Cebu Province’s most underrated destinations—Bantayan Island. Whether you’re planning to relax by the shore, go on a thrilling island-hopping escapade, or dive into the freshest seafood feasts, Bantayan Island tours promise a perfect mix of adventure and tranquility.
Located at the northern tip of Cebu Province, this idyllic island paradise offers powdery white sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, and a laid-back charm that’s hard to resist.
In this travel guide, you’ll find everything you need to know—from the best time to visit, how to get there, and top attractions in Bantayan Island, to the best resorts and local eats. If you’re dreaming of sun, sea, and sand without the usual crowds, be sure to include Bantayan Island in your Cebu Province vacation itinerary.
More than just a beach destination, Bantayan Island also offers a glimpse into local history and folklore. Its name comes from “Bantayan sa Hari,” or “Watchtowers of the King,” a reference to the 18 lookouts built during Spanish colonial times to defend against Moro pirate raids.
Today, remnants of this past blend with vibrant marine life, charming fishing villages, and rich culinary traditions—making Bantayan Island a must-visit stop in many Cebu Province tours.
Aside from its postcard-worthy beaches, Bantayan Island is also one of Cebu Province’s major fishing communities. It’s well known for producing dried fish like danggit, which you’ll find in local markets and on dining tables throughout the Philippines. Expect your visit to be filled with food tours, seaside dining experiences, and incredibly fresh seafood at affordable prices.
Whether you're here for the adventure, the heritage, or simply to unwind in paradise, Bantayan Island has something for every traveler. Use this comprehensive guide to help plan your escape to one of the most stunning gems in Cebu Province.
Best Time to Visit Bantayan Island in Cebu Province
With most of its attractions centered around beaches, island-hopping, and outdoor adventures, the best time to visit Bantayan Island is during the dry season, when sunny skies and calm seas allow for smooth travel and uninterrupted exploration.
Dry Season | February to Mid-May
The ideal months to enjoy Bantayan Island tours are between February and mid-May, which falls within the Philippine summer season. This period offers the perfect weather for basking on Cebu Province’s stunning beaches, kayaking in crystal-clear waters, cliff diving, and taking in golden sunsets. Expect warm temperatures, gentle sea breezes, and minimal rainfall—ideal conditions for a relaxing island escape.
Avoid the Wet Season | June to September
While the island is warm year-round, the months from June to September are part of the wet or typhoon season in the Philippines. Heavy rains and rough seas may cause delays in ferry schedules and limit some outdoor activities. It’s best to plan ahead and keep an eye on local weather forecasts if you’re traveling during this period.
Palawod Festival | June 29
If you're interested in local culture, consider timing your visit with Bantayan Island’s Palawod Festival, celebrated annually on June 29 in honor of the patron saints St. Peter and St. Paul. “Palawod” is a Cebuano word that means “to venture out to sea,” a nod to the island’s fishing roots.
Like many festivals in the Philippines, this celebration features colorful street dancing, vibrant costumes, and a feast of local dishes. Just be mindful of possible rain in June if you’re attending.
Climate and Weather
Bantayan Island has a tropical climate, with average temperatures hovering around 28°C (82°F) throughout the year. Even during the rainy season, it rarely gets cold, though occasional showers may occur. Always check the local forecast before your trip to help plan your itinerary and make the most of your time on the island.
Source: Climate Data
What to Wear on Your Bantayan Island Trip
Comfort and practicality are key when packing for your Bantayan Island getaway. Since most Cebu Province tours involve being outdoors or on the beach, lightweight and breathable clothing is highly recommended.
If you're taking the 4 to 5-hour bus ride from Cebu City to Bantayan Island, bring a light jacket or scarf to keep warm as buses can get chilly with air-conditioning. On the island, wear summer-ready clothes, and don’t forget sun protection essentials like a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen—especially if you plan to explore by motorbike or bicycle, two of the best ways to get around.
During the rainy season, a compact umbrella or rain poncho and a light waterproof jacket will come in handy for sudden showers and cooler nights. Whether you're visiting for a quick escape or as part of a longer Cebu Province vacation package, dressing appropriately ensures you’ll stay comfortable while enjoying all that Bantayan Island has to offer.
How to Go to Bantayan Island
Reaching Bantayan Island from Cebu City is straightforward, with options that cater to both budget travelers and those looking for a quicker, more comfortable journey. Whether you’re including Bantayan Island in your vacation package in the Philippines or planning a DIY getaway, it all starts with a flight to Mactan-Cebu International Airport, the main gateway to the province.
Flights to Cebu City
From major Philippine cities like Manila, Clark, Davao, and Cagayan de Oro, frequent flights to Cebu City, with travel time from Manila taking about 1 hour. Cebu City is also well-connected to international destinations, with direct flights from South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia, and Hong Kong.
Cebu City to Bantayan Island
Once you’ve landed in Cebu City, you’re just one journey away from the powdery white sand beaches and laid-back charm of Bantayan Island. While it may be located off the northern tip of Cebu province, getting there is part of the adventure. You can either go the traditional route by combining a scenic land and sea transfer, or take the faster option by flying directly to Bantayan Island.
Option 1: Land and Sea Travel via North Bus Terminal + Ferry
The most popular and budget-friendly option is to travel overland and by sea:
1. From Mactan-Cebu International Airport, take the MyBus or a taxi to Cebu North Bus Terminal (30–45 minutes).
2. Board a Ceres bus bound for Santa Fe town in Bantayan Island, which includes the RoRo ferry fare, or take a bus to Hagnaya Port in San Remigio, where you’ll transfer to the RoRo ferry separately.
Travel time is around 4 to 5 hours by bus, followed by a 1.5-hour ferry ride to Santa Fe Port. Once you arrive at the port of Bantayan Island, all visitors are required to pay an environmental/green fee.
Option 2: Flights from Cebu City to Bantayan Island (Fridays & Sundays Only)
If you prefer a faster and more convenient option, you can take a direct flight from Cebu City to Bantayan Island, which takes approximately 40 to 45 minutes. These flights currently operate only on Fridays and Sundays and land at Bantayan Airport in Santa Fe town.
Flights can only be booked through accredited travel agencies—there are no online booking platforms available at the moment. This makes it important to plan ahead if you wish to secure a seat.
Aside from the time savings, flying offers a scenic aerial view of Cebu’s northern coastline and Bantayan Island’s turquoise waters.
Getting Around Bantayan Island
Once you arrive on Bantayan Island, getting around is fairly easy, with several transportation options to suit every kind of traveler.
If you’re taking a direct bus from Cebu City to Santa Fe town, you won’t need to transfer at the port—the bus continues along the island’s main road toward Bantayan Town, passing by many resorts. Simply inform the conductor of your accommodation, and they’ll drop you off at the nearest unloading point.
If you arrived via RoRo ferry, tricycles are available just outside the terminal, ready to take you to your hotel or resort. Many resorts also offer pre-arranged shuttle services, which you can book in advance for convenience.
To save time and enjoy a hassle-free experience, consider booking Bantayan Island tours that include hotel transfers, guided inland tours, and island-hopping activities. These are ideal for those who want to explore top attractions without worrying about negotiating fares or navigating unfamiliar roads.
Here are your main transportation options when exploring Bantayan Island:
Jeepney or Multicab
The iconic Filipino jeepney and its smaller version, the multicab, are commonly used for getting around and between the island’s three main towns: Santa Fe, Bantayan, and Madridejos. These vehicles typically make stops to pick up and drop off passengers, but you can also hire one privately for your group to enjoy a customizable inland tour. Rates for day hires vary and should be agreed upon in advance with the driver.
Private Van with Driver
If comfort and convenience are your top priorities—especially for families, groups, or seniors—you can hire a private air-conditioned van with a driver and tour guide. This is the best option for a seamless and guided experience, particularly if you plan to visit multiple attractions across the island in one day.
Tricycle or Habal-Habal
For smaller groups or solo travelers, tricycles (motorcycles with sidecars) and habal-habal (motorcycle taxis) are ideal for both short trips and longer journeys across the island. They’re also a convenient option if you’re planning to visit off-the-beaten-path destinations. Like jeepneys, they can be rented for a full day at negotiable rates for DIY tours around the island.
Motorcycle and Bicycle Rentals
For travelers who want the freedom to explore on their own, motorcycle and bicycle rentals are popular and affordable options. Motorbikes (typically 110cc–125cc) are widely available for rent by the day, while single-speed bikes are great for leisurely rides along coastal roads. Discounts may be offered for multi-day rentals, especially during longer stays.
Where to Stay in Bantayan Island
There are several hotel and resort options in Bantayan, ranging from the budget fan rooms to high-end resorts. The concentrating beaches and the top beach resorts are the main reasons why most travelers stay in Santa Fe.
Types of Accommodations
To help you decide where to book for your accommodation in Bantayan Island, read below on what the different categories are available.
Here are your options when looking for a place to stay in Bantayan Island, from beachfront or island resorts, hotels, backpacker-friendly hostels, and private houses that you can rent:
Resorts
Like other island destinations in the Philippines, most accommodations in Bantayan Island are resorts.
The beachfront resorts, especially in white sand beaches, are highly sought-after by travelers and those who want to go on a honeymoon in the Philippines and are usually fully booked during peak season. It's best to book in advance or at least two months before your trip.
Hotels
There are also several hotels in Bantayan Island, but most don't have beach access. They are usually located in the inner streets of towns like Santa Fe. They're often found in the town centers so eating out is as quick as a few minutes' walks.
Hostels or Apartelles
These are budget-friendly accommodations that offer basic amenities. The majority have fan rooms and air-conditioned rooms with a shared or private bathroom.
You can rent these rooms for an affordable price. Don't expect though that these will have stunning beachfront views since they're usually located in town centers or inner streets.
Vacation Rentals
Travelers can rent several privately-owned houses on a short-term or long-term basis. These include a whole home for big groups and bungalow houses for smaller groups.
Most of these are equipped with kitchens where you can cook your food, buy ingredients like fresh seafood from the public markets.
Neighborhoods and Areas
There are three municipalities in Bantayan Island. Use this as a guide when booking your accommodations.
Santa Fe
The ferry port and airport are located in the southeastern area of Bantayan Island. It is the reason why it is the gateway to this tropical destination.
Most Bantayan Island tourist spots, restaurants and bars, and top accommodations are also in this area. That's why most travelers prefer Santa Fe as their home base when on the island.
Bantayan
It is the largest and most populous municipality and located at the center of Bantayan Island. You can find here attractions like Sts. Peter and Paul Church, the pool cave of Bantayan Island Nature Park Resort, and Obo-ob Mangrove Eco Park.
Madridejos
Located north of Bantayan Island, this is the farthest municipality if you're coming from the ferry port. You can find Kota Park here and watch the stunning sunset at the beach and boardwalk next to it.
Accommodation Highlights in Bantayan Island
Depending on your preference and set expenses, here are some of the highly-recommended choices of accommodations in Bantayan Island. We included selections that range from luxury to budget-friendly resorts, hotels, and hostels:
Luxury Accommodations
If you're on the hunt for all the bells and whistles for the hotel-type amenities and features. You can have a very luxurious stay at these Bantayan Island resorts.
Amihan Beach Cabanas
Photo from amihan-beach.com
You will find this Travelers' Choice 2019 award winner at the center of Santa Fe. This small, private beachfront resort with its restaurant and bar features native cabanas equipped with air conditioning, cable TV, refrigerator, hot and cold shower, ceiling fan, and a living area with terrace.
They offer breakfast, laundry service, airport transportation, and Wi-Fi.
Marlin's Beach Resort
This beachfront resort offers air-conditioned rooms with scenic garden and ocean views. It’s also close to food and entertainment spots in the island. Other amenities include a restaurant, bar, Wi-Fi, air transportation, and laundry service.
Kota Beach Resort
Situated in front of the white sandbar and long stretch of Kota Beach. This top resort in Bantayan is famed for being one of the locations of a Filipino rom-com movie entitled Camp Sawi.
It features modern with natural materials air-conditioned rooms with views of the shoreline and has their restaurant as well. Other amenities include a bar/lounge, Wi-Fi, and shuttle service.
Mid-Range Accommodations
If you're looking for comfortable amenities such as a TV, hot showers, and laundry service, but don't want to splurge too much. There are several mid-range Bantayan Island resorts and hotels for you.
Sunshine Bantayan Garden Resort
Traveling with family? This resort offers budget-friendly family rooms with air conditioning. They also provide room service, free WiFi, free parking, and laundry service. They also have an in-house restaurant and bar.
CouCou Bar Hotel and Restaurant
Photo by Coucou Bar Hotel and Restaurant
All rooms in this hotel come with an air conditioner, a fan, a safety box, a hot and cold shower, and flat-screen TV. Their superior rooms even have a satellite connection, dresser, and refrigerator as well as your balcony.
The hotel has its own bar and restaurant and offers breakfast, room service, and Wi-Fi. It's one of the hotels in Bantayan Island that accepts credit card payments without additional charges. Their cocktail drinks are must-try!
Ogtong Cave Resort
Looking for a resort with its pool? This resort has one you can enjoy. Not only that, but this is also where the Ogtong Cave pool belongs, so you have quick and easy access to it. They also offer children's activities and family rooms, making it an excellent option for families.
La Playa Estrella Beach Resort
Awarded with the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence, this resort has an extensive beachfront with stunning white sand. They offer suites and family rooms with air conditioning and a minibar. They also have a restaurant and a bar inside the resort.
Budget Accommodations
There are several accommodations available in Bantayan if you're on a tight budget. You can choose among several types, including apartelles, beach cabanas and huts, cottages, and resorts.
Stevrena Cottages
If you want to go rustic on a budget, stay at the Stevrena Cottages. It has basic but private and homey bedrooms and has a great location. You can even use their BBQ facilities if you want to cook your fresh seafood.
Casa Isabel Hostel
Photo by Casa Isabel Hostel
Are you a solo traveler? Then this hostel is the perfect choice for you. Apart from being near the beach and MJ Square, this hostel with dormitory rooms and family rooms feature a shared bathroom with a bidet and a shared kitchen. They also offer free Wi-Fi and barbecue facilities.
If you want to be along the main road in Santa Fe town and near shorelines, stay at the Jumema Apartment which has the best-rated location in Bantayan Island.
Their air-conditioned rooms have private bathrooms. They also allow guests to use the kitchen so you can make this your home away from home in Bantayan.
What to See and Do in Bantayan Island
Since it’s an island, the beaches are the main attractions of Bantayan Island, Cebu. But there are also other eco-tourism sites to heritage and cultural tourist spots that you can visit here. Check out these attractions that you can add to your Bantayan Island itinerary and tour:
Lounge and Swim in Beaches
Exploring the beaches of Bantayan Island is as easy as driving around the coastline where many pristine beaches are scattered, mainly in Santa Fe. The best way is by hiring a tricycle or habal-habal if you want a local to drive you around.
You can also rent your motorcycle if you're going to do the exploration for yourself. Here are some of the top beaches that you can explore inland:
Paradise Beach
This secluded beach in Santa Fe is an excellent spot to swim in the crystal-clear water or lie on the beach to work on your tan. They also have grounds for camping if you want to stay here longer.
Kota Beach
Another Santa Fe beach is famous for its white sand bar, and a long stretch of fine white sand. It will remind you of Boracay's White Beach without the crowd. It is right in front of Kota Beach Resort, but you can access it for free.
Go Island-Hopping
There are also smaller islands outside of Bantayan Island that you can explore by doing island-hopping tours. You can visit the following:
Virgin Island
It is an island that houses a resort where you can go snorkeling and fish feeding aside from swimming. Since it's private property, you need to pay an entrance fee.
Hilantagaan Island
This island is home to a small fishing village where you can interact with locals while swimming or snorkeling. It is a quieter island destination compared to Virgin Island since most travelers choose to stay longer there because of the amenities provided by the resort.
Overall, these are some of the underrated islands in Cebu.
Explore Inland Attractions
Aside from beaches that you can tour in the main island, these spots are also a worth adding to your land tour itinerary:
Ogtong Cave
A small natural pool cave found in Ogtong Cave Resort. There's an entrance fee that will also give you access to the resort's pool and beach. Because of the small size of the lake, this is popular with travelers, especially during the late morning and afternoon.
Sto. Nino Cave
Another natural pool inside a cave found in Bantayan Island Nature Park and Resort, but bigger than Ogtong Cave. The is an entrance fee, which includes access to the 8-hectare resort's pool, zoo, and fish spa, among other things.
Obo-ob Mangrove Eco Park
Take a refreshing stroll in the bamboo walkways of this locally-maintained mangrove park. There's an entrance, which includes the free use of a straw hat. You can also ride a kayak, it's best to go here early in the morning during high tide.
Try Exciting Outdoor Activities
Up for an adventure in Bantayan Island? Check out these adrenaline-pumping outdoor activities:
Cliff Jumping
There are several spots around Bantayan Island if you're game for facing your fear of heights to jump off a cliff to the clear waters. You can try the rocky cliffs at Paradise Beach, at ruins of a building near Paradise beach, and in Virgin Island.
Skydiving
You will be able to get a better view of the island, and you're up for trying one of the extreme activities in the Philippines.
The best way to do it is by skydiving with Skydive Cebu. Bantayan Island is well-known for this because the surrounding waters and islands provide for an excellent backdrop for pictures and videos.
Learn About Bantayan Island’s History
When you've had enough sun, sea, and sand, and want to explore a different side of Bantayan Island, check out these historical tourist spots:
Sts. Peter and Paul Church
Located in the town center of Bantayan municipality and across from the town plaza is this ancient church. This imposing structure is one of the oldest churches in Cebu built back in 1580. It's a great tourist spot because of its architecture and well-preserved antiquity.
Kota Park
If you're a history buff and love sunsets, go to this attraction in Madridejos. The construction was in the 1790s; you can see the old fort from here. You can also stay at the beach or the boardwalk where you can watch the spectacular sunset.
Where to Shop
The danggit (salted, sun-dried rabbitfish) is a must-buy when in Bantayan Island. You can purchase these and other dried fish variants in the town's public markets. You can also find them in Cebu City's Taboan Market.
However, you can get these for a lower price in Bantayan Island since you're buying from the fish supply source of the province.
What to Eat and Drink in Bantayan Island
Dining options are aplenty on the island, including cafes, restaurants, and bars that offer different types of food and cuisines including Asian, American, Italian, and of course, Filipino.
In this section, we break down your food options from the must-try local cuisine to the highly-recommended restaurants on the island:
Local Cuisine
As a fishing village, Bantayan Island's specialty is fresh and affordable seafood like scallops that are sold by locals. You can also order scallops and other seafood in the restaurants in Bantayan Island and eat it with Cebu's iconic puso, cooked rice wrapped in weaved palm leaves.
Another unique cuisine in the Visayas, specifically Cebu, is SuTuKil or SuToKil. It is an abbreviation of three dishes or ways of cooking. Su stands for grilled, Tu or To stands for fish or chicken cooked in vegetable soup, and kil stands for raw food marinated in vinegar and citrus.
You can try this at Arjaymay SuTuKil in Santa Fe near the public market where they serve affordable roasted chicken and fresh seafood dishes. There's also
Recommended Best Restaurants and Bars
If you’re staying in Sante Fe, explore the busy food center called MJ Square. There are a plethora of restaurants that offer affordable seafood dishes and other types of cuisine and bars for drinks at night. Here are some that you can check out:
Photo by Bantayan Burrito Company
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Bantayan Burrito Company - If you want a break from seafood, this is famous for its tasty Mexican, Southwestern, and Central American dishes like quesadillas and nachos.
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Stumble Inn - Famed for their must-try ribs and seafood dishes; it’s also a bar that serves Australian cuisine.
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Sarapoi - If you're in the mood for some affordable yet delicious Asian or Indian dishes, this is the place to be. Their popular dishes include their chicken vindaloo curry and their sizzling steaks.
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Cafe Mare - If you’re craving something Italian, you'll love their pizza, and it's said to be the best in Bantayan Island. They also have a wide array of international beers and wines, making this bar the perfect spot for nights out.
Practical Information and Tips
Before you travel to Bantayan Island, take note of these essential tips on the currency and credit card purchases and languages spoken by the locals for a hassle-free vacation in this tropical paradise:
Currency
Philippine Peso (PHP) in cash is the primary mode of payment in Bantayan Island. Some high-end establishments accept credit cards. Still, bring enough money from Cebu to be sure since ATMs and banks are limited to Bantayan town.
Language
Bantayan Island's locals speak Bantayanon, a combination of Visayan words like Cebuano, Waray-Waray, and Hiligaynon. They can also speak and understand Filipino, and the majority can communicate in English.
Sample Itinerary in Bantayan Island
Given that the travel time from Cebu City to Bantayan Island already takes half a day, you should plan a trip there for more than a day.
If you wish to maximize your visit, a minimum of three days and two nights on the island is recommended. Here’s a sample itinerary that you can take inspiration from:
Day 1: Arrival + Beach and Land Tour
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6:00 AM - Arrive at Mactan Cebu Airport and travel to North Bus Terminal
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6:30 AM - Board bus to Hagnaya Port
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11:00 AM - Arrive at Hagnaya Port. Purchase ferry ticket / Lunch break
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12:00 NN - Board RoRo to Santa Fe
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1:30 PM - Arrive at Bantayan Island
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2:00 PM - Check-in to Hotel
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2:30 PM - Beach hopping and inland tour: Paradise Beach, Kota Beach, Ogtong Cave, Kota Park, St. Peter & Paul Parish, Obo-ob Mangrove Eco Park
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7:00 PM - Dinner
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8:00 PM - Drinks and Socials
Day 2: Arrival + Island-Hopping
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5:30 AM - Wake up / Sunrise at beach
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6:45 AM - Breakfast
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8:00 AM - Island-hopping tour: Virgin Island and Hilantagaan Island
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12:00 NN - Lunch
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1:30 PM - Back at hotel / Rest
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4:30 PM - Sunset at beach
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7:00 PM - Dinner
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8:00 PM - Free Time / Lights Out
Day 3: Departure to Cebu City
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5:30 AM - Wake up / Sunrise at beach
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6:00 AM - Breakfast
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7:00 AM - Check-out of hotel
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7:30 AM - Board RoRo to Hagnaya Port
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9:00 AM - Arrival at Hagnaya and board bus to Cebu City
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1:00 PM - Arrival in Cebu City
Experience the Laidback Island Life in Bantayan Island
If what you are looking for is an escape from the hustle and bustle of your daily life, Bantayan Island is an ideal place to go. Unlike other popular beach destinations, the island is quiet and not packed with travelers, making it the perfect place to relax, unwind, and enjoy nature.
Besides its beautiful beaches, the island offers various exciting and fun activities for those looking for a more physical kind of unwinding. Go to Bantayan Island and experience island living at its finest.
Pack your bags and make your way to Bantayan Island. Check various Bantayan Island Cebu tours and activities that you can add in your itinerary for a hassle-free getaway to this underrated destination.
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