Be it summertime or not, but hey! Who says it’s already late for a new adventure? Do you want to have a quick getaway? Are you tired with planning and forever planning? Yes, yes, I know! A lot of us are stacked on the planning stage. I get it! Me, too!
But it’s never too late! Here are some Cebu islands that can help you finish your unending barkada summer planning. Since we are talking about quick, and easy planning getaway and especially for people who are too “busy” that don’t want to go further than Talisay or Mandaue (I know right! We all have that one friend).
First, you need to secure a boat! You can go at Punta Engaño wharf beside Movenpeak and inquire for a boat suitable for your group. You can also go to Angasil port in Maribago. Now, the “getting to the boat” is easy, but the “choosing” one is difficult. I tell you, be prepared when you arrive there because for sure you will be greeted by a swarm of porters asking you one same question: “Island hopping mo sir/mam?”
Boat rates may range from ₱2,000 to ₱3,500 depending on how many is your group, islands you want to go, and how you haggle. So, be friendly!
Let’s start the island hopping, shall we? Here are some islands that are commonly offered for island hopping in Mactan, Cebu. Most are from Olango Reef (the nearest in the mainland).
Hilutungan Island
Our first stop, one of the islands in the Olango Reef. Hilutungan Island is one of the most favorite snorkeling destinations for locals and foreigners alike and is only 20 to 25 minutes away from Mactan.
If you wish to stay for a night, there is a resort nearby that can complement your island expectation; ideal for sun lovers.
Caohagan Island
Caohagan is great for lunch breaks and barbecues. The last time I’ve been there, the entrance is about ₱75 and cottages range from ₱150-₱300. This is also a great place for those who love fresh seafood.
The attributes I love about the island is the sand bar and its white sand. However, if you do not plan to stay there for long, make sure that you arrive there during high tide and leave during high tide.
I remember one time, I freeloaded an island hopping to my girlfriend and her colleagues. When we arrived at the island, it is at low tide so they decided to offload and walk so the bangka will not strand in the seabed hitting the corals. After they offloaded, since the bangka is already light weight, it already started to float; enough not to hit the corals.
So, the funny part is, while everyone is walking, I am there in the bangka sitting like a boss and the crew is pushing it near the shore. Yes! I’m bad! I am supposed to go down too but the crew said there’s no need.
Nalusuan Island
If you are in a budget island hopping, landing there is not for you. But, you can still enjoy the reef edge by snorkeling and it will only cost you ₱200. Nalusuan Island is also known as one of the good spots for snorkeling and diving.
Sulpa Island
This small rocky island is best known for its crystal clear waters and dive sites.
Olango Island
Last but not the least is the main island and the biggest of all the islands within the reef. You can dive there at ₱100. You can also visit the main island and visit their bird sanctuary.
Other islands in the reef include:
– Panganan Island
– Camongi Island
Other must go Islands that will be featured soon:
– Pandanon Island
– Sand Bar
FYI: The Islands mentioned above are parts of Olango Reef. Here is a better perspective of the reef and its islands.
There you go! My short list of islands that you can visit in a day.
What are you waiting for? Finish those plans with your family and friends and enjoy the ultimate Cebu Island Hopping experience!
