When you’re a student, traveling full-on can be quite difficult. There’s a ton of things you need to accomplish and schoolwork you need to finish. You also have to deal with money issues since this is basically the costliest period in your life. And, of course, there’s the parents prohibiting you from traveling because they believe that doing so can affect how (well) you perform in school.
Thankfully, we have summer breaks. During the break, these things no longer become an issue. You now have a lot of free time, freedom to roam around, and, of course, (hopefully) enough money to spend. :)
So, since summer is just around the corner, here are 7 great Cebu Islands that you need to check out as soon as the term closes. Or once all these issues are out of the window. :) If you want a “me time” that involves boat rides, adventures, and lots of swimming, this list is for you.
1. Sumilon Island
Location: Oslob, South Cebu
Boat Ride: 15 mins from mainland
Why Visit:
- Whale-shark watching
- Trekking
- Wildlife
- Glamping
- Pristine beaches
- Heritage
- Infinity pool
- Salt-water lagoon
Budget: Prepare around Php 1,500 – Php 2,000 for day tour. This is inclusive of boat-transfers, lunch, selected resort amenities and services, and locker for your belongings.
2. Bantayan Island
Location: Bantayan Island, North Cebu
Boat Ride: 1 to 2 hrs from San Remigio
Why Visit:
- Amazing beaches
- Unique culture
- Excellent heritage structures
- Holy Week celebrations
- Beach parties
- Dried fish
Budget: Prepare around Php 400 for boat transfers. Rooms range from around Php 500 to Php 5,000. You can pitch a tent for less than Php 500.
3. Funtastic Island (Gibitngil Island)
Location: Medellin, North Cebu
Boat Ride: 30 mins from mainland
Why Visit:
- White beach
- Rock formations
- Cliff diving
- Zipline
Budget: Boat transfer is from Php 1,000 (small boat) to Php 1,500 (big boat.) Entrance fee is around Php 10. Cottages range from Php 100 to Php 500.
4. Silion Island (Virgin Island)
Location: Bantayan Island
Boat Ride: 15 to 25 mins from Santa Fe, Bantayan
Why Visit:
- Unspoiled beaches
- Peace and quiet
- Pocket beaches for a unique beach experience
Budget: Boat rent is around Php 1,000. Entrance fee is around Php 100 per person. Cottage rent is Php 100. If your boat doesn’t dock, you have to pay only Php 200.
5. Pacijan Island
Location: Camotes Group of Islands
Boat Ride: 1.5 hrs to 2 hrs from Danao City
Why Visit:
- Lake Danao
- Tumibo Spring
- Mangodlong Rock Resort
- Santiago Bay
- Rock formations
- Pristine beaches
Budget: Boat transfer is around Php 400 round trip. Accommodations start from around Php 500 to Php 1,500. Arrange tours with local habal-habal drivers. Rate is around Php 300 to Php 500.
6. Saragossa Island (Badian Island)
(photos by Aubrey A.)
Location: Badian, South Cebu
Boat Ride: 15 to 20 mins from mainland
Why Visit:
- Water sports
- Peace and quiet
- Privacy and exclusivity
- Amazing beaches
- Unique resort facilities
Budget: Rate starts at around Php 10,000 for an overnight stay for two.
7. Olango Group of Islands
Location: Olango Islands
Boat Ride: 15 to 20 mins from Mactan
Why Visit:
- Laid-back atmosphere
- Marine sanctuary
- Diving
- Bird sanctuary
- Mangrove forests
- Mudflats
Budget: Round-trip boat transfer is only less than Php 100. Entrance fees to most spots cost only from Php 10 to Php 20.
