CEBU:Bantayan Island: Land and Virgin Island tour with Lunch

Bantayan Island: Land and Virgin Island Tour with Lunch — A Balanced Look at a Filipino Island Escape

If you’re dreaming of a day filled with beautiful beaches, lush mangroves, and crystal-clear waters, then this 7-hour private tour on Bantayan Island might be just what you need. For $127 per person, you’ll start in Santa Fe with hotel transfers, then explore the island’s highlights via land, followed by a boat trip to surrounding islands. The day wraps up with a complimentary Filipino lunch and plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and relax.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines the cultural sights and natural beauty of Bantayan Island in one seamless trip. First, there’s the chance to stroll Kota Beach, famous for its scenic sandbar and as a filming location for the Filipino movie Camp Sawi. Then, the adventure continues with cliff-jumping at The Ruins — a thrill that’s hard to beat. Lastly, the visit to Ogtong Cave offers a refreshing dip in its blue waters, which is a lovely break from the sun.

On the island-hopping side, we appreciate the balanced mix of relaxation and sightseeing. Virgin Island’s pristine white sands and snorkel-worthy waters are perfect for unwinding, while Baigad Lagoon Beach provides yet another picturesque spot. The potential drawback? The tour’s packed schedule might leave some wishing for more time at each stop, especially if you’re keen on truly soaking in each location.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a full-day, well-organized experience that offers both cultural insights and scenic beauty. It’s especially suited for those who prefer a private group setting, ensuring a more personalized and flexible day, and for first-timers eager to cover Bantayan’s highlights with minimal hassle.

Key Points

All-Inclusive Convenience: The tour covers hotel transfers, entrance fees, and a tasty Filipino lunch.
Diverse Experiences: Combines land sightseeing, island-hopping, snorkeling, and relaxing beach time.
Private Group Flexibility: Offers a more personalized experience with a dedicated guide.
Beautiful Locations: Highlights include Kota Beach, Ogtong Cave, Virgin Island, and Baigad Lagoon Beach.
Active and Relaxing: Perfect for travelers who want a bit of adventure, stunning scenery, and downtime.
Timing and Duration: A full 7-hour itinerary with start times checked for your convenience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Bantayan Island Land and Virgin Island Tour

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Starting Point: From Santa Fe to the Heart of Bantayan

The tour kicks off with a hotel pickup in Santa Fe around 8:00 AM. The pickup process is straightforward — just wait in your hotel lobby, and a friendly driver holding a sign with your name will greet you. This ease of transfer is a big plus, especially if you’re coming from a nearby resort or hotel. The drive to the starting point offers some initial glimpses of the island’s rural charm, setting a relaxed tone for the day.

Exploring Bantayan’s Landmarks: Kota Beach and The Ruins

First stop is Kota Beach, renowned for its sweeping white sand and the iconic sandbar. It’s a location many travelers find picture-perfect, partly because it’s been featured in Filipino cinema. Here, you can snap photos, stroll along the shore, or just enjoy the view. The beach’s calm, shallow waters make it ideal for a quick swim or paddle.

Next, you’ll visit The Ruins, a site known for its cliff-jumping opportunities. For thrill-seekers, this is a highlight — a chance to test your courage with a splash into the blue waters below. Even if cliff-jumping isn’t your thing, the scenery itself is impressive, with rugged cliffs and panoramic views.

The Omagieca Mangrove Garden offers an educational twist. It’s a chance to learn about mangrove conservation efforts and see the lush forest up close. We loved seeing how the locals are actively protecting these vital ecosystems, and the guided tour adds an engaging touch.

Cooling Off at Ogtong Cave

One of the tour’s more unique stops is Ogtong Cave Resort, where you’ll spend about 1.5 hours. The cave features a pool with clear blue waters inside a private setting. It’s an inviting spot for a quick swim and a refreshing break amid spectacular geological formations. The cave’s cool environment makes it a perfect escape from the tropical heat, and the setting within a resort means amenities are nearby.

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Island-Hopping to Virgin Island and Baigad Lagoon Beach

After the land adventure, the tour transitions to boat transport for some island-hopping. The first stop is Virgin Island, famed for its pristine white sand beach and transparent waters. Depending on your preference, you can lounge on the beach or snorkel in the shallow, clear waters teeming with marine life.

The last stop is Baigad Lagoon Beach, a peaceful spot where you can relax and snap some last photos. You also have the chance to visit a local fishing village, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the island’s residents. This adds an authentic dimension to your trip, away from the more touristy areas.

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Returning and Reflecting

By late afternoon, it’s time to head back to Santa Fe, with a full belly from the included Filipino lunch — featuring grilled pork belly, shrimp, crab, rice, bottled water, and soda. The meal is well-rated for its authenticity and quality, offering a satisfying end to a day packed with activity.

What We Think: Value, Experience, and Considerations

This tour offers solid value for those who want a comprehensive taste of Bantayan Island without the hassle of planning each stop. The all-included price covers transportation, entrance fees, a guide, and a well-rounded itinerary. For $127, you get a full day of varied experiences, which is reasonable considering the private setting and personalized attention.

The private group format means you won’t be in a rush or jostling for space — it’s a more relaxed way to explore. The guided aspect helps you understand the significance of each site, making the scenery more meaningful.

However, the packed schedule might feel hurried for those who prefer a more leisurely pace. Each stop is relatively short — around 30 minutes to an hour — so if you’re someone who loves lingering at each spot, this may not be ideal. Also, the inclusion of lunch is a welcome convenience, but options are limited to Filipino dishes, which might not suit all dietary preferences.

The timing— starting at 8:00 AM and wrapping up around 3:00 PM — is designed to maximize daylight, but travelers should be prepared for a busy day with active parts like cliff-jumping and snorkeling.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for first-time visitors to Bantayan Island who want a well-organized, all-in-one day trip. It’s great for those who enjoy a mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural insight. Travelers who appreciate the comfort and flexibility of a private group will find this especially appealing.

If you prefer more time at each location or a slower pace, you might want to consider alternative options or extending your stay. But for a balanced overview of Bantayan’s best, this tour offers good value and plenty of memorable moments.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

In short, this Bantayan Island tour delivers a diverse and enjoyable day packed with scenic views, beach relaxation, and cultural highlights. The combination of land and island experiences makes it a practical choice for those who want to see the most without the stress of logistics.

The inclusion of a hotel pickup, lunch, and private guiding makes it stand out as a hassle-free way to explore. The highlight for many will be the stunning beaches and the opportunity to snorkel in clear waters, perfect for anyone craving an authentic tropical escape.

While the schedule might feel a bit intensive for some, it’s an excellent option for travelers eager to make the most of their time on Bantayan Island. This tour suits active travelers and first-timers looking for a comprehensive, well-organized day that mixes adventure, relaxation, and cultural insights.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour covers hotel pickup and drop-off in Santa Fe, all entrance fees, the land tour of top attractions, boat trips to Virgin Island and Baigad Lagoon, and a Filipino lunch with drinks.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience is approximately 7 hours, starting around 8:00 AM and ending in the afternoon, with flexible start times depending on availability.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
While the tour is private and flexible, some activities like cliff-jumping may not be suitable for young children or those with mobility concerns.

What should I bring?
Pack comfortable shoes, swimwear, a camera, sunscreen, and water for the day. Remember, you’ll be in the sun a lot.

Are transfers included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off in Santa Fe are included, making logistics easy.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your plans.

What’s the best time to take this tour?
Check the availability for starting times, but mornings are ideal for avoiding the heat and crowds.

Is there an option to pay later?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, which helps keep your travel plans flexible.

Are there any restrictions or health considerations?
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or individuals with back problems due to active parts like cliff-jumping and boat rides.

Exploring Bantayan Island on this private land-and-island combo tour offers a balanced blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural charm. Whether you’re after picture-perfect beaches, a bit of adrenaline, or simply a taste of local life, this experience brings it all together with ease and comfort.