From Manila: Little Boracay Beach w/ Floating Bamboo Cottage

Imagine escaping the bustle of Manila for a day and finding yourself on a calm, sandy beach sandbar with vibrant coral reefs just beneath the surface. For $160 per person, this tour offers an engaging combination of beach fun, snorkeling, and Taal Volcano views, all packaged into a well-organized, memorable day. The highlights include swimming in the Starfish Sanctuary, enjoying a sumptuous breakfast served in a floating bamboo cottage, and taking striking photos of the active sulfur-emitting volcano in the background.

What we particularly love about this experience is the balance it strikes between active exploration and relaxation. The floating bamboo cottage provides a unique dining experience—imagine eating fresh local fruits and snacks while bobbing in the middle of the sea. Plus, the guided visit to Taal Volcano’s ridge offers a chance to learn about one of the country’s most active volcanoes, with stunning views that are worth a bit of a morning drive. One caveat is the weather-dependent nature of the trip; poor weather might lead to rescheduling, so checking the forecast before booking is wise.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of natural beauty, light adventure, and cultural insight—ideal for those looking for a full but not exhausting day out, especially if you appreciate authentic local scenery and friendly guides. Based on glowing reviews, it’s a trip for those who value good service, delicious food, and a well-paced itinerary.

Key Points

• Stunning natural scenery at Little Boracay Beach and the Taal Volcano Ridge
• Unique dining experience aboard a floating bamboo cottage with local snacks and fruits
• Excellent guides who provide rich information and attentive service
• Snorkeling and swimming in protected areas like the Starfish Sanctuary
• Comfortable transportation including pickup, drop-off, boat, and all fees included
• Weather-dependent activity, so check forecasts before planning

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Look at the Experience

This day trip from Manila is designed for those who want to explore beyond the city without committing to an overnight stay. Starting with hotel pickup, the journey takes you out to Batangas, an area renowned for its clear waters and volcanic scenery. The first stop is the sandbar outside Manila, a shallow, white-sand stretch that appears at low tide. Here, you’ll find yourself in the Starfish Sanctuary, where the shallow waters are teeming with starfish and colorful fish—a real treat for snorkelers and water lovers.

One of the standout features is the floating bamboo cottage, which acts as your base for brunch. Imagine sitting on a traditional bamboo platform, surrounded by the sea, enjoying a local breakfast, fruits, and snacks. The full dry snorkeling masks provided allow you to see 180° with anti-fog technology, making underwater exploration easy and fun. Many reviewers highlight how memorable and relaxing this part of the trip is, emphasizing the delicious food and the chance to just unwind in the middle of the sea.

After savoring the seaside meal, the tour continues with a motorized boat ride to the Taal Volcano Ridge in Tagaytay City. This area offers breathtaking views and a chance to learn about the 2020 eruption, which significantly affected local communities and Manila itself. Guides are well-informed and candid, sharing stories about the volcano’s activity and history. A quick stop for a selfie with the sulfuric volcano in the background rounds out this part of the trip.

The Taal Volcano is one of the world’s most fascinating volcanic formations—an island within a lake, within another island, and so on. Since the eruption, Taal remains the country’s most active complex volcano, making the views both awe-inspiring and a reminder of nature’s unpredictable power.

Transportation & Logistics

In terms of logistics, the air-conditioned transport makes the long drive comfortable, and the inclusion of gas, tolls, and boat fees simplifies budgeting. The tour is typically well-paced, giving you enough time at each stop without rushing. The full-day itinerary usually lasts around 8 hours, making it a manageable day for most travelers.

Food and Beverages

The brunch served in the floating bamboo cottage is often praised, with reviews mentioning delicious, fresh seafood, grilled meats, and tropical fruits. You have the option to upgrade to a buffet lunch in the cottage for PHP 1,000, which includes seafood, chicken, pork, rice, and drinks—an excellent value if you’re hungry after swimming and snorkeling.

Authentic Experiences and Guides

Guides like Flor and Lani (mentioned in reviews) are praised for their patience, friendliness, and knowledge. They call themselves “our parents for the day,” ensuring travelers feel cared for without feeling rushed. Their service adds a warm, personal touch that elevates the experience from a simple tour to a memorable day.

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The Value of the Tour

At just $160, this experience offers good value, especially considering all fees, transportation, meals, and activities are included. The combination of photo-worthy scenery, engaging water activities, and a visit to an active volcano makes it a comprehensive and worthwhile outing. The reviews highlight how well-organized and reliable the trip is, with many noting the excellent service and delicious food.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you enjoy a mix of beach leisure, snorkeling, scenic views, and learning about volcanic activity, this tour is for you. It’s perfect for those who want an authentic experience that balances sightseeing with fun in the water. Families, couples, and groups of friends who appreciate friendly guides and good value will find this trip appealing. It’s especially suitable if you’re keen to see local culture and natural beauty without a complicated itinerary.

The Sum Up

This day trip from Manila to Batangas offers a rewarding escape. The swimming in the Starfish Sanctuary, the unique floating bamboo cottage meal, and the impressive views of Taal Volcano make it a well-rounded adventure. The guides’ attentiveness, combined with delicious local food and stunning scenery, ensure you’ll leave with plenty of memorable moments.

While weather can influence the experience—so plan accordingly—the overall value, authenticity, and variety of activities make it a standout choice for travelers seeking a taste of both sea life and volcanic majesty. It’s a great option if you want an active, scenic, and relaxing day that highlights the natural beauty of the Philippines without needing to go far from Manila.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the trip involves swimming and snorkeling, so children should be comfortable in the water. Keep in mind the activity is weather-dependent, and younger kids may need supervision.

What should I bring?
Pack swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a camera, and water. Extra clothes for swimming are advisable, especially if you plan to snorkel or swim in the sea.

Does the tour include lunch?
The basic package includes breakfast/snacks and fruits served on the floating bamboo cottage. An optional buffet lunch with seafood and meats is available for PHP 1,000 per person, paid at the marketplace.

How long does the tour last?
Typically around 8 hours, including pick-up, travel, activities, and return to Manila.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour provides air-conditioned transport, with all tolls and fees included, ensuring a comfortable journey.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are guides fluent in English?
Yes, the tour is conducted in English with knowledgeable guides providing rich commentary and assistance.

What if the weather is bad?
Activities are weather-dependent; bad weather may lead to rescheduling or cancellation. It’s wise to check the forecast before booking.

This tour offers an excellent blend of nature, adventure, and cultural insight—perfect for those who want to experience the Philippines beyond Manila’s city lights.

You can check availability for your dates here: