See the reasons why the mainland is only half the reason why you should visit Cebu.
Cebu is one of the most visited islands in the Philippines for a couple of reasons. One, it is a gateway to the world, two, it is one of the main commercial hubs of the country, and three, in terms of natural beauty, it's a definite hotspot for tourists. There are a lot of things that you can do and see in the mainland, but the little islands in its territory will give you a sight you would never want to miss out on. So if you are planning on visiting Cebu, you should also give yourself time to visit these hidden gems.
Camotes Islands
The Camotes is found on the northeastern side of Cebu and is made up of three major islands namely Pacijan, Ponson and Poro. These islands are nicknamed “The Lost Horizon in the South” because of their rare, untouched natural beauty.
The prime reason for visiting these islands would have to be its beaches. Long stretches of white sand with clear waters will greet you the moment you set foot here. The ones at Santiago Bay and Bakhaw beach are special mentions. But if you're in for more enjoyment, then you can go check out Lake Danao, the Bukilat Cave and try diving as well.
You can reach the Camotes Islands by taking a bus ride from Cebu City to Danao Port then going to Pacijan Island by boat. An alternate route is also possible from Ormoc, Leyte – there are boat rides there that will reach these islands in about an hour.
Bantayan Island
The island of Bantayan is found on the northwestern tip of Cebu. It is divided into three municipalities namely Bantayan, Madridejos and Santa Fe. Just like the Camotes Islands, the beaches in Bantayan are also one of the best in the country. But one thing that sets this island apart from popular destinations like the Boracay and Palawan are the number of tourists.
The island is not overcrowded, making it an ideal place for a getaway trip for some private time with family or loved ones. Santa Fe boasts great stretches of white sand beaches and historical landmarks like the St. Peter and Paul church in Bantayan. And getting to this place gives you access to a couple more “hidden paradises” as well.
You can get to Bantayan Island via bus ride from Cebu City to Hagnaya Port. From there, take a boat ride to Sta. Fe.
Virgin Island
This is one of the islands that you can travel into while you are in Bantayan. Virgin Island or Sillon Island is a tiny island more than a mile away from the shores of Bantayan. It is secluded and is lined up with white beaches to boot. What more could you ask for?
Kinatarkan/Guintacan
This is another island in the proximity of Bantayan and is accessible via boat from Sta. Fe too. It also sports white sand beaches and great aquatic resources, making it viable for swimming and diving.
Malapascua Island
This island is located on the northernmost tip of Cebu and can be accessed from Maya Port in Daanbantayan. The main attraction here, aside from the astounding beaches, are the thresher sharks found in Monad Shoal – tourists from all over the world flock here just to catch a glimpse of these creatures and swim with them as well.
Mactan Island
Of all the small islands around Cebu, Mactan Island is the most urbanized and also one of the main reasons why the tourism turnout is so high in the province. The reason for that, again, are its beaches. Mactan's natural beauty makes it one of the most traveled places in the country. Hotel resorts including the world-renowned Shangri-La line up the coast of the island, offering the tourists the best places to stay as they enjoy the natural wonders of Mactan.
Aside from the great beaches, the island is also full of history, like the ever so famous story for Lapu-lapu and his feat with the defense of Mactan against the Spaniards back in the 1500s. Finally, access to these island will give you the opportunity to travel to smaller islands as well. You can do some island hopping on Hilutungan Island which is famous for its diving spots and diverse aquatic ecosystem; Pandanon Island for more beaches; Nalusuan Island with its privately owned beaches and cottages; Caohagan Island for some good views with the fishes and Olango Island for some great bird sightseeing sessions.
Mactan island is very accessible through various methods. You can reach it via air not only from around the country but from a couple of places outside the Philippines as well. If you are from the mainland Cebu, all you need is to cross one of the two Mactan bridges to reach it.
These are some of the most popular islands in Cebu. Each of them have a very interesting story to tell and the government is slowly making efforts in promoting the tourism industry in these areas as well. As they continue promoting the tourism industry, we might just see more islands in the province getting promoted into tourism destinations as well.
Martin Wynn
