Bantayan Island Paradise: A Weekend Getaway from Cebu City

Island paradise!

That’s how I describe Bantayan Island, a stunning escape just off the coast of Cebu. This peaceful destination is perfect for a weekend getaway from the bustling streets of Cebu City. What makes it unforgettable? The fresh air, white sand beaches, delicious seafood, and the warm smiles of the locals.

Getting to Bantayan Island

The nearest airport is Mactan-Cebu International Airport. From Cebu City, you’ll need around 4 hours of travel time:

• Take a 3-hour bus ride from Cebu North Bus Terminal to Hagnaya Port in San Remigio.

• From there, it’s about an hour by ferry to Santa Fe Port, the main gateway to Bantayan Island.

Once you arrive, you're immediately greeted by the island’s pristine white sand beaches and calm turquoise waters — a welcome escape from city life.

Where to Stay and Swim in Bantayan

Alice Beach – Tranquil & Classy

Alice Beach, located on the eastern side of Santa Fe, offers clean, wide white sand shores. It’s home to some of the island’s mid-range to upscale resorts, such as:

• Anika Island Resort

• Santa Fe Beach Club

This is a great place to unwind in comfort, swim in calm waters, and catch the sunrise.

Sugar Beach – Romantic & Affordable

Facing south, Sugar Beach is known for its picturesque views and a natural sandbar that curves along the shoreline. It's especially famous for its sunrise and sunset scenes — truly Instagram-worthy and romantic!

Recommended stays include:

• Kota Beach Resort (famous for its appearance in the movie Camp Sawi)

• Mayet’s Resort (affordable and homey)

Getting Around Bantayan Island

Local transport is simple and charming:

• Pedicabs are readily available.

• Bike and motorbike rentals are common and cost-effective (ideal for exploring at your own pace).

It’s safe, scenic, and fun to travel like a local — even on foot or by bicycle.

More Than Beaches: Culture and History

Visit Saints Peter and Paul Church

Located in the town proper of Bantayan, just a short ride from Santa Fe, is the Saints Peter and Paul Parish, one of the oldest churches in the Philippines, dating back to the 1500s. It stands next to an equally historic town plaza, considered among the oldest in the country.

Food Finds: Cheap and Fresh Seafood

One of my favorite parts of the trip? The food!

Fresh seafood is abundant and very affordable. You can feast on grilled scallops, crabs, and shellfish at incredibly low prices. It’s a seafood lover’s dream — and it tastes even better by the beach.

Tip: Try the local barbecue stalls and seafood grills around Santa Fe for authentic island flavors.

Nightlife & Local Vibe

Santa Fe also has a lively yet laid-back nightlife scene. There are:

• Live music bars

• Beachfront restaurants

• Shops and small grocery stores

Despite being a small island, it has everything you need while keeping its cozy, small-town charm.

Final Thoughts: I’ll Be Back!

A weekend is definitely not enough to see all of Bantayan. I still have more to explore: island hopping, scuba diving, and nearby town adventures.

Whether you're looking to relax, reconnect with nature, or just eat amazing seafood, Bantayan Island should be on your Philippines travel bucket list. I’m already planning my return!