9 Cool Reasons to Visit Malapascua Island
So you’ve heard a lot of good things about the island of Malapascua. You’ve seen the photos on Facebook and you’ve read what visitors (both foreign and local) had to say about it. If you’re still on the fence about actually packing your bag, getting on that bus, and taking that boat, here’s a little list that would (definitely) help you make up your mind.
1. North Cebu is Picturesque
Don’t worry about the four-hour bus ride to the northern tip of the island. The amazing sights you see along the way (sugarcane fields, corniches and coastal roads, amazing heritage structures) are guaranteed to keep you up and wide-eyed!
2. The Boat Ride is Quick and Easy
Photo from MyCebuPhotoBlog
The boat ride from mainland Cebu to the island of Malapascua is quick and easy. When you reach the Maya Wharf in Daanbantayan, simply get on a boat (there’s plenty, don’t worry) and in twenty minutes you’ll be in Malapascua.
3. The Locals are Friendly
Photo from MyCebuPhotoBlog
Worried about how locals treat tourists? Don’t worry, the locals of Malapascua Island are super friendly. And the island is pretty small. There’s a big chance that you’ll bump into the same people more than once. So, don’t be afraid to smile or smile back.
4. Tourism is Booming
Photo from MyCebuPhotoBlog
Tourists are everywhere in Malapascua. And why not? The island is considered one of the best tourist spots in Cebu. As soon as you arrive, there’s a big chance that you’ll see a tourist scuba diving or enjoying a nice massage at the beach. You might even see a couple enjoying the local barbecue and puso at a road-side bbq stand.
5. Accommodation is Easy to Find
Photo from MyCebuPhotoBlog
Don’t worry about accommodation in Malapascua. There’s plenty to choose from. In fact, Malapascua has several cheap beach resorts that you can definitely check out. You can also find high-end accommodations and even transient homes for weekenders. If you’re lucky, you can even find a room (with bathroom, a queen-sized bed, and a stand fan) for less than 500 pesos.
6. The Water is Breathtakingly Gorgeous
Photo from MyCebuPhotoBlog
I’ll let the photos do the talking.
7. Malapascua is a Diving (and Cliff Jumping) Heaven
If you’re into diving or swimming in general, the island of Malapascua is perfect for you. There are at least 4 known dive spots around the island that offer unique diving experiences. You can go cave diving in Gato or wall diving in Calangaman. You may also explore the wreckage of Dona Marilyn or swim with the Thresher Sharks at the Monad Shoal. And if cliff jumping is your thing, the island of Malapascua will also never disappoint.
Photo from MyCebuPhotoBlog
Photo from MyCebuPhotoBlog
Photo from MyCebuPhotoBlog
8. The Beach is Glorious
Want a fun, quiet, and relaxing day at the beach? The beaches of Malapascua are peaceful and perfect for soul-searching and meditation. In fact, the beaches of Malapascua are some of the best beaches in Cebu. If you’re into yoga and other health regimen, you’d love the beach in the early morning. But if you’re a huge sun-worshiper, there’s plenty of space to lay out a beach towel and have that much-needed tan.
9. There’s Plenty of Fresh Bounty from the Sea
A big fan of seafood? There’s plenty to be had in Malapascua. After all, the island, first and foremost, is a fishing community. If you’re lucky, you might even get a really good deal on some really fresh catch. Can’t cook? Don’t worry! Some locals can cook them for you for a fee. 🙂
Have I convinced you yet? Plan a trip to Malapascua today!
We would love to go diving and see the thresher sharks and rays there.
But there are other reasons to visit this pristine island in the Philippines. First of all, I always love being on small, tropical islands. I guess it gives me this feeling of being away from it all. I prefer islands with little infrastructure, not to crowded, with a nice beach and clear, warm water ocean water offering a way to cool down from the heat.