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

Bantayan Island, a gem in the Visayas region of the Philippines, offers stunning beaches, tranquil villages, and lush landscapes. This private tour promises a comprehensive experience, blending land excursions with a boat trip to nearby islands—all in a single day. We’ve gathered insights from travelers who’ve taken this trip to give you a balanced, detailed look at what to expect.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its combination of cultural sights, natural beauty, and relaxation opportunities, all seamlessly organized with a knowledgeable tour coordinator. The inclusion of a delicious, complimentary Filipino lunch adds value, especially given the long day of exploration.

However, it’s worth considering that the full itinerary, including the boat rides and multiple stops, requires a good amount of time on your feet and in transit. If you prefer slower-paced, less packed days, this tour might feel a bit rushed. It’s best suited for those eager to see a variety of attractions in just one day.

This experience is perfect for travelers wanting a structured, yet authentic glimpse of Bantayan’s highlights—ideal for first-time visitors or those short on time but craving a rundown.

Good To Know

• Full-Day Adventure: Combines land exploration and island-hopping in one well-organized trip.
• Authentic Sites: Features top attractions like Kota Beach, Ogtong Cave, and mangrove gardens.
• Beach and Snorkeling: Offers relaxing beach stops and opportunities to swim in crystal waters.
• Inclusive Value: Lunch, entrance fees, guide, and transfers included in the price.
• Flexible & Private: Designed for private groups with hotel pickup in Santa Fe.
• Consideration: The day can be quite full — be prepared for a busy schedule.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at Bantayan Island’s Land & Virgin Island Tour

Starting Off in Santa Fe: Convenience and Comfort

The tour kicks off with hotel pickups in Santa Fe, a major hub for visitors on Bantayan Island. At around 8:00 AM, a friendly driver arrives, holding a sign with your name, making the start smooth and stress-free. We appreciate that the tour is private, so you won’t be stuck in a large group, allowing for personalized attention and a flexible pace.

The transport is comfortable, and the journey to the first stops sets a relaxed tone for the day ahead. It’s ideal for travelers who value convenience and want to avoid the hassle of figuring out transportation options on their own.

Omagieca Mangrove Garden: A Step Into Nature

Your first stop is the Omagieca Mangrove Garden, where you’ll spend about 30 minutes. This guided visit offers a chance to see the lush mangrove forests that protect the island’s coastlines. Many reviews highlight how special it is to see the vibrant greenery and learn about how locals are actively conserving these vital ecosystems.

This stop is both scenic and educational—perfect for those interested in environmental efforts or just wanting some cool photos of nature’s artwork. Reviewers often mention the peaceful atmosphere, which contrasts beautifully with the busier beach stops later.

Kota Beach: A Film-Set Favorite & Scenic Sandbar

Next, you’ll visit Kota Beach, known for its stunning white sands and the famous location for the Filipino movie Camp Sawi. Travelers love the chance to step onto this soft, inviting sand and snap photos of the iconic sandbar. Spending about 30 minutes here, you can dip your toes in the water or just enjoy the views.

While some find the stop brief, others appreciate the chance to relax on a beach that’s less crowded than other tourist spots. It’s an excellent location for photos, and the shallow waters make it kid-friendly, too. The sandbar’s beauty is a highlight, often described as postcard-perfect.

More Great Tours Nearby

Ogtong Cave Resort: A Refreshing Dip

The Ogtong Cave, a private cave within a resort, is the next stop. Here, you’ll spend around 1.5 hours enjoying the clear waters of the cave’s pool. Many reviews mention the cool blue waters as a refreshing break, especially on warm days.

The cave features a small pool fed by natural springs, and visitors appreciate the tranquil setting. It’s a fun spot for swimming and snapping photos inside the cave’s dark, mysterious entrance. The resort’s well-maintained facilities and the scenic setting make it a standout attraction.

Virgin Island: Beach Bliss & Snorkeling

One of the tour’s crowning moments is the boat trip to Virgin Island. This stop, lasting about 1.5 hours, is all about relaxing on powdery white sands and exploring the vibrant underwater world. Reviewers frequently mention how the waters are perfect for snorkeling, with colorful fish and coral just beneath the surface.

You’ll love how uncrowded and pristine Virgin Island feels—an ideal escape for sunbathing or taking underwater photos. The island’s postcard-perfect scenery makes it a favorite for travelers craving a quiet beach paradise.

Baigad Lagoon Beach: Local Life & Picturesque Views

The final island stop is Baigad Lagoon Beach, where you’ll spend about an hour. This spot offers a peaceful setting for photos and a glimpse into local fishing life. Some reviews note the small fishing village nearby, giving visitors a taste of everyday Bantayan life.

It’s a gentle way to end the island-hopping part of the tour, with relaxed lounging on the sand and viewing the scenic surroundings. It provides a nice balance of natural beauty and cultural insight.

Return & Reflection

After a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and island-hopping, your driver will take you back to your hotel in Santa Fe. The drive gives you a chance to unwind and reflect on a busy, fulfilling day.

The Food & Value

A standout feature of this tour is the complimentary Filipino lunch, featuring grilled pork belly, fish, shrimp, crab, rice, bottled water, and soda. Many reviews underscore the quality and generous portions, which add excellent value to the $127 price tag. With all entrance fees and a knowledgeable guide included, the tour offers a comprehensive package.

Having everything arranged—transfers, guide, lunch, and boat rides—means you won’t need to worry about extra costs or logistics. Travelers often find this all-inclusive approach makes the experience smooth and worthwhile, especially when balancing a busy itinerary.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

The tour runs for about 7 hours, starting with hotel pickup at 8:00 AM. It’s a private experience, so your group gets personalized attention. The schedule is tight but well-paced, with enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling overly rushed.

Bring essentials like sunscreen, swimwear, water, and a camera to capture the moments. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or those with back problems, given the physical activity and boat rides involved.

Cultural and Environmental Insights

Many travelers appreciate the chance to see local sites like the mangrove garden and fishing villages, adding depth to the trip. The visit to Ogtong Cave provides a scenic and somewhat mystical experience, while Virgin Island’s snorkeling opportunities offer a peek into Bantayan’s vibrant marine life.

How to Make the Most of It

To maximize your experience, arriving a day early on Bantayan Island is recommended. The journey from Cebu involves a 3-hour drive plus an hour ferry, so planning for this helps avoid rushing on the day of the tour. Providing the driver with your pick-up details in Cebu City allows a smooth transfer to Bantayan.

Who Would Love This Tour?

Ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, relaxing at beaches, and cultural insights, all in a single day. It’s perfect for those on a short timeframe but eager to see the highlights without the hassle of arranging separate activities. The private nature and inclusive features make it especially attractive for families, couples, or small groups.

The Sum Up

This Bantayan Island Land and Virgin Island tour offers a memorable way to experience the island’s best highlights without the stress of planning each detail. The combination of scenic stops, cultural sights, and beach relaxation makes it a well-rounded choice for first-time visitors or those seeking a comprehensive day trip.

The value for money is clear, with lunch and all entrance fees included, and the private setup means you’ll enjoy a tailored experience. If you’re after stunning views, a mix of adventure and downtime, and a hassle-free day on Bantayan, this tour checks many boxes.

While the schedule is packed, the variety and authenticity of the stops make it worthwhile. Just remember to wear comfy shoes, bring your snorkeling gear, and prepare for a day filled with natural beauty and local charm.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s generally suitable for most age groups, but it’s not recommended for pregnant women or those with back problems due to boat rides and walking involved.

What is included in the price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off in Santa Fe, all entrance fees, a guided land tour, boat transfers to nearby islands, and a complimentary Filipino lunch.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, with starting times checked upon booking.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
While not explicitly stated, bringing your own mask and snorkel is recommended if you prefer personalized equipment, as the waters around Virgin Island are ideal for snorkeling.

Is the lunch vegetarian-friendly?
No, the included lunch features seafood, grilled pork, and crab, so vegetarians might need to bring extra snacks or inquire about alternative options.

Can I customize the stops?
This is a pre-arranged private tour, so it’s best to discuss any preferences or special requests beforehand with your guide.

What should I wear for the tour?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, sun protection like sunscreen, and a hat are recommended.

Is there free cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there any hidden costs?
All major costs—entrance fees, lunch, transfers—are included. Additional meals or souvenirs are not covered.

How do I prepare for the boat ride?
Wear a life jacket if provided and hold on tight—it’s a short, enjoyable trip to Virgin Island. A towel and change of clothes are handy for after swimming.

This tour offers a genuine glimpse into Bantayan’s natural beauty and local culture, all wrapped into one well-organized day. Perfect for those eager to see the highlights without the hassle, it balances relaxation with adventure in an authentic setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby