Bacolod: Lakawon Island Day Trip with Floating Bar

Planning a trip to the Philippines and looking for a mix of stunning scenery, unique experiences, and hassle-free logistics? The Lakawon Island Day Trip from Bacolod offers all that and more — without breaking the bank. This tour combines the excitement of lounging on Asia’s biggest floating bar, enjoying white sandy beaches, and basking in the island’s tranquility, all in one seamless package.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? We love the access to the iconic floating bar Tawhai, the opportunity to unwind on pristine beaches, and the convenience of included transportation—an ideal setup for travelers wanting a hassle-free escape. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that meals at the resort are not included, so you should plan to budget for lunch. This experience suits travelers seeking a laid-back, scenic day with a touch of novelty, perfect for those new to the area or anyone craving a relaxing break from city life.

Good To Know

• All-Inclusive Comfort: Transportation, boat fees, and environmental charges are covered, making this a stress-free trip.
• Iconic Floating Bar: Relax on Tawhai, the largest floating bar in Asia, with cozy seating and stunning views.
• Beautiful Beaches: Enjoy Lakawon’s white sands and clear waters, ideal for lounging, swimming, or taking photos.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind.
• Cost-Effective Luxury: At $97, you get a full day of scenic beauty, unique experiences, and hassle-free logistics.
• Local Guides & Service: The trip includes a knowledgeable driver guide to enhance your experience.

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Exploring Lakawon Island: What to Expect

The idea of a day trip to Lakawon Island is to pack in as much relaxation and visual delight as possible. From Bacolod, you’ll be picked up by a local driver guide who will take you directly to the boat terminal — a convenient start that eliminates the typical headaches of independent planning. After a short boat ride, you’ll land on the island, where pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters await.

Getting There and Transportation

One of the biggest benefits of this tour is the hassle-free transportation. Your pickup and drop-off are included within Bacolod City, meaning no need to coordinate taxis or figure out public transit. The tour manages all boat fees, environmental charges, and terminal costs, offering a seamless experience so you can focus on enjoying the day.

The Floating Bar Tawhai

The centerpiece of this trip is the Tawhai, the largest floating bar in Asia. This floating structure is more than just a novelty; it’s a comfy haven with cozy seats and daybeds, perfect for lounging with a drink in hand and soaking up the sun. Guests often mention how relaxing it is to feel the island breeze while sitting on the floating bar, which provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding turquoise waters.

Guests have described Tawhai as a perfect spot to chill out, with some noting the “cozy seats and daybeds” as a major highlight. Many reviews highlight how the floating bar is a fantastic way to unwind, especially after a swim or water sports — which are available on the island if you’re feeling active.

Pristine Beaches and Water Activities

Beyond the floating bar, Lakawon’s white sandy beaches are a major draw. The waters are clear and inviting, making it easy to swim, snorkel, or simply wade in the shallows. Though the tour doesn’t specifically detail water sports, the island’s facilities are set up for a variety of water-based fun, giving you plenty of options to cool off and enjoy.

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Dining and Refreshments

While the tour fee covers boat, transport, and environmental fees, it does not include food and drinks at the resort’s restaurant. Guests often bring snacks or plan to purchase lunch on-site — the island’s restaurant offers meals at own expense. Reviews recommend trying the local dishes and enjoying the delicious tapas and local flavors available, which add to the overall relaxing vibe.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The package includes:

• Transportation from Bacolod City
• Pick-up and drop-off
• Local driver guide
• Terminal and environmental fees
• Bottled water during the tour
• Boat fees, cottage, and floating bar access

However, meals and additional drinks are not included, so consider bringing some snacks or a few extra drinks if you’re planning to stay for a while.

The Experience in Detail

The experience begins with a comfortable pickup in Bacolod, where a friendly driver guides you to the boat terminal. The journey across the waters takes about 15-20 minutes, offering glimpses of island life and the chance to admire the ocean vistas. Many travelers appreciate how the logistics are handled smoothly, making it easier to relax without worries about directions or extra costs.

Once on the island, you’ll be greeted by the sight of powdery white beaches and crystal-clear waters, instantly inviting for a swim or a lazy walk. The floating bar Tawhai offers a unique floating lounge experience, with plenty of seating options, from sunbeds to shaded areas. The fact that it’s the biggest floating bar in Asia adds a fun, Instagram-worthy element to the day.

Guests mention how the calm waters and gentle breeze make it an ideal spot for lounging, especially with a cold drink in hand. The cozy seats and daybeds encourage you to unwind and soak in the scenery. Many also rave about the delicious tapas and snacks available at the resort’s restaurant, which complement a lazy day perfectly.

Water sports facilities are available, according to the tour description, giving active travelers a chance to splash around or snorkel. However, specific water activity equipment isn’t detailed, so it might be worth asking your guide about options if you’re seeking more adventure.

Authentic and Practical Tips

• Bring swimwear, towel, and sunscreen for comfort and protection.
• A camera or smartphone is essential for capturing the stunning scenery.
• Pack some snacks if you prefer not to buy food at the resort, though the on-site menu offers tasty options.
• Alcohol and drugs are not permitted on the island, maintaining a family-friendly atmosphere.
• The trip is not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments, due to the nature of the boat transfer and island terrain.

Timing and Duration

The entire tour typically lasts around 6 hours, starting with pickup in Bacolod in the morning. This allows plenty of time to enjoy the floating bar, relax on the beaches, and have a leisurely lunch. The return trip in the late afternoon means you won’t feel rushed, and you’ll get a full day of island bliss.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Lakawon Island day trip is perfect for travelers who want a quick but memorable escape to a scenic island with unique features like the floating bar. It offers a balance of relaxation, scenic beauty, and a bit of fun — ideal for first-timers in the Philippines or those looking to add a standout experience to their itinerary.

If you’re traveling with family, friends, or a partner and prefer a hassle-free day with all logistics taken care of, this tour ticks all the boxes. However, it’s less suitable for people with mobility issues or those seeking a full day of water sports, as the focus is more on lounging and enjoying the scenery.

The Sum Up

The Bacolod: Lakawon Island Day Trip with Floating Bar offers a well-rounded, value-packed experience that combines iconic sights with relaxed luxury. For $97, you get the convenience of private transport, access to Asia’s largest floating bar, and the chance to unwind on some of the Philippines’ most beautiful beaches. The inclusion of a local driver guide and all fees (except meals) makes the day feel simple and enjoyable.

It’s especially suited for travelers who want a stress-free, scenic getaway without the fuss of organizing transport or boat fees. Whether you’re after stunning views, a quirky floating bar experience, or just a peaceful day by the sea, this tour delivers on all fronts — with the added bonus of flexibility and authentic local charm.

If you love the idea of lounging on a floating bar, soaking up sunshine, and enjoying delicious local snacks, then this trip will be a highlight of your Bacolod stay. Just remember to bring your sunscreen, camera, and an appetite for relaxing in paradise.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes transportation to and from Bacolod City, along with boat fees and environmental charges, ensuring a stress-free trip.

What should I bring?
Pack swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a camera, snacks, and extra money for food and drinks at the resort.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?
The tour price does not include food and drinks at the restaurant, so you’ll need to purchase those separately if you want a full meal.

Is the floating bar accessible for everyone?
The floating bar offers cozy seats and daybeds, but the tour isn’t suitable for travelers with mobility impairments due to boat and island terrain.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience typically lasts about 6 hours, including pickup, travel, and free time on the island.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

This Lakawon Island trip truly balances fun with relaxation, making it a fantastic choice for anyone visiting Bacolod who wants to experience a slice of paradise without fuss.

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