Malapascua Island - Discovering Philippines

Travelling to Malapascua Island

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Malapascua Island, a pretty good destination in Philippines (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Malapascua Island and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Malapascua Island, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Philippines, here's everything to know about Malapascua Island for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Malapascua Island

Malapascua Island is a small island located in the northernmost region of Cebu province in the Philippines. It is known for its stunning white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts. The island is particularly famous for its diving spots, particularly for thresher sharks. Other popular activities include snorkeling, island hopping, and beach camping. Malapascua Island is also home to a small fishing village, where visitors can learn about the local culture and enjoy fresh seafood. The island can be reached by boat from the Cebu mainland, and there are several accommodation options available for visitors.

What to visit in Malapascua Island

1. Tresher Shark Diving - Malapascua Island is one of the few places in the world where divers can witness the rare sight of thresher sharks. These sharks are known for their large eyes and long tail, and can be seen at Monad Shoal. 2. Kalanggaman Island - A beautiful island oasis just off the coast of Malapascua Island, Kalanggaman is known for its crystal-clear waters, stunning white sand beaches, and amazing marine life. 3. Bounty Beach - This is the main beach of Malapascua Island and is one of the most popular spots for tourists. It's a great place to relax and soak up the sun, but it can get crowded during peak season. 4. Gato Island - This small island is a popular spot for diving and snorkeling, with a variety of marine life to see, including sea snakes and colorful fish. It's also known for its underwater cave system. 5. Lighthouse - The lighthouse of Malapascua Island provides a beautiful panoramic view of the island and its surroundings. It's a great spot for taking photos and watching the sunrise or sunset. 6. Omagieca Mangrove Garden - This is a great spot for nature lovers to stroll or kayak through a beautiful mangrove forest. It's also a prime location for birdwatching. 7. Spanish Fortress - Located on the western side of the island, this fortress provides a glimpse of the island's colonial history under Spanish rule. It dates back to the 19th century and has been beautifully restored.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Philippines, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Malapascua Island

The best time to visit Malapascua Island is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. During this time, the weather is generally sunny and dry, with fewer chances of rain and storms. The sea is also calmer, allowing for better visibility when diving or snorkeling. However, it's important to keep in mind that Malapascua Island is a popular tourist destination, and prices may be higher during peak periods such as Christmas, New Year, and Easter.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Malapascua Island

To get to Malapascua Island in the Philippines, you can follow these steps: 1. Fly to Cebu City - The nearest airport to Malapascua Island is Mactan-Cebu International Airport, which is located in Cebu City.
2. Go to Maya Port - From Cebu City, you can take a bus or a private car to Maya Port. The journey takes about 3-4 hours.
3. Take a boat to Malapascua Island - At Maya Port, you can take a public ferry or hire a private boat to Malapascua Island. The boat ride takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Note: It's important to note that the public ferry to Malapascua Island has limited schedules and may not operate during bad weather conditions. So, it's advisable to plan your trip accordingly and confirm the schedules beforehand.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Malapascua Island, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Malapascua Island

Certainly! Here are some of the typical foods of Malapascua Island, Philippines, and their descriptions: 1. Kinilaw - a type of ceviche made with raw fish marinated in vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, red onions, and chili peppers.
2. Lechon - a roasted pig dish that is a staple at many Filipino celebrations. The skin is typically crispy, and the meat is moist and flavorful.
3. Adobo - a hearty stew made with meat or seafood that is marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and other spices. It is often served with rice.
4. Sinigang - a sour soup made with tamarind broth, vegetables, and meat or seafood. This dish is perfect for the hot and humid weather of the Philippines.
5. Pansit - a noodle dish made with thin, long noodles stir-fried with vegetables, meat, and soy sauce. This is a popular dish during birthdays and special occasions.
6. Grilled seafood - fresh seafood such as fish, squid, and shrimp are grilled over charcoal and served with rice and dipping sauce.
7. Halo-halo - a dessert made with shaved ice, milk, sweet beans, fruits, and other sweet toppings. It's perfect for cooling down on a hot day. Hope this helps!
You can find general info about typical foods in Philippines here.

Is Malapascua Island an expensive destination for tourists?

Malapascua Island is generally considered a slightly more expensive destination compared to other destinations in the Philippines. The island's remote location and limited resources can add to the cost of goods and services. However, it is still possible to find budget-friendly options for accommodation, food, and activities. It's recommended to research and compare prices beforehand to ensure a more budget-friendly trip.

Where to find accomodation in Malapascua Island

When visiting Malapascua Island in the Philippines, it is best to find accommodation in the southern part of the island, particularly near Bounty Beach, as this is where the majority of the resorts, guesthouses, bars, and restaurants are located. Another good option is to check for accommodations in Logon Beach, which is located on the northern side of the island. Although there are fewer options than in Bounty Beach, Logon Beach boasts stunning views and is considered a quieter area. Both of these locations provide easy access to the island's famous dive sites, like Monad Shoal and Gato Island.
You can check hotel prices at Malapascua Island here:
Booking.com

Is Malapascua Island a safe destination for tourists?

Malapascua Island is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, like any destination, it is important to take precautionary measures to ensure your safety while on the island. Here are some tips to keep in mind: - Keep your valuable belongings, such as passports and cash, in a safe place.
- Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone in isolated areas at night.
- Use a reputable tour guide or dive center when participating in water activities.
- Familiarize yourself with the local customs and laws to ensure you don't inadvertently offend or break any rules.
By following these tips and using common sense, you should have a safe and enjoyable trip to Malapascua Island.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Philippines here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Malapascua Island.

What type of travelers will enjoy Malapascua Island the most?

Malapascua Island in the Philippines has something for everyone. It's a small island, and its secluded beaches are perfect for couples who want to enjoy a romantic getaway. The island is also suitable for young people looking for fun and adventure, as there are various water sports, diving, and snorkeling activities to indulge in.
For families, Malapascua Island's serene environment is excellent for relaxation and family time. The island is also family-friendly, and there are several resorts that cater to families with children, providing activities and amenities that ensure a comfortable stay. Additionally, families can go on island hopping trips during the day, where they can explore nearby islets or go on a snorkeling adventure. Overall, Malapascua Island provides a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and fun for couples, young people, and families alike.

How to get around Malapascua Island

The most common mode of transportation in Malapascua Island is walking. The island is relatively small and can be easily explored on foot. However, if you need to cover larger distances, you can hire a motorcycle taxi or rent a bicycle. The island does not have any cars or paved roads.

What to see around Malapascua Island

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Malapascua Island: 1. Kalanggaman Island - Known for its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and rich marine life, Kalanggaman Island is a popular day trip destination from Malapascua Island.
2. Gato Island - A popular spot for snorkeling and diving, Gato Island is home to a variety of marine life including hammerhead sharks, sea turtles, and lionfish.
3. Carnaza Island - A beautiful island that is perfect for island hopping, swimming, and sunbathing.
4. Bantayan Island - Known for its picture-perfect beaches, Bantayan Island is a great place to relax, swim, and enjoy amazing views of the ocean.
5. Tingko Beach - Located in Alcoy, Cebu, Tingko Beach is a picturesque beach with clear waters and clean white sand. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the sun.
6. Osmeña Peak - The highest peak in Cebu, Osmeña Peak offers stunning views of the sea and surrounding islands. It's a popular spot for hiking and trekking.
7. Malapascua Lighthouse - The Malapascua Lighthouse is a great place to watch the sunset and enjoy panoramic views of the island.
For every travel information about Philippines you can click here.

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