The Ultimate Bantayan Island Itinerary

Hidden in the northern part of Cebu, Bantayan Island is a patch of paradise offering pristine beaches, laid-back vibes and an authentic Philippine island experience. This comprehensive guide will help you plan the ultimate Bantayan Island itinerary, whether a 2-day getaway from Cebu or a 3-day tropical adventure!

Table of Contents

How to Get to Bantayan Island

From The Airport

If you’re arriving in Cebu via Mactan-Cebu International Airport, follow these steps:

Take a taxi or grab to North Bus Terminal in Cebu City
Board a bus or van to Hagnaya Port (approximately 3-4 hours)
Take a ferry from Hagnaya Port to Santa Fe Port on Bantayan Island (around 1 hour)

Total travel time: 4-5 hours Estimated cost: ₱300-500 for bus, ₱250 for ferry

From The South (Moalboal)

Take a bus or van from Moalboal to Cebu City
From Cebu City, follow the same route to Hagnaya Port
Take the ferry to Santa Fe Port

Places to Visit on Bantayan Island

Bantayan has some epic tourist spots! from pristine beaches to gorgeous architecture and secluded islands, there is much to explore. Below are our favourite 6 spots featured in the Bantayan Island Itinerary, but if you are looking for more activities, make sure to read our guide on the top things to do in Bantayan.

Bantayan Island Itinerary: 3 Days 2 Nights

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Morning: Arrive and check in to the resort

It is best to base yourself in Santa Fe, as this will allow easy access to the most popular restaurants, beaches and tourist activities.

Afternoon: Explore Santa Fe Beach

Discover this pristine stretch of fluffy white sand and crystal-clear waters, the perfect spot to unwind. Whether you relax with a drink in hand or take a refreshing afternoon dip, it’s the ideal way to recharge after the arduous journey from the city.

Evening: Local dinner at MJ Square

The island boasts plenty of dining options, but MJ Square stands out as the ultimate food hub. With a variety of choices, from the freshest scallops to mouthwatering burgers, MJ Square offers something to satisfy every craving—making it the perfect spot for the whole family!

Night: Beach Relaxation

Head to one of the island’s beaches during the evening. Wheter you choose to catch the breathtakingly beautiful sunsets on the west side of the island or share beers with some friends on the sandy shores of Santa Fe, this is the perfect way to end the day.

Day 2: Island Adventures

Morning: Virgin Island day trip

Start your day with a visit to Virgin Island, one of Bantayan’s most stunning destinations. This idyllic paradise blends boho vibes with untouched natural beauty. Take a dip in its crystal-clear waters or, if you’re feeling adventurous, head to the island’s cliff-jumping spot for an adrenaline rush. For a memorable experience, bring fresh fish to grill and enjoy a beach picnic.

Afternoon: Baigad Lagoon Beach

Spend your afternoon at Baigad Lagoon Beach, one of Bantayan’s best-kept secrets. This tranquil gem is less crowded due to its remote location, offering the perfect escape for relaxation. With hammocks and picnic tables available, it’s an ideal spot to unwind and soak up the peaceful vibes—an essential stop on your Bantayan Island itinerary.

Evening: Sunset at Sugar Beach

Hop on a scooter or utilise public transport to reach Sunset Beach, a serene beach on the island’s northwest coast. End your day with the ultimate island experience—watching a breathtaking beachfront sunset, a must for any trip to the Philippines!

Night: Local seafood dinner

Known for some of the best seafood in the Philippines—especially the scallops—this island is a haven for seafood lovers. Don’t miss the chance to feast on fresh fish.

Day 3: Local Culture and Departure

Morning: Ogtong Cave visit

Another must-visit on your Bantayan Island itinerary is Ogtong Cave, a stunning cave pool found within a resort. You can make the most of your visit by enjoying the resort’s pool while exploring the cave. Entry to the cave is just ₱150, while access to both the pool and cave is ₱225 for adults and ₱120 for kids. It’s the perfect spot for a fun and refreshing morning!

Late morning: Explore Bantayan Town

Before leaving, it is worth exploring Bantayan town, soaking in the local town vibes, doing a little souvenir shopping and seeing the incredible artwork inside Peter the Apostle Parish.

Afternoon: Departure

Bantayan Island Itinerary: 2 Days 1 Night

If you can only travel on the weekend or perhaps only have 1 night in this island paradise, here is a suggested itinerary to make the most of your time.

Day 1: Highlights

Morning: Arrive and check in
Afternoon: Virgin Island trip
Evening: Local Dinner & Drinks at MJ Square
Night: Beach Relaxation

Day 2: Quick Exploration

Morning: Ogtong Cave & The Ruins Cliff Jumping
Late morning: Town Exploration
Afternoon: Departure

Bantayan Island Travel Tips

Best time to visit: December to May (dry season)
Bring: Sunscreen, swimwear, light clothing
Budget: ₱2,000-₱5,000 per person for 2-3 days
Language: Cebuano and English widely spoken
Currency: Philippine Peso (cash recommended)
Customise this Bantayan Island Itinerary to your liking! Not everybody likes doing the same activities.

Why not include Bantayan on a North Cebu road trip? We’ve compiled all the best north Cebu tourist spots and region itinerary to help you have an unforgettable trip in Cebu!

Thank you for reading our blog!

We are Em & Yul – An English & Filipino Travel Couple. Now based in Cebu, we frequently explore the best destinations, hidden gems and cultural attractions across the Philippines.

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