Exploring Malapascua Island on a Budget: A Complete Travel Itinerary
Looking for a budget-friendly island getaway that offers pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and an abundance of marine life? Look no further than Malapascua Island! Situated in the northern part of Cebu, this small island is quickly becoming a favorite destination for travelers looking for a unique and affordable holiday experience. In this article, we’re going to explore Malapascua Island on a budget, and provide you with a complete travel itinerary that will help you make the most of your time on this beautiful island.
Getting to Malapascua Island
The first step to exploring Malapascua Island is getting there. From Cebu City, take a bus or a taxi to Maya Port. From Maya Port, take a boat to Malapascua Island. The boat ride takes around 30 minutes and costs around PHP 100 per person. It’s important to note that the last boat leaves Maya Port for Malapascua Island at 5 pm, so plan your journey accordingly.
Accommodation on Malapascua Island
One of the biggest advantages of traveling to Malapascua Island is the availability of affordable accommodation options. There are several guesthouses and budget-friendly resorts on the island, with prices starting from as low as PHP 500 per night. If you’re traveling in a group, consider renting a private house or cottage for a more cozy and comfortable experience.
Activities on Malapascua Island
Malapascua Island is an excellent destination for water sports enthusiasts. The island is famous for its dive sites, including the Monad Shoal, where you can see thresher sharks up close. Dive packages start at around PHP 2,500 per person, but you can negotiate and get a better deal if you’re traveling in a group. Snorkeling is another great activity to enjoy on the island, with several spots offering a chance to see colorful corals and a variety of marine life. You can rent snorkeling equipment for around PHP 150 per day.
If you’re not a fan of water sports, you can still enjoy the island’s natural beauty by taking a long walk along the beach or hiking to the top of the island’s tallest point for stunning views of the surrounding area. You can also explore the island’s mangrove forests or take a boat tour around the island for a chance to see dolphins and other sea creatures.
Food and Drink on Malapascua Island
When it comes to food and drink, Malapascua Island has a lot to offer. There are several small restaurants and eateries on the island that serve a variety of local and international cuisines. Seafood lovers will be in heaven with the abundance of fresh fish and seafood available on the island. You can also find street food vendors scattered around the island, selling everything from grilled barbecue to sweet treats like buko pie and halo-halo.
Conclusion
Malapascua Island may be a small island, but it packs a big punch when it comes to beauty, affordability, and adventure. Whether you’re a solo traveler or traveling in a group, there are plenty of activities, attractions, and accommodation options to suit your needs and budget. Use this travel itinerary as a guide for exploring Malapascua Island on a budget, and discover for yourself why this island is quickly becoming one of the Philippines’ top travel destinations.
